Book publisher Lost in Cult and Suda51 have revealed its plans to release a physical book honoring the legacy of the Japanese studio Grasshopper Manufacture.

Founded in 1998 by the CEO and game designer Goichi “Suda51” Suda, Grasshopper Manufacture has created over 20 titles and was acquired by NetEase Games in October 2021. This year marks the 25th anniversary of Grasshopper Manufacture, solidifying its position as a contemporary of well-established developers such as Valve, Sony Santa Monica, and Retro Studios.

Authored by Blake Hester and spanning over 400 pages, the “Kill the Past: 25 Years of Grasshopper Manufacture” book will provide in-depth insights and behind-the-scenes looks at some of the studio’s major games, including Killer7 (2005), No More Heroes (2007), Shadows of the Damned (2011), Black Knight Sword (2012), and more.

The book will also feature exclusive interviews with key creators such as Suda51, Shinji Mikami, and Hiroyuki Tamura, offering new anecdotes behind Grasshopper Manufacture.

A limited quantity of deluxe editions will also be available, featuring an embossed black box and a complete set of Grasshopper trading cards (standard editions will include just one card). The deluxe edition will also include separate essay books covering the four popular games (Killler7, No More Heroes, Shadows of the Damned, and The Silver Case), packed with captivating artwork, behind-the-scenes details, and critical essays.

The first 1000 orders of the deluxe edition will receive a signed copy with a bookplate autographed by Suda51 himself! The release of “Kill the Past: 25 Years of Grasshopper Manufacture” is scheduled for Q2/Q3 2025, and pre-orders are currently open until 18 October 2024.