Recently, the community of Japanese Internet users has made the upcoming debut of a new independent VTuber named “Yuuki Sakuna”, who was supposedly the same person who played “Minato Aqua”one of the most popular VTubers of the Hololive Production agency until her retirement in August 2024. This rumor has gained traction due to several clues that fans have found, the most important being the fact that The “Yuuki Sakuna” YouTube channel is not new, but a rebranding of the old channel “りんちゃんです (Rin-chandesu)”, previously linked to Minato Aqua. Some users noticed that they were already subscribed to this channel, which confirmed suspicions about the identity of the VTuber behind Yuuki Sakuna.

It should be remembered that Minato Aqua announced his retirement citing “differences in management” with the Hololive Production agency, which generated various opinions and speculations at the time. The possibility that she will now return as an independent creator is causing a stir, since many fans of the original VTuber see in Yuuki Sakuna a continuation of the essence of Aqua, although with certain modifications.

In forums and social networks, the reactions have been varied. Some users showed surprise and emotion, as is the case in the comments: «Whaaat?!», «So I was alive“, and “Hadn't he retired? I don't know the reason». However, there were also those who criticized his return, interpreting his transition to independent VTuber as a way to “cash in” without the intervention of an agency. This is reflected in comments such as «Those who believed he had really retired are lost. She is still determined to squeeze her followers».

Another point discussed is the freedom that Yuuki Sakuna will now have to collaborate with other creators, especially male ones, something that is sometimes restricted by VTubers agencies. «You can now play Valorant with men as much as you want», some comment, while others warn that «The important thing is that you do not collaborate with men», evidencing that this issue continues to be a divisive aspect for some fans.

Why are more and more VTubers launching as independents?

Yuuki Sakuna's case is not unique; In recent years, it has become common to see VTubers leaving their agencies to pursue their careers independently. This transition allows them to obtain income without sharing margins with the agency and, in addition, they fully control their content and creative decisions. As one user comments on networks, «Of course, because they no longer have to give a commission to the agency».

However, some fans question whether these transitions actually benefit creators in the long run, as maintaining popularity without agency backing can be challenging. «Can they maintain popularity? At first people are interested in “reincarnation” but…», reflects a user in a forum.

The departure of popular figures like Minato Aqua has raised questions about the role of VTubers agencies in Japan and their future in an increasingly competitive industry. In fact, some comments suggest that Yuuki Sakuna could prove that agencies are no longer necessary: ​​«Let her prove that Cover Corp. is no longer necessary.».

Fountain: Yaraon!

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