Tokyo, Japan – In a move that has sent ripples through the manga community, legendary mangaka Rumiko Takahashi, the creative force behind iconic series such as Inuyasha and Ranma 1/2, has publicly endorsed the new manga Cosmos. This endorsement comes from Ryuhei Tamura, the creator best known for his hit series Beelzebub, and is featured on the obi (a strip of paper wrapped around the cover) of the fifth volume of Cosmos.
A Powerful Recommendation
Takahashi’s recommendation carries significant weight in the manga world. Her decades of experience and the enduring popularity of her works have solidified her position as a respected and influential figure. Her nod of approval for Cosmos is not just a casual comment; it’s a strong signal to fans that this new series is worth checking out. Previous volumes of Cosmos have also featured endorsements from other prominent mangaka, including Hiromu Arakawa (Fullmetal Alchemist), Tite Kubo (Bleach), and Kazuhiro Fujita (Ushio to Tora).
The impact of such endorsements can be substantial. As seen recently, when the manga Frieren received a recommendation, a reprint was quickly announced. Takahashi’s recommendation is expected to boost the popularity and sales of Cosmos, drawing in her large fanbase, who will be eager to explore a manga she has deemed noteworthy. It’s anticipated that Takahashi might also promote Cosmos through social media when the fifth volume officially drops on January 17, 2025.
What did Takahashi say about Cosmos?
According to Comic Natalie, Takahashi’s message on the obi reads: “This is a story about daily life in a surreal world. It’s real, cool, and interesting at the same time.” This brief but evocative description hints at the unique blend of elements that Tamura is bringing to Cosmos.
Cosmos: A Sci-Fi Twist from the Creator of Beelzebub
Cosmos, which debuted in the monthly magazine Sunday Gene-X in 2023, is a departure from Tamura’s previous works which often blended supernatural elements with comedy. Beelzebub, for example, is known for its over-the-top humor and demonic themes. While Cosmos still features a high school setting, it leans heavily into science fiction, with a focus on aliens and their interactions with humans.
The Premise
The story centers on a high school student named Kaede Mizumori, who has the unusual ability to see through people’s lies. Despite this, Kaede lives a rather unremarkable life, avoiding any kind of trouble. Her life takes an unexpected turn when she encounters a mysterious high schooler named Rin Homura. Adding to the intrigue, Rin is an alien working for an insurance company that deals with extraterrestrial claims.
A Blend of Genres
Cosmos promises a blend of humor, action, and mystery. Tamura’s established knack for creating dynamic characters and engaging storylines suggests that Cosmos will offer a unique and exciting reading experience. The manga’s teaser had initially described the story as “about an alien and _“, intentionally covering the second word and leaving fans to speculate about the narrative’s direction. The premise of a high schooler working alongside an alien in an insurance company provides a fertile ground for comedic and dramatic situations.
Ryuhei Tamura: A Manga Mastermind
Ryuhei Tamura is a celebrated mangaka known for his distinct style and ability to weave intricate plots. Beyond Beelzebub, he is also known for creating Hard-Boiled Cop and Dolphin, Hungry Marie, and Pyramid no Himitsu. Each of these series showcases his versatility and creative range. His works often feature quirky characters, fast-paced action, and a good dose of humor. Cosmos continues this trend by introducing a fascinating set of protagonists in a uniquely compelling setting.
Tamura’s unique style
Tamura is known for his dynamic art style, which perfectly complements the energy of his stories. His character designs are often expressive and memorable, which adds a unique charm to his work. Cosmos, while different in tone and theme than Beelzebub, still retains his signature visual flair. This will appeal to long-time fans while drawing in new readers intrigued by his shift in genre.
US Release and Availability
For fans in the United States, there’s good news. VIZ Media has licensed Cosmos, and the first volume is expected to be released sometime this year. This accessibility will allow a wider audience to enjoy Tamura’s latest creation and see for themselves why Rumiko Takahashi and other manga legends are singing its praises.
Rumiko Takahashi: A Legacy of Excellence
Rumiko Takahashi is one of the most influential mangaka of all time. Her career spans decades, and her work has had a significant impact on the manga and anime industry. Some of her most popular works include:
- Urusei Yatsura: A comedic series that became a cult hit. The manga follows the hapless Ataru Moroboshi, who becomes entangled with an alien princess named Lum. It has inspired multiple anime adaptations, including the recent 2022 version.
- Maison Ikkoku: Aimed at an older audience, this series presents a grounded story about the eccentric tenants of an apartment building. The story focuses on Yusaku Godai as he navigates love and life.
- Ranma 1/2: This action-comedy follows Ranma Saotome, a martial artist who transforms into a girl when splashed with cold water. It is known for its fast-paced action, quirky characters, and slapstick humor.
- Inuyasha: A historical fantasy adventure where a modern-day girl, Kagome, travels back in time to feudal Japan and joins forces with a half-demon named Inuyasha. It is one of her most beloved and widely recognized works.
- Mermaid Saga: A horror series which showcases Takahashi’s versatility by exploring dark and unsettling themes, a departure from her comedic roots.
- RIN-NE: A series that blends supernatural elements with high school life.
Takahashi has received numerous accolades throughout her career, including being inducted into the Will Eisner Comic Awards Hall of Fame in 2018. Her storytelling prowess and ability to create relatable and memorable characters have solidified her place as a true legend in the world of manga.
Anticipation Builds
The combination of Rumiko Takahashi’s recommendation and the creative talent of Ryuhei Tamura has generated considerable buzz around Cosmos. Manga fans around the world are eagerly awaiting the opportunity to read this intriguing new series. The blend of science fiction, high school life, and the unusual premise promises a story that will stand out in the current manga landscape. As the release date for the fifth volume in Japan approaches, and with the US release on the horizon, the manga community waits with anticipation. Will Cosmos live up to the hype? Only time will tell, but with endorsements from legendary creators, it certainly has a promising start.
