As the birds and the bees give way to crushing heatwaves (or the fun of winter for those down under), anime too hasn’t forgotten seasonal change. And oh boy what a change it is. If you don’t like isekai you’re going to start as over 10 different alternate world series are up to the plate this summer, with cutesy slice-of-life in Cheat Kusushi no Slow Life meeting otome romcom sequel Otome Game X while slapstick comedy Meikyuu Black Company pairs up with the political science obsessed Genjitsu Shugi Yuusha no Oukoku Saikenki – and all bow before the eagerly awaited continuation of Tensura and Tensura-like Tsuki ga Michibiku Isekai Douchuu. Rather stay with the real world? Never fear, because we also have the likes of post-secondary romance Bokutachi no Remake, pirate adventure Kaizoku Oujo, the second season of Madoka successor Magia Record, and the onii-sama focused Mahouka spinoff Mahouka Koukou no Yuutousei to help quench any thirst. And if that wasn’t enough already, the demonic comedy Jahy-sama wa Kujikenai, the much anticipated fantasy slice-of-life sequel Kobayashi-san Chi no Maid Dragon S, and new Madhouse original Sonny Boy are here to help keep the palate entertained. It’s a season befitting of these long nights and even longer days and we’re here to tell you all about it! This is RandomC’s Summer 2021 Preview.

As is tradition now our Excitement Levels previously introduced shall again be used. With every anime a cacophony of hype and wholly immune to objective thought (because art), we will embrace the spin and give you our visceral gut reactions to what is likely to transpire. For more information, check out the Overall Impressions section at the bottom, which includes an expanded explanation of each category and a list of all shows by Excitement Level.

 

Disclaimer: Back in the ancient times of 2012, previews were done by a single writer, Divine. But even in these modern times the RandomC preview is a substantial task, so we’ve divided it up among our active staff (Choya, FJ Freeman, Gabie, Guardian Enzo, Pancakes (that’s me!), Princess Usagi, Miss Simplice, Takaii, Yaseen Hijazi, Zaiden, and Zephyr) in order to maintain the quality of this preview. We will try to point out what appeals to us in each series, in the hope it will help you determine if it coincides with your tastes.

Disclaimer #2: Please note that this list does not reflect all the series airing this coming season. It is meant to be as comprehensive as possible, but omissions have been made for shows that stray from the anime norm, seem to be oriented toward young children, or of late, shows being exclusively batch released through Netflix (refer to the OVA section for mentions on these). Likewise, any shows which have been postponed or currently lack a confirmed air date have also been excluded. Please check out MOON PHASE for complete listings, syoboi for specific air times, and Fansub DB for a list of potential sources for each series. And if we happened to miss something major, don’t hesitate to poke us!

Above all else, however, let me take this chance for a big thank you to the Random Curiosity team for this season’s preview. Life is hectic at the best of times (even while the world is starting to look up!), and if not for the help of our newbies this one definitely would have strained quite a few nerves – so the kudos are plentiful and the thanks persistent, especially for Zaiden and FJ Freeman who tackled plenty of this post’s backend. Also remember if in need of some differing perspectives to check out the LiA Summer preview for a second opinion on many of these shows.

Finally, and as always, many thanks to the entire Random Curiosity community. Whether you read every post or only a handful, whether you’re involved with and/or contribute to our Discord channel, or simply just lurk the site and stop by for the seasonal preview roundup, it’s your time, attention, and company which keep us going. Here’s to another fun season of anime for us to enjoy together!

Technical Note: The chart below is ordered by the date and time that the shows premiere. The links in the schedule will take you to a series’ corresponding entry and the “Top” links on the right will bring you back. You can also use the back/forward buttons in your browser to jump between links you’ve clicked. All times are given in a 24-hour, relative-day format where times are extended to show which day they belong to. For instance, Friday morning at 1:30AM would become Thursday at 25:30 to show that the episode aired late Thursday night. Series lacking confirmed air times are excluded until further airing info is released.

* Jump to OVA/Movies.


Peachboy Riverside | ピーチボーイリバーサイドTop
https://peachboyriverside.com/
Animation: Asahi Productions Premiere: July 1st, 2021
Genre: Adventure, Fantasy Airtime (GMT+9): Thursdays at 22:00
Episodes: 12 Station: Tokyo MX
Information Links: AniDB, ANN Encyclopedia, MyAnimeList, Syoboi, Wikipedia
Join the conversation @peachboy_anime or #ピーチボーイリバーサイド

Preview by Choya

Bored of her countryside upbringing, Princess Saltorine Aldike, or Sari (Shiraishi Haruka) aspires to go out on a rollicking adventure. But when her kingdom is ambushed by a horde of Oni, she is taken aback by the dangers of the outside world. She is luckily saved by a Kibutsu Mikoto (Touyama Nao), a mysterious traveler who slays Oni with the power of “Peach Eye”. With the Oni threatening to disturb the balance of the magical world, Sari sets out on an adventure to learn more about the world around her and follow the footsteps of the charismatic yet terrifying boy she met that day.

This is a massive season for Cool-kyou Shinja. The author is best known for KyoAni’s comedy staple Kobayashi-san Chi no Maid Dragon, the fluffy domestic comedy Danna ga Nani wo Itteiru ka Wakaranai Ken, and Chichi Chichi. But while Kobayashi-san’s next season is one of the Summer’s most hyped anime, Shinja also has Heion Sedai no Idaten-tachi and Peach Boy Riverside making its premiere this time around, both of which tapping into Shinja’s flirtation with high-fantasy beyond the real world. In the case of Peach Boy Riverside, it captures an action-heavy magical adventure that acts as interesting, uncharted territory for the author in comparison to the comedies that Shinja’s has excelled at. It’ll be neat to see whether Peach Boy Riverside will turn out to have the same amount of depth as other prominent fantasy anime when it arrives this Summer

Watching This: Choya, Guardian Enzo, Pancakes, Princess Usagi Excitement Level: Optimistic
Peachboy Riverside Promotional Videos ▼

Scarlet NexusTop
https://snx-anime.net/
Animation: Sunrise Premiere: July 1st, 2021
Genre: Action, Fantasy, Horror Airtime (GMT+9): Thursdays at 22:30
Episodes: 12 Station: Tokyo MX
Information Links: AniDB, ANN Encyclopedia, MyAnimeList, Syoboi, Wikipedia
Join the conversation @SNX_ANIME or #スカネク

Preview by Zephyr

From Sunrise comes the anime adaptation of Scarlet Nexus, Bandai Namco’s newest action role-playing game. The franchise revolves around an alternative timeline where humanity finds a psionic hormone capable of granting superhuman abilities. Coinciding with this discovery are the arrival of monsters called “Others,” which drive humanity to the brink of extinction. The Other Suppression Force (OSF) is formed to combat these enemies, with recruits utilizing their psychokinetic powers to fight off enemies as humanity’s last line of defense. Sumeragi Yuito (Enoki Junya) is one such recruit, joining the OSF following intense training and a desire to follow in the footsteps of a team that saved his life as a child. Joining him is Randall Kasane (Seto Asami), a prodigy who was scouted by the OSF and graduated the top of her class. The two navigate the futuristic city of New Himuka, fighting off the Others while trying to unravel their mysteries.

With some interesting similarities to Astral Chain, Scarlet Nexus arrives as the latest franchise featuring an apocalyptic backdrop filled with mysterious enemies that can only be fought by humans wielding special powers. It’s a pretty standard formula, which unfortunately doesn’t do the series any favors when you also consider how games don’t tend to make smooth transitions to the anime medium. The game’s striking visuals provide a bit of appeal, but it’s unrealistic to expect the same artistic quality and detail to transfer across mediums, and the perspective change from playing as the characters to watching them as viewers will likely detract from the experience as well. The fact that Tales of Vesperia’s lead designer (Anabuki Kenji) was Scarlet Nexus’ game director does provide some hope however, as his focus on character development and interactions played a large part in making Vesperia such a great game. Given how those aspects are some of the few things that can carry well across mediums, his involvement could end up helping the anime’s director (Nishimura Hiroyuki) capture the franchise’s nuances and make this worth watching. I think the best case scenario here is that Scarlet Nexus ends up doing a great job capturing the experience of the game and gets you interested in giving it a shot, but it’s always difficult recommending the anime over playing the game proper if you have the time.

Watching This: FJ Freeman, Pancakes Excitement Level: Average
Scarlet Nexus Promotional Videos ▼

Higurashi no Naku Koro ni Sotsu | ひぐらしのなく頃に卒
When They Cry – Graduation Top
https://higurashianime.com/
Animation: Passione Premiere: July 1st, 2021
Genre: Horror, Supernatural Airtime (GMT+9): Thursdays at 23:30
Episodes: 15 Station: Tokyo MX
Information Links: AniDB, ANN Encyclopedia, MyAnimeList, Syoboi, Wikipedia
Join the conversation @higu_anime or #ひぐらし卒

Preview by Princess Usagi

Ah-a pleasant summer evening in rural Hinamizawa with cicadas clicking, the sounds and smells of a local shrine festival in the distance, and the shouts of happy children playing. Except that for Houjou Satoko (Kanai Mika), Furude Rika (Tamura Yukari), Ryuuguu Rena (Nakahara Mai), and their friends those aren’t shouts of laughter, but screams of terror as they become victims of the village’s curse. They must struggle in a bloody battle against time, fate, and each other to free themselves from the bonds of this curse. Will they successfully become masters of their own future or will they be trapped to see history repeat itself again?

This is the 2nd season of studio Passione’s Higurashi no Naku Koro ni Gou, which itself was a brand new story story based in the Higurashi universe featured in a visual novel game and numerous anime adaptations. The staffing is consistent with the 1st season directed by Kawaguchi Keiichiro and music by Kawai Kenji (who also did the music for the other Higurashi anime adaptations). The first season started out great, but then took a downward spiral when the plot became driven by Satoko’s childish selfishness. Hopefully for the second season, the story will pick up again and make progress in terms of character development and plot. From the promo video, it appears as if focus will be shifting back onto Rena who was overlooked for most of the previous season. This may be a sign of things moving in a fresher direction, even if she does become another character for Satoko to manipulate.

Watching This: Guardian Enzo, Princess Usagi Excitement Level: Established
Higurashi no Naku Koro ni Sotsu Promotional Videos ▼

Vanitas no Karte | ヴァニタスの手記
The Case Study of Vanitas Top
https://vanitas-anime.com/
Animation: Bones Premiere: July 2nd, 2021
Genre: Historical, Supernatural Airtime (GMT+9): Fridays at 24:00
Episodes: 12 Station: Tokyo MX
Information Links: AniDB, ANN Encyclopedia, MyAnimeList, Syoboi, Wikipedia
Join the conversation @vanitas_anime or #ヴァニタス

Preview by Princess Usagi

A trip to the bookstore is an adventure for any avid reader. To complete the quest for the sought after book, the hero/heroine must first overcome any uncertainties as to whether the said book is available, then undertake the mission to locate the tome, and finally to dodge any obstacles such as shelf-stocking “elves”, stray stools, and long lines. Noé (Hanae Natsuki), the protagonist of Vanitas no Karte, is also on the hunt for a good read-a cursed magic book, the Book of Vanitas. The author, Vanitas, was a vampire whose once in a blue moon birth (quite literally) caused him to be ostracized by vampire society and vowed retribution against vampire-kind. Vanitas’ name and book are passed on to a vampire physician living in Paris in the 1800’s, who crosses paths with Noé on Noé’s book-hunt. Is Noé’s interest in the Book of Vanitas purely academic or will he use the secrets within as he unravels the mysteries behind Dr. Vanitas and his namesake?

I have not read the manga source for this series, however anything having to do with history and vampires always gets my attention. With BONES (Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood, Boku no Hero Academia) being in charge of this anime, I have high hopes for the art design and overall execution of the story. From the promo clips I’ve seen, the music (by Kajiura Yuki, who also did soundtracks for Kimetsu no Yaiba and Tsubasa: RESERVoir CHRoNiCLE (which is one of my favorite anime soundtracks)) sounds soaringly gorgeous, which is another draw. In terms of writing, Deko Akao will be in charge of the scripts. She also did some of the script writing for Akagami no Shirayuki-hime, Doukyonin wa Hiza, Tokidoki Atama no Ue, and Arakawa Under the Bridge– all shows I enjoyed for their engaging storytelling, which bodes well for this series.

Watching This: Choya, Guardian Enzo, FJ Freeman, Pancakes, Princess Usagi, Zaiden Excitement Level: High
Vanitas no Carte Promotional Videos ▼

100-man no Inochi no Ue ni Ore wa Tatte Iru (2021) | 100万の命の上に俺は立っている (2021)
I’m Standing on a Million Lives 2nd Season Top
http://1000000-lives.com/
Animation: Maho Film Premiere: July 2nd, 2021
Genre: Sci-Fi, Fantasy Airtime (GMT+9): Fridays at 24:30
Episodes: 12 Station: Tokyo MX
Information Links: AniDB, ANN Encyclopedia, MyAnimeList, Syoboi, Wikipedia
Join the conversation @1000000_lives or #俺100

Preview by Pancakes

When it comes to the daily routine, Yotsuya Yuusuke (Uemura Yuuto) couldn’t find it worse. A dedicated loner more concerned with games than the future, Yuusuke gets a very rude awakening one day when, in the midst of classroom chores, he and fellow classmates Shindou Iu (Kubota Risa) and Hakokaze Kusue (Waki Azumi) are whisked away to another world by a being called the Game Master. In this world they have a very specific duty: complete various quests to help save the real world, or wind up dead. Not the most appealing of tasks, and while the group successfully works through several quests with the help of one Tokitate Yuka (Koichi Makoto), their discovery of the truth behind this alternate world makes things worse. Yuusuke and friends may be partway through completing the Game Master’s requirements, but the next stage could prove to be more than they can handle.

As far as isekai go, 100-man no Inochi is firmly with the crowd. Although an intriguing twist on the usual shenanigans courtesy of survival game flair and RPG mechanics mashup, 100-man’s first season, whether from rushing/source chopping or lacklustre production, had a hard time making its presence felt. Or in other words, as is increasingly common, a story which arguably works better in its source material than in anime form. The good news though is that this season should be an overall improvement; all cast and crew are carrying over, the series is set to move into some of its more entertaining arcs, and major plot details teased previously are about to assume major importance. While I wouldn’t expect the production values to similarly grow by leaps and bounds, there’s nothing so far to suggest anything too different in comparison to the first cour. Series fans obviously know where they stand already, but if you have a taste for quirky isekai and liked what the first season had on tap, 100-man no Inochi is certainly one to keep a tab on this season.

Watching This: No one yet Excitement Level: Average
100-man no Inochi no Ue ni Ore wa Tatte Iru (2021) Promotional Videos ▼

Otome Game no Hametsu Flag shika Nai Akuyaku Reijou ni Tensei Shiteshimatta… X | 乙女ゲームの破滅フラグしかない悪役令嬢に転生してしまった…X
My Next Life as a Villainess: All Routes Lead to Doom! X Top
https://hamehura-anime.com/
Animation: Silver Link Premiere: July 2nd, 2021
Genre: Comedy, Fantasy, Slice of Life Airtime (GMT+9): Fridays at 25:25
Episodes: 12 Station: MBS/TBS
Information Links: AniDB, ANN Encyclopedia, MyAnimeList, Syoboi, Wikipedia
Join the conversation @hamehura or #はめふらX

Preview by Gabie

Behold! It’s the second season of the darling villainess reincarnates trope. What a feast for us indulgent degenerate fujoshi. For the new sailors boarding our rom-com ship of zero seriousness: Hamefura follows the shenanigans of Catarina Claes ( Uchida Maaya), the daughter of a rich Duke, who ends up recovering memories from her past life as a Japanese teenage girl after getting hit in the head. Now, living inside the body of the infamous villainess, she strives her best to live a peaceful life and avoid Red Flags and the impending doom of her Bad End!

This series is based on the Light-Novels by Yamaguchi Satoru and is animated by SILVER LINK. I first started reading the manga out of curiosity when the serialization had been on chapter five. While I usually prefer Manhwa when it comes to the Villainess Reincarnation trope, Hamefura won me over due to its sheer lack of taking itself seriously. I have actually not watched the first season (because apparently I live in a cave), but I’ll definitely catch up to it now that I’ve found out it exists! And I can’t wait to see my sweet tsundere Prince Alan (Suzuki Tatsuhisa) and the lovely Mary (Okasaki Miho) as their animated selves!

Watching This: Pancakes, Zaiden Excitement Level: Optimistic
Otome Game no Hametsu Flag shika Nai Akuyaku Reijou ni Tensei Shiteshimatta… X Promotional Videos ▼

Ore, Tsushima | 俺, つしま
I, Tsushima Top
https://www.tsushima-anime.com/
Animation: Fanworks and Space Neko Company Premiere: July 2nd, 2021
Genre: Comedy, Slice of Life Airtime (GMT+9): Fridays at 25:55
Episodes: 12 Station: MBS / TBS
Information Links: AniDB, ANN Encyclopedia, MyAnimeList, Syoboi, Wikipedia
Join the conversation @tsushima_anime or #俺つしまィ

Preview by Gabie

Cat lovers from all over the world this is your calling! Ore, Tsushima is the promise of a realistic depiction of cats like none other. The plot revolves around “Ojii-chan” (Tanaka Mayumi), an elderly female lady who is mistaken as a man by the cats she takes care of. One fine day, Ojii-chan stumbles upon an audacious cat named Tsushima (Ootsuka Akio) who can talk?! And thus starts the absurd tales of these two characters and their daily interactions.

Created by mangaka Opuunokyodai and animated by Fanworks (Aggretsuko) in partnership with Space Neko Company, the animation style in Ore, Tsushima is unusual to say the least. With its realistic cats and oddly shaped humans, one thing is for sure: as strange as it looks the series has gained enough recognition and support to become an anime with only three published volumes. Trying to create an imaginary avatar of who would read and watch this show in Japan did wonders to make me laugh with myself. It was also impossible not to think about Luffy and All For One (who also plays Blackbeard in One Piece) whilst watching the PVs, what a wonder duo!

Watching This: Guardian Enzo, Princess Usagi Excitement Level: Niche
Ore, Tsushima Promotional Videos ▼

Kanojo mo Kanojo | カノジョも彼女
Girlfriend, Girlfriend Top
https://kanokano-anime.com/
Animation: Tezuka Productions Premiere: July 2nd, 2021
Genre: Comedy, Romance, School-Life Airtime (GMT+9): Fridays at 26:25
Episodes: 12 Station: MBS/TBS
Information Links: AniDB, ANN Encyclopedia, MyAnimeList, Syoboi, Wikipedia
Join the conversation @kanokano_anime or #kanokano

Preview by Choya

Dating can be a difficult ordeal. Naoya Mukai (Enoki Junya) learns this detail first-hand when he’s successfully lands a date with his childhood friend Saki Saki (Sakura Ayane) after years of unrequited love. His success is short-lived, however, when he receives an abrupt confession from Nagisa Minase (Waki Azumi), a classmate who completely changed herself to be more desirable for him. Naoya tries to turn her down at first, considering that he’s already committed himself to date Saki. But when Naoya is too overwhelmed with guilt to reject Nagisa, he comes up with a solution that he believes wouldn’t betray Saki’s trust in him; Two-Timing! Saki is entirely against the idea but ends up relenting when Naoya and Nagisa make a scene to sell her on the idea of polygamy. With this, the three end up pursuing a non-traditional relationship as Nagisa and Saki have to contend with each other as they both date Naoya.

There are many expectations placed on the viewers of Kanojo mo Kanojo to suspend any disbelief with regards to how ethical a relationship built on two-timing can be. While polygamy and polyamory are still considered normal, the kind of pressure that Naoya places on Saki to allow such a relationship to happen firmly plants Naoya in a less sympathetic light. In fact, it’s hard not to come up with the snap judgment that Naoya is a two-timing scumbag who comes off as a sociopath for making a dramatic, upset, and tearful plea to enter into a relationship where he can have his cake and eat it too. Naoya pulling the sad puppy-eyes routine to appeal to Saki’s empathy for Nagisa comes off as a little twisted. Needless to say that there have been numerous stories about morally unethical people that are classics, so none of this is a knock on Kanojo mo Kanojo. It would just be something to keep into consideration as the anime pulls you (and other audience members) into its grasp in the Summer season.

Watching This: Choya, Pancakes Excitement Level: Average
Kanojo mo Kanojo Promotional Videos ▼

Bokutachi no Remake | ぼくたちのリメイク
Remake our Life! Top
https://bokurema.com/
Animation: Studio Feel Premiere: July 3rd, 2021
Genre: Slice of Life, Comedy Airtime (GMT+9): Saturdays at 22:00
Episodes: 12 Station: Tokyo MX
Information Links: AniDB, ANN Encyclopedia, MyAnimeList, Syoboi, Wikipedia
Join the conversation @TBF_PR or #bokurema

Preview by Zephyr

From studio feel. comes the adaptation of Kio Nachi’s (AoKana, Grisaia no Kajitsu) light novel, Bokutachi no Remake. Led by director Kobayashi Tomoki (Akame ga Kill!, Utawarerumono), the series focuses on 28-year old game developer Hashiba Kyoya (Itou Masahiro). Following his company’s bankruptcy, Kyoya is forced to return to his hometown, where he rues his life choices and wonders what could have been. The following day, Kyoya suddenly finds himself ten years in the past and gifted with a second opportunity to attend the prestigious Oonaka Arts College instead. Kyoya now finds himself spending time with the same creators he admired—ones he knows will become famous in the future. Will things finally begin to change? Or will things take an unexpected turn?

As a fan of Kio Nachi’s prior works in AoKana and Grisaia no Kajitsu (Yumiko’s Route), his association with Bokurema was what got me interested in the series in the first place. I read most of the first volume as a result, and while it felt like a pretty standard opening, it did get me interested enough to see how things end up. I’ve always been a sucker for second chance success stories, so this series ticks a lot of the right boxes for me. Bokurema doesn’t boast the “first” or “top 5” accolades that other recent adaptations have had—it “only” ranked in the top ten in Takarajimasha’s Kono Light Novel ga Sugoi guidebook in 2018 and 2019—so I expect it to fall under the radar a bit, but this should end up an above average series with the potential to be something more. I’ve heard nothing but good things when it comes to recommendations and it’s worth noting that its themes are likely to strike a chord with many viewers given the protagonist’s age and outlook, making it a series that will become especially memorable for some.

Watching This: Choya, Guardian Enzo, Pancakes, Princess Usagi, Zaiden Excitement Level: Optimistic
Bokutachi no Remake Promotional Videos ▼

Mahouka Koukou no Yuutousei | 魔法科高校の優等生
The Honor Student at Magic High School Top
https://mahouka-yuutousei.jp/
Animation: Studio Connect Premiere: July 3rd, 2021
Genre: Sci-Fi, Slice-of-Life Airtime (GMT+9): Saturdays at 23:30
Episodes: 12 Station: Tokyo MX
Information Links: AniDB, ANN Encyclopedia, MyAnimeList, Syoboi, Wikipedia
Join the conversation @mahouka_anime or #mahouka

Preview by Pancakes

Less than a year after returning to the anime screen, fan favourite Mahouka is back once more to grace us with magic shenanigans – just not in way you might expect. Spinning off from Mahouka Koukou no Rettousei, Mahouka Koukou no Yuutousei focuses on the female side of its eponymous Shiba duo, with Miyuki (Hayami Saori) taking the place of big brother Tatsuya (Nakamura Yuuichi) on the main character stage. In Mahouka’s world magic has become commonplace and extensively studied, with magic users attending various schools to hone their skills. Ability is everything in magic, and while her brother Tatsuya, due to poor practical skill, winds up relegated to a low achievement student stream, Miyuki’s beauty, talent, and academic perfection quickly shoots her into school stardom. Everyone of course knows just what her brother (and Mahouka’s world in general) got up to as a result, but Miyuki has her own story to tell, and Yuutousei is here to help show it off.

If there’s one thing to say about Mahouka it’s that its popularity sure is consistent. While one of the more polarizing franchises of late, Mahouka has done remarkably well retaining interest, recently turning a six-year break into a successful Rettousei sequel (and soon-to-be third season) alongside Yuutousei. And rest assured Yuutousei will be everything you know and love (and hate) of Mahouka. For the uninitiated the only important thing to know here is that Yuutousei is Mahouka’s Railgun: this season will largely rehash Rettousei’s first season and feature the same events, but now from Miyuki’s perspective. Don’t expect it to match Railgun in qualitative improvement over its franchise parent (too much onii-sama for any Sisters-esque redemption), however given how rushed Rettousei’s first season was there’s plenty of opportunity to help ameliorate the more noticeable issues. Yuutousei certainly won’t be for everyone, but if you ever wanted to see what Mahouka would be like without Magic Jesus at the wheel, make sure to keep this spinoff on your summer radar.

Watching This: Pancakes Excitement Level: Average
Mahouka Koukou no Yuutousei Promotional Videos ▼

Kageki Shoujo!! | かげきしょうじょ!!
Opera Girl!! The Curtain Rises Top
https://kageki-anime.com/
Animation: Pine Jam Premiere: July 3rd, 2021
Genre: Comedy, Drama, School-Life Airtime (GMT+9): Saturdays at 24:00
Episodes: 12 Station: AT-X
Information Links: AniDB, ANN Encyclopedia, MyAnimeList, Syoboi, Wikipedia
Join the conversation @kageki_anime or #かげきしょうじょ

Preview by Gabie

Founded in the beginning of the Taishou Era, the exclusive Kouka School of Musical and Theatrical Arts (Kouka Kageki Kōkō) is a renowned academy known to only accept the most distinguished and passionate young ladies into their program. Slightly wary though ambitious, Narata Ai (Hanamori Yumiri) is a former member of an infamous idol group named JPX48 who can’t wait to live as far away from men as possible. Watanabe Sarasa (Senbongi Sayaka), on the other hand, is an exceptionally tall bright-eyed beam of country-side-sunshine who dreams of playing the perfect Oscar-sama (Versailles no Bara) on stage–much to all of her classmates’ annoyance. Kageki Shoujo!! is a story about passion, unique talent, ambition, dreams, hard-work and overcoming obstacles.

Based on the ongoing series by mangaka Saiki Kumiko, this is personally the series that I’m looking forward to the most this summer season. I absolutely adore Sarasa and her Hinata Shoyo vibes and I can’t help but parallel this series with one of one of my favorite shoujo manga of all time: Glass Mask. I love a good shounen, but man, give me a Shoujo series about ambitious passionate young women and I’ll be front row with a popcorn bucket in the blink of an eye. Pine Jam is a relatively young animation studio, but from what I’ve seen of the PVs I think they’ve done a great job with Kageki Shoujo!!

Watching This: Choya, Gabie Excitement Level: Average
Kageki Shoujo!! Promotional Videos ▼

Genjitsu Shugi Yuusha no Oukoku Saikenki | 現実主義勇者の王国再建記
How a Realist Hero Rebuilt the Kingdom Top
https://genkoku-anime.com/
Animation: J.C. Staff Premiere: July 3rd, 2021
Genre: Fantasy Airtime (GMT+9): Saturdays at 25:30
Episodes: 13 Station: Tokyo MX
Information Links: AniDB, ANN Encyclopedia, MyAnimeList, Syoboi, Wikipedia
Join the conversation @genkoku_info or #現国アニメ

Preview by Pancakes

For one Souma Kazuya (Kobayashi Yuusuke), life sucks. A recent university graduate down from the passing of his grandfather, Kazuya is wholly uncertain of his future or what to really do with his life. Until said life decides for him by dumping him a literal world away into the Kingdom of Elfrieden. Kazuya, as he discovers, was summoned by Elfrieden to help its struggling fortunes, but unlike other isekai protagonists was not given any special talents or hidden powers. No, Kazuya was summoned for his mind, and so utilizing years of real-world academic learning concocts a plan to save the kingdom. A plan so great that Elfrieden’s king even abdicates in favour of Kazuya and offers him his daughter’s hand in marriage to get it implemented. Not at all the course that Kazuya expected his future to take, but with a kingdom to save he’ll do what’s needed to help keep the peace.

What’s this, an isekai not immediately about saving the world or using ridiculous abilities? Oh yes, you’ve read right. At its core Genjitsu is largely a genre deviant, putting aside the usual isekai tropes in favour of more niche concepts – in this case, political science and economics. It’s not the first series to do so (Maoyuu Maou Yuusha) or even the first isekai to test the waters (Choyoyu), but it’s arguably the first to go all in. And I mean all in. Name dropping the likes of Machiavelli and Sun Tzu; dealing with the nitty gritty of social systems; tackling politics: it’s all societal system building all the time here. So much so that Kazuma even dispenses with usual power fantasy to better flaunt his pedantic knowledge base. Except for the harem, that’s still firmly derivative. In short expect this to trend more towards the average than legitimate masterpiece, however, there’s room for surprise if the adaptation can reign in the worst excesses of the source material. Genjitsu won’t be breaking any major new ground, but look no further than it if you’re in need of some alternate world variety this season.

Watching This: Pancakes, Zaiden Excitement Level: Average
Genjitsu Shugi Yuusha no Oukoku Saikenki Promotional Videos ▼

RE-MAIN Top
https://re-main.net/
Animation: MAPPA Premiere: July 3rd, 2021
Genre: Sports, School-Life Airtime (GMT+9): Saturdays at 25:30
Episodes: 12 Station: TV Asahi
Information Links: AniDB, ANN Encyclopedia, MyAnimeList, Syoboi, Wikipedia
Join the conversation @remain_anime or #re_main

Preview by Yaseen Hijazi

Minato Kiyoumizu (Yuuto Uemura) quit playing water polo following an incident in his 3rd year of junior high which caused him to lose interest in the sport. Now as a high schooler, Minato has decided to try water polo again, joining the school’s team alongside his group of friends. Written by Masafumi Nishida and animated by studio MAPPA, this series is going to be so pleasing to the eyes. The trailer alone is enough to hook you into this series, with gorgeous animations and an aesthetic art style that gives plenty of life to the characters.

I also want to give a special mention to the soundtrack used in the trailer, which is composed by Kana Utanane and gives off a very Haikyuu-like vibe, if you know what I’m talking about. Full of hope and inspiration, the music combined with the smooth visuals and creative use of colors makes RE-MAIN the must-watch Sports anime of the Summer 2021 season. I do not know a damn thing about water polo (except that it’s played in the water), but this is one of those series I just know I’m going to love!

Watching This: Choya, Guardian Enzo, FJ Freeman, Princess Usagi, Yaseen Hijazi Excitement Level: Optimistic
Re-Main Promotional Videos ▼

Getter Robo Arc | ゲッターロボ アークTop
https://getterrobot-arc.com/
Animation: Bee Media Premiere: July 4th, 2021
Genre: Action, Sci-Fi Airtime (GMT+9): Sundays at 21:00
Episodes: 12 Station: AT-X
Information Links: AniDB, ANN Encyclopedia, MyAnimeList, Syoboi, Wikipedia
Join the conversation @getterrobot_arc or #getter_a

Preview by Yaseen Hijazi

The fifth installment of the Getto Robo series by Go Nagai and Ken Ishikawa is finally here, and fans of the series are excited, to say the least! Taking place several years after its prequel Getter Robo Go, the world is now in a state of post-apocalypse, and Hayato Jin (Naoya Uchida), who is now an aged scientist, has completed Saotome’s master project, the Getter Robo Arc. Takuma Nagare (Yuuma Uchida), the son of Ryoma Nagare, is piloting the robot alongside human dinosaur Shou Kamui (Arimaro Mukaino) and Baku Yamagishi (Kazuhiro Sunseki). The story follows the battle between the Getter Robo Arc pilots, who are now allied with the reformed Dinosaur Empire, as they fight against the insectoid Andromeda Flow Country who attack from across space and time.

Brought to you by studio Bee Media, this series is Action Sci-Fi with plenty of big Gundam-like robots for all you Mecha fans out there. I don’t consider myself a fan of Mecha in the slightest, but even I can appreciate the awesome animation job of this upcoming series. The trailer had me yearning for more with its breath-taking fight sequences and the art style and character designs are not too shabby either. If you are looking for a great Mecha series this Summer of 2021, then Getter Robo Arc is my top pick for you!

Watching This: No one yet Excitement Level: Established
Getter Robo Arc Promotional Videos ▼

Tantei wa Mou, Shindeiru. | 探偵はもう, 死んでいる.
The Detective Is Already Dead Top
https://tanmoshi-anime.jp/
Animation: ENGI Premiere: July 4th, 2021
Genre: Fantasy, Mystery Airtime (GMT+9): Sundays at 21:30
Episodes: 12 Station: AT-X
Information Links: AniDB, ANN Encyclopedia, MyAnimeList, Syoboi, Wikipedia
Join the conversation @tanteiwamou_ or #たんもし

Preview by Zephyr

“Is there a detective on this plane?” It was that odd question that first led Kimihiko Kimizuka (Nagai Shin) to her. A beautiful girl with silver hair who called herself a detective. Following the incident, Kimizuka found himself embarking on a multi-year adventure as a detective’s assistant. Together they solved mysteries, took down criminal organizations, and saved thousands of lives—until one day, she died. The one who called herself Siesta (Miyashita Saki) met an untimely death and just like that, the journey was over. One year after Siesta’s tragic death however, Kimizuka is suddenly accosted by a stranger who demands his assistance. With an uncanny resemblance to the late detective, he now finds his wish to have a normal high-school life in peril. A light novel adaptation, the series will be produced by studio ENGI and led by Kurihara Manabu, whose previous roles included animation director and key animation for series such as Bleach and the Macross Frontier movie, Sayonara no Tsubasa.

If there’s one thing Tantei wa Mou, Shindeiru. knows how to do, it’s grab your attention. The title and the synopsis are both eye catchers and I remember going, what the heck does the title even mean when I saw it for the first time. Is the detective’s solving crimes from the dead? Are they going to do a series that just recaps old cases from an already dead detective? It was intriguing to think about, and while I didn’t manage to get a full picture of the series because there were only a handful of translated chapters (some of which were out of order), I only found myself more interested after peeking a bit at the source material. The character interactions were enjoyable, the addition of a bit of fantasy made it different from your standard mystery affair, and the occasional flashback and shift in perspectives made the novel really fun to read through. I’m pretty hyped about this, but there is some concern about studio ENGI’s ability to follow through, as they’ve mostly focused on assisting other studios rather than leading their own productions. The initial PVs look pretty darn nice though.

Watching This: Yaseen Hijazi Excitement Level: Optimistic
Tantei wa Mou, Shindeiru. Promotional Videos ▼

Tian Guan Ci Fu | 天官賜福 日本語吹替版
Heaven Official’s BlessingTop
https://tgcf-anime.com/
Animation: Haoliners Animation Premiere: July 4th, 2021
Genre: Fantasy, Mystery, Romance Airtime (GMT+9): Sundays at 21:30
Episodes: 12 Station: Tokyo MX
Information Links: AniDB, ANN Encyclopedia, MyAnimeList, Syoboi, Wikipedia
Join the conversation @tgcf or #HeavenOfficialsBlessing

Preview by Zaiden

Xie Lan (Kamiya Hiroshi) was an exceedingly kind and capable prince beloved by all of his subjects. So it was no surprise that he achieved immortal ascension during his teenage years. However, during his first few years as a god, Xie Lan sees the people in his kingdom dying from drought and a horrific plague. Unable to hold back even though gods are not permitted to defy fate when dealing with mortal matters, he eventually chooses to intervene – a tragic decision because it only makes matters worse and he falls in the process – enduring through humiliating life and death cycles. Scorned by divinity for breaking their edicts and mortals for worsening their situation, despite his best intentions in shouldering the burden of trying to save the people he loved, Xie Lan can only grit his teeth as he endures his third ascension through a cruel world where he is wrongfully ostracised and has lost all the people he ever loved – with his shrines and temples all being destroyed having been labelled a God of Misfortune. Yet he continues to smile even through all his personal tragedies, because he cannot help expressing his good nature or being kind. His first assignment takes him to a mountain village as he tries to solve the case of disappearing brides. But he crosses path with Hua Cheng – the Crimson Rain Sought Flower, one of the Four Great Calamities that the heavenly realms fear. Also named as such because silver butterflies and showers of blood accompany his wake. Yet unbeknownst to Xie Lian, he shares a very long past spanning centuries with Hua Cheng – going back to the time when he was a crown prince widely beloved for his compassion towards common folk.

Heaven Official’s Blessing is a modern Chinese novel set in a martial fantasy world, where people train themselves physically and spiritually to attain greater heights – potentially even godhood. Due to Mo Xiang Tong Xiu’s popularity as a BL writer in Asia, combined with the rise of Chinese animation in the past decade, TV broadcast stations decided to bring the animated adaptations of her works over to Japanese TV. Which is why this show can be classified as anime despite its Chinese origins. Also known for writing Mo Dao Zu Shi, the prevalent themes in Mo Xiang Tong Xiu’s novels are gratitude, revenge, and the complexity of relationships. Examining grey morality, her novels showcase a spectrum of the human condition, including the intricacies of underlying beliefs as well as how they can drive a person to action, and the kinds of connections that can be formed and broken under extreme circumstances. If the premise sounds interesting to you, I would highly recommend giving this show a chance – especially if you enjoy mystical fantasy expositions or plenty of dialogue between characters.

Watching This: Zaiden Excitement Level: Average
Heaven Officials Blessing Promotional Videos ▼

Shinigami Bocchan to Kuro Maid | 死神坊ちゃんと黒メイド
The Duke of Death and His Maid Top
https://bocchan-anime.com/
Animation: J.C. Staff Premiere: July 4th, 2021
Genre: Comedy, Romance, Supernatural Airtime (GMT+9): Sundays at 22:00
Episodes: 12 Station: Tokyo MX
Information Links: AniDB, ANN Encyclopedia, MyAnimeList, Syoboi, Wikipedia
Join the conversation @bocchan_anime or #死神坊ちゃん

Preview by Guardian Enzo

I’ve been reading Ikami Koharu’s manga since its early days (ever since it caught my eye on a bookstore shelf). It’s the story of a young nobleman who’s been cursed by a witch so that anything he touches dies instantly. That’s gotten him banished from the family estate to a detached house, with only a maid named Alice and an old butler named Rob for company. The look and tone are very much European fairy tale mixed with shounen manga – maybe reminiscent of Kuroshitsuji (well, no maybe about it) but not nearly as dark or violent. It has real charm, and I like it a lot.

While no masterpiece, Shinigami Bochan is the safest bet of a generally weak season for me. I would be lying if I said the fact that the adaptation is full CGI doesn’t bother me. This is not a series – unlike Hi Score Girl – which has any artistic reason for that choice. This is cost-cutting, nothing more. While J.C. Staff’s track record with CGI is inconsistent (and that’s charitable) Shinigami Bochan does at least have Yamakawa Yoshiki and most of the HSG team in-charge. I expect the adaptation to be solid from a narrative standpoint for that reason, though the usual caveats about one-cour (presumably) adaptations of ongoing manga apply.

Watching This: Guardian Enzo, Princess Usagi, Zaiden Excitement Level: Optimistic
Shinigami Bocchan to Kuro Maid Promotional Videos ▼

IDOLiSH7: Third BEAT! | アイドリッシュセブン Third BEAT!Top
https://idolish7.com/aninana/
Animation: Troyca Premiere: July 4th, 2021
Genre: Music Airtime (GMT+9): Sundays at 22:30
Episodes: 12 Station: Tokyo MX
Information Links: AniDB, ANN Encyclopedia, MyAnimeList, Syoboi, Wikipedia
Join the conversation @ID7_anime, #アニナナ, or #アイナナ

Preview by FJ Freeman

Takanashi Productions is back, bringing all the boys with them! Remember you hold infinite potential as an idol! All of your dreams can come true! And you can be whoever you want to be, just remember to always stay true to your heart, and never forget who you are! That’s the wholesome vibes I’m expected to receive from this show.

The boys are back, taking center stage in this third season of IDOLiSH 7. Follow all of the lads as they try to become the very best that they can be, so they may bring smiles and happiness to your life. You know them, you love them, you probably already have your favorite, and the one you hate. It’s okay, we all do. Collectively we can scream and fawn over how pretty they are, how hard they work, and how much heart they put into their performance, so that we may enjoy it to the full extent!

Watching This: No one yet Excitement Level: Limited
IDOLiSH7: Third BEAT! Promotional Videos ▼

Uramichi Onii-san | うらみちお兄さん
Life Lessons with Uramichi Oniisan Top
http://uramichi-anime.com/
Animation: Studio Blanc Premiere: July 5th, 2021
Genre: Comedy, Slice of Life Airtime (GMT+9): Mondays at 25:30
Episodes: 12 Station: TV Tokyo
Information Links: AniDB, ANN Encyclopedia, MyAnimeList, Syoboi, Wikipedia
Join the conversation @uramichi_anime or #うらみちお兄さん

Preview by Princess Usagi

Ever wonder if the actors on children’s tv shows seem way too happy, that surely more than just the life-sized animals must be fake (i.e. their smiles). In the case of Omota Uramichi (Kamiya Hiroshi), you would be correct. Omota is one of the stars of a children’s show and while the job description is teaching inspirational messages that the youngsters should take with them into adulthood, this adult can’t help but exude disillusionment with grown-up life. His snarky attitude barely covered by that fake grin just might make the kids think twice about becoming an adult and start looking for the exit to Never Never Land.

This web manga based show is done by Studio Blanc, which has only done a few other shows- mostly ecchi school-life comedies (Ro-Kyu-Bu!), whereas this is more comedy about grown-up life. The show could go two ways. Either it starts out funny, but they resort to over-used tropes and stick ecchi-esque elements where they don’t belong. Or, they could succeed at branching out with slice of life comedy and provide a relatable, funny show about adults disillusioned with their inner child. There does seem to be a lot of recognizable names in the cast- Kamiya Hiroshi as the MC and Miyano Mamoru, Nakamura Yuuichi, and Sugita Tomokazu among the supporting cast. The contradiction between what adults tell kids life is like versus the life adults lead certainly seems fodder for laughter, as anyone who has been around kids long enough will know-it all just depends on how they execute it.

Watching This: Choya, Princess Usagi Excitement Level: Average
Uramichi Onii-san Promotional Videos ▼

Seirei Gensouki | 精霊幻想記
Spirit Chronicles Top
https://seireigensouki.com/
Animation: TMS Entertainment Premiere: July 5th, 2021
Genre: Adventure, Drama, Fantasy Airtime (GMT+9): Mondays at 26:00
Episodes: 12 Station: TV Tokyo
Information Links: AniDB, ANN Encyclopedia, MyAnimeList, Syoboi, Wikipedia
Join the conversation @seireigensouki or #精霊幻想記

Preview by Gabie

Rio (Matsuoka Yoshitsugu) is an orphaned boy living in the slums of a fantastical world. He was taken in by a character who resembles Fagin’s Storyline in Oliver Twist. Moved by his need of revenge over the murder of his mother when he was five years old, this helpless soul falls ill one day only to wake up with memories from a different world and a different life. Amakawa Haruto was his name in this strange dimension, a boy who failed to fulfill the promise of meeting with his childhood sweetheart and died in an accident. Due to his (un)luck he stumbles upon a kidnapping scene where he awakens a great power and saves… The Princess of the Kingdom! Due to his incredible deed, Rio is given a scholarship at the Royal Academy, an exclusive school for the powerful nobility. Seirei Gensouki follows the story of this powerful outcast as he tries to make sense of this life and find the answers he’s looking for.

TMS Entertainment is the studio behind Kitayama Yuri’s Light Novel adaptation. I’ve tried the first four chapters of the manga and if you’re into Isekai, cute girls, hybrids, magic and harem vibes, this show might be just your cup of tea! After watching Mushoku Tensei any Isekai feels subpar sorry, but there’s a reason why they keep getting adapted, it’s undeniable that the public has a deep affection for the genre. Both the manga and the novel are still ongoing.

Watching This: Pancakes Excitement Level: Average
Seirei Gensouki Promotional Videos ▼

Tensei Shitara Slime Datta Ken 2nd Season Part 2 | 転生したらスライムだった件 (2021 第2部)
That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime Season 2 Top
https://www.ten-sura.com/
Animation: 8bit Studio Premiere: July 5th, 2021
Genre: Adventure, Fantasy Airtime (GMT+9): Tuesdays at 23:00
Episodes: 12 Station: Tokyo MX
Information Links: AniDB, ANN Encyclopedia, MyAnimeList, Syoboi, Wikipedia
Join the conversation @ten_sura_anime or #転スラ OR #tensura

Preview by FJ Freeman

Yes, thousand times yes! Tensei Shitara Slime Datta Ken is back with the second cour of its 2nd season. Following the adventures of Rimuru (Miho Okasaki) a reincarnated slime, who is now the leader of a monster nation called Tempest. Since day one Tensei Shitara Slime Datta Ken has captured me with its heart and the way it maneuvers political and socio-economic situations within its lore and story. Rimuru has certainly become special to me and has grown as one of my favorites.

This time around we should be seeing more of Veldora (Tomoaki Maeno) now finally released from Rimuru’s grasp and discharged into a new body. So, how will things with Velodra affect Tempest as a nation and who is going to become enemies with the community and how will Rimuru deal with them? This and more are coming up in the second season of that slime anime. None the less I’m happy for cannon Tensei Shitara Slime Datta Ken to make a comeback and delight us once more with its presence.

Watching This: FJ Freeman, Pancakes, Zaiden Excitement Level: High
Tensei Shitara Slime Datta Ken 2nd Season Part 2 Promotional Videos ▼

TSUKIPRO THE ANIMATION 2Top
http://tsukipro-anime.com/
Animation: PRA Premiere: July 7th, 2021
Genre: Music Airtime (GMT+9): Wednesdays at 22:30
Episodes: 13 Station: Tokyo MX
Information Links: AniDB, ANN Encyclopedia, MyAnimeList, Syoboi, Wikipedia
Join the conversation @tsukipro_anime or #プロアニ

Preview by Miss Simplice

It’s been 4 years since the last episode of Tsukipro the Animation’s first season aired. So for fans who first fell in love with the idol groups, it’s been a long wait. This new season will continue to follow the idol bands SOARA, Growth, SolidS, and QUELL on their journey to stardom. The idol groups are produced by the fictional production company, Tsukino Talent Productions which is the link between this storyline and that of Tsukiuta. The Animation, a sister series to this one. Like any idol series, viewers will be treated to a range of music as well as a wide range of characters each with their unique attributes. That said, for those wanting to watch the show, you’ll have to pick your favorite amongst 17 main characters, for whom the voice actors remain unchanged from the previous season that first aired in October 2017. The series will focus primarily on the progression of the bands rather than offering the normal dramatic twists of the slice of life genre.

Weeks before the premiere, the individual theme songs for the opening of the series were made available for online streaming. A great move from the franchise so to speak, as they can attract old and new fans with what’s at the core of the series: music. So for those who want a little sneak preview, there are 4 promotional videos by all four bands (SOARA, Growth, SolidS, and QUELL) to enjoy before the premiere in July. This series is in fact an idol genre anime, so for those of you who are fans of the genre, this one comes recommended. The art style and the character stories are a sell-in, however, from fans who do enjoy the series, the appeal is in the unique style of music emerging from each band. And like the first season, viewers will get to feel connected to each character by immersing themselves in the band members’ lives and behind-the-scenes moments before they hit the stage for that final performance.

Watching This: No one yet Excitement Level: Niche
TSUKIPRO THE ANIMATION 2 Promotional Videos ▼

Tsuki ga Michibiku Isekai Douchuu | 月が導く異世界道中
Tsukimichi: Moonlit Fantasy Top
https://tsukimichi.com/
Animation: C2C Premiere: July 7th, 2021
Genre: Fantasy, Slice-of-Life Airtime (GMT+9): Wednesdays 23:00
Episodes: 12 Station: Tokyo MX
Information Links: AniDB, ANN Encyclopedia, MyAnimeList, Syoboi, Wikipedia
Join the conversation @tsukimichi_PR or #ツキミチ

Preview by Pancakes

The saviour; the chosen one; the hero: whatever title is assigned to the person selected for the most sacred of duties, it’s a title born from necessary and time-honoured circumstance. When the hero is found he (or she) is provided with every assistance, all required material and personnel, and more cheers and prayers than the local monarchy could ever see. Unless you happen to be Misumi Makoto (Hanae Natsuki). Like every other ordinary high schooler, Makoto never envisioned being summoned to an alternate world, but he was, and circumstance identified him as this world’s hero – until his looks threw a wrench into matters. Deemed abhorrent by the world’s goddess, Makoto was stripped of title, banished to the wilderness, and left to die. Perish he would’ve too, if not for his immense powers he acquired in the process. Overpowered and alone, Makoto has no idea what he’ll do now, but keeping on living seems to be a pretty reasonable goal.

I’ll be frank, I’m really looking forward to this one. Although Tsukimichi is about as generic as you can get for an isekai these days (up to and including that premise twist), it comes with a good bit of self-awareness: Makoto is ridiculously strong, everyone quickly learns and appreciates he’s ridiculously strong, and every event follows through from this point with little resistance. It’s pretty much your bread and butter power fantasy, just streamlined and better managed to emphasize entertainment. Or in other words, a new and improved Tensura. While unwise to preemptively play up any great expectations here, given Log Horizon’s Ishihira Shinji is pulling director duty alongside a stacked cast, I would not anticipate this one falling flat on its face. Summer may already be overflowing with isekai, but if there’s any in particular to pay close attention to this season, Tsukimichi is the one.

Watching This: Pancakes, Zaiden Excitement Level: Average
Tsuki ga Michibiku Isekai Douchuu Promotional Videos ▼

Kobayashi-san Chi no Maidragon S | 小林さんちのメイドラゴンS
Miss Kobayashi’s Dragon Maid S Top
https://maidragon.jp/2nd/
Animation: KyoAni Premiere: July 7th, 2021
Genre: Comedy, Fantasy, Slice of Life Airtime (GMT+9): 24:00 at Wednesdays
Episodes: 12 Station: Tokyo MX
Information Links: AniDB, ANN Encyclopedia, MyAnimeList, Syoboi, Wikipedia
Join the conversation @maidragon_anime or #maidragon

Preview by Zaiden

Kobayashi’s (Tamura Mutsumi) your average office worker who’s pretty great at her job. Only the corporate grind has actually left her pretty lonely at home. That is until a young lady in a maid outfit named Tooru (Kuwahara Yuuki) insists on entering her life, claiming to be a homeless dragon that Kobayashi had promised to take in during a drunken escapade to some nearby mountain. Although reluctant at first, Kobayashi eventually warms up to presence of this young and eccentric maid dragon – discovering what it’s like to be lovingly welcomed home from a wearisome day of hard work. What’s more, she gets to meet other eccentric dragons disguised as humans along the way – including a kuudere child who Kobayashi essentially adopts, a stoic hard-ass who can’t handle spicy curry and a thicc seductress who toys around with some little boy from a wizard lineage.

Following the cowardly arson attack which tragically took the lives of Kyoto Animation staff, it was very noticeable that the studio took a few steps back from the anime industry – releasing films through the pipeline that had already been prepared prior to the incident but keeping away from seasonal anime production until now. Let’s talk about Ishihara Tatsuya, one of the prolific survivors from this disaster. As one of Kyoto Animation’s long-standing directing veterans who’s presided over the likes of my all time favourite Clannad After Story, Hibike! Euphonium and Chuunibyou, Ishihara picks up the reins from his deceased comrade, Takemoto Yasuhiro – who’d poured so much of his love and soul into the first season of Kobayashi’s Maid Dragon. They’d worked on Haruhi Suzumiya together. They had been dear friends who had known each other across two decades. It’s hard to imagine what these people are going through emotionally. I don’t know what kind of thoughts and feelings are going to come through to us. But I know those that remain will do justice to those have died and carry their memories with pride, honor and respect. Let it be known to the world. You can try to kill people. But it’s almost impossible to kill the idea and the principles that they stood for, as the legacy of fallen KyoAni staff live on through the survivors and new additions to the studio’s lineup in this second season adaptation of Kobayashi’s Maid Dragon.

Watching This: Choya, FJ Freeman, Pancakes, Zaiden Excitement Level: High
Kobayashi-san Chi no Maidragon S Promotional Videos ▼

Cheat Kusushi no Slow Life: Isekai ni Tsukurou Drugstore | チート薬師のスローライフ~異世界に作ろうドラッグストア~
Drugstore in Another World: The Slow Life of a Cheat Pharmacist Top
https://www.cheat-kusushi.jp/
Animation: EMT Squared Premiere: July 7th, 2021
Genre: Fantasy, Slice of Life Airtime (GMT+9): Wednesdays at 22:00
Episodes: 12 Station: Tokyo MX / BS11
Information Links: AniDB, ANN Encyclopedia, MyAnimeList, Syoboi, Wikipedia
Join the conversation @cheat_kusushi or #チート薬師

Preview by Choya

When work is all you know, sometimes you gotta work with what you’ve got. Kirio Reiji (Fukushima Jun) comes to learn this when his ordinary life as a corporate lackey is thrown through a tailspin as he’s suddenly transported to another world. With the skills he picked up from his work experience, he was able to create potions in this fantasy universe and make a decent living for himself. Enough so that he could afford to construct his own drug store to supply healing aides to the local warriors, elves, dragons, and other assorted fantasy creatures.

At one point, this wasn’t the only isekai about drug stores we were going to see for Summer 2021. Before the second drug store anime got delayed to October 2021, we would see this anime compete with Shin no Nakama ja Nai to Yuusha no Party wo Oidasareta node, Henkyou de Slow Life suru Koto ni Shimashita, an anime about someone who set up a drug store after being disgraced and banished from the hero’s party. But with that show out of the way for now, Cheat Kusushi no Slow Life can be judged by its own merits as a cozy slice-of-life rather than a direct competitor with another drug store isekai. If you are looking for a laid-back yet whimsical adventure, then Cheat Kusushi no Slow Life might give you the right dosage when it fills your prescription this Summer.

Watching This: Choya, Pancakes Excitement Level: Average
Cheat Kusushi no Slow Life: Isekai ni Tsukurou Drugstore Promotional Videos ▼

Shiroi Suna no Aquatope | 白い砂のアクアトープ
Aquatope of White Sand Top
https://aquatope-anime.com/
Animation: P.A. Works Premiere: July 8th, 2021
Genre: Drama, Fantasy, Slice of Life Airtime (GMT+9): 24:00 at Thursdays
Episodes: 24 Station: Tokyo MX
Information Links: AniDB, ANN Encyclopedia, MyAnimeList, Syoboi, Wikipedia
Join the conversation @aquatope_anime or #白い砂のアクアトープ

Preview by Zaiden

Shiroi Suna no Aquatope tells us about a beautiful encounter between two girls from very different worlds and how their lives cross over. 18-year-old girl Misakino Kukuru (Itou Miku) jubilantly pursues her humble dream of working at the local aquarium, while Miyazawa Fūka (Aida Rikako) runs away to Okinawa following the failure of her idol career. They strike up an unlikely friendship against the face of adversity, as while the aquarium offers Fūka solace from memories she wants to forget and serves as the focal point for Misakino’s future dreams, it has fallen up difficult times and faces the imminent threat of impending closure.

According to MAL News, Shiroi Suna no Aquatope is a P.A. Works original coming of age story which will seek to tell the story of two girls exploring their dreams and reality, loneliness and friends, bonds and conflicts. From the promotional art and trailers, this series immediately reminds me of Nagi no Asukara – the most beautiful seasonal TV anime I have ever seen. In conjunction with P.A. Works positive reputation for producing coming of age stories that carry some of the most depth in the anime industry, my hopes run extremely high for Shiroi Suna no Aquatope going into the summer season. When they’re firing on all cylinders, there’s just something about P.A. Works way of trying to convey their art which is unique to them, possessing a distinct beauty that cannot be described by words. Unfortunately, the studio’s really struggled to consistently produce excellent stories or characters since their hey days. And their visuals can sometimes leave much to be desired. However, the premise itself sounds simple enough and promising. Not to mention I trust Shinohara Toshiya to get the job done – as the person who directed Nagi no Asukara as well as Irozuku. I have no doubts he will impart their beautiful blends of fantasy and realism while breathing life into a cast of relatable and lovable characters.

Watching This: Choya, Zaiden Excitement Level: High
Shiroi Suna no Aquatope Promotional Videos ▼

Meikyuu Black Company | 迷宮ブラックカンパニ
The Dungeon of Black Company Top
https://meikyubc-anime.com/
Animation: Silver Link Premiere: July 9th, 2021
Genre: Comedy, Fantasy Airtime (GMT+9): Friday at 22:30
Episodes: 12 Station: Tokyo MX
Information Links: AniDB, ANN Encyclopedia, MyAnimeList, Syoboi, Wikipedia
Join the conversation @meikyubc_anime or #迷宮ブラックカンパニー

Preview by Pancakes

All work and no play makes one a dull boy. Well, at least if you’re Ninomiya Kinji (Konishi Katsuyuki). A self-professed layabout without a single shred of work ethic, Kinji’s only goal in life is to literally never work a day in his life. It’s a goal he even gets within reach of courtesy of several shrewd investments – but it’s one rudely upset after the guy winds up transported to another world. Waking up in a labyrinth-esque environment called the Dungeon, Kinji quickly finds himself at the mercy of its owner Leissach Mining Industries who insist on one thing and one thing only: work until you die. Long hours, minimal wages, harsh physical labour: it’s everything Kinji hoped to avoid, but it’s also something he’s not about to tolerate. Through craft and cunning he’ll find a way to climb the Dungeon’s social ladder and get his life of laziness back – one way or another.

Isekai and comedy are a little like peanut butter and jam. Either are fine by themselves, but the best always seems to result when they’re combined, and in this regard Meikyuu is no exception. Much as with genre mates Konosuba and Shinchou Yuusha comedy is the main driver here, with Kinji’s unscrupulous attitude clashing hard with the even more outrageous (and hilarious) personalities of his fellow workers and antagonistic corporate overseers both. Expect lots of ridiculous setups, even more ridiculous outcomes, and more tongue in cheek isekai trope and work life parody than you can shake a stick at. While Meikyuu’s success will inevitably boil down to one’s taste in humour, given Silver Link is producing alongside the fairly skilled Mieno Hitomi on script duty, I wouldn’t anticipate this one running off the rails all too easily. Meikyuu’s first few episodes will naturally tell the tale, but if you’re in need of some good alternate world laughs this season look no further than this.

Watching This: Pancakes Excitement Level: Limited
Meikyuu Black Company Promotional Videos ▼

D_Cide Traumerei The Animation | ディーサイドトロイメライ/トロメラTop
https://dctm-pj.com/
Animation: SANZIGEN Premiere:  Jul 10, 2021
Genre: Action, Adventure, Drama, Fantasy Airtime (GMT+9): Saturdays at 22:30
Episodes: 12 Station: Tokyo MX
Information Links: AniDB, ANN Encyclopedia, MyAnimeList, Syoboi, Wikipedia
Join the conversation @dctm_pj or #トロメラ

Preview by FJ Freeman

The story is set in Shibuya and centers around Ryuuhei Oda (Youhei Azakami) a pink-haired extroverted protagonist who so casually happens to be very good at kickboxing. One day he is bitten by a strange creature, giving him extrasensory powers, allowing him to peer into a parallel dimension, where the weird interacts with the real.

There’s more, as the anime is described as having a ‘Chutulu like mythos‘. I’m guessing that’s where the Kaiju vibes come in for this show, although not exactly Godzilla-like monsters since they are made from the absurd. Monsters peer into our world, and it’s up to our characters to ‘Form Change’ and beat the sentinels once and for all! This caught my eye at first because of the multimedia project aspect of this scheme. But the anime has also interested me. One can only wish for the series to garner enough popularity for the game to also be considered for an English release. D_Cide Traumerei looks like it’s going to be an interesting ride that I’m personally looking forward to!

Watching This: FJ Freeman Excitement Level: Niche
D_Cide Traumerei The Animation Promotional Videos ▼

Love Live! Superstar!! | ラブライブ! スーパースター!!Top
https://www.lovelive-anime.jp/yuigaoka/
Animation: Sunrise Beyond Premiere: July 11th, 2021
Genre: Music Airtime (GMT+9): Sundays at 19:00
Episodes: 12 Station: NHK-E TV
Information Links: AniDB, ANN Encyclopedia, MyAnimeList, Syoboi, Wikipedia
Join the conversation @LoveLive_staff or #lovelive

Preview by Miss Simplice

This July, School Idol Project presents its newest series Love Live! Superstar!! This multimedia franchise has a stellar reputation of bringing adorable, entertaining, and enchanting groups of girls together to seize people’s hearts. The trailer, with its soft and polished animation, lends to the high standard and quality of Sunrise’s renowned work (Cowboy Bebop, Mobile Suit Gundam 00, etc.) As with many of their previous series, alongside the characters comes pop idol groups and, this year, fans will be serenaded by none other than up-and-coming idol group “Liella,” which will star in the anime. Their first single “Hajimari wa Kimi no Sora” (The Start Is Your Sky) released in February as a promotional event for the anime’s release.

This new series will kick off with an entirely new scenario. The girls from Love Live! that many have followed fondly through their 3 years of high school have now graduated. School Idol Project maneuvers this empty space nicely and has chosen to introduce viewers to a new school and a cast of characters with new aspirations. At Yuigaoka Girls High School, a newly established high school in Tokyo, we find Keke (Liyuu), Ren (Aoyama Nagisa), Sumire (Payton Naomi), Kanon (Date Sayuri) and Chisato (Misaki Nako). Alongside their fellow cohort, they make up the new students of Yuigaoka High. The characters, much like their predecessors, will each play a distinct role in the development of this new dream team and it’s still to be determined whether or not we’ll be following their journey throughout their entire time at their new high school. One thing you can be sure of is that this summer will be filled with bright sunshiny moments for you and yours to enjoy if you choose to pick up this series.

Watching This: FJ Freeman Excitement Level: Established
Love Live! Superstar!! Promotional Videos ▼

Deatte 5 Byou de Battle | 出会って5秒でバトル
Battle in 5 Seconds After Meeting Top
https://dea5-anime.com//
Animation: SynergySP, Vega Entertainment Premiere: July 12th, 2021
Genre: Action, Supernatural Airtime (GMT+9): Mondays at 24:00
Episodes: 10 Station: TOKYO MX / BS11
Information Links: AniDB, ANN Encyclopedia, MyAnimeList, Syoboi, Wikipedia
Join the conversation @dea5_anime, #出会5, or #dea5

Preview by Princess Usagi

Have you ever found puzzles to be too easy and wished for a greater challenge to stimulate those brain cells? Puzzle Master Shiroyanagi Akira (Murase Ayumu) would say “yes” to both questions. He gets the opportunity to reach the next “level” when he and other people are kidnapped and given special powers that they must then use against each other. Will Akira thrive in the chaos, using the combination of his power and skills of logic to find the researchers and beat them at their own game?

In a joint venture, studios SynergySP (Cross Game and Major S4-6) and Vega Entertainment (Kaitou Joker S3-4, Babel Nisei (2001)) adapt Deatte 5-byou de Battle from an ongoing manga. Vega Entertainment hasn’t done anything terribly notable, but SynergySP with their experience in sports anime might be able to capture the suspense and strategy seen in a sports match and successfully apply it to the showdowns in Deatte 5-byou. The directors, Naitou Mea and Arai Nobuyoshi don’t have a long resume of previous shows, but Arai directed one episode of Kakegurui and a few episodes of Yuri!!!On Ice, so they might be able to incorporate into this adaptation some sports and gambling-like edge of your seat thrills-a necessary component to at least get me to return every week for mind-bending battles. It will be interesting to see how Akira with his excitement for intellectual stimulation interacts with the despair of other contestants, who presumably will be less happy than he is at being forced into real life brawler games. This could be a valuable chance for him to learn valuable life-lessons in friendship and teamwork which puzzles alone cannot teach him.

Watching This: Pancakes, Princess Usagi Excitement Level: Average
Deatte 5 Byou de Battle Promotional Videos ▼

Megami-ryou no Ryoubo-kun. | 女神寮の寮母くん.
Mother of the Goddess’ Dormitory Top
https://megamiryou.com/
Animation: Asread Premiere: July 14th, 2021
Genre: Slice of Life Airtime (GMT+9): Wednesdays at 23:30
Episodes: 12 Station: AT-X
Information Links: AniDB, ANN Encyclopedia, MyAnimeList, Syoboi, Wikipedia
Join the conversation @megamiryou or #女神寮

Preview by Choya

After a house fire, a young boy named Nagumi Koushi (Yamada Misuzu) is abandoned by his father, leaving him destitute as he wanders the streets. One day, a mysterious older woman finds him lying on the sidewalk and carries him to a women’s college dormitory. Although Koushi is given the opportunity to live in the dorm by becoming the housing’s “Dormitory Mother,” his new job title comes with a catch; he is tasked to oversee the rowdiest dorm on-campus. With its notoriously troublesome residents, Koushi has work cut out for him as he contends with their idiosyncrasies in a workplace that is wild, crazy, and a little bit ecchi.

If you’re familiar with Sunohara-sou no Kanrinin-san, you might have a general idea of what Megami-ryou no Ryoubo-kun is trying to go for. Mainly, that Koushi’s ordeal is merely a passenger for gratuitous ecchi relating to older women. Morally, this can be a problem considering that Koushi is targeted by these older women to take part in erotic scenarios that a young boy his age should definitely not be experiencing. But the main appeal of shows like this is predominantly the character designs for the older women, and the way that Megami-ryou no Ryoubo-kun is able to set itself apart is to embrace a brighter, cuter aesthetic. The residents of the women’s dorm are much more vibrant and less intimidating in comparison to the girls of Sunohara-sou, who definitely look far older than the protagonist. Whether the brighter character designs will help make this a fluffier series or if it’ll be as raunchy as its genre suggests will be up to the cards when the Summer season allows Megami-ryou no Ryoubo-kun through its residence’s dorms.

Watching This: No One Yet Excitement Level: Average
Megami-ryou no Ryoubo-kun. Promotional Videos ▼

Sonny Boy Top
https://anime.shochiku.co.jp/sonny-boy/
Animation: Madhouse Premiere: July 15th, 2021
Genre: Sci-Fi, Drama Airtime (GMT+9): Thursdays at 24:30
Episodes: 12 Station: Tokyo MX
Information Links: AniDB, ANN Encyclopedia, MyAnimeList, Syoboi, Wikipedia
Join the conversation @sonnyboy_anime or #SonnyBoy

Preview by Guardian Enzo

Sonny Boy is an original series, and that makes it a lottery ticket. But it’s a lottery ticket that’s probably my most anticipated series of the summer. We don’t get much from Madhouse these days, seemingly, especially an original. A-list director Natsume Shingo is doing double-duty with series composition (relatively rare for him), and noted illustrator Eguchi Hisashi has contributed some extremely engaging character designs.

Basically everything about Sonny Boy – visuals, premise – screams “90’s anime”. Whether you consider that a plus or minus depends on you, but that was my starter anime era so I’m intrigued. A classroom of 36 high school students drifts into another dimension, and the kids find themselves suddenly possessed of paranormal abilities. Since this is original it obviously could be a complete disaster, a masterpiece, or anything in-between. But it’s the only show on the summer schedule that suggests even the potential for greatness to me, and in a threadbare season like this that plunks it in the top spot.

Watching This: Guardian Enzo, FJ Freeman, Gabie, Pancakes, Princess Usagi Excitement Level: High
Sonny Boy Promotional Videos ▼

Night Head 2041: | ナイトヘッド2041Top
https://nighthead2041.jp/
Animation: Shirogumi Premiere: July 15th, 2021
Genre: Sci-Fi, Supernatural Airtime (GMT+9): Thursdays at 24:55
Episodes: N/A Station: N/A
Information Links: AniDB, ANN Encyclopedia, MyAnimeList, Wikipedia
Join the conversation @nighthead2041

Preview by Yaseen Hijazi

Night Head 2041 follows the story of the Kirihara brothers who possess supernatural powers and have escaped the scientific facility in which they were confined. At the same time, another brotherly duo from the National Security Force, the Kuroki brothers, are tasked with tracking them down. Animated by studio Shirogumi and directed by Takamitsu Hirakawa, this series is based on the original 1992 Japanese TV drama series written by George Iida, Night Head. This may not be the first anime adaptation of the series, but it is certainly the most visually stunning based on the released trailer footage.

This series promises a storyline full of mystery, brotherly bonds, and tons of action which are sure to be quite the spectacle. Upon viewing the trailer, I was immediately captivated by the life-like representation of Tokyo city, and while I am not the biggest fan of CGI in anime, I must make an exception for Night Head 2041, which has made me re-evaluate my opinion with its flawless animation. Superstar voice actors Daisuke Ono and Nobunaga Shimazaki are on the scene as the Kirihara brothers, alongside Takahiro Sakurai and Kensho Ono as the Kuroki brothers. Summer 2021 is sure to be a solid season of anime with the introduction of Night Head 2041, a Psychological Sci-Fi Drama that is expected to bring life to a long-lost hidden treasure of a series from the 90s.

Watching This: FJ Freeman, Pancakes Excitement Level: Average
Night Head 2041 Promotional Videos ▼

Heion Sedai no Idaten-tachi | 平穏世代の韋駄天達
Idaten Deities in the Peaceful Generation Top
https://idaten-anime.com/
Animation: MAPPA Premiere: July 22, 2021
Genre: Fantasy Airtime (GMT+9): Thursdays at 24:55
Episodes: N/A Station: Fuji TV
Information Links: AniDB, ANN Encyclopedia, MyAnimeList, Syoboi, Wikipedia
Join the conversation @idaten_anime or #平穏世代の韋駄天達

Preview by FJ Freeman

This originally garnered my attention solely for the fact that it’s animated by MAPPA. And they’ve never disappointed me in the action department, so you could say I’m a little bit biased towards the studio.

This looks like a shonen battle anime just from the premise. 800 years ago, there was a giant catastrophe, demons managed to almost take over the world, gods appeared to save humanity, entities called “Idaten” fought against the demons and sealed them away. Now, years later, they live peaceful lives, but the demons are making a comeback about destroying their way of life! Following Hayato (Romi Park) a foul-mouthed deity who fights against several demons and overcomes fearsome challenges!

Battle shonen manga vibes, animated by MAPPA, I’m expecting some high-action sakuga animation here. The art style already looks unique and interesting, with vibrant, flat watercolors and neons. 

Watching This: Choya, FJ Freeman, Pancakes, Princess Usagi Excitement Level: Average
Heion Sedai no Idaten-tachi Promotional Videos ▼

Magia Record: Mahou Shoujo Madoka Magica Gaiden 2nd Season | マギアレコード 魔法少女まどか☆マギカ外伝 2nd Season
Magia Record: Puella Magi Madoka Magica Side Story 2nd SeasonTop
https://anime.magireco.com/
Animation: Shaft Premiere: July 31st, 2021
Genre: Psychological Airtime (GMT+9): Saturdays at 24:00
Episodes: 1 cour Station: Tokyo MX
Information Links: AniDB, ANN Encyclopedia, MyAnimeList, Syoboi, Wikipedia
Join the conversation @magireco or #マギレコ

Preview by Zephyr

A Madoka Magica spin-off series, Magia Record focuses on a new protagonist in Tamaki Iroha (Asakura Momo) and her search for Ui, her missing sister. Iroha’s search takes her to Kamihama City, where strange rumors have become commonplace and an abnormal amount of witches have begun to gather. As she receives a less than welcoming reception from resident magical girl Nanami Yachiyo (Amamiya Sora), the two cross paths with Kaname Madoka (Yuuki Aoi), who has come to the city looking for her friend Homura. Putting aside their differences, the group begins to investigate the many rumors surrounding the city while more magical girls arrive, drawn by the influx of witches and a rumored promise: “Come to Kamihama City, where magical girls can be saved.” The first season focused on the investigation of various rumors around Kamihama City and their link to an organization called the Wings of Magius, which were the focus of the mobile game’s (the source material) first arc. The second season will aim to conclude the arc, detailing the Wings of Magius’ system for “liberating magical girls” while showcasing the struggles of various Kamihama magical girls as they consider whether to accept the system or reject it for an uncertain future.

While I didn’t end up watching the first season myself, the impressions I got from viewers painted Magia Record as a mixed bag that had its moments, but suffered from pacing issues and didn’t come close to its original predecessor. While it was saddening to see that the adaptation didn’t meet the expectations of many, one thing I can say for sure is this: Magia Record’s second season will undoubtedly be an improvement over its first. All the series’ best moments are in the second half of the Magius arc and it was an absolute blast going through that portion of the story while playing the mobile game. The ending in particular gave me chills with its homage to the original while also setting up the beginnings of another arc—one which I’m admittedly still salty about not being able to experience due to the closure of the game’s North American servers. But I digress. If you’ve gone through the first season and are on the fence about the second, don’t be. It gets better from here.

Watching This: Pancakes Excitement Level: Optimistic
Jahy-sama wa Kujikenai! | ジャヒー様はくじけない!
The Great Jahy Will Not Be Defeated! Top
https://jahysama-anime.com/
Animation: Silver Link Premiere: July 31st, 2021
Genre: Comedy, Supernatural, Fantasy Airtime (GMT+9): Saturdays at 26:00
Episodes: 2 cour Station: ABC TV
Information Links: AniDB, ANN Encyclopedia, MyAnimeList, Syoboi, Wikipedia
Join the conversation @jahysama_anime or #ジャヒー様はくじけない

Preview by Choya

Jahy (Oozora Naomi) used to be revered as the second greatest authority to the Demon Realm. As the Demon King’s aide, she ruled her subjects with an iron fist. But when a magical girl destroys the Demon Realm by shattering the mystic gem in their possession, Jahy is stranded in the human world. With her powers lost and her body shrunken down to a child-like form, she’ll need to gather mystic gems to restore the realm and regain her normal body. The only catch is that she’ll have to adjust to ordinary life on Earth in the process, forcing her to tackle everyday problems she’s never experienced. Although she now has the daunting task of working herself to the bone to pay off rent she can barely afford, Jahy-sama will not be discouraged by the hardships she’ll face along the way as she aims to restore her honor.

You might recognize this cute demon girl from the one manga frame floating around the internet where she slams an empty beer mug as she tearfully claims to have done her best. Much like this heavily-circulated excerpt, Jahy-sama wa Kujikenai! is an eccentric comedy about the relatable foibles of trying to survive in contemporary society. However, there is also the added caveat of involving a girl from the demon realm who has to contend with some of the evils that the people on Earth are forced to put up with on a regular basis. Will she be able to restore her original form and make her way back home, or will she have a harder time contending with the trials of the average workday? Find out when Jahy-sama wa Kujikenai! debuts in the Summer season.

Watching This: No One Yet Excitement Level: Average
Kaizoku Oujo | 海賊王女
Fena: Pirate Princess Top
https://fena-pirate-princess.com/
Animation: Production I.G Premiere: Summer 2021
Genre: Action, Adventure Airtime (GMT+9): TBA
Episodes: 12 Station: Crunchyroll
Information Links: AniDB, ANN Encyclopedia, MyAnimeList, Syoboi, Wikipedia
Join the conversation: @fena_pirate or #海賊王女

Preview by FJ Freeman

The story follows Fena Houtman, (Seto Asami) an orphan girl who has been raised to know no hope other than becoming property of others, her only fate is to be used and discarded by soldiers from the British Empire. 

But she holds power within her and is more than just another powerless orphan. She has a mysterious past that comes knocking at her door one day. She breaks from the chains of oppression and now has a new goal. To find a place where she can truly belong and be herself, and find the mysterious purpose behind a special keyword: ‘Eden’. The adventure of a lifetime ensues as she and her crew of misfits and dubious allies will have as they search for their one true goal! 

Kaizoku Oujo might surprise us in unexpected ways because Fena might do things differently and resolve conflicts in her own unique ways. She might hold the cards of empathy. It stands to look interesting as I’m hoping the way things will play out, will be substantially different from the conventional formula. [Adult Swim] is involved in this so expect some high octane action, with some blood and gore galore! 

Editor’s Note: Kaizoku Oujo is only set to premiere this season via Crunchyroll and [Adult Swim]. Japanese TV premiere is set for Fall 2021.

Watching This: FJ Freeman, Zaiden Excitement Level: Optimistic
Kaizoku Oujo Promotional Videos ▼


Short Series List

 

Technical Note: As of the Winter 2016 Preview onward, short one-cour series that are being broadcast with irregular duration times (under the 24 minute per episode norm) have been separated from the main preview into their own section. This is to account for the increasing number of short series and to allow for ease of viewing for those who have a preference for one type of series over another. While the list should be complete, there are short series that have been announced very close to the start of a season, in which case they may not have made it onto the list. Unfortunately given Passerby’s current haitus, shorts do not come with the accompanying haiku previews. Real life do be like that sometimes.

Air Date Title
07/?? Assault Lily: Fruits | アサルトリリィ ふるーつ
AniDB, ANN Encyclopedia, MyAnimeList, Wikipedia
07/12 Yami Shibai 9 | 闇芝居 9
https://www.tv-tokyo.co.jp/anime/yamishibai9/
AniDB, ANN Encyclopedia, MyAnimeList, Wikipedia
05/28 Artiswitch | Artiswitch
http://artiswitch.com/
AniDB, ANN Encyclopedia, MyAnimeList

OVA / Movie


 

Technical Note: OVAs are sorted by the date they are released. For series that have multiple episodes coming out over the course of the season, please refer to the Notes column for additional dates. More information on each OVA can be found on their respective websites, including promotional videos in some cases. Movie premiere dates are not included since they don’t mean a whole lot to viewers outside of Japan. For the most up to date North American theatrical release schedule, please visit Fathom Events or Funimation Films. BD/DVD movie releases are included in this list. This list is likely incomplete and will be updated as more titles surface (usually by the next season’s preview). If you notice anything missing or incorrect, please feel free to comment below or send me a quick tweet/DM @ZephyrRC.

Release Date Title Notes
06/02 Fate/Grand Carnival
https://anime.fate-go.jp/fgc/
OVA 3 of 4.
06/04 Poketoon (Yume no Tsubomi) | ユメノツボミ
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rKSDGz9iAgU
Episode 1 of 3.
06/16 Demon Slayer -Kimetsu no Yaiba- The Movie: Mugen Train
劇場版 鬼滅の刃 無限列車編
https://kimetsu.com/anime/movie/mugenressyahen/
BD/DVD Release.
06/17 Shuumatsu no Walkure | 終末のワルキューレ
https://www.netflix.com/title/81281579
ENG: Record of Ragnarok.
Netflix Release.
06/30 Strike the Blood IV | ストライク・ザ・ブラッド IV
http://www.strike-the-blood.com/fourth/index.html
OVA 11 of 12.
June 2021 Yoshimaho: Yoshi Yoshi Magic | よしまほ
https://yoshimaho.com/
YouTube Release.
07/16 Obey Me!
https://shallwedate.jp/obeyme/
08/04 Gintama: The Final | 銀魂 THE FINAL
https://www.tv-tokyo.co.jp/anime/gintama/
BD/DVD Release.
08/13 Evangelion: 3.0+1.0 Thrice Upon a Time | シン・エヴァンゲリオン劇場版:||
https://www.evangelion.co.jp/final.html
Amazon Prime Global Release.
08/18 ARIA The CREPUSCOLO
https://ariacompany.net/
BD/DVD Release.
08/18 Tonikaku Kawaii OVA | トニカクカワイイ OVA
http://tonikawa.com/
08/25 Josee, the Tiger and the Fish | ジョゼと虎と魚たち
https://joseetora.jp/
BD/DVD Release.
09/09 Pokémon Evolutions
https://www.pokemon.com/us/pokemon-news/watch-the-trailer-for-pokemon-evolutions-a-new-animated-series/
Global Pokemon TV and Pokemon YouTube Channel Release.
09/15 Alice Gear Aegis: Doki! Actress Darake no Mermaid Grand Prix
アリス・ギア・アイギス ~ドキッ!アクトレスだらけのマーメイドグランプリ
https://colopl.co.jp/alicegearaegis/lp/ova/
09/21 Mahou Tsukai no Yome: Nishi no Shonen to Seiran no Kishi
The Ancient Magus’ Bride OVA | 法使いの嫁 西の少年と青嵐の騎士
https://magus-bride.jp/wildhunt/
OVA Episode 1 of 3.
09/28 Princess Principal: Crown Handler Chapter 1
プリンセス・プリンシパル Crown Handler
https://pripri-anime.jp/
Chapter 1 of 6.
BD/DVD Release.
09/22 Star Wars: Visions | スター・ウォーズ:ビジョンズ
https://disneyplus.disney.co.jp/program/star-wars-visions.html
Disney+
09/30 Otome Game no Hametsu Flag shika Nai Akuyaku Reijou ni Tensei shiteshimatta… OVA
My Next Life as a Villainess: All Routes Lead to Doom!
乙女ゲームの破滅フラグしかない悪役令嬢に転生してしまった… OVA
https://hamehura-anime.com/news/420/
Bundled w/ LE manga Vol. 7.
09/30 Hanma Baki: Son of Ogre | 範馬刃牙 SON OF OGRE
https://baki-anime.jp/
Netflix Release.

Overall Impressions


 

Summer has traditionally been a weak season for anime and this one certainly won’t be breaking the trend. While there’s a lot of series I’m personally interested in, there’s no denying some may find less to enjoy given the heavy isekai presence, and lots of middling isekai at that. The strength of this season’s heavy hitters – almost universally sequels (where have we heard that before?) – will undeniably set the tone of things, and though that could be a turn-off depending on taste, I have my hopes up given just what’s on tap. The greatest anime often wind up being the greatest of surprises after all, and if there’s one thing this summer has in excess it’s lots of potential surprises. How many of these shows reach their full potential will be fun to see – alongside how well they all match up to our Excitement Levels!

That’s right, we’ll be continuing with our enshrined Excitement Levels, which includes four main levels plus Established for special cases. Our goal is to make it easier to use the top and bottom of the scale, and to take away the incentive to hedge our bets—after all, we’re not saying these shows will be good or bad, we’re just saying how excited we are. Exciting things can be flawed, and unambitious things can be fun! Hopefully this guide will help those of you with limited time understand which shows to try first, based on our preliminary examination of each show’s staff, seiyuu, and source material. Failing that, it’ll give you another reason to laugh when we get hyped up about a show that ends up failing down the stretch.

As usual, these levels were arrived at by our totally not shady “Excitement Council” of Zephyr, Guardian Enzo, and Zaiden. While we’ve gone to great lengths to consider multiple viewpoints and not get swept away by our own proclivities, these aren’t predictions, and shouldn’t be taken as such. Take these with the appropriate amount of Himalayan pink salt.

Note: Lists are sorted in alphabetical order.

 

The Rundown:

High excitement shows are the ones we’re truly pumped about. These are the shows we want to watch the most, and which we think have a good chance of being exemplars of their kind — or at least come close. Shows in this category might be sequels to excellent anime, adaptations of highly regarded source material, projects with stellar pedigrees, or even originals that just light up our minds. They don’t have to be perfect, but they do have to feel like something special. If you consider yourself a casual fan who only gets your toes wet every season, then these are the shows we feel you should most keep an eye on.

Optimistic shows are ones that we’re hopeful will be really good, and which we have good reasons to think they might be. The underpinnings of these are generally strong, with a lot to suggest in each of them, but with one or two elements that give us pause and keep our enthusiasm from boiling over. They still have most of the makings of very strong series, though, and many stellar anime will arise from this category. If you’ve exhausted all the High shows, or want to delve deeper into your favored genres, check out these as well.

Average excitement shows look middle-of-the-road to us. They could be good or they could be bad, but they don’t provide much immediate indication that they’ll be amazing in retrospect. This is often the case with shows that are firmly ensconced in their genres’ tropes, or which overly rely on some of anime’s overused plot devices. It can also apply to shows that seem deeply flawed, with elements that could make them amazing, but with so many potential possibilites that we’re not getting hyped up. However, in many of our experiences these shows still provide a great deal of entertainment, and may turn out a lot better than they appear. Personal taste comes heavily into play, so your mileage will vary.

Limited excitement shows are ones that we simply aren’t all that excited about. They often don’t seem to be striving for much, and choose to focus on more frivolous aspects such as senseless humor and fanservice. Other times they’re doing the same thing we’ve seen a thousand times, with few mitigating signs that they’ll rise above their tropes. That doesn’t mean they’re the bottom of the barrel and shouldn’t get any consideration, but simply that they’re not doing a lot to suggest themselves. Keep in mind what kind of show they are, though, and you might find something you enjoy amid this cohort.

Niche shows break away from the norm by being slower-paced, extremely dark/grotesque, or even controversial. In most cases these shows are oriented towards older audiences or those who feel that anime has become far too repetitive and want something different. Shows of this category tend to be highly under-appreciated, but can turn out to be hidden gems for that very reason. Includes some works oriented toward younger audiences.

Established shows are any series that has aired for more than 40 episodes or has been previewed three or more times. This can include anything from never-ending shounen and decade-spanning dramas to that quirky comedy that keeps getting renewed season after season. The only commonality is that they’ve aired a lot of episodes, and that they’re the kind of show that most viewers will want to catch up on all the previous content before watching the new. Spin-offs and remakes don’t automatically qualify, since they’re considered new series.

47 Comments

  1. After the horror that was the Pandora Hearts anime adapation, I wasn’t sure I wanted a Vanitas anime. But I can’t help it – I’m so excited for it irregardless. I just hope my high hopes won’t betray me.

    Noe’s voice is a bit different from what I expected, but I can get into it. Hanae sounds like he could get into the crazy antics Vanitas gets up to, and I’m very much looking forward to it. And Kajiura Yuki’s music, the only saving grace of the Pandora Heart anime (author’s other work), is back again! I pray this time that the amazing art will be translated to the big screen beautifully.

    ZJ
  2. While spring season had 3 big hitters that for me could all compete for anime of the year (86, Vivy and To Your Eternity), I would be happy if at least one summer show does as well as those.
    Vanitas seems to get a lot of praise, so possibly that one.
    Personally, there should be enough titles for me to enjoy, bur I‘m mostly looking forward to the Maid Dragon and Tensura sequels. From reading this preview post, it sounds like unlike the 1st cour, the 2nd one of Tensura S2 will be covered here. 🙂
    Also, hopefully Otome Game 2nd season will be a bit better paced than the 2nd half of season 1.

    boingman
  3. What a tasteless preview on Kanojo mo Kanojo I´ve had the displeasure to read.

    It is actually a gag comedy, from the same author as Mangaka-san to Assistant and the more recent Aho Girl so those who know those series should have an idea of the kind of tone it will have. That synopsis makes it sound like some kind of DomeKano with the new iteration of Itou Makoto as its protagonist.

    Once again, just like in the KoiKimo write-up, it reeks of moral bias and there is no visible attempt to portray what the series tries to convey which definitely isn´t drama.

    If there is any suspension of disbelief to be had it´s about how idiotic the main cast´s behaviour usually is. It´s a basically a simple love comedy with ridiculous humor and an author that´s genre savvy enough to make stuff interesting to read and not taking his own work that seriously. Definitely not a future classic showcasing morally unethical people.

    vand
    1. defo, came across as bizarrely judgemental.

      thanks for your comment, I was expecting the second coming of school days/kuzu no honkai or the like after reading that summary.

      i appreciate the writers have personal opinions but at least try to convey a balanced perspective, its actually quite misleading for the reader when not done.

      grayne
  4. For some reason I had it in my mind that Mushoku Tensei’s 2nd cour was this season.
    That’s a bummer.

    But Fumetsu is still running and more Mahouka is good. Magia Record is decent, Sonny Boy seems mighty interesting and Getter Robo Arc scratches a mecha itch. Although I’m not sold on the 3D animation yet.

    Sadly, 3D animation is probably how mecha anime is going to mostly exist in the future. If at all.

    JHNSeph
    1. Mushoku Tensei actually was supposed to be this season, but it was postponed last month unfortunately.

      Not sure on the 3D CGI for mecha series though, smaller productions will certainly turn towards it for cost savings, but any blockbuster productions like Gundam are going to stick with 2D in some capacity given how better it looks.

  5. Tensei Shitara Slime Datta Ken :: the diaries were great and I looked forward to each episode.

    However, the 1st season of part 2 was slow and dragged out with quite a bit of
    story rehash — I’m hoping the same synergy that went into the diaries will be
    present in part 2.

    Here’s hoping….

    mac65
  6. Four new anime to try out this season (Tantei wa Mou, Shindeiru; Shiroi Suna no Aquatope; Megami-ryou no Ryoubo-kun; Jahy-sama wa Kujikenai!), and Kobayashi-san Chi no Maidragon S, that will be so sad and bitter-sweet to watch…

    Jijii ;-)
  7. Thank you for preview! Good job as always. I was patiently waiting and tried to avoid other previews to not spoil myself lol.
    I only noticed small typo with vanitas – most common name is used Vanitas no Carte and video for D_Cide Traumerei The Animation doesn’t load.
    I counted 19 shows that i might be interested in, however i suspect many black horses and possibly disappointments this season, so im trying to keep my expectation low.
    I’m mostly waiting for Vanitas, since im big fan of Pandora Hearts (same author) and also read manga, so I hope they wont ruin it. I’m a bit worried, since manga is only 9 volumes long and without spoiling – there are more to cover than its been covered. Hopefully they wont end it with anime-ending like Pandora…

    Shirocat
    1. 100-man never really clicked for me and I’m not sure why. The story is interesting enough isekai-wise and actually has a half-decent lead (as far as they go for the genre), but the rushing and production didn’t help things I think.

      1. It’s because the start is so rushed. Even in the manga, you’re a couple arcs into the “main” plot before it’s really clear that the main theme is about the MC’s pseudo-ubermensch outlook.

        He’s the traditional jaded internet era cynic, only with the recklessness and competence to back up some really messed up statements with action. He’s proven wrong about his views again and again, but the result is still a net profit to humanity since he still MADE decisions and acted to achieve goals.

        The mechanics are well done and the characters are pretty genre-savvy, it’s just that the start isn’t really clear about what story it’s trying to tell, made worse with anime being a higher difficulty curve on presentation.

        cryum
  8. Definitely planning on watching Season 2 of Bakarina (I am not pronouncing that X), Uramichi-Oniisan, and Fena: Pirate Princess. I’d suggest adding [adult swim] to the stations for the latter or at least saying that they will be airing it too and it won’t just be Crunchyroll-exclusive, so people don’t leap to the conclusion that they won’t be airing their own dang co-production.

    PokeNirvash
  9. Thank you very much for the preview.

    Lots of isekai as usual, and I’ll probably end up watching most of them. orz
    Random thoughts :

    Bokutachi Remake. Completely new to me. Hoping it’d something on the same wavelength to Shirobako as workplace SOL.

    Hamefura. Previous season starts fun, but few last episodes felt weak, borderline repetitive with how the characters keep reminiscing about Cat’s being clumsy-but-kind. Hoping for more variety this season.

    Maidragon. Ah yes, Kanna-chan. *wee-woo-wee-woo*

    lqvr
  10. Sequels/Continuations
    Higurashi no Naku Koro ni Sotsu
    Hamefura S2
    Magia Record S2
    Love Live Superstar
    Maid Dragon S2

    Definitely watching
    Jahy-sama wa Kujikenai

    Interested
    Shiroi Suna no Aquatope
    Megami-ryou no Ryoubo-kun
    Tantei wa Mou Shindeiru

    Give it an episode
    Kanojo mo Kanojo
    Bokutachi no Remake
    Cheat Kusushi no Slow Life

    Will probably watch Scarlet Nexus as well depending on whenever I pick the game up

    Arche
  11. Wow… so much Isekai, but thanks to your great Summer preview a lot of them look really good.
    Along with Otome Game… 2nd Season, Bokutachi no Remake sounds interesting (hope it’s not just a harem series).
    I’ve been eyeing Megaton-kyuu Musashi for a change of pace, and RE-MAIN since seeing the preview.
    Then there’s Vanitas no Karte (why… it’s Vampires, of course… Hopefully, it won’t suck… ^_^).
    As always… thanks again for your previews.

    Anifani
  12. “the perspective change from playing as the characters to watching them as viewers will likely detract from the experience as well.” That change may be mandatory for Scarlet Nexus completionists, as there’s this side quest in the game asking for some keywords that will only be provided via the TV show. Bold move I have to say.

  13. I wonder which franchise gets milked more, Higurashi or Fate/?? Not that I even give a toss about either.

    … and there’s no way they’ll do TsukiMichi any justice with 12 eps.

    Doesn’t look like there’s any equivalent of Odd Taxi or Godzilla SP. I’ll take my chances with that cat anime and the Pirate Princess one. Oh, and the Slime one, provided it continues the main story unlike the last one which baited me with the title and switched up to content to some unfunny slice of life drivel.

    Matti
  14. I love reading Genjitsu Shugi Yuusha no Oukoku Saikenki, it brought me back to the old academia days where we discussed the theories of Machiavelli’s The Prince. Too bad the translations for the novel series died. So I am a bit looking forward to the adaptation of this… Kobayashi-san Chi no Maidragon S is a welcome one. Speaking about KyoAni, I have already watched the Violet Evergarden Movie in theaters. I may follow Mahouka Koukou no Yuutousei since I love the source materials and speaking about source materials… I didn’t like Seirei Gensouki. Meikyuu Black Co poster kinda reminds me of Gurren Lagann. Of course I need to finish part one, so
    Tensei Shitara Slime Datta Ken 2nd Season Part 2 is on the dock.

    Bakanekokun
  15. I have a bad case of isekai fatigue – Tensei Shitara and Hamefura are all I can take this season without developing a rash. That leaves surprisingly little choice. I’ll watch Shinigami Bocchan and Jahy-sama because I read manga and it’s fun. I’ll also check that aquarium anime. And that’s pretty much all.

    puppygod
  16. Whoever made the Getter Robo Arc writeup needs to be hit with a Getter Tomahawk at the very least.
    Getter Robo predates Gundam by five years, and has a completely different tone and feel.

    Using “Gundam-like” to describe Getter is completely tone-deaf on the part of the writer.

    Magnus Tancred
  17. I enjoy the light novels for Realist Hero and Spirit Chronicles. I suspect that the anime adaptation of Realist Hero will be better than Spirit Chronicles because Realist Hero is more front-loaded with action than Spirit Chronicles. Both have a much more encompassing plot in the background with the world dramatically opening up much later in the story than is likely to be adapted.

    SadOldGuy
  18. One trope that is very different for Spirit Chronicles, at least for the novels, is that every time the protagonist Rio does something extraordinary, the political fallout requires meeting after meeting as the various nobles try to entice Rio to work for them or to get rid of him because he threatens their place. It weirdly works in the light novels but who knows how this will translate to anime.

    SadOldGuy
  19. really looking forward to ‘moonled journey’. bit suprised my the muted response to it here, I can say from reading the source material that though it sounds generic, the execution, and characters in particular, are excellent – really elevate it above over typical isekai fodder.

    hoping the adapting studio can do it justice.

    lebleu
  20. “♪ Dame da ne
    Dame yo, dame na no yo
    Anta ga suki de
    Suki sugite
    Dore dake
    Tsuyoi osake demo
    Yugamanai
    Omoide ga
    Baka mitai…
    ♬”

    – Thank you for pulling me into the Hololive rabbit hole, along with Gigguk/Garnt.
    – Thank you for bridging the gap between Japanese and overseas VTuber fans.
    – Thank you for being a pillar of support, a fountain of inspiration, and a good friend to your fellow Hololive idols.
    – Thank you for being a pioneer for the Hololive EN branch, along with Akai Haato/Haachama.
    – Thank you for teaching Houshou Marine her now-famous English catchphrase, “I’m horny!” :^)
    – Thank you for teaching me that DeepL is the (relatively) better online translator for EN to JP, and vice-versa.
    – Thank you for bringing smiles, laughs, and occasional wise words to viewers during one of the worst pandemics in recent memory.
    – Thank you for showing stoic resilience in the face of harassment by misguided ultranationalists and antis with nothing better to do.
    – Thank you for steadfastly espousing a welcoming fan community and the idea of “no hate” despite the aforementioned harassment.

    VTuber. Entertainer. Idol. Legend of Legend. Arigathank you for everything, Kiryu Coco-kaichou. May you be blessed with clear skies and fair winds. 07

    With that foreword/testimonial done, (and with some help from Livechart and Mr. Bizinger’s Summer 2021 preview) here’s my picks for the season:

    Will definitely watch / Obligatory sequel watch:

    Kobayashi-san Chi no Maid Dragon S“Welcome back, Kyoto Animation. Welcome back.”
    While this reunion feels a bit bittersweet since it’s been two years since the dastardly arson attack on Kyoto Animation’s Studio 1, I’ve yet to watch the Violet Evergarden movies (the side-story one and the actual movie), and because seeing Tohru again reminded me of Coco’s graduation and final live (see above), it’s still a welcome return for the anime/manga series that started the whole (thicc) dragon girl craze. “Live strong!” (As the good Kaichou would say.)

    Magia Record: Mahou Shoujo Madoka★Magica Gaiden 2nd Season – NGL, it does feel jarring to see a second season of Magia Record premiering after the closure of the NA-EN servers of the game in October 30 last year (didn’t help matters that the EN side apparently rushed through event after event with little to no breaks in the hope that it could catch up to the JP server, burning out a lot of players as a result). That aside, the previous season of Magia Record did leave anime-only viewers with one hell of a cliffhanger, and I hope the second season would do justice to the rest of the game’s story (or at least the second half of the Magius Arc) in anime form. (I feel the need for an additional refresher, though.)

    Will try out (three-episode rule) / Last-minute pickups:

    Jahy-sama wa Kujikenai! – Ah yes, genderbent Maou Sadao (Hataraku Maou-sama, which is finally getting a second season after eight long years). Tangent aside, ’tis hilarious to see Naomi Oozora once again playing a devil (*cue Satania evil laugh*), but what really piqued my interest is reading the news that a certain duck, onion maid, and seal (Hololive VTubers Oozora Subaru, Minato Aqua and Momosuzu Nene, respectively) will be singing the anime’s ending song. (That DOES put a smile on my face.)

    Kaizoku Oujo – Time to don the eyepatch and tricorne hat, and cue Houshou Marine’s “Ahoy!” (Or “He’s a Pirate” from Pirates of the Caribbean.) Senchou and other pirate references aside, seeing the trailer made me realize this series is inspired by period pirate fiction and mixes it with distinctly Japanese elements. (Wokou pirates?) Can Production I.G. build an interesting enough world and make an interesting enough story with those combined elements? Guess we’ll see.

    Shiroi Suna no Aquatope – This anime had me at “P.A. Works” and “coming-of-age story.” I’m probably expecting a lot after Hanasaku Iroha, but I hope Shiroi Suna no Aquatope comes close. Also, having Itou Miku (Nakano Miku from Go-Toubun no Hanayome) and Aida Rikako (Sakurauchi Riko from Love Live! Sunshine!!) as the main characters is also a plus. And speaking of Love Live

    Love Live! Superstar!!“♪ They don’t stop coming and they don’t stop coming… ♬” (*Ad infinitum*) Jeez, while waiting for a second season(?) of Love Live! Nijigasaki Gakuen School Idol Dōkōkai and right on the heels of Zombie Land Saga Revenge, here comes another new Love Live series ready to bring fans back into “Idol Hell”. Unfortunately, being in the VTuber rabbit hole at the moment is like being in the Eagles’ titular “Hotel California”: “♪ I can check out anytime I like, but I can never leave (*guitar solo*) ♬…” Not to mention there’s still this degree of attachment to µ’s (+ A-RISE), Aqours (+ Saint Snow) and the Nijigasaki School Idol Club, so…some real tough acts to follow. I’ll be glad to be proven wrong on that, though.

    Megami-ryou no Ryoubo-kun. – There’s only one phrase that comes to mind after reading the synopsis: “Ara ara…” Welp, I’ve seen enough onee-san x shota off-brand to know where that usually goes. (*Sees Chiaki Takahashi’s name in the cast*) YA BE.

    Shorts / OVAs / Movies:

    Fate/Grand Carnival – Ah yes, Carnival Phantasm, but now with F/GO characters and gacha jokes! Saw the new rendition of “Super Affection” and it was just as fun as the original. Same goes for the actual episode and I’m looking forward to the rest as they come out.

    While chuckling at Joey’s increasing exasperation seeing isekai show after isekai show for this season, I did manage to gravitate toward some potential new gems amidst the isekai glut and sequels. After dropping some shows last season, anything that I might drop midway through this season is no longer on the lists, though it’s still possible to hear some good stuff about a show I’m not watching and then see for myself mid-season (if time permits). Not sure if I’ll still bother to continue Nagatoro-san (more amounts of cringe than Watamote) or binging the other anime I dropped last season, though (to say nothing of non-anime stuff I haven’t got around to watching yet).

    There may be better reference sites now for upcoming seasons, but I still make it a point to wait for the RC crew’s impressions. As always, thanks for the previews.

    Still a terrible day for rain… (And literally, at the time I was watching that last live. As of this post, archive’s still up if you want to take a look.)

    Incognito
  21. Not sure yet what I’ll be watching among the new shows but of the various sequels, I will take a look at 100-man. I thought that the first season turned into something interesting, despite being kind of weak in many respects. That seems to be a recent trend in isekai shows — be mostly dumb and lazy but focus on a few key areas to try and make a story that stands out.

    I’ll also watch Mahouka as it’s mindless fun and easy to watch. And of the new shows, I guess I’ll give Kanojos a watch after reading the comment thread above, as I quite enjoyed Assistant-san.

    As always, thanks to the staff for putting this together.

    Mockman
  22. @Scarlet Nexus

    I admit, this Anime got my Attention because of the Game. But the First Episode is good build not to flashy and got me also curious for more.

    Episode 1 of 3 Passed

    Worldwidedepp
  23. @Mahouka Koukou no Yuutousei

    I must admit, that this Anime has a heavy Start for me. Perhaps i watching here from the Side of the first 3 Episodes how this is animated. Because the Big “Magic Jesus!” is still in my head and it’s like One Punch at the beginning. there was no enemies, there was only Prey for him (Oni-sama).. And i wonder in how he is affecting this Anime. So that’s why i need the 3 Episodes for it

    Worldwidedepp
  24. @Tsuki ga Michibiku Isekai Douchuu

    I saw the first Episode, the Humor is good. not to edgy and also not to “low”. But i need more Episodes to see how this goes. As if the Studio just want to surf the Isekai Anime Wave that is rolling right now. But, well.. something is missing how serious or not serious they want to ride it

    in sort, i am uncertain right now and need more visual proof where this is going

    Worldwidedepp
      1. It’ll be interesting to see what happens with Pirate princess as the earliest right now that it could premier on Adult Swim is 8/14. Every week that goes by, I’m thinking more and more than it won’t premiere in the west before it premieres in Japan.

        hjerry
      2. I’ve been periodically checking Crunchyroll and Adult Swim and there’s been no indication of postponement. Likely case I think is a premiere sometime in August or September since Adult Swim’s July schedule has already been confirmed.

        1. Thing is, you’d think that if they weren’t delaying it, and already had a premiere date in mind, that they’d have released that by now, and would be hyping the hell out of it. The fact that there’s still no word on its premiere date, makes me doubt that it’s premiering anytime soon, at least not in August.
          It also could be that those are the dates that they want, but they genuinely don’t know, as they’re waiting on Japan to finish, so they can’t give a date till they get word that it’ll be ready by then.

          hjerry

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