SAIYUKI 101
What every Saiyuki admirer should know...
Saiyuki Manga:
Created by Minekura Kazuya, Gensomaden Saiyuki was first published in 1997-98 by Enix Company, with appearances in G-Fantasy [similiar to Young King Ours] magazine. It ended with nine volumes when she changed publishers [Zero-Sum]. Now it's known as the ongoing Saiyuki Reload... serialized in Zero-Sum. Volumes also available.
Saiyuki Gaiden, the prologue to the series, takes place 500 years before Saiyuki. Gaiden is set in Tenkai [Heaven]. We get a peek at Goku as a child, and his relationships with previous incarnations of Sanzo [Konzen], Hakkai [Tenpou], Gojyo [Kenren]. We also get to see Kanzeon Bosatsu [the 'Merciful Goddess'] on a regular basis. Saiyuki Gaiden is "ongoing" in installments.
Gensomaden Saiyuki manga is
currently available in the US, licensed TokyoPop. Treats include the original wraparound covers from the 2002 Zero-Sum editions, cultural notes & such. I adore the textures. They've done an
excellent job so far!
Saiyuki Anime:
The Saiyuki anime series was 50 episodes long [fun to watch!] and there's last year's series, Saiyuki Reload. The latest series, Saiyuki Reload Gunlock, was 26 episodes.
There are also two movies, Requiem [Loved it!] and Saiyuki: Kibou No Zaika. Both films fit into the canon of the first series' timeline.
Saiyuki [first series] is currently available in the US, licensed by ADV. They did a lovely job.
Saiyuki Reload is licensed by
Geneon, with a Feb 2005 release date.
Check SanzoExits for where to purchase Saiyuki-licious stuff.
Saiyuki Soundtracks:
Where do I begin? Delicious soundtracks, including vocal albums.
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