First of all, can you share a little bit about yourself?

I am Akiyama, the “Cardfight!! Vanguard” Producer in Japan.

I have always loved card games and I participated in the World Championship for Magic: The Gathering before!

Now, including online games, I am playing many different types of games.

In short, how would you describe what you do every day?

I am working on animations, cards, events and coming up with Vanguard-related promotions. I am also playing Vanguard every single day. (It’s my job!)

What is your favourite part of the job?

Although I am happy that my job is related to TCG which I loved, the best part of this job is that the response of the customers, with regards to every single card that we made, every single episode of the animation that we created, will directly come back to us. It feels really worthwhile.

So, have you been to any tournaments in other countries? How do you think international players are different from players in Japan?

Yes, I went for more than 10 times, I think. For Vanguard, I feel that in Japan, Vanguard is used more as a form of communication tool and people play it light-heartedly.

In comparison, international players play it more as a competitive game.

Of course, as either way is not wrong, I try to make my cards such that both types of players are able to enjoy.

What do you think is the most enjoyable part of Cardfight!!! Vanguard?

To play Vanguard, players will have to choose one “Clan” out of the 25 “Clans” to create their very own deck.

Having to choose is very important, as players will naturally feel attached to the deck that they created. In my opinion, it is that attachment that will drive players to continue Vanguard.

Which one is your favorite Cardfight!! Vanguard clan? Tell us about your play style and favorite cards too!

For now, it’s “Gear Chronicle”.

It may be Chrono’s clan, but as a card game, it is fun as there are many variations of moves that can be made and the level of freedom is high.

My favourite card is “Chronodragon Nextage”.

At the end when “Chronojet Dragon” stand and attack, it is the best. (and it’s strong!)

If you can challenge one character in the animation, who would like it to be?

Yuuichirou Kanzaki. I want to teach him that there is nothing wrong with being weak.

Lastly, could you have a word for all the Cardfight!! Vanguard fans around the world?

With the support from many fans, Vanguard has reached its 5th year.

And the happy thing is that Vanguard is not only played in Japan, it is also played by people from different countries.

However, I feel that there is still space for Vanguard to grow. For another 10 years, 20 years, I want to continue improving Vanguard. So please lend us the support till then!