Hiroshi Ikehata directs the Jump manga adaptation at Bilbury Animation Studios

 brand-new trailer for the upcoming WITCH WATCH anime was released at the Jump Festa 2025 stage event for the magical comedy series, revealing the anime will air on Sundays at 17:00 JST for two continuous cours starting in April 2025. Four more cast members were also confirmed.

WITCH WATCH Anime Trailer

The WITCH WATCH anime’s cast list is now as follows:

• Nico Wakatsuki voiced by Rina Kawaguchi (Quan in Kizuna no Allele)
• Morihito Otogi voiced by Ryota Suzuki (Ryusei in Dr. STONE)
• Kanshi Kazamatsuri voiced by Kohei Amasaki (Will in Wistoria: Wand and Sword)
• Keigo Magami voiced by Kaito Ishikawa (Naofumi in The Rising of the Shield Hero)
• Nemu Miyao voiced by Tomori Kusunoki (Shizuka in Zom 100: Bucket List of the Dead)
• Yuri Makuwa voiced by Mikako Komatsu (Maki in JUJUTSU KAISEN)
• Kara Minami voiced by Rie Takahashi (Yuzuriha in Hell’s Paradise)
• Kukumi Ureshino voiced by Konomi Kohara (Chika in Kaguya-sama: Love is War)
• Tenryu Kiyomiya voiced by Yoshitsugu Matsuoka (Futaro in The Quintessential Quinuplets)

RELATED: WITCH WATCH Anime Adaptation Officially Announced for April 2025

Based on the manga by Kenta Shinohara (SKET Dance), Hiroshi Ikehata (TONIKAWA: Over The Moon For You) directs the WITCH WATCH anime at Bilbury Animation Studios, with series composition by Deko Akao (The Case Study of Vanitas), character designs by Haruko Iizuka (Horimiya) and music by Yukari Hashimoto (A Sign of Affection).

Story of Witch Watch Anime

Witch Watch is a Japanese manga series written and illustrated by Kenta Shinohara, serialized in Weekly Shōnen Jump since February 2021. While there is no official anime adaptation announced as of now, the manga’s popularity and unique premise make it a strong candidate for an eventual adaptation. Here’s an overview of the story:

Plot Overview

The story follows Morihito “Moi” Otogi, a stoic and strong teenager who is secretly an ogre, and his childhood friend, Nico Wakatsuki, an enthusiastic and somewhat clumsy witch. After training abroad, Nico returns home and informs Moi that she has been assigned a familiar—a magical servant—to protect her. That familiar is none other than Moi himself.

Together, they navigate the challenges of their unusual arrangement, dealing with Nico’s chaotic magic, Moi’s duty to protect her, and the various supernatural beings and threats that cross their path.

Main Characters

1. Nico Wakatsuki:
   • A bubbly, optimistic young witch whose spells often lead to hilarious or disastrous consequences.
   • She harbors a crush on Moi and struggles to express her feelings while dealing with her clumsy magical mishaps.
2. Morihito “Moi” Otogi:
   • A serious and responsible ogre tasked with protecting Nico.
   • Despite his stoic demeanor, he deeply cares for Nico and often acts as the straight man to her antics.
3. Kanshi Kazamatsuri:
   • A cheerful and mischievous tengu (a type of yokai) who befriends Nico and Moi.
   • He adds comic relief and assists in various magical and supernatural situations.
4. Other Supporting Characters:
   • A colorful cast of supernatural beings, classmates, and rival witches who bring humor, drama, and action to the story.

Key Themes

1. Friendship and Romance:
   • The heart of the story is the evolving relationship between Nico and Moi, blending romantic tension with deep friendship.
   • Their interactions are filled with comedic misunderstandings and heartfelt moments.
2. Magic and Supernatural Adventures:
   • Each chapter introduces new magical spells, supernatural beings, or humorous situations, keeping the narrative fresh and entertaining.
   • The series combines episodic comedy with overarching plotlines involving witch lore and magical threats.
3. Coming-of-Age:
   • Both Nico and Moi grow as individuals, learning to navigate their responsibilities, emotions, and relationships.
4. Comedy and Chaos:
   • The series excels at lighthearted humor, often stemming from Nico’s magical blunders or the interactions between its quirky characters.

Why Fans Love It

1. Lighthearted Tone:
   • The blend of supernatural elements with slice-of-life comedy creates a fun and engaging experience.
2. Relatable Characters:
   • Despite their supernatural traits, the characters’ emotions, struggles, and relationships are relatable and endearing.
3. Creative World-Building:
   • The series incorporates a mix of traditional witchcraft and Japanese folklore, offering a unique take on the magical genre.
4. Beautiful Artwork:
   • Kenta Shinohara’s art brings the characters and their world to life with expressive designs and detailed settings.

Potential Anime Appeal

If adapted into an anime, Witch Watch could become a hit due to:

• Its mix of humor, action, and heartfelt moments.
• Its vibrant cast of characters and magical antics.
• Its episodic yet plot-driven structure, making it accessible for casual viewers while rewarding for dedicated fans.

Conclusion
Witch Watch is a charming blend of supernatural comedy, magic, and romance that has captured the hearts of manga readers. With its endearing characters, whimsical storytelling, and emotional depth, it’s a delightful series that would translate well into an anime format.

The lead staff and cast for the adaptation were revealed with a new trailer

Friendships can spark between the unlikeliest of lifeforms. After the announcement a few weeks ago, the first trailer for the upcoming Takopi’s Original Sin anime adaptation, based on TAIZAN 5’s manga, was released today at Jump Festa 2025. The trailer revealed the returning voices from the manga trailers, the lead staff members and a 2025 premiere.

Takopi’s Original Sin Teaser Trailer

ELATED: Takopi’s Original Sin Anime Adaptation Announced

Shinya Iino (Dr. STONE) directs and writes the series composition for the Takopi’s Original Sin anime at ENISHIYA with Keita Nagahara (Suzume unit director, Violet Evergarden key animator) drawing the character designs.

The two volumes of Takopi’s Original Sin have over 1.4 million copies in print, and the English version is available via VIZ Media and Shueisha’s MANGA Plus service. VIZ describes the series as such:

Cute little alien Takopi lands on Earth. What is his mission? To be taken to our leader? No. To spread happiness throughout the universe!

The first person Takopi meets is depressed fourth grader Shizuka. (Or is it…?) Takopi is determined to do whatever it takes to make Shizuka smile again. But his misguided attempts to help her by using his advanced technology to turn back time only result in mayhem and death.

What is the truth Takopi can’t remember? And what must the pink alien octopus with a heart of gold sacrifice to truly help Shizuka and her friends…?

Story of Takopi’s Original Sin

Takopi’s Original Sin (Takopii no Genzai) is a gripping and emotionally intense manga series by Taizan 5. It was serialized in Shueisha’s Shōnen Jump+ from December 2021 to March 2022. While no official anime adaptation has been announced as of now, the story has garnered significant attention for its dark themes, complex characters, and thought-provoking narrative.

Plot Overview

The story revolves around Takopi, a cheerful alien from the Happy Planet, who arrives on Earth with the mission of spreading happiness. Equipped with an arsenal of “happy gadgets,” Takopi is determined to help humanity, starting with Shizuka, a young girl he meets.

However, Takopi’s naïve optimism clashes with the harsh realities of Shizuka’s life. She is a deeply troubled girl who faces severe bullying at school and neglect at home. Despite Takopi’s well-meaning intentions, his attempts to help Shizuka often lead to unintended and tragic consequences.

The story delves into heavy themes such as bullying, abuse, and mental health, exploring the emotional struggles of its young characters in a raw and unflinching manner.

Main Characters

1. Takopi:
   • A squid-like alien from the Happy Planet, characterized by his innocent and overly optimistic demeanor.
   • While his “happy gadgets” are designed to bring joy, they often create chaos due to his lack of understanding of human emotions and consequences.
2. Shizuka:
   • A lonely and bullied girl who struggles with her emotions and the neglect she faces at home.
   • Her interactions with Takopi form the emotional core of the story, highlighting the complexity of her pain and her longing for genuine happiness.
3. Marino:
   • Shizuka’s classmate and one of her primary bullies.
   • Marino’s behavior stems from her own insecurities and a toxic environment, adding layers to her character.
4. Azuma:
   • Another classmate entangled in the web of bullying and interpersonal conflicts.
   • His role is pivotal in shaping the story’s events and emotional impact.

Key Themes

1. The Pursuit of Happiness

The story examines what happiness truly means and whether it can be achieved through external means or must come from within. Takopi’s gadgets serve as a metaphor for the limitations of superficial solutions to deep-seated problems.

2. The Complexity of Human Emotions

Takopi’s inability to fully understand human emotions highlights the complexity of feelings like pain, guilt, and empathy. The story emphasizes the importance of addressing these emotions rather than masking them.

3. The Impact of Trauma

Each character’s actions and struggles are deeply rooted in their personal traumas, offering a nuanced look at how pain manifests differently in individuals.

4. Consequences of Actions

The narrative explores the unintended consequences of even the most well-intentioned actions, showing that good intentions alone are not always enough.

Tone and Style

The series juxtaposes Takopi’s childlike innocence with the grim realities of human suffering. While its premise may initially seem lighthearted, the story quickly reveals its dark and thought-provoking nature. The artwork effectively conveys the emotional weight of the characters’ experiences, with stark contrasts between the whimsical designs of Takopi and the raw depiction of human struggles.

Reception

Takopi’s Original Sin has been praised for its bold storytelling, emotional depth, and ability to tackle difficult subjects. It has sparked discussions about mental health, societal pressures, and the importance of empathy.

While its dark tone may not be for everyone, those who appreciate thought-provoking narratives have found the series deeply impactful.

Potential Anime Adaptation

Fans have expressed strong interest in seeing Takopi’s Original Sin adapted into an anime. If adapted, it would likely follow the manga’s concise yet powerful storytelling, making for an emotionally resonant and visually striking series.

Conclusion
Takopi’s Original Sin is a hauntingly beautiful tale that challenges readers to reflect on the complexities of happiness, trauma, and human connection. Its blend of dark themes with a seemingly innocent premise makes it a standout work that leaves a lasting impression.

New cast member also revealed at Jump Festa 2025

The Aharen-san wa Hakarenai Jump Festa 2025 stage event today confirmed that the anime’s second season will begin airing in April 2025. The stage event also revealed that Nao Toyama (Rin in Laid-Back Camp) will voice Riku Tamanaha, a socially awkward gyaru transfer student.

RELATED: Aharen-san wa Hakarenai TV Anime Returns for Season 2

Based on the manga by DENKI-GAI creator Asato Mizu, Yasutaka Yamamoto (Nekopara) and Tomoe Makino (Kotaro Lives Alone) direct Aharen-san wa Hakarenai at studio Felix Film, with series composition by Takao Yoshioka (Horimiya), character designs by Yuko Yahiro (Kaguya-sama: Love is War) and music by Satoru Kosaki and MONACA (Hitoribocchi no Marumaruseikatsu).

Story ofAharen-san wa Hakarenai

Aharen-san wa Hakarenai, literally translating to Aharen Is Indecipherable, is a Japanese romantic comedy manga series by Asato Mizu that publishes under the Shōnen Jump+ app. It is published by Shueisha since 2017 and January to 2023 and gained an anime adaptation in 2022. It is identified for its funny one-liners, endearing characters, and a heartwarming show about friendship and budding romance.

Plot Summary
The story primarily revolves around how two high school students, Reina Aharen and Raidou Matsuboshi, eventually fall in love with each other from amidst everyday school life.

Reina Aharen: This is a short girl who tends to speak little, unable to cope with social cues and personal boundaries. Because of extreme shyness and inability to determine the distance between or closeness towards people, she sometimes comes off as unpredictable or “indescribable.”

Raidou Matsuboshi: She is his classmate, the tall and staid boy of wild imagination. Despite his ominous appearance, he is kind hearted and kind, taking all the trouble for himself to fathom Aharen’s peculiarities.

Key Themes

1. Eccentric Friendship
The core of the story is the growing friendship between Aharen and Raidou. Their interactions are a mix of absurd humor, heartfelt moments, and unconventional solutions to everyday situations. Raidou’s over-the-top interpretations of Aharen’s actions often lead to comedic misunderstandings, while Aharen’s earnest attempts to connect with others provide touching moments.

2. Slice-of-Life Comedy
Set primarily in their classroom and around school, the series thrives on its episodic structure, presenting a variety of comedic situations and slice-of-life scenarios. These include shared lunches, silly competitions, and bonding moments during school events.

3. Slow-Burning Romance
As their friendship grows, the series slowly brings romantic undertones. The show shows how their relationship develops by incorporating small yet meaningful gestures to signify their deepening affection for one another.

Supporting Characters
The story is complemented by an eccentric and lovable cast of side characters, such as:
Tobaru-sensei: Their extremely dramatic and flustered teacher.
Mitsuki Oshiro: Aharen’s childhood friend, who acts as her self-proclaimed protector but misinterprets Raidou’s intentions.
Futaba and Atsushi: Younger characters who look up to Aharen and Raidou as role models.
Why Fans Love It
Unique Humor: The series is a mix of absurdity and subtle comedy, often playing with Aharen’s unpredictable behavior and Raidou’s wild speculations.
Wholesome Relationships: The pure and innocent bond between Aharen and Raidou resonates with audiences, offering a feel-good experience.
Relatable Themes: Themes of overcoming social awkwardness and the value of patience and understanding in relationships make it relatable.
Cute and Quirky Dynamics: Aharen’s smallness in comparison to Raidou’s tallness and her erratic moves add visual and narrative charm.
Conclusion
Aharen-san wa Hakarenai is a lighthearted and heartwarming series that balances comedy with touching moments of friendship and budding romance. Its relatable characters, unique humor, and wholesome storytelling make it an enjoyable watch or read for fans of slice-of-life and romantic comedy genres.

The cat-ramen business is booming!

Following a stage event at Jump Festa 2025 today, the official accounts for the Ramen Akaneko TV anime cat-ered to the wishes of fans and confirmed that a second season is in production. A new illustration from original creator Angyaman was also unveiled.

Additional details, such as a release date, were not announced at the time of reporting

Following a stage event at Jump Festa 2025 today, the official accounts for the Ramen Akaneko TV anime cat-ered to the wishes of fans and confirmed that a second season is in production. A new illustration from original creator Angyaman was also unveiled.

Additional details, such as a release date, were not announced at the time of reporting

ELATED: JUJUTSU KAISEN Anime Heads to the Culling Game Arc in Super Teaser Visual

Based on the manga by Angyaman, Hisatoshi Shimizu (The Gymnastics Samurai) directed the first season Ramen Akanekoat studio E&H production, with series composition by Toru Kubo (Ninja Kamui animation producer), character designs by Michinori Chiba (SK8 the Infinity) and music by Hirotaka Matsuoka.

Manga Plus releases the series in English until the title Red Cat Ramen.

amen Akaneko (Red Cat Ramen) is a Japanese manga series written and illustrated by Angyaman. It started its serialization on Shueisha’s Shōnen Jump+ app and website in March 2022 and was then adapted into an anime television series by E&H Production, airing from July to September 2024.

Story of Ramen Akaneko

The story revolves around the ramen shop called Ramen Akaneko run totally by talking cats. The story revolves around Tamako Yashiro-a young woman whose previous job didn’t treat her well. Feeling encouraged by her aunt, who tells her she should apply in this rather uncommon place, the young woman moves on to more promising pastures. She leaves her job although she is in fact a ‘dog person, but she lands a job managing the felines, mainly petting them as well as smoothing out the problems of the eatery. BENEATH THE TANGLES
Key feline players are:

Bunzo: The head chef, an orange cat who is semi-gruff yet professional.
Sasaki: The owner and finance/business expert.
Sabu: The sous-chef, who also participates in online gaming competitions.
Hana: The customer service manager.
Krishna: A Bengal tiger in charge of the house-made base ramen noodles, and order maintainer when the situation calls for it.

The story revolves around Tamako’s everyday interactions with her feline colleagues and the hardships and funny moments that occur when cats run a restaurant. This series is a combination of cooking, comedy, and slice-of-life genres and is a warm-hearted depiction of human-animal relationships.

Reception
“
Ramen Akaneko” has been quite popular, scoring 7.37 on MyAnimeList, ranked #2478 in popularity, and a devoted fanbase

Availability

The anime is currently available for streaming on sites such as Crunchyroll and Ani-One Asia, but that might differ regionally.

Conclusion

This show “Ramen Akaneko” offers an entertaining story filled with whiffy sweetness with both fans of culinary storylines and fans of cat-related narratives. This peculiar storyline combined with endearing characters makes for an excellent show in case of any light-hearted experience a viewer wishes to engage himself with.

why fan love Ramen Akaneko

Fans love Ramen Akaneko (Red Cat Ramen) for several reasons, as it combines heartwarming storytelling with unique and entertaining elements. Here are some of the key aspects that have endeared the anime to viewers:

1. Unique Concept

The idea of a ramen shop run by talking cats is both whimsical and original. The blend of culinary themes with anthropomorphic feline characters offers a fresh and entertaining twist, appealing to fans of both food-themed stories and animal-centric narratives.

2. Charming and Diverse Characters

The show features a delightful cast of characters, each with distinct personalities that bring humor and depth to the story:

• Bunzo: The gruff but skilled head chef, whose dedication to ramen is both inspiring and amusing.
• Hana: The friendly and customer-oriented manager who adds warmth to the team.
• Tamako Yashiro: The human protagonist, whose journey of self-discovery and integration into the cat-run world resonates with viewers.

The relationships and interactions between Tamako and the feline staff are both heartfelt and comedic, making for an engaging dynamic.

3. Blend of Comedy and Slice-of-Life

The show balances lighthearted humor with touching moments. Fans appreciate the comedic mishaps of running a ramen shop with cats—like feline antics disrupting service—alongside heartfelt moments where Tamako and the cats learn valuable lessons about teamwork, perseverance, and kindness.

4. Foodie Appeal

The detailed and beautifully animated scenes of ramen preparation are a feast for the eyes. From the sizzling broths to the perfectly arranged toppings, the show captures the artistry of ramen-making, appealing to food lovers and inspiring cravings.

5. Wholesome and Relaxing Atmosphere

In a world filled with action-packed or intense dramas, Ramen Akaneko offers a cozy and comforting viewing experience. Its gentle pace, warm interactions, and low-stakes conflicts make it a perfect anime for relaxing and unwinding.

6. Endearing Themes

The show explores themes of:

• Community: How a diverse group of individuals can come together to achieve common goals.
• Personal Growth: Tamako’s journey of finding purpose and confidence after overcoming personal struggles.
• Human-Animal Connection: The bonds between humans and animals, even in a fantastical setting, resonate with pet lovers.

7. High-Quality Animation

The animation is vibrant and polished, with detailed character designs and cozy settings that enhance the overall charm. The cats’ expressive faces and movements are particularly praised for their lifelike yet humorous depiction.

8. Relatable and Uplifting

The struggles Tamako faces—adapting to a new environment, finding self-worth, and building relationships—are universal and relatable. The show’s optimistic tone and resolution of conflicts leave viewers feeling uplifted.

9. Fan-Centric Moments

The anime includes nods to cat lovers, with playful cat behavior (like pawing at noodles or napping on counters) adding a layer of authenticity and charm. These moments make it especially enjoyable for fans of feline antics.

10. Cross-Audience Appeal

While the premise might initially seem niche, Ramen Akaneko appeals to a broad audience:

• Foodies love the culinary focus.
• Cat lovers enjoy the feline characters.
• Slice-of-life fans appreciate the character-driven storytelling and heartwarming themes.

Conclusion
Fans adore Ramen Akaneko for its unique blend of humor, warmth, and creativity. Its ability to tell a simple yet captivating story with relatable themes and lovable characters makes it a standout in the slice-of-life genre. Whether you’re a fan of cats, ramen, or uplifting tales, this anime has something special to offer.

Passione will handle anime production for the new season

The official Chained Soldier anime stage event at Jump Festa 2025 today announced that Kana Hanazawa (Ichika Nakano in The Quintessential Quintuplets) is cast as Ren Yamashiro, the Chief of the Anti-Demon Corps’ 10th Unit, in the anime’s upcoming second season.

Ren’s character voice was already featured in the teaser trailer for the second season announcement released in March.

RELATED: Chained Soldier TV Anime Season 2 Confirmed

The first season of the TV anime adaptation of Takahiro (story) and Yohei Takemura’s (arts) action fantasy manga aired for 12 episodes from January to March 2024.

As previously reported, Masafumi Tamura (Ange Vierge, The Misfit of Demon King Academy II), newly serves as the director in place of Season 1’s Goro Kuji. Keiya Nakano (Keijo!!!!!!!!) is the new character designer in place of Season 1’s Hiroyuki Yoshii, and Passione will work on anime production.

Junji Nishimura served as general director and Goro Kuji directed the first season of the anime at animation studio Seven Arcs.

The original Chained Soldier manga is written by Takahiro, illustrated by Yohei Takamura and published by Shueisha in Shonen Jump+ magazine. An English language version is also available from Yen Press. HIDIVE streams the first season and describes the anime:

To save the world, Yuuki must be willing to become Commander Kyouka’s servant both on the battlefield and at home.

Story of Chained Soldier

Chained Soldier, or Mato Seihei no Slave, is a Japanese manga written by Takahiro and illustrated by Yohei Takemura. This is an action manga with supernatural elements and servitude, trust, and camaraderie in a dystopian world. Here’s the full story summary:

Background
The story is set in a world where mysterious portals called Mato have opened, and an alternate dimension filled with monsters called Shuuki has emerged. In the Mato, special fruits called Peaches give supernatural abilities only to women, creating a new class of powerful female warriors who are tasked with protecting humanity from the Shuuki.

Protagonist: Yuuki Wakura
He is Yuuki Wakura, a high school student who just happens to end up in the Mato trying to help a girl. Luckily for him, he is saved by Kyouka Uzen, a commander of the Anti-Demon Corps, a kind of military unit fighting the Shuuki.

The Servitude Contract
Kyouka has a unique ability to transform others into her “slaves,” which endows them with great power that they have to use according to her command. Yuuki accepts becoming Kyouka’s slave to survive and fight Shuuki properly. In this slave state, he has the highest strength and fighting powers but remains a slave under her control during the transformation.

The contract, though unpleasantly worded, Kyouka is gentle and respectful of Yuuki and the two end up entering a mutually beneficial relationship as equals with confidence in each other.

Anti-Demon Corps and the Five Houses
Yuuki becomes a member of Kyouka’s unit, Anti-Demon Corps, comprising five elite families that specialize in specific combat techniques and powers. The members are female warriors gifted with Peach’s powers to fight Shuuki and save human race.

Main heroines include:

Kyouka Uzen: The harsh yet caring leader who can make others slaves to be used for battle.
Himari Azuma: A bubbly and energetic character who clicks very quickly with Yuuki.
Shushu Suruga: A cool as-ice and introverted swordswoman with a sense of justice.
Every single character holds different dynamics in the story, depending on their relations with Yuuki and Kyouka.

Main Story Arcs
1. The Introduction Arc
Yuuki entered the dangerous world of Mato and was made into slave to Kyouka. He trained for mastery of his new powers while figuring out the strange ways of being beneath a strong female group.

2. Shuuki Threat Intensifies
The Shuuki become increasingly aggressive, leading to intense battles that push the corps to their limits. Yuuki’s unique ability as Kyouka’s slave proves invaluable, as his strength often turns the tide of battle.

3. The Five Families Conflict
Rivalries and politics create internal tension within the Five Families, leading to conflicts with the unity of the Anti-Demon Corps. Yuuki and Kyouka are tasked to handle this scenario while exploring other secrets concerning Mato’s, Shuuki, and true Peach origins.
4. Growth of Yuuki and the Background of Kyouka
Yuuki starts to gain more confidence and skill, no longer relying on Kyouka’s power. Meanwhile, Kyouka’s past is unfolded, which gives insight into her motivations and the sacrifices she has made as a commander.

5. The Mato’s Hidden Secrets
This opens up to revelations about the truth of the Mato, Shuuki, and the peaches’ beginning. All of these set in place even higher battles and morals.

Themes

Trust and Partnership:
The progression of Yuuki and Kyouka’s master-slave to a deep-rooted partnership established on trust and mutual respect has been the biggest theme of all.

Strength and Vulnerability:
The series delves into the balance between strength and vulnerability, revealing that even the strongest warriors have fears and weaknesses.

Power Dynamics:
The story delves into the complexities of power dynamics: literal servitude in the form of Yuuki and societal roles imposed by the Peaches.

Camaraderie:
The bonds between the characters, especially within Kyouka’s unit, highlight the importance of teamwork and solidarity in overcoming challenges.

Conclusion
Chained Soldier is a fast-paced and action-packed story that combines thrilling battles with character-driven moments. The evolving relationships, mysteries of the Mato, and themes of trust and growth make it an engaging read. While the premise involves servitude, the series treats its characters with depth, focusing on their personal struggles and aspirations.

Fans of supernatural action with a twist will surely find Chained Soldier an enthralling adventure full of action, camaraderie, and heartfelt moments.

The next part of the Blue Exorcist anime premieres on January 4, 2025

he official Blue Exorcist anime stage event at Jump Festa 2025 today revealed a main trailer introducing a new opening and ending theme songs for the upcoming new arc, -The Blue Night Saga- , which is set to premiere in Japan on January 4, 2025. Crunchyroll will also stream teh new arc as part of the winter 2025 anime simulcast lineup.

The trailer also introduces four new characters and cast members: Yuri Egin voiced by Megumi Hayashibara, Shiro Fujimoto in his childhood voiced by Daisuke Namikawa, Rick Lincoln voiced by Miyu Irino, and Jenny Kal by Ryo Hirohashi.

Blue Exorcist -The Blue Night Saga- Trailer

RELATED: Blue Exorcist- The Blue Night Saga -Anime debut on January 4 2025

The new opening “Tsukaku” (“Sense of Pain”) is performed by Japanese rock band amazarashi, known for theme songs featured in My Hero Academia (2017), 86 EIGHTY-SIX (2021) and NieR:Automata Ver1.1a (2023). The song will be available digitally on the anime’s premiere day in Japan, and the CD release will follow on February 5.

Message from amazarashi:

We are amazarashi, and we sang the opening theme song for “Blue Exorcist.” The song “Tukaku” is about a person who comes into contact with the light through encounters with others and eventually finds hope in spite of their suffering. We created this song while thinking about Rin’s struggles so far and the wish entrusted by Shiro. We hope that this song will add color to this series, which is finally approaching the heart of the “Blue Night”. Thank you very much.

Story of blue exorcist-

Blue Exorcist, also known as Ao no Exorcist, is a Japanese manga and anime series written by Kazue Kato. The action series incorporates elements of the supernatural and addresses important themes such as family, identity, and destiny in a world where humans and demons live together but are separated by an almost invisible wall. Underneath is the plot of the story:

Setting
In the world of Blue Exorcist, there are two dimensions:

Assiah: The everyday human world where life goes on.
Gehenna: The demon world, which is ruled by Satan, the most powerful demon.
Though these dimensions are different, demons often intrude into Assiah through human or object possessions. To counter such an invasion, Exorcists are trained to fight and exorcise demons.
Protagonist: Rin Okumura
The story revolves around the life of Rin Okumura, a mischievous teenage boy raised by his adoptive father, Shiro Fujimoto, in a monastery. He is an exorcist and a priest with immense powers. Rin always feels out of place because of his fiery temper and unexplained strength, which puts him in stark contrast to his twin brother, Yukio, who is calm, intelligent, and physically weaker.

The Revelation
His life changes, though, when he finds out he is Satan’s son. He begins to reveal his demonic heritage and to produce blue flames—a signature mark of Satan’s power. Demons attack the monastery to get him, but Shiro sacrifices himself for Rin.

He is destroyed by Shiro’s death, and he makes a promise to himself that he will become an Exorcist and defeat Satan. Despite the fear of isolation, he carries the demon-slaying sword Kurikara, which has his flames within it and assists him in his control over power.

Relationship of Rin and Yukio
Rin learns that Yukio has always known about his heritage and was already an exorcist. Unlike Rin, Yukio inherited no flames of Satan but anger and jealousy against his brother. Their relationship becomes a central theme, full of tension, misunderstanding, and an intense bond constantly tested.

True Cross Academy
Rin joins the prestigious school called True Cross Academy, which at the same time is a training ground for exorcists. There, he meets a few aspiring exorcists, among them:

Shiemi Moriyama: A gentle and kind-hearted girl with a natural talent for summoning and healing.
Ryūji Suguro (Bon): A strict and disciplined student with a very strong sense of duty.
Renzo Shima: A laid-back but very cunning exorcist.
Konekomaru Miwa: A timid and loyal friend.
Hiding the true identity as a son of Satan, Rin begins training for perfect mastery over flames and develops sufficient strength to engage in demon battling and safeguarding his friends.

Super teaser visual arrives along with release window at Jump Festa

ission: Yozakura Family season 2 was first announced along with the conclusion of the first season adapting Hitsuji Gondaira’s manga back in October. Now, thanks to a Jump Festa 2025 announcement, we know we can expect it to debut sometime in 2026.

The official accounts shared the following teaser visual with the news:

RELATED:Mission: Yozakura Family Anime Continues with Second Season

The original Mission: Yozakura Family manga by Hitsuji Gondaira is serialized in Shueisha’s Weekly Shonen Jump manga magazine. VIZ Media also publishes an English language version. Mirai Minato writes and directs the TV anime adaptation at animation studio SILVER LINK., Mizuki Takahashi serves as chief animation director and provides the character designs, and Koji Fujimoto and Osamu Sasaki of Sus4 Inc. provide the music.

VIZ Media describes Mission: Yozakura Family:

Taiyo Asano is a super-shy high school student and the only person he can talk to is his childhood friend Mutsumi Yozakura. However, Mutsumi comes from a line of master spies with amazing powers. Her oldest brother, Kyoichiro, is obsessed with Mutsumi and out to kill anyone who gets remotely near her—and his next target is Taiyo! The only way for Taiyo to save himself from Kyoichiro’s murderous clutches is to marry Mutsumi!

Story of MHA

Protagonist

The story follows Izuku Midoriya, a Quirkless boy who dreams of becoming the greatest hero. Despite being bullied for his lack of powers, Izuku idolizes the Number One Hero, All Might.

Main Plot

1. Izuku Meets All Might:
   • Izuku’s life changes when he meets All Might, who reveals his true form as a weakened hero. Seeing Izuku’s determination and selflessness, All Might chooses him as his successor to inherit his Quirk, One For All—a power passed down from one hero to another.
2. Training and UA High School:
   • After rigorous training, Izuku gains One For All and enrolls in U.A. High School, Japan’s top academy for heroes-in-training. He joins Class 1-A, full of aspiring heroes with unique Quirks, including rivals like Katsuki Bakugo and allies like Ochaco Uraraka and Shoto Todoroki.
3. Villains Rise:
   • The League of Villains, led by Tomura Shigaraki, emerges as a major threat. The league seeks to destroy hero society, challenging the ideals of heroes like All Might. They are backed by All For One, the mysterious villain who opposes One For All.
4. Hero Battles and Growth:
   • The students face numerous challenges, including the U.S.J. attack, the Sports Festival, and the Internship Arc, where they learn from professional heroes. Izuku grows stronger, mastering One For All and developing his unique fighting style.
5. All Might vs. All For One:
   • All Might defeats All For One in a climactic battle but loses his remaining power, retiring as a hero. This marks a turning point, with society relying on new heroes like Endeavor and the students of U.A.
6. Paranormal Liberation War:
   • The heroes clash with the Paranormal Liberation Front, a massive villain organization. The battle results in heavy casualties and a loss of public trust in heroes. Shigaraki becomes a near-unstoppable force after inheriting All For One’s powers.
7. Izuku’s Vigilante Journey:
   • To protect his friends, Izuku leaves U.A. and operates as a lone vigilante, honing his abilities and uncovering secrets about One For All. His journey emphasizes themes of sacrifice and the burden of heroism.
8. Final Battle:
   • The series culminates in an all-out war between heroes and villains. Izuku confronts Shigaraki and All For One, striving to uphold the ideals of heroism while uniting others to stand against despair.

Themes

• Heroism: The story explores what it means to be a hero, focusing on sacrifice, perseverance, and moral responsibility.
• Legacy: The transfer of One For All symbolizes the passing of ideals and the continuity of hope.
• Society: The series critiques societal structures, including the flawed hero system and the marginalization of villains.

My Hero Academia (Boku no Hero Academia) is a wildly popular Japanese manga and anime series created by Kohei Horikoshi. Set in a world where superpowers, known as Quirks, are the norm, the series blends superhero action with emotional storytelling, character growth, and thought-provoking themes. This comprehensive summary covers the main story arcs, characters, and themes of the series, making it perfect for fans or newcomers curious about its world.

The World of My Hero Academia

In the universe of My Hero Academia, Quirks began appearing in humanity several generations ago, and today, 80% of the global population possesses some form of superhuman ability. Society adapted to this new normal, leading to the establishment of professional heroes who use their Quirks to maintain order and fight villains.

Despite its glamorous surface, hero society has its flaws. The pressure to become a hero, the competitive nature of the profession, and the marginalization of individuals with unusual or “villainous-looking” Quirks have led to a society rife with inequality and unrest.

The story centers on Izuku Midoriya, a kind and determined boy born without a Quirk. Despite being bullied by his peers, especially his childhood friend-turned-rival Katsuki Bakugo, Izuku dreams of becoming a great hero like his idol, the legendary All Might, who is regarded as the “Symbol of Peace.”

Izuku’s life takes a dramatic turn when he encounters All Might in a chance meeting. When All Might sees Izuku risk his life to save Bakugo despite having no powers, he is moved by the boy’s courage. All Might decides to pass on his Quirk, One For All, a unique ability that can be inherited and grows stronger with each successor.

MHA Key Visual

A special illustration by character designer Shimada Kazuaki was release

Story:

• A spy on an undercover mission gets married and adopts a child as part of his cover. His wife and daughter have secrets of their own, and all three must strive to keep together.
• A spy known only as Twilight needs a family as part of his undercover mission, so he quickly marries a city hall worker and adopts a child and dog. Unknown to him, his family has secrets of their own: his wife Yor is an undercover assassin, his daughter Anya is a runaway psychic who can read minds, and his dog was from a laboratory that gave him the power to tell the future. All these four subjects must bond together as a family to manage their own affairs and be together as best as they can.

Despite the many distractions, Operation Strix continues earnestly in the third season of the domestic espionage series SPY x FAMILY. At today’s Jump Festa 2025 stage, the cast revealed that SPY x FAMILY Season 3 is set to premiere in October 2025. Alongside the announcement, a celebratory visual was released — showing Anya and Bond as adorable as always — by character designer Shimada Kazuaki.

RELATED: SPY x FAMILY Season 3 TV Anime Officially Announced

atsuya Endo began serializing the original SPY x FAMILY manga in Shonen Jump+ in March 2019, with 14 volumes released in Japan to date. VIZ Media releases the English version of the manga.

The first season of the SPY x FAMILY TV anime premiered between April and October 2022, with the second season premiering in October 2023. Kazuhiro Furuhashi directed Season 1 at both CloverWorks and WIT Studio, with Takahiro Harada joining in on directing duties for Season 2

escribes the series as such:

World peace is at stake and secret agent Twilight must undergo his most difficult mission yet—pretend to be a family man. Posing as a loving husband and father, he’ll infiltrate an elite school to get close to a high-profile politician. He has the perfect cover, except his wife’s a deadly assassin and neither knows each other’s identity. But someone does, his adopted daughter who’s a telepath!

A new visual and cast were also announced at Jump Festa 2025

Story of blue box

Taiki Inomata, a third-year student in junior high, attends Eimei Academy, an integrated school with a major sports program. Having joined the high school badminton team, Taiki tries to attend open practice as early as possible. But no matter how early he goes, he always arrives second in the gymnasium. The person one step ahead of him is Chinatsu Kano, a first-year student in senior high and Taiki’s crush.

Chinatsu is the rising star of the basketball team, and the gap between her and Taiki could not be greater. Although Taiki is a decent badminton player, his popularity is nowhere near Chinatsu’s, making it even less likely for his feelings to be reciprocated. However, in a strange twist of fate, she ends up living in Taiki’s house!

Wanting to become a worthy match for Chinatsu, Taiki pursues the same dream as his crush: to partake in the Nationals. Taiki starts training harder than ever before, all for the sake of building a strong relationship with his new housemate.

As the currently-airing anime adaptation approaches its halfway point, the Blue Box Jump Festa 2025 stage event today released a brand-new trailer, key visual, theme song details and more cast for the sports rom-com series’ second cour. The anime’s broadcast resumes on January 2, 2025.

Macaroni Empitsu (Oblivion Batteryending theme song) performs “Saraba” for the next opening song and TOMOO performs “Contrast” for the next ending song, both of which are previewed in the trailer below, while the visual’s tagline reads, “The one I like is—.

Blue Box Cour 2 Trailer

Blue Box Cour 2 Key Visual

RELATED: Blue Box Anime Plays It by Ear in Creditless Opening, Ending Song Videos

Based on the manga by Koji Miura, Yuichiro Yano (LUPIN THE 3rd PART 5) directs the Blue Box anime at studio Telecom Animation Film, with series composition by Yuko Kakihara (The Apothecary Diaries), character designs by Miho Tanino (Tower of God) and music by Takashi Omama (Mobile Suit Gundam: The Witch from Mercury).

describes the story:

Taiki admires Chinatsu from afar, but he doubts that she sees him in the same way. Yet somehow, he musters up the courage to tell her to never give up on her dreams! After such a bold declaration, will Taiki’s fleeting high school romance finally begin?