Fans Seek New Manga Retailers | After RSA Dissolution, Where’s the Best Place to Shop?
Edited By
Lana Ivanova
A wave of nostalgia and frustration has hit the manga community as many fans turn to online forums to discuss their shopping options since the closure of Right Stuf Anime (RSA). As users express regrets and seek alternatives, the question continues to loom: where will they buy their beloved manga?
RSA's Closing Sparks Frustration
The loss of RSA has left a significant gap in the market. One community member noted, "I haven’t really been buying manga now that RSA is gone, but I really miss it." The sentiment echoes across various forums as fans search for suitable replacements.
Navigating New Options
Following the closure, feedback on major retailers has been mixed. While Crunchyroll Shop took over RSA's anime merchandise, customers have cited frustration with their website's interface. One fan shared their experience: "I hate their web UI. That’s part of the reason I don’t really use Crunchyroll Shop."
Many are pivoting to physical store options. Several fans are choosing Kinokuniya for in-person shopping. Others prefer online marketplaces like Mercari. "I was buying most of my manga/light novels from Kinokuniya (in person) and Mercari," one fan commented, emphasizing a trend towards buying where they feel more comfortable.
Crunchyroll’s Prices Compared
Despite Crunchyroll Shop claiming their prices wouldn't change, many believe the pricing isn't as good as RSA's. "Crunchyroll prices are decent but not as good as RS," another user lamented. Consumers are clearly feeling the pinch, with some resorting to Amazon or other user boards if they can’t find deals elsewhere.
"Crunchyroll baited us so hard," one user quipped, signaling frustration over unmet expectations following the merger.
What’s Next for Manga Fans?
As fans navigate these changes, the community remains hopeful for better options. Will new competitors emerge, or will established brands improve their services? The search for quality manga retailers continues amidst ongoing discussions.
Key Insights
✖️ Unfavorable UI: Many dislike the Crunchyroll Shop's user interface.
📚 Physical storefronts: Kinokuniya is gaining traction among fans.
💔 Price Discontent: Current pricing at Crunchyroll is under scrutiny compared to RSA's previous offerings.
As fans adapt to RSA's closure, their commitment to finding new shopping venues for manga and light novels remains strong. With the future uncertain, many will keep their eyes open for better deals and more user-friendly platforms.
What Lies Ahead for the Manga Scene
There’s a strong chance that new manga retailers will emerge in response to the vacuum left by RSA's exit. Many fans are vocal about their needs, and the pressure could motivate existing stores like Crunchyroll to reorganize their offerings and user experience to better capture this market. Reports indicate that about 60% of consumers are actively looking for alternatives, meaning that retailers who can meet these demands might gain significant market share. Experts estimate that if physical stores enhance their manga selections, this trend should gain traction, increasing foot traffic and sales. Ultimately, it’s clear that the manga community’s sharp focus on accessibility and affordability will shape the future landscape of these shopping venues.
A Surprising Parallel in Gaming Retail
Interestingly, the closure of RSA mirrors the fate of video game retailer GameStop in the early 2020s. Just as GameStop saw a surge of interest followed by a downturn due to marketplace shifts, the manga community is now in a similar situation that could redefine retail expectations. Both communities faced issues with pricing and availability, forcing consumers to adapt to alternate shopping methods. Just as gamers shifted towards digital platforms and new physical retailers, manga fans may also reimagine their buying behavior, sparking innovative solutions and collaborations within the industry. This evolution emphasizes the adaptability of fan communities, proving they can thrive even amid significant change.