Delays in Manga Translations | Unpacking the Long Wait for Boruto Volume 3
Edited By
Aditi Sharma
As fans eagerly anticipate the arrival of Boruto Volume 3, which hit shelves in Japan in 2024 and won’t be available in English until November 2025, issues around translation delays have sparked new conversations within the anime and manga communities.
The License Puzzle
The crux of the problem seems to lie with the publishers that hold the licenses in different countries. For example, Planet Manga in Italy released Volume 3 over a month ago. In France, Kana has already made it available. On the other hand, Viz owns the rights in the U.S., where Volume 2 had a more recent release, and Germany's Carlsen Manga is set to launch Volume 2 next week.
"That’s because of the publisher in your country that holds the license for the Boruto manga," noted one forum poster. They highlighted that factors such as series popularity, revenue, and market dynamics play key roles in release timing.
Patience a Must
There’s a sense of shared frustration among fans. As one commenter put it, "I think there are several processes in the background that will be the cause. Patience is a gift." Although their sentiment suggests acceptance of the delays, the question on many minds remains: why does it take so long?
A Global Comparison
Manga translation times vary widely across regions, and the disparities clarify why some fans feel left behind. Key highlights include:
Italy: Volume 3 released for over a month
France: Kana's quick turnaround for Volume 3
Germany: Carlsen Manga set for Volume 2 release next week
This uneven distribution can lead to discontent, especially among loyal fans who are invested in the story's progression.
Community Sentiment
The comments on the forum reflect a mix of acceptance and frustration, highlighting a complex relationship between fans and publishers:
Positive: Many express gratitude for the manga's existence and ongoing translations.
Negative: Others voice dissatisfaction over the waiting period for English versions, feeling left out of the conversation.
"Isn’t it 'patience is a virtue'?" another comment threw in, adding a humorous touch to the discussion.
Key Points to Consider
📌 Volume 3 of Boruto dropped in Japan in 2024, but U.S. fans face a long wait.
📌 Publishers decide release timelines based on various factors.
🔄 "Patience is a gift," - reflects a common feeling among many fans.
📍 Expecting more updates on translation timelines as circumstances evolve.
What to Expect in Translation Timelines
There’s a strong chance that as the popularity of Boruto continues to spark interest, publishers will strategize to streamline translation processes moving forward. Given the frustrations shared by fans, industry insiders estimate that by late 2025, some companies may adopt more collaborative practices to speed up releases, possibly merging teams across regions. As markets change, we might see interactive forums, increased involvement from fans, and better transparency regarding release schedules, allowing people to engage more meaningfully with the content.
A Surprisingly Relevant Historical Analogy
Consider the rise of international thrillers in the publishing world decades ago. Just like today's delays in manga translations, readers craved the gripping narratives but faced long waits. Publishers at the time battled similar challenges with licensing and regional market demands, often leading to discontent. Over time, the industry adapted, employing faster distribution networks and innovative promotional strategies. This evolution mirrors today's situation in the manga world, hinting that greater collaboration and technology might soon change the way fans experience series like Boruto.