Following a recent merchandise announcement during Anime Expo 2024, however, Filian has fallen into controversy as the VTubing community has realised that she may not actually have the proper commercial rights to be receiving collectible figures of her likeness.

Everything We Know About the Filian Controversy

Following a post made by Good Smile Company – a popular figure manufacturer’s official X account as a part of their “Anime Expo 2024 GSC Figure Update” posts, it was revealed that the popular VTuber would be receiving an official Nendoroid figure. The post began going viral, but probably not for the reason Fillian would have liked. As seen from the “community note” added to the original post, Filian’s design is based on an existing character named Ryudan by Jingo. Jingo then posted that they were not informed that this figure would be produced, nor were they asked by either party for permission to license the figure.

Jingo’s tweet is currently sitting at over 3.5 million views, and immediately sparked a discussion online on whether or not it’s legal for the figure to be produced by GSC. The situation has sent the VTubing community into a frenzy, with proof that this isn’t the first time Filian has had merchandise produced of the design – also allegedly without permission – and that she has allegedly failed to pay former clip editors, as well as seemingly being a vehement AI art promoter despite working and creating content in a very artist-driven community and industry.

It also seems another artist, komado on X, has called out Filian for selling merchandise without being given permission:

This story is currently in development, and at time of publication there has been no official comment made by Filian or Good Smile Company regarding the claims made against her, meanwhile, more and more creators are coming out to talk about their negative experiences with the content creator.

Witch Hat Atelier has been running in Kodansha’s seinen manga magazine, Morning Two, since July 2016, and currently has 5.5 million copies in circulation. The award-winning series has enchanted manga readers around the globe, and fans have been itching to here ore about its anime adaptation ever since it was announced all the way back in 2022.

Everything We Know About Witch Hat Atelier’s Upcoming Anime Adaptation

During its featured panel at Anime Expo 2024, it was revealed that Witch Hat Atelier would be produced by Bug Films, the same studio behind the perfectly handled adaptation of Zom 100: Bucket List of the Dead that debuted on Netflix in the Summer 2023 anime season. Additionally, it was announced that the anime would begin streaming on Crunchyroll in 2025.

It was also announced that Ayumu Watanabe (Children of the Sea, Space Brothers) will be directing the anime, with Yuka Kitamura composing the original soundtrack, and Kairi Unabara handling character designs. Kodansha handles the publication of Witch Hat Atelier in English, and gives the following synopsis:

“A beautifully-illustrated story about a girl who longs for magic in her life and learns that, on the inside, she already is what she wishes she could be. Reminiscent of Studio Ghibli, this lushly drawn story was voted one of the Top 10 manga of the year in 2018 by the Japanese manga industry. In a world where everyone takes wonders like magic spells and dragons for granted, Coco is a girl with a simple dream: she wants to be a witch. But everybody knows magicians are born, not made, and Coco was not born with a gift for magic. Resigned to her un-magical life, Coco is about to give up on her dream to become a witch … until the day she meets Qifrey, a mysterious, traveling magician. After secretly seeing Qifrey perform magic in a way she’s never seen before, Coco soon learns what everybody “knows” might not be the truth, and discovers that her magical dream may not be as far away as it may seem …”

One of the most exciting – and, admittedly, anxiety inducing due to the nature of fandom apprehension – upcoming titles that was featured at the convention is The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim. The upcoming anime film looks absolutely gorgeous, and the latest updates dropped by Warner Bros. and Sola Entertainment are making this project feel like a perfect addition to the ever growing Lord of the Rings franchise.

Everything We Know About The War of the Rohirrim

The upcoming anime film shared a brand new image/still from production, depicting the film’s lead, Héra, in an action shot of her valiantly riding a horse with clear concern on her face. Kenji Kamiyama, the films director, stated that, “In Japanese [anime], it’s not uncommon for a female protagonist to be the main character, but it’s more rare in live-action films like The Lord of the Rings. Our film has a strong female lead in Héra, and our story is narrated by the noble Tolkien figure Éowyn, so women are very well represented. I think their are a lot of fans of Tolkien’s original work, so I hope those people will enjoy it. Making this movie has been a fun challenge.”

In addition to having Kenji Kamiyama (Eden of the East, Blade Runner Black Lotus, Ghost In the Shell: Stand Alone Complex – Solid State Society –) directing, the rest of the upcoming film’s production team is also promising, including the Academy Award-winning screenwriter Philippa Boyens (The Lord of the Rings films, The Hobbit films) credited as a producer, plus Phoebe Grittins and Arty Papageorgiou writing the film’s screenplay.

The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim is set 183 years before the events of the original film trilogy, follows the tale of the House of Helm Hammerhand, the King of Rohan. After a sudden attack from Wulf, a cunning and dangerous Dunlending lord on a quest for revenge after losing his father, Helm and his people are forced to try and make a daring “last stand” in the ancient stronghold Hornburg, a fortress that is later referred to as Helm’s Deep. The film’s lead protagonist, Héra, Helm’s daughter, is pushed to lead the army to resist against Wulf and his forces bent on her people’s destruction.

The film is currently slated for a wide theatrical release on December 13, 2024 in the United States, and features the voice talents of Brian Cox, Miranda Otto, Gaia Wise as Héra, and Luke Pasqualino as Wulf.

The film has been a resounding success, making a whopping 172 million yen (1.06 million USD) with over 137,000 admissions.

What Hideo Kojima Had To Say About ‘the New Film ‘Look Back’

On his official X account, Hideo Kojima noted that he found Look Back to be, “one of the most remarkable anime of the last decade.” He offered additional commentary, saying: “I was shaken to my core! The tenderness, the kindness, the strength! Such rich expressions and sensitivity, surpassing even a live-action film! I was moved by the present and future of entertainment! Anime is truly incredible. I’ve already ordered Tatsuki Fujimoto’s original manga and can’t wait to “look back” on it.”

Fans have taken notice of Kojima’s adoration for the film, too, with one popular tweet saying the following:

Madoka Magica, an anime series known for popularizing a darker take on the magical girl genre, is no stranger to game adaptations. The series has seen a few Japan-exclusive console releases, as well as a mobile game that expanded the greater lore and explored alternate timelines titles called Magia Record that was available globally for fans of the series. The latest installment in Madoka games, however, has made one major change that fans can’t stop talking about.

Madoka Magica Magia Exedra Takes a Few Pages From the miHoYo Playbook

Madoka Magica Magia Exedra‘s official Steam page is loaded with incredible details about the upcoming title, and something fans noted right away from the promotional screenshots is how is similar the combat encounters look when compared to Honkai Star Rail.

While they certainly aren’t 1:1, it’s obvious that the game’s developers, Pokelabo and f4samurai were by the Chinese studio’s success. From the official Steam page, Madoka Magica Magia Exedra is described as follows:

“Characters from the hit anime series “Puella Magi Madoka Magica” come together!
Featuring an all-new story setting and characters from the original ideas of Gekidan Inu Curry (Doroinu), experience the action alongside Magical Girl memories in this battle RPG!

Now go. Unveil the memories of these Magical Girls.

◆ Enter a Realm of Magical Memories! ◆
A place where the memories of Magical Girls illuminate the dark…
The Lighthouse.
Now a girl who’s lost everything has wandered into its sanctum.

Who am I…?
How did I get here…?

She will relive key moments of countless Magical Girls by opening windows into their memories…
Trusting she’ll one day find her own lost light of remembrance.”

Why Is It a Good Thing That Magia Exedra Shares Similarities To Honkai Star Rail?

Developers taking inspiration from other properties is a slippery slope, especially when certain mechanics are so glaringly inspired from whatever the new game is being inspired by. However, gaming fans have seen practices like this time and time again, whether it be with the ever evolving landscape of JRPGs, “Metroidvania” titles, and the entirety of the “Souls-like” genre. While gacha games can be predatory just in the way they’re constructed, it’s also exciting to imagine what a true RPG experience with the cast of Madoka Magica could look like.

Plus, Aniplex has already announced that the game will release far more global support compared to Magia Record, which is good enough news for fans of the franchise that nothing else really matters at this point in time. While there’s no official release date for Magia Exedra at this time, Magia Record is stille available on app stores, and Madoka Magica is available to stream on Crunchyroll.

While many fans of the series consider the manga a masterclass in storytelling and an absolute must-read, other adaptations of Sui Ishida’s work are far less favorable, and somehow, fans keep getting disappointed whenever Tokyo Ghoul tries to branch out its franchising opportunities.

Tokyo Ghoul Fans Feel Like the Series’ Latest Announcement Was Overhyped

To celebrate the series’ 10th anniversary, the official X account for Tokyo Ghoul began posting a cryptic countdown for a “big announcement”. Everyone’s mind went to the same place, obviously: Tokyo Ghoul would finally get the Brotherhood treatment. Unfortunately for many, instead of a new anime, Tokyo Ghoul will be celebrating the big “10” with an art exhibit.

While fans, especially those in the West, are understandably heartbroken to get their hopes dashed for a proper anime adaptation of such a beloved series; perhaps too many of us were putting faith in something that wasn’t even teased to be true. Plus, Sui Ishida’s latest series, Choujin X would be a far more interesting pick for a new anime.

While its narrative is relatively short compared to epic-length shonen franchises like Naruto and One Piece, Demon Slayer excels through its beautifully illustrated fight scenes and easily recognizable character designs.

In True Ufotable Fashion, the Infinity Castle Arc Will Be a Film Trilogy

While there has been some mixed reception following the Hashira Training Arc anime adaptation, fans are more than excited to see what exactly an Infinity Castle anime adaptation means for the franchise. As previously mentioned, Demon Slayer‘s story is short, and it wears its themes and ideas on its sleeves – and while the other seasons and anime adaptations have been well produced, many believe that Ufotable is dragging the story out much longer than it needs to be.

While there is no release dates in place for the trilogy just yet, it has already been confirmed that Crunchyroll and Sony will have distribution rights; meaning that fans should expect a wide theater release in the US, as this has been the case for all previous Demon Slayer feature films.

The series is no stranger to collaborations, with perhaps the most notable before the fast food collab being a crossover with the online game Fortnite, adding characters and abilities from the series to the game for players to select.

What Is the New “Special Grade” McDonald’s Sauce – and When Can We Try It?

The sauce, officially dubbed “Special Grade Garlic” by the fast food chain is actually a dipping option that’s been available at McDonald’s Japanese locations in the past that’s finally being brought overseas for American customers. It’s described as having a sweet and tangy soy-garlic flavor, and according to the chain, “… [the] first EVER garlic sauce to hit the menus at McDonald’s USA.”

The campaign will begin on July 9, 2024, and every customer who gets the sauce will also receive a 30-day free trial to the streaming service that hosts Jujutsu Kaisen, Crunchyroll, so fans of the sauce can binge the anime with their nuggets.

As with other services, HIDIVE is ready to start streaming their Summer 2024 lineup, and while we can’t wait to watch some of the obvious heavy-hitters, like Oshi no Ko Season 2, they have plenty of other new shows worth checking out.

Every New Anime Available on HIDIVE During the Summer 2024 Anime Season

Here’s every new anime that HIDIVE will air to kick off the summer anime season:

While their list of new anime may seem a little short, it’s filled with everything anime fans will need to enjoy this year’s seasonal summer lineup. With the comeback of one of the most sensational anime in the last year, Oshi no Ko, the streaming service has also licensed the hilarious ecchi comedy Plus-sized Elf; a series filled with cute fantasy-inspired girls trying and failing to work out, as well as 2.5 Dimensional Seduction, a romance series focusing on cosplay.

HIDIVE will also be airing a number of new English dubs for series they’ve already aired, such as Helck.

Magic Knight Rayearth Is Making a Big Comeback For Its 30th Anniversary

As announced by TMS Entertainment on their official social media accounts, the classic series will be getting a brand-new anime adaptation to celebrate its 30th anniversary, a massive milestone for any series. While details are sparse at this time, TMS has released a gorgeous key visual depicting the three leads wielding their iconic blades.

Surprisingly to new fans, Rayearth is one of the earliest examples of a series that falls under the “isekai” genre, following three girls – Hikaru Shidou, Umi Ryuuzaki, and Fuu Hououji – after being called by the mysterious Princess Emeraude to Cephiro to save her world.

The Summer 2024 anime season is no different, with the platform boasting a massive catalogue of shows for anime fans to keep up with.

Every Anime Releasing On Crunchyroll This Summer

Here’s every anime that Crunchyroll will be streaming during the Summer 2024 anime season:

Boasting well over 30 new and returning series this summer, Crunchyroll has truly outdone themselves by having an immense amount of variety in this year’s catalogue.

Some of the new series we’re most excited to watch this season include Wistoria: Wand & Sword, Delico’s Nursery, and Alya Sometimes Hides Her Feelings In Russian, a romance slice-of-life series produced by the same studio behind the electrifying Oshi no Ko.

Right off the heels of the series’ grand finale, Crunchyroll announced that Kaiju No. 8 will be getting a sequel. While there’s no release date just yet, Production I.G. and Crunchyroll did offer some other exciting news regarding the 2nd season.

Kiaiju No. 8 Season 2 Brings a Legendary Seiyuu Onto Its Cast List

In addition to the official season 2 announcement, Crunchyroll has confirmed that Koki Uchiyama will be joining the Kaiju No. 8 cast going forward as the voice of Gen Harumi. Uchiyama has an incredible list of characters he’s voiced in the past, including Roxas and Ventus from Kingdom Hearts, V in Devil May Cry 5, and Neku in The World Ends With You. The VA’s inherent talents and recognizable voice will be an exciting addition to the cast, especially considering he was recently added to the cast of the new hit delinquent anime Wind Breaker.

Her latest song, aptly titled “Otaku Hot Girl”, became instantly iconic for not only being unabashedly open about her love for the medium, but by sampling audio from one of her favorites, Jujutsu Kaisen.

Otaku Hot Girl Is a Love Song To All Things Anime

The new song, which samples voice lines from Yuji Itadori’s English dub voice actor, as well as the anime adaptation’s OST. The song features a number of iconic lines about the series, including: “Fightin’ demons in my head like I’m Itadori,” and “Can’t touch me like Gojo.”

The song also includes a few hilarious lines that explicitly poke fun at the anime community on social media, like “I’m not finna argue with a Sasuke avi; Incel mad, I’m a weeb and a hottie.” Paired alongside Megan’s recent Hatsune Miku cosplay to help promote Amazon‘s Prime Day event, the musician is truly living every weeb’s dream life.

With the series being set in a fantastically reimagined regency England, colorful fashions, and heart-pounding romance sequences, there are plenty of anime, manga, and light novels that matches Bridgerton‘s energy and then some.

Why Raeliana Ended Up at the Duke’s Mansion

Technically situating itself as an isekai, Why Raeliana Ended Up at the Duke’s Mansion begins with the death of a young woman named Rinko, who is reborn as Raeliana – a beloved character from a novel. But Rinko is more than familiar with the source material she’s been reincarnated into: she’s destined to be murdered by her fiance. Using her knowledge of the original story, Raeliana comes up with a scheme to ensure her survival by seducing a duke with a devilish personality.

Clearly, for fans of Simon and Daphne’s relationship in Bridgerton‘s first season, Why Raeliana Ended Up at the Duke’s Mansion is a no-brainer for binge-watching. While many would think it a fairy tale to be reborn into their favorite novel, audiences get to see a different side of the coin wherein Raeliana is constantly fighting for her survival, all the while missing out on the duke falling deeply in love with her.

The Rose of Versailles

For those who like Bridgerton‘s fantastical take on the regency era and Shondaland’s unique approach to adapting fashion trends from the time, they may find themselves at home with The Rose of Versailles. Originally created by Riyoko Ikeda in 1972, The Rose of Versailles is a fictionalized retelling of Marie Antionette’s life during the French Revolution, but later shifts its focus to follow Oscar Francois de Jarjayes, the daughter of a French military commander who grows up to succeed his role.

While heavily fictionalized, The Rose of Versailles is intensely beautiful, and follows two very different experiences in womanhood and fighting for personal freedoms all while making commentary on social and economic disparity.

Snow White With the Red Hair

Leaning far more into fantasy when compared to Bridgerton, Snow White With the Red Hair follows Shirayuki, an herbalist who resides in Tanbarun. Compared to the other citizens in the kingdom – her striking red hair. As she gets older, the first prince of the kingdom, Prince Raj, learns of her beautiful and unique trait; demanding that she become his concubine. Standing strong, Shirayuki reuses him, cutting her hair short and abandoning her home to travel to the neighboring kingdom of Clarines.

Later, she meets another prince named Zen Wistaria and his two aides, Mitsuhide and Kiki. Referencing it’s title – the infamous apple from the original fairy tale makes an appearance, and Prince Zen becomes poisoned. Shirayuki manages to cure him with her past herbalist experience, and begins to train in the palace to hone her skills for the royal family. Back in Tanbarun, Prince Raj realizes that he has real romantic feelings for Shirayuki, and begins to try and change his ways to win her favor; all the while, Zen and Shirayuki begin to fall hopelessly in love with one another.

7th Time Loop: The Villainess Enjoys a Carefree Life Married To Her Worst Enemy

One of the more charming “villainess reincarnation” series to be released after My Next Life as a Villainess: All Routes Lead To Doom!‘s unexpected success, 7th Time Loop follows a headstrong young woman named Rishe, whose life always starts out the same way – her getting rejected by her fiance, becoming exiled or running away to start fresh in a new occupation, only to be killed by a mysterious prince, or in the crossfire of a war that said prince starts.

In her latest and seventh life, Rishe abandons her fiance only to come face-to-face with with the man himself – Prince Arnold of the Galkhein kingdom. Arnold is taken by Rishe’s brash and determined personality, as well as her quick-with and dextrous timing with a blade. Because of this, he insists that Rishe marry him, instead, and takes her to Galkhein to make her his bride. Serving as an almost one-sided enemies to lovers story, 7th Time Loop is an intriguing story that makes its male lead perfectly mysterious in an “I can fix him” sort of way that’s hard to pull yourself away from.

Arte

Taking place in 16th century Florence, Arte is an underrated period piece that follows Arte, the only daughter to the noble Spalletti house. From childhood, Arte has had an immense talent and love for painting, but when her father unexpectedly passes away, her mother tries to push her to give up her pursuit of the arts and marry well to ensure her future – something that fans of Bridgerton have seen explored time and time again in its female characters’ storylines.

Arte doesn’t want to give up her dreams, however, opting to try and find a solution to her marriage dilemma. She begins working under a master painter named Leo to hone her craft, and as time goes on, even though she tries her best to fight it, Arte begins to fall head-over-heels in love with her mentor.

What is Jujutsu Kaisen’s Manga Release Schedule?

Jujutsu Kaisen releases weekly on Sundays and is available on Manga Plus and the VIZ Media Jujutsu Kaisen portal, with occasional hiatuses. Aside from the usual holiday breaks for Weekly Shonen Jump series like New Years, Golden Week, Obon, and Christmas, I will keep you posted on any developments.

Full Jujutsu Kaisen Manga Chapter Release Date Schedule (2024)

Please, note that the Jutusu Kaisen chapter release date schedule might change due to unforeseen circumstances regarding the author’s condition and problems with the magazine. If that happens, the data here will be updated to bring you the most accurate release schedule. As of early June 2024, Gege Akutami, the mangaka behind Jujutsu Kaisen, has announced that he will be taking a three week break as he deals with a series of health issues.

Given that Gege doesn’t take any breaks after he returns at the end of this month, Jujutsu Kaisen‘s schedule in 2024 should go as follows:

Fans will want to buckle up – it seems as though, with current events in the series, that Jujutsu Kaisen is ramping up for its grand finale.

Full Jujutsu Kaisen Manga Chapter Release Date Schedule (2023)

Below you can find our previously-covered 2023 schedule! As you might have guessed, several unexpected hiatuses happened, but some explosive moments followed too!

It’s bittersweet to imagine the Dark Trio soon losing its second pillar, but the series has had a spectacular run! However, Chainsaw Man has lately been bringing up the rear with some crazy chapters of its own.

What is Spy x Family’s Manga Release Schedule?

Spy x Family does not run in Weekly Shonen Jump despite its mass appeal, but rather through the online service Shonen Jump+, and has been its most successful manga since its release date in 2019. Spy x Family releases on a bi-weekly schedule, releasing one manga chapter every other Sunday, with Chapter 100 being 2024’s latest installment released on June 23, 2024.

Full Spy x Family Manga Chapter Release Date Schedule (2024)

Below you can see the anticipated Spy x Family release date schedule for 2024. While the mangaka has taken a couple of unexpected breaks throughout the year, if everything stays on track, this should be a definitive guide to keeping up with the Forgers for the rest of 2024.

As you can see, this biweekly format is anticipated to carry through much of the year, and the only currently foreseen conflict is at the end of April, Golden Week, a set of consecutive holidays in Japan. This is a fairly similar pattern to that of One Piece’s release schedule from 2024.

With two seasonal anime seasons, a smash-hit feature-length film and the manga still being far enough ahead of season 3, there’s plenty to enjoy this calendar year with Loid and the rest of the Forgers.

Full Spy x Family Manga Chapter Release Date Schedule (2023)

We have provided an anticipated release schedule, with small adjustments predicting a similar pattern to 2022’s releases, accounting for any holidays that overlap throughout the year.

You can read these chapters through the Viz Shonen Jump portal or through the Shonen Jump manga reader app.

Spy x Family released on Shonen Jump+ on March 25, 2019. It also has received an anime tv series, as well as an upcoming anime film.

Perhaps surprisingly, there are a number of anime and manga that share similar themes, world-building sensibilities, and character writing that fans of the sensational television series would have a hard time ignoring if they new what they were missing out on.

Kingdom

While not nearly as popular in the West as it should be due to a lack of localization and publication in English, Kingdom is a fictionalized take on real historical events in China. Taking place in the Warring States Period, the story follows to orphans, Shin and Hyou, who reside in Qin. Hyou is eventually taken to the palace and barely escapes alive, while meets a young man that resembles Hyou, named Ei Sei.

While it may seem a bit slow on the surface, Kingdom is an epic story that has several characters based on real historical figures, and gives a unique take on one of the biggest foundational periods in Chinese history. What it lacks in dragons, magic, and other high fantasy staples it more than makes up for in political drama and exciting battles.

Code Geass

Code Geass is far from a traditional high fantasy anime – taking place in an alternate-reality dystopian future, but it does contain all the political intrigue, backstabbing, and drama that fans of House of Dragon can’t get enough of.

As previously mentioned, Code Geass takes place in Japan years after being conquered by the Holy Empire of Britannia, now called Area 11. The Empire has stripped the citizens of their rights and refer to them as “Elevens”, keeping them in check with a militaristic government and deadly, high tech weaponry. The series’ protagonist, Lelouch, is an ambitious young man that gains the ability to use a “Geass” – a mysterious power that allows him to completely take control of other people, hoping to build a new world following his political ideals.

Tales of Earthsea

While not as political as other fantasy series fans of House of Dragon might be expecting, Tales of Earthsea still has many strong attributes to make it worth adding to their watchlists. Tales of Earthsea takes place in the eponymous fantasy nation, threatened by a mysterious force that could plunge humanity into chaos. The film primarily follows a wizard named Sparrowhawk seeking to find a solution to this problem, and along the way, meet a young priestess and a runaway prince.

An adventure film at its core, Tales of Earthsea is a unique fantasy film from Studio Ghibli with a dedicated cult following. Its lush world and fantastical setting make it feel like a storybook to life, which, while not nearly as gritty as the drama in House of Dragon, can still be a nice break for fans wishing that they could see more of the world in the series.

Yona of the Dawn

While many anime fans think that the shojo demographic exclusively caters to those looking for heart-stopping romance series – this couldn’t be farther from the truth. While Yona of the Dawn has some romantic elements, at its core, the series is a politically-driven high fantasy that’s perfect for House of the Dragon fans to add to their watchlists.

Yona of the Dawn follows the titular Yona, the sole princess of Kouka, who lives a sheltered life as royalty; kept safe from the grim reality hiding just beyond the Crimson Dragon Castle she resides in. Despite her cozy lifestyle – Kouka is on the verge of ruin, and Yona is none the wiser. On the eve of her 16th birthday, Yona’s crush of over 10 years, Su-on, visits with her father to declare his intentions. After being turned away, Yona attempts to talk to her father, the king, to change his mind, only to find Su-on assassinating him. Yona and her bodyguard are forced out of the castle as fugitives, and she embarks on a journey to find a way to earn the throne.

Maquia: When the Promised Flower Blooms

While far from being the same type of story as House of the Dragon on the surface, Maquia: When the Promised Flower Blooms is an exceptional fantasy film that blends political intrigue and family drama just as effortlessly as the aforementioned television series. Maquia‘s world-building is incredibly lush for being a stand-alone film, and all its main characters are easy to get attached to and sympathize with by the time the film unveils its heart-wrenching ending.

Maquia: When the Promised Flower Blooms follows the people of Iolph, a notable race of people known for their eternally youthful appearances and their pacifism – living peaceful lives weaving tapestries. Other humans believe that the people’s blood is a font of youth, leading to their society being invaded and thrust into chaos. One of the survivors, Maquia, begins to wander aimlessly until she comes across an orphaned boy. The child gives her life a new purpose, and the rest of the film watches Maquia raising the boy from a rambunctious child into a soldier.

In addition to feature films like My Hero Academia: You’re Next, Kimi no Iro, and the return of the Monogatari series with the animated adaptation of Off & Monster Season, here’s every Summer 2024 series we can’t wait to watch.

Kimi ni Todoke 3rd Season

Finally returning a whole decade after season 2 concluded, Kimi ni Todoke‘s anime adaptation is returning in full swing during the Summer 2024 anime season. With the original cast reprising their roles and Production I.G. picking up where they left off with the previous adaptation, there’s plenty for shojo fans to be excited about with this upcoming season.

While new fans unfamiliar with the anime’s original release may have a harder time diving into the series by having to watch the first two seasons, longtime fans have been looking forward to season 3 since it was originally announced by Netflix in September of 2023. Following Sawako, a teenage girl that’s mocked by her classmates for looking like the ghoulish horror icon “Sadako”, hopes to find new friends amid rumors about her, and ends up discovering much more in the process.

Tower of God Season 2

One of the most popular manhwa to hit the mainstream with an impeccable anime adaptation, Tower of God fans were left with no updates regarding a secon season for quite some time, but thankfully, this summer will finally unveil what Sola Entertainment has been working so hard on.

Instead of focusing on the previous season’s protagonist, Bam, Tower of God instead puts a spotlight on Ja Wangnan – a young man struggling to make it past the tower’s 20th floor. In his struggles, he encounters the mysterious Viole. The two begin traveling together, taking on the otherworldy struggles of the tower together as they ascend.

My Deer Friend Nokotan

While WIT studio is well renowned for their work on series like Attack on Titan, Spy x Family, and Vinland Saga, the studio has begun to expand into more eccentric territory by adapting the slapstick deer-girl series My Deer Friend Nokotan. The anime has already gone viral thanks to its over-the-top marketing and ear-bug of an opening theme, and its likely to stick around once the anime finally begins to air.

My Deer Friend Nokotan follows Torako Koshi, an upstanding high school student who rescues a strange deer-human hybrid on her way home from school. The girl later transfers to Torako’s school, and begins following her around. Even worse – Shikanoko, the mysterious deer girl – somehow knows that Torako used to be a delinquent, and Torako is the only person who seems to know there’s something off about her new classmate.

Suicide Squad Isekai

In addition to tackling eccentric comedies like My Deer Friend Nokotan, WIT Studio will also be working alongside DC comics to produce Suicide Squad Isekai. While the concept is admittedly out there, the idea of putting of some of DC’s most iconic characters in an oversaturated anime genre is interesting.

Suicide Squad Isekai follows the eponymous super-villain group as they’re sent on a mission by A.R.G.U.S. through a portal to a fantasy realm filled with orcs, dragons, and other fantastical threats roam free. As soon as the group make it to the fantasy realm, they get arrested, and after a discussion with Queen Aldora are sent on a quest to conquer her enemies. The premise sounds outlandish, even by Suicide Squad standards, but the animation quality from the trailers looks infectiously fun, making the series one to keep an eye on.

Oshi no Ko Season 2

One of the most sensational anime in the last decade, Oshi no Ko, is returning with its second season this summer. From the marketing materials, it seems as though the anime will be covering the Movie arc, one of the most popular in the manga, and will begin exploring many of the deeper psychological components in the series’ main character, Aqua. Doga Kobo will be returning to produce the new season, and with a live action adaptation on the way as well, 2024 will likely be dominated by Oshi no Ko.

The murder mystery series has a penchant for making poignant commentary on Japan’s entertainment industry, especially the treatment of idols and idol culture, which has made the series a stand-out hit for anime fans familiar with the culture, and has introduced other fans to the dark underbelly of the entertainment industry. While Oshi no Ko does have a lingering supernatural element to its storytelling, the narrative feels raw and is loaded with surprisingly heavy themes for a series that, on the surface, appears of colorful.

For fans of the series that are already knee-deep in the DLC, or for those who haven’t quite had the time to dive in just yet, there’s no better time to build on hype surrounding the Shadow of Erdtree release by watching and reading anime and manga that situate themselves in the dark fantasy genre.

Hellsing

While Hellsing doesn’t take place in a medieval fantasy setting, it does have all the grime and gore that fans of Elden Ring‘s brutal battles can’t get enough of. Hellsing follows an elusive organization that investigates a variety of supernatural threats. After being called in to look into a vampire terrorizing the village of Cheddar and turning the townsfolk into ghouls. The organization dispatches their most valuable member to look into the threat: a vampire called Alucard.

Hellsing is such a unique spin on dark fantasy in the way that it combines post-modern politics and social commentary in with a grisly, bloody story. Plus, for anime fans that love delving deep into franchises they love, Hellsing is an early example of a series that received the “Brotherhood” treatment. The original Hellsing anime only follows the manga up to a certain point before diverting slightly, while Hellsing Ultimate follows the manga’s story much more closely.

Bastard!! -Heavy Metal, Dark Fantasy-

Action-packed with just the right amount of self-awareness to be fun and occasionally campy, 2022’s Bastard!!, based on the original manga by Kazushi Hagiwara and produced by Liden Films, embraces every eccentricity the series has to offer.

After an apocalyptic event caused by a demon named Anthrasax who was subsequently slain by the Dragon Knight, Earth is sent spiraling into a dark age. In the present day, a kingdom known as Metallicana is invaded by the “Dark Rebel Army”, who aim to bring the demon back to life. These events lead the the kingdom’s high priest requesting that his daughter reawaken Dark Schnieder, the leader of the Dark Rebels, who reincarnates in a young man named Lucien. While the story can be campy, with all the flashy designs and humor that comes from a series that originally released in the late 80s, it’s infectiously fun.

Dororo

Based on Osamu Tezuka’s manga of the same name, 2019’s adaptation of Dororo by Tezuka Productions and MAPPA is a haunting blend of historical fiction and dark fantasy. The story follows Hyakkimaru, who, when he was born, had his organs and limbs sacrificed to twelve demon gods by a feudal lord in exchange for his people’s prosperity. He’s later adopted by a doctor named Jukai, who gives him his name and raises him as his own.

As Hyakkimaru becomes a teen, he is attacked by demons, but develops the idea to see their silhouettes and fights back. He reigns victorious, and regains the ability to feel pain. His adoptive father sends him on a journey to regain his body, and on his way meets a young child named Dororo. The two begin traveling together, learning many of the harsh realities of the world around them, and more importantly: what it means to be a human being.

Claymore

Perhaps one of the most iconic high fantasy manga ever written, Claymore, created by Norihiro Yagi, takes place in a traditional medieval setting where humanity is being ravaged by beings called “Yoma”, shape-shifters that feed on humans. A group known only as “The Organization” maufactures Yoma-hybrids to fight back against this threat. Referred to as “Claymores” or “Silver-Eyed Witches” by the public, this elite force of female warriors are powered by demonic energy that gives them superhuman strength, similar to that of the Yoma.

Claymore‘s world is incredibly vast, and Norihiro’s artstyle is nothing short of breathtaking. The illustrations of the Yoma seems to loom off the page, and the fight sequences between the Claymores and their otherworldy prey are heartstoppingly intense. For fans of Elden Ring’s unique world and visually impressive monsters, Claymore is an instant favorite that diehard fans of the games shouldn’t go overlooking.

Berserk

While it may seem like the obvious choice, for the uninitiated, Berserk is hands-down the best manga that fans of Elden Ring should be reading. In addition to the games constant nods and references to Miura’s legendary dark fantasy manga, Berserk is nothing short of a horrifying, gorgeous adventure story.

The manga follows Guts, a swordsman who, in the beginning, is a lone wolf; and Griffith, the leader of a band of mercenaries called the Band of the Hawk. The two eventually bond – but the story doesn’t end happily with the pair becoming some sort of adventuring party. Quite the contrary, with Griffith later betraying Guts and his crew, sacrificing them to a powerful demonic being. After this cataclysmic event, Guts journeys onward to seek revenge on Griffith. While there’s plenty of details being left out of such a simplified synopsis, Berserk is a legendary fantasy franchise, and while the series struggles to be adapted into an animated medium, it still stands as one of the most influential pieces of dark fantasy fiction to ever be released.

Interestingly, Studio Bones latest series, slated to release during the Summer 2024 anime season, feels like a stark contrast from some of the studio’s recent work. Adapted from the original series created by the late Cocoa Fujiwara, The Magical Girl and the Evil Lieutenant Used To Be Archenemies is an interesting choice, given the original series was never properly finished when the mangaka passed in 2015.

What is The Magical Girl and the Evil Lieutenant Used To Be Archenemies about?

The Magical Girl and the Evil Lieutenant Used To Be Archenemies follows exactly what the title suggests – a magical girl named Byakuya Mimori and the leader of an evil organization called Mira are sworn archenemies, but when they finally face off against one another, something unexpected happens that leads Mira into falling in love with Mimori. Enemies to lovers is an extremely popular archetype in popular literature, and seeing it play out in a story with a magical girl at the center is even more exciting.

Because of the author passing with only 21 chapters of the manga released – the story is unfinished. Plus, with the project releasing almost a decade since the mangaka’s passing, the timing feels bittersweet. While its unclear if content will be added to give the series a definitive anime-only ending, fans of the series and of Fujiwara’s work have high hopes for the series due to the staff working on the project. Not only will the two voice actors from the manga’s drama CD adaptation (Ono Yuuki as Mira and Nakahara Mai as Mimori) be returning to reprise their roles as the main characters, Akiyo Ohashi (The Stranger by the Beach, Given -on the other hand) will be directing andYuniko Ayana (The Apothecary Diaries, Given) writing the series’ script, it seems as though the anime will be a labor of love.

One of the biggest series using cosplay as its core theme is My Dress Up Darling, originally created by Shinichi Fukuda and adapted into a televised anime by CloverWorks in 2022. The series followed a young man named Gojo Wakana, who grew up with his grandfather, a professional Japanese doll maker. Gojo took a shine to the meticulous craftsmanship needed to make these dolls, but feels ashamed that his hobby isn’t traditionally masculine. His perspective begins to shift when he becomes friends with the bubly Marin, a popular girl in school who loves anime and gaming. She discovers his secret, and eventually requests his help sewing her cosplay outfits, leading the two into an unlikely friendship.

How Does 2.5 Dimensional Seduction compare to My Dress Up Darling?

2.5 Dimensional Seduction follows a high school student named Masamune Okumura, a second-year student who runs the (and is the only member of) their school’s manga club. Claiming he has no interest in “real girls” and has an undying obsession toward a fictional character named Liliel. Out of nowhere, a passionate underclassman who loves cosplay, Lilysa Amano, joins the manga club alongside him and convinces Okumura to be her photographer. Through this, he learns that she, too, is a huge fan of Liliel, and romantic undertones begin to develop between the two.

From the synopsis alone, there’s quite a few key differences between the two series. While My Dress Up Darling definitely has elements of a slice-of-life romance and even that of an ecchi series, the series also contains a lot of information regarding the popularity of cosplay as a hobby, the importance many cosplayers place on accuracy when cosplaying certain characters, and the importance of bonding with other cosplayers in the community and working together to share in the love that one has for their favorite characters.

While 2.5 Dimensional Seduction has some of these themes as well, the series leans much more into its rom-com and ecchi influences, going out of its way to put its female characters in scandalous positions, and even veering into harem territory. Despite My Dress Up Darling having other female characters in its cast, they never serve as rivals to Marin, but in 2.5 Dimensional Seduction, the other girls in the manga club do seem to serve as some kind of competition to the female lead.

Does 2.5 Dimensional Seduction have what it takes to be as popular as My Dress Up Darling?

While 2.5 Dimensional Seduction and My Dress Up Darling are both classified as being targeted at a male demographic – shonen and seinen, respectively, 2.5 Dimensional Seduction will likely struggle to garner the same level of mainstream attention and adoration as My Dress Up Darling. While My Dress Up Darling does possess scandalous content, the series’ unique approach to showcasing the love and dedication fans feel toward their hobbies, as well as the hard work and craftsmanship that cosplayers put in to bring their favorite characters to life.

Comparatively, 2.5 Dimensional Seduction focuses much more on ecchi humor and the dynamic between its male lead and his harem of nerdy girls. While cosplay and hobby culture are still a core theme, its less about the love of the hobby and far more about using cosplay as a narrative device to put its female characters in cute outfits. There is nothing wrong with this, of course, but in the current animanga landscape, this could lead to 2.5 Dimensional Seduction not having the same mainstream appeal as My Dress Up Darling, making it difficult for the new series to leave its target audience.

Gachiakuta follows Rudo – a tribesfolk, or individual that has descended from criminals that have been exiled from society. Rudo detests the upper class for dumping trash where the other tribesfolk live, in a massive dump site known only as “The Pit”. As a child, Rudo was told by his adoptive father, a man named Regto, that his biological father was thrown into The Pit for committing a crime before Rudo was born. After rummaging through the site the next day, Rudo returns home to fine Regto killed – and he’s the primary suspect.

What makes Gachiakuta a unique shonen series?

While the shonen demographic is no stranger to grunge and grime, Gachiakuta stands out in how it handles topics like wealth and class disparity, the justice system, and other timely sociopolitical topics. Aside from its poignancy, Gaciakuta is filled with high-stakes action. After the lead protagonist is thrown into The Pit, he’s give the opportunity to work as a Cleaner, a unique role given to “Givers” – something that Rudo awakens in himself, and fight alongside an exclusive group of individuals that hunt and destroy trash beasts.

For anime fans that enjoyed the highly underrated Dorohedoro, or other eccentric series like Soul Eater will easily latch on to Gachiakuta‘s unique artstyle and modes of story telling. For those that can’t wait to see the series animated, the manga serializes in Kodansha’s Weekly Shonen Magazine, and is available in both English print and digital editions through retailers like Barnes & Noble, Walmart, and Books-A-Million

Oshi no Ko follows a doctor named Gorou Amamiya as he treats Ai Hoshino, a popular idol that he’s a massive fan of and happens to be pregnant with twins. While Ai is recovering, Gorou is murdered by a stalker of Ai’s, and is reincarnated as the idol’s son. Now named Aquamarine (or Aqua) he and his new twin sister discover that both of them are reincarnated fans of the idol. When the two are toddlers, Ai is mysteriously murdered at their front door, and the two young children vow to avenge her.

When will the ‘Oshi no Ko’ live action release?

The live action adaptation of Oshi no Ko has confirmed that the upcoming episode will have eight episodes, and is scheduled to be released exclusively on Amazon Prime Video on November 28, 2024 worldwide. The live action film doesn’t have a Western release date just yet, but it will have a theatrical run in Japan beginning on December 20, 2024.

In addition to the release date being revealed, additional staff details has also been announced. Aqua will be played by Kaito Sakurai, Ai Hoshino will be played by Asuka Saito of Nogisaka 46, Ruby Hoshino will be played by Nagisa Saito of =LOVE member, Kana Arima will be played by Nanoka Hara, the voice of Suzume in Suzume; Akane Kurokawa will be played by Mizuki Kayashima, and Mem-cho will be played by ano.

Having originally begun serialization in 2006 in Square Enix’s shonen manga magazine Monthly GFantasy, Black Butler has become a classic around the globe, having 35 million copies in circulation at time of writing, multiple anime adaptations covering arcs from the manga, live stage plays, and even a Nintendo DS game.

When will Black Butler begin serializing again?

At this time, there’s no word on when Yana Toboso will be returning from her break and get back to work on Black Butler. As announced by the official X account for Monthly GFantasy, the mangaka will be taking a trip to England in order to conduct further research and prepare for the manga’s final story arc as well as taking a much needed break from writing.

With 34 collected volumes and nearly two decades of build up under its belt, fans of the series are both anxious and devastated to hear that the series will be entering its final stretch, but, as the iconic demon butler Sebastian might say, it’s certainly been one hell of an adventure.

The latest episode of My Hero Academia will finally be adapting the fight against Dabi and Shoto Todoroki – a battle that beautifully defines everything that the series has been building up to with both character’s individual arcs.

When will My Hero Academia season 7, episode 8 air?

My Hero Academia season 7, episode 8 will be released on Crunchyroll on June 22, 2024 at 2:30 am PST, 4:30 am CST, 5:30 am EST, and 10:30 GST; shortly after the new episode airs in Japan.

The battle between Todoroki and his estranged older brother is one that fans have been waiting for since the original chapters of the manga released. Based on the episode trailer alone, it seems as though this will be a fight that studio Bones pours their heart and soul into – teasing some of the most fluid animation quality the anime has ever seen.

After running for the better part of the last decade after beginning serialization in 2014, My Hero Academia has spawned an incredibly successful anime adaptation, video games, spin-off manga, and so much more. While the manga may be publishing its final pages, the production team behind the anime adaptation aren’t finished giving fans more of their favorite heroes just yet.

When will My Hero Academia: You’re Next release?

Alongside a stunning new trailer featuring the film’s main theme, “Homunculus” by Vaundy, it’s official that My Hero Academia: You’re Next will release in Japan on August 2, 2024. While there’s no confirmation yet on when the film will make it overseas, this is still exciting news for fans looking forward to the latest lineup in My Hero Academia movies.

Taking place after season 6 and before the beginning of season 7, My Hero Academia: You’re Next introduces a mysterious new antagonist known as Dark Might who – both visually and metaphorically – seems to be the complete opposite of the world’s “Number 1 Hero”, All Might. Kohei Horikoshi is working as a supervisor on the new film, and has even provided brand-new character designs that will be prominently featured in the film. Until further updates are revealed regarding the film’s English release, My Hero fans can tide themselves over with My Hero Academia season 7, which is currently airing on Crunchyroll.

Delicious in Dungeon follows Laios, Marcille, Chilchuck, and Senshi – an adventuring party delving deep into the dungeons to rescue Falin, Laios’ sister, after being eaten by a terrifying red dragon. While the series initially seems to be a relatively light-hearted rescue-mission begins to unravel and explore deeper themes related to human connection, and the importance of sharing a meal with the ones you love.

Everything we know about ‘Delicious in Dungeon’ season 2

Announced by the show’s official X page, studio Trigger officially announced that season 2 is currently in production. This exciting announcement was paired with an adorable illustration of Laios’ party, and on Kadokawa’s official YouTube channel, a brand-new teaser for the series was released.

The new teaser gives hints at which story arcs the new season will cover, and considering season 1 ended with Laios’ party seemingly joining forces with other adventurers that viewers were introduced to to once again consume pieces of dragon to attempt to save Falin from her curse. For anxious fans that can’t wait to see what happens next, they can always read ahead thanks to Delicious in Dungeon’s manga being officially licensed by Yen Press; available for purchase through retailers like Walmart, Barnes & Noble, and Books-A-Million.

Despite initial quality concerns, fans have loved Konosuba season 3. As bittersweet as it is, though, all good things must come to an end, and Konosuba is no exception. Season 3 adapted volumes 6 and 7 of the original light novel written by Natsume Akatsuki and Kurone Mishima, and follows Kazuma’s troupe as they return to Axel, traumatized after their run-in with the Demon General.

When will the final episode of Konosuba season 3 air?

Konosuba season 3’s finale will officially air on June 19, 2024 at 11:30 pm JST in Japan, and 2:30 pm GMT 10:30 am EST, 9:30 am CST, and 7:30 am PST for international fans. The episode is titled “Blessings For This Unchanging Daily Life!” and will follow Aqua and Kazuma crashing Alderp and Darkness’ wedding – just as the two are preparing to exchange vows.

While it’s sad to see the series be sent off once again, based on the previous episode, “Blessings For This Selfish Bride!” It seems as though season 3’s finale will be a surprisingly rich episode; as, despite the series’ goofy humor, will highlight the friendship between Kazuma and the rest of the cast.

With one of his friends abducted and another’s true loyalties revealed, Rin and his remaining allies are in for the fight of their young lives. Here’s the release date and countdown for Blue Exorcist: Shimane Illuminati Saga Episode 5.

Blue Exorcist Season 3 Episode 5 Release Details and Countdown

Blue Exorcist: Shimane Illuminati Saga Episode 5 will be released on February 4, 2023, at 12:30 AM. After its premiere, the episode will be uploaded to Crunchyroll.

We don’t have an official release date for Blue Exorcist: Shimane Illuminati Saga‘s English dub, but we know precisely when each episode is premiering in most timezones worldwide. Here’s a timezone release guide for Blue Exorcist: Shimane Illuminati Saga.

Blue Exorcist Season 3 Episode 4 Recap

Arthur A Angel and Lewin Light interrogate an Illuminati spy, hoping to discover what the secret society has planned. Lewin proves he isn’t afraid to sink to whatever depths he has to in order to get the information he needs when he brings in the man’s wife and son and threatens them. Desperate to save his family, the spy reveals that the Illuminati is planning to abduct Izumo.

At the same time, Nemu Takara confronts Izumo and reveals that he has been instructed to ensure the Illuminati kidnaps Izumo. Fortunately, Renzo Izuma intervenes, summoning his powerful familiar demon Yamantaka and defeating Nemu with surprising ease… only to knock Izumo unconscious when she tries to leave and get help.

In a moment that’s sure to throw anime-only Blue Exorcist fans for a loop, Shima is revealed to be a member of the Illuminati. Seconds after this revelation, Seraphim demons loyal to the Illuminati’s leader, Lucifer, appear before every branch of the True Cross Order. Rin and his friends arrive on the scene in time to see the King of Light arrive and formally declare war on the organization.

Powerless in the face of such a powerful demon, Rin can only watch in horror as Shima leaves with an unconscious Izumo. To add insult to injury, the Seraphims explode, killing countless exorcists. Left with no other options, Mephisto Pheles sends Rin and his friends on a dangerous mission to save Izumo.

Solo Leveling Episode 4 introduces one of the most potent abilities in Sung’s arsenal, and it leaves a strong first impression that will have viewers begging to see more of it. Here’s the release date and countdown to Solo Leveling episode 5.

Solo Leveling Episode 5 Release Details & Countdown

The fifth episode of Solo Leveling will premiere on February 3rd, 2023, at 12:00 JST. After it airs in Japan, the episode will be uploaded onto Crunchyroll‘s official Solo Leveling portal.

The first episode of Solo Leveling‘s English Dub aired on January 20th, so we assume that Solo Leveling Episode 5’s English dub will air on February 17th, two weeks later. Here’s a timezone release guide for the Solo Leveling Episode 5 sub.

Solo Leveling Episode 5 Recap

Face-to-face with a Steel-Jawed Lycan, Sung fights tooth and nail to stay alive and slay the beast. Eventually, he succeeds and is rewarded with a “Level-Up” that improves his physical attributes. Unfortunately, the death of the Lycan attracts the attention of its pack, who swarm Sung in full force.

With his increased might, Sung slays the pack of Lycans and attempts to exit the dungeon. However, he realizes too late that he’s fallen into a trap and finds himself facing off against a giant, poisonous serpent. In classic anime-protagonist fashion, Sung finds the will to persevere and triumph by remembering his vow to become stronger and kills the snake, receiving a gland of its venom as a reward.

As all this is happening, Sung’s friend Lee Joohee is called on to help slay a stone elemental that broke free from a nearby dungeon. Still traumatized by the disastrous expedition that nearly cost her and Sung their lives, Joohee has trouble healing her fellow Hunters, who are quickly overwhelmed. Fortunately for them, Sung emerges from the dungeon and finishes off the elemental, revealing his newfound strength to Joohee and the assembled crowd.

Now that the first episode of Solo Leveling‘s English Dub is out, we have a pretty good idea of what the release schedule for the rest of the series will look like. Here’s the release schedule for the English Dub of Solo Leveling Season 1.

Solo Leveling Season 1 English Dub Episodes Release Date Schedule

The first episode of Solo Leveling‘s English Dub premiered on Crunchyroll on January 20th, 2024, at 9:00 A.M. This is exactly two weeks after the first episode premiered in Japan, so the rest of the English Dub’s episodes will likely follow a similar pattern. Based on this information, here’s a release date schedule for the rest of Solo Leveling‘s English Dub.

Solo Leveling Timezone Release Chart

Crunchyroll operates in many different countries, so the release date for Solo Leveling‘s English Dub will be different depending on what region you are watching it in. If you’re a Solo Leveling fan worried about missing the premiere because of the time difference, we’ve got you covered! Here’s a timezone release chart for the dub’s release.

Solo Leveling English Dub Voice Cast

Solo Leveling‘s English Dub voice cast was unveiled during Crunchyroll’s industry panel at Anime NYC. Many well-known anime voice actors and actresses have lent their voices to this animated adaption of the hit Manwha of the same name, and I can confirm that their talent is on full display in the first episode.

Here are all the actors and actresses in the English Dub.

• Aleks Le as protagonist Sung Jinwoo
• Justine Briner as sidekick Yoo Jinho
• Rebecca Wang as sister Sung Jinnah
• Michelle Rojas as S-rank hunter Cha Hae-in
• Ian Sinclair as flame-wielder Choi Jong-in
• Christopher R. Sabat as Beast Baek Yoonho
• Kent Williams as chairman Go Gunhee
• SungWon Cho as chief inspector Woo Jinchul
• Dani Chambers as protagonist’s friend Lee Joohee

Solo Leveling English Dub trailer

Here’s the trailer for Solo Leveling‘s English Dub! This trailer shows off just some of the fantastic performances Aleks Le, Justine Briner, and others deliver in just the first few episodes of the Dub, as well as a sick sneak preview of the gorgeously animated action that is drawing so many anime fans to this series.

With an unexpected confrontation set to go down in the next episode, the story of Blue Exorcist: Shimane Illuminati Saga is about to take off. Now that I’ve got your attention, here’s the release date and countdown for Blue Exorcist: Shimane Illuminati Saga episode 4.

Blue Exorcist Season 3 Episode 4 Release Details and Countdown

Blue Exorcist: Shimane Illuminati Saga Episode 4 will be released on January 28, 2023, at 12:30 AM. After its premiere, the episode will be uploaded to Crunchyroll.

So far, there’s no official word on when Blue Exorcist: Shimane Illuminati Saga’s English dub is coming, but we know precisely when each episode is premiering in most timezones worldwide. Here’s a timezone release guide for Blue Exorcist: Shimane Illuminati Saga.

Blue Exorcist Season 3 Episode 3 Recap

Hoping to attend the school festival, Rin and Shima Renzo begin looking for potential plus-ones. Unfortunately for both of them, every girl in the academy turns them down. Things start looking up for Rin when Shiemi Moriyama officially enrolls at the academy, but his hopes are dashed when she reveals she wants to ask out his brother Yukio.

As this transpires, the leadership of the True Cross Order launches an internal investigation, suspecting that one of their members is secretly a mole for the Illuminati. Shura Kiragakure begins tailing Nemu Takara, a quiet boy in Rin’s class who only communities through a puppet, suspecting him of being the spy.

Needing an extra hand to run his food stand, Rin asks Izumo Kamiki to help man it. Having been turned down by Yukio, Shiemi arrives at the festival to deliver flowers, and Rin finds the courage to ask her out. As the two dance, Nemu confronts Izumo and presents her with a fox doll belonging to one of her relatives.

With the System giving him all the tools he needs to challenge the rules that bind all Hunters, Sung’s journey is about to kick into high gear. Here’s the release date and countdown to Solo Leveling episode 4.

Solo Leveling Episode 4 Release Details & Countdown

The second episode of Solo Leveling will premiere on January 27th, 2023, at 12:00 JST. After it airs in Japan, the episode will be uploaded onto Crunchyroll‘s official Solo Leveling portal.

The English dub of Solo Leveling aired on Jan. 20, so we assume that the Solo Leveling Episode 4 English dub will air Feb. 10, three weeks later. Here’s a timezone release guide for the Solo Leveling Episode 4 sub.

Solo Leveling Episode 4 Recap

Just as he’s about to be cleaved in twain by one of the statues that annihilated his adventuring party, Sung suddenly wakes up in a hospital without any injuries. He’s soon greeted by Woo Jinchul, the director of the Hunter Guild’s intelligence division, who reveals that his friend Lee Joohee is alive but undergoing mandatory therapy before questioning how he miraculously survived the disastrous expedition.

Once Jinchul leaves, a series of video-game-like hud screens pop up around Sung, causing him to remember that one of these windows allowed him to survive his ordeal in the dungeon. The screens are extensions of a mysterious entity known as “the System,” which promises to reward Sung with real-life experience points he can use to “level up” in exchange for completing specific “quests.”

“At first, Sung dismisses the System as a trauma-induced hallucination. However, his skepticism is shattered when the System punishes him for not doing his “daily quests” by forcing him to survive an onslaught of monsters for four hours. The next day, he completes his first daily quests, significantly speeding up his recovery.

A few days later, the System guides him to a secret “solo dungeon” and tasks him with clearing it out. Forced into a pack of goblins, Sung finds the will he needs to face his fear by remembering he became a Hutner to support his mother, who suddenly fell into a coma. He manages to kill the goblins, only to be ambushed by a red wolf.

We’ve only touched the first layer of the thick web of intrigue hanging over Rin Okumura and his friends, and things will only escalate from here as more of the Order and the Illuminati’s secrets are unveiled. Here’s the release date and countdown for Blue Exorcist: Shimane Illuminati Saga episode 3.

Blue Exorcist Season 3 Episode 3 Release Details and Countdown

Blue Exorcist: Shimane Illuminati Saga episode 3 will be released on January 21, 2023, at 12:30 AM. After its premiere, the episode will be uploaded to Crunchyroll.

Related: Solo Leveling Episode 3 Countdown – Release Date and Time

So far, there’s no official word on when Blue Exorcist: Shimane Illuminati Saga’s English dub is coming, but we know precisely when each episode is premiering in most timezones worldwide. Here’s a timezone release guide for Blue Exorcist: Shimane Illuminati Saga.

Blue Exorcist Season 3 Episode 2 Recap

In a ceremony overseen by a vaguely sinister circle of high-ranking Exorcists, Yukio Okumura is questioned about his relationship with the traitorous Saburota Todo. Lewin Light seems to take particular interest in Rin’s brother, who’s grappling with the crippling fear that he may have inherited his father’s demonic powers after all.

Yukio is soon revealed to be privately tutoring Shiemi Moriyama, using the lesson to reflect on his relationship with his adoptive father, Shiro Fujimoto, and his distrust of Mephisto Pheles. The next day, Yukio partners Shiemi with Izumo Kamika, who still struggles to find the words (and humility) to thank Shiemi for saving her from the Impure King last season.

Related: Who are the Illuminati in Blue Exorcist?

While clearing out a bathroom full of tiny Coal Tar demons, Shiemi and Izumo stumble upon a much more powerful spirit that Izumo’s fox familiars stubbornly refuse to fight. Fortunately, the sight of Shiemi nearly being strangled to death gives Izumo the resolve to command her spirits, slay the demon, and finally admit that Shiemi is her friend.

As all this is happening, Arthur A. Angel, Lewin, and Shura Kiragakure discover an artificial Gehenna Gate opening in Russia, explaining the recent uptick in global demonic activity. As Lewin formally accuses the Illuminati of opening the Gate, Todo meets with the secret society’s bedridden leader, Lucifer, the King of Light.

With our hero barely clinging to life, Solo Leveling’s next episode has a lot of hype to live up to. Here’s the release date and countdown to Solo Leveling Episode 3.

Solo Leveling Episode 3 Release Details & Countdown

The second episode of Solo Leveling will premiere on January 20, 2023, at 12:00 JST. After it airs in Japan, the episode will become available on Crunchyroll.

Related: Who Does Sung Jin-woo End Up With in Solo Leveling?

We still don’t know when the English dub of Solo Leveling is coming out, but we do know when the second episode will arrive on Crunchyroll in every timezone the streaming service operates in. Here’s a timezone release guide for Solo Leveling.

Solo Leveling Episode 3 Recap

Picking up where the previous episode ended, Solo Leveling Episode 3 opens with Sung Jin-woo and his party scrambling to stay alive as one of the statues in the room starts blasting them with lasers. Realizing a trio of commandments etched in the center of the room are hidden instructions, Sung convinces the rest of the group to bow in respect, causing the statue to stop attacking.

Unfortunately, the rest of the statues begin squishing Hunters like bugs. Once again, showing his perceptive nature, Sung realizes that statues that aren’t holding weapons are safe to stand near. Sung manages to make it to safety, but not before his leg is severed, an injury that his friend Lee Joohee cannot heal.

Related: Solo Leveling Episodes 1 & 2 Review

The final test (which might be a reference to a classic Dungeons & Dragons puzzle) forces Sung, Joohee, and the surviving Hunters to wait in a safe in the center of the room until a timer hits zero. Unfortunately, most of the Hunters chicken out and run for the exit, leaving Sung, Joohee, and the expedition’s leader, Mr. Song, exposed. Refusing to let his friend die, Sung asks Song to carry Joohee to safety, facing the statues alone to buy them time.

To the surprise of no one (especially himself), Sung is torn to shreds by the statues, losing an arm and being impaled through the abdomen. As he curses his weakness and reflects on his desire to provide for his sister and mother, the statues close in for the kill. At that moment, a mysterious, glowing HUD appears, asking Sung if he wants to live.

Like many other shonen franchises with long-running, epically proportioned storylines, Fairy Tail has been running for the better part of the last two decades, officially beginning in 2006 as part of Kodansha’s Weekly Shonen Magazine.

The best way to read every Fairy Tail arc, in order

Fairy Tail follows Natsu Dragneel, Lucy Heartfilia, and other important members of Fairy Tail, one of the most powerful wizard guilds in the world. The story goes through several different story arcs that develop the eccentric cast of characters, the guild, and the world they inhabit, all while dropping hints about the mysterious Zeref and the age of dragons, two of the main plots during the latter half of the series original story line.

The current arc follows the sequel series, Fairy Tail: 100 Years Quest, using the same cast of main characters trying to complete the impossible mission known as the “100 Years Quest”, which will be receiving an anime adaptation during the Summer 2024 anime season by studio J.C. Staff.

As can be seen above, Fairy Tail is an expansive franchise, and one of the longer running shonen epics. Something that’s also important to note when looking at the differences between the anime and manga is that the original anime adaptation, which was handled by A-1 Pictures, Dentsu Entertainment, and Satelight.

What is the longest arc in Fairy Tail?

The longest full existing arc in Fairy Tail is the Alvarez Arc with 107 chapters in the manga, although, the longest arc in the anime is the Grand Magic Games arc with 52 episodes compared to Alvarez’s 43 episodes.

We recommend following the Fairy Tail arcs in order, but for those who want the most comprehensive experience of the series. There is a lot to get through; it will be worth it in the long run if you think you will really enjoy the world-building and characters.

Why did Fairy Tail have a time skip?

Warning: The following section contains major spoilers for the rest of the series!

There was a seven-year time skip due to events in the X791 arc which involved the main cast being trapped in a frozen-like state for seven years. This happened a long time ago, showcasing just how long Fairy Tail has actually been running.

Now that you know all of the Fairy Tail arcs you are prepared to go and experience this series for yourself, especially with the series finally making a big comeback this summer with the 100 Years Quest arc finally getting animated and reigniting what fans’ love about the franchise.

With the party more prepared than ever to face the dangers of the dungeon, their journey to rescue Falin from the clutches of the red dragon is sure to get even spicier. Here’s the release date and countdown to Delicious in Dungeon episode 3.

Delicious in Dungeon Episode 3 Release Details & Countdown

Delicious in Dungeon Episode 3 is set to be released on January 18th, 2024, at 8:30 AM Eastern Standard Time. Much like Demon Slayer, Delicious in Dungeon is simulcast, meaning its English dub is uploaded to Netflix while the Japanese version airs in its home country.

Related: Attack on Titan Season 4 Part 4: Release Date, Dub, Trailer, and Episode Count

Delicious in Dungeon’s first season will air throughout winter 2024, and fans of this food-themed fantasy probably won’t want to miss one of its twenty-four episodes. Here’s a release date timezone guide to help you do just that!

Delicious in Dungeon Episode 3 Recap

Realizing they haven’t had a good, fatty meal in a while, the party sets out to gather the eggs of a Basilisk, a massive chicken with a live snake for a tail. Working together to slay the feathery terror, the party cooks the beast’s eggs and shares their meal and a bit of advice with a pair of young adventurers they rescued.

As the party descends into the depths of the second floor, Marcille starts to worry that her friends see her as a burden. After she fails to uproot some shrieking mandrakes from the ground safely, Marcille decides to prove herself by slaying a Big Bat for meat. While her attempt is successful, she’s wounded, and the party apologizes for making her feel useless, assuring her she’s an invaluable member of their team.

In the catacombs, Chilchuck uses his skills as a thief to deactivate traps, barely escaping with his life after Senshi sets a few off. Hoping to use the oil in one of the traps to deep-fry the Big Bat meat, Senshi and Chilchuck work together to prepare a delicious meal for the party, each gaining a deeper appreciation for the other’s skills. With their bellies full, the party then delves deeper into the dungeon.

Classroom of the Elite season 3’s second episode is crammed full of the intense interpersonal drama that defines the series, and it’s clear that Class 1-C’s trials have only just begun. Here’s the release date and countdown to Classroom of the Elite Season 3, Episode 3.

Classroom of the Elite Season 3 Episode 3 Release Details & Countdown

Classroom of the Elite Season 3 Episode 3 is scheduled to premiere on January 17th, 2024, at 10:30 A.M. After the episode airs in Japan, international fans can stream the episode with English subtitles on Crunchyroll at 1:00 AM.

RELATED: Who Does Ayanokoji Kiyotaka End Up With in Classroom of the Elite?

The release date of Classroom of the Elite’s English dub has yet to be announced, but it will likely be released sometime in 2024. Below is a release chart to help you know when new Classroom of the Elite episodes drop in your local timezone.

Classroom of the Elite Season 3 Episode 3 Recap

Ever one to show off, Rokusuke Koenji does everything in his power to push Class 1-C’s buttons, flaunting his physical superiority and taunting Kiyotaka Ayanokōji with the knowledge that he knows he beat up Kakeru Ryūen. Nazuna Asahina also clarifies that she has her eyes on Kiyotaka, agreeing to share information about the other classes with him after he returns an ornament she dropped to rest his awareness.

Things only get more challenging for Class 1-C after Teruhiko Yukimura injures his left on a hike, putting the class in danger of failing the upcoming physical exam. Rather than accept defeat, Teruhiko creates a plan to ensure that every group member does well in one exam, exempting the team from expulsion.

On the day of the exams, Rokusuke’s group passed with flying colors, which resulted in Ikari Momoko’s expulsion. Although she attempts to take Akane Tachibana down with her as part of a plan set in motion by Miyubi Naguma, Manubi Horikita spends many points to save her, deepening the rivalry brewing between him and Naguma.

Sung Jin-woo’s journey is a classic, relatable underdog story, and one of the questions every underdog should answer by the end is who ends up in our scrappy hero’s arms. Here’s who Sung Jin-woo ends up with in Solo Leveling.

Does Sung Jin-woo End up with Anyone in Solo Leveling?

Sung’s love life takes a backseat throughout most of Solo Leveling‘s story since his main goal is earning enough money to support his splintered family. However, the “World’s Weakest Hunter” does find himself caught up in a few romantic entanglements as he works with the mysterious, video game HUD-like System to become stronger.

Related: 5 Best Manhwa Like Solo Leveling

One of the first characters to express romantic interest in Sung is his long-time friend Lee Joo-hee. A B-Rank Hunter and expert healer, Lee is one of the few Hunters who sees Sung as more than a burden when the series begins. Unfortunately, the traumatic ordeal she and Sung go through during the disastrous expedition that gives Sung his signature ability causes her to retire and distance herself from all things Hunter-related.

Of course, anyone in a relationship knows that your first is rarely your last, and Sung gets a second shot at love when he meets Cha Hae-In. An S-Rank Huntress with the unique ability to “smell” other Hunters’ souls, Cha befriends Sung after she realizes he isn’t as greedy or arrogant as the rest of her peers. After fighting alongside Sung against several powerful foes, Cha realizes that her feelings for him have taken a turn for the romantic.

While Sun and Cha’s relationship isn’t given much focus during Solo Leveling, later chapters of the series confirm that the two eventually get married and have a son, Sung Suho. Since the first episode of Solo Leveling introduces Cha much earlier than the original webcomic does, her relationship with Sung may end up getting more attention in the anime.

Blue Exorcist: Shimane Illuminati Saga eases viewers into the action with a low-stakes adventure that re-established Rin, his abilities, and his relationships with his fellow junior exorcists. However, as fans of the Blue Exorcist manga are undoubtedly aware, it’s only the calm before a very intense storm. Here’s the release date and countdown for Blue Exorcist: Shimane Illuminati Saga episode 2.

Blue Exorcist Season 3 Episode 2 Release Details and Countdown

Blue Exorcist: Shimane Illuminati Saga episode 2 will be released on January 14, 2023, at 12:30 AM. After its premiere, the episode will be uploaded to Crunchyroll.

Related: Solo Leveling Episode 2 Countdown – Release Date and Time

So far, there’s no official word on when Blue Exorcist: Shimane Illuminati Saga‘s English dub is coming, but we know precisely when each episode is premiering in most timezones worldwide. Here’s a timezone release guide for Blue Exorcist: Shimane Illuminati Saga.

Blue Exorcist Season 3 Episode 2

Blue Exorcist: Shimane Illuminati Saga episode 1 hits the ground running, reintroducing Rin, his heritage, and his mission. Fresh off of his victory over the Impure King, Rin faces a minor threat when one of his classmates, Godaiin, begins seeing demons.

Eager to help, Rin attempts to convince True Cross Academy’s headmaster, Mephisto Phelles, to give him special eye drops that will make Godaiin unable to perceive demons. During a one-on-one dinner, Mephisto reveals to Rin that he is Samael, the Demon King of Time, giving him some vital advice on how to conceal his extremely vulnerable tail and heart before promising to provide him with the eyedrops if he helps him resolve a “little issue.”

Related: Solo Leveling Episodes 1 & 2 Review

The next day, Rin and his closest friends are tasked by Mephisto to exorcise a malicious spirit inhabiting a painting. After Rin recklessly destroys the painting and unleashes the spirit, the junior exorcists are forced to work together to defeat the demon, introducing or reacquainting viewers with each of their unique abilities through a fantastic action sequence.

After giving Godaiin the eyedrops, Rin reflects on the loneliness his heritage has forced him to endure before grabbing dinner with his friends, among the few who accepted him after they learned the truth. As they depart, Mephisto reflects that Godaiin is just one of many humans beginning to see demons, foreshadowing the looming threat Rin will face.