Takeru Hokazono, the rising star behind Kagurabachi, has quickly made a name for himself in the manga world. However, before his breakout success, he was just another kid captivated by one of Japan’s most iconic franchises Dragon Ball.
The Allure of Dragon Ball Heroes
Dragon Ball Heroes, an arcade game that blends collectible cards with action-packed gameplay, has been a staple for fans of the Dragon Ball franchise since its launch in 2010. The game allows players to create custom avatars and engage in battles featuring characters from across the Dragon Ball multiverse.
Its innovative mechanics and nostalgic appeal have made it a hit among fans, including Hokazono during his formative years. In a candid statement on Manga Plus, Hokazono revealed his childhood obsession with Dragon Ball Heroes, a card-based arcade game that has become a cultural phenomenon in Japan,
“I was one of those terrible kids who would ask his parents for cash as a birthday present”
Hokazono confessed,
“But what could I do? I was addicted to DB Heroes.”
For Hokazono, the game was more than just entertainment it was an inspiration. The dynamic battles and intricate character designs left a lasting impression on him, shaping his artistic vision and storytelling style.
This influence is evident in Kagurabachi, where intense action sequences and deeply personal motivations drive the narrative.
From Fan to Creator
Hokazono’s journey from Dragon Ball Heroes enthusiast to acclaimed mangaka highlights the profound impact of Akira Toriyama’s legendary franchise on modern creators.
Like many others, Hokazono grew up idolizing Toriyama’s work, which set the standard for shonen storytelling with its blend of high-stakes action, humor, and emotional depth. The influence of Dragon Ball is unmistakable in Hokazono’s own work, from the revenge-driven plot of Kagurabachi to its meticulously choreographed fight scenes.
In interviews, Hokazono has also credited other shonen giants like Naruto and Chainsaw Man as inspirations. However, his nostalgic connection to Dragon Ball Heroes adds a unique layer to his creative journey. The arcade game’s emphasis on strategy and character customization may have subtly informed Hokazono’s approach to crafting complex characters and intricate storylines.
In an interview, the editor disclosed that Hokazono’s passion for manga began with his childhood readings of Weekly Shonen Jump magazine.
His dream of becoming a manga artist was heavily influenced by Naruto, a manga he deeply admired. Hokazono’s Tezuka award-winning work, created when he was 19, along with his early one-shots, showed significant similarities to Masashi Kishimoto’s epic series. Imamura said in the interview,
“He just absolutely loves Naruto. If you take a look at his Tezuka award-winning piece and early one-shots, the influence is quite evident,” Imamura said in the interview.
A Testament to Dragon Ball’s Legacy
Hokazono’s admission underscores the enduring legacy of the Dragon Ball franchise. From its groundbreaking anime series to spin-offs like Dragon Ball Heroes, Toriyama’s creation continues to inspire new generations of artists and storytellers.
The franchise’s cultural impact is vast, influencing everything from manga and anime to video games and even Western media. For fans of both Kagurabachi and Dragon Ball, Hokazono’s story is a reminder of how beloved franchises can shape not just individual lives but entire creative industries.
As Hokazono continues to make waves with Kagurabachi, it’s clear that his childhood obsession with DB Heroes was more than just a phase, it was the spark that ignited his passion for storytelling.
In the end, Takeru Hokazono’s journey serves as both a tribute to the power of fandom and a testament to the transformative impact of Akira Toriyama’s timeless work.
Whether you’re battling it out in an arcade or flipping through the pages of Kagurabachi, one thing is certain: the spirit of Dragon Ball lives on.
