A biographical manga detailing the life and career of legendary game creator Masahiro Sakurai, known for his work on the Kirby and Super Smash Bros. franchises, is set to be released in Japan next month. Titled “Masahiro Sakurai: Making the World More Fun with Games” (a rough translation), the 160-page book promises to offer behind-the-scenes insights into the creation of his iconic games.
The manga, which Sakurai himself supervised, will launch on November 18 in Japan, retailing for ¥1,430 (approximately $9.45 USD). While there are currently no announced plans for an English translation or international release, the manga is already available for pre-order through Japanese retailers like Amazon Japan and Rakuten Books.
Delving into Sakurai’s Creative Journey
This new biographical work is part of the “Manga de Shiru Hito to Shigoto” (“Learn About People and Jobs Through Manga”) series from publisher East Press. It aims to trace Sakurai’s path from his early encounters with games as a child to his status as a world-renowned game creator. The book is divided into six main chapters that highlight significant milestones in his life and career, offering readers a unique perspective on his creative process and professional journey.
Key Chapters in the Manga
The six chapters outline a chronological and thematic exploration of Sakurai’s impact on the gaming world:
- Young Sakurai and Games: This chapter will explore his formative years and his initial passion for video games.
- The Birth of Kirby: Readers will learn about the origins and development of the beloved pink puffball, Kirby.
- The Beginning of Super Smash Bros: This section will delve into the inception of the groundbreaking crossover fighting series, Super Smash Bros.
- The Founding of Sora, Inc.: The manga will cover the establishment of his own development studio, Sora Ltd.
- The Legacy: This chapter will likely examine the enduring influence of his work on the video game industry.
- A Beacon for the Future: The final chapter will look towards Sakurai’s continued impact and future endeavors.
In addition to the manga narrative, the book will feature supplementary content, including a timeline of Sakurai’s career and an article discussing the various roles involved in video game development. Sakurai himself has also contributed a special afterword to the book.
Masahiro Sakurai’s Enduring Influence
Masahiro Sakurai is celebrated as one of the most influential figures in the video game industry. Beyond creating Kirby and Super Smash Bros., he is also known for directing games like Meteos and Kid Icarus: Uprising. His work often features streamlined yet deep gameplay, earning him a dedicated following. Sakurai also maintains a popular YouTube channel, “Masahiro Sakurai on Creating Games,” where he shares his extensive knowledge and insights into game design.
The upcoming manga offers fans a new medium through which to appreciate the journey and creative genius of a developer who has profoundly shaped the landscape of modern gaming.
