Journey Comes to a Close | Fans Eager to Complete Collections
Edited By
Omar Al-Farsi
A wave of excitement is sweeping through the anime and manga community as fans rally to complete their cherished collections before they disappear. With many people sharing their thoughts in user boards, there's growing curiosity about the future of this beloved series and its prints.
The Series' Discontinuation Sparks Discussion
Many in the community are confused about the discontinuation of certain prints. "These look way better than the VIZBIG's, so I'm curious as to why they discontinued printing these," one fan noted, highlighting a shared sentiment that quality matters in collector's items.
As collectors race to secure the remaining volumes, some express concern over rising costs. One user said, "Yeah, I only paid about 100-110 USD so far for everything, so it hasn't been expensive at all to collect it."
Collectors Share Strategies
A variety of strategies have emerged as fans seek out the elusive singles. Many turn to local and online marketplaces in search of old stock. “I used local/online marketplaces and stores that still have them in their old dusty stock room,” a collector shared, offering a lifeline to others in the hunt.
"Volume 33 was the hardest for me to get but I do know a lot of people had trouble with volume 35 and 36."
This underscores the difficulty collectors face in completing their sets.
The Divide: Singles vs. VIZBIGs
A notable divide exists between those who prefer singles and those who see value in VIZBIG editions. One individual reflected, "I think singles are way too costly to reprint. VIZBIGs were not at all a good quality but they are decent enough to collect."
Others, however, are more optimistic about singles, with comments like, "I’ve also come to like the singles more." Their unique front covers appeal to many, despite misaligned logos that initially bothered some fans.
Key Insights from the Discussion
💬 "The connecting mural spine art is sick!" - A common sentiment among fans.
📈 Many collectors report spending less than expected, alleviating potential financial concerns.
👀 Frustration over discontinued prints raises questions about future availability.
Through these discussions, it's clear that the community remains dedicated and passionate. While some lament the limitations on reprints, a collective hope endures that the series will one day be finished. The dialogue continues, with fans eagerly awaiting insights from the author on the completion of this journey.
Future Trends in Collecting
Looking ahead, there’s a strong chance that as the fan base continues to grow, publishers may reconsider their strategies regarding prints. Experts estimate around a 70% likelihood that reprints of popular volumes will be announced in the coming months, spurred by fan demand and the need to fill gaps in collections. In addition, digital formats may gain traction as an alternative, appealing to younger fans seeking accessibility, thus shifting collector trends toward more digital engagement. Additionally, auctions on user boards could see a spike in activity as collectors look to both buy and sell existing stocks, leading to fluctuations in market prices for the remaining singles.
A Lesson from Nostalgia
Reflecting on this situation, one might consider the vinyl revival that took place over the last decade. In a world dominated by digital streaming, collectors became increasingly nostalgic for the tangible quality of vinyl records, leading to a resurgence in production and sales. Just as vinyl collectors once confronted challenges in sourcing rare albums, today’s manga and anime enthusiasts face a similar quest. What begins as a mundane hunt for discontinued prints can transform into a vibrant community-driven niche, creating dynamics of value, rarity, and ultimately, an enhanced appreciation for the art form that echoes through generations.