Satoshi Okunishi has been approved to construct a manga after the Netflix anime Yasuke. This news was first stated by the August Issue of Shokakukan’s Monthly Spirits magazine. This news comes as no surprise as the anime rendered a large fanbase both domestically and overseas. There is also a high chance of a follow-up to the first season along with the upcoming manga.
Okunishi, who is also known for other titles like A Certain Magical Index and Dororo, is the chief animation director of Yasuke. He also worked with Takeru Sato, who was the chief technical director. LeSean Thomas (better known for his work on The Boondocks) is the creator, director, and executive producer of Yaksuke. While many of these names already stand out to veteran animation fans, many were quick to take note that studio MAPPA (responsible for titles like Attack on Titan Season 4, Yuri!!! on Ice, and Kakegurui) was responsible for animating the series.
What is Yasuke?
The story’s protagonist is loosely based on the real-life historical figure Yasuke, who was a samurai of African origins. After he arrived in Japan, he served under Oda Nobunaga during Japan’s Warring States period in the 16th century.
The series specifically follows a retired Yasuke 20 years later who has to take up the sword one more time. He must transport and protect a mysterious child from dark forces named Saiki. Upon its release, Flying Lotus teased that the initial six episodes were only to serve as an “introduction to the world” and that “We have big plans for Yasuke.”
We hope these 6 episodes would serve as an introduction to this world and get you hype for more. We have big plans for Yasuke. It’s just the beginning. ⚔️?
— YASUKE (@flyinglotus) April 29, 2021
The anime itself has become a big name within the Black anime community, as it is one of the few titles to have a black character be the protagonist. With this pique in interest, many other Black animation creators have signed on and plan to release their own titles on both Netflix and Hulu.
The manga scheduled to release on July 27. Are you excited about the Yasuke anime being adapted to a manga? Let us know!