Akadot: Since the release schedule is on a weekly basis, how far ahead is the work done for Raijin?

SH: We work far ahead just to keep ahead of schedule. It is very important in America to stay ahead of schedule as in any other country. We are running a weekly magazine, so there is no room for error. Our reputation rests on being able to deliver a weekly magazine. Our sister company, Coamix, is handling most of the production. They live and breathe weekly manga and have years and years of experience. So we have their experience on our side and we are working ahead to be ready for any situations that may arise.

Akadot: What are your expectations concerning sales and fan reactions?

SH: I think Raijin will be received with a lot of enthusiasm, but also with a lot of curiosity. Fans may ask "What is this magazine about?" "Can they do a weekly magazine?" "What will it be like in America?" Most otaku know that this is the format for manga. Beginning with weekly installments and then collected later. Fans will be curious for the first time ever to experience manga in a weekly form. We've seen a lot of enthusiasm from fans at Anime Expo concerning Slam Dunk, Fist of the Blue Sky, and they are very anxious to see what it will be like.

Akadot: What are your favorite out of the titles in Raijin?

SH: I would hesitate to pick just one favorite, although I am excited to follow First President of Japan. I think it is a really interesting story. Obviously the writer has some background and knows what he is talking about.

Akadot: Is there any similarities to Eagle published by Viz?

SH: I think the similarities can be drawn to Eagle, especially in America since there is only one political manga. The connection is natural, but there are different artists, writers, and storyline plots. I think both titles work well to examine the differences between Japan and America politically.

Akadot: Which titles do you think received the best reaction so far or will be the headliner for Raijin?

SH: I hesitate to say what will be a headliner for Raijin, but obviously there is a lot of excitement over Slam Dunk. It is a hundred million copy-seller worldwide and it has sold extremely well. It has become a cult favorite in every country that manga has been established, except America. It seems like a natural fit in American culture because Americans love basketball and teen dramas.

Akadot: The market has already been introduced to Vagabond, so readers are already use to the art style.

SH: Exactly. Vagabond is amazing and such a critical hit, so his profile is really being raised in America deservingly so. I think there has been a lot of excitement over Slam Dunk and I wouldn't be surprised if that became our headliner.

Akadot: Are there any plans to release English collected editions of the feature titles?

SH: Absolutely. They will be in graphic novel format. Just as we take our cue from the Japanese with our weekly magazines, we will take our cue in terms of collections and feature the stories in graphic novel editions.

Want to read more?! Then check out Part II of our exclusive interview with Raijin's consulting editor Sam Humphries!