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King of RPGs' Jason Thompson, Victor Hao Interviewed
posted on by Crystalyn Hodgkins
The About.com website has posted an interview with Jason Thompson, former editor of the Shonen Jump magazine and Eisner-nominated author of Manga: The Complete Guide, and animator/illustrator Victor Hao about their shōnen-manga inspired King of RPGs graphic novel. Del Rey will publish the graphic novel on January 19.
In the interview, Thompson and Hao talk about how their love of role-playing games and shonen manga led them to create King of RPGs. They also list the specific shōnen manga titles that influenced their work, and its "geek humor" and in-jokes which cater towards role-playing and manga fans. Thompson discussed why the King of RPGs evolved into something more action-oriented, and the reception the graphic novel might have with those not familiar with both console and tabletop role-playing games. Thompson and Hao also discussed the process of creating the novel and gave tips to aspiring artists.
The duo confirmed that a second volume is already in the works, with the script currently going through the finalization stage for a tentative release date of Spring 2011.
Thompson discussed the future of OEL or Original English Language manga, and said he hopes "readers will continue to seek out good creator-owned titles" such as Scott Pilgrim, Moyashimon and Oishinbo.
Image © Jason Thompson, Victor Hao
