A talk event was held on April 12^th(Thurs) at GUNDAM Café Akihabara in Tokyo. The event commemorated the release of the 16^thvolume of Mobile Suit Gundam MSV-R: The Return of Johnny Ridden, a currently popular serialization in Gundam Ace, and the 1^stvolume of Mobile Suit Gundam Twilight AXIS that is currently being published in the Monthly Young Magazine.

Ark Performance and Mr. Azusa Maxima appeared as guests at the event. The event was hosted by Mr. Zaizen, editor of The Return of Johnny Riddenat Gundam Ace, where talks of impressionable scenes and behind the scene production stories were revealed.

Unknown stories on the production of Dijeh were revealed as the red Dijeh piloted by Char Aznable plays an active role in the popular MSV-R: The Return of Johnny Riddenseries.

The Ark were conflicted on what mobile suit Char should pilot, but, after various discussions, settled on Dijeh as it would be “a mobile suit that was worthy of being piloted by Char without causing contradictions to the historical background of the series.” However, it seems as Rick Dijeh (tentative) it was decided that a booster and two shields would be equipped to the suit.

They spoke about their image of Char; the Char appears in the series is depicted as a sort of “fiend” that does not hesitate due to his goal of “being the best in everything in comparison to Amuro Ray”.

For that reason, he has become a calamity-like existence to some extent according to his character in The Return of Johnny Ridden.

▲ From the left, MC Mr. Zaizen, Mr. Mitsuyoshi and Mr. Ishikawa from Ark Performance, Mr. Maxima

They also spoke of their hopes of readers reading the series once more as there are scenes that will make them happy as fans with characters from The Plot to Assassinate Gihren and appearances from the members of the Chimera Corps. Additionally, they revealed with smiles that they have fun when drawing female characters as this is a series with many uncle-like characters.

Next, they moved onto a discussion on Sangre Azul. Ark said with deep emotion, “At first, this series had been scheduled to end at five volumes. It was from around that time that we had created the image of the scene where Sangre Azul goes into action, but the series was also popular which resulted in the series being extended until now. We’ll at last be able to depict this scene; it feels like we can finally see the goal.”

Ark explained the designs of Arlette, Danton, and the Fermo brothers during this portion of the event while looking at the character model sheets shown on the slides, “We were conscious of the fact that it needed to be a design that makes their features apparent even through a visor. We also kept in mind the “historical perspective” and thought it would be nice if the flavor of the Crossbone Vanguard appeared in their clothes and mobile suits.”

Mr. Maxima, who is responsible for adapting the series into a manga, stated, “I pay attention to the question of how much I can show of the models and settings that couldn’t be depicted in the anime. It’s also because I believe there are parts that the readers want as well.” He also enthusiastically exclaimed, “I’ll do even better from now on to draw (the manga)!”

At the question, “What is easier to draw? Tristan or Zaku III Custom? And which one do you like?” Ark stated, “The contrast in concept between both Gundam and Zaku is wonderful, so we love both. Moreover, it would be great for there to be a plot point planned for Amuro with ALEX, the base for Tristan, wouldn’t it?” Mr. Maxima also revealed his emotional attachment to the designs, “Gundam and Zaku both have design lines that we have become quite used to drawing in our generation, so both suits are easy to draw.”

Lastly, a rock-paper-scissors tournament was held for the autograph board presents before the talk event came to a close.

Ark Performance

“The Return of Johnny Riddenwill end in about three volumes. We hope that everyone thinks about the nameless plots that are being committed next. Together with the red pilot, we hope that you read to see what happens next. Thank you very much for coming today.”

Azusa Maxima

“Although Twilight AXISmay be a series we already know the conclusion of, there are several scenes and plots that we have yet to show you. I hope to continue working hard to continue the series even after Ark’s serialization is over and to draw with an elevated consistency. Thank you very much.”

Mobile Suit Gundam MSV-R: The Return of Johnny Riddenis available through KADOKAWA up to volume 16 while Mobile Suit Gundam Twilight AXISVolume 1 is available through Kodansha. Both series are current popular releases.

Definitely be sure to take this opportunity to read either series if you haven’t yet.

(Gundam.info Editorial Department)）

【Date】

2018.4.12

【Location】

Gundam Cafe Akihabara