Manga publisher VIZ Media is launching a new impint, to be called VIZBIG Edition. VIZBIG will issue “omnibus editions of top-selling manga series in a larger 5-3/4 x 8-5/8 size (larger than the standard 5 x 7-1/2 manga) with special premium presentations including new cover art.” Their first scheduled book is Rurouni Kenshin, which has a publication date of 29 January. It will be followed, in May, by Dragon Ball and Dragon Ball Z, with Vagabond appearing in the Fall. Their plan is to put out a new $17.99 book each quarter. Each of the VIZBIG books “will contain the first three volumes of the original graphic novel series presented with larger trim size, bonus color pages, and added content such as author interviews, updated text, and character art.”
Rurouni Kenshin, created by Nobuhiro Watsuki, is the story of “the adventures of Himura Kenshin, a rurouni, or wandering samurai, who was once an assassin of ferocious power but now fights to protect the honor and safety of those in need.” It is set during the Meiji era of Japan during the 1800s, and has been adapted into an anime series, three films, and several novels.
Dragon Ball and Dragon Ball Z were created by Akira Toriyama. “With a unique blend of martial arts, science fiction, and memorable characters, they update the classic Chinese legend of the Monkey King. Dragon Ball follows the life of a monkey-tailed boy named Son Goku in a 16-volume series that has become one of the most successful manga properties ever created. Goku’s life changes when he meets a girl named Bulma and sets out to help her gather all seven Dragon Balls, which are scattered all over the world. If all seven are gathered, a powerful dragon will appear and grant one wish. The 26-volume series sequel, Dragon Ball Z, picks up when Goku has grown up. Earth’s ultimate warrior now has a son named Gohan who is even more powerful than his father. Together they use martial arts and other powers to battle time travelers, aliens, deities, and the mighty Super Saiyans to save the universe.”
Vagabond is “an action-packed portrayal of the life and times of the quintessential warrior-philosopher—the most celebrated samurai of all time! Striving for enlightenment by way of the sword, Miyamoto Musashi is prepared to cut down anyone who stands in his way.”