A Heap of Japanese Animation News Dropped Over the Holidays
The Yuletide season provide a plethora of activities far superior than catching up on the latest news: unwrapping gifts, feasting on festive fare, and harnessing patience techniques to not snapping at family members. It is wished you were able to enjoy all these things and more. However, the entertainment world never sleeps, and this is notably true for the realm of anime. Numerous exciting developments came out over the holidays, and if you didn't see any, here is a summary of the biggest bits.
One-Punch Man Its Third Season Will Continue (By 2027)
Without a doubt the biggest announcement, the notorious troubled production that was the third season of One-Punch Man wasn't enough to deter more episodes. The show will return with a second cour in 2027—so far away they could have called it season 4. More surprisingly, the studio J.C. Staff will remain leading the project. On a positive note this time, director Shinpei Nagai is on board to direct from the beginning, which might be a good sign. But, the key visual for the continuation is a mirror of the one used for season 3, just with characters Saitama and Garou facing different directions. This makes me think that, nowadays, they are probably mocking the fans.
Ruri Dragon Will Be the First Shonen Jump Anime Produced By Kyoto Animation
Kyoto Animation has established a name for being an prestigious animation studio, distinguishing itself not just for the high caliber of its productions but for the good working conditions of its employees—a uncommon practice in the industry. Unexpectedly, until now, it had never worked on an anime stemming from a manga serialized in Shonen Jump, arguably the best-known magazine in the industry. Ruri Dragon will end that streak, and what a excellent choice it is. The manga by Masaoki Shindo achieved massive popularity when it first appeared in 2022 after just a handful of installments, but then went into a two-year hiatus due to the mangaka's health issues. When it resumed publication with a lighter schedule, the series demonstrated it maintained the fans' support and enthusiasm, and now the community is thrilled about the impending KyoAni adaptation.
Kingdom Season 6 Has a Sequel Currently in Production
Kingdom is the best-selling, epic Shueisha manga that is not One Piece. If you've are unfamiliar with 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 outstanding entry. As it happens that was just the first half, because a "sequel" has been announced as in development, and it will very likely debut in 2026.
Science Saru Will Adapt A Witch in Mongolia To Anime
A further studio renowned for the artistic merit of its productions, Science Saru has delivered hit shows of the ilk of Space Dandy, Devilman Crybaby, and, more recently, Dandadan. This time, the studio will be producing 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 scholar in the Mongol Empire in the 13th century. Judging from the trailer, the anime named Jaadugar: A Witch in Mongolia will have a distinctly fresh and intriguing visual style, which reminds me a bit of Ranking of Kings. Scheduled to launch in July 2026, this one will absolutely be on my list of anticipated shows.
Tougen Anki Will Return With a Season Two
Shortly after the airing of the final episode of the first season, it was confirmed that Tougen Anki will be securing a second season. Based on the Japanese legend of Momotaro, Tougen Anki is based on the manga by Yura Urushibara. The second season of the anime will adapt the Nikko Kegon Falls Arc, but a firm air date has yet to be revealed.
