Winter 2023 Preview
Finally, winter has arrived. While we’re all worried about the upcoming holidays and the dreadful cold (or scorching heat for our friends below the equator! ), anime has returned for another round of good moments and intriguing tales. Don’t think we’re short on winter programming this time around, despite the ridiculous offerings from last fall, as Tokyo Revengers and Vinland Saga, two fan favourites, are back for more, along with new episodes of the perennially popular supernatural series Bungou Stray Dogs and the dungeon crawler Danmachi. Feeling like some fantasy? You’re in for a real treat with everything from Maou Gakuin’s sequel to the second instalment of the Kamitachi series, which focuses on slice-of-life stories, and even some shoujo-flavored sprinkling in Sugar Apple Fairy Tale for (heh) spice. And as Urobutcher fronted Revenger, the soon anticipated Nier: Automata remake, the Legend of Heroes original Northern War, and the sequel to perennial teaser Nagatoro demonstrate, the fun doesn’t end there. If you need some gift stuffers, you could even throw in TRIGUN Stampede and the sneaky underdog Kubo-san wa Boku o Yurusanai.
Although the dark days of winter are frequently painful, anime is back to make everything cheerful and full of life. This is the Winter 2023 Preview from Random Curiosity!
Disclaimer:
The Random Curiosity season preview is a significant effort, thus in order to preserve the calibre of this preview, we’ve distributed it among our active staff (Choya, FJ Freeman, Gabie, Guardian Enzo, Pancakes, Princess Usagi, Zaiden, and Zephyr). In an effort to assist you decide if it suits your interests, we will highlight the elements of each series that we find appealing. Remember to read the Overall Impressions section at the bottom for a broad picture of our seasonal views and opinions. Our Excitement Levels also reveal our visceral gut responses to what we anticipate each show to be.
Disclaimer #2:
Please be aware that not all of the shows running this season are included on this list. It is intended to be as complete as possible, however exclusions have been made for programmes that deviate from the genre’s standard, appear to be targeted for young children, or are only published only on Netflix or another streaming service (refer to the OVA section for mentions on these). The same goes for any programmes that have been cancelled or whose launch date has not yet been confirmed. For detailed lists, particular broadcast dates, and a list of possible sub/dub sources for each series, please see MOON PHASE, syoboi, and Fansub DB. Please poke us if we chance to have missed something important. Also keep in mind to look at the LiA Winter preview for a second take on several of these programmes if you need some other viewpoints.
But most of all, a big thank you to you, the whole Random Curiosity community. It’s your time, attention, and companionship that keep us going, whether you read every article or just a select few, participate in and/or give to our Discord channel, want to support us on Patreon and Kofi, or just sometimes browse the site. Since you made it possible for us to write about anime, here’s to another enjoyable season of it that we can all enjoy!
Technical Note:
The time and date of each show’s debut are listed in the schedule below. The “Top” links on the right will return you to this page when you visit the entry that corresponds to each of the links. The back and advance buttons on your browser may also be used to navigate between links that you’ve already visited. All timings are presented in 24-hour, relative-day format, with the extension of the time to indicate the day to which it pertains. For instance, to indicate that the programme aired late on Thursday night, Friday morning at 1:30AM would be changed to Thursday at 25:30. Season carryovers, streaming series, and shows without definite broadcast dates are all removed until further information about their air dates is made available.
Ningen Fushin no Boukensha-tachi ga Sekai o Sukuu You Desu | 人間不信の冒険者たちが世界を救うようです
| Apparently, Disillusioned Adventurers Will Save the World | |
| Animation: Geek Toys | Premiere: January 3rd, 2023 |
| Genre: Fantasy | Airtime (GMT+9): Tuesdays at 23:30 |
| Episodes: 12 | Station: ABEMA |
| Information Links: AniDB, ANN Encyclopedia, MyAnimeList, Syoboi, Wikipedia (EN), Wikipedia (JP) | |
| Join the conversation @ningenfushinPR |
The intrepid Nick (Kobayashi Yuusuke) is not a content guy. Despite receiving high praise from his mentor Argus for their most recent, successful assignment, Nick is taken aback when it turns out that one of the party members stole a portion of the compensation and Argus places the responsibility on him. Personally. Nick finds himself drunk and irate in a local pub after being summarily dismissed for this act he did not do, but also with a fresh chance. It seems that other explorers have lately been deceived for various reasons, and if there’s one thing suffering enjoys, it’s companionship. Nick will throw the best party ever with the help of his new bar pals, and he’ll make sure it brings in a lot more money than his last one ever did.
Ningen Fushin no Boukensha-tachi, unlike some other season-mates, seems promising despite how much pure fantasy is planned for this season. The main selling factor for this one, apart from the vengeance theme at play, is the typical fantasy backdrop, similar to what we saw in shows like Slayers before isekai took over. A group of irritated and weary explorers looking to partake in some good ol’ fashioned adventure? And with a stronger emphasis on the dynamics of the party than really saving the world? Please sign me up, oh sure. Although I wouldn’t start dreaming of an impending masterpiece considering that this is a light book adaption and Geek Toys isn’t exactly the most skilled of companies, there is enough to support anticipating a passable result. I’d suggest keeping a look out for this one whether you’re a fan of fantasy or simply appreciate character-driven tales since there’s a very strong possibility it could just surprise you.
Tensei Oujo to Tensai Reijou no Mahou Kakumei | 転生王女と天才令嬢の魔法革命
The Magical Revolution of the Reincarnated Princess and the Genius Young Lady
| Animation: Diomedea | |
| Genre: Fantasy, Romance | Premiere: January 4th, 2023 |
| Episodes: 12 | Airtime (GMT+9): Wednesdays at 21:00 |
| Information Links: AniDB, ANN Encyclopedia, MyAnimeList, Syoboi, Wikipedia (EN), Wikipedia (JP) | Station: AT-X |
| Join the conversation @tenten_kakumei | |
The acquisition of a unique and exceptional talent is one of the important traits of a protagonist. This is the case with the gorgeous Princess Anisphia (Senbongi Sayaka), who challenged her country’s nobility in spite of being thought to be incompetent at using normal magic by creating “magicology,” a novel magical theory based on memories from her previous existence. She takes great delight in her status as the kingdom’s largest troublemaker, which she earned via her use of technology, science, and witchcraft-based magic. I’m unable to wed a guy! It must be a lady if I’m going to have a lover! Declares a passionate Anisphia, only to arrive on the scene owing to a supernatural accident and abduct her brother’s rejected fiancée Lady Euphelia (Iwami Manaka).
An adaptation of Piero Karasu’s light novel of the same name, The Magical Revolution of the Reincarnated Princess and the Genius Young Lady. The evolution of the ladies’ attraction to one another leading to their final yuri romance has been appreciated in this series, which I believe is something we don’t frequently witness. If an isekai with action, humour, magic, and a slow-burning romance between adorable girls tickles your fancy, don’t pass this one up. So be sure to see it before the debut! The first episode of this beautiful trip was aired beforehand on the Kadokawa YouTube page back on December 10th.
Koori Zokusei Danshi to Cool na Douryou Joshi | 氷属性男子とクールな同僚女子
The Ice Guy and His Cool Female Colleague
| Animation: Zero-G | Premiere: January 4th, 2023 |
| Genre: Comedy, Romance | Airtime (GMT+9): Wednesdays at 22:30 |
| Episodes: 12 | Station: TOKYO MX |
| Information Links: AniDB, ANN Encyclopedia, MyAnimeList, Syoboi, Wikipedia (EN), Wikipedia (JP) | |
| Join the conversation @ice_cool_anime |
Sparks fly – at least on Himuro-kun’s end – when the snow-power clan descendant Himuro-kun (Kobayashi Chiaki) meets the cool-headed Fuyutsuki san (Ishikawa Yui). Sadly, despite the flames of love being lit, the ice cannot be melted. Every time he has an emotional outburst, his icy abilities are triggered, leaving his office perpetually covered in snow. Will the woman in question be able to see through the frost to Himuro-pleasant kun’s disposition?
This seems to be a rather simple love tale. Even the names of the characters reference their roles: Himuro (literally, “Snowy Room”), who transforms the workplace into a winter paradise, and Fuyutsuki (literally, “Winter Moon”), who serves as his love interest. There is nothing inherently wrong with a tried-and-true recipe as long as it is executed flawlessly. Konparu Tomoko, who was formerly in charge of the scriptwriting for Kimi ni Todoke, Nana, and Touch, is now in charge of the series composition, so I would anticipate that to be the case. Given that ladies (Yuki-onna) are often the ones with snow abilities in Japanese tradition, the supernatural aspect is particularly fascinating. Despite the fact that the story’s atmospheres are very different, the fact that the MC is a snowman rather than a snowwoman instantly made me think of Akira from Kemono Jihen. If romance and the supernatural appeal to you, Koori Zokusei Danshi to Cool na Douryou Joshi is the show for you.
Bungou Stray Dogs (2023) | 文豪ストレイドッグス
| Animation: Bones | Premiere: January 4th, 2023 |
| Genre: Action, Supernatural | Airtime (GMT+9): Wednesdays at 23:00 |
| Episodes: 12 | Station: TOKYO MX |
| Information Links: AniDB, ANN Encyclopedia, MyAnimeList, Syoboi, Wikipedia (EN), Wikipedia (JP) | |
| Join the conversation @bungosd_anime |
In Japan’s Armed Detective Agency, characters from literature come to life as super-strong detectives with the names of great writers set to work exposing society’s supernatural underbelly that poses a danger to Japan’s security. The Armed Detective Agency is at its wits’ end with a large case that might be their “end of narrative” after falling into Dostoyevsky’s trap where the series last left off. The military Hunting Dogs, who stand in for Russian wordsmiths, are confronted by Dazai Osamu (Mamoru Miyano), Nakajima Atsushi (Uemura Yuuto), Edogawa Ranpo (Kamiya Hiroshi), and the other characters. What are the possibilities that someone will draw Chekov’s gun?
Although it has been a while since I watched this series, I seem to remember that I really liked it. The conflicts and story arcs were intriguing, and I love how imaginatively writers and their works are given supernatural abilities. I’m happy to see the plot is being developed after the season’s cliffhanger. The crew from prior seasons, including playwright Enokido Youji and director Igarashi Takuya, are still still employed. We can anticipate consistency in the production on all fronts as Bones is once again the studio in command. Season 4 is now out if, like me, you have been anxiously awaiting it. You still have time to catch up before the debut if you haven’t watched it yet and love classic literature or supernatural action.
Technoroid: Overmind | テクノロイド オーバーマインド
| Animation: Doga Kobo | Premiere: January 4th, 2023 |
| Genre: Music | Airtime (GMT+9): Wednesdays at 24:00 |
| Episodes: 12 | Station: TV Tokyo |
| Information Links: AniDB, ANN Encyclopedia, MyAnimeList, Syoboi, Wikipedia (EN), Wikipedia (JP) | |
| Join the conversation @TECHNOROID_info |
In the Entertainment Tower Babel, a new hope established by those who have lost the joy of light as humanity’s activities are constrained by the global climate change brought on by the expanded sun, is where Technoroid: Overmind is set. The anime shows distinct units and personalities battling for Babel’s top spot while seeking performances that touch both humans and androids on an emotional level.
This raises the question, “What sort of bogus science is this?” since it seems to be an anime about adorable robot lads singing to revive hope in a suffering mankind. The android guys are now singing in a competition musical production in order to climb the Tower of Babel and become the best? The sceptic in me can only be properly sceptical given the little information I could gather about this programme. It’s up against people like Vivy, after all.
I’ll be watching the first few episodes of this one (since I’ve developed a slight obsession with RC boy idol shows, heh), but from what I’ve read, it seems like this show is more concerned with making the boys look cute than it is with properly developing its world. I was thus intrigued but not too thrilled. Just let’s hope it turns out to be something respectable.
Tsurune: Tsunagari no Issha | ツルネ -つながりの一射-
Tsurune 2nd Season -Connecting Shot-
| Animation: Kyoto Animation | Premiere: January 4th, 2023 |
| Genre: Drama, Sports | Airtime (GMT+9): Wednesdays at 24:00 |
| Episodes: 13 | Station: TOKYO MX |
| Information Links: AniDB, ANN Encyclopedia, MyAnimeList, Syoboi, Wikipedia (EN), Wikipedia (JP) | |
| Join the conversation @tsurune_anime |
I have a curious past with Tsurune. It’s one of the very few shows that I’ve completely stopped watching before picking back up (maybe three or four at most). The whole product was a tug-of-war between its strengths and shortcomings, but there were always things it accomplished really well, including spectacular graphics. The mentorship connection between the main character and the Shinto priest and archer who takes him under his wing ultimately carved out a significant enough role at the cost of what I didn’t like (the school clichés) to make it worthwhile to discuss.
Tsurune is an illustration of what has grown to be one of KyoAni’s specialties: gloomy, loosely shounen-ai (age check) tales about schoolboys and their psychological battles. Another reason Kyoto Animation’s business strategy is so distinctive in the sector is that it is one of the studio’s least economically successful series. They actively prefer to animate content that they completely control, which is mostly (previously) obscure LNs like Tsurune. In contrast to more well-known works like Hyouka, which had a typical production committee and the implication of revenue-sharing, those receive movies and numerous seasons.
Tsurune follows the usual trend that the less popular a KyoAni series is commercially, the more I enjoy it (Hyouka being a notable exception). There are clear examples from the studio that provide greater fanservice, hit more buttons, and generate more revenue even within this genre. But the attractiveness of this series is predicated on its emotional candour and moderation in those kinds of situations. Tsurune is undoubtedly not a work of art, but it exhibits a side of KyoAni that I wish we saw more of.
Tomo-chan wa Onnanoko! | トモちゃんは女の子!
Tomo-chan Is a Girl!
| Animation: Lay-duce | Premiere: January 4th, 2023 |
| Genre: Comedy, Romance | Airtime (GMT+9): Wednesdays at 24:30 |
| Episodes: 13 | Station: TOKYO MX |
| Information Links: AniDB, ANN Encyclopedia, MyAnimeList, Syoboi, Wikipedia (EN), Wikipedia (JP) | |
| Join the conversation @tomo_chan_ani |
Kubota “Jun” Junichirou, Aizawa Tomo’s childhood friend and best bro, has always regarded her as “one of the boys” (Ishikawa Kaito). Together, they spar, roughhouse, and support one another. It would be ideal to be in their relationship if you ever wanted to be in the bro zone. But Tomo feels that is insufficient. Since she first met Jun, she has been in love with him. But Jun never notices the indicators of Tomo’s adoration since he is unaware and she is muscle-brained. To make matters worse, Jun doesn’t think of Tomo as a woman and believes that she has always been his closest friend. Will Jun continue to ignore the cues she gives him that her heart is his, or will Tomo’s thoughts eventually reach the love of her life? Discover the answer in this musclebound, heart-pounding romantic comedy.
I recall this becoming viral on the internet about the same time as Nagatoro-san and Komi-san did. It had the same ambition of transforming an unconventional female into a conventional beauty. Tomo-chan wa Onnanoko!, however, catches the ideal of seeing a tomboy fall madly in love, unlike other two, which caught the excitement of assembling a friend group for the timid girl or winning the heart of a cruel girl. When a rom-com feminises a tomboy character as if it’s a phase they should grow out of, it may be very boring. I’ll confess that I have some doubts about their motives, and I’m also quite concerned about how much Tomo will have to alter in order for Jun to recognise her. However, it’s shaping out to be a lighthearted comedy with a hint of romance, which should allay worries that Tomo would be diminished as a character due to her athletic pursuits and tomboy appeal. Although most of us are watching this for Tomo’s appeal as a tough-as-nails female who can scrap as hard as even the strongest males in school, traditional beauty standards be damned. As Tomo-chan raises her dukes this Winter, let’s hope that everything turns out to be as promising as it seems.
Revenger | REVENGER
| Animation: Ajia-dou | Premiere: January 5th, 2023 |
| Genre: Action, Thriller | Airtime (GMT+9): Thursdays at 21:00 |
| Episodes: | Station: AT-X |
| Information Links: AniDB, ANN Encyclopedia, MyAnimeList, Syoboi, Wikipedia (EN), Wikipedia (JP) | |
| Join the conversation @Revenger_anime |
The most recent classic samurai/ninja thriller, Revenger, is the creation of none other than Urobuchi Gen. Revenger, which centres on the master assassin Usui Yuen (Umehara Yuuichirou), examines Yuen’s inquiry into a string of high-profile killings committed against the dominant Satsuma samurai clan. Despite the simplicity and reward of Yuen’s new work, the simple murders against a well-known clan that begin there take a turn when Yuen meets Kurima Raizo (Kasama Jun), a survivor of one of the assaults. Together, Yuen and Raizo rapidly learn that Satsuma’s targeting is motivated by more than just fame and wealth and that someone is out for much more. Whether Yuen and Raizo can endure long enough to discover the truth is the only thing in doubt.
Anything with the name of the Urobutcher linked to it is still worthy of attention, especially something like Revenger, even if the Urobutcher’s golden period of anime has essentially come to an end (Madoka and Psycho-Pass are already more than 10 years old!). A shogunate samurai/ninja background (choose between the Tokugawa or Ashikaga period) meets a mystery thriller narrative with lots of chance for blade-based slaughter, making this one seem to be suited for the dark and grim. The existing PVs don’t disclose much other than delectable animation and the typical assortment of samurai sidekicks and finishing techniques, but considering the reasonably strong cast and the fact that Kemono Jihen’s Fujimori Masaya is serving as director, I feel optimistic about this programme. We won’t know more until that launch, much as with other anime originals, but this is definitely one winter programme that every anime viewer should keep an eye on.
Spy Kyoushitsu | スパイ教室
Spy Classroom
| Animation: Feel | Premiere: January 5th, 2023 |
| Genre: Action, School-Life | Airtime (GMT+9): Thursdays at 22:30 |
| Episodes: 12 | Station: AT-X |
| Information Links: AniDB, ANN Encyclopedia, MyAnimeList, Syoboi, Wikipedia (EN), Wikipedia (JP) | |
| Join the conversation @spyroom_anime |
What do you say when you learn that you’re going to be killed while carrying out a mission? You may depend on me, says Lily (Amamiya Sora), our young adolescent heroine. The plot follows Lily and seven other inexperienced recruits as they undergo espionage training at a school in the Republic of Deen. Ten years after the end of the world war, rival nations are now engaged in covert operations to exchange vital intelligence. The eight adolescent girls that make up the Tomoshibi squad were chosen to carry out a task that was judged so difficult that it was likely they would perish. Their charismatic leader and instructor Klaus (Umehara Yuichiro) employs unconventional teaching techniques. On top of everything else, what’s the catch? Before being transported into enemy territory, they have 30 days to train at a mansion where they reside.
When I think of “war” with young girls, my mind immediately goes to Girls und Panzer, one of my favourite shows from back then. Granted, the deployment of tanks was the only element in the series that had any connection to the battle. Although I’m more or less a fan of the “cute ditzy ladies” striving to accomplish “important” things cliché, I’m dubious about this next series. Although it may be a fan favourite, I believe that cute anime heroines doing adorable (serious) things is overdone. Although I’m not acquainted with the original material, I assume there will be some excitement and action as well as mistakes and perhaps some triumphs. The presence of a female spy squad should surely make me happy, but I am wary that they will only succeed by chance and with good fortune on their side. I’m willing to be totally wrong about this narrative, so I’ll watch the premiere briefly before forming any firm judgements.
Dungeon ni Deai o Motomeru no wa Machigatte Iru Darouka: Familia Myth IV
(2023) | ダンジョンに出会いを求めるのは間違っているだろうか FAMILIA MYTH IV (2023)
| Animation: J.C. Staff | Premiere: January 5th, 2023 |
| Genre: Fantasy | Airtime (GMT+9): Thursdays at 23:00 |
| Episodes: 11 | Station: ABEMA |
| Information Links: AniDB, ANN Encyclopedia, MyAnimeList, Syoboi, Wikipedia (EN), Wikipedia (JP) | |
| Join the conversation @danmachi_anime |
The second episode of the fourth season of DanMachi, Dungeon ni Deai wo Motomeru no wa Machigatteiru Darou ka IV: Fuka Shou – Yakusai-hen, is released by J.C. Staff. The Hestia Familia completed their first Guild-mandated task by exploring the lower levels of the Dungeon during the first season, and Bell Cranel (Matsuoka Yoshitsugu) became Level 4. Bell is subsequently brought into a murder inquiry after nearly escaping the terrifying excursion when a trader’s death is discovered outside of town and Ryuu (Hayami Saori) is identified as the suspected killer. When the Juggernaut, an Irregular monster, suddenly appears while Bell and the execution squad search for Ryuu, information about the Astrea family’s death five years earlier comes to light. Ryuu also helps Bell fight against the Dungeon’s defensive system. After this combat, in which Bell and Ryuu were both knocked to the 37th Floor, the second course will pick up where the first left off. The two are left to fend for themselves in the “Deep Floors,” and although wounded and away from their friends, they must battle new foes for their lives. As they encounter a Floor Boss up above without his assistance, the remainder of Bell’s group finds themselves in a desperate situation of their own. The cast and crew from the first cour will be back for the second cour.
At this point, not much more needs to be said as the DanMachi train continues moving. Despite the pacing flaws and the epithet “rushed” being associated with the series throughout its duration, the adaptation manages to build up some truly excellent moments that still send shivers down your spine. The franchise is still very popular. Given that the opening episode of the fourth season had a more steady rhythm than those of the previous seasons, it is encouraging that the adaptation is still passably good despite its imperfections and a tribute to the brilliance of the original work. The second season will adapt one of the greatest volumes of the original material, if not the best, and there should be more episodes than necessary to cover everything, thus this is probably the best cour of the adaptation so far.
Onii-chan wa Oshimai! | お兄ちゃんはおしまい！
Onimai: I’m Now Your Sister!
| Animation: Studio Bind | Premiere: January 5th, 2023 |
| Genre: Comedy, Slice of Life | Airtime (GMT+9): Thursdays at 23:30 |
| Episodes: 12 | Station: AT-X |
| Information Links: AniDB, ANN Encyclopedia, MyAnimeList, Syoboi, Wikipedia (EN), Wikipedia (JP) | |
| Join the conversation @onimai_anime |
Previously, Oyama Mahiro (Kouno Marika) was your typical gamer man who loved eroge. After their younger sister Mihari experiments on them over night, Mahiro awakens from a night’s sleep in a girl’s body. Mihari persists on studying Mahiro despite the fact that her experiment didn’t turn out as she had hoped in order to understand how her baby sister would navigate girlhood. Even though Mahiro is set on returning to his boyhood’s isolated days, he discovers that living as a female can provide him a greater chance to meet new people and acclimatise to unfamiliar situations.
Genres that were once ideal candidates for comedy now face distinct difficulties as a result of time. Prior to the aughts, when cross-dressing characters started to appear often in anime, the gender-bender subgenre had a stronghold on the medium. Some contemporary figures have continued this trend by embracing the exoticism of androgyny while avoiding any examination of their own identities. However, anime storylines have evolved sufficiently in recent years that androgyny is now viewed less as a practical joke and more as a platform to explore how these characters see gender and relationships in general. A lot of current television series employ gender bending to examine how conformity may harm our relationships with both ourselves and others around us. Are people so fixated on maintaining appearances and conforming to the status quo that they are unable to let themselves relax that it prevents them from letting themselves to let go that it prevents us from being ourselves when we attempt to fit into the little box society sets us in? According to what I’m seeing in Oniichan wa Oshimai!, Mahiro views girlhood as a chance to explore a world outside of their own as a young woman who has often resisted having hikikomori inclinations in favour of starting a social life. While this already addresses how young girls are expected to have their lives together more quickly, I can also see a scenario in which it tends toward being the only thing that will push Mahiro to form relationships with them rather than once again retiring to a lonely existence. When Oniichan wa Oshimai! debuts this Winter, it will be clear if it intends to go beyond the mellow vibe of a slice-of-life anime or not.
Hyouken no Majutsushi ga Sekai o Suberu | 冰剣の魔術師が世界を統べる
The Iceblade Sorcerer Shall Rule the World
| Animation: Cloud Hearts | Premiere: January 5th, 2023 |
| Genre: Fantasy | Airtime (GMT+9): Thursdays at 25:28 |
| Episodes: 12 | Station: TBS |
| Information Links: AniDB, ANN Encyclopedia, MyAnimeList, Syoboi, Wikipedia (EN), Wikipedia (JP) | |
| Join the conversation @hyouken_pr |
Hyouken no Majutsushi, which is based on the same-named light novel series, is set in a society where the Iceblade Magician, the most formidable fighter, is well-known. Few people are aware of Ray White, the Iceblade Magician who guided his country to triumph three years earlier despite the fame and money that came with it (Enoki Junya). Ray, a young lad who has grown weary of living in luxury, chooses to enrol in Arnold Academy and live like any other student. Ray definitely achieves his desire as he is instantly shunned for being a “commoner” (despite having friends), but his background isn’t one to just keep silent. Ray quickly learns that there is a scheme endangering the life he wishes to lead behind the gates of the institution. Ray may want to move on from his past, but he may be forced to go back there.
We have another another paint-by-numbers fantasy on our hands because of the magic university setting, the overpowering desire fulfilment MC with a troubled history, and – oh yeah – lots of harem potential red haired twintails are the finest at work. It’s difficult to avoid assuming the worst when you see the plot and setting at play here (and much more so given the light novel beginnings), especially when combined with a new studio in Cloud Hearts and a figurative one-man production show in Takata Masahiro. Too many indications lead to a crude and unreliable source of information, and too many evidence point to a horrifying hatchet job. Enoki Junya makes for a great lead, and the PV is certainly passable, but until we actually see this one in play, I’d strongly advise hedging any hype bets you may have. Being pleasantly pleased is usually preferable than being extremely dissatisfied.
Isekai Nonbiri Nouka | 異世界のんびり農家
Farming Life in Another World
| Animation: Zero-G | Premiere: January 6th, 2023 |
| Genre: Fantasy, Slice of Life | Airtime (GMT+9): Fridays at 21:00 |
| Episodes: | Station: AT-X |
| Information Links: AniDB, ANN Encyclopedia, MyAnimeList, Syoboi, Wikipedia (EN), Wikipedia (JP) | |
| Join the conversation @nonbiri_nouka |
Machio Hiraku (Abe Atsushi), a salaryman, dies at the age of 39 after an unfortunate terminal illness. However. God in His infinite grace chooses to grant Hiraku a new life in a different world along with four wishes. So not all is lost from the preemptive journey into the firmament. What does Hiraku want then? Why? For several reasons, including having a healthy body (obviously), leading a carefree life, being able to communicate in the local tongue. Wherever he goes, and ultimately becoming a farmer. Greetings from the upcoming cosy isekai field adventure.
In all honesty, there isn’t much to say about Isekai Nonbiri Nouka that isn’t already obvious from that brief introduction. This series is very much a slice-of-life one with a focus on cosiness and casual exploration and a dash of cutesy romcom fun and games. Or, to put it another way, a slightly less overt version of Noumin Kanren’s antics from the previous season. By God (heh), Hiraku won’t even break a sweat while farming and snagging all the girls. or exces sweat. I wouldn’t anticipate any major gaffes or hilarious trainwrecks here because the cast and crew are fairly standard and the production studio in Zero-G is capable and experienced with these shows, but ultimately, personal preference will be the deciding factor. This winter, give Isekai Nonbiri Nouka a try if you enjoy isekai or are in the market for some new seasonal comfort food. It won’t let you down.
Sugar Apple Fairy Tale | シュガーアップル・フェアリーテイル
| Animation: J.C. Staff | Premiere: January 6th, 2023 |
| Genre: Fantasy, Romance | Airtime (GMT+9): Fridays at 21:30 |
| Episodes: | Station: AT-X |
| Information Links: AniDB, ANN Encyclopedia, MyAnimeList, Syoboi, Wikipedia (EN), Wikipedia (JP) | |
| Join the conversation @sugarapple_PR |
There is no more prestigious job in the Kingdom of Highland than Silver Sugar Master. The Master is a pâtissier unlike any other who crafts the best confections from sugar and may only be given their title at the request of royalty. It’s a status Ann Halford (Nukui Yuka), a renowned Master’s daughter, has always dreamed to, so when her mother dies away and the royal family announces a competition for sugar sculpting in far-off Lewiston that would award the title to its victor, she sets out to make her dream a reality. However, realising it forces Ann to hire the obnoxious fairy slave Challe (Mizunaka Masaaki) as her bodyguard since the roads are unsafe, she isn’t the best fighter, and fairies like Challe are seen as proper protective fare. Claim to Ann’s culinary title may not be the most important issue for her, as she is about to learn in a society of masters and slaves.
Although there have been a few shoujo-style anime over the previous few seasons, Sugar Apple Fairy Tale may be the first to really embody the subgenre in recent memory. If it isn’t already clear, this novel is an adventure tale with overt fairy tale influences that uses cooking as the setting to motivate a secluded girl to discover the truth about herself and the world around her. It resembles Seijo no Maryoku wa Bannou Desu in some ways, but the romance is seen through the prism of enslavement and the isekai is replaced with proper fantasy. Slavery and its morals will play a part in this novel, as the summary clearly states. The good news is that this is an adaptation of a completed light novel series, and the source material is perfect for J.C. Staff. If the show can match the vivid atmosphere and complex morals at stake, it should have no trouble becoming stunning. If fantasy or female-focused romance even somewhat piques your interest, I wouldn’t make any firm predictions just yet, but I would definitely keep an eye out for this one.
Buddy Daddies | Buddy Daddies
| Animation: P.A. Works | Premiere: January 6th, 2023 |
| Genre: Comedy | Airtime (GMT+9): Fridays at 24:00 |
| Episodes: 12 | Station: TOKYO MX |
| Information Links: AniDB, ANN Encyclopedia, MyAnimeList, Syoboi, Wikipedia (EN), Wikipedia (JP) | |
| Join the conversation @BuddyD_project |
Rei Suwa (Uchiyama Kouki) is a skilled assassin who cohabitates with Kazuki Kurusu and is a criminal contractor (Toyonaga Toshiyuki). While Kazuki is reserved and likes to play video games in his spare time, Rei is well known for his love of gambling and ladies. When a four-year-old Miri Unasaka (Kino Hina), the daughter of a mafia leader, unintentionally walks into a hotel shootout while looking for her father, the two unexpectedly find themselves in charge of looking after the little girl.
There is a lot to comprehend in this situation: a comedy programme about two “best friends” who “live together” while ostensibly attempting to emulate Spy x Family’s success. One of them enjoys playing poker. and females. yet lives with his closest friend? BL who? No, not in my quiet Christian neighbourhood! However, engaging in yaoi sub-context may be enjoyable to some but irritating to others, so I dunno Sherlock, I’m not sure about this one.
It’s odd since P.A. Works, the company that created Aquatope, has a strong pedigree here (which also has roommates vibes). Aniplex, the other producer, is known for seeking out ground-breaking material. I thus have no idea how this particular concert will come out. I’m too old to fool around with subtext, but this one is definitely going to be intriguing.
Ars no Kyojuu | アルスの巨獣
Giant Beasts of Ars
| Animation: Asahi Production | Premiere: January 6th, 2023 |
| Genre: Fantasy | Airtime (GMT+9): Fridays at 25:25 |
| Episodes: 12 | Station: MBS・TBS |
| Information Links: AniDB, ANN Encyclopedia, MyAnimeList, Syoboi, Wikipedia (EN), Wikipedia (JP) | |
| Join the conversation @ars_giant |
Most people find life to be difficult, but in the realm of Ars no Kyojuu, where man-eating creatures roam the earth, this is particularly true. These animals are actually sought after by determined hunters for fun, money, and power; they support human civilization, of which Jiro (Morikawa Toshiyuki) is but a minor part. Jiro, who has had close scrapes with death, simply wants to continue alive via his hunts, but his daily routine is dramatically interrupted when he meets a girl called Kuumi (Youmiya Hina). Jiro chooses on the spur of the moment to free Kuumi from her pursuers despite not knowing anything about her other than the fact that she is being pursued by a group of sketchy individuals. Jiro is unaware that his actions would have far-reaching effects, however. Jiro and his new friend are about to learn the true meaning of what it means to be human, as there are rumours of experimenting and sinister plots afoot.
We all know how unpredictable anime originals can be at times, but Ars no Kyojuu definitely has more going for it than others. By itself, an Attack on Titan meets Monster Hunter premise with a fantasy setting and a respectable amount of mystery to pique interest is sufficient for that, but when you add in writing duties being handled by Kaihou Norimitsu of Akudama Drive fame as well as some delectable animation work, I’m at least cautiously optimistic. It’s not all sunshine and rainbows here, mind you; this is also the creation of DMM and Asahi Productions (neither of whom have gorgeous portfolios, much alone unique works), but hey, we’ve definitely seen more defined notions in recent times fall flat on their faces. In conclusion, although Ars no Kyojuu is definitely not a programme that should be excited, any enthusiast of fantasy or action should at the very least keep a watch on it. Stranger programmes have, after all, ended up dominating the seasonal charts.
Inu ni Nattara Suki na Hito ni Hirowareta. | 犬になったら好きな人に拾われた.
My Life as Inukai-san’s Dog
| Animation: Quad | Premiere: January 6th, 2023 |
| Genre: School-Life, Supernatural | Airtime (GMT+9): Fridays at 25:35 |
| Episodes: 12 | Station: TOKYO MX |
| Information Links: AniDB, ANN Encyclopedia, MyAnimeList, Syoboi, Wikipedia (EN), Wikipedia (JP) | |
| Join the conversation @inuninattara |
Our protagonist (Umeda Shuuichirou) is now having a harder time at school after falling for Iunkai Karen, the coolest and most attractive girl in the class (Aizawa Saya). Would he be content with being her dog? He would do everything to be in her life. He isn’t given the chance, though, as he one day awakens within the body of Karen’s beloved dog Pochita. He will have to live on dog food for the remainder of his short life, but he will also get to spend more time with the person he loves. He also gets to play rough while pretending to be a dog with some of her closest friends and family members. Will he make every effort to go back into his human body, where he belongs, or will he attempt to find a method to keep living as his crush’s dog? On Inu ni Nattara Suki na Hito ni Hirowareta, only time will tell.
When I first learned about this anime, I had two main impressions: first, it was humorous to see another Pochita following Chainsaw Man, and second, it was clear that this programme was about someone’s obsession. Based on the teaser and the subject matter, we may anticipate seeing a lot of sequences in which these women are exposed while Pochita submissively obeys his new attractive master and her adorable companions. As so many people will be tuned in to this under the notion that it would tap into the kink of wanting to be a pretty girl’s dog, the phrase “gosh I wish it were me” instantly comes to mind. Despite the fact that the dog is called Pochita, Inu ni Nattara Suki na Hito ni Hirowareta is really directed towards individuals like Denji who turn into rabid dogs after being lavished with attention by attractive females. This is a sensation that the programme, which immerses viewers in Pochita’s point of view as he experiences what it’s like to be treated like a real dog, embraces. The real test, when Inu ni Nattara Suki na Hito ni Hirowareta wags its tail this Winter, will be if this will draw in that same audience.
Tsundere Akuyaku Reijou Liselotte to Jikkyou no Endou-kun to Kaisetsu no
Kobayashi-san | ツンデレ悪役令嬢リーゼロッテと実況の遠藤くんと解説の小林さん
Endo and Kobayashi Live! The Latest on Tsundere Villainess Lieselotte
| Animation: Tezuka Productions | Premiere: January 6th, 2023 |
| Genre: Fantasy, Romance | Airtime (GMT+9): Fridays at 25:55 |
| Episodes: 12 | Station: MBS / TBS |
| Information Links: AniDB, ANN Encyclopedia, MyAnimeList, Syoboi, Wikipedia (EN), Wikipedia (JP) | |
| Join the conversation @tsunlise_pr |
A new villain replaces the protagonist, Isekai? Well, not really, but kind of. Endou-Play-by-Play kun’s and Kobayashi-Color san’s Commentary on the Tsundere Villainess Two worlds are present in Liselotte. On the one hand, there is the present-day Japan. Kobayashi Shihono (Hanazawa Kana) and Endou Aoto (Ishikawa Kaito), junior high school students and members of the broadcasting club, begin playing the wildly popular otome game MagiKoi at this point. The charming Kobayashi-san instead presents a chance for Endou-kun to spend more time with her after she makes a moving statement about the terrible villain who perishes in practically every path in the game. Along with her estranged fiancé, Crown Prince Siegwald, and our charming and outspoken tsundere noble Lady Liselotte (Kusunoki Tomori) (Nakamura Yuuichi). Prince Siegwald first becomes aware that he possesses a talent passed down through the royal family’s generations: the capacity to hear and communicate with the divine voices from their pantheon—during a battle scene in which he hears strange voices in his head. Will Prince Siegwald be able to follow Endou-kun and Kobayashi-advice san’s in order to rescue his country and possibly also convince him of how adorable his tsundere fiancée truly is?
I’ve actually read a few chapters of the manga, and I thought it was a very fun, light read. I believe there is sufficient tension for the plot to be engaging and not simply a joke. The inclusion of colour commentators Endou-kun and Kobayashi-san, as well as their interactions with the Prince and among themselves, does depart from the genre of “rescue the villain in an otome game.” I’m not very knowledgeable about the world of animation companies (I just know the major names), but the news that Tezuka Productions is the company behind this one surprised me considering their consistency. I might or might not be completely in love with Nakamura-voice… san’s
Kaiko Sareta Ankoku Heishi (30-dai) no Slow na Second Life |
解雇された暗黒兵士(30代)のスローなセカンドライフ
The Slow Second Life of the Retired Dark Soldier in His 30s
| Animation: Encourage Films | Premiere: January 7th, 2023 |
| Genre: Fantasy | Airtime (GMT+9): Saturdays at 22:00 |
| Episodes: 12 | Station: TOKYO MX |
| Information Links: AniDB, ANN Encyclopedia, MyAnimeList, Syoboi, Wikipedia (EN), Wikipedia (JP) | |
| Join the conversation @ankokuheishi_PR |
Kaiko sareta Ankoku Heishi, a light book series by the same name, follows the story of Dariel, a 30-year-old man played by Sugita Tomokazu, and his unfulfilling existence. Dariel, a former soldier in the army of the Demon Lord, was dismissed because of a lack of magical skill and because the new Demon Lord did not like having people with no talent on the squad. Even though Dariel is out and by himself, things aren’t all that awful; after saving a village girl from a monster while lost in the wilderness, Dariel finds a new house and, more significantly, makes a significant discovery. Underneath his magic-restricted skin, there seems to be more power than first appears, strength that could just be sufficient to change this ex-fate. soldier’s
These days, fantasy adaptations are definitely treading on old ground, aren’t they? Kaiko Sareta Ankoku Heishi very much follows in the footsteps of, say, Shin no Nakama, where an outcast leader-type character is given a second chance thanks to village life, colourful citizens, numerous problems, and a dash of hidden OP abilities. The demonic origins are a unique twist on the standard concept. Oh, and don’t forget about the harem building. Even while all of this does not guarantee that it will be a failure (positive thinking! ), having reasonable expectations is undoubtedly the best course of action. This one will easily check all the boxes if you like lighthearted fantasy that adds some real action to the slice-of-life story. There are many reasons to expect a good production from a cast and studio experienced in this genre. You could certainly do worse if you’re looking for some straightforward and uncomplicated fantasy adventuring than Kaiko Sareta Ankoku Heishi, even though it may not be one of this season’s standout highlights.
Otonari no Tenshi-sama ni Itsunomanika Dame Ningen ni Sareteita Ken |
お隣の天使様にいつの間にか駄目人間にされていた件
The Angel Next Door Spoils Me Rotten
| Animation: Project No.9 | Premiere: January 7th, 2023 |
| Genre: Comedy, Romance | Airtime (GMT+9): Saturdays at 22:30 |
| Episodes: 12 | Station: TOKYO MX |
| Information Links: AniDB, ANN Encyclopedia, MyAnimeList, Syoboi, Wikipedia (EN), Wikipedia (JP) | |
| Join the conversation @tenshisama_PR |
The ideal waifu of every weeb’s fantasies (unless they’re into one of the deres, but wait! She speaks with a keen tongue? Meet Shiina Mahiru (Manaka Iwami), the school angel for Fujimiya Amane (Ban Taito), who also happens to be his neighbour. Our love tale starts when Amane is sick and lends our darling Mahiru his umbrella, thinking he would get it back. But what he receives in exchange much exceeds his expectations! Amane is utterly useless as a person, and his home life is a complete mess, but he has recently found himself a wife in everything but name.
Greetings and welcome to the narrative of The Angel Next Door Spoils Me Rotten, a famous online fiction turned light book series authored by Saeki-san. A manga version of the game is now in its eighth volume of publishing in Square Enix’s Manga Up! Magazine. Given that Studio Project No. 9 is behind this one and their track record in the romcom genre, if this is your cup of tea, I believe it’s okay for your Saturday amusement.
Trigun Stampede | TRIGUN STAMPEDE
| Animation: Orange | Premiere: January 7th, 2023 |
| Genre: Action, Sci-Fi | Airtime (GMT+9): Saturdays at 23:00 |
| Episodes: | Station: TV Tokyo |
| Information Links: AniDB, ANN Encyclopedia, MyAnimeList, Syoboi, Wikipedia (EN), Wikipedia (JP) | |
| Join the conversation @trigun_anime |
Yasuhiro Nightow is the author of the well-known Japanese gun-action manga series TRIGUN. Vash the Stampede (Matsuoka Yoshitsugu), a famed shooter and pacifist with a bounty on his head, is followed on his fated quest. And in 2023, it will be revived as TRIGUN STAMPEDE, a brand-new original anime series.
A massive $60,000,000,000 reward has been placed on the head of Vash the Stampede, a legendary felon. He is referred to as “The Humanoid Typhoon” because of the havoc he leaves in his wake. Vash is really a kind-hearted person who claims to have never killed anybody and avoids violence whenever possible, despite his feared reputation. Two insurance agents, Meryl Stryfe (Ando Sakura) and Milly Thompson, accompany him as he traverses the wasteland of Gunsmoke in an effort to lessen the harm he does. But as they are hunted by a crew of famous assassins, their adventures take a perilous turn. Vash’s background will be made known and his moral compass will be put to the test as they struggle for survival.
What type of crazy antics will Vash get up to this time in the universe of TRIGUN’s new original series? A significant alteration that some viewers may not really like is that this anime is receiving CGI treatment, which makes Vash appear even more like the dashing and spotless lead character. However, based on the show’s promos, it seems to be a very fantastic one with a lot of action that, at least in this day and age, would not have been feasible without the use of CGI. Let’s hope that TRIGUN STAMPEDE is a success!
Saikyou Onmyouji no Isekai Tenseiki | 最強陰陽師の異世界転生記
The Reincarnation of the Strongest Exorcist in Another World
| Animation: Studio Blanc. | Premiere: January 7th, 2023 |
| Genre: Fantasy | Airtime (GMT+9): Saturdays at 23:30 |
| Episodes: 12 | Station: AT-X |
| Information Links: AniDB, ANN Encyclopedia, MyAnimeList, Syoboi, Wikipedia (EN), Wikipedia (JP) | |
| Join the conversation @saikyo_onmyouji |
Haruyoshi, an exorcist and diviner, is known for being the strongest person in the area (Hanamori Yumiri). Or would be if his friends hadn’t abandoned him and left him to die dishonourably. Unfortunately for those companions, Haruyoshi isn’t the kind of person to allow a little death get to him; instead, he uses a covert reincarnation method to successfully launch his soul into an other reality. The exorcist turned magic user wakes up as Seika Lamprogue, the scion of a well-known family of magicians, and believes everything is great now—aside from one little niggle. As the proud family heir, did he inherit all the magic? Nothing to be had. But that’s not an issue since Seika has all the skills necessary to succeed in his new life owing to his real-world employment.
A wonderfully exciting moment to be living, with not one but two anime adaptations this season focusing on reincarnation! Okay, joking aside, Saikyou Onmyouji isn’t exactly going for the major leagues. The classic isekai concept, the promise of OP powers and harem picks aplenty, as well as the customary assortment of slice-of-life moments and fantasy-charged tale, serve as the foundation for this whole situation. It’s true that this isekai features an exorcist instead of the usual introverted video game addict (now that’s surprising), but don’t for a second think that the usual approach will be abandoned. Fun and entertaining don’t always translate to imaginative. There is plenty of potential for a cute little isekai adventure even though Studio Blanc and the production team are nothing special, they are also not problematic. As long as this one can feature above grade, 3DCGI minimised animation and not rush through its story, it has the potential to be a lot of fun. Simply wait and see how the first episodes turn out.
UniteUp! | UniteUp!
| Animation: Clover Works | Premiere: January 7th, 2023 |
| Genre: Music | Airtime (GMT+9): Saturdays at 23:30 |
| Episodes: | Station: TOKYO MX |
| Information Links: AniDB, ANN Encyclopedia, MyAnimeList, Syoboi, Wikipedia (EN), Wikipedia (JP) | |
| Join the conversation @project_uniteup |
The Unite Up! multimedia project was launched by Sony Music Entertainment Japan in December 2021 with the release of four distinct idol groups’ original songs on the project’s official YouTube channel. The next season of the show will provide additional context, character development, and backstory, but its primary purpose is to bring some Jpop Idol drama to the big screen. After posting some of his own songs on a streaming website, the show’s protagonist Kiyose Akira (Kikunosuke Toya) is discovered by the sMiLea Production talent agency. The plot develops as he forms Protostar, an idol group with other recently discovered talents, and prepares for their debut alongside Legit, Jaxx Jaxx, and AneLa, other idol groups represented by the agency.
With lately successful series like Love Live Superstar!! that have been enjoying tremendous success with the genre’s following, Unite Up! will have to contend for attention. Skip Beat! was arguably the last idol series I really adored. It followed an unusual up-and-coming idol and had a distinctive narrative. But lately, these pieces have been made available as a part of a bigger multimedia initiative that brings the faces behind the songs that are published online to screens. It strikes me as a smart strategy for developing crossover possibilities. I find these projects’ evolution to be something I can enjoy. They often begin with Jpop genre music and stunning singer images. Therefore, it always makes sense when the TV programme is announced since it puts the singers and idols who became well-known on streaming platforms to life. If you check at the YouTube material for Unite Up!, you’ll see that it has views over the average of 450K, and some of it has well over a million. Fans of the anime genre and the idol groups included in the project will both have a lot to be thrilled about. The quality of the narrative and the characters themselves must yet be defined. Having said that, the idol genre may undoubtedly provide solace and positive vibes at a time when many of us are dealing with a depressing and gloomy season. So if you want a little brightness to start 2023, this may be the speck of light you need to add to your lineup.
Maou Gakuin no Futekigousha: Shijou Saikyou no Maou no Shiso, Tensei Shite
Shison-tachi no Gakkou e Kayou II | 魔王学院的不适任者～史上最强的魔王始祖，转生就读子孙们的学校～ Ⅱ
The Misfit of Demon King Academy Season 2
| Animation: SILVER LINK. | Premiere: January 7th, 2023 |
| Genre: Fantasy | Airtime (GMT+9): Saturdays at 24:30 |
| Episodes: 12 | Station: TOKYO MX |
| Information Links: AniDB, ANN Encyclopedia, MyAnimeList, Syoboi, Wikipedia (EN), Wikipedia (JP) | |
| Join the conversation @maohgakuin |
Anoth (Umehara Yuuichirou), the Demon King of Tyranny, has defeated humans, spirits, and even gods themselves at various points in time. Anoth can only really scratch one itch, however, thanks to his conquests: boredom. Anoth decides to reincarnate in a later period to discover what the future holds since no one is capable of giving him what he wants. And what it contains is really extremely different. Weak demonic progeny and ageing magic are two things that Anoth is aware of, therefore he enrols at Demon King Academy to fix them. Although Anoth’s unfathomable strength and unknown position make him the social outcast of the school, Misha (Kusunoki Tomori) and Sasha (Natsuyoshi Yuuko), two other students, convince him that his attempt to revitalise the planet isn’t wholly futile. Anoth is now well on his way to recovering his old glory after vanquishing a few adversaries and establishing himself as the Academy’s up and coming genius.
Whatever your opinion on power fantasy, Maou Gakuin demonstrates that there is still a lot of juice left to be squeezed. Due in part to its self awareness and willingness to have Anoth take a backseat and allow the supporting cast take centre stage, this series was a lot of fun to watch in 2020. Insane humour? absurd abilities? humorous, lighthearted shenanigans? Maou Gakuin made use of it all and benefited from it. However, the biggest difference in this sequel is the cast; Umehara Yuuichirou has replaced Suzuki Tatsuhisa as Anoth due to personal indiscretions. Given how wonderfully Tatsuhisa performed with Anoth in the funnier parts, this is an understandably good decision (based on the PV), but it will take some getting used to. The good news is that the rest of the cast and crew will remain, so this power fantasy train shouldn’t derailed as long as Yuuichirou lives up to expectations and this season doesn’t go through its content too rapidly (as the first did sometimes). I really hope so, especially given how much I enjoyed the first season.
Ijiranaide, Nagatoro-san 2nd Attack | イジらないで, 長瀞さん 2nd Attack
Don’t Toy with Me, Miss Nagatoro 2nd Attack
| Animation: OLM | Premiere: January 7th, 2023 |
| Genre: Comedy, Romance, School-Life | Airtime (GMT+9): Saturdays at 25:00 |
| Episodes: 12 | Station: TOKYO MX |
| Information Links: AniDB, ANN Encyclopedia, MyAnimeList, Syoboi, Wikipedia (EN), Wikipedia (JP) | |
| Join the conversation @nagatoro_tv |
As a skilled member of the Art Club, Hachiouji Naoto (Yamashita Daiki) is down on his luck since he feels dissatisfied and unsatisfied with his job. Although his first encounter with Nagatoro Hayase (Uesaka Sumire) was unpleasant in every way, Nagatoro attempts to overcome her insensitivity by learning more about Naoto. Even though his new pals just call him “senpai” or “Paisen,” he begins to see Nagatoro’s tough veneer gradually eroding with time. She starts to consider Naoto as a good influence whose straightforward character is much more refreshing than the showy high school friendships. At the same time, Nagatoro encourages Naoto to have greater confidence in himself as an artist who undervalues himself. Watch as the two admit their developing affections for one another in this second season.
When Nagatoro-san was launched, it came as a very welcome surprise. It first seemed as if it would only take pleasure in the vicious bullying that Nagatoro had accepted in its opening scene. But when she softens around Naoto and starts treating him with care, the plot rapidly turns to giving Nagatoro more dimension. Nagatoro teases Naoto in a cute rom-com before realising that she has grown too attached to the amusing aspects of her taunting. This is why it was satisfying to witness Nagatoro and her friends go from making fun of “Paisen” to really enjoying his company and encouraging him. I kept seeing all these sweet scenes from the manga’s final chapters while I waited for the new season, and they made me eager to see the tone Season 2 will take on now that it will concentrate more on Nagatoro and Naoto’s affections for one another.
Rougo ni Sonaete Isekai de 8-manmai no Kinka o Tamemasu |
老後に備えて異世界で8万枚の金貨を貯めます
Saving 80,000 Gold in Another World for My Retirement
| Animation: Felix Film | Premiere: January 7th, 2023 |
| Genre: Fantasy, Slice of Life | Airtime (GMT+9): Saturdays at 26:00 |
| Episodes: 12 | Station: ABC |
| Information Links: AniDB, ANN Encyclopedia, MyAnimeList, Syoboi, Wikipedia (EN), Wikipedia (JP) | |
| Join the conversation @roukin8_anime |
We all like clumsy females for their attractiveness since, to many people, nothing screams sweetness like a damsel in need. Sadly, Yamano Mitsuha (Nagae Rika) took this principle to heart and fell down a cliff into a conventional fantasy realm as a result. How did it take place? Who knows, but Mitsuha soon discovered after her first encounter with a monster that she can freely travel between Earth and this planet, which was an ability that made her stop and consider. After all, modern life isn’t cheap, therefore Mitsuha should take advantage of every opportunity to get money by engaging in some good ol’ fashioned monster hunting and dungeon raiding. This girl won’t cut corners in any manner when it comes to saving for her retirement.
The next one comes along to demonstrate why it is best to avoid making predictions in this area just as you begin to believe that isekai (and fantasy) have run out of ideas. Although it would be quite simple to dismiss Rougo ni Sonaete as just another speck in the isekai sea, this is undoubtedly one speck that doesn’t take itself too seriously. implausible premise? commits fully. simple personalities and motives? utilises tropes to the most extent possible. It’s essentially isekai junk food, but based on what I’ve read so far (it’s another adaptation of a light novel), it tastes pretty darn good for junk food. It’s safe to assume that things won’t fall apart that easily with Nagae Rika as the lead and the studio that produced Aharen-san wa Hakarenai producing. If the usual adaptation issues are avoided, this one might even end up being rather entertaining overall. Rougo ni Sonaete is undoubtedly one to take into consideration if looking for a crazy and off the wall isekai this winter. The first few episodes will naturally tell the story.
Tokyo Revengers: Seiya Kessen Hen | 東京リベンジャーズ 聖夜決戦編
| Animation: Liden Films | Premiere: January 7th, 2023 |
| Genre: Action, Thriller | Airtime (GMT+9): Saturdays at 26:08 |
| Episodes: 2 cour likely | Station: TV Tokyo |
| Information Links: AniDB, ANN Encyclopedia, MyAnimeList, Syoboi, Wikipedia (EN), Wikipedia (JP) | |
| Join the conversation @anime_toman |
One Hanagaki Takemichi (Shin Yuuki) regarded middle school, when he had all of his friends, respect, and even a girlfriend, as the pinnacle of his life. Now, though, Takemichi is nothing; he is simply another failed statistic that mothers caution their kids from becoming. The situation worsens when the despondent youngster learns that his ex-girlfriend was murdered by the neighbourhood Tokyo Manji gang. This news inspires him to take his own life by train, only to wake up 12 years later at the very time his life began to fall apart. Takemichi is persuaded to choose a new course of action as a result of this revelation and the awareness that he can travel between the past and the present. When given the chance to rescue his ex-girlfriend from Tokyo Manji, Takemichi will take whatever action he can to alter the course of events—and himself.
There is no disputing Tokyo Revengers’ appeal, despite the fact that its debut season ended up being more polarising than anticipated. In its first two episodes back in Spring 2021, this gangster-themed time-travel thriller created some major waves. It drew heavily on shounen tropes and employed a gritty, redemption-focused storyline to produce a rather captivating plot. Recaps and slideshow animation were there, so it wasn’t quite flawless, but you could have done worse, and Tokyo Revengers didn’t blow its chance. I wouldn’t anticipate any major problems arising given that this season seems to be adapting some of the most well-liked series arcs and there are only minor crew changes, but given that this will be a Disney+ exclusive, ehh, we’ll have to see in regards to certain things. Tokyo Revengers may not be the biggest winter blockbuster, but if you’re looking for a classic anime adventure this year, keep an eye on it and, if you haven’t already, give the first season a go.
Kami-tachi ni Hirowareta Otoko 2 | 神達に拾われた男2
By the Grace of the Gods Season 2
| Animation: Maho Film | Premiere: January 8th, 2023 |
| Genre: Fantasy, Slice of Life | Airtime (GMT+9): Sundays at 21:30 |
| Episodes: 12 | Station: TOKYO MX |
| Information Links: AniDB, ANN Encyclopedia, MyAnimeList, Syoboi, Wikipedia (EN), Wikipedia (JP) | |
| Join the conversation @kamihiro_anime |
The story of Takebayashi Ryouma (Tadokoro Azusa), who has returned after more than two years for a second season, is told in Kamihiro. Ryouma was reincarnated into a new world by three gods who were sympathetic to his previous experiences. He discovers a talent and a passion for raising slimes, and he is able to elevate these creatures to the status of veritable panaceas for all ills. Ryouma, a natural loner, is persuaded to visit a neighbouring town after saving a troop of soldiers, and there he finds himself in the care of the ducal family, who forever alter his life. Ryouma is about to find out just how much of the world there is to explore beyond his modest home as a result of town needs, citizen wants, and the bubbly interest of one Eliara (Kuwahara Yuuki) in slime rising to now occupy the hours.
Even while Kamihiro wasn’t exactly a sensation when it debuted back in Fall 2020, it was still a rather good isekai. This film focused heavily on wholesome slice-of-life with feel-good moments while sacrificing wanton action and a serious narrative so that a youngster might save the village and make everyone happy. Is the idea applicable to everyone? Of course not, but for those who like relaxed affairs, it succeeded in what it set out to do. The good news is that everyone on the cast and crew is returning, so a loss in quality shouldn’t be feared. Additionally, there is still enough of material to adapt, including several arcs that are more action-focused. It’s unlikely that Kamihiro’s second round will get much attention, but anybody who enjoyed the first season or is in the mood for some cosy slice-of-life should give it a chance. You won’t be let down, that much is certain.
Nokemono-tachi no Yoru | ノケモノたちの夜
The Tale of the Outcasts
| Animation: Ashi Productions | Premiere: January 8th, 2023 |
| Genre: Drama | Airtime (GMT+9): Sundays at 22:00 |
| Episodes: | Station: TOKYO MX |
| Information Links: AniDB, ANN Encyclopedia, MyAnimeList, Syoboi, Wikipedia (EN), Wikipedia (JP) | |
| Join the conversation @nokemono_anime |
In this version of England, both mortals and immortals exist. However, there are two people who are completely lost and alone in this world. Wisteria (Taketatsu Ayana) is a little girl who is abandoned by society and lives in poverty and orphanage. Marbas, a demon that dwells in the shadows and never quite feels like he belongs anyplace, is played by Konishi Katsuyushi. Young Wisteria and Marbas become unlikely friends after the two of them first meet, and they work together to search for a place in this world where they can live independently by each other’s sides.
The story sounds strikingly similar to what was planned for Mahoutsukai no Yome (The Ancient Magus’ Bride). However, I stopped watching that series since I found the anime version to be less captivating than the manga. The primary distinction between the two series is that this relationship appears to develop between two people who are caught in a limbo and who must work together to carve out a place for themselves in a world that has never truly accepted them. This narrative has a more lyrical quality, and I’ve always like reading about characters that are looking for purpose in their lives. Additionally, the artwork and a few of the PV’s clips depict Wisteria developing magical abilities, which may have contributed to her initial ability to see Marbas. This plot appears to involve some magic, some action, and a lot of emotional ups and downs. You can choose whether or not to watch it, but after reading some reviews and comments from the manga community, I can assure you that I will at the very least give this one a thorough viewing.
Benriya Saitou-san, Isekai ni Iku | 便利屋斎藤さん, 異世界に行く
Handyman Saito in Another World
| Animation: C2C | Premiere: January 8th, 2023 |
| Genre: Adventure, Fantasy | Airtime (GMT+9): Sundays at 22:30 |
| Episodes: 12 | Station: AT-X |
| Information Links: AniDB, ANN Encyclopedia, MyAnimeList, Syoboi, Wikipedia (EN), Wikipedia (JP) | |
| Join the conversation @saitou_anime |
What does it mean to be really needed imply? when you excel at something but aren’t given enough chances to do it, or when others don’t think much of you. Saitou (Kimura Ryouhei), a common handyman, is one day transported to a another planet where he discovers that his abilities are really rather valuable. As a result, he has the chance to discover what it truly means to be needed by others, something he had long desired for in his previous life.
This one is certain to be a little bit different journey into the vast library of other world literature as another instalment of the perennially popular isekai fantasy with just a few formula modifications. Our protagonist is a real, hard-working adult who really wants to succeed in life. However, for whatever reason, he simply isn’t making it, and as a result, he is given the chance to succeed in a different setting. This guy would truly attempt to mend your pipe with sweat and metal while others would just cast a spell, spelling (heh) more intricacies than when you first began. He is neither a NEET or a chuunibyou.
What novel concepts will Saitou bring to the table for his fellow party members as well as the narrative itself? Will Saitou be able to stand alone as a fully realised hero who is both engaging and able to keep the plot moving ahead in an exciting way? There is magic and dungeon exploration to be had, according to the PV, so Saitou may bring their whole RPG expertise to the table. We can only hope that this project succeeds and proves to be as fascinating as it sounds.
The Legend of Heroes: Sen no Kiseki – Northern War | The Legend of Heroes
閃の軌跡 Northern War
| Animation: Tatsunoko Production | Premiere January 8th, 2023 |
| Genre: Action, Drama, Fantasy | Airtime (GMT+9): Sundays at 23:30 |
| Episodes: | Station: TOKYO MX |
| Information Links: AniDB, ANN Encyclopedia, MyAnimeList, Syoboi, Wikipedia (EN), Wikipedia (JP) | |
| Join the conversation @sen_animejp |
The Principality of North Ambria was left in terrible difficulties as a result of the “North Ambrian Disaster” in the year 1178 of the Septian calendar and the subsequent destruction of its capital. Due to the hard environment and the economic crises, many locals turned into mercenaries known as Jaegers. These individuals ultimately merged to become the “Northern Jaegers,” the greatest mercenary organisation on the continent. It is currently the year 1205. North Ambria is being held accountable for the actions of its Jaegers, who supported the losing side and burnt down the market town of Celtic on their orders during the neighbouring Erebonian civil war. The Northern Jaegers seize control of parliament and break off diplomatic connections, which kickstarts the discussions that would later become known as the Northern War. Eiyuu Densetsu: Sen no Kiseki – Northern War, a Tatsunoko Production production, will recount the events of the war through the viewpoint of Lavian Windslet, a Northern Jaeger (Koichi Makoto). She is sent to infiltrate Erebonia with other members of her organisation in order to gather information about Rean Schwarzer (Uchiyama Kouki), the “Empire’s Hero” and perhaps the biggest danger to North Ambria’s ongoing independence.
If you’re not acquainted with Nihon Falcom’s Legend of Heroes, it’s a huge JRPG franchise that spans over a dozen titles and features heroes from different countries across the whole continent of Zemuria. It goes without saying that any adaptation of the franchise has its work cut out for it, but given that this series’ events take place between games (Trails of Cold Steel II and III, respectively), it may face more challenges than most because unfamiliar viewers may become lost in the beginning if certain concepts aren’t properly introduced. The Northern War isn’t discussed too much in the video games, so there is some creative latitude in how they approach the subject. Having a different viewpoint (instead of Rean’s perspective from the games) may help make the adaption simpler. By simply stating that the conflict began as a result of the Northern Jaegers’ participation in Erebonia’s civil war and proceeding from there, they could avoid most of the exposition and move on quickly. The way they put everything together will ultimately decide how enjoyable this series is since there’s a tight line between making it accessible and losing too much of the small print. Fans of the series will undoubtedly enjoy Eiyuu Densetsu: Sen no Kiseki – Northern War, but it’s less clear what viewers who haven’t played the games will get out of the series.
Kyokou Suiri Season 2 | 虚構推理 Season 2
In/Spectre Season 2
| Animation: Brain`s Base | Premiere: January 8th, 2023 |
| Genre: Mystery, Supernatural | Airtime (GMT+9): Sundays at 25:05 |
| Episodes: 12 | Station: TOKYO MX |
| Information Links: AniDB, ANN Encyclopedia, MyAnimeList, Syoboi, Wikipedia (EN), Wikipedia (JP) | |
| Join the conversation @kyokou_suiri |
“Horatio, there are more things in heaven and on Earth than you could ever imagine in your philosophy.” The worlds of the supernatural and the natural coexist as opposite sides of the same coin. Unfathomable things always happen when two universes intersect. The mediator between these two realms is Kotoko Iwanaga (Kitou Akari), the Goddess of Wisdom, who has the capacity to communicate with supernatural entities. Together, she and her hesitant lover Sakuragawa Kurou (Miyano Mamoru), who has the ability to live forever, solve mysteries and bring about harmony between the supernatural and human worlds.
There were both good and low moments throughout the inaugural season. On the flip side, Iwanaga herself came off as being too aggressive, and it started to become unnecessarily explanatory in the middle. Given that it is based on a light book, the lengthy introduction is understandable. The mysterious mythology, ghosts, and mystery in the current era—things that have always fascinated me—were what kept me watching. If you’ve read the manga, the second season should follow up in terms of content quality, albeit whether or not that is excellent depends on the viewer. The fact that the personnel from the previous season has been carried over is unquestionably positive since it ensures stability on that front. The second season of Kyokou Suiri is the only one you need to watch if you’re looking for a supernatural detective to finish your season watchlist.
Mou Ippon! | もういっぽん!
Ippon Again!
| Animation: Bakken Record | Premiere: January 8th, 2023 |
| Genre: School Life, Sports | Airtime (GMT+9): Sundays at 25:35 |
| Episodes: 12 | Station: TV Tokyo |
| Information Links: AniDB, ANN Encyclopedia, MyAnimeList, Syoboi, Wikipedia (EN), Wikipedia (JP) | |
| Join the conversation @IpponAgain_pr |
Mou Ippon is based on the manga of the same name and features the, shall we say, physical conflict between Sonoda Michi (Itou Asaya) and Takigawa Sanae (Anzai Yukari). Michi and Sanae, who were stars of their middle school judo team, finished their time in middle school with a final judo competition to cap off their fun. Now in high school, the two judo enthusiasts are drawn to the judo squad at their new school, but this leads to an intriguing situation. As it turns out, Michi’s last middle school judo opponent goes to the same institution as them and aspires to make the squad there as well. The issue is that the team in question is nearing the end, so if Michi and Sanae want to pursue their love, they will need to roll up their sleeves, assist some old rivals (and be helped by them), and do whatever it takes to keep their judo ambitions alive.
Charming ladies doing cute things is the stuff of classic anime, so it should be clear what Mou Ippon is all about. With the exception of the judo theme—which is actually a sport uncommon for this genre—exactly it’s what you’d expect from this kind of programme, with a struggling school club and personal hobbies serving as the catalyst for a lot of adorable moments, inner battles, and good growth. If expectations are managed, both sports and slice of life fans should find much to like in Mou Ippon, which is allegedly more focused on school life than sports (at least from the bits I’ve read). This is particularly true if its very outstanding manga art transfers well into anime form. Even while Mou Ippon may not be the most distinctive of winter’s numerous laid-back choices, I nevertheless advise anybody looking for something sweet and healthful to have it handy.
High Card | HIGH CARD
| Animation: Studio Hibari | Premiere: January 9th, 2023 |
| Genre: Action, Supernatural | Airtime (GMT+9): Mondays at 20:00 |
| Episodes: 12 | Station: AT-X |
| Information Links: AniDB, ANN Encyclopedia, MyAnimeList, Syoboi, Wikipedia (EN), Wikipedia (JP) | |
| Join the conversation @highcard_pj |
A cheeky, adventurous child named Finn Oldman (Satou Gen) learns that his orphanage is in danger of becoming bankrupt. Finn, who is now free to live on the streets, uses his steely nerves to his advantage at the casino in an effort to win big. He had no idea that a man’s “lucky” card would lead to a violent firefight in which he would get involved. He would ultimately learn that a deck of 52 X-playing cards, which give individuals extraordinary powers by tapping into a secret “buddy” inside oneself, govern the global order. Due to these cards, a clandestine organisation known as “High Card” has been charged with collecting cards strewn over the kingdom while pretending to be the luxury vehicle manufacturer Pinochle. Finn ends up being invited to join the organisation as its fifth member since he and his new buddies are entrusted with obtaining these cards. They will encounter competing automakers, Mafia families, and other card-obsessed players driven by the thrill of the chase along the way. The guiding principle of HIGH CARD is “All you need in life are manners, dignity, and the resolve to wager on your own life” as it explores Finn and High Card’s quest to find the X-playing cards.
The first thing you’ll notice in HIGH CARD is how the setting is ideal for the primarily well-to-do male cast. Clean-cut gentlemen’s swanky high-class look is combined with a fondness of Western-inspired fantasy worlds. It’s incredibly stylish and modern, but it also has some backstory about magic and kingdoms, making it a fairly amazing anime for the present day. It’s the type of programme designed to get you excited about the potential for café crossovers and which character may be the inspiration for a pancake or berry soda float based on how they appear. That’s not to suggest the tale itself won’t be worthwhile; the action scenes seem highly polished, and you can always count on exciting battle scenes when guys in suits fling magic at one other. You can at least count on it having a clear sense of direction since its card-collecting theme also has a larger objective. When HIGH CARD reveals its fortunate hand this Winter, we’ll know for sure.
Kyuuketsuki Sugu Shinu 2 | 吸血鬼すぐ死ぬ2
The Vampire Dies in No Time 2nd Season
| Animation: Madhouse | Premiere: January 9th, 2023 |
| Genre: Comedy, Supernatural | Airtime (GMT+9): Mondays at 23:00 |
| Episodes: 12 | Station: TOKYO MX |
| Information Links: AniDB, ANN Encyclopedia, MyAnimeList, Syoboi, Wikipedia (EN), Wikipedia (JP) | |
| Join the conversation @johnwakawaii |
Ronald (Furukawa Makoto), a vampire hunter, should have little trouble defeating this particular vampire, but sadly, the task at Draluc’s house to find a missing kid was an accident. A local youngster who wanted first dibs on Draluc’s video game collection while he was sleeping ended up becoming the “kidnapped” child. The fact that Ronald’s rescue expedition ends with the destruction of Draluc’s castle and forces the vampire to live with the man who did so is not helpful. In exchange, Ronald asks Draluc to join his squad in their battle against the aggressive editor of Ronald’s magazine, other vampires, and lesser vampires.
One of my biggest regrets is that after viewing the first few episodes of Kyuuketsuki Sugu Shinu, I couldn’t remember the whole first season. When it first aired last Fall, it was a fantastic animation that made for the ideal comedy to watch on Halloween. The absurdity of Ronald’s behaviour as he tries to put up with Draluc’s quirks and poor pain tolerance was funny to see. When it first aired, it was a sleeper smash, and perhaps it will still be charming and unexpected when Kyuuketsuki Sugu Shinu returns for the winter season.
Mononogatari | もののがたり
| Animation: BN Pictures | Premiere: January 9th, 2023 |
| Genre: Slice of Life, Supernatural | Airtime (GMT+9): Mondays at 24:00 |
| Episodes: 12 | Station: TOKYO MX |
| Information Links: AniDB, ANN Encyclopedia, MyAnimeList, Syoboi, Wikipedia (EN), Wikipedia (JP) | |
| Join the conversation @mononogatari_pr |
Whatever term is given to the ethereal, they have the ability to take possession of things in order to take physical shape. The Saenomi clan aids in maintaining control over these visible spirits, known as tsukumogami, which may be friendly or aggressive and are sent back to the spirit realm when detected. One such Saenomi member is Hyouma Kunato (Ootsuka Takeo), a brazen young man with a short fuse thanks to a tsukumogami who stole him before. Kunato’s fiery tendencies while dealing with tsukumogamis have resulted in significant collateral damage, to the point that his grandpa sends him to live with Nagatsuki Botan (Takada Yuuki) to get rid of his rage—a lady who, surprise, lives with a tsukumogami as family. Can Kunato, when compelled to be cordial with a ghost, ultimately learn to control his impulses? Even the ghosts themselves cannot provide an explanation to it.
Mononogatari is humorous at first appearance, and not only because of its name, which will undoubtedly deceive some people. This one resembles many other recent supernatural television shows that have a similar style, feel, and plot, such as Bungou Stray Dogs, Jututsu Kaisen, and especially Kyokou Suiri. Basically, combine your standard unearthly setting with a narrative that is focused on the characters, sprinkle in some magic, and, well, you get the picture. Although the original manga isn’t particularly stunning, based on the chapters I’ve read, it’s very excellent for what it does. With over 14 volumes published thus far, the plot also has enough of material for adaptation. Add a somewhat respectable cast and staff to the mix (even if Bandai Namco isn’t exactly a stellar studio), and I’d be willing to be optimistic about this one. Mononogatari may not be the season’s greatest draw, but if you’re looking for some paranormal entertainment, keep it in mind.
Vinland Saga Season 2 | ヴィンランド・サガ SEASON2
| Animation: MAPPA | Premiere: January 9th, 2023 |
| Genre: Historical | Airtime (GMT+9): Mondays at 24:30 |
| Episodes: | Station: TOKYO MX |
| Information Links: AniDB, ANN Encyclopedia, MyAnimeList, Syoboi, Wikipedia (EN), Wikipedia (JP) | |
| Join the conversation @V_SAGA_ANIME |
After a three-year absence, the Norse saga will return to television screens in January. Fans of this long-awaited series rejoiced when it was revealed earlier in 2022 that Season 2 will be published in January. If you haven’t been to the promised land of Vinland yet, I implore you to go so in order to get a taste of what’s to come by watching the first season. I was drawn into Thorfinn’s narrative in both literature and film, as many other admirers were. The first season (War Arc) follows the development of Thorfinn, a small child who, due to tragedy, is placed in the care of Askeladd, a half-Welsh, half-Danish captain who is in charge of a group of Vikings during the Danish invasion of England. Through sheer willpower and simmering resentment, Thorfinn develops into a proficient assassin, which Askeladd utilises to further his own influence and victory throughout the battle. However, the Slave Arc (also known as Farmland), in which Thorfinn is sold into slavery when his plan for vengeance is foiled, will be covered in this new season.
The spectators’ reaction to this new season will be distinctive. Though a political narrative will be developing in the background, the focus is much more on the character development of Thorfinn (Uemura Yuuto) and his relationship with his new buddy Einar (Takeuchi Shunsuke). Because of the two men’s glaring differences, the series will be revitalised for many viewers and go in a new path. It is abundantly evident from the teaser that this season will place more of a focus on developing the plot than on battles and action. Speaking of trailers, this season’s animation will be handled by MAPPA, although the same crew is working on the project with Yabuta Shuhei, the show’s recurring director. Be ready for a long and steady burn, which the filmmaker and his crew have worked very hard to bring to life for the audience. This is certainly one not to miss in the forthcoming season, in my opinion. Although it won’t be as action-packed, I am certain it will have the same impact as the first season and leave us wanting more just as it did at the beginning.
Ayakashi Triangle | あやかしトライアングル
| Animation: Connect | Premiere: January 9th, 2023 |
| Genre: Romance, Supernatural | Airtime (GMT+9): Mondays at 25:00 |
| Episodes: 12 | Station: Tochigi TV |
| Information Links: AniDB, ANN Encyclopedia, MyAnimeList, Syoboi, Wikipedia (EN), Wikipedia (JP) | |
| Join the conversation @ayakashi_anime |
Childhood friends Kanade Suzu (Ichinose Kana) and Kazamaki Matsuri (Chiba Shouya, who also appeared in the critically acclaimed 86 as Nouzen Shinei) have the same capacity to see, exorcise, and communicate with ayakashi, or youkai. But when they go into high school, their relationship begins to suffer as a result of their divergent perspectives on ayakashi: Suzu, a medium, thinks they should be treated with love and compassion, while Matsuri thinks they should all be exterminated. So far, the narrative seems typical for this kind of anime. The problem? Matsuri transforms into a woman after seeing an unassuming cat named Ayakashi (who is really an overpowering 400-year-old ghost)! Suzu’s greatest nightmare, perhaps? How can she deal with her sexual impulses for her childhood best friend now that he is a curvaceous she-beauty?
Ayakashi Triangle is a Shounen Jump+ serial that combines romcom, ecchi, slice-of-life elements, gender bending, and Japanese mythology. It is now on its eleventh tankobon volume. Written and drawn by Yabuki Kentaro, who is best known for his Black Cat series and for his work on To Love Ru, this endearing love story will warm your heart this winter.
Eiyuu Ou, Bu o Kiwameru Tame Tenseisu: Soshite, Sekai Saikyou no Minarai
Kishi | 英雄王, 武を極めるため転生す ~そして, 世界最強の見習い騎士
The King of Heroes Reincarnates to Polish His Skill to the Limit and Becomes the Strongest Knight in Training in the World
| Animation: Studio Comet | Premiere: January 9th, 2023 |
| Genre: Fantasy | Airtime (GMT+9): Mondays at 25:45 |
| Episodes: 12 | Station: TV Tokyo |
| Information Links: AniDB, ANN Encyclopedia, MyAnimeList, Syoboi, Wikipedia (EN), Wikipedia (JP) | |
| Join the conversation @auo_anime |
The life of the elderly Hero-King Inglis (Kitou Akari) has been wonderful. Inglis may claim to have accomplished everything after building an empire from scratch and giving its people enormous riches and pleasure, but there is one minor item he was unable to get before dying. You see, Inglis’ unmet goal was to live a warrior’s life free from the restrictions of government and to depend entirely on his swordsmanship. It’s a vivid enough dream to delight his patron goddess Alisitia, who decides to send Inglis’ spirit into the future and bring him back to life. as a female Inglis, who is now the daughter of a small noble family, must overcome discrimination, a talent gap, and—as she abruptly discovers after turning six—her alleged ineligibility for a knighthood. Small potatoes for Inglis, however; with a history of successes and a burning desire to succeed, she is one girl who won’t let anything stand in the way of her goals.
You can probably imagine how Reborn to Master the Blade will come out given that resurrection seems to be a popular fantasy theme right now. With the exception of the gender-bending element at play, this is essentially the CGDCT adaptation of Maou Gakuin, where the desire to resurrect demonic dominance has been replaced with more virtuous goals of honour and chivalry. If you prefer, Youjo Senki may be what it would be if it favoured adorable swords over psychotic firearms. It’s based on a light novel series, so I wouldn’t expect an adaptation masterclass. However, if the usual anchors of source material chopping and rushing are kept in check, there’s nothing stopping it from being a fun little show. Studio Comet has a fairly unassuming staff on board, even with artist-turned-Hololive vtuber Nagu serving as character designer. Time will tell, but any fantasy player should at the very least keep a watch on what this player does this season.
Kubo-san wa Boku o Yurusanai | 久保さんは僕を許さない
| Animation: Pine Jam | Premiere: January 10th, 2023 |
| Genre: Romance, Comedy | Airtime (GMT+9): Tuesdays at 21:30 |
| Episodes: 12 | Station: AT-X |
| Information Links: AniDB, ANN Encyclopedia, MyAnimeList, Syoboi, Wikipedia (EN), Wikipedia (JP) | |
| Join the conversation @kubosan_anime |
Winter 2023 Preview. Since I’ve been doing these previews, this is without a doubt the widest expectation gap between my #1 series, Vinland Saga, and the #2. Furthermore, I believe that this is one of my all-time poorest (and maybe smallest) mid-tier series blocks. But it is what it is, and Kubo-san wa Mob wo Yurusanai has more than a passing fascination for me. The manga seems to be quite well-regarded, it’s a rom-com without any light novel participation, and although the director is relatively unknown, Pine Jam is usually a fascinating and ambitious company.
This idea seems like a mishmash of popular romcom tropes—a high school kid who is very anonymous and the girl who won’t ignore him but enjoys teasing him. And a pothole-filled one at that. But according to the common view, it’s not too cruel (I’ll decide that for myself) and offers at least some fresh insight on the clichés it uses. This series wouldn’t rank among the best series in most seasons, but Winter 2023 is certainly an exception.
The crew roster doesn’t immediately stand out, but Pine Jam is known as a “artists commune” studio, even though there have sometimes been issues with production chaos. I have reasonable hopes for Kubo-san since the trailers seem promising and the general sentiment toward the manga is favourable. It would better be excellent considering how the rest of the schedule seems to be.
Tondemo Skill de Isekai Hourou Meshi | とんでもスキルで異世界放浪メシ
| Animation: MAPPA | Premiere: January 10th, 2023 |
| Genre: Fantasy | Airtime (GMT+9): Tuesdays at 24:00 |
| Episodes: 12 | Station: TV Tokyo |
| Information Links: AniDB, ANN Encyclopedia, MyAnimeList, Syoboi, Wikipedia (EN), Wikipedia (JP) | |
| Join the conversation @tonsuki_anime |
A 27-year-old man named Mukouda Tsuyoshi (Uchida Yuuma) and three other heroes are sent to a fantasy land to protect a kingdom from an unknown menace. The fact that Tsuyoshi was accidentally summoned and that his main skill is the ability to access a supermarket interface where he may buy and get foods from contemporary Japan is rapidly made clear.
Tsuyoshi leaves the palace and embarks on a solo journey in the new world after being expelled. The mythical wolf Fenrir notices him because of his talent for cooking delectable foods that are unheard of in this realm. Tsuyoshi’s food leaves Fenrir so pleased that the beast signs a contract with him and becomes his familiar.
With Fenrir at his side, Tsuyoshi embarks on an adventure as a merchant and chef, travelling and preparing delectable dishes that astound the people of this realm. You already know what this one is going to do, in my opinion.
Itai no wa Iya nano de Bougyoryoku ni Kyokufuri Shitai to Omoimasu. 2 |
痛いのは嫌なので防御力に極振りしたいと思います. 2
| Animation: Silver Link | Premiere: January 11th, 2023 |
| Genre: Fantasy, Comedy | Airtime (GMT+9): Wednesdays at 23:30 |
| Episodes: 12 | Station: AT-X |
| Information Links: AniDB, ANN Encyclopedia, MyAnimeList, Syoboi, Wikipedia (EN), Wikipedia (JP) | |
| Join the conversation @bofuri_anime |
Kaede Honjou (Hondo Kaede) is unsure of her ability to play an online game when she is requested to participate in “New World Online,” a VRMMO. Because she is afraid of pain, she invests all of her stat points on vitality like her video game character Maple. In any other RPG, however, this would be impossible, but Maple’s build is well suited to Kaede’s playstyle since her stats provide her access to powerful talents for defence, immunity, and counterattacking. Maple is openly embraced by her friends and allies, who see her as a bright, skilled, and enjoyable individual to work with—even if her presence ultimately breaks the game and propels her ridiculously far in server-wide events. Season 2 will continue Maple’s narrative as she works to develop her skills and discover a tonne of new ones.
Bofuri was an entertaining virtual isekai anime that combined the charm of a slice-of-life with the action-packed thrill of a seasonal fantasy anime. It turned out to be really humorous as Maple used poison, consume, and protection to achieve a seemingly impossible triumph. The fact that it aired in the brief window of 2020, when conditions were still mostly normal, makes me nostalgic for life before the epidemic. It was also a happy, jovial experience that didn’t seem like it needed to be burdened by any of the desire fulfilment that is often present in fantasy anime. Watching Maple continuously advance as she becomes more used to enjoying a carefree in-game experience and learns to put misery behind her was soothing. I’m interested in finding out whether Bofuri: Season 2 is able to convey the same carefree emotions as the first episode did.
Ooyuki Umi no Kaina | 大雪海のカイナ
| Animation: Polygon Pictures | Premiere: January 11th, 2023 |
| Genre: Fantasy | Airtime (GMT+9): Wednesdays at 24:55 |
| Episodes: 12 | Station: Fuji TV |
| Information Links: AniDB, ANN Encyclopedia, MyAnimeList, Syoboi, Wikipedia (EN), Wikipedia (JP) | |
| Join the conversation @ooyukiumi_kaina |
a planet covered in an ocean of snow that never ends and keeps expanding. The inhabitants scrape by, either up in the canopy that covers the sky or gathered around the roots of the gigantic trees that dot the land. A fortuitous encounter between Liliha (Takahashi Rie), a young lady from the surface, and Kaina (Hosoya Yoshimasa), a youngster from the canopy, starts a series of events that will alter the course of human history.
Personally, I’m quite pumped about this one, especially because Polygon Pictures and Blame! founder Tsutomu Nihei are working together to create an unique production. Yes, the majority, if not the whole, of the programme will be created by computer graphics, but it won’t stop me from watching it since Polygon’s animation isn’t exactly startling, it has the proper amount of anime-inspired energy, and there are plenty other shows with worse animation. This one has my full trust since I think the plot will be well-written and entertaining to watch. I find the synopsis to be fairly intriguing as well. Although it may not be a futuristic megastructure in space, there are still many unanswered questions. I am extremely interested to see how this narrative develops.
JoJo no Kimyou na Bouken: Stone Ocean (Part 3) | ジョジョの奇妙な冒険 ストーンオーシャン
| Animation: David Production | Premiere: January 12, 2023 |
| Genre: Action, Adventure | Airtime (GMT+9): Web Release |
| Episodes: 14 | Station: Netflix |
| Information Links: AniDB, ANN Encyclopedia, MyAnimeList, Syoboi, Wikipedia (EN), Wikipedia (JP) |
When Cujoh Jolyne (Fairouz Ai) finds all the supplies required to revive her father Jotaro (Ono Daisuke), she receives a glimmer of hope. She has more motivation to remain in Green Dolphin Street Prison because of the trauma she has experienced and the threat to her life she has faced as a result of Enrico Pucci’s (Seki Tomokazu) repeated attempts to kill her. She was able to learn that Pucci intends to further his stance in order to realise DIO’s ascension to paradise. Jolyne hopes to prevent Pucci from endangering the delicate balance of the universe by creating a new planet in the likeness of DIO with the aid of the friends she has met in jail.
It’s difficult to comprehend why Netflix didn’t explicitly state that the additional episodes of Stone Ocean will run soon following the publication of Part 2. It was previously unclear if Part 3 would use the same one-year production timeframe as Part 2. Soon after the second season’s premiere, jokes about Part 3 airing near the end of 2023 had already been firmly established. However, it does imply that when Part 3 is out, I will be much more excited since it was a welcome surprise to learn that Stone Ocean would be winding up before 2023. The fact that Part 3 has more crazy battles and opponent positions helps. It ultimately serves as a testimony to Jolyne’s coolness and the reason she is regarded as one of the finest JoJos. I’d be more than interested to see how the last few episodes are produced and how they manage to depict some of the more bizarre conflicts that take place during this part of Stone Ocean.
D4DJ All Mix | D4DJ All Mix
| Animation: Sanzigen | Premiere: January 13th, 2023 |
| Genre: Music | Airtime (GMT+9): Fridays at 23:00 |
| Episodes: 12 | Station: TOKYO MX |
| Information Links: AniDB, ANN Encyclopedia, MyAnimeList, Syoboi, Wikipedia (EN), Wikipedia (JP) | |
| Join the conversation @D4DJ_pj |
After living abroad in Africa, Rinku Aimoto (Nishio Yuuka) enrols at Yoba Academy, a school where DJ units are popular. She meets Maho Akashi (Kagami Karin) there, who instructs her in DJing. They see Yoba’s well-known DJ group Peaky P-key perform, and it gives them the idea to start their own group. Rei Togetsu (Irie Maiko), a shy pianist, and Muni Oonaruto (Mimura Haruka), a talented artist from their shared youth, join Rinku and Maho’s group. The friends, who go by the moniker Happy Around, want to use their individual skills to rise to the top of the DJ scene in the nation.
Overall, D4DJ is a cute show about cute girls doing cute things, but it also has an interesting DJ Hardstyle component. The fun is further increased by the fact that each group in this universe creates its own songs, which are then performed live. The majority of the songs’ beats are EDM, which is sure to surprise some people and make others happy. Actually, I have to admit that I became seriously addicted to the mobile game at some point and played it for a few months. It was more than enjoyable.
The animation in the anime is fluid enough to allow the characters to be expressive without feeling stiff or out of place, despite the fact that it was created by the same people who created shows with a tonne of CGI, such as Black Rock Shooter, Terra Formers, and Aoki Hagane no Arpeggio: Ars Nova. D4DJ: All Mix will undoubtedly continue the previous season’s trend and be entirely computer generated, but don’t let that stop you from enjoying the show. In any case, I still do!
Shin Shinka no Mi: Shiranai Uchi ni Kachigumi Jinsei |
真・進化の実~知らないうちに勝ち組人生~
| Animation: Hotline | Premiere: January 13th, 2023 |
| Genre: Comedy, Fantasy | Airtime (GMT+9): Fridays at 25:23 |
| Episodes: 12 | Station: TV Tokyo |
| Information Links: AniDB, ANN Encyclopedia, MyAnimeList, Syoboi, Wikipedia (EN), Wikipedia (JP) | |
| Join the conversation @shinkanomianime |
A kid named Hiiragi Seiichi (Shimono Hiro) is so openly despised and repugnant that they will always be alone. That is, until a digital god teleports him, his whole school, and everyone in it to an other reality where everyone gets fun RPG benefits. Hiiragi is first thrilled to have a more appealing look since it would make it easier for him to gain amorous attention from women. He is shocked to learn that the first woman to fall madly in love with him is a gorilla! Pink gorilla Saria (Hanazawa Kana) hopes to fall in love with Hiiragi as he embarks on his epic isekai journey to become his strongest and best self. But if his new partner is a gorilla, how can he begin on his path to self-fulfillment!? The solution to this puzzle lies in the “Fruit of Evolution,” which gives Saria the capacity to actually change into a human form, making Hiiragi’s pursuit of her somewhat more tolerable. As they make their way toward a brighter future together, they encounter new challenges, allies, and opponents in Season 2.
I’m in disbelief. Shin Shinka no Mi received harsh criticism when it was first released for being a cheap, nasty affront to the concept of humour. The entire thing was designed to look as though it was a slap in the face intended to make fun of the audience for sticking around long enough to see if anything worthwhile would appear. It would be difficult for me to find someone who believed that this programme deserved a second season. I suppose it could be cathartic to watch another season of this if this one demonstrates a self-assured Hiiragi who further dunks on the bullies at school. If you enjoyed the first season as a guilty pleasure, you might enjoy the second season even more. You can be sure that the second season of Shin Shinka no Mi will be an acquired taste that may not be suitable for consumption, but in a funny way. Shin Shinka no Mi ensures that it will remain anime’s detergent pod—dangerous to swallow but too brilliant and colourful not to want to offer a hearty chew. Some seasonal anime make the claim to be a full course meal or a delightful aperitif.
Hikari no Ou | 火狩りの王
The Firecatcher Lord
| Animation: Signal MD | Premiere: January 14th, 2023 |
| Genre: Fantasy | Airtime (GMT+9): Saturdays at 22:30 |
| Episodes: | Station: WOWOW |
| Information Links: AniDB, ANN Encyclopedia, MyAnimeList, Syoboi, Wikipedia (EN), Wikipedia (JP) | |
| Join the conversation @Hikarino_Ou |
After the effects of the Last War, when biological weapons leave people vulnerable to fire, fire, once one of humankind’s greatest creations, becomes one of its deadliest adversaries. People suddenly ignite when near even little flames, and the only fuel available is Flame Spirits, who dwell in a perilous forest. The only survivors are the Firecatchers, who do exactly what their name implies—catch these flamelings. There are rumours that “The King of Fire Hunters,” a selected individual, will seize a “Wandering Spark” comet. How will the meeting of an orphaned city lad named Koushi (Ishige Shouya) and a rural girl named Toko (Kuno Misaki) change the course of history as the tales spread?
The promotional video gave me Ghibli-like sensations since it hinted at a planet that had seen man-made catastrophe, a fantasy forest, and spirit abilities. A few movies from the renowned company, like Spirited Away and the Secret World of Arrietty (among others), have a relationship to Studio Ghibli that goes beyond mood. Chief animation director/character designer Saitou Takuya created the core animation for Kaguya-hime no Monogatari. I would suggest entering the world of Hikari no Ou if you’re a fan of Ghibli or just like a fantastic fantasy.
Majutsushi Orphen Hagure Tabi: Urbanrama Hen | 魔術士オーフェンはぐれ旅 アーバンラマ編
| Animation: Studio Deen | Premiere: January 18th, 2023 |
| Genre: Adventure, Fantasy | Airtime (GMT+9): Wednesdays at 20:30 |
| Episodes: 12 | Station: AT-X |
| Information Links: AniDB, ANN Encyclopedia, MyAnimeList, Syoboi, Wikipedia (EN), Wikipedia (JP) | |
| Join the conversation @orphen25_tv |
Krylancelo Finrandi, a prodigy in sorcery who left the elite university Tower of Fangs to go on a voyage to free his foster sister Azalie Cait-Sith (Hikasa Yoko) from being imprisoned in a dragon form, goes by the name Orphen (Morikubo Shoutarou). He travelled to the busy city of Totokanta as Orphen to reinvent himself as a sorcerer-for-hire. Orphen would soon meet up with Azalie in this city, where he had been procrastinating on his mission, just as he was becoming acquainted with some of the inhabitants. He has Azalie in his sights and is out to free her from her curse and find out what the Sword of Baldanders is hiding.
It’s good to see that the Orphen anime series is still continuing strong, but I’m not sure what parts newcomers Ed (Ono Daisuke) and Lottecia (Aoki Shiki) play in the story. Content from other series often struggle to capture the nostalgic early 2000s sense of the show’s old-school anime appeal. From its initial light novels to a number of manga, anime, and video games, the Orphen brand has crossed many media, but its most recent remake has the potential to adapt the whole light book series. That alone is a compelling incentive to follow Orphen through to the conclusion, but if you’re interested in seeing a whimsical peek of a 90s fantasy adventure, you may want to watch the first two seasons to be ready for Urbanrama-hen.
NieR:Automata Ver1.1a | 尼尔：自动人形 Ver1.1a
| Animation: A-1 Pictures | Premiere: January 2023 |
| Genre: Sci-Fi | Airtime (GMT+9): |
| Episodes: | Station: |
| Information Links: AniDB, ANN Encyclopedia, MyAnimeList, Syoboi, Wikipedia (EN), Wikipedia (JP) | |
| Join the conversation @NieR_A_ANIME |
NieR: Automata, an action-RPG published by Square Enix and PlatinumGames in 2017, is being adapted by A-1 Pictures. The original game is set in a far-off future when humans have been forced to seek safety on the Moon because of invaders. The Council of Humanity sends out YoRHA, an elite army of androids entrusted with battling the invaders and their mechanical constructions, in an effort to retake Earth. The android protagonists of the narrative, 2B (Ishikawa Yui) and 9S (Hanae Natsuki), are sent forth from the “Bunker,” an orbiting base situated around the Earth. The two androids encounter a deserter called A2 while the battle between machine and android rages on, and the three are then taken along a route that exposes a “long lost truth” about the universe. Evangelion 3.0, Gurren Lagann, and Kimi no Todoke’s Key Animation and Episode Director Masuyama Ryouji will direct the adaptation, which will deviate somewhat from the game (according to Yoko Taro’s own statements made during Aniplex Online Fest).
Given its enormous popularity, it’s amazing that NieR: Automata hasn’t had an adaptation sooner. The first thing Yoko Taro says about the adaptation, however, is how he wants to alter the story for the anime, so any hopes are instantly dashed. The main plot will probably be similar to the first game.
But there will undoubtedly be substantial modifications that will cause spectators to contrast the two and debate which one was ultimately the superior experience. As someone who adored the original game, I’d like to say that the series is a must-watch just to see what Yoko Taro does with this adaptation (and for those unfamiliar with the franchise to see what the NieR: Automata hype is all about). However, there will likely be strong feelings either way about this adaptation and the franchise as a whole. The strange setting, almost whimsical happenings, and remarkable characters are likely to appeal to many viewers, but other people will undoubtedly end up abhorring the show with a fiery passion.
Short Series List
Technical Note:
Short one-hour shows that are being shown with erratic length periods (less than 24 minutes every episode) have been split from the main preview and placed in their own section as with the Winter 2016 Preview forward. This is done to accommodate for the rise in the number of short series and to make watching easier for individuals who like one kind of series over another. Though the list ought to be full, there are a few short series that have been announced just before the start of a season, thus they may not have been included. Passersby are erratic like that; shorts may or may not include a haikyuu summary.
| Air Date | Title |
|---|---|
| 01/06 | Nijiyon Animation | にじよんあにめーしょん https://www.lovelive-anime.jp/nijigasaki/niji4anime.php AniDB, ANN Encyclopedia, MyAnimeList, Wikipedia (JP) |
| 10/08 | KJ File (Zoku-hen) | KJファイル https://www.tv-tokyo.co.jp/anime/kjfile/ ANN Encyclopedia, MyAnimeList |
| 10/17 | FLAGLIA: Natsuyasumi no Monogatari | FLAGLIA~なつやすみの物語~ https://www.flaglia.com/animation/ AniDB, ANN Encyclopedia, MyAnimeList, Wikipedia (EN) |
OVA / Movie
Technical Note:
OVAs are arranged according to the date of release. Please see the Notes column for additional dates for shows with numerous episodes releasing during the season. On each OVA’s own webpages, you may find more details, sometimes even with promotional videos. Since they are not very important to audiences outside of Japan, movie premiere dates are not included. Please check Fathom Events or Funimation Films for the most recent North American theatrical release calendar.
The releases of BD/DVD movies are covered in this list. This list will be updated when new titles come to light (typically by the preview for the next season). Please feel free to leave a remark below or shoot me a quick tweet/direct message (DM) @ZephyrRC if you see anything inaccurate or missing.
| Release Date | Title | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 10/26 | Goodbye, Don Glees! | グッバイ、ドン・グリーズ！ https://donglees.com/ | BD/DVD Release. |
| 11/16 | Karakai Jouzu no Takagi-san Movie 劇場版「からかい上手の高木さん」 ENG: Teasing Master Takagi-san: The Movie https://takagi3.me/ | BD/DVD Release. |
| 11/25 | Isekai Quartet Movie: Another World 劇場版 異世界かるてっと ～あなざーわーるど～ http://isekai-quartet.com/ | BD/DVD Release. |
| 12/04 | Kiyoneko | きよねこっ https://www.youtube.com/user/KIYOisGOD | YouTube Release. |
| 12/07 | Dragon Ball Super: Super Hero Movie ドラゴンボール超：スーパーヒーロー https://2022dbs.com/ | BD/DVD Release. |
| 12/08 | Onna no Sono no Hoshi | 女の園の星 https://www.shodensha.co.jp/onnanosono_special/ | Bundled w/ LE manga Volume 3. |
| 12/14 | INU-OH Movie | 劇場アニメーション『犬王』 https://inuoh-anime.com/ | BD/DVD Release. |
| 12/15 | Violet Evergarden: Pour Mémoire ヴァイオレット・エヴァーガーデン特別総集版 ENG: Violet Evergarden: Recollections http://violet-evergarden.jp/news/?id=180 | Recap Compilation. |
| 12/16 | LUPIN ZERO https://www.lupin-zero.com/ | DMM TV Release. |
| 12/21 | Eiga Gotōbun no Hanayome | 映画「五等分の花嫁」 ENG: The Quintessential Quintuplets Movie https://www.tbs.co.jp/anime/5hanayome/ | BD/DVD Release. |
| 12/21 | Kaitou QUEEN wa Circus ga Osuki 怪盗クイーンはサーカスがお好き ENG: Mirage QUEEN Prefers Circus https://miragequeen.jp/ | BD/DVD Release. |
| 12/21 | Re:cycle of the PENGUINDRUM https://penguindrum10th.jp/ | BD/DVD Release. Compilation w/ new scenes. |
| 12/23 | Gokushufudou Season 2 | 極主夫道 https://www.netflix.com/title/81261669 | Netflix Release. |
| 01/18 | Toku Touken Ranbu: Hanamaru ~Setsugetsuka~ 特『刀剣乱舞-花丸-』～雪月華～ https://toku.touken-hanamaru.jp/ | BD/DVD Release. |
| 01/18 | Tsurune: Hajimari no Issha | 劇場版ツルネ -はじまりの一射- ENG: Tsurune The Movie: The First Shot http://tsurune.com/ | BD/DVD Release. |
| 01/19 | Itou Junji: Maniac | 伊藤潤二『マニアック』 ENG: Junji Ito Maniac: Japanese Tales of the Macabre https://ji-anime.com/ | Netflix Release. |
| 01/26 | Shuumatsu no Walküre II | 終末のワルキューレII ENG: Record of Ragnarok II https://ragnarok-official.com/ | Netflix Release. |
| 02/15 | Bakuten!! Movie | 映画 バクテン!! ENG: Backflip!! Movie https://bakuten-movie.com/ | BD/DVD Release. |
| Feb 2023 | Aggressive Retsuko 5th Season | グレッシブ烈子 https://www.netflix.com/title/80198505 | Netflix Release. |
| Feb 2023 | MAKE MY DAY https://www.netflix.com/title/81176967 | Netflix Release. |
| 03/08 | EVANGELION:3.0+1.11 THRICE UPON A TIME https://www.evangelion.co.jp/final_bd_dvd.html | BD/DVD Release. |
| 04/05 | Free! The Final Stroke: Part 2 劇場版Free!-the Final Stroke- 後編 http://fs.iwatobi-sc.com/ | BD/DVD Release. |
Overall Impressions
The winter season is often not anime’s strongest season, and this one continues the tradition. There are numerous average concerts that, except from a few big names and potential buzz trains, may go mostly overlooked or end up emerging as genuine dark horses. We have a season on our hands that may just as easily disappear into the background as it might set the tone for 2023. Add to that the fact that several of these series are sequels (as is becoming more popular), fantasy offers, or (perhaps surprisingly) more than a few supernatural concerns. We’ll just have to wait and see how everything plays out, and there’s no better way to do so than with our Excitement Levels!
In keeping with long-standing practise, we’ll once again use our Excitement Levels to predict where we believe things are headed and what to expect. Based on our preliminary analysis of each show’s staff, seiyuu, and source material, the Excitement Levels can be a useful guide in which shows to keep at the top of your “hope to watch” list if you have a busy schedule and must make some difficult decisions about how many shows you can fit into a week. If not, it’ll offer you another excuse to giggle when we get excited about a show and it ends up falling flat on its face (as has been known to happen! ) down the stretch.
As per usual, Zephyr, Guardian Enzo, and Pancakes made up the “Excitement Council,” which decided on these levels. Although we’ve gone to great pains to take into account many points of view and avoid being carried away by our own preferences, these aren’t forecasts and shouldn’t be interpreted as such. Take these with the recommended dosage of pink Himalayan salt.
Lists are arranged alphabetically, please note.
The Rundown:
The concerts with a lot of anticipation are the ones that really thrill us. These are the programmes we are most interested in seeing and those we believe will likely set the bar for similar programmes, if not surpass it. These programmes might be the continuations of fantastic anime series, adaptations of renowned literary works, projects with illustrious resumes, or even unrelated creative works that just blow our thoughts. They don’t need to be flawless, but they must have a distinct quality. These are the series we think you should watch the most if you consider yourself a casual fan who merely dips your toes in each season.
- Hikari no Ou, Tokyo Revengers, Seiya Kessen Hen, and Vinland Saga are all quite exciting. Period 2
Optimistic shows are those that we have high expectations for and solid justification for believing may be excellent. These all have generally solid foundations and plenty to propose, but there are one or two things that make us hesitate and prevent our excitement from overflowing. However, they still possess the majority of the ingredients for really great series, and this group will produce many outstanding anime. Check out these if you’ve seen everything on High or want to learn more about your favourite genres.
- Ayakashi Triangle, Buddy Daddies, High Card, and Other Possibilities Excitement Mononogatari, Kubo-san wa Boku o Yurusanai, Ooyuki Umi no Kaina, Otonari no Tenshi-sama ni Itsunomanika, NieR:Automata Ver1.1a Ningen ni Sareteita, Dame Revenger, Ken Tensai Reijou no Mahou Kakumei, Tensei Oujo, Trigun Stampede, Tsurune: Tsunagari no Issha, Tomo-chan wa Onnanoko!
Middle-of-the-road thrill shows seem to us. They might be excellent or horrible, but there isn’t much evidence to suggest that they will be outstanding in hindsight right away. This often happens with programmes that are unduly reliant on some of the clichéd story elements seen in anime or that are deeply ingrained in the conventions of their respective genres. It may also be used to describe programmes that have obvious flaws but also include qualities that have the potential to elevate them to extraordinary heights. However, based on many of our experiences, these programmes continue to be really entertaining and sometimes end up being far better than they first seem. There is a strong emphasis on personal preference, thus results may vary.
- An average amount of excitement Mr. Benriya Saitou, Iku, Eiyuu, Isekai ni Soshite, Sekai Saikyou no Minarai Kishi, Bu o Kiwameru Tame Tenseisu , The phrase “Hyouken no Majutsushi ga Sekai o Suberu” Ijiranaide, Second Attack of Nagatoro-san, Nattara Suki in Inu ni Hito in Hirowareta Nonbiri Nouka Isekai , To Omoimasu, Itai no wa Iya nano de Bougyoryoku ni Kyokufuri Shitai. The 30-day-old Kaiko Sareta Ankoku Heishi no Slow na Second Life, 2, Kami-tachi ni Hirowareta Cool na Douryou Joshi Koori Zokusei Danshi, 2nd season of Kyokou Suiri, 2nd season of Yuuketsuki Sugu Shinu Shijou Saikyou no Maou no Shiso, Maou Gakuin no Futekigousha Gakkou e Kayou II, Tensei Shite Shison-tachi Majutsushi Orphen Hagure Tabi: Mou Ippon!, Urbanrama Hen. You Desu Ningen Fushin no Boukensha-tachi ga Sekai, Onii-chan wa Oshimai!, Nokemono-tachi no Yoru, Shin Shinka no Mi: Shiranai Uchi ni Kachigumi Jinsei, Rougo ni Sonaete Isekai de 8-manmai no Kinka o Tamemasu, Saikyou Onmyouji no Isekai Tenseiki, Kyoushitsu the spy Tondemo Skill de Isekai Hourou Meshi, Technoroid: Overmind, The Legend of Heroes: Sen no Kiseki – Northern War, Tsundere Akuyaku Reijou Liselotte to Jikkyou no Endou-kun, and Kaisetsu no Kobayashi-san
The programmes that garner the least amount of our enthusiasm are those. They often lack ambition and rather to concentrate on more trivial elements like fanservice and dumb comedy. When they don’t deviate from their cliches, they typically perform the same thing we’ve seen a million times before. They aren’t doing anything to recommend themselves, but it doesn’t mean they should receive no attention or are at the bottom of the totem pole. However, keep in mind the kind of programme they are, and you may discover something you like within this group.
- Limited Excite: UniteUp, D4DJ All Mix!
Niche programmes differ from the usual by being slower paced, covering less ground, having highly dark or gruesome content, or even being contentious. These programmes are often targeted at elderly viewers or people who think anime has grown too repetitive and want something new. This type of programmes often receives relatively little attention, yet because of this, they sometimes turn out to be hidden treasures. includes a few pieces meant for younger audiences.
- Excitement in a Niche: The Sugar Apple Fairy Tale
Any series that has aired for more than 40 episodes or that has had three or more previews is considered an established programme. This might range from shounen series that never finish to dramas that span many decades to that oddball comedy that keeps being renewed season after season. The only thing they have in common is that they’ve all had a lot of episodes broadcast, and most fans will want to catch up on all the old episodes before viewing the new ones. Remakes and spin-offs are not automatically eligible since they are regarded as new series.
- Known Excitement: Dungeon ni Deai o Motomeru no wa Machigatte Iru Darouka: Familia Myth IV, Bungou Stray Dogs (2023). (2023)
Winter 2023 Preview
Reference Sites:
https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/
