Mr. Robert Woodhead , known as the original author of "Wizardry" , is the author of the Blu-ray "The Dagger of Kamui" of the anime "The Dagger of Kamui". We have started crowdfunding on Kickstarter (link) for ``Treasure Trove Edition''. In just 6 hours from the start, the target amount of $50,000 (approximately 7.25 million yen) was achieved (link), and as of 0:00 on August 27, 2024, the goal amount was $75,000 (approximately 10.9 million yen). We are collecting pledges (support) of ¥200,000. The project deadline is September 24th.


``Sword of Kamuy'' is an animated film based on the adventure novel by Toru Yano , released in 1985. The main character, Jiro, is raised as a ninja after being framed for the murder of his father, but he sets out on a journey to solve the mystery of his birth, carrying his father's dagger. The role of Jiro was played by actor Hiroyuki Sanada, which attracted a lot of attention, and the game was even made into an adventure game.


This Blu-ray has converted the original footage to HD and includes a newly recorded commentary by director Rintaro . An 8-inch (approximately 22 cm) x 11-inch (approximately 28 cm) art book will also be produced, containing all color art, setting images, storyboards, etc. It is a soft cover, but if there is a sufficient quantity ordered, it will be a hard cover. A digital archive of production materials will also be made available, including over 1,000 pages of storyboards and camera instructions. Crowdfunding pledges start at $40 (approximately 5,800 yen), and art books are included starting at $80 (approximately 11,600 yen). Delivery is possible to the United States, Canada, Europe, the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), Australia, and New Zealand.
Mr. Woodhead was one of the early developers of "Wizardry". It is a well-known story that the Mad King Trebor, who sends adventurers into the labyrinth, is his first name "Robert" spelled backwards.
He founded AnimEigo, which introduces Japanese anime overseas. His first work was released in 1988, the year after ``Wizardry #4 - The Return of Werdna'' was released. The circumstances surrounding this are detailed in the interview with Mr. Woodhead (related article) by
Ryo Morise
, so those who are interested should read it.
``Wizardry'' fans will be happy to know that Mr. Woodhead, who had a great influence on Japanese games, is still active in introducing Japanese anime. The ``Sword of Kamuy'' campaign has already reached its goal, and we are looking forward to his further activities.