A Heap of Japanese Animation Updates Landed Over the Holidays
The winter break present a multitude of pastimes far superior than catching up on the latest news: unwrapping gifts, getting stuffed on delicious food, and harnessing deep breathing to not snapping at family members. I hope you succeeded in do all these things and more. That said, the entertainment world never sleeps, and this is notably true for the realm of anime. Many exciting announcements came out during the break, and if you overlooked a few, here is a roundup of the most exciting bits.
The One-Punch Man Series Season 3 Is Set to Continue (By 2027)
Without a doubt the most shocking announcement, the widely-criticized controversial season that was the third season of One-Punch Man wasn't enough to deter more episodes. Season 3 will come back with a subsequent part in 2027—so far away they easily could have dubbed it season 4. Even more shocking, animation studio J.C. Staff will remain in charge. At least this time, director Shinpei Nagai is on board to direct from the beginning, which is seen as a positive development. However, the main art for the new episodes is the same image the one used for season 3, just with protagonists Saitama and Garou facing different directions. This makes me think that, by now, they are probably teasing the fans.
The Ruri Dragon Series Is Set to Be the Premiere Shonen Jump Anime By Kyoto Animation
Kyoto Animation has established a standing for being an top-tier 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. Unexpectedly, until now, it had not adapted an anime adapted from a manga serialized in Shonen Jump, arguably 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 gained widespread acclaim when it launched in 2022 after just a small number of issues, but then went into a lengthy break due to the mangaka's health issues. When it resumed publication with a more relaxed pace, the series showed it maintained the fans' affection and goodwill, and now everyone is thrilled about the impending KyoAni adaptation.
The Kingdom Series Season 6 Has a Sequel In Production
Kingdom is the best-selling, decades-spanning Shueisha manga that is other than One Piece. If you've never heard of it before, it's because it only just received an English localization, but the anime has been going on for years, and its sixth season was a further excellent entry. Apparently that was just the initial batch, because a "sequel" has been announced as in production, and it will almost certainly air in 2026.
Science Saru Is Bringing A Witch in Mongolia Into an Anime Series
One more studio famous for the superior craftsmanship of its work, Science Saru has brought us masterpieces of the quality of Space Dandy, Devilman Crybaby, and, most recently, Dandadan. This time, the studio will be handling the adaptation of Tomato Soup's manga A Witch's Life in Mongol, which is based on the real historical figure of Fatima, an prominent woman and thinker in the Mongol Empire in the 13th century. From the trailer, the anime named Jaadugar: A Witch in Mongolia will have a truly original and intriguing visual style, which is somewhat reminiscent of Ranking of Kings. Debuting in July 2026, this one will without a doubt be on my watchlist.
Tougen Anki Is Set to Continue With a Second Season
Immediately following the conclusion of episode 24, it was announced that Tougen Anki will be getting a follow-up. Adapted from the Japanese legend of Momotaro, Tougen Anki adapts the manga by Yura Urushibara. The new season of the anime will cover the Nikko Kegon Falls Arc, but a concrete premiere date has yet to be revealed.
