Tuesday, 10 June 2025
DECEMBER 1985
1985 DECEMBER
ROBOTECH's MACROSS MAIL
1547 DEKALB ST. NORRISTOWN, PA 19401
ROBOTECH THE MACROSS SAGA #8 December 1985.
To the artists of ROBOTECH THE MACROSS SAGA,
Thank you for the exceptionally great job that you did on issue #5. Everyone on the staff deserves a hearty congratulations.
Dave Johnson, who did the pencils, and Jeff Dee, who laid down the inks, are incredibly talented and have big fu- tures ahead of them in the comics indus- try. One particularly good trait found in this issue is the great attention paid to facial and body gestures. Each charac- ter has a definite personality which stands alone, even without their dialogue. The artwork transcends the pages that it is printed on. There is a special magic about it.
A lot of the credit for this magic must go to Tom Vincent, who gave this comic its wonderful colors. It's very apparent that Tom began to experiment with his Crayolas when he was just a wee tyke. The colored shadowing is wonderful. Many colorists can turn a brightly col- ored page into an almost deadly rainbow - Tom has turned them into masterpieces.
Special thanks must also go to your letterer, L. Lois Buhalis. The people who letter comic books only seem to be singled out for attention when their sen- tences appear to have been rammed by a Zentraedi warship. In this case, however, Lois deserves a lot of credit for her smooth style of lettering as well as her incredibly straight lines. This might sound odd, or even trivial, but anyone who has ever tried their hand at comic book lettering is very aware of the difficulties involved.
I don't give my praise to comic art lightly; this is obvious in a previous letter of mine which found its way into the letters column of issue #5. The creative team on this issue really has "put their heart and soul into it." The integrity of this spectacular Japanese series is translated very well into this issue of the series. What you are doing is far from an easy job, but you make it look easy. Magic.
Pure magic!!!
Sincerely yours,
Dan Cherney Cleveland, OH
[Editor's reply;
"Glad to hear that you're a little happier with our current artistic efforts, Dan. On behalf of everyone involved, let me thank you for your kind words. And remember: Magic is green. (Oops wrong book!)"]
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Dear Comico,
After considering how hard it must be to adapt animation, I must say that everyone involved with your ROBOTECH comics is doing a splendid job. ROBOTECH THE MACROSS SAGA #5 was generally magnificent, albeit a little hurried-looking. Exedore and Breetai could have been better, but the humans were drawn well most of the time. The way page 6 flowed into page 7 was nice more effects like this, please. Dave Johnson's pencils and Jeff Dee's inks must have been made for each other, and Jack Herman's not-too-wordy script really helps. Please let him be the regular writer.
My suggestions for the future might be to start off each issue the way the TV show does, with a brief recap of what happened in the previous segment, maybe with a few scenes from the previous issue, and maybe have the splash page be cel animation. The transformation sequence in #5 would have been better if it hadn't been shoved into such a small space.
I really think my suggestions would help this and your other ROBOTECH books, and I think you should seriously consider them; but I won't be too disappointed if you don't take them to heart. They are only suggestions and your ROBOTECH books are great just the way they are.
Adam Baker Raleigh, NC
[Editor's reply;
"We always take constructive sug- gestions to heart, Adam, and you may notice that we've already granted one of your wishes: almost every new issue of ROBOTECH now opens with a short recap to help refresh our readers' memories as to the events of the preceding issue.
Unfortunately, the process of color separation is such that we cannot mix flat colors with cel-like coloring within the pages of a single issue, however we are experimenting with a few painted covers. Let us know what you think, okay?"]
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Dear Comico,
I love both the ROBOTECH comic book and the cartoon.
I'd really love to see a romance between Minmel and the Zentraedi com- mander, Breetai. I think they would be well suited to each other. Minmei would probably soften Breetai, and Breetail would ask Minmei to make several choices. Minmei has yet to fall in love, and when she does, it will probably be love at first sight.
Besides, a romance of this sort would add a great twist to the story.
Keep up the good work.
Debbie Baxter Geneva, FL
[Editor's reply;
"Gee, Debbie, it's an interesting idea, but don't you think Rick Hunter might have a few things to say about a romance between Minmei and Breetai?! (Not to mention. that Minmei's a little, uh, short for the Zentraedi giant!)"]
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Dear Comico The Comic Company:
This is the first time that I've ever written to you nice people at Comico. I'm writing to thank you for adapting ROBOTECH, one of my all-time favorite Japanese-made animated series, into comics form. The series so far has been nothing short of excellent, especially your adaptation of THE MACROSS SAGA.
The writing, art, coloring, lettering - in short, everything! - have been first- rate! I've been impressed from the very first issue!
Once again, thank you, Comico, for adapting ROBOTECH into comics form!
Please keep up the outstanding work!
May you never run out of your supply of protoculture!
Sincerely,
Dexter Takashi Odani Vista, CA
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Dear fellow Robotech defenders:
ROBOTECH THE MACROSS SAGA #5 was excellent!!! Fantastic!!! I looked at the cover, then I knew something was different about it (compared to the other issues). The art was superb!!! Dave Johnson is to be congratulated! This was the best issue yet! Also, Jeff Dee did a great job on his part! By the way, is Jeff Dee the same guy who did the artwork for a role-playing game called Villains & Vigilantes?
I'm sorry to hear that Dave won't be penciling any other issues. I hope Mike. Leeke and Chris Kalnick do a good job as well as Dave and Jeff did!
Well, fellow Robotech defenders, I'll be seeing you in two weeks, for our next mission! Though there needs to be more improvement in your book, I wish you well and good hunting!
2nd Lt. of Skull Squadron,
Patrick Shiiba Honolulu, HI
[Editor's reply;
"Yes, Patrick, the Villains & Vigilantes artist is the one and only Jeff Dee! And if you like Jeff's work as much as we do, be sure to check out his talented pencilling in ROBOTECH THE NEW GENERATION #5, coming your way in January. And in the meantime, stay tuned for a real Techie treat in ROBOTECH THE MACROSS SAGA #9, starring "Miss Macross"!
- Diana Schutz"]
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ALL PURPOSE GENERIC LETTERS PAGE
[Message from the Editor;
"Welcome to our very first No Frills Letters Column here in the pages of ROBOTECH THE NEW GENERATION. If you're wondering why we've followed the trend in generic products with our all-purpose logo above, the answer is pretty simple: we don't have a name yet for this letters page. And that's where you come in. Did somebody mention a contest? You betcha!
Now's the time for all you Techies to get your creativity in gear, crank your cranium, and dream up a letters page title for ROBOTECH THE NEW GENERATION. Send us your best ideas for a name, and we'll pick the title that we like the most. The win- ner will receive a fabulous free drawing by one of Comico's terrifically talented ROBOTECH artists!
Please make sure to include your name and full address with your entry and send it to:
ROBOTECH THE NEW GENERATION
Letters Page
1547 DeKalb Street
Norristown, PA 19401
In the meantime, let's get on with some of your letters about the pre- mier issue of ROBOTECH THE NEW GENERATION..."]
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Dear Editor,
After reading ROBOTECH THE MACROSS SAGA, MASTERS, and THE NEW GENERATION, all I felt was disappointment. I'm writing now because I thought that maybe the same problem would not continue, or be characteristic of all three books, but it is. First, answer me this question: Is ROBOTECH aimed at the young readers of America, or is it supposed to keep the semi-intelligent and the semi-mature interested? If you were truly giving a comic book adaptation that has something to do with the television series, you would pick the latter. Unfortunately, that's not the message that comes across.
Here is my point. I'm not some sort of war-monger or a death freak, but I, along with many other people, have noticed that the ROBOTECH TV series is a somewhat violent show. In fact, it is the first in a long time that actually shows the deaths of people - not spacecraft, but actual people. This element is missing from your book.
Another thing missing is mature dialogue. The main plot and main theme always seem to come second to trivial little things the characters do. For instance, in THE NEW GENERATION, thirteen panels were dedicated to the love of two characters. It's good to establish sidelines to plots, but not write a novel. I also found pages 14 and 15 dismissable. It's obvious that Scott's going to feel sad over the death of his bride-to-be; it goes without saying. A couple of panels could have portrayed him in misery, not two pages. Finally, when the "young rebel" was being chased by robots, the dialogue was weak. If a 100-ton monster tried to squish me, I don't think my comeback would be, "Hey! What's the big idea?" I feel like I'm reading scripts for Leave it to Beaver!
I'm only trying to give some constructive criticism. After reading titles like MAGE and NEXT MAN, I figured your company's titles would be for the intellectual reader. You have a very interesting idea and three books at your disposal. You don't even have the Comics Code. Let's see some stronger dialogue and thicker plots and maybe we'll stick around.
Christopher Romano
Pacific Palisades, CA
[Editor's reply;
"Thanks for your letter, Chris sorry I had to shorten it slightly, due to space considerations. We're al- ways up for constructive criticism and will certainly take your recommendations into account. Trying to straddle the line between both older and younger readers is not an easy task, but that's what we've set out to do with ROBOTECH - sometimes it works, sometimes not. I would like to point out, however, that more ma- ture dialogue does not necessarily entail a slew of four-letter words, as you seem to imply. And there are some readers who would disagree with your suggestion to emphasize plot over characterization, as witness the following..."]
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Carl ---
Of the three ROBOTECH-related titles that are currently being published by Comico, ROBOTECH THE NEW GENERATION promises to be the best, and most entertaining, of them all.
While the artwork was similar to that of the other titles, and even some of the same creative personnel also work on the other ROBOTECH titles, the primary thing that sets this apart from the others. is the relationship between Scott and Marlene (the operative word being "relationship").
Call me an incurable romantic at heart but, the way I see it, if I were going into battle I certainly wouldn't be thinking about the safety of my troops, my planet, or even myself. As callous as it may sound, my first worry (and priority) would be the woman I love.
Anyway, thanks for a great issue.
Elvis Orten
Dawson Springs, KY
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Dear Comico,
Once again you have proven to me that you are the very best comic company by releasing ROBOTECH MASTERS and THE NEW GENERATION. They are both totally awesome! All my friends have commented on the good illustrations.
NOBODY MAKES COMICS LIKE COMICO!!!
Abraham Fetterman
Media, PA
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Dear Comico,
I have been collecting comics for years, but when the ROBOTECH comics came out I knew that I would be collecting all of these comics.
The artwork in the first issue of THE NEW GENERATION is excellent. The characters look exactly like they do in the TV show.
Keep up the good work, and please inform me when I can subscribe to ROBOTECH.
Jim Meyerhans
Windsor, CT
[Editor's reply;
"The good news, Jim, is that you can subscribe to all three ROBOTECH comics now! Check out our subscription ad elsewhere in this issue for details."]
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Dear Carl and Reggie,
May I be the first to congratulate you on your first fantastic issue of ROBOTECH THE NEW GENERATION. I am a loyal fan of the ROBOTECH television show and love all three parts of the ROBOTECH saga. But one part is more outstanding than the rest, and that is the third part. I would like to congratulate Reggie on his spectacular art. I love the way he draws Scott Bernard. He looks just as awesome as he appears on TV. Reggie, I think you are the best ROBOTECH artist, and you can rest assured that I shall pick up every issue of ROBOTECH THE NEW GENERATION that becomes available.
Dwight MacPherson
Largo, FL
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[Message from the Editor;
"Thanks to everyone who took the time to write - keep those letters coming, folks, we love to hear from you! In the meantime, be with us in six weeks for "Curtain Call," the next exciting chapter of ROBOTECH THE NEW GENERATION.
Diana Schutz"]
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ROBOTECH THE MACROSS SAGA #8
$1.50 USA $2.25 CAN
SCRIPT: JACK HERMAN,
PENCILS: REGGIE BYERS,
INKS: SAM KIETH,
LETTERS: BOB PINAHA,
COLORS: KURT MAUSERT,
EDITS: DIANA SCHUTZ
ROBOTECH The Macross Saga #8, December 1985. Published by COMICO the Comic Company, 1547 De Kalb St., Norristown, PA 19401. "ROBOTECH" is a trademark owned and licensed by Revell, Inc. Used here with permission. This story and the distinctive likenesses herein are 1985 Harmony Gold U.S.A., Inc./Tatsunoko Production Company, Ltd. All rights reserved. All other material, unless otherwise specified, is © 1985 Comico the Comic Company. All rights reserved. No similarity between any of the names, characters, persons and/or institutions in this publication and those of any existing or pre-existing person or institution is intended and any similarity which may exist is purely coincidental.
ROBOTECH The Macross Saga is published 9 times a year.
Printed in the U.S.A.
ROBOTECH The New Generation #4,
$1.50 USA $2.25 CAN
SCRIPT: JACK HERMAN,
PENCILS: DAVE JOHNSON,
INKS: TOM POSTON,
LETTERS: BOB PINAHA,
COLORS: KURT MAUSERT,
EDITS: DIANA SCHUTZ
ROBOTECH The New Generation #4, December 1985. Published by COMICO the Comic Company, 1547 De Kalb St., Norristown, PA 19401. "ROBOTECH" is a trademark owned and licensed by Revell, Inc. Used here with permission. This story and the distinctive likenesses herein are 1985 Harmony Gold U.S.A., Inc./Tatsunoko Production Company, Ltd. All rights reserved. All other material, unless otherwise specified, is © 1985 Comico the Comic Company. All rights reserved. No similarity between any of the names, characters, persons and/or institutions in this publication and those of any existing or pre-existing person or institution is intended and any similarity which may exist is purely coincidental.
ROBOTECH The New Generation is published 9 times a year.
Printed in the U.S.A.
NOVEMBER 1985
1985 NOVEMBER
ALL PURPOSE GENERIC LETTERS PAGE
1547 DEKALB STREET, NORRISTOWN, PA 19401
ROBOTECH MASTERS #4 November 1985.
[Editor's message;
"Welcome to our very first No Frills Letters Column here in the pages of ROBOTECH MASTERS. If you're wondering why we've followed the trend in generic products with our allpurpose logo above, the answer is pretty simple: we don't have a name yet for this letters page. And that's where you come in. Did some- body mention a contest? You betcha!"
"Now's the time for all you Techies to get your creativity in gear, crank your cranium, and dream up a letters page title for ROBOTECH MASTERS. Send us your best ideas for a name, and we'll pick the title that we like the most. The winner will receive a fabulous free drawing by one of Comico's terrifically talented ROBOTECH artists!"
"Please make sure to include your name and full address with your entry and send it to:
ROBOTECH MASTERS Letters Page 1547 DeKalb Street Norristown, PA 19401
In the meantime, let's get on with some of your letters about the premier issue of ROBOTECH MASTERS..."]
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Mike, Neil, and Rich - Hi guys!
Just thought I'd drop y'all a line to let all the parties involved know how much I enjoyed ROBOTECH MASTERS #1 (largely because/in spite of the storyline).
The major thing I liked about "False Start" was the fact that a woman was finally seen leading her troops quite capably into battle, because, before this issue, I don't remember seeing any female pilots, much less squadron lead- ers, in either ROBOTECH THE MACROSS SAGA or THE NEW GENERATION. Thanks, guys.
(A quick personal note: I'd much rather go into battle behind a female officer because, besides their training and talents, most women have an uncanny intuitive ability that, more often than not, proves to be pretty damn accurate.)
Also, although the idea of a bunch of second-rate hell-raisers being the last line of defense against supposedly in- surmountable odds is most assuredly not the most original plot device in the world, and it has been used so many times as to (now) be considered trite, it can still be quite effective when handled by the right creative team. After reading ROBOTECH MASTERS #1, I'm firmly convinced that you three gents are defi- nitely the right team for the job.
See ya next issue.
Elvis Orten Dawson Springs, KY
P.S. Since Comico seems to be so interested in animation adaptations, now is probably the best possible time to see if I can convince you folks to adapt either COBRA or even something along the lines of JONNY QUEST into a regular title. How 'bout it, folks?
[Editor's Reply;
"Yup, mm-hmm, ye editor likes this letter a lot! You know, Elvis, I've gone on record elsewhere about the pitiful dearth of strong-yet-sensitive women in comics and I am quite honestly proud to present some healthy females in the pages of our ROBOTECH series.
Not only does ROBOTECH MASTERS boast the tremendous trio of Dana Sterling, Marie Crystal, and Nova Satori, but THE MACROSS SAGA also has its share of fabulous femmes, including Lynn Minmei and Lisa Hayes and where would THE NEW GENERATION be without the mysterious Rook Bartley, not to mention that ever-lovin' hothead, Annie?
Then again, Comico has a knack, it seems, for spotlighting some pretty extraordinary gals - just check out MAGE's Edsel, or Fathom and Morningstar in ELEMENTALS, if you don't believe me."
"And as regards your postscript, your wish has come true! Beginning in June of next year, Comico will indeed be publishing the adventures of JONNY QUEST each and every month. The first issue will feature Doug Wildey writing and drawing the lead story for those one or two of you who may not know, Doug is the fella who set the design and look of the original TV series some twenty years ago and we are very pleased to have him re-introduce JONNY QUEST to a whole new generation of readers. And as if that weren't enough, the back-up feature will be scripted by William Messner-Loebs, writer/artist of the critically acclaimed JOURNEY, and pencilled by Steve Rude of NEXUS fame. Now who says Comico Isn't good to its fans, huh?!"]
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Dear Comico,
I was disappointed with ROBOTECH MASTERS #1 for two reasons. First, the episode you used for the first issue was "False Start," and not "Dana's Story." Why? "Dana's Story" makes a good introduction to the story of the ROBOTECH MASTERS, and it remains my favorite episode of the ROBOTECH series.
Were you afraid of giving away the plots of later episodes and the end- ing of the ROBOTECH THE MACROSS SAGA series? Those of us who watch the TV series already know how THE MACROSS SAGA comes out, and it does not spoil my enjoyment of the comic.
My second complaint is that the dialogue in the comic was not entirely the same as in the TV episode. Now, changing the dialogue when adapting to comic form is entirely permissible here and there, but in this instance you caused an important part of the story to be left out.
Those readers who have not seen the TV episode are probably won- dering why Captain Sean Phillips was in the brig, and why he was busted to private. Because of the dialogue changes, this was not satisfactorily explained. For those readers I men- tioned, I would like to say that Captain Phillips was in the brig, and was busted, because he made a pass at a general's daughter.
At least, that was how the men of the 15th squadron heard it; Dana apparently heard that Captain Phillips had made a pass at a general's wife. Please avoid mistakes like that in the future in your ROBOTECH adaptations, and get "Dana's Story" into comic form, and I will continue to enjoy your ROBOTECH comics.
Johnnie Rutkowski Paramount, CA
[Editor's Reply;
"Johnnie isn't the only person who was concerned about the omission of "Dana's Story" from the beginning of ROBOTECH MASTERS; it seems we left a few of you a little perplexed, including Bradford Barnes, Mark Strachan, Steven Warner, Loyd Calomay, Perry Beard, Robert Matos, and Kevin Sartori."
"Thanks to all for writing. In the meantime, though, Johnnie was right on the mark in his surmise that we didn't want to reveal the end of THE MACROSS SAGA. Ya see, "Dana's Story" is the transition episode between THE MACROSS SAGA and MASTERS, and while we agree that it's a great episode, we hope to eventually present it in the special format it deserves."
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Dear Masters,
I can't tell you how much I love ROBOTECH MASTERS. I think the first issue was great! I liked the front cover the most-it was great, too. I hope you guys keep up the good work. See you next issue.
Victor Lam Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
[Message from the Editor;
"That's about all we have room for this time, folks. But stay tuned for next issue as Dana and her crew prepare to enter the "Danger Zone"! See ya then. - Diana Schutz"
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Dear Comico,
ROBOTECH THE MACROSS SAGA #3 was spectacular! The art was great, the color was great, and the script was great. Everything was fabulous! What more could any comic lover want?
How's that for commending you on a great job?
Your fan,
Chris Slate Greensboro, NC
[Editor's Reply;
"- Just fine by us, Chris!"]
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Dear Editor,
I just wanted to drop a line to say how pleased I was to see the name of Bob Pinaha turn up in the credits of your ROBOTECH series as letterer. As a friend and admirer of his for more than a decade, I'm pleased as punch to see him getting an opportunity to show how good he is.
The best thing, of course, is what an excellent job he is doing. Lettering is a fine art, appreciated by very few. Pinaha has quickly shown himself to be one of the best. I'll continue to look for his work in the pages of your fine publications.
Sincerely,
Bob Andelman Clearwater, FL
[Editor's Reply;
"Comic book letterers are truly the unsung heroes of our industry and Bob Pinaha does indeed do a tremendous job. Bob's calligraphic talents can be found not only in our ROBOTECH series, but in MAGE and ELEMENTALS, both published by Comico, as well as in Colleen Doran's A DISTANT SOIL, published by our friends at WaRP Graphics."]
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Dear Comico,
I've become a ROBOTECH fanatic just recently, thanks to your comic. Collecting everything saying ROBOTECH, MACROSS, SOUTHERN CROSS, and MOSPEADA has become a major hobby. All thanks to Comico. In my area, MACROSS#1 was released before the cartoon show.
Without you people, I might've missed the first episode. Your art technique is spectacular! Will any ROBOTECH series have a permanent artist? It's not that I don't like the idea of letting artists rotate so we'll never get bored of your terrific art, I'm just curious.
Thanks for being Comico, the comic company!
Micronian, William Chen Honolulu, HI
[Editor's Reply;
"William, don't you know that curiosity killed the... well, never mind! Seriously now, in answer to your question, you'll find that ROBOTECH MASTERS regularly showcases the delicate pencil work of the very talented Mr. Neil D. Vokes. As for THE MACROSS SAGA and THE NEW GENERATION segments of Comico's ROBOTECH series, we think you'll agree that variety is the spice of life... at least for the time being!"]
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Gentlemen,
ROBOTECH was first brought to my attention, while I was visiting Los Angeles, as an animated series. The show really touched me. The problem is that I don't live in L.A.- I live right here in New York. Keeping up with this spectacular adventure was not easy since the series is not shown here, but you changed that.
Thank you for bringing the thrill back. What you have accomplished here is truly amazing. The art is superb and you have managed to retain that special flair that is evident in the show. I only hope that Harmony Gold Productions brings the series here, to New York. But until then, and even after, I'm with you all the way.
Congratulations, people! You're doing great!
Your loyal fan,
Miguel Andrini Brooklyn, NY
[Editor's Reply;
"Now you can read the ROBOTECH series and watch it on TV, Miguel, as the show is airing on NBC in New York (channel 4) at 7 a.m. Saturdays and 7:30 a.m. Sundays."]
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Gentlemen,
I congratulate you on your ROBOTECH comic or MACROSS, whichever you prefer. For once I have found a comic that gives its characters true meaning and real personality.
This has to be the first comic that I have found to have actual reason and meaning.
Before ROBOTECH, I never had reason to look anywhere past Marvel. Now I do.
Thanks for opening these eyes.
David Wallace Harwinton, CT
[Editor's Reply;
"Hmm... methinks it's time for both David and Miguel to get hip to the '80s and realize that there are women on the planet! Although the men at Comico are indeed of the gentle sort, our busy bookkeeper Michelle and ye editor the gal who reads these letters, after all are definitely not men, gentle or otherwise!"]
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Comico,
Just wanted you to know you've al- ready improved art-wise since I last wrote you!
Concerning MACROSS and THE NEW GENERATION: Reggie Byers is superb!
Keep up the great work!
Tim Bryant Chicago, IL
[Editor's Reply;
"Hey, we think Reggie is tops, too! So don't forget to pick up the next issue of ROBOTECH THE MACROSS SAGA, featuring Minmei's "Sweet Sixteen" birthday party, pencilled by the estimable Mr. Byers and rendered by MAGE inker Sam Kieth.
Cheers!
Diana Schutz"]
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[NOTE: In Diana Schutz's reply to Miguel Andrini from Brooklyn, NY USA; "the show is airing on NBC in New York (channel 4) at 7 a.m. Saturdays and 7:30 a.m. Sundays.". We now know that, instead of the 5 day weekly slot (after school), that When ROBOTECH spread to New York, it changed to the weekend early morning kids certoon slot.
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Friday, 30 May 2025
OCTOBER 1985
1985 OCTOBER
THE ALL PURPOSE GENERIC LETTERS PAGE!
The aim of this resource is to provide a record of the community of fans, and their voices that gave feedback, in print for all to see.
This month has been created for when NEW text is found that fits in chronological order.
[NOTE: That there was not any feeback printed, for this month of October (1985) in any ROBOTECH comic book.]
Any other 'Letters', or 'Messages' to fans in other likeminded publications wil be printed when found! (Dated 20 May 2025)
SEPTEMBER 1985
1985 SEPTEMBER
ROBOTECH's MACROSS MAIL
1547 DEKALB ST. NORRISTOWN, PA 19401
ROBOTECH THE MACROSS SAGA #6 September 1985.
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Dear Comico:
My son has had me searching the comic vendors in my area for your ROBOTECH comic books. I have found him the first three issues, but your comics seem to have just vanished from the racks and issue #4 is nowhere to be found.
I have also read these first three issues and found the first exceptional, but can surely understand why the format had to be changed. Happily, you have continued to exhibit excellent art and inking in the subsequent issues. If you continue to show this much care and talent in all your endeavors you are going to make the Marvel Group take notice... good fortune to you all.
Thanking you in advance, an impressed reader
Bob Wright DeSoto, MO
[Editor's reply:
"Thanks for the kind words, Bob. It's always gratifying to hear from a satisfied reader-espe- cially one who's also a parent. Hopefully by now you've been able to find ROBOTECH TMS#4 (as well as issues #5 and #6) at your local comic shop."]
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Dear Comico,
Hi. I just wanted to comment on your MACROSS story. I think it's a really great story and I love being able to buy it at the bookstore as well as watch it on TV. I have the first and third issues now (I'll have to find the second somewhere) and I was surprised at how different the TV show was, compared to the comic book version. This book has, for one, changed my view on Minmei, who I thought was a real airhead on the TV show since she never said anything of much intelligence on TV until she got older than she was in the early episodes.
As far as the new art in the third issue goes, I really miss those nice watercolor paintings used in the backgrounds of the first issue. They helped add life to the pictures. The Varitechs and battlepods and the other mecha in the third issue looked a little better than in the first, but the characters in both need improving. I am happy to see that the spelling was greatly improved on in the new issue, compared to the first!
Anyway, despite my pickiness, I think you guys are doing a great job with ROBOTECH THE MACROSS SAGA and I can't wait to get the next issue!
Your fan,
Lori Keenan Sacramento, CA
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Dear Comico,
I am a big ROBOTECH fan and I am glad that you have come out with the comic book version. I bought MACROSS #1 in May for $5.00, but I am glad I spent every cent. I loved it.
I have one question: Is Rick's last name Yamata (as stated in MACROSS #1) or is it Hunter (as stated in ROBOTECH TMS #3 and in the TV show)?
In our city, the cartoon has been taken off the air for the summer. I can't wait until it comes back on, but I am glad that your comic is here, otherwise it would have been a very dull summer!
Your loyal fan,
E. Voon
[Editor's reply:
"Rick's last name is indeed "Hunter," having been changed from "Yamata" due to the transition from MACROSS to ROBOTECH. In the ROBOTECH TV show other names have also been anglicized: for example, Lisa Hayase has become Lisa Hayes. Since Comico is adapting ROBOTECH, we've changed our characters' names accordingly. Sorry if it's caused some confusion, but now that everything's been straightened out, shouldn't have any trouble figur- ing out who's who!"]
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Dear Robotech Masters,
I've just finished reading ROBOTECH TMS #3 and I'm very impressed. I'm sorry to have missed #2, but the artwork has improved a great deal since issue #1. I watch the TV series daily (which is already up to ROBOTECH THE NEW GENERATION). I've seen the births and deaths in the TV show, and you guys are doing a great job capturing each charac- ter's personality in your top-notch comic.
Keep up the good work and don't step on any protoculture!
Your fan,
Pat Youkers, Butler, PA
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Comico:
Although ROBOTECH TMS #3 wasn't the most complicated story I've ever read, it most assuredly was one of the most enjoyable, thanks in large part to the artistic wizardry of Neil Vokes and Rich Rankin.
The visuals gave the illusion of flow- ing really smoothly from panel to panel which, in my opinion, helped promote the action scenes in ROBOTECH TMS #3, as well as lending a stabilizing effect to the rest of the book.
Also, although I like the look of the new, brighter, more vibrant coloring process, I've got a question for you: Just exactly what steps are involved in the process?
Lookin' forward to ROBOTECH MASTERS and ROBOTECH THE NEW GENERATION.
Elvis Orten Dawson Springs, KY
[Editor's reply:
"As regards our "new" coloring process, Elvis, flat color is in fact the system of color separa- tion most commonly used in comic book production. Comico Art Director Gerry Giovinco explains: "The hand cut screens used by Comico are measured in four percentages that allow us a range of hundreds of colors above the usual 65 colors used by our major competitors. This system enables our colors to remain consistent from page to page, issue to issue. It is also less time-consuming for our colorists and less expensive than full color process, which is the photographic process used in MACROSS #1 and MAGE." Speaking of coloring, we hope you're as enthralled with this issue's cover as we are. After being pencilled and inked by Messrs. Leeke and Kalnick, the cover was then painstakingly painted by New York artist Tom Reilly and we think it's outstanding."]
*********
[Message from the Editor:
"By the time this lettercol sees print, the following information will be slightly old news, but it's certainly worth noting just the same:
ROBOTECH fans are in for a real treat with issue #23 of David Anthony Kraft's COMICS INTERVIEW, which features interviews with Neil Vokes, the talented penciller of ROBOTECH MASTERS, and Carl Macek, producer of the ROBOTECH TV show. That issue also features an interview with Eclipse Comics Editor-in-Chief Cat Yronwode, a fine human being whose words are always worth reading.
And in the meantime, keep those cards and letters coming. We read every single letter of comment sent to us here at Comico and we really value your input.
Cheers!
- Diana Schutz"]
*********
[NOTE: That Gerry Giovinco (Comico's Art Director), is quoted as saying "The hand cut screens used by Comico are measured in four percentages that allow us a range of hundreds of colors above the usual 65 colors used by our major competitors. This system enables our colors to remain consistent from page to page, issue to issue.” - so there must be a basic set of 65 colours, compared a range in the Hundreds!]
[NOTE: Having found, and bought a copy of Issue #23 of “ David Anthony Kraft's COMICS INTERVIEW” (1985), I have narrowed it down to either May 1985, or June 1985 for the date, which matches a magazine's deadline of 3 to 4 months in advance of printing advertisments. With the sub-title of ROBOTECH, and featuring interviews with Pencileer Neil Vokes, and Carl Macek whose planning brought Anime to US TV screens, and pioneered Cinematic releases of Anime Dubbed into English, is worth a fresh read .]
[Side-NOTE: When the Editor Diana Schutz uses the word "Messrs." when referring to Leeke and Kainick,it is an abbreviation meaning "the plural of Mr.". It's an old-fashioned way of referring to two or more men, particularly in business contexts. In French, it's a plural of "Monsieur".]
[NOTE: *Pat Youkers, of Butler, (that is about 35 miles north of Pittsburgh) has been watching ROBOTECH Monday to Friday, and at the time of writing, is already up to the Last story-arc named “The New Generation”. Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania (PA), was number 10 on the TV stations (WPTT, Channel 22) currently showing ROBOTECH reported\printed in May's issue 3 of “ ROBOTECH the MACROSS Saga”. So we should be able to do some mathematics here? Episode 61 "The Invid Invasion" starts this run, so by the end of week 13 (episode 65), given that each week (Monday to Friday) is 5 episodes, it is only 20 episodes, or so away from finishing the 85 running total, and just over 4 months of TV on air-time overall. All these factors are part of the television syndication in North America (U.S.A.), And the branding and spread of this franchise.]
[NOTE: *E. Voon, in their letter brings up the name changes of characters, after picking up ISSUE ONE “MACROSS” nearly 6 months later (what a bargain at only $5). His example is “Rick Yamata” to bring “Rick Hunter” in the ROBOTECH Comic-books and TV show. The Editor confirms this and adds “other names have also been anglicized: for example, Lisa Hayase has become Lisa Hayes” , and that this is all part of the translation into ROBOTECH. This shows the awareness of Fans to spot the Japanese origins, and inquire about the cross nationalisation in media.]
[NOTE:*Lori Keenan of Sacramento tells us that “this book has, for one, changed my view”, recounting that character of 'Minmei' “never said anything of much intelligence on TV [in the TV SHOW] until she got older than she was in the early episodes”, and thought that Minmei' was “a real airhead”, but having read the comics has a more positive recollection. Demonstrating that comic-books can add depth to the storytelling']
*********
ROBOTECH THE MACROSS SAGA #6
$1.50 USA $2.25 CAN
SCRIPT: JACK HERMAN,
PENCILS: MIKE LEEKE,
INKS: CHRIS KALNICK,
LETTERS: BOB PINAHA,
COLORS: RICK TAYLOR,
EDITS: DIANA SCHUTZ
*COVER: TOM REILLY (PAINTER) - With help from MIKE LEEKE (PENCILS), & CHRIS KALNICK (INKS).
ROBOTECH The Macross Saga #6, September 1985. Published by COMICO the Comic Company, 1547 De Kalb St., Norristown, PA 19401. "ROBOTECH" is a trademark owned and licensed by Revell, Inc. Used here with permission. This story and the distinctive likenesses herein are 1985 Harmony Gold U.S.A., Inc./Tatsunoko Production Company, Ltd. All rights reserved. All other material, unless otherwise specified, is © 1985 Comico the Comic Company. All rights reserved. No similarity between any of the names, characters, persons and/or institutions in this publication and those of any existing or pre-existing person or institution is intended and any similarity which may exist is purely coincidental.
ROBOTECH The Macross Saga is published 9 times a year.
Printed in the U.S.A.
Wednesday, 28 May 2025
AUGUST 1985
1985 AUGUST
ROBOTECH's MACROSS MAIL
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Dear Carl and company:
All I can do right now is praise you for the fine job you are doing on ROBOTECH, which has improved con- siderably since the first ish. However, though, I feel the dialogue could be bet- ter in some areas but considering that you, Carl, are busy handling both the comics and the television series, I give you credit for being able to handle the pressure of doing both and making both among the best in their respective fields.
Keep up the good work on ROBOTECH THE MACROSS SAGA.
It's ichi ban!
Aaron Reed Brockton, MA
*********
Dear Comico,
For years I have been tuned out to the comic scene, due to the fact that the companies that had (nearly) cor- nered the market were producing such commercial crud that all the characters were the same superheroes with cardboard cut-outs as accessory characters and enemies that belonged in the funny farm. The art looked like black and white sketches with color arbitrarily thrown in to keep readers satisfied and the storylines were totally interchangeable.
With sci-fi comics the setting was so futuristic that all problems were solved through technology and the villains did what they did just for the sake of being evil. It seems that it took the Japanese to throw us out of our apathy with the animation of Macross and an alternative company like Comico to start as a catalyst for change.
In ROBOTECH THE MACROSS SAGA the heroes are not super in any way, just intelligent or gifted. The villains are not villains; the conflict is between the haves and the have-nots, although the haves don't know that they have anything. I liked the innovative artwork in the first issue and was somewhat disappointed by the second issue's artwork, but I guess a deadline is a deadline.
Are there any plans for other Japanese cartoon-comics?
Doug Welch Redwood City, CA
[Editor's reply;
"By now, Doug, you should have been able to pick up both ROBOTECH MASTERS #1 and ROBOTECH THE NEW GENERATION #1 at your local comics emporium. These two exciting new comics are adapted from the popular ROBOTECH TV series currently in national syndication. The MASTERS and NEW GENERATION segments of the ROBOTECH show are based upon the Japanese animated series, Southern Cross and Mospeada, respectively."]
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Dear Comico,
I can't believe it. I read MACROSS #1 and ROBOTECH THE MACROSS SAGA #2 and there's only one word (or more) that can describe those issues. Totally awesome! Excellent! Extravagant! Spectacular! In other words, It! Was! Great! I loved every page.
Gintas Grabauskas Chicago, IL
[Editor's reply;
"Thanks! A! Lot!"]
*********
Editor:
When I saw the first ads for MACROSS in Comico comics, I was overjoyed. I thought it would either be an English translation of the actual Japanese comic or the photo-novel style of STAR BLAZERS. When the first issue came out, I was disappointed not only because it wasn't what I expected, but also the following: the art did seem distantly inspired by the Japanese version, but I'm afraid I found it substandard. The backgrounds were also not skillfully done.
The second issue was a definite improvement with an excellent cover and the inking skills of Rich Rankin improving the inside art as well. The pencillers still have to work on small details, such as Japanese-style eyes, as well as overall art to achieve the "integrity" desired. Cityscapes, for example, are difficult but a real disappointment if not done well.
On the whole, ROBOTECH is a hopeful project and I look forward to following its progression.
Craig Maher Poughkeepsie, NY
[Editor's reply;
"And on the other hand... Craig Maher, meet Dan Cherney..."]
*********
To the production staff of ROBOTECH THE MACROSS SAGA:
I was quite impressed with the first issue of this new comic. The cover art alone was worth the price of the comic. I was also pleased that you decided to recapture the feeling and look of cel animation in your artwork. All in all, a job well done.
But... that first issue did have its pit-falls. The artwork on page 2 is god-aw-fully bad. There are a few other complaints (mostly with background artwork), but it's nothing that a few lessons in perspective and proper color usage couldn't cure.
Then came your second issue a truly shocking disappointment. The cover art is one of the most garbled, busy, and confusing pieces of cover art I've ever seen. Terrible stuff, just terrible. What happened? And then there's the interior art and lettering. It was a big let down to see that you abandoned the "cel-animation" technique, but I suppose that I'll eventually get used to the standard comic art format.
All criticisms aside, I wish you good luck on your future efforts. There is room for improvement in your book and I think you can turn it into something special.
Dan Cherney Cleveland, OH
[Editor's reply;
"We here at Comico already think our ROBOTECH books are something special, Dan! As much, however, as we would like to return to a cel-like approach to the art, it's simply not practical for a series like ROBOTECH, which is published twice a month. Still, we do think you'll agree that each of our titles maintains the integrity of its Japanese counterpart and the books are improving all the time! By the way, what did you think of this issue's creative team? Everyone involved really put their heart and soul into the issue you're holding... and we think it shows!"]
[NEXT ISSUE: Join us for the debut of the art team of penciller Mike Leeke and inker Chris Kalnick. You've seen their outstanding covers these last three issues, now watch what happens when they take over the entire book! Be here for "Blitzkrieg"!]
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[NOTE: These Letters to the Editor, were mainly aimed at issue ONE (MACROSS), and issue TWO (now called ROBOTECH The MACROSS Saga), published 8 to 4 months after their printing. (December 1984, & April 1985 to now August 1985). People writing their views via APPs, and the Internet, can get replies to thier feedback, within seconds, or minutes, or at the very least a few days. What a differance!]
[NOTE: Dan Cherney of Cleveland, OH. USA. had a "shocking disappointment" when came to the "cover art", and the "interior art", but looked like he was resigned to "that I'll eventually get used to the standard comic art format." the Editor's reply being "As much, however, as we would like to return to a cel-like approach to the art, it's simply not practical for a series like ROBOTECH, which is published twice a month." So massive deadlines, and time constraints for a $1.50 comic book! ]
[NOTE: Craig Maher of Poughkeepsie, NY. USA. Had high hopes for the MACROSS comic book "When I saw the first ads for MACROSS in Comico comics, I was overjoyed.", this must have been in late 1984 (I would guess 1 to 3 months before its 1984 DECEMBER printing), but "I thought it would either be an English translation of the actual Japanese comic or the photo-novel style of STAR BLAZERS." - It maybe that in 1980 and 1983 printed photo-comic\novel style (issues 1 to 5 by West Cape) books had a limited run for STAR BLAZERS, as it would be a few more years before Comico would themselves run 2 mini series.]
ROBOTECH THE MACROSS SAGA #5
$1.50 USA $2.25 CAN
SCRIPT: JACK HERMAN,
PENCILS: DAVE JOHNSON,
INKS: JEFF DEE,
LETTERS: L. LOIS BUHALIS,
COLORS: TOM VINCENT,
EDITS: DIANA SCHUTZ
ROBOTECH The Macross Saga #5, August 1985. Published by COMICO the Comic Company, 1547 De Kalb St., Norristown, PA 19401. "ROBOTECH" is a trademark owned and licensed by Revell, Inc. Used here with permission. This story and the distinctive likenesses herein are 1985 Harmony Gold U.S.A., Inc./Tatsunoko Production Company, Ltd. All rights reserved. All other material, unless otherwise specified, is © 1985 Comico the Comic Company. All rights reserved. No similarity between any of the names, characters, persons and/or institutions in this publication and those of any existing or pre-existing person or institution is intended and any similarity which may exist is purely coincidental. ROBOTECH The Macross Saga is published 9 times a year.
Printed in the U.S.A.
DECEMBER 1985
1985 DECEMBER ROBOTECH's MACROSS MAIL 1547 DEKALB ST. NORRISTOWN, PA 19401 ROBOTECH THE MACROSS SAGA #8 December 1985. To the artists...
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WELCOME TO ' THE ALL PURPOSE GENERIC LETTERS PAGE!' (see the ABOUT Page for more details) The aim of this resource is to p... -
1985 June DAVID ANTHONY KRAFT'S COMICS INTERVIEW ROBOTECH #23 June 1985 (May 1985?). "ROBOTECH MASTERS is definitely going to st... -
1984 DECEMBER MACROSS THE INSIDE STORY: The genesis of this comic book adaptation of MACROSS , one of Japan's most respected animated a...