A Ton of Japanese Animation Updates Dropped During the Holidays
The winter break provide a plethora of pastimes considerably more enjoyable than checking the headlines: opening presents, indulging in delicious food, and using meditation skills to not yelling at loved ones. I hope you were able to do all these things and more. That said, the showbiz industry doesn't go on vacation, and this is particularly true for the realm of anime. Numerous thrilling developments came out during the festive period, and just in case you missed any, here is a roundup of the biggest bits.
The One-Punch Man Series Season 3 Is Moving Forward (In 2027)
Without a doubt the most surprising piece of news, the much-discussed troubled production that was the third season of One-Punch Man proved insufficient to halt more episodes. Season 3 will return with a second cour in 2027—such a distant date they could have called it season 4. Adding to the surprise, animation studio J.C. Staff will remain at the helm. At least this time, director Shinpei Nagai is set to direct from the beginning, which is seen as a good sign. But, the main art for the continuation is identical to the one used for season 3, just with characters Saitama and Garou oriented differently. This leads one to believe that, at this point, they could be teasing the fans.
The Ruri Dragon Series Is Poised to Be the First Shonen Jump Anime By Kyoto Animation
Kyoto Animation has established a standing for being an prestigious animation studio, setting itself apart not just for the high caliber of its output but for the good working conditions of its employees—a rarity in the industry. Curiously, until now, it had never worked on an anime based on a manga serialized in Shonen Jump, possibly the most iconic magazine in the industry. Ruri Dragon will break that tradition, and what a great choice it is. The manga by Masaoki Shindo became a huge following when it first appeared in 2022 after just a handful of installments, but then went into a lengthy break due to the author's health issues. When it came back with a lighter schedule, the series demonstrated it maintained the fans' support and enthusiasm, and now the community is overjoyed about the impending KyoAni adaptation.
The Kingdom Series Season 6 Will Get a Sequel Currently in Production
Kingdom is the best-selling, epic Shueisha manga that is other than One Piece. If you've are unfamiliar with it before, it's because it only fairly recently obtained an English localization, but the anime has been going on for years, and season 6 was a further excellent entry. It turns out that was just the first half, because a "sequel" has been announced as currently being made, and it will probably air in 2026.
Science Saru Will Adapt A Witch in Mongolia Into an Anime Series
Another studio famous for the superior craftsmanship of its projects, Science Saru has brought us hit shows of the ilk of Space Dandy, Devilman Crybaby, and, more recently, Dandadan. This time, the studio will be taking on the adaptation of Tomato Soup's manga A Witch's Life in Mongol, inspired by the true story of Fatima, an powerful woman and scholar in the Mongol Empire in the 13th century. Based on the trailer, the anime named Jaadugar: A Witch in Mongolia will have a truly original and fascinating visual style, which is somewhat reminiscent of Ranking of Kings. Set to premiere in July 2026, this one will without a doubt be on my watchlist.
The Tougen Anki Series Will Continue With a Season Two
Immediately following the airing of the final episode of the first season, it was announced that Tougen Anki will be receiving a sequel. Inspired by the Japanese legend of Momotaro, Tougen Anki adapts the manga by Yura Urushibara. The upcoming season of the anime will adapt the Nikko Kegon Falls Arc, but a specific air date has yet to be revealed.
