Press Release

He is the most dominant fighting game champion in the world. But before he was Japan’s first pro gamer, Daigo was one of many players battling their way through Japanese arcades during the golden age of fighting games. Now, North American fans can learn how the player became the legend as UDON Entertainment prepares to publish the DAIGO THE BEAST: UMEHARA FIGHTING GAMERS! manga series.

Daigo Umehara is best known for his aggressive play and nearly psychic ability to predict and counter his opponent's next move. This power not only paralyzes world-class opponents but has also led to many unforgettable comebacks from the brink of defeat. His many victories and bloodthirsty style have earned him the nickname "The Beast."

The DAIGO THE BEAST manga explores the real-life events that built the fighting game community, and the strategies and play styles developed by Daigo and his fellow gamers. In Volume 1, Shinya Ohnuki, a gamer with prodigious talent, is drawn into the wild and wonderful world of fighting games after a chance meeting with Daigo. As they face off in iconic games like Street Fighter II, Street Fighter Alpha, and Darkstalkers, an enduring rivalry between Daigo and "Nuki" is born!

DAIGO THE BEAST Volume 1 arrives in stores everywhere December 2017, but die-hard fighting game fans will have a chance to get the book early! UDON will be premiering the book at EVO 2017(Jul 14-16) the world’s largest fighting game event held in Las Vegas, NV. Those attending the event can head over to the UDON/NSURGO booth to be the first to purchase and read DAIGO THE BEAST: UMEHARA FIGHTING GAMERS!

DAIGO THE BEAST: UMEHARA FIGHTING GAMERS! Volume 1
DETAILS: 386pg, 5.75x8.25”, $19.99USD
RELEASE DATE: December 2017
ISBN: 978-1-77294-057-2