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In 1997, Japanese comic artist Hisao Tamaki attempted to capture the spirit of Star Wars: Episode IV - A New Hope by reimagining the iconic motion picture through the unique lens of Japanese comics. The result was a daring and unforgettable retelling that ultimately earned Tamaki the esteemed Eisner Award for Best U.S. Edition of Foreign Material. Today, after almost 30 years, a deluxe crowdfunding initiative has been unveiled for The Art of Star Wars: A New Hope—The Manga, a lavish volume that showcases Tamaki’s initial, never-before-seen art boards.

Meticulously scanned and assembled, the initial artwork document the development of what is now considered a special piece of modern entertainment. Recalling the early days of the endeavor, Tamaki stated, “The editor inquired, ‘Are you interested to draw Star Wars?’ and with zero hesitation, I answered, ‘A New Hope? Definitely!’ I have to draw Star Wars.”

A standard version is set to arrive in Summer 2026, but enthusiasts can secure limited Kickstarter-only editions—and receive them before the retail release—by backing the project today. The book is available through the crowdfunding platform in multiple deluxe formats, such as:

1. A Premium Collector Set comes as a dual-book hardcover set featuring Tamaki’s artwork in exceptional detail, with a Kickstarter-exclusive design and a new translated text sourced straight from Tamaki’s original script. This version is perfect for fans wanting to experience the expert adaptation for the very first time, with the new translation included in the margins to maintain the authentic Japanese text. These volumes are produced using museum-grade paper to showcase Tamaki’s detailed linework and deep shading. While a retail version with a alternate design will be released in 2026, the Kickstarter-exclusive Collector Set includes exclusive designs marked by bold use of red and blue—a visual nod to the light and dark sides of the cosmic energy, plus extra features not available elsewhere.
2. The Collector’s Edition - Tamaki Variant is a minimalist, art-forward new take of the Collector’s Edition, limited to 260 sets.
3. The Collector’s Edition + Slipcase. A full two-book premium set, presented with a custom black protective case.
4. Deluxe Signed Collector’s Edition. A highly exclusive version of the premium collection—just 250 copies will be produced only for Kickstarter backers.
5. Masterpiece Collection is a large-format, high-end offering that accurately displays Hisao Tamaki’s initial art, with high-resolution reproductions of his untouched art at its original size—approximately 28 x 38 cm. Housed within a imitation leather clamshell case, the dual books of this edition are supplemented with a standalone 104-page guidebook that contains a new translation of the original Japanese text, which took inspiration from the alternate language dub of the movie that has been cherished by Japanese-speaking audiences for decades. The Masterpiece Edition format is only available through the campaign and will not see release for retail.
6. Autographed Masterpiece Set, a ultimate iteration of the Masterpiece Edition with extra refinements, limited to only 250 sets globally.
7. The Signed Darth Vader Masterpiece Edition (Limited to 25), the rarest version of the initiative, limited to merely 25 copies worldwide for supporters, combining the complete Masterpiece Edition with unique Sith Lord-themed features.

As part of the crowdfunding campaign, collectors can also acquire the Art Print Collection, a curated selection of half a dozen notable illustrations from Star Wars: A New Hope—The Manga. Though originally drawn in monochrome, every piece has been faithfully reproduced in vibrant hues, emphasizing each element—from pencil strokes and collage elements to production comments and even the time-worn appearance of the original material. For those looking for something more expansive, the campaign also includes the Three-Panel Art Portfolio, a oversized, triptych collection designed to match the size of the Masterpiece Edition and featuring two complete triptych print collections.

The regular version of The Art of Star Wars: A New Hope — The Manga is slated to arrive at comic shops and bookstores in summer 2026. However, supporters wanting to obtain campaign-only releases—and receive them ahead of the retail release—can do so by supporting the initiative.