Abenobashi Mahou Shoutengai ~Abeno Machi ni Inori wo Komete~

Abenobashi Mahou Shoutengai ~Abeno Machi ni Inori wo Komete~ was released in 2002 to accompany the Gainax and Madhouse anime series directed by Hiroyuki Yamaga. This volume serves as an artistic companion piece, bridging the gap between the chaotic, genre-hopping narrative of the anime and the distinct, nostalgic aesthetic of the setting. It was conceived as a way to flesh out the lore of the Abenobashi shopping arcade, a location deeply rooted in the retro atmosphere of post-war Osaka.

The illustrations were provided by Kenji Tsuruta, an artist celebrated for his detailed, atmospheric line work and his ability to capture a sense of wistful melancholy. Tsuruta’s contributions sought to ground the surreal, fantastical elements of the story within the tangible reality of the arcade's urban environment. Upon its release, the volume was well-received by fans of the series for its high-quality production and Tsuruta’s evocative character designs, which offered a more introspective look at the protagonists than the high-energy animation allowed.