The Inside Scoop: Exclusively Interviewing Mike Montesa, the Mastermind Behind Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess Manga

Highlights

The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess manga is now digitally available after initially being released only in physical print copies.

The manga delves into a more serious and ominous atmosphere, distinguishing itself from previous Zelda manga adaptations, as it tackles profound subjects of ethics and mortality.

Catering to fans of all ages, the manga offers a heightened experience by delving into the intricacies of character growth and motivations that surpass the confines of the game.

The manga adaptation of The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess is based on the 2006 videogame and has recently been digitally released for the first time. Prior to this, the manga was exclusively available in physical print copies. Following its digital release, GameRant had the chance to interview Mike Montesa, Senior Editor at VIZ Media, to discuss his thoughts on the series, his work, and other topics.

Q: How did you first come to meet the authors, Akira Himekawa?

Montesa: The editors at VIZ Media have limited communication with Japanese creators, unless they attend conventions as guests. I had the pleasure of meeting Akira Himekawa, a talented duo, at Anime Expo in 2016. Later, I crossed paths with them again at New York Comic Con in 2017 and London Comic Con in 2019, just before the pandemic.

Q: You have edited several popular titles, such as Black Lagoon and My Hero Academia. What attracts you to the series you work on?

Montesa: Sometimes we are given specific series to work on, while other times we have the opportunity to express our preferences. During our acquisitions meetings, there are instances when we already know what titles are up for grabs. They will inquire if anyone is interested in working on a particular series, and we can volunteer (laughs). For example, when I first started at VIZ, Black Lagoon was assigned to me as my very first series from Volume 1. I had no idea what to expect, but I'm grateful I took it on because it became one of my all-time favorites. As for The Legend of Zelda, I had been aware of it for a while, and when I had the chance to work on it, I was excited. So, sometimes we have the privilege of choosing, and other times we are assigned, but overall, I am content with the projects I am involved in.

Q: Can we assume that you selected Twilight Princess?

Montesa: Hmm, let me think... Yes, that's right. I was involved in the production of the first Legend of Zelda series that we released sometime between 2008 and 2009. It consisted of 10 volumes, each featuring stories based on different Legend of Zelda games such as Ocarina of Time. Although my memory fails me when it comes to the specific titles of the others, I believe there were around four or five volumes dedicated to different games. Unlike Twilight Princess, which focused solely on one story, these volumes offered a diverse range of content. It was a fascinating experience, and I thoroughly enjoyed working on them.

Q: It seems to be commonly accepted that Twilight Princess is one of the darker additions to The Legend of Zelda game series. Would you agree with this notion, and if so, what do you think contributes to that perspective?

Montesa: To be honest, I can't comment on the game's tone, but I can say that the manga is slightly more serious and darker compared to earlier entries in the Zelda manga series. From conversations with the creators, I've learned that they always aim to highlight the unique and different aspects of each Zelda project in their manga adaptations.

For Twilight Princess, they wanted to delve into Link's character development as a more mature individual. In previous manga adaptations, Link was portrayed as more youthful or even a child, but in Twilight Princess, he is depicted as an older teenager on the path to maturity, though not quite an adult. The themes explored in the Twilight Princess manga were also more mature, touching on subjects like morality and death. Link even engages in existential conversations with himself on occasion (chuckles). Overall, the tone of Twilight Princess manga had a darker undertone compared to its predecessors.

Q: That leads us into the next question; what demographic, if any specific one at all, do you think would best resonate with Twilight Princess?

Montesa: It's quite difficult to answer that question. Zelda, as an intellectual property, has been around for decades. It has appeal across generations, from those who played the game in the late 80s and early 90s to the present day. Personally, I remember it from back then, and I'm no longer young! (laughs)

In general, manga attracts a younger audience, particularly middle school and high school students. However, true manga fans continue to enjoy it into adulthood, even beyond college and into their later years. Currently, the main demographic for this manga would be teenagers and such. However, I believe that anyone who is a fan of Legend of Zelda, regardless of age, will find something they enjoy if they read the manga, especially if they explore the older series based on the games they loved playing in their younger days.

Q: What aspect of the manga did you enjoy the most in Twilight Princess?

Montesa: What I really liked about it is how it takes the game to a whole new level. It adds more layers to the story and the characters. Unlike most Zelda games where Link remains silent, Twilight Princess has extensive dialogue, allowing for greater character development and focus on specific individuals. It delves deeper into the motivations of the characters, with Link engaging in thought-provoking existential conversations. Additionally, I must mention Akira Himekawa's exceptional artwork, especially in Twilight Princess where the more realistic style truly captivated me.

Q: Did the previous installment draw inspiration from various games in the series? Do you think the authors will treat recent videogame installments like Breath of the Wild or Tears of the Kingdom in the same manner?

Montesa: That's a commonly asked question! (laughs) I don't have any inside information on their plans for that. Adapting Breath of the Wild seems like an obvious choice, but it ultimately depends on whether Akira Himekawa is interested. The Zelda series has been their most successful work in the past couple of decades, so it wouldn't surprise me if they decide to explore it further. However, artists also like to venture into new projects, so they may have other ideas. Nonetheless, we should never rule out the possibility.

Q: Now, about you. What is your biggest inspiration?

Montesa: It's difficult to pinpoint just one (laughs). In my life, Japan has been an immense source of inspiration. Having resided there for an extended period and having a strong network of friends and family there, it has motivated me to wholeheartedly embrace exploration and connecting with diverse individuals. Life is an amalgamation of manifold experiences, and my aim is to amass as many as possible!

Q: Throughout your career, you have undertaken numerous translation projects. Which project holds the fondest place in your heart upon reflection?

Mike Montesa, an editor at VIZ Media, has worked on several popular titles, such as Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba and Fist of the North Star.

The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess manga is available on the VIZ website.