Famitsu Announces Educational Manga on Masahiro Sakurai, Creator of Super Smash Bros.

Famitsu, the renowned Japanese gaming magazine and media outlet, has revealed plans for a new educational manga focused on Masahiro Sakurai, the visionary game creator behind the acclaimed Super Smash Bros.

series and Kirby franchise.

The manga, officially slated for release on November 18, 2025, is titled (roughly translated) “The People and Jobs You Learn Through Manga: Masahiro Sakurai – Making the World More Fun with Games.” This special edition manga aims to provide readers with in-depth insight into Sakurai’s storied career and creative philosophy, presenting his journey in a format that’s engaging and accessible to both gaming enthusiasts and newcomers interested in game development.

Notably, the manga is being produced under Sakurai’s direct supervision, ensuring accuracy and authenticity throughout its pages. In a statement provided by Famitsu, the publication described the manga as a comprehensive “life story,” highlighting significant milestones in Sakurai’s professional and personal life.

The manga promises behind-the-scenes anecdotes from Sakurai’s work on flagship titles such as Kirby and Super Smash Bros., games that have become integral to Nintendo’s success and have sold millions of copies worldwide.

Readers can expect illuminating details about the creation of these iconic franchises, alongside a timeline charting the pivotal moments of Sakurai’s career. Masahiro Sakurai, whose innovative approach has left an indelible mark on the industry, is often celebrated for his contributions to multiplayer gaming and his ability to craft accessible yet deeply strategic games.

The manga will delve into untold stories from Sakurai’s time at HAL Laboratory, his role in the early days of Kirby on the Nintendo Game Boy, and his later work on the Super Smash Bros.

series, which has seen releases across multiple platforms, including the Nintendo Switch.

These behind-the-curtain glimpses aim to both educate and inspire readers about the realities of game development. Famitsu emphasized that the manga will appeal to a broad audience, especially those interested in the people who drive the gaming industry forward.

The book is tailored as part of an educational initiative, perfect for students and aspiring game developers who want to better understand not just Sakurai’s achievements, but the challenges and opportunities within the world of Japanese game design. The upcoming manga serves as both a tribute to Masahiro Sakurai’s legacy and a resource for anyone passionate about the art of making games.

With its November 18, 2025 release date, fans can look forward to exploring the life of one of Nintendo’s most influential creatives through a new, illustrated lens.

More information and updates will be available through Famitsu’s official channels and the publisher’s website.

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