Mad Cave Studios, now celebrating 10 years, continues to expand its wide-ranging library of graphic novels and comics. Nakama Press is a new imprint focused on manga and other international offshoots of the art form, including manhwa, manfra, and manhua. Allison Pond, director of marketing for Mad Cave, spoke with PW about how Nakama taps into the growing popularity of manga worldwide while honoring the form's traditions and supporting emerging artists.
What made you decide to launch Nakama Press?
As we looked at the landscape of graphic storytelling, we noticed a growing appetite for manga and manga-inspired content in the American market. At Mad Cave, we’ve always been committed to delivering compelling stories and pushing the boundaries of the medium. Nakama Press was born out of a desire to extend that mission of translating the world of manga, manhwa, manfra, and manhua from East to West. We see endless possibilities for storytelling, innovation, and reaching new audiences. Nakama, which means "friends" or "comrades" in Japanese, represents the community and shared passion we want to build around this imprint, publishing stories that resonate globally.
How is Mad Cave reaching out to discover new manga artists?
We’re taking a multifaceted approach to discovering new talent. Mark Irwin, our president, dedicated significant portions of the past few years to traveling extensively in order to connect with creators and partners for the start of Nakama Press. We've established strong connections with artists and creators both domestically and internationally and are actively engaging with creative communities online and in person. We're also partnering with existing licensed partners from some of our other imprints and have been in discussions with new partners that we’re positive readers will be excited about as they’re revealed. Our goal is to create a space where talented storytellers can thrive and have a platform to bring unique stories and perspectives to readers.
Is there a growing audience for manga, manhwa, manfra, and manhua in America?
Absolutely. The audience for manga and its related forms is not only growing but diversifying. We’re seeing more readers from different backgrounds and age groups, all eager to explore the richness of these art forms. Digital platforms and the increased availability of translated works have played a significant role in expanding access, and we believe this trend will continue as more people discover the depth and variety that manga, manhwa, manfra, and manhua offer.
Is Nakama offering entirely original content, or are you publishing new chapters in previously established series?
Nakama Press is focusing on a mix of both. We’re incredibly excited to bring new, original stories to life, showcasing fresh talent and narratives that haven’t been seen before. At the same time, we’re honored to work with established properties, like the upcoming releases with Tatsunoko Production’s *INFINI-T FORCE* next year, among others, to introduce these beloved series to new audiences or bring them to the next stage of their journey. This balance allows us to celebrate the past while innovating for the future.
Manga has an amazingly rich history. How do you plan to both celebrate the art form's legacy while also inviting innovation?
We deeply respect the traditions and history that have made manga what it is today. Nakama Press aims to honor this legacy by ensuring that every story we publish reflects the high standards and creative spirit that have defined manga for decades. At the same time, we’re committed to pushing boundaries by exploring new genres, narrative styles, and artistic approaches. Our goal is to create a dialogue between the past and the future, where timeless storytelling techniques meet cutting-edge innovation.
Are we in a new manga golden age?
It certainly feels like it. With the surge in manga’s popularity across the globe and the incredible diversity of content being produced, there’s a renewed energy in the industry that’s reminiscent of past golden ages. What’s different now is the level of accessibility—more people than ever are reading manga, thanks to digital platforms and international licensing. This global reach is fueling a creative renaissance, and Nakama Press is thrilled to be part of this vibrant era.
What can you share about your new partnerships with studios like Tatsunoko Production and Rainbow Group?
We’re incredibly excited about our partnerships with these iconic studios. Collaborating with Tatsunoko Production, for example, on *INFINI-T FORCE* is a dream come true. Their legacy in the industry is unparalleled, and we’re honored to bring their stories to an English-speaking audience through Nakama Press. These partnerships allow us to offer a blend of classic and contemporary content, providing our readers with a rich tapestry of stories that span generations. We’re committed to maintaining the integrity of these beloved franchises while also exploring new ways to engage with fans.
From your perspective, what makes manga and other graphic storytelling so powerful and enduring?
Manga and graphic storytelling, in general, have a unique ability to convey complex emotions, ideas, and narratives in a way that is both accessible and profound. The combination of visual art and written word allows for a depth of storytelling that can be both immersive and intimate. Whether it’s a high-energy battle scene or a quiet moment of introspection, these stories resonate on a deeply human level. They’re also incredibly versatile, capable of exploring any genre, theme, or idea. This flexibility, combined with the universal appeal of visual storytelling, is what makes manga so powerful and enduring. It’s a medium that constantly evolves while staying true to its core of engaging and moving its audience.
