Kodansha is preparing the debut of the North American edition of Young Magazine , featuring 19 new series that explore dark and complex themes in the sci-fi, horror, and cyberpunk genres. Known for publishing iconic works such as AKIRA , Ghost in the Shell , and Initial D , the magazine promises to maintain the essence that made it famous in Japan.
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In an interview, editor-in-chief Hidemi Shiraki summarizes Young Magazine's spirit in three pillars: raw emotion, social defiance, and gender transgression. The selection for the US audience was designed to preserve this identity without softening.
Three words that define the American edition
Raw – Stories that expose true feelings, social discomforts, and human frailties.
Defiant – Stories about characters facing obstacles, whether against society, family, or themselves.
Expansive – From dark fantasies to scientific dystopias, with a wide range of themes and social contexts.
Among the highlights, Shiraki cites GOUMA: The Blade that Slaughters Gods , a visually stunning dark fantasy of samurai versus monsters, and the sequel to Boys Run the Riot , which addresses gender identity in a realistic and emotional way.
Unfiltered content
The issue doesn't shy away from topics like sex, death, violence, loneliness, and discrimination. Titles like Boys Run the Riot – In Transition , The Knight of Blasphemy , and Protocol Ryugu exemplify this direct approach, with themes that intrigue the reader even when uncomfortable.
Shiraki states that the authors created all the works with the North American market in mind, maintaining authenticity and adjusting only cultural nuances in the translation.
Future of the magazine in the USA
The success of this debut could pave the way for continued releases, digital editions, and collaborations with local artists. However, Shiraki says he seeks creators who tell their own stories in a genuine way, without the obligation to follow the "Japanese style."
However, the premiere issue will be available for free at Anime NYC between August 21st and 24th, and at Kinokuniya until November 10th, while supplies last.
Finally, fan voting to choose which series will continue begins on August 21st, with results in December.
Source: Anime Corner / X (twitter)
