Anime / Manga

The highly anticipated anime adaptation of Jura's 'My Girlfriend's Friend' manga has revealed its main trailer, a striking new visual, and additional voice cast members, setting its premiere for October 4, 2026. Produced by Studio Quad, the series promises a nuanced romantic thriller, notable for its parallel release of an uncensored 'Complete Deregula Version' alongside the standard on-air broadcast, catering to a broader range of audience preferences.

Nintendo has scheduled a two-day presentation event on September 8 and 9, kicking off with a 30-minute Legend of Zelda 40th Anniversary showcase followed by a comprehensive 45-minute general Nintendo Direct.

Gaming and toy enthusiasts are buzzing with the official reveal of the Lego PlayStation 1 console replica. Following an initial tease during Sony's September 2026 State of Play, the highly anticipated set is now confirmed with a price tag of $179.99 and an October 4, 2026, release date. Comprising 1,911 pieces, the intricate model recreates the iconic PS1 console, complete with an opening lid revealing detailed dioramas from classic titles 'Ape Escape' and 'Gran Turismo'. This collaboration between two global titans, Lego and Sony, continues a trend of brick-built retro gaming systems, catering to a burgeoning market of adult collectors eager to relive their gaming past.

Fans of the popular 'The Eminence in Shadow' franchise have reason to celebrate as the first-ever console game, 'The Eminence in Shadow: Phantom Echoes,' has been officially announced for a 2027 release. Revealed with a trailer at Sony's State of Play event, this single-player roguelite action game will extend the beloved light novel, manga, and anime series into a new interactive dimension across PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch 2, and PC platforms. The announcement marks a significant expansion for the franchise, coinciding with an upcoming anime film 'The Eminence in Shadow: Lost Echoes' also slated for 2027.

Gaming studio Poncle, renowned for the indie hit Vampire Survivors, is merging digital entertainment with real-world philanthropy through an innovative blood drive promotion. Running from September 2 to September 30, 2026, the initiative offers participants free copies of the base game and its Legacy of the Bloodmoon DLC across all major platforms. This campaign encourages not only actual blood donations but also financial contributions and creative social media engagement, with Poncle committing to match monetary donations up to $5,000 for the American Red Cross.

The highly anticipated Dragon Ball Super: Beerus anime adaptation has officially confirmed its October 11 premiere date. A new trailer, titled "SUPER SURGE," unveiled the opening theme "ONOGAMI" by MEGATERA・ZERO and the ending theme "Kan Peki no Peki" by VK Blanka, both artists expressing deep personal connections to the iconic franchise. This series is slated to bridge the gap toward the upcoming Dragon Ball Super: The Galactic Patrol (Moro Arc) anime, offering fans a refreshed look at Beerus's introductory saga. Furthermore, an exclusive world-premiere advance screening of the first episode is set for New York Comic Con on October 8, featuring English voice actors Jason Douglas (Beerus) and Ian Sinclair (Whis).

Electronic producer and composer DÉ DÉ MOUSE has completed a massive 55-track original score for the TV anime series Mebius Dust, scheduled for worldwide digital release on September 16 across streaming and download services.

The highly anticipated second season of the popular football anime 'Aoashi' has unveiled its main trailer, confirming an October 4 premiere date. This new season will see a notable change in animation production, with TMS Entertainment taking the reins from Production I.G. The trailer also offers a first listen to the new opening and ending theme songs, building excitement for the series' return.

Episode 11 of BanG Dream! YUME∞MITA delivers a powerful narrative on the challenges of the digital age, confronting online manipulation and the emotional aftermath of personal and professional 'breakups.' It highlights the importance of resilience against online vitriol, the path to redemption, and the understanding that endings often pave the way for new opportunities. The episode culminates in a significant solidification of the VTuber band MewType's internal bonds, demonstrating their growth amidst adversity.

Bandai Namco, through its Creer Beaute brand, is set to release a new line of Animal Crossing-themed multi-color powder makeup. Launching in Japan in September 2026, the collection will feature 12 distinct designs, primarily distributed through gashapon capsule machines and select retail stores, tapping into both collector culture and the enduring popularity of Nintendo's beloved franchise.

The manga 'A Timid Lady Was Turned into an Ugly Cat, but on the Verge of Fainting Is Picked Up by the Most Fearsome Military Duke' finds its true stride and unique appeal after its protagonist transforms into an 'ugly' cat. This narrative shift enhances its romantic comedy elements, deepens character insights, and offers a fresh take on classic shojo tropes, moving beyond initial generic setups.

The production team behind Mushoku Tensei: Jobless Reincarnation has confirmed that Season 3 Episode 11 is officially titled 'Turning Point 4'. Historically, the series uses the 'Turning Point' moniker exclusively for monumental narrative upheavals that permanently alter Rudeus Greyrat's trajectory.

Haneda Airport's Terminal 3 houses a unique Pokémon Stand vending machine offering exclusive flight attendant and pilot Pikachu plush keychains. These high-quality, airport-specific souvenirs are celebrated for their convenience, distinctive design, and the seamless shopping experience they provide, making them an ideal final memento for travelers leaving Japan.

Japanese audio manufacturer AVIOT is set to make a significant impression at Anime NYC 2026, the East Coast's premier anime convention. The company will debut and offer its distinctive line of character voice wireless earbuds, born from exclusive partnerships with major anime franchises, VTubers, and renowned voice actors. Attendees at the Javits Center in New York City will have the unique opportunity to experience these innovative audio devices firsthand, which combine high-fidelity sound with immersive fan-centric features, including custom voice guidance and specialized designs inspired by beloved animated worlds. This showcase underscores AVIOT's commitment to blending cutting-edge technology with the rich culture of Japanese entertainment.

An exclusive preview of Rockstar Games' highly anticipated Grand Theft Auto VI temporarily took down Netflix due to overwhelming demand, arriving shortly after a series of unauthorized gameplay leaks compelled Rockstar to address the situation publicly.

Hamee has opened pre-orders for a special Pixio NieR 15th anniversary gaming monitor, adorned with exclusive art of iconic characters 2B and Kaine. This limited edition, a variant of the popular Pixio PX278 Wave, is slated for a 2026 release in Japan and includes an acrylic mouse stand, further enriching the NieR series' ongoing 15th-anniversary celebrations.

Japanese audio brand AVIOT has announced pre-orders for its new TE-V1R-DJM true wireless earbuds, a special collaboration with the popular anime 'Delicious in Dungeon.' These premium earbuds, building on AVIOT's successful V Series, combine high-fidelity audio, advanced noise-canceling, and an impressive 62-hour battery life with exclusive character voice lines and unique design elements tailored for fans of the fantasy series.

Acclaimed anime director Makoto Shinkai marked the 10th anniversary of his groundbreaking film 'Your Name.' by sharing a never-before-seen early concept illustration. Released in Japan on August 26, 2016, the film went on to achieve global box office success and critical acclaim, redefining Japanese animation's international reach. Shinkai reflected on the movie's lasting impact on viewers and affirmed that despite its monumental success, the filmmaking process remains a challenging yet exciting endeavor as he continues work on his next project.

Gaming giant HoYoverse has officially revealed 'Nodusfall,' a new co-op action game that diverges sharply from its signature anime aesthetic, opting for a more realistic visual style. Unveiled at Gamescom 2026 Opening Night Live, the title promises an original fantasy world inspired by diverse global mythologies, where players, known as Weavers, confront a corrupting force called the Dreadnodi in strategic team-based combat.

Composer Taisei Iwasaki and multidisciplinary artist Mirai Moriyama have collaborated on 'po-ai', a new single for the TV anime 'The Ghost in the Shell'. Crafted through dialogue with AI and sung in an entirely synthetic language, the piece pays homage to Kobe's Port Island while setting the sonic foundation for the upcoming full soundtrack release.

Anime NYC 2026 recently concluded its ninth annual convention at the Jacob Javits Center in Manhattan, drawing thousands of enthusiastic fans for four days of immersive Japanese pop culture. The event proved to be a significant hub for exclusive merchandise, industry panels, and vibrant cosplay, highlighting the sustained global appeal of anime and manga. While celebrating considerable growth and organizational improvements, the convention also underscored persistent challenges related to attendee management and staff coordination, setting the stage for crucial refinements as it approaches its milestone 10th anniversary.

The fourth season of the 'Tokyo Revengers' anime, titled 'War of the Three Titans Arc,' has unveiled a new trailer and key visual, confirming an October 2 premiere date exclusively on Disney+. The upcoming season marks a significant transition with Maki Kodaira taking over as director and will introduce pivotal characters like the founding members of Black Dragon and South Terano, promising heightened stakes following the 'Tenjiku Arc.' The series continues its journey after the manga's conclusion, navigating a crucial phase for its anime adaptation.

FromSoftware's highly anticipated PvPvE title, The Duskbloods, recently held a network test offering players an early glimpse into its intricate world and combat mechanics. Among the playable characters, Layla, a sniper-focused Bloodsworn, emerged as a significant standout. Her unique blend of precision ranged attacks, a tactical escape ability, and an intriguing 'Sigil of an Old Friend' mechanic that encourages temporary player alliances, suggests a nuanced approach to the competitive multiplayer genre. The network test, set for August 2026 on the Switch 2, highlights FromSoftware's continued innovation beyond its renowned Soulsborne series.

The TV anime adaptation of Kana Yoshimura's dark crime-action manga, MURCIÉLAGO, has officially set its broadcast and streaming debut for January 2027. This narrowed release window, confirmed at Anime NYC, builds upon the initial 2027 announcement made earlier this year. HIDIVE will exclusively simulcast the series in key international markets, marking a significant entry for the streaming platform. The production features a notable creative team, including chief director Takashi Naoya and director Matsuo Asami, with animation handled by Satelight and Staple Entertainment, bringing the popular manga with over 2.3 million copies in circulation to life.

Japanese audio brand AVIOT has launched a special collection of true wireless earbuds inspired by the globally popular anime series, Jujutsu Kaisen. These aren't just cosmetic re-skins; the collection offers three distinct models based on key arcs and characters, integrating over 250 newly recorded voice lines, exclusive designs, and sophisticated sound tuning overseen by the anime's own composer and music director. Built upon AVIOT's advanced TE-V1R base model, the earbuds boast features like Adaptive Hybrid Noise Canceling, LDAC support for high-resolution audio, ultra-long battery life, and wireless charging, aiming to deliver an immersive audio experience that deeply resonates with fans.

Fans of the sprawling Fate franchise have reason to rejoice as a new anime season for Fate/strange Fake has been officially confirmed. The announcement, accompanied by a compelling teaser visual and the defiant slogan 'Rise Against the Rules,' promises a continuation of the irregular Holy Grail War narrative. Animated by A-1 Pictures and based on Ryohgo Narita's light novel series, the anime delves into a unique conflict in Snowfield, Nevada, where a botched ritual diverges dramatically from traditional Grail Wars. This highly anticipated continuation follows the first 13-episode season that premiered in January 2026, building upon the foundations laid by the 'Whispers of Dawn' TV special and a special pre-release of Episode 1 in late 2024.

Japanese audio brand AVIOT has announced a special edition of its TE-V1R true wireless earbuds, a highly anticipated collaboration with the iconic anime series Neon Genesis Evangelion. These premium earbuds offer an immersive experience for fans, integrating over 160 newly recorded voice lines from nine characters, distinctive designs inspired by the series, and an exclusive packaging illustration. Crucially, the sound profile has been meticulously tuned by Yoko Takahashi, the acclaimed singer behind Evangelion's most famous theme songs, ensuring an authentic auditory journey that resonates with the series' legacy. Built upon AVIOT's high-grade V-series technology, the earbuds combine advanced features like Adaptive Hybrid Noise Canceling, Hybrid Dual Driver 2.0, and LDAC™ support with bespoke anime integration, creating a unique intersection of pop culture and high-fidelity audio.

Japanese publishing giant Shueisha is embarking on an ambitious global initiative called MANGA MILLION, launching on August 6, 2026, to coincide with its centennial. This project will make an unprecedented one million pages of manga accessible to readers worldwide, translated into 100 languages, all available free of charge and without registration for a limited period. The move aims to break down language barriers and introduce Japanese manga to new global audiences.

The annual Haikyu!! Day celebration on August 19, 2026, delivered a comprehensive update on the future of the beloved volleyball franchise. Fans were treated to fresh details regarding upcoming anime projects, including the second film 'Haikyu the Movie: VS The Little Giant' and the special anime 'Haikyu!! Where Monsters Go,' both slated for 2027. Beyond animation, significant announcements covered new manga collections, strategic collaborations, a major character exhibition in Tokyo, and merchandise, signaling a multi-faceted expansion of the Haikyu!! universe designed to engage its global fanbase.

The renowned creator of Black Clover, Yuki Tabata, surprised fans with an original illustration of Toru Oikawa from Haikyu!!, unveiled during the annual 'Haikyu!! Day' celebrations. This artistic crossover, marking a new card for the 'Haikyu!! Vobaca!! BREAK' game, was part of a larger slate of announcements that reaffirmed the enduring vitality of the Haikyu!! franchise. Fans were also treated to news regarding forthcoming anime projects, new stage productions, updates for its art exhibition, and the streaming debut of the latest movie, 'HAIKYU: The Dumpster Battle,' on major platforms.

A new regulatory hurdle has hit the world of anime streaming, as the popular dark comedy "Chainsmoker Cat" finds itself abruptly pulled from several digital platforms in Hong Kong. The move stems from allegations by the city's Department of Health that the series, which depicts anthropomorphic cat girls grappling with nicotine and other substance dependencies, violates local public health ordinances related to tobacco advertising. This incident ignites a complex debate about artistic freedom, content regulation, and the interpretation of media in diverse cultural and legal landscapes, particularly concerning how "depiction" can be conflated with "promotion."

Gosho Aoyama, the revered mangaka behind the global phenomenon Detective Conan, recently confirmed during a television appearance that he has completed a storyboard draft for the manga's concluding chapter. This revelation, made to an audience of enthusiastic fans and fellow creators, signals an approaching climax for the beloved series that has captivated readers for over three decades. While Aoyama kept specifics of the ending under wraps, the news has ignited widespread discussion among fans and within the industry about the legacy and ultimate resolution of one of Japan's most enduring detective stories. The creator also reflected on the series' unexpected journey to international fame, a success he never initially anticipated.

Japanese audio brand AVIOT has launched a unique collaboration with the popular anime series 'REBORN!', introducing special edition true wireless earbuds based on their successful TE-Q3 model. These premium earbuds, priced at ¥22,880, go beyond standard audio devices by integrating over 150 newly recorded voice lines from beloved 'REBORN!' characters, alongside distinct aesthetic features like the Vongole Family emblem and 'Deathperation flame' motifs. The launch targets both audiophiles and anime enthusiasts, offering a blend of high-quality sound, active noise cancellation, and a deeply immersive fan experience, signaling a growing trend of technology companies leveraging pop culture for market differentiation and engagement.

Mushoku Tensei: Jobless Reincarnation Season 3 has premiered its third opening song, "Hikari no Uta" ("Song of Light"), performed by Yuiko Ohara. This new theme accompanies the launch of the highly anticipated "Chaos Breaker" arc, starting with Episode 8. The song is now accessible on all major music streaming platforms, further enhancing the viewing experience for fans following the series on Crunchyroll.

Capcom kicks off the Year 4 Character Pass for Street Fighter 6 with Yasmine, a Filipino combatant whose install-style Bayani Mode creates an approachable yet potent pressure game.

The ongoing anime series "HELL MODE: The Hardcore Gamer Dominates in Another World with Garbage Balancing" has unveiled a new key visual, signaling the commencement of its anticipated Rosenheim Arc within its second season. This development, which kicked off with Episode 7 (marking the 19th episode overall), offers fans a fresh glimpse into the expanding narrative and challenges awaiting protagonist Allen as he navigates a notoriously difficult fantasy world.

Ahead of its September 30 premiere, The Prince of Tennis II: U-17 World Cup Final Member Selection Match anime has released a new key visual, a compelling trailer, and introduced four additional voice cast members who will portray players from Spain's formidable U-17 team. The upcoming series focuses on Japan's intense internal selection matches as players vie for a spot in the final lineup against Spain.

Original 'Attack on Titan' animation studio, WIT STUDIO, has sparked widespread speculation by teasing a new announcement related to the global phenomenon for August 20, 2026. The cryptic visual depicts six pivotal characters, including those deceased in the main storyline, gathered for a 'special dinner,' hinting at a potential spin-off, prequel, or alternate universe project distinct from the recently concluded main anime series.

Weeks after concluding his globally acclaimed superhero epic, My Hero Academia, mangaka Kohei Horikoshi has surprised fans by delving into a darker genre with the release of his new horror one-shot, 'Quit Laughing Shijima.' The 61-page story, published in Weekly Shonen Jump, marks a significant creative pivot for the artist, offering a chilling 'boy-meets-girl horror' narrative now accessible to a worldwide audience.

Tite Kubo's legendary Bleach franchise is celebrating its 25th anniversary with a massive lineup of projects, including an expanded two-volume re-release of the JET artbook, Ryogo Narita's new spin-off novel, the BLEACH EX. II exhibition in 2027, and key updates on the final anime cour.

Developer Undercoders takes a audacious leap with Denshattack, a genre-blending arcade title that combines high-speed train transit, multi-path platforming, and trick systems set in a post-climate crisis Japan.

During the annual '∞ Day' broadcast, the production team behind SK8 the Infinity revealed a fresh teaser illustration and confirmed that Season 2 will take place during winter, offering fans an encouraging status update on the long-awaited sequel.

Record label FlyingDog Inc. has announced the official tracklist, physical specifications, and digital release details for the upcoming 'The Ghost in the Shell' Original Soundtrack, featuring music composed by Taisei Iwasaki, Ryo Konishi, and Yuki Kanesaka with original album jacket artwork by Science Saru's tarou2.

Digital manga reader platform emaqi has announced a significant update to its August 2026 catalog, featuring 18 popular VIZ Media series added to emaqi Premium alongside seven brand-new exclusive English digital releases.

Following a successful debut in 2025, Akiba Station is returning to Los Angeles Comic Con from October 30 to November 1, 2026. The expanded Japanese pop culture zone will feature larger themed environments, cherry blossom installations, returning and new industry partners, and special guest appearances.

Frieren: Beyond Journey's End is set to launch a second Real Escape Game titled 'Escape from the Village Where Demons Lurk,' featuring Frieren and the original Hero Party. Following the success of its predecessor, this new immersive experience will debut in Tokyo in September before expanding to Osaka, Nagoya, and Fukuoka. A compelling new visual has been revealed, underscoring the franchise's continued expansion into interactive entertainment alongside its popular anime and manga.