Author and artist Rumiko Takahashi, the world's most popular and prolific female manga creator, has a large, devoted international fan base. Over 100 million copies of her work, such as "Urusei Yatsura", "Maison Ikkoku", "Ranma 1/2" and "Mermaid Saga" - all available from VIZ Media - have been sold worldwide. Takahashi's works have been the basis for four long-running animated series and over eight animated movies.
Q: “Inuyasha: Secret of the Divine Jewel” based on your work is going to be released in North America. What do you think about this?
A: I am very much looking forward to seeing the results since this was a game developed in the US.
Q: Are you interested in video games? What’s your favorite game?
A: In the past, I used to be hooked on the Final Fantasy series and Chocobo’s Dungeon 1 and 2. I also like to play games based on my own work, but I try to play in moderation, to the extend where my eyes don’t get tired.
Q: What’s your favorite series or character based on your work?
A: I always put 100% of my effort into my work, so in the meantime, my favorite series is Inuyasha.
Q: Several games based on your work have been released. Do you have any thoughts on this?
A: I am truly pleased and honored by this.
Q: Inuyasha is also popular abroad. What kind of storyline are you planning for the future?
A: We are currently approaching the fight with Naraku in the story. The future of Inuyasha and Kagome is still undecided at this point. I usually leave it up to the feelings of the character as I’m drawing to decide what will come next.
Q: Your work has been ported to animation, videogames, etc. and also highly regarded aboard. What do you think about this?
A: I am so happy to see that fans from all over the world are able to enjoy my work in so many shapes and forms.
Q: Do you have any messages that you would like to say to fans in the U.S.?
A: Thank you for your support with Inuyasha. In the past, I’ve attended the convention in San Diego twice where I was able to meet with my fans. That has been such a memorable and exciting experience for me. I hope you will continue to enjoy and support my work.