Accel World Review

In 2046, people can access a virtual network known as the Neurolinker via their cellphone terminals. A perpetual victim of bullying, middle school student Haruyuki spends his time absorbed in games in a corner of his local network. One day he is approached by the most famous girl in his school, Kuroyukihime (Black Snow Princess). She gives him a strange program called Brain Burst that has the power to "accelerate the world."

Deadman Wonderland Manga Returns To North America

Volume 1, featuring story and artwork by Jinsei Kataoka and Kazuma Kondou, is rated ‘T+’ for Older Teens and will carry a print MSRP of $9.99 U.S. / $12.99 CAN. A digital version will also launch for $6.99 (USD/CAN) on February 11th on VIZManga.com and through the VIZ MANGA App for the Apple iPad®, iPhone® and iPod® touch, Android-powered smart phones, as well as through the Nook, Kobo, Kindle, iBooks and GooglePlay stores. VIZ Media will publish Volume 2 of DEADMAN WONDERLAND in April with additional editions of the 13-volume series scheduled to be released bi-monthly.

Framed for the brutal murders of his classmates by the mysterious Red Man, middle school student Ganta Igarashi finds himself sentenced to death and sent to a bizarre and fatal theme park/prison that has risen from the ruins of the Great Tokyo Earthquake – a hell on earth known as “Deadman Wonderland.” The inmates of this insane penitentiary fight for survival every day to provide entertainment for the masses, and terrifying secrets lurk in the shadows. Ganta is determined to survive Deadman Wonderland and clear his name, but the price may be his soul. “DEADMAN WONDERLAND presents a stark vision of the future where a privately run, carnival-like prison stages notorious gladiatorial fights to the death that help to finance the city’s reconstruction,” says Mike Montesa, Editor. “Thrust into this surreal and violent new world for a crime he didn’t commit, Ganta discovers he possesses a power that can be used as a weapon and help him discover the truth. Now all he has to do is stay alive!”

VIZ Media Releases Dragonball Manga In Full Color

The new edition from the Shonen Jump imprint features a special full-color treatment of the first DRAGON BALL Z manga volume in a larger 6 5/8" x 10 ¼” size. The volume is rated ‘A’ for All Ages and will carry an MSRP of $19.99 U.S. / $22.99 CAN / £12.99 U.K. Future volumes will be published three times a year. DRAGON BALL FULL COLOR Vol. 1 also will be available for digital download for $12.99 (USD/CAN) from VIZManga.com and the VIZ MANGA App for the Apple iPad®, iPhone® and iPod® touch, Android-powered smart phones, as well as through the Nook, Kobo, Kindle, iBooks and GooglePlay stores.

In the series, Son Goku is the greatest hero on Earth. Five years after defeating the demon king Piccolo, he’s grown up and has a family. But what is the real reason for Goku’s incredible strength? A visitor from outer space arrives bearing terrible news – Goku is an alien, and the visitor, Raditz, is Goku’s brother! When Raditz turns out to be a ruthless killer, Goku must fight his incredibly strong brother to save his family and the entire human race. A surprising alliance may be Earth’s last hope: Goku will team up with his old enemy Piccolo to save the world! “Akira Toriyama’s bestselling manga series has thrilled generations of readers, and this new release lets fans revisit his groundbreaking martial arts action adventure in vivid full color,” says Mike Montesa, Editor. “Goku has become a skilled fighter, but new foes threaten his family and the Earth, and he must form new alliances in order to win the day. Fans current and new won’t want to miss the gorgeous new release of this classic series!”

Zetman Review

There are two forces in the world: the Zet, who are entrusted with the survival of humanity, and the Alphas, who have chosen an extreme form of justice. In a certain city, Jin lives under a bridge with an old man, struggling to pay off debts. He carries the destiny of humanity's survival. Kouga lives on a hill and stands to inherit vast wealth. In his admiration for heroes, he seeks out the meaning of justice. They don't know it now, but they are destined to one day meet.

Otakus & Geeks Holiday Guide 2013

It's the most wonderful time of the year and you know what that means. It's time for our 2013 Holiday Guide. There are so many great stuff to get this holiday season so check out our guide for 2013 and happy shopping.

Kids
Playmates Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Ninja Control Shellraiser

Drive the Turtles into their next battle with this new, full-function remote control vehicle. From rail-riding to street-surfing, Donatello’s customized combat creation packs a powerful punch. With the green team all aboard, the Turtles will cream the Kraang with a frenzy of fast-firing sewer covers!  This vehicle comes with full-steering remote-control action, as well as the ability to control the rapid-fire sewer-cover cannon.
                                                                 
Compatible with most Turtles basic action figures (sold separately).
SRP $49.99
AGE 4+

KidKraft Dora Dollhouse

Get ready to play with the most glamorous dollhouse on the block! The KidKraft Dora Dollhouse is loaded with colorful artwork and fun details that young girls are sure to love. From the specially-designed terracotta style roof to the open swing, this dollhouse has features you can’t find anywhere else! It includes 13 pieces of detailed furniture pieces unique to Dora’s casa including a charming bed for Dora to take naps.  Even Dora’s best friend, Boots, appears among the artwork. 31.97” L x 13.98” W x 46.42” H
SRP $114.95

Playmates Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Secret Sewer Lair Playset

The ultimate playset for Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle fans, the Secret Sewer Lair playset is ready for Ninja battle action!  Now available at all retailers, this playset will have kids creating their own Lair of excitement as they become the leader of the pack, swinging into action, training the Turtles and defeating Shredder once and for all.  Standing 42 inches tall and resembling the Sewer Lair that is home to the Turtles in the TV show, the Secret Sewer Lair includes more than 20 different exciting Ninja features, such as: a telescoping periscope so the Turtles can keep track of what’s going on in the city; rope swing and swing-down ladders for joining a battle at a moment’s notice; lines that can be connected to objects in a kid’s room, allowing the Turtles to rappel into battle; an elevator in the back of the set for easy transition from floor to floor; a computer lab for Donatello to master his latest invention; an ooze drain to douse the enemies trying to break in; and much, much more!
SRP $109.99

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Shell for iPhone 5

The Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Shells are tough, thick skins made of TPU synthetic rubber. Two layers are bonded together to create a protective cushion that wraps around your iPhone, protecting its edges and corners.

Legend of Korra, Book 1

Avatar Korra, a headstrong, rebellious, feisty young woman who continually challenges and breaks with tradition, is on her quest to become a fully realized Avatar. In this story, the Avatar struggles to find balance between tradition and modernity, the bending and non-bending world, and within herself.
Available on iTunes: http://bit.ly/17SXp12

Legend of Korra, Book 2: Spirits

Team Avatar returns! Korra and her friends have rid Republic City of Amon and the Equalists, but now they face an even bigger threat as the Spirit and Human worlds collide! Dark Spirits start to appear and randomly attack humans, and the only one who seems to know how to deal with these enemies is Korra’s uncle, the Chief of the Northern Water Tribe. Korra chooses to follow her uncle to understand more about the Spirit World, but when her father, Chief of the Southern Water Tribe, disagrees with some of his teachings, it spawns an all-out war between the two tribes with Avatar Korra caught in the middle! To stop the world from being permanently overrun by the Dark Spirits, it’s up to Korra and her friends to embark on a journey that takes them deep into the mythology of the mystical Spirit World, encountering creatures like nothing they’ve seen before, and discovering the truth about the very first Avatar!
Available on iTunes: http://bit.ly/18EO7jA

Bubble Guppies Toddler Bedding Set

Kids will love to jump into bed with their favorite friends from the aquarium-inspired world of Bubble Guppies with this Bubble Guppies Girls 4-Piece Toddler Bedding Set - Molly and Friends. The comforter features the adorable, singing Molly with her friends Oona and Deema by her side on the pillowcase. The bed set will delight little girls with its purple, pink and blue heart, bubble and musical note motif.
SRP $39.99

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Toddler Bedding Set
Your little dude will love going to bed surrounded by the coolest crime-fighting reptiles in town! The Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles 4-Piece Toddler Bedding Set comes with a bedspread, flat sheet, fitted sheet and pillowcase, all covered with awesome TMNT graphics. The entire set is crafted with comfy cotton for totally cozy snoozes.
SRP $39.99

New Anime Series Holiday Debuts:

ACCEL WORLD SET 1 • Rated “TV-14” • DVD MSRP: $44.82 U.S. /
$43.24 CAN; Blu-ray MSRP: $54.97 U.S. / $66.15 CAN • Available Nov. 26th  
In the year 2046, people use portable devices called Neuro-linkers to manage their daily lives in virtual reality networks. But advances in technology haven't managed to do away with bullies, and 13-year-old Haruyuki Arita finds himself a frequent target. Haruyuki escapes his miserable life in virtual games – until the day Kuroyukihime, the most popular girl in school, introduces him to a mysterious program called Brain Burst and a virtual reality called the Accel World. Set contains episodes 1-12 on 2 discs. Order from select retailers and receive a free 48-page ACCEL WORLD art booklet while supplies last!



ZETMAN THE COMPLETE UNCUT SERIES • Rated “TV-MA” • DVD MSRP: $44.82 U.S. / $43.24 CAN; BLU-RAY MSRP: $54.97 U.S. / $66.15 CAN • Available Now! 
Jin and Kouga may come from very different walks of life, but both boys are searching for the real meaning of justice and what it means to be a hero! Jin may be poor, but he lives a happy life with his grandfather, until the day tragedy strikes and changes his life forever. Kouga, born into a wealthy family, is in line to inherit his family’s power and fortune. But what is true strength? What does it really mean to be human? Jin and Kouga’s fates intertwine in their struggle to harness the power that lies within each of them! Set contains Episodes 1-13 on 2 discs. Order from select retailers and receive a free ZETMAN and ALPHAS decal set while supplies last!

Fan Favorite Holiday Debuts:

BLEACH UNCUT DVD SET 19 • Rated “TV-14” • MSRP: $44.82 U.S. / $43.24 CAN •Available Dec. 10th!  
As Ichigo and Ulquiorra battle, Loly and Menoly find a golden opportunity to dispose of Orihime. Unable to defend herself, Orihime is attacked without remorse, while a new enemy arises. Yammy breaks through the floor of the 5th Tower as Ulquiorra's reinforcement.  Despite the combined attacks of Ichigo and Uryu, they all seem useless against Ulquiorra and Yammy. Meanwhile, in the World of the Living, the mysterious Visoreds step onto the battlefield. Will they be friend or foe? Set contains Episodes 268 – 279 on 2 discs.

NARUTO SHIPPUDEN THE MOVIE: THE LOST TOWER • Rated “TV-14” • DVD MSRP:$19.98 U.S. / $24.98 CAN; BLU-RAY MSRP: $24.98 U.S. /
$27.50 CAN • Available Now! 
The rogue ninja Mukade is about to be caught by Naruto's team when he summons forth the power of the Ryumyaku–an ancient underground channel of chakra. Naruto gets caught up in the chakra and is sent back in time to the city of Loran, known for its thousand towers. There, he encounters the future Fourth Hokage Minato Namikaze on a top-secret mission and the Queen of Loran, Sara, whose rule is threatened by Mukade. Will Naruto be able to return to his own time, and can a chance encounter in the past save the future? Plus, in the exclusive Naruto animated short, Naruto and his friends come across a magical genie in a bottle. The time has come for the last wish, but Naruto just may squander it!

NARUTO SHIPPUDEN UNCUT DVD SET 16 • Rated “TV-14” •
MSRP: $44.82 U.S. / $43.24 CAN • Available Now! 
In the aftermath of the attack on the village, Naruto and Sakura are shocked to discover that Danzo has been selected as the new Hokage. And his first order of business involves Team 7's own Rogue Ninja--Sasuke! Then, the Kage from each village gather for a summit in the Land of Iron, and Naruto seeks a pardon for Sasuke from the Raikage. But the cycle of hatred runs deep in the shinobi world, and while the Five Kage discuss how to deal with the Akatsuki, the mysterious one calling himself Madara steps forward to reveal truths that will turn Naruto’s world upside down! Set contains Episodes 193-205 on 2 discs.
New TIGER & BUNNY Holiday Debuts:

TIGER & BUNNY THE MOVIE: THE BEGINNING • Rated “TV-14” •
DVD MSRP: $19.98 U.S. / $24.98 CAN; BLU-RAY MSRP: $24.98 U.S. /
$27.50 CAN • Available Now! 
In the metropolis of Stern Bild, there are heroes who wear the logos of sponsors and protect the city from danger. Their exploits are broadcast on the popular HERO TV. Wild Tiger (Kotetsu T. Kaburagi) is a veteran superhero past his peak who is ordered by his company to team up with the rookie hero Barnaby Brooks Jr. Can these two mismatched superheroes overcome their differences to protect the city?

TIGER & BUNNY SETS 1 & 2 • Rated “TV-14” •
DVD MSRP: $44.82 U.S. / $43.24 CAN each; BLU-RAY MSRP: $54.97 U.S. /
$66.15 CAN each • Available Now! 
Set 1: Stern Bild City is a thriving metropolis where superheroes called "NEXTs" protect the streets, sponsors pull the strings, and a hugely popular show called Hero TV captures all of it. Veteran hero Kotetsu T. Kaburagi (AKA Wild Tiger) and hotheaded new hero Barnaby Brooks, Jr. (nicknamed Bunny by Kotetsu) are forced to team up not only to protect Stern Bild City, but to earn as many points on Hero TV as possible. Joined by a diverse cast of heroes, all with different powers and answering to their own corporate sponsors, Tiger and Bunny must find a way to work together, uncover the secret of the "Ouroboros," and earn enough points to become this year's "King of Heroes." Set 1 contains Episodes 1-13 on 2 discs, and Set 2 contains Episodes 14-25 on 2 discs.

New POKÉMON Holiday Debuts:
POKÉMON BLACK & WHITE: RIVAL DESTINIES SET 1 • Rated “TV-Y7” •
MSRP: $19.97 U.S. / $24.98 CAN • Available Now! 
Ash battles for his fourth Unova Gym Badge at the Nimbasa City Gym. The stakes are high, and he’s taking no chances! Later, as the group prepares to leave Nimbasa City, Ash’s rival Trip introduces them to someone they only dreamed of meeting. Then, on the road to Driftveil City, our heroes come across some very special Pokémon in a very special place! Set contains Episodes 1-12 on 2 discs.

POKÉMON THE MOVIE: GENESECT AND THE LEGEND AWAKENED •
Rated “TV-Y7” •  MSRP: $19.97 U.S. / $24.98 CAN • Available Dec. 3rd! 
When big trouble threatens the big city, it’s up to Ash, Pikachu, and their friends to stop it! A vast Pokémon habitat amid the hustle and bustle of the big city seems like the perfect new home for a group of five Genesect. The arrival of these mythical Pokémon quickly becomes a problem though, their nest threatens the city’s power supply, and they keep attacking anyone who approaches it. On top of that, they’ve attracted the attention of the Legendary Pokémon Mewtwo, who sympathizes with them because its own origins also involve human tampering. Their leader, a red Genesect, doesn’t trust Mewtwo, and their confrontation quickly rages out of control! Can Ash and friends stop these two powerful Pokémon before they destroy the city?

Videogames via Gamespot.com
Console and Portable Deals

Xbox 360 250GB Bundle -- $189.99
Comes with: Tomb Raider, Batman Arkahm City, Halo 4, Darksiders 2
Where: Best Buy
Alternate: Basic Xbox 360 4GB at Wal-mart for $99
PS3 Slim 250GB Bundle -- $199.99
Comes with: The Last of Us and Batman Arkham Origins
Where: Best Buy, Wal-mart, GameStop, and Toys R Us
Alternate: Basic PS3 12GB at Wal-Mart for $149.99
Nintendo 3DS Bundle --$149.99
Comes with: Luigi's Mansion: Dark Moon
Where: Toy 'R Us and Best Buy
Alternate: Nintendo 2DS at Wal-Mart for $99
Wii U Deluxe Bundle -- $319.97
Comes with: Super Mario U, New Super Luigi U, Nintendo Land, and Mario or Luigi Wii Remote Plus
Where: Best Buy
UK Special -- Wii U Premium Mario Mega Bundle
Not to leave out anyone living in the UK, Nintendo is offering a special Wii U bundle through the Nintendo UK Online Store.
Comes with: Super Mario 3D World, New Super Mario Bros. U, New Super Luigi U, Mario Hat, Mario Wii Remote Plus, free delivery.
Services

PlayStation Plus 1 year subscription
Price: $29.99
Where: GameStop
Xbox Live Gold 3 month member ship
Price: $10
Where: Target
Individual Game Deals

Wal-mart will have a number of games on sale from 6pm - 7pm If any of these items sell out in the first hour, Wal-mart will offer a Guarantee Card for the item, ensuring that the product will be shipped to your store for you before Christmas.
Call of Duty: Ghosts -- $39.96
Grand Theft Auto V -- $34
Batman: Arkham Origins -- $34
NBA 2K14 -- $34
The following sales are in place while supplies last:
Assassin’s Creed 4: Black Flag -- $29.99 (Best Buy)
Battlefield 4 -- 29.99 (GameStop)
Beyond: Two Souls -- $25 (Wal-mart)
Disney Infinity Starter pack -- $37.49 (Toys 'R Us)
FIFA 14 -- $25 (Wal-mart)
Last of Us -- $25 (Wal-mart)
Skylanders SWAP Force Starter Pack -- $37.49 (Toys 'R Us)
For Xbox One, the Microsoft store is currently offering a $10 gift card for any digital game preorders.

Amazon is offering $5 to $10 gift cards for digital purchases of PS4 games.

ANIME ACTION SERIES "K" COMING IN LIMITED EDITION BLU-RAY COMBO PACK

The release of the psychological anime action thriller – K – as a special Limited Edition Blu-ray/DVD combo pack, as well as a standard DVD edition, on February 25th, 2014.

The acclaimed 13-episode series is rated TV-14 and will be offered as a special 4-Disc limited edition Blu-ray/DVD combo pack with an MSRP of $69.99 US/CAN. The set also includes a full-color 80 page premium art booklet containing individual episode synopses, character profiles, poster art, translated song lyrics, an exclusive KANAME☆ K cosplay photo gallery, and much more! The standard edition 2-disc DVD set will be offered at an MSRP $44.88 US/CAN.
 
K introduces viewers to Shiro, an easygoing teenager content with just being a student – until his seemingly perfect life is suddenly halted when a bloodthirsty clan, glowing red with fire, attempts to kill him in the streets. Unbeknownst to Shiro, he is suspected of murdering a member of their clan and will need a miracle to escape their vengeance. Miraculously, a young man named Kuroh Yatogami swings in and aids Shiro in his getaway, only to reveal afterward he's also after Shiro's life. Now a hunted man, Shiro will have to evade the clans of seven powerful kings and desperately try to prove his innocence – before it’s too late!
 
An extensive collection of bonus material makes this K release a must-see for anime fans. The Blu-ray/DVD combo pack will come packaged in a luxurious collectible specialty print chipboard box holding the art booklet and disc case. Limited Edition combo pack extra features include: VIZ Presents an Interview with KANAME☆, an insightful segment with one of Japan’s most popular professional cosplayers during his first-ever U.S. guest appearance to celebrate the debut of K at Anime Expo in Los Angeles in 2013; a KANAME☆ as Fushimi Photo Gallery; special K Day Events and convention highlights from Anime Expo including the VIZ Media K panel with cast, staff and special guests; exclusive English cast and crew interviews; the series’ original Japanese and English trailers; and clean opening and ending segments (with English translated and subtitled options), next episode previews and more.
 
K was developed by GoHands, the noted studio that also created the cyberpunk anime film series, Mardock Scramble, and the enigmatic writers’ collective, GoRA Project. VIZ Media premiered K in North America on its VIZAnime.com streaming service on the same day as the Japanese broadcast debut and the series continues to grow in popularity in rotation on the company’s Neon Alley 24/7 anime channel.

“Filled with gorgeous imagery, attractive characters and an engaging story from GoRa and GoHands, K became a viewer favorite during its simulcast premiere and subsequent runs on Neon Alley,” says Charlene Ingram, VIZ Media Senior Manager, Animation Marketing. “With such a fantastic fan response, we're pleased to have K be our first Limited Edition Blu-ray/DVD combo pack title. With such beautiful packaging and loads of extras, we hope fans will become as excited about this upcoming release as we are!"

 

VIZ Media's Haikasoru Imprint Announces The Release of Apparitions: The Ghosts Of Old EDO

VIZ Media’s Haikasoru literary imprint is proud to announce the North American release of famed Japanese author Miyuki Miyabe’s chilling collection of ghost stories – APPARITIONS: THE GHOSTS OF OLD EDO. The new release carries an MSRP of $14.99 U.S. / $16.99 CAN.
 
An eBook edition is also available for $8.99 (U.S. / CAN) for the Amazon Kindle, Apple’s iBooks Store, Barnes & Noble’s Nook Book Store, and the Kobo eBooks Store.
 
Haikasoru publishes some of the most compelling contemporary Japanese science fiction and fantasy stories for English-speaking audiences, and is the first imprint based in the U.S. dedicated to Japanese science fiction and fantasy in translation.

In old Edo, the past was never forgotten. It lived alongside the present in dark corners and in the shadows. In these tales, award-winning author Miyuki Miyabe explores the ghosts of early modern Japan and the spaces of the living world – workplaces, families, and the human soul – that they inhabit. Written with a journalistic eye and a fantasist’s heart, APPARITIONS brings the restless dead, and those who encounter them, to life.

“Miyuki Miyabe turns her thorough knowledge of Japan’s rich tradition of horror and genuinely creepy folklore into a unique collection of terrifying stories set amidst the darker shadows of Japan’s old capital in APPARITIONS: THE GHOSTS OF OLD EDO,” says Nick Mamatas, Editor, Haikasoru. “The days draw shorter, the nights longer and more ominous, and it’s a perfect time to take in this remarkable collection of ghost stories set amidst the bustling merchant culture of the classic Edo period!”
 
Author Miyuki Miyabe's first novel was published in 1987, and since then she has become one of Japan's most popular and best-selling authors. In 2007, Miyabe's novel, BRAVE STORY (also published North America by Haikasoru), notably won the Batchelder Award for Best Children's Book in Translation from the American Library Association. Her fantasy novels ICO: CASTLE IN THE MIST and BRAVE STORY are also available from VIZ Media’s Haikasoru imprint. APPARITIONS: THE GHOSTS OF OLD EDO is her newest book to be translated into English.

 

VIZ MEDIA's SUBLIME IMPRINT DEBUTS SPIRITUAL POLICE YAOI MANGA SERIES

Youka Nitta’s latest release – SPIRITUAL POLICE. The new manga series launches today, is rated ‘M’ for Mature Readers, and carries an MSRP of $12.99 U.S. / $14.99 CAN. 

Rookie police officer Nagatsuma doesn’t believe in superstitious mumbo-jumbo, so he’s skeptical the first time he visits a masseur known as the “Spiritual Doctor.” But he soon learns that the blind, beautiful Aoi is more than just a physical therapist—when he lays his hands on his patients, he can see into their fates and souls. But is Aoi the saintly healer he seems to be? And when the two men give in to the desire for a more-than-clinical relationship, can Nagatsuma separate his new feelings from his job on the force? 

“Youka Nitta’s latest SuBLime release turns on the drama as Aoi and Nagatsuma find themselves falling for each other and also snared in a complex web tying them both to a mysterious cult leader,” says Jennifer LeBlanc, Editor, SuBLime, “The passion also becomes palpable as cute rookie cop Nagatsuma discovers Aoi has senses and special skills that were heightened when he lost his sight. Readers and fans of Youka Nitta especially will not want to miss this sexy new series from one of the biggest names in the yaoi genre!” Youka Nitta made her publishing debut with GROUPIE in 1995, and since then has become one of the most prolific and popular yaoi manga creators worldwide. Her most well-known series, EMBRACING LOVE (published in North America as a 2-in-1 edition by SuBLime), has been adapted into both a drama CD as well as an anime series. Another of Nitta’s popular manga series, STARTING WITH A KISS, is also published in North America by SuBLime. More information about Youka Nitta is available on her English-language website at: http://nittayouka.com.

VIZ Media Releases Zetman Anime On DVD & Blu-Ray

ZETMAN on November 5^th. The 13-episode series is rated ‘TV-MA’ for Mature Audiences and will be offered Uncut in DVD and Blu-ray editions. The DVD MSRP is $44.82 U.S. / $43.24 CAN and Blu-ray MSRP is $54.97 U.S. / $66.15 CAN.

ZETMAN is based on a popular manga (graphic novel) series by Masakazu Katsura, who also created VIDEO GIRL AI and I”S (both published in North America by VIZ Media) and was the character designer for the hit anime series, TIGER & BUNNY (also available on Blu-ray and DVD at North American retailers).

Features for the Blu-ray and DVD editions include English dubbed or original Japanese audio selections (with English Subtitles), clean opening and ending segments, the original Japanese broadcast trailer, marathon play option, and an exclusive interview with ZETMAN manga series creator Masakazu Katsura taken during his recent appearance at New York Comic Con.

Jin and Kouga may come from very different walks of life, but both boys are searching for the real meaning of justice and what it means to be a hero! Jin may be poor, but he lives a happy life with his grandfather, until the day tragedy strikes and changes his life forever. Kouga, born into a wealthy family, is in line to inherit his family’s power and fortune. But what is true strength? What does it really mean to be human? Jin and Kouga’s fates intertwine in their struggle to harness the power that lies within each of them!

 

 

VIZ Media New York Comic Con Panels & Special Events

Hey Otakus here is a the schedule for VIZ Media for the upcoming New York Comic Con 2013. Anime Rules!!!!

 

VIZ Media New York Comic Con Panels & Special Events Include:

Friday October 11^th

3:00PM – 4:00PM Panel: Weekly Shonen Jump Podcast –

Live Recording! (Room 1A23)

Meet the team behind the English-language edition of Weekly Shonen Jump and be part of a live podcast recording! Bring your toughest SJ questions for the editors and your own manga knowledge for a chance to win some awesome prizes in our trivia challenge!

4:15PM – 5:15PM Panel: VIZ Media (Room 1A15)

Join the VIZ Media staff for a presentation all about the latest in manga and anime! We'll be talking about the latest news, upcoming releases and other cool announcements from our publishing and animation teams.

5:30PM – 6:30PM Panel: RANMA ½ (Room 1A23)

From the legendary manga creator, Rumiko Takahashi, RANMA ½ is the manga and anime series that ignited a passion for these mediums in North America. With its wacky hi-jinks and crazy comedic action, the characters and stories of RANMA have resonated with generations of fans. Join the VIZ Media manga and anime teams as they discuss the history of this legendary title and the process of re-launching the new Right-to-Left manga editions as well as releasing the anime series for the first time on Blu-ray and digital.

Saturday October 12^th

2:30PM – 3:30PM UGLYDOLL Signing & Photo Op

(VIZ Media Booth #1944)

Meet UGLYDOLL^® artist Ian McGinty and Uglydoll Big Toe at the VIZ Media booth and get an exclusively signed free poster!

4:15PM – 5:15PM Panel: Writing for Kids of All Ages: Perfect Square

(Room 1A15)

Perfect Square is dedicated to delivering “squarely perfect storytelling” for kids and kids at heart. That means any age comics reader can enjoy new content with beloved characters starting with the youngest readers to the most seasoned true comics fan. Discussing the importance of what it means to make age-appropriate comics that everyone can enjoy are the highly-acclaimed writers for Perfect Square including Brian Smith (writer VOLTRON FORCE, MONSUNO, MAX STEEL; former DC & Marvel editor), former Marvel editors Sebastian Girner (writer MONSUNO) and Cory Levine (writer MONSUNO, BEN 10: OMNIVERSE), B. Clay Moore (writer MAX STEEL, BEN 10: OMNIVERSE), Jacob Chabot (writer/artist HELLO KITTY), Corin Howell (writer/artist BEN 10: OMNIVERSE) and Tom Pinchuk (writer MAX STEEL). The panel will be moderated by Perfect Square’s editorial team: Beth Kawasaki, Joel Enos and Traci Todd.

8:00PM – 9:00PM Panel: VIZ Anime, Featuring Neon Alley

(Room 1A15)

This panel is all about anime! Learn about the latest and greatest projects, announcements and releases from the VIZ animation team as well as what's in store for our 24/7 streaming anime channel, Neon Alley.

Sunday October 13^th

12:15PM – 1:15PM Panel: ALL YOU NEED IS KILL: Adapting An

Adaptation (Room 1A15)

First came author Hiroshi Sakurazaka’s mind-bending novel, which is published by VIZ Media’s Haikasoru imprint in the U.S. Now ALL YOU NEED IS KILL delivers a double-whammy of being adapted both into a major motion picture (Edge of Tomorrow starring Tom Cruise) and a full-length graphic novel edition. Join the VIZ Media editorial team behind the novel and comic to learn how it all came together and what’s next for this science fiction juggernaut.

Anime Screenings

Thursday October 10^th

6:45PM – 7:45PM Screening: RANMA ½ (Room 1A06)

Catch the classic martial arts action adventure comedy that has thrilled generations of anime Fans! Ranma Saotome never thought a martial arts training mission to China would turn out like this! Due to an unfortunate accident at the cursed Chinese training ground Jusenkyo, when Ranma and his father get splashed with cold water, papa turns into a giant panda and male Ranma becomes a buxom young woman! Hot water reverses the effect, but only until the next time! Constantly chased by battle-happy martial artists and lovesick suitors of both sexes, what's a half-boy, half-girl martial artist to do?

Saturday October 12^th

7:45PM – 9:45PM Film Premiere: BERSERK: THE GOLDEN AGE ARC III – THE ADVENT (Room 1A22)

Watch the dubbed epic conclusion to the dark medieval fantasy movie trilogy BERSERK: THE GOLDEN AGE ARC! It’s been a year since Griffith’s imprisonment by the Kingdom of Midland. Once praised as the saviors of the Midland, The Band of the Hawk has been on the run and is on the brink of breaking apart. Much to everyone’s surprise, Guts returns to the Hawks and the search for Griffith begins!

 

 

MY NEIGHBOR TOTORO NOVEL AND FULL COLOR PICTURE BOOK

VIZ Media, LLC (VIZ Media), the largest distributor and licensor of anime and manga in North America, marks the 25th Anniversary of famed director Hayao Miyazaki’s whimsical animated family fantasy, MY NEIGHBOR TOTORO, with the release on October 1st of MY NEIGHBOR TOTORO: THE NOVEL and a brand new edition of the MY NEIGHBOR TOTORO Picture Book.

Published under VIZ Media’s Studio Ghibli Library imprint, MY NEIGHBOR TOTORO: THE NOVEL carries an MSRP of $17.99 U.S. / $21.00 CAN, and the MY NEIGHBOR TOTORO Picture Book features an MSRP of $19.99 U.S. / $22.99 CAN.

In Hayao Miyazaki’s charming animated classic, eleven-year-old Satsuki and her sassy little sister Mei have moved to the country to be closer to their ailing mother. While their father is working, the girls explore their sprawling old house and the forest and fields that surround it. Soon, Satsuki and Mei discover Totoro, a magical forest spirit who takes them on fantastic adventures through the trees and the clouds – and teaches them a lesson about trusting one another.

MY NEIGHBOR TOTORO: THE NOVEL
MSRP: $17.99 U.S. / $21.00 CAN · Available October 1st
The superbly animated classic by legendary Studio Ghibli director Hayao Miyazaki is now retold in a novel written by Tsugiko Kubo. This prestigious hardcover edition also features original watercolor illustrations by Miyazaki himself, accompanying a story written by veteran children's book author Tsugiko Kubo. Sure to delight both existing fans and new readers!

MY NEIGHBOR TOTORO PICTURE BOOK New Edition · Rated “A” for All Ages · MSRP: $19.99 U.S. / $22.99 CAN · Available October 1st
This companion, full-color book to MY NEIGHBOR TOTORO features artwork taken directly from the movie. The updated edition also features new cover design and allows parents and children to relive Totoro's magical adventures with scene-by-scene illustrations and character dialogue.

“MY NEIGHBOR TOTORO is Hayao Miyazki’s timeless fairy tale for all ages and one of the most internationally acclaimed films to ever come out of Japan,” says Masumi Washington, Sr. Editorial Director. “MY NEIGHBOR TOTORO: THE NOVEL and the new edition of the MY NEIGHBOR TOTORO PICTURE BOOK capture the poignancy and emotion of the story of Satsuki, Mei and their loveable fuzzy forest friends and will be wonderful additions to any Miyazaki fan’s personal library.”

MY NEIGHBOR TOTORO was released in 1988 by Hayao Miyazaki’s Studio Ghibli, which also produced SPIRITED AWAY, PRINCESS MONONOKE, HOWL’S MOVING CASTLE and PONYO. TOTORO is an internationally popular property that has spawned a colorful array of adorable plush characters, toys, collectables and other memorabilia. Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment released the DVD/Blu-ray Edition of MY NEIGHBOR TOTORO earlier this year.

Hayao Miyazaki is one of Japan's most celebrated anime directors. His newest film, The Wind Rises (2013), recounts the early days of aviation and the formative years of Japan's famed World War II Zero fighter plane designer, Jiro Horikoshi. In 2005 Hayao Miyazaki was awarded the Venice International Film Festival's Golden Lion Award for Lifetime Achievement. Miyazaki’s other notable films include Spirited Away, which won the 2002 Academy Award® for Best Animated Feature Film, as well as Castle in the Sky, My Neighbor Totoro, Kiki's Delivery Service, Princess Mononoke, Howl's Moving Castle, and Ponyo, all of which have received great international acclaim. Miyazaki's other achievements include creating the highly regarded manga series Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind and Starting Point: 1979-1996, a collection of essays, interviews, and memoirs that chronicle his early career and the development of his theories of animation. Both are published in English by VIZ Media.

More information on VIZ Media’s Studio Ghibli titles is available at www.VIZ.com

VIZ MEDIA's NEON ALLEY DEBUTS NEW "CATCH-UP" VOD FEATURE FOR 24/7 ANIME CHANNEL

VIZ Media has unveiled a new “Catch-Up” feature available now for the web-based version of Neon Alley, the company’s 24/7 anime channel.
 
With this new expanded feature, Neon Alley members may select either a “Watch Live” or “Catch Up” option upon logging onto the service. The “Watch Live” option provides fans with the 24/7 linear English-dubbed channel that the network has come to be known for, and with the addition of the Video-On Demand “Catch Up” option, fans now have the flexibility to watch shows at their convenience. The “Catch Up” option also allows viewers to search for content by individual series or by latest additions.

Every episode carried by Neon Alley will be available for a minimum of one week after its initial premiere. Other "World Premiere Neon Alley Exclusives,” such as NARUTO SHIPPUDEN, K, and ACCEL WORLD, will remain available for a minimum of 2 weeks during a series' initial run on the platform. Accessing the details of a selected episode will permit members know how long that particular episode or movie will be available as part of the “Catch Up” service. VIZ Media plans to integrate the “Catch Up” service for Neon Alley for the Xbox 360® and Xbox LIVE® and the PlayStation®3 (PS3™) gaming system and the PlayStation®Network later this Fall.

“Neon Alley currently features over two dozen different anime series, plus weekly movie premieres and other exclusive programming, and the ability for members to access and watch programs whenever they want using this new feature will give them an even greater degree of flexibility and convenience,” explains Brian Ige, VIZ Media VP of Animation. “As we prepare to launch our Fall season, Neon Alley members can complement their linear viewing experience with the new ‘Catch Up’ feature to ensure that they never miss a single program!”
 
Neon Alley is VIZ Media’s 24-hour anime channel that is available for general web access as well as the Xbox 360® and Xbox LIVE® and the PlayStation®3 (PS3™) gaming system and the PlayStation®Network. Neon Alley is specially designed to be studio agnostic, featuring titles from other anime producers and content distributors, including Aniplex, FUNimation, NTV, Taiseng, and Anime News Network. The channel’s diverse schedule includes a mix of action, adventure, sci-fi, supernatural, fantasy, and horror anime, uncut and dubbed into English, and presented in HD (when available), for a low monthly subscription rate of only $6.99. For a limited time only, the service is also offering a one-week free trial available to all fans that sign up at NeonAlley.com

VIZ MEDIA ANNOUNCES THE RETURN OF RANMA 1/2 ANIME & MANGA SERIES TO NORTH AMERICA

VIZ Media today also launches the smash-hit RANMA ½ (subtitled, rated TV-14) anime series on its VIZAnime.com streaming service as well as on Hulu. The series will debut on its Neon Alley anime channel this fall (dubbed), and will be available on DVD and, for the first time ever, Blu-ray box set editions next year.

To celebrate the return of RANMA ½, VIZ Media is planning a variety of booth activities and special programming scheduled for the 2013 New York Comic-Con, taking place October 10-13 at the Jacob Javits Convention Center in Manhattan. More details will be announced shortly.

Ranma Saotome never thought a martial arts training mission to China would turn out like this! Due to an unfortunate accident at the cursed Chinese training ground Jusenkyo, when Ranma and his father get splashed with cold water, papa turns into a giant panda and male Ranma becomes a buxom young woman! Hot water reverses the effect, but only until the next time! Constantly chased by battle-happy martial artists and lovesick suitors of both sexes, what's a half-boy, half-girl martial artist to do?

“A groundbreaking story with eccentric characters, martial arts mayhem, and quirky romantic subplots, RANMA ½ is a zany adventure that has thrilled generations of fans with its colorful mix of action, romance and screwball comedy,” says Leyla Aker, Vice President, Publishing. “We’re delighted to deliver this classic manga series to a new legion of North American fans this spring in 2-in-1 editions presented in right-to-left format for the first time.”

“RANMA ½ also introduced many influential artists to manga and anime fandom, and it remains a celebrated piece of the genre’s history,” adds Brian Ige, VIZ Media Vice President of Animation. “The addition of the anime series to our extensive digital catalog will present these acclaimed episodes in an entirely new way and allow fans to take advantage of the convenience and flexibility that VIZAnime and Neon Alley offer. Fans can also look forward to the hi-definition Blu-ray and DVD release this spring!”

Rumiko Takahashi is one of Japan’s most prolific and respected manga artists and is the creator of several long running series including MAISON IKKOKU, RANMA 1/2, and INUYASHA – all published in North America by VIZ Media. The spotlight on her prolific career began in 1978 when she won an honorable mention in Shogakukan's annual New Comic Artist Contest for Those Selfish Aliens. Later that same year, her boy-meets-alien comedy series, Urusei Yatsura, was serialized in Weekly Shonen Sunday. This phenomenally successful manga series was adapted into anime format and also spawned a TV series and half a dozen theatrical-release movies, all incredibly popular. Takahashi followed up the success of her debut series with one blockbuster hit after another— MAISON IKKOKU ran from 1980 to 1987, RANMA ½ from 1987 to 1996, and INUYASHA from 1996 to 2008. Other notable works include MERMAID SAGA, RUMIC THEATER, ONE-POUND GOSPEL, and RIN-NE (all also published in North America by VIZ Media).

 

 

VIZ Media Announces Films For Japan Film Festival In S.F.

VIZ Media has announced its participation in the upcoming Japan Film Festival of San Francisco (JFFSF), the first annual dedicated Japanese film festival for Northern California and the S.F. Bay Area. The Festival, which is presented by the NEW PEOPLE Japanese pop culture entertainment venue at its NEW PEOPLE Cinema in conjunction with the 2013 J-POP Summit, will host the exclusive U.S. theatrical premiere of NARUTO SHIPPUDEN THE MOVIE: THE LOST TOWER on Saturday, July 28^th as well as a special encore screening of TIGER & BUNNY: THE BEGINNING, on Friday, August 2^nd, and also BERSERK THE GOLDEN AGE ARC II – THE BATTLE FOR DOLDREY on Sunday, July 28^th at 3:50pm.  Films will be presented with original Japanese dialogue and English subtitles.

The Japan Film Festival of San Francisco’s week-long series of film screenings includes more than 16 acclaimed live-action and anime titles and will take place at the NEW PEOPLE Cinema beginning Saturday July 27^th and running through Sunday August 4^th. Tickets are $13.00 per film unless otherwise indicated. NEW PEOPLE Cinema is located at 1746 Post St. (cross street is Webster St.) in the heart of San Francisco’s Japantown.

NARUTO advance tickets are available at: http://jffsf.org/2013/naruto-shippuden-the-lost-tower/

BERSERK THE GOLDEN AGE ARC II – THE BATTLE FOR DOLDREY advance tickets are available at: http://jffsf.org/2013/berserk2/

TIGER & BUNNY advance tickets are available at:  http://jffsf.org/2013/naruto-shippuden-the-lost-tower/

Complete film schedules and advance ticket information for other screenings are available on www.jffsf.org.

VIZ Media will also offer free manga samplers that highlight a bevy of its top graphic novel series to each ticketholder. Each ticketholder will receive a bag and of full-color promo posters.

NARUTO SHIPPUDEN THE MOVIE: THE LOST TOWER - U.S. Premiere!

Saturday, July 28^th, 1:30pm (During 2013 J-POP Summit Festival!)

Monday, July 29^th, 4:30PM

The Rogue Ninja Mukade is about to be caught by Naruto's team when he summons forth the power of the LeyLine - an ancient underground channel of chakra. Naruto gets caught up in the chakra and is sent back in time to the city of Loran, known for its thousand towers. There he encounters the future Fourth Hokage, Minato Namikaze, on a top-secret mission, and the Queen of Loran, Sarah, whose rule is threatened by Mukade. Will Naruto be able to return to his own time, and can a chance encounter in the past save the future? Additional information on NARUTO and NARUTO SHIPPUDEN is available at www.Naruto.com.

BERSERK THE GOLDEN AGE ARC II – Special Encore Presentation!

Sunday, July 28^th, 3:50pm (During 2013 J-POP Summit Festival!)

Wednesday, July 31^st, 4:30pm

The exciting second film in the BERSERK GOLDEN AGE ARC TRILOGY, based on the bestselling manga series. For three years, Guts believed his mission was to pursue Griffith’s dream together with him. But in order to become Griffith’s equal and truly be called his friend, Guts realizes he will have to leave the Band of the Hawk. At the same time, a bloody battle to capture the impenetrable Fortress of Doldrey from the Empire of Chuder is about to begin. The Band of the Hawk will face an army 30,000 strong!

TIGER & BUNNY: THE BEGINNING – Special Encore Presentation!!!

Friday, August 2^nd, 4:00pm

The hero-inspired big screen action of the smash hit anime property – Tiger & Bunny – returns to the Bay Area for one-night-only! The city of Sternbild is protected by corporate superheroes known as NEXT, who fight crime while promoting their sponsors on the popular show “HERO TV.” Veteran hero Wild Tiger relies on his years of experience and instincts to fight crime, but his tendency to destroy public property for the sake of protecting the lives of the innocent has earned him the nickname “Crusher for Justice.” Now, under orders from his new employer, Wild Tiger finds himself forced to team up with Barnaby Brooks Jr., a rookie with an attitude. Will the two unlikely new partners find a way to work together? Please visit the official TIGER & BUNNY Facebook page for more information http://www.facebook.com/TigerAndBunny.

The Japan Film Festival of San Francisco is presented in conjunction with the 2013 J-POP Summit, taking place Saturday July 27^th and Sunday July 28^th across the city’s historic Japantown district to celebrate the phenomenon of Japanese pop culture with a colorful array of live bands and artists, panel discussions, film premieres, edgy fashion shows and DJ dance events, celebrity appearances and more.

Weekly Shonen Jump In Multiple New International Territories

WEEKLY SHONEN JUMP debuts the innovative digital manga (graphic novel) magazine in the United Kingdom, Ireland, Australia, New Zealand and South Africa starting on July 4^th. WEEKLY SHONEN JUMP is VIZ Media’s weekly digital serial anthology that features the latest chapters from a variety of popular manga (graphic novel) series on the same day they appear in the Japanese Weekly Shonen Jump magazine.

Issues in the new territories will be available every Monday at 10 am Pacific Standard Time through the WEEKLY SHONEN JUMP Newsstand App available for the Apple iPad^®, iPhone and iPod touch. WEEKLY SHONEN JUMP currently features the latest installments of some of the world’s most popular manga series including ONE PIECE, NARUTO, NISEKOI, BLEACH, TORIKO, WORLD TRIGGER and coming soon, JACO THE GALACTIC PATROLMAN by Akira Toriyama, released each week to English readers on the same day as their general release in Japan. Monthly series such as BLUE EXORCIST and YU-GI-OH! ZEXAL debut on the closest Monday after the Japanese release. Also serialized in the anthology is ONE-PUNCH MAN as well as a new color version of DRAGON BALL.

WEEKLY SHONEN JUMP International Subscription Pricing:

o    UK - £1.99 / month

o    Ireland - 2,69 € / month

o    Australia - $2.99 (AUD) / month

o    New Zealand - $4.19 (NZD) / month

o    South Africa - R24.99 / month

“The launch of WEEKLY SHONEN JUMP in these new territories is an important milestone for international manga publishing, and will give English reading fans in these countries access to the same award winning content contained the Japanese edition appearing on newsstands the same day,” says Andy Nakatani, Editor-in-Chief. “VIZ Media is committed to the global growth of the Shonen Jump brand and to utilizing digital technology and innovation to deliver manga content in the best possible way to readers everywhere. We look forward international fans joining the global WEEKLY SHONEN JUMP movement!”

In North America, WEEKLY SHONEN JUMP is available as both an annual subscription (for $25.99/year) and monthly subscription (for $2.99/month). Annual subscriptions are available from vizmanga.com and in the VIZ Manga App for the Apple iPad^®, iPhone^® or iPod^® touch, Android-enabled tablets, as well as the Kindle Fire. Annual members receive exclusive YU-GI-OH! promotional trading cards throughout the year (cards are not available to iPad Newsstand subscribers or in overseas territories), and access to additional magazine content, including creator interviews and insightful promotional videos. Current subscribers can also access their account via the Newsstand App.

VIZ Media Brings Anime To Licensing Expo

VIZ Media returns to Las Vegas for the 2013 Licensing Expo with a robust catalog of some of the world’s top anime properties. The 2013 Licensing Expo is the world’s largest and most influential licensing industry event and takes place June 18th-20th at the Mandalay Bay Convention Center in Las Vegas, NV. VIZ Media will be located in Booth # A137.

The annual Licensing Expo (www.licensingexpo.com) is the licensing industry's premier trade event for leveraging properties and brand equity to develop merchandise, Licensing Expo attracts more than 400 exhibitors representing more than 5,000 brands and properties in entertainment; sports; fashion and apparel; publishing; art and design; automotive; animation/anime; home and housewares; and lifestyle. Attendees from more than 80 countries represent the world's leading retailers, licensees, manufacturers, distributors and licensing agents.

Anime properties VIZ Media will highlight at 2013 Licensing Expo include:

NARUTO SHIPPUDEN (Rated ‘T+’ for Older Teens)
NARUTO has become the hottest animated series across North America and is one of VIZ Media’s most successful manga and animated properties in terms of sales. NARUTO has aired on TV since 2005, and is currently the most watched anime program on Cartoon Network’s Toonami block. On HULU, the 500+ subtitled episodes have reached over 200 million views. In addition, digital downloads are available on all major platforms including iTunes, Xbox, Amazon, Google and Xbox. NARUTO’s continuous popularity has brought more than 1000 consumer products to the U.S. market, including video games  from Namco Bandai (7 million copies sold), graphic novels from VIZ Media (127 million copies sold), and trading card games from Bandai America (10 million packs sold).

In May 2013, the first official fan-designed t-shirt contest took place. The contest’s success resulted the immediate interest from numerous retail buyers. VIZ Media continues to secure new licensees and expand to new product lines, ranging from digital products to food and beverage items.

More information is available on the official website at VIZ.com/naruto.

BERSERK: THE GOLDEN AGE TRILOGY (Rated ‘M’ for Mature Audiences)
Based on the bestselling medieval dark fantasy manga (graphic novel) series created by Kentaro Miura, the BERSERK animation is beloved by not only anime and manga fans, but also holds a large following in the action-fantasy world. To date, 31 million BERSERK graphic novels have been sold worldwide. The trilogy has been nominated for multiple international movie awards for its extreme precision, and dynamic graphics.

The first two movies screened at a special premiere event in San Francisco in Spring 2013, and the third film will debut Summer 2014. Figures and accessories made in Japan are currently available in the U.S. High-end collectors figures are scheduled for released in early 2014.

For more information on the BERSERK: THE GOLDEN AGE ARC film trilogy, please visit the official Facebook page at: www.facebook.com/BerserkFilm.

ACCEL WORLD (Rated ‘T+’ for Older Teens)
Based on award winning novel (3.5 million copies sold in Japan), ACCEL WORLD takes place in the year 2046 when the virtual world becomes reality. All 24 subtitled episodes are available on Hulu and the series is top rated in the Science Fiction Anime category. In addition, 100,000 copies of Namco Bandai’s Accel World PSP and PS3 games have sold in Japan.  Currently apparel, accessories, and figures are available in the US market.  ACCEL WORLD continues to venture into new item categories in 2013.

For more information on ACCEL WORLD, please visit: VIZAnime.com/accel-world.

K (Rated ‘T’ for Teens)
From GoHands, the studio that brought you the cyberpunk anime film series Mardock Scramble, and the enigmatic writers’ collective GoRA Project comes K. The highly anticipated series revealed little information on the plot until the its simultaneous debut in 54 countries in 2012. Upon its release, K instantly attracted the attention of a wide fan base. The first K publicity event in Japan resulted in attendance exceeding 250% of capacity, and sold out of 5000 event tickets in 15 minutes. All 13 episodes are currently streamed on Hulu and are top ranking in the Action Adventure Anime category.

For more information about K, please visit VIZAnime.com/k.

Additional VIZ Media anime properties available for license include:

BLEACH
DEATH NOTE
INUYASHA: THE FINAL ACT
LAGRANGE: THE FLOWER OF RIN-NE
NARUTO
NARUTO SPINOFF: ROCK LEE AND HIS NINJA PALS
TIGER & BUNNY
VAMPIRE KNIGHT
ZETMAN

VIZ Media Delivers Latest Novel In Vampire Hunter D Sage With Noble V: Greylancer

VIZ Media’s Haikasoru literary imprint delivers a bloodthirsty new chapter of the legendary Vampire Hunter D saga with the North American release of NOBLE V: GREYLANCER, now available in stores. The new fantasy novel by Hideyuki Kikuchi, carries an MSRP of $14.99 U.S. / $16.99 CAN. The release also includes a bonus novelette titled, "An Irreplaceable Existence.” An eBook edition is also available for the Amazon Kindle, Apple’s iBooks Store, and the Barnes & Noble’s Nook Books Store.

Haikasoru publishes some of the most compelling contemporary Japanese science fiction and fantasy stories for English-speaking audiences, and is the first imprint based in the U.S. dedicated to Japanese science fiction and fantasy in translation.

Internationally acclaimed writer, Hideyuki Kikuchi, author and creator of the famed novel series, Vampire Hunter D, delves into the past with his latest addition, NOBLE V: GREYLANCER, It is the year 7000 by Noble reckoning, and the vampire rulers of the world have grown complacent. When the Outer Space Beings (OSBs) invade, the Noble warrior Greylancer must pit his skills and magic against the technology of the OSBs, quash an anti-Noble rebellion, and, when he is critically injured, turn to mere humans for help. The Three Thousand Year War of Vampire Hunter D begins here!

“Hideyuki Kikuchi is one of Japan's top horror and science fiction authors in the proud tradition of Robert Bloch, Fritz Leiber, H.P. Lovecraft, and Stephen King. His Vampire Hunter D setting has been attracting fans in the U.S. for more than twenty years,” says Nick Mamatas, Haikasoru’s editor. “NOBLE V: GREYLANCER reveals the mysterious history of the Nobility and follows the exploits of the powerful Noble warrior Greylancer as pushes his own immortality to the limit. Kikuchi is an ardent fan of many classic horror tropes, and his new novel exquisitely combines the danger and violence of traditional literary vampires with the nobility and dark attraction of modern vampire iconography.”

Hideyuki Kikuchi was born in 1949 in Chiba, Japan and, inspired by the work of writers such as H. P. Lovecraft, began writing supernatural fiction in the early 1980s. His first novel, Demon City Shinjuku, debuted in 1982. Horror films, most notably 1958’s The Horror of Dracula, had a tremendous impact on Kikuchi and inspired him to create the legendary Vampire Hunter D series, which has spawned more than 17 novels and a host of novellas and related short stories. One of the world’s most prolific authors, Kikuchi has published over three hundred books and still produces multiple novels per year. He has enjoyed tremendous international success as a novelist and much of his work has been also been adapted into manga and anime, including Vampire Hunter D. Wicked City, A Wind Named Amnesia, and Dark Wars: The Tale of Meiji Dracula.

BERSERK PREMIERE AT NEW PEOPLE & ON NEON ALLEY ON MAY 11th

VIZ Media reminds anime fans of the upcoming special double-feature theatrical presentation of BERSERK: THE GOLDEN AGE ARC I – THE EGG OF THE KING and the exclusive North American premiere of BERSERK: THE GOLDEN AGE ARC II - THE BATTLE FOR DOLDREY taking place on Saturday, May 11th at the NEW PEOPLE Cinema, located inside the dynamic Japanese pop culture entertainment venue in San Francisco’s Japantown at 1746 Post St. Two double-feature screenings (presented with dubbed English dialogue) are scheduled for 3:00pm and 8:00pm.

VIZ Media also invites Neon Alley members nationwide to catch back-to-back airings of BERSERK: THE GOLDEN AGE ARC I – THE EGG OF THE KING and BERSERK: THE GOLDEN AGE ARC II - THE BATTLE FOR DOLDREY taking place the same day at the same times – Saturday, May 11th – at 3:00pm and 8:00pm PST. More details and sign-up information are available at: www.neonalley.com.

Tickets to the NEW PEOPLE Cinema double-feature are $25.00 each and are available online at: http://www.newpeopleworld.com/films/films-5-2013/. A special galley exhibit featuring original BERSERK production art from Studio 4ºC will also be showcased in the theatre lobby. Upon arrival, each ticketholder will also receive an exclusive gift pack that features exclusive BERSERK promotional collectables including a tote bag, fan, beverage koozie, bookmarks, and more.

A variety of other exclusive BERSERK: THE GOLDEN AGE ARC memorabilia – including collectable figures, a special art book, cell phone charms, and Japanese theatrical pamphlets autographed by Studio 4ºC CEO Eiko Tanaka – will be given away to lucky winners who attend the screenings at the NEW PEOPLE Cinema premiere. Neon Alley viewers will also have a chance to watch and win one of 50 one-of-a-kind pieces of BERSERK: THE GOLDEN AGE ARC production art available exclusively during the premiere event. Please visit www.facebook.com/neonalleynetwork for more details on the special giveaway items. 

BERSERK: THE GOLDEN AGE ARC I – THE EGG OF THE KING follows lone mercenary Guts as he travels the land where a hundred-year-old war is taking place. His ferocity and ability to take down enemies attracts the attention of Griffith, leader of the mercenary group “The Band of the Hawk,” and Guts is recruited to the unit. Thanks to their continued victories on the battlefield, the bond between Guts and Griffith deepens, but despite all their success, Guts begins to question his reasons for fighting for Griffith’s dream. Unknown to Guts, this unyielding dream is about to bestow a horrible fate on them both.

BERSERK: THE GOLDEN AGE ARC II - THE BATTLE FOR DOLDREY picks up the story as Guts believed, for three years, that his mission was to pursue Griffith’s dream together with him. But in order to become Griffith’s equal and truly be called his friend, Guts realizes he will have to leave the Band of the Hawk. At the same time, a bloody battle to capture the impenetrable Fortress of Doldrey from the Empire of Chuder is about to begin. The Band of the Hawk will face an army 30,000 strong!
For more information on the BERSERK: THE GOLDEN AGE ARC film trilogy, please visit the official Facebook page at: www.facebook.com/BerserkFilm.

Inuyasha The Movie: The Complete Collection On Blu-Ray

VIZ Media brings the classic anime feature film action of INUYASHA home to fans across North America with the brand new release of the INUYASHA THE MOVIE: THE COMPLETE COLLECTION. The new 2-disc set is available now on Blu-ray, and contains 4 complete feature films from the venerable fantasy action adventure franchise, each rated TV-14, including INUYASHA THE MOVIE 1: AFFECTIONS TOUCHING ACROSS TIME, INUYASHA THE MOVIE 2: THE CASTLE BEYOND THE LOOKING GLASS, INUYASHA THE MOVIE 3: SWORDS OF AN HONORABLE RULER and INUYASHA THE MOVIE 4: FIRE ON THE MYSTIC ISLAND.

The INUYASHA MOVIE COLLECTION carries an MSRP of $29.99 U.S. / $37.48 CAN, and features bilingual language options including English dubbed as well as original Japanese audio with English subtitles. Bonus features include a production art gallery and the original theatrical trailers for each film.

The INUYASHA movies are based on Rumiko Takahashi’s highly successful manga about the adventures of a Kagome, a Japanese schoolgirl who is transported back in time to feudal era Japan, where she encounters and befriends Inuyasha, a half-demon boy. Together they battle against evil demons and make new friends and allies. In these four feature films, our heroes take on new challenges and battle strange foes. With their crew of demon-slaying friends, Kagome and Inuyasha will face the adventures of their lives! 

NURA: RISE OF THE YOKAI CLAN Coming April 2nd

VIZ Media will gives anime fans a new dose of supernatural anime action as it announces the upcoming DVD and Blu-ray release of NURA: RISE OF THE YOKAI CLAN on April 2nd.

The fantasy adventure series about a young man who is part human and part supernatural demon is rated TV-14 and will carry a DVD MSRP of $44.82 U.S. / $43.24 CAN and a Blu-ray MSRP of $54.97 U.S. / $66.15 CAN. The new 2-disc set features Episodes 1-13 presented with original Japanese (with English subtitles) and English dubbed dialogue options. DVD bonus features include production art and the official U.S. trailer. The Blu-ray edition features a color production art gallery, clean opening and the official U.S. trailer.

Rikuo Nura is an average middle school student by day and yokai (a supernatural demon) by night. He’s not just any yokai – he is the grandson of Nurarihyon, the Supreme Commander of the Nura clan! Rikuo wants to live a normal life. However, his grandfather wants him to succeed as the rightful heir. When an inter-clan conflict threatens the stability within their organization, Rikuo must decide whether he will live his life as a human or accept his yokai heritage.

“Anime fans everywhere are going to love the action-packed storyline of NURA: RISE OF THE YOKAI CLAN, which incorporates elements from Japanese mythology and updates them into a kinetic new supernatural adventure,” says Charlene Ingram, Sr. Marketing Manager, Animation. “The talented cast of top U.S. voice actors, including Kyle Hebert, Grant George, Mela Lee, and Darrel Guilbeau in the lead role of Rikuo Nura, really brings the action to life. Fans won’t want to miss the entire first season of this riveting anime series!”

The NURA: RISE OF THE YOKAI CLAN anime series (English-dubbed) is also featured on Neon Alley, VIZ Media’s 24/7 anime channel available for the PlayStation®Network and the PlayStation®3 (PS3™) system, and now also for the Xbox 360 and Xbox Live®.

NURA: RISE OF THE YOKAI CLAN is based on the bestselling NURA: RISE OF THE YOKAI CLAN manga series created by Hiroshi Shiibashi (rated ‘T’ for Teens; also published by VIZ Media’s Shonen Jump imprint). Hiroshi Shiibashi debuted in Japan in Business Jump magazine with the series, Aratama. NURA: RISE OF THE YOKAI CLAN is his breakout hit.