Comics publisher Mad Cave Studios has kicked off the news cycle for this weekend’s Anime NYC by becoming the latest comics publisher to expand into Asian comics with the launch of its own imprint.
This strategic expansion is marked by the launch of Nakama Pressan imprint that derives its name from the Japanese word for “colleague” and “friend.” This choice of name is a nod to the spirit of camaraderie and collaboration that the imprint embodies.
Nakama Press is setting out to be a beacon of diversity in the comics world. With a primary focus on Japanese manga, the imprint is not limiting itself to just one form of Asian comics. It is carving out a significant space for Chinese manhua, French manfra, and Korean manhwa. This inclusive approach is a testament to Mad Cave Studios’ commitment to catering to a wide array of tastes and preferences, ensuring that there’s something for everyone, regardless of age group or cultural background.
The imprint’s ambition goes beyond just publishing a variety of titles. It aims to become a platform that showcases the best of indie creators, providing them with the recognition and audience they deserve. By name-dropping prestigious studios like Japan’s Tatsunoko Production and Italy’s Rainbow GroupNakama Press is signaling its intent to forge partnerships with established names in the industry, thereby blending the new and the traditional in a unique take on graphic storytelling.
For those eager to dive deeper into the world of Nakama Press, Anime NYC 2024 is the place to be. The ‘Manga-Inspired Graphic Novels with Mad Cave‘ panel promises to be a treasure trove of information, with Nakama Press senior editor Kristen Simon and Mad Cave director of marketing Allison Pond slated to discuss the imprint’s launch, its detailed vision, and the overarching goals that will guide its journey in the comics landscape , with the first titles to be released in Summer of 2025.
As the clock ticks down to 6PM in Room 5 on Saturday, August 24th, anticipation builds for what is sure to be an enlightening session. The panel is not just an opportunity to learn about Nakama Press; It’s a chance to witness the unfolding of a new chapter in the world of comics, one that celebrates diversity, embraces creativity, and honors the timeless bond between storytellers and their audience. Mad Cave Studios, with the birth of Nakama Press, is poised to redefine what it means to be a publisher in the ever-evolving business of manga and manga-inspired graphic novels.
