A Ton of Japanese Animation Updates Dropped Over the Holidays

The Christmas holidays present a multitude of activities far superior than checking the headlines: opening presents, getting stuffed on festive fare, and employing patience techniques to not yelling at loved ones. It is wished you succeeded in enjoy all these things and more. That said, the world of entertainment doesn't take a break, and this is particularly true for the realm of anime. Many thrilling developments came out during the holidays, and just in case you didn't see some of them, here is a summary of the juiciest bits.

The One-Punch Man Series Its Third Season Will Continue (In 2027)

Truly the most surprising piece of news, the much-discussed controversial season that was season 3 of One-Punch Man wasn't enough to stop further production. Season 3 will be back with a follow-up batch of episodes in 2027—so far away they could have labeled it season 4. Even more shocking, animation studio J.C. Staff will still be at the helm. At least this time, director Shinpei Nagai is attached to direct from the beginning, which might be a hopeful indicator. However, the key visual for the continuation is a mirror of the one used for season 3, just with characters Saitama and Garou looking opposite ways. This leads one to believe that, at this point, they are probably mocking the fans.

Ruri Dragon Is Set to Be the First Shonen Jump Anime Produced By Kyoto Animation

Kyoto Animation has forged a reputation for being an prestigious animation studio, making its mark not just for the exceptional quality of its work but for the good working conditions of its employees—a sadly unusual standard in the industry. Surprisingly, until now, it had never worked on an anime adapted from a manga serialized in Shonen Jump, possibly the most iconic magazine in the business. Ruri Dragon will break that tradition, and what a excellent choice it is. The manga by Masaoki Shindo achieved a huge following when it first appeared in 2022 after just a few chapters, but then went into a extended pause due to the mangaka's health issues. When it returned with a reduced workload, the series demonstrated it maintained the fans' support and positive sentiment, and now everyone is thrilled about the forthcoming KyoAni adaptation.

Kingdom Season 6 Is Getting a Follow-Up Now in the Works

Kingdom is the highly popular, decades-spanning Shueisha manga that is not One Piece. If you've never heard of it before, it's because it only just received an English release, but the anime has been going on for some time, and season 6 was another excellent entry. As it happens that was just the first cour, because a "sequel" has been confirmed as in production, and it will very likely air in 2026.

Science Saru Will Adapt A Witch in Mongolia Into an Anime Series

One more studio known for the artistic merit of its productions, Science Saru has brought us hit shows of the ilk of Space Dandy, Devilman Crybaby, and, most recently, Dandadan. This time, the studio will be taking on the adaptation of Tomato Soup's manga A Witch's Life in Mongol, which is based on the actual historical person of Fatima, an prominent woman and thinker in the Mongol Empire in the 13th century. Judging from the trailer, the anime named Jaadugar: A Witch in Mongolia will have a truly original and intriguing visual style, which is somewhat reminiscent of Ranking of Kings. Set to premiere in July 2026, this one will definitely be on my watchlist.

Tougen Anki Will Continue With a Second Season

Shortly after the airing of the final episode of the first season, it was announced that Tougen Anki will be receiving a second season. Based on the Japanese legend of Momotaro, Tougen Anki brings to life the manga by Yura Urushibara. The upcoming season of the anime will adapt the Nikko Kegon Falls Arc, but a concrete premiere date has not yet been announced.