The Japanese government announced that the legendary manga creator Go Nagai and the video game developer Yuji Horii have been recognized with the Order of the Rising Sunone of the most prestigious decorations in the country. Both were included in the list of 3,963 winners of the autumn edition of the recognition, which highlights exceptional cultural and artistic contributions.
Go Nagaiauthor of classics such as devilman, Mazinger Z, Cutie Honey and Getter Theftdebuted as a mangaka in 1967 with Meakashi Polikichi. His work defined entire genres within Japanese animation, from mecha to supernatural action. In recent years, Nagai has continued to publish new stories such as Devilman Saga and the autobiographical series Gekiman!focused on the creation of its most emblematic titles.
For its part, Yuji Horiiborn in 1954 in Hyogo, is recognized as the creator of Dragon Questone of the most influential JRPG franchises. Since the release of the first game in 1986, the series has sold more than 83 million copies worldwide and has become a cultural reference in Japan. In 1982, Horii won a programming contest organized by Enix, marking the beginning of his career. Last year, he also received an honor from Japan's Commissioner for Cultural Affairs.
A legacy that transcends generations
In a statement shared by his studio Dynamic ProductionNagai expressed his gratitude for the honor, noting that he has dedicated nearly six decades to manga since his childhood. He also noted that animated adaptations of his works have achieved popularity in more than 20 countriesconsolidating its international influence.
The official delivery ceremony will take place on November 11. It should be noted that, in 2023, the composer Joe Hisaishi (Spirited Away, My Neighbor Totoro) received the same recognition, underscoring the importance of art and entertainment in contemporary Japanese culture.
Which of the legacies of Go Nagai or Yuji Horii do you consider most influential in the history of Japanese entertainment?
