Anime Expo 2023: Unveiling the Legendary Yūsuke Kozaki – The Mastermind Behind Pokémon Go, Tekken 7, and More!
Prepare to be captivated at this year’s Anime Expo convention, as the curtains rise to reveal an extraordinary guest of honor – none other than the illustrious illustrator and character designer, Yūsuke Kozaki! Renowned for his exceptional work in the gaming realm, Kozaki has crafted mesmerizing character designs for acclaimed titles like Pokémon Go, Tekken 7, Xenoblade Chronicles 2, Fire Emblem Fates, Fire Emblem Heroes, Fire Emblem: Awakening, No More Heroes, No More Heroes 2: Desperate Struggle, and Super Smash Bros.
But his talents extend far beyond the gaming industry. Kozaki’s visionary touch has also graced the realm of anime, leaving an indelible mark on esteemed series and films such as Speed Grapher, the awe-inspiring Godzilla: Planet of the Monsters and Godzilla: The Planet Eater movies, and most recently, the groundbreaking original anime creation by Goro Taniguchi (the genius behind Code Geass, Planetes, and Back Arrow) – Estab-Life: Great Escape, which took the world by storm when it premiered in April 2022.
Kozaki’s artistic journey began with the release of his captivating manga, Donyatsu, which debuted in Square Enix’s Young Gangan magazine in December 2011. The series amassed a devoted following, leading to Square Enix publishing the fifth compiled book volume in April 2015. Notably, Donyatsu’s enchanting narrative inspired a series of anime shorts that delighted fans worldwide in 2013.
Mark your calendars for the grand return of Anime Expo, set to sweep Los Angeles off its feet from July 1-4 this year. As a testament to their commitment to enhancing the convention experience, Anime Expo has made an exciting change by discontinuing its Premier Fan Badge system, promising an even more inclusive and electrifying event for all attendees.
Prepare to immerse yourself in the brilliance of Yūsuke Kozaki’s creative genius at Anime Expo 2023 – a gathering that promises unforgettable moments, unbridled inspiration, and a celebration of the boundless magic that anime and gaming hold.
