Ahh autumn, truly the season of change. As hot snaps and long summer days give way to changing leaves, colder weather, and the always ubiquitous combo of Uggs and pumpkin spice lattes (god help us all) so to do things change in anime. Change for the ridiculously good. This fall is probably the first overloaded and hype-worthy season in a long time, as not only are we getting major heavy hitting sequel heaven with the likes of Spy x Family, Boku no Hero Academia, Golden Kamuy, and BLEACH, but also receiving some hotly anticipated adaptations and originals in Chainsaw Man, Mobile Suit Gundam Suisei no Majo, Urusei Yatsura, and Legend of Mana. Those names alone not tickling the fancy? Then try on Hamefura successor Akuyaku Reijou, comedic isekai Kage no Jitsuryoku ni Naritakute, Chinese historical Koukyuu no Karasu, and foreign-influenced romcom Renai Flops for size. And hey, if you still have time after all that anime (watch out for stomach aches) don’t forget about round two of the adorably annoying Uzaki-chan wa Asobitai, the man as isekai’d sword in Tensei Shitara Ken Deshita, the 90s maid apocalypse in Akiba Maid Sensou, and latest season in the never boring Mob Psycho 100.

The world may be a dark and dreary place right now, but anime this season is certainly here in spades to help us over the hump and keep us enjoying life. This is Random Curiosity’s Fall 2022 Preview!

 

Disclaimer: Considering how substantial a task the Random Curiosity season preview is, we’ve divided it up among our active staff (Choya, FJ Freeman, Gabie, Guardian Enzo, Pancakes (yours truly), Princess Usagi, 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. Our Excitement Levels showcase our visceral gut reactions to what we expect each show to be, so remember to check out the Overall Impressions section at the bottom for an overall idea of our seasonal thoughts and opinions.

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 shows being exclusively batch released through Netflix or similar streaming service (refer to the OVA section for mentions on these). Likewise, any shows which have been postponed or currently are not confirmed to premiere 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 sub/dub sources for each series. And if we happened to miss something major, don’t hesitate to poke us! Also remember if in need of some differing perspectives to check out the LiA Fall preview for a second opinion on many of these shows.

Above all else, however, many thanks are deserving to you, 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, have the desire to donate to our Patreon and Kofi or simply just lurk the site on occasion, it’s your time, attention, and company which keep us going. Honestly without you we wouldn’t be here writing about anime, so here’s to another fun season of it for us to enjoy together!

Technical Note: The schedule below is ordered by the date and time that the shows premiere. The links 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 example, Friday morning at 1:30AM would become Thursday at 25:30 to show that the episode aired late Thursday night. Series being streamed and season carryovers are excluded and series lacking confirmed air times are excluded until further airing info is released.

Saturday

Boku no Hero Academia (2022)
17:30 Yomiuri TV (10/01)

Mairimashita! Iruma-kun (2022)
18:25 NHK-E (10/08)

Uzaki-chan wa Asobitai! Double
21:00 AT-X (10/01)

Noumin Kanren no Skill Bakka Agetetara Naze ka Tsuyoku Natta.
22:00 TOKYO MX (10/01)

Yuusha Party o Tsuihou Sareta Beast Tamer, Saikyoushu no Nekomimi Shoujo to Deau
22:00 ABEMA (10/01)

Akuyaku Reijou nano de Last Boss o Katte Mimashita
22:30 TOKYO MX (10/01)

Spy x Family (2022)
23:00 TV Tokyo (10/01)

Koukyuu no Karasu
23:30 TOKYO MX (10/01)

Bocchi the Rock!
24:00 TOKYO MX (10/08)

Yowamushi Pedal: Limit Break
24:00 NHK (10/08)

Meitantei Conan: Hannin no Hanzawa-san
25:05 TOKYO MX (10/01)

Pop Team Epic (2022)
25:30 AT-X (10/01)

Blue Lock
25:30 TV Asahi (10/08)

4-nin wa Sorezore Uso o Tsuku
26:00 ABC (10/15)

JoJo no Kimyou na Bouken: Stone Ocean | ジョジョの奇妙な冒険 ストーンオーシャン
JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure Part 6: Stone Ocean Part 2Top
https://jojo-portal.com/anime/so/
Animation: David Production Premiere: September 1st, 2022
Genre: Action, Adventure Airtime (GMT+9): Web Streaming
Episodes: 12 Station: Netflix
Information Links: AniDB, ANN Encyclopedia, MyAnimeList, Syoboi, Wikipedia (EN), Wikipedia (JP)
Join the conversation @anime_jojo

Preview by Choya

Kujo Jolyne (Fairouz Ai), the daughter of Part III hero Jotaro, finds herself purposefully trapped in Green Dolphin Street Prison by DIO’s former partner Enrico Pucci (Tomokazu Seki). Pucci’s main goal is to use his stand White Snake’s ability to steal the powers of all of the Joestars, rendering them unable to fight back as he removes them from the equation and creates a world that DIO himself could be proud of. Since that wouldn’t fare too well for Jolyne or her family, she must navigate from within the prison system to recover her father’s abilities, fight back against Pucci, and survive against all of the superpowered criminals, friends, and affiliates that Pucci has gathered to fight Jolyne on his behalf. Luckily, she’s not alone though as she is joined by her closest friends in jail as they encounter a series of perilous fights and tight situations as they aim to wake up Jotaro from a harrowing coma and restore the abilities of Star Platinum.

By the time this season’s previews come out, Stone Ocean will already be released. In this case, I wouldn’t have to gauge whether this season needs to be seen or not, because, by the time the Fall season begins, you’ve probably seen it all. Chances are that a post on Stone Ocean would already be available to read on this site because of its early release. It’s highly unlikely that this will receive a standard week-by-week summary of one to three episodes since a full season breakdown would make more sense in this case. If the Stone Ocean anime adaptation is going to all be dumped on everyone at once and then promptly forgotten, it’d be silly not to follow suit and dedicate a single post to this season. Look forward to Part 2 out of ??? of Stone Ocean when it hits the web this September.

Watching This: Choya, Pancakes Excitement Level: High
JoJo no Kimyou na Bouken: Stone Ocean Promotional Videos ▼

Tensei Shitara Ken Deshita | 転生したら剣でした
Reincarnated as a SwordTop
https://www.tenken-anime.com/
Animation: C2C Premiere: September 28th, 2022
Genre: Fantasy Airtime (GMT+9): Wednesdays at 23:30
Episodes: 13 Station: ABEMA
Information Links: AniDB, ANN Encyclopedia, MyAnimeList, Syoboi, Wikipedia (EN), Wikipedia (JP)
Join the conversation @tenken_official

Preview by FJ Freeman

What wacky and new adventures will the world of the ever green and ever popular isekai genre bring this time? *checks notes* Reincarnated as a sword?

Of course, some isekai protagonists are reborn as OP wizards and warlocks, witches, and overpowered fantasy knights. Dare I even say, some of them get reborn as crazy slimes that get to rule over a nation. Not our protagonist here, instead he was reborn in another life as a sentient sword!

Our protagonist is taken up by Fran (Kakuma, Ai) a desperate girl in need of some help as she flees evil-doers intent on selling her into slavery. With her new weapon, who also happens to be our main protagonist, she is able to do some incredibleswordsmanship, with the help of a little guidance from the talking sword of course. She’s able to strike down her captors and secure her freedom. Together, this unlikely duo embarks on an epic adventure to liberate those in need and exact justice on this cruel world!

When it comes to isekai it doesn’t get any more wacky than this, and though the genre has had its fair share of blunders, you never know! This might actually be interesting, and with some fun twists here and there, hopefully, it doesn’t stray too much from the good path, but only time will tell.

Watching This: Pancakes Excitement Level: Average
Tensei Shitara Ken Deshita Promotional Videos ▼

Uchi no Shishou wa Shippo ga Nai | うちの師匠はしっぽがない
My Master Has No TailTop
https://shippona-anime.com/
Animation: Liden Films Premiere: September 30th, 2022
Genre: Historical, Supernatural Airtime (GMT+9): Fridays at 22:30
Episodes: 12 Station: TOKYO MX
Information Links: AniDB, ANN Encyclopedia, MyAnimeList, Syoboi, Wikipedia (EN), Wikipedia (JP)
Join the conversation @shippona_anime or

Preview by Princess Usagi

I find the strange, surreal world of yokai fascinating – and it turns out yokai are just as fascinated about the human world. In particular, a tanuki named Mameda (Ichimichi Mao) wishes more than anything to turn human. One day she attempts a jaunt in human form around Taisho Era (1910s) Osaka only to spectacularly fail in her disguise. A woman, Daikokutei Bunko (Yamamura Hibiku), heartlessly urges the young tanuki to give up and go home. Daikokutei just so happens to be a rakugo-ka (traditional Japanese storyteller) and their meeting throws Mameda into the world of rakugo. Thus starts our tanuki heroine on the hard road of training to become a rakugo-ka.

The premise with Japanese performing arts, early 20th century history, and folklore immediately caught my eye, all being things I am interested in. I find it intriguing that it centers on a female rakugo-ka in a time when rakugo performers were entirely men (there were no female rakugo masters until 1993). As such, it holds potential for exploring the challenges of being a woman in a man’s world. However, it could turn into a CGDCT series (which it looks like the mangaka TNSK has focused on in other works). With the tanuki meets human world angle, it almost reminds me of another tanuki-child series which I thoroughly enjoyed- Udon no Kuni no Kiniro Kemari. Promisingly, the studio behind that, LIDENFILMS, is also behind this – not to mention all the other standout series they’ve been doing recently. I would recommend keeping your eyes peeled for the first episode if you have an interest in Japanese traditional culture and folklore!

Watching This: Choya, Princess Usagi Excitement Level: Average
Boku no Hero Academia (2022) | 僕のヒーローアカデミア (2022)
My Hero Academia Season 6Top
https://heroaca.com/
Animation: Bones Premiere: October 1st, 2022
Genre: Action, Adventure Airtime (GMT+9): Saturdays at 17:30
Episodes: Station: Yomiuri TV
Information Links: AniDB, ANN Encyclopedia, MyAnimeList, Syoboi, Wikipedia (EN), Wikipedia (JP)
Join the conversation @heroaca_anime

Preview by Gabie

After months of waiting, fans of Heroaca can finally prepare their weekly buckets of popcorn and stretch their fingers for aggressive tweeting! Because this undeniable phenomenon hits the screens again with one of the most compelling arcs of our epic tale of heroes. With incredible plot twists and turns, the season picks up as Shigaraki Tomura undergoes a crazy procedure to receive an extremely dangerous–and mysterious–power. As our battles scale up, the impending war with the Paranormal Liberation Front looms just overhead. And in national war the stakes are higher, with civilization-scale consequences. The Halcyon days are over my friends!

Whether you like this show or not, Horikoshi’s talent as a storyteller of a character driven plot cannot be denied. The world-building and the quirk singularity theory are no doubt strong points, but the humanity struggles and development is what shines brightest for me. Even though I personally prefer the manga, I’ll be definitely tuning in to catch these moments in the big screen… And to listen to Nobuhiko-san’s screams. *blushes in Deku*

Watching This: Guardian Enzo, Gabie, Pancakes, Princess Usagi Excitement Level: Established
Boku no Hero Academia (2022) Promotional Videos ▼

Uzaki-chan wa Asobitai! Double | 宇崎ちゃんは遊びたい! ω
Uzaki-chan Wants to Hang Out! DoubleTop
https://uzakichan.com/
Animation: ENGI Premiere: October 1st, 2022
Genre: Comedy, Slice-of-Life Airtime (GMT+9): Saturdays at 21:00
Episodes: 13 Station: AT-X
Information Links: AniDB, ANN Encyclopedia, MyAnimeList, Syoboi, Wikipedia (EN), Wikipedia (JP)
Join the conversation @uzakichan_asobi

Preview by Choya

Editor’s Note:Call it Double all you want, it’s clearly omega 😛

Sakurai Shinichi (Akabane Kenji) thought he could have an easy time in college without having to stress out about any unwanted attention. He thought wrong, because Uzaki Hana (Oozora Naomi), his annoying underclassman, has arrived to throw a wrench in his plans for a carefree college life. Uzaki proves to be a shrill, clingy fixture in Sakurai’s life as she constantly nags and harasses him about how he spends his time. Sakurai’s introverted mindset turns Uzaki into his archenemy as he is unable to shake off her overbearing presence. At the same time, Sakurai can’t help but appreciate the company as his college life is definitely not snoozy in any definition of the word. Will he ever be able to coast through his studies in peace or will he be wrapped around Uzaki’s finger as he starts to fall deeper for her? Find out this season when Uzaki screams your ear off again.

It’s no secret that the show’s main appeal is that Uzaki is annoying. The story fully embraces the villainization of Uzaki to such an extent that it uses “ω” instead of “2” for its second season. Back when this one first came out, the internet was set ablaze over her design, her age, her behavior, and her smug laughter. I didn’t want to tackle it much when I covered it since it was low-hanging fruit for every terrible grifter on YouTube, and y’all don’t need yet another terminally online jerk to make every post an examination of the heavy ramifications of five carefully-curated social media posts and what they mean for anime discourse as a whole. Instead, I wanted to explore what the average viewer could see in a show that’s as abrasive as Uzaki-chan. Aside from the pointless side characters, the first season was a neat slice of life since it explored what early college life looks like for two acquaintances. Uzaki seemed like the catalyst behind the story’s issues with her constant badgering and mischief, but as the episodes and chapters rolled forward, her influence had rubbed off on Sakurai as he made it somewhat of a personal goal to dunk on her whenever he can. As a result, you have many segments where you have some pretty solid chemistry between the chaotic Uzaki and the secretly petty Sakurai. With all of the love flags that were placed between the two, it’ll be interesting if this season winds up moving the needle for any potential romance.

Watching This: Choya Excitement Level: Average
Uzaki-chan wa Asobitai! Double Promotional Videos ▼

Noumin Kanren no Skill Bakka Agetetara Naze ka Tsuyoku Natta. | 農民関連のスキルばっか上げてたら何故か強くなった.
I’ve Somehow Gotten Stronger When I Improved My Farm-Related Skills.Top
https://nouminkanren.com/
Animation: Studio A-CAT Premiere: October 1st, 2022
Genre: Fantasy Airtime (GMT+9): Saturdays at 22:00
Episodes: 12 Station: TOKYO MX
Information Links: AniDB, ANN Encyclopedia, MyAnimeList, Syoboi, Wikipedia (EN), Wikipedia (JP)
Join the conversation @nouminkanren

Preview by Zaiden

Al Wayne (Enoki Junya) (not to be confused with his long-lost cousin Bruce) aspires to be the Number 1 Farmer of his world. Despite sounding a humble enough aspiration, his life takes an unexpected yet dramatic turn after he maxes out his farming skills. If the trailers are anything to go by, he is capable of instantly defeating dragons by pelting a potato at them, which seems overpowered no matter what kind of mustard we’re looking to cut with. There looks to be all sorts of troubles on the horizon from here on out, but our protagonist seems well-equipped to deal with whatever unfortunate dastardly dastards come the way of him and his peaceful farming life.

During my teenage years, I read an absolute ton of ongoing other world manga and kept up with them for a couple of chapters, only to never touch them again. I suspect Noumin Kanren no Skill belongs to that heap. It looks fun enough, don’t get me wrong. So if you’re into the unassuming but overpowered janitor trope, this is totally for you. Problem being I’ve never seen a secret farmer class in games like Final Fantasy or Dragon Quest, so suspending my disbelief is proving to be more difficult than usual. Primarily because I can’t draw a straight correlation between farming skills, and being able to instantly defeat a dragon with a lobbed potato. Nevertheless up and coming superstar voice actor Junya (Yuuji Itadori from Jujutsu Kaisen, Asanaka Yomogi from SSSS.Dynazenon, Nasa from Tonikaku Kawaii) features as the protagonist. Plus judging by the list of other characters, it seems fairly likely there will be a harem aspect too. If all of that sounds hunky dory to you, this show would certainly be worth keeping an eye out for.

Watching This: Choya Excitement Level: Average
Noumin Kanren no Skill Bakka Agetetara Naze ka Tsuyoku Natta. Promotional Videos ▼

Yuusha Party o Tsuihou Sareta Beast Tamer, Saikyoushu no Nekomimi Shoujo to Deau | 勇者パーティーを追放されたビーストテイマー, 最強種の猫耳少女と出会う
The Beast Tamer Who Was Exiled from His Party Meets a Cat Girl From the Strongest RaceTop
https://beasttamer.jp/
Animation: EMT Squared Premiere: October 1st, 2022
Genre: Fantasy Airtime (GMT+9): Saturdays at 22:00
Episodes: 12 Station: ABEMA
Information Links: AniDB, ANN Encyclopedia, MyAnimeList, Syoboi, Wikipedia (EN), Wikipedia (JP)
Join the conversation @beasttamer_off

Preview by Pancakes

Beast tamer Rein Shroud (Chiba Shouya) has a job many a young kid long to possess: a member of the hero’s party. Or at least had. Fighting only with the assistance of animals, the other members of the party gradually consider Rein to be dead weight, enough so that he’s eventually banished from the party outright. It’s quite the rude awakening for the guy, but Rein is not one to let circumstances get him down. Reveling in his newfound freedom, Rein sets out the become an adventurer, a task made all the easier by coming across Kanade (Waki Azumi), a member of the world’s strongest cat tribe – and Rein himself actually being the one who carried the hero’s party. You see all those animals Rein had at his beck and call were what helped keep the Demon King in check, and now Rein’s former allies are about to discover what struggle truly entails.

While isekai remains all the rage, fantasy in anime is slowly seeing the emergence of another force de jour in slice-of-life series predicated on one poor sucker pulling the short straw from the hero party pack, of which Yuusha Party wo Tsuihou Sareta Beast Tamer just happens to be the latest example. This one is basically Banished from the Hero’s Party version 2.0, with former hero running drug store being replaced by former hero collecting adorable catgirls and having fun adventuring. Is it everything we’ve seen before? Pretty much, but that doesn’t mean there isn’t entertainment to be had, particularly when Uzaki-chan wa Asobitai’s Aoshima Takahasi is penning the script alongside slice-of-life connoisseurs in studio EMT Squared doing animation duty. Should Yuusha Party wo Tsuihou Sareta Beast Tamer keep things lighthearted and fun, this will certainly be one fall fantasy adventure to keep a tab on.

Watching This: Pancakes Excitement Level: Average
Yuusha Party o Tsuihou Sareta Beast Tamer, Saikyoushu no Nekomimi Shoujo to Deau Promotional Videos ▼

Akuyaku Reijou nano de Last Boss o Katte Mimashita | 悪役令嬢なのでラスボスを飼ってみました
I’m the Villainess, So I’m Taming the Final BossTop
https://akulas-pr.com/
Animation: Maho Film Premiere: October 1st, 2022
Genre: Fantasy, Romance Airtime (GMT+9): Saturdays at 22:30
Episodes: 12 Station: TOKYO MX
Information Links: AniDB, ANN Encyclopedia, MyAnimeList, Syoboi, Wikipedia (EN)
Join the conversation @akulas_pr

Preview by Pancakes

A life in the hospital is no easy thing, and for one young and acutely ill girl it’s enough to truly sap all her strength. Yet not all is that bad thanks to the escapism of games. Quite literally for said girl. Suddenly finding herself awake as one Irene Lauren d’Autriche (Takahashi Rie), a villainess from her favourite otome game, things quickly escalate as she comes to just as crown prince Cedric (Masuda Toshiki), Irene’s childhood friend and dearly betrothed, annuls their engagement to announce his love for game protagonist Lilia Rainworth (Hanazawa Kana). The shock wouldn’t even be all that bad if memory enhanced Irene didn’t know the tragic fate ahead of her over Cedric’s decision, a fate she is now determined to avoid. No matter how quick Irene must now act, one way or another she’ll do what’s needed to survive.

Ever since Hamefura graced our TV screens it was a matter of time before the otome-themed isekai floodgates opened and I dare say we have our first true successor in Akuyaku Reijou. Unlike the genre twisted Otome Game a couple season’s back this one very much follows in Bakarina’s footsteps, right down to comedic villainess doing everything she can to avoid the death flags and win the day. Or in other words, hilarity ahoy. The big difference with Akuyaku Reijou, however, will be in romance; Irene securing new relationships and lovers is central to the story, and any harem elements present play secondary to the main pairing at work. Especially once you realize just who she’s trying to woo (hint hint). Given how Hamefura went I would not anticipate Akuyaku Reijou being particularly masterful a show, but this one will easily scratch any fall romcom itch you might have.

Watching This: Pancakes Excitement Level: Average
Akuyaku Reijou nano de Last Boss o Katte Mimashita Promotional Videos ▼

Spy x Family (2022) | SPY×FAMILY (2022)Top
https://spy-family.net/
Animation: Clover Works, Wit Studio Premiere: October 1st, 2022
Genre: Action, Comedy, Drama Airtime (GMT+9): Saturdays at 23:00
Episodes: 13 Station: TV Tokyo
Information Links: AniDB, ANN Encyclopedia, MyAnimeList, Syoboi, Wikipedia (EN), Wikipedia (JP)
Join the conversation @spyfamily_anime

Preview by Princess Usagi

What happens when an assassin, a spy, and a mind-reader walk into a room? No, this isn’t the beginning of a joke – but the premise of Spy X Family. With tensions rising between the nations of Ostania and Westalis, Twilight (Eguchi Takuya), a top Westalian secret agent of many faces, is tasked with adopting one face he hasn’t tried on yet: that of a family man, aka Loid Forger. To spy on an important and almost unreachable Ostanian politician, Twilight must connect with him through sending a child to said politician’s son’s school. Normally, it would be difficult to start a family overnight, but with Anya (Tanezaki Azumi), a mind-reading child in need of a home and Yor (Hayami Saori), an assassin for whom married life is a perfect way to stay undercover, Twilight’s assignment becomes reality. While each holds their secret from the other, they grow to learn that caring for a family goes deeper than mere appearances.

The first cour was superb, with excellent direction and a classy mid 20th century style throughout. The stellar Wit Studio will continue to partner with Clover Works for the second season. The director Furuhashi Kazuhiro did a stylish job with the first cour, so I would expect the same for the second. If you are a fan of James Bond and espionage, of drama and heartwarming comedy, or you simply want a piece of the well-deserved Spy x Family hype you should put this show at the top of your Fall watchlist!

Watching This: Guardian Enzo, Gabie, FJ Freeman, Pancakes, Princess Usagi Excitement Level: High
Spy x Family (2022) Promotional Videos ▼

Koukyuu no Karasu | 後宮の烏
Raven of the Inner PalaceTop
https://kokyu-anime.com/
Animation: BN Pictures Premiere: October 1st, 2022
Genre: Fantasy, Historical Airtime (GMT+9): Saturdays at 23:30
Episodes: Station: TOKYO MX
Information Links: AniDB, ANN Encyclopedia, MyAnimeList, Syoboi, Wikipedia (EN), Wikipedia (JP)
Join the conversation @kokyu_anime

Preview by Passerby

It calls itself the Middle Kingdom. What confidence does one need to declare oneself the centre of the world? And how heavy weighs the crown on the head that rules it? The emperor, Ka Koushun (Mizunaka Masaaki) knows well the burden of the Mandate of Heaven. The troubles of the land are enough already, but even safe his northern capital, retired to his bounded palace, cloistered in his inner sanctum, he is beset. Since his youth Koushun has been mired in intrigue and conspiracy and even now his own concubines do naught but scheme and vie for succession. But there is one with no interest in the emperor’s bed or the game of thrones. The imperial court whispers rumours about the Uhi, the Raven Consort (Mizuno Saku). Some say she is an old woman who dispenses sage advice. Others say she is a young woman who enchants men. All say she is a witch. And when the emperor is finally driven to call on her services, their meeting will reshape the fate of the Middle Kingdom.

Period drama revolving around the palace intrigues of the imperial China are quite popular in, unsurprisingly, China but is quite rare fare for anime. This alone makies Kokyo no Karasu, based on a light novel of the same name by Shirakawa Kouko, interesting. It’s not that Japan doesn’t have its own analogue to the setting and genre (mostly Tokugawa flavoured) but it’s always worth paying attention to anime wander outside its usually culturally homogenous comfort zone. The overt fantasy elements don’t detract from this, in my opinion, and in fact gives the premise an almost Shakespearean quality, invoking the witches of Macbeth or the plot-inciting ghost of Hamlet. Appropriately, the trailer carries a decidedly otherworldy feeling thanks to music by Tachibana Asami. That’s the exactly the tone I’m looking for in an anime like this and hopefully Kokyu no Karasu will be able to show that there’s more to fantasy than just isekai and superpowered violence.

Watching This: Pancakes, Princess Usagi Excitement Level: Optimistic
Koukyuu no Karasu Promotional Videos ▼

Meitantei Conan: Hannin no Hanzawa-san | 名探偵コナン 犯人の犯沢さんTop
https://hanzawasan-file.com/
Animation: TMS Entertainment Premiere: October 1st, 2022
Genre: Mystery Airtime (GMT+9): Saturdays at 25:05
Episodes: Station: TOKYO MX
Information Links: AniDB, ANN Encyclopedia, MyAnimeList, Syoboi, Wikipedia (EN), Wikipedia (JP)
Join the conversation @hanzawasan_file

Preview by Zaiden

Meitantei Conan: Hannin no Hanzawa-san, is a spinoff from the main franchise, following the eponymous criminal Hanzama-san (Aoi Shouta), who sets off to Beika City from the countryside for the express purpose of murdering a certain man who he holds a grudge against. Follow this eccentric and hapless criminal, as he attempts to find his way through a modern cityscape that he’s totally unfamiliar with, while noting the stark contrast between his murderous intentions and lack of courage when it comes to living in a city with the highest crime rate in Japan.

Part of me suspects that Conan creator Aoyama Gosho is secretly some manga drawing cyborg developed by the Japanese government, as a prototype to see if AI can generate long-standing beloved manga serializations, who will continue writing up Detective Conan long after we’ve expired from this world. And continue to reap economic returns for the Japanese government at that. In an industry where numerous titans have come and gone, Detective Conan has continuously weathered the harsh passage of time and its longevity can only be described as ridiculously impressive. But as someone who has never watched any Conan, the only thing that has caught my attention is the fact that Minori Inase is voicing Hanzawa-san’s pet dog. That aside this rabbit hole is probably too deep for me to dive into, though I’d imagine for long-time followers of the franchise, you can never go wrong with more Detective Conan content to watch. Not to mention I’ve heard the trailers for this spinoff sport superior visuals to the long-running TV series.

Watching This: No one yet. Excitement Level: Established
Meitantei Conan: Hannin no Hanzawa-san Promotional Videos ▼

Pop Team Epic (2022) | ポプテピピック (2022)Top
http://hoshiiro.jp/
Animation: Kamikaze Douga Premiere: October 1st, 2022
Genre: Comedy Airtime (GMT+9): Saturdays at 25:30
Episodes: 12 Station: AT-X
Information Links: AniDB, ANN Encyclopedia, MyAnimeList, Syoboi, Wikipedia (EN), Wikipedia (JP)
Join the conversation @hoshiiro_anime

Preview by Choya

After the events of the last season, Popuko and Pipimi have been tried and executed for YouTube crimes. As soon as they meet their untimely demise, they find themselves floating in a celestial starfield, uncertain of the fate that awaits them. They are greeted by the legendary singer/actor Aoi “SHOWTA” Shouta, who promises to bring them back to life on one condition: They enroll in a supernatural death game. Against each other. Whoever wins will ascend to the throne that Aoi sits on as he promises to relinquish the title of the world’s supreme ruler to the winner. Will Popuko’s size work out in her favor as she slinks and sneaks her way to victory? Or will Pipimi be able to stretch herself out far enough to have Popuko within her grasp? Find out in this hyper-violent, ultra-erotic thrill ride!

At last, the internet’s favorite and least favorite short-form comedy anime king has returned. While much of the metatextual comedy centered around geek culture is where Pop Team Epic gets its easiest laughs, the first season’s greatest strength is how experimental it was willing to get with its animation and story-telling. While some of the skits from the original manga are animated regularly, you’d have a ton of skits that are given the most off-the-wall rendition to them. The “Hellshake Yano” sketch is one of the coolest and most creative comedy skits I’ve seen in anime in recent years with how they just put two dudes in a room to act out an entire anime about an ultra-powered rockstar through a series of sketchpad illustrations that they’d both interact with. There were also some funny segments where they pulled aside a French animator for their rendition of what the girls’ struggles would be like for French audiences. Sometimes, even the animation wouldn’t be consistent as they’d deliberately dedicate segments to switching to a haunting, crudely-drawn, avant-garde art style just to add to the disturbing, fever dream aesthetic of Pop Team Epic. I’ll be excited to give this season a glance when it arrives this Fall.

Watching This: Choya Excitement Level: Average
Pop Team Epic (2022) Promotional Videos ▼

Kidou Senshi Gundam: Suisei no Majo | 機動戦士ガンダム 水星の魔女
Mobile Suit Gundam: The Witch from MercuryTop
https://g-witch.net/
Animation: Sunrise Premiere: October 2nd, 2022
Genre: Sci-Fi Airtime (GMT+9): Sundays at 17:00
Episodes: 2 cours likely Station: MBS・TBS
Information Links: AniDB, ANN Encyclopedia, MyAnimeList, Syoboi, Wikipedia (EN), Wikipedia (JP)
Join the conversation @g_witch_m

Preview by Pancakes

It is the year A.S. (Ad Stella) 112 and humanity has conquered the depths of space. Throughout the solar system private industries have sprung up by the dozens, built on the back of a multitude of corporations all willing to take the risk – and reap the rewards – of what space has to offer. One such company is the Beneritt Group, a manufacturing conglomerate which dominates the mobile suit industry, and a conglomerate operating the Asticassia School of Technology. A school one Suletta Mercury (Ichinose Kana) transfers to in her second year. Heralding from Mercury itself, Suletta is a timid and introverted girl, but little does she know that her time at Asticassia will involve far more than simple classwork. Suletta you see is the pilot of Mercury’s own mobile suit Gundam Aerial – and some will do anything to get their hands on such technology.

Don’t deny, you know you’re excited for this one just from the title alone. Anytime Sunrise comes up with a new Gundam entry it’s reason to celebrate, especially a Gundam series not part of the UC universe, a Gundam not playing towards kiddy themes and material, and a Gundam which, surprise surprise, features the franchise’s first female lead. While not that much is known about the Witch from Mercury’s plot right now, the prologue episode back in July gives some broad ideas: this Gundam will, similar to Iron Blooded Orphans, will have a physical and psychological toll from piloting mobile suits (the suits originate from cybernetics this time), and play more to the moral use of mobile suit technology for upholding the status quo than its typical use as eye candy in a war over political freedom. Or in other words, a Gundam likely leaning more philosophically towards Gundam 00 than Gundam SEED while doubling down on the Gundam Build art style (seriously, just look at those character designs). It may be too early to determine just how the Witch from Mercury will stack up to its fellow Gundam brethren (let alone the rest of this season’s offerings), but without a doubt this is one of fall’s must-watch shows.

Watching This: Choya, FJ Freeman, Pancakes, Princess Usagi Excitement Level: Optimistic
Idolish Seven: Third Beat! (2022) | アイドリッシュセブン Third BEAT! (2022)Top
https://idolish7.com/aninana/
Animation: Troyca Premiere: October 2nd, 2022
Genre: Music Airtime (GMT+9): Sundays at 22:30
Episodes: 13 Station: TOKYO MX
Information Links: AniDB, ANN Encyclopedia, MyAnimeList, Syoboi, Wikipedia (EN), Wikipedia (JP)
Join the conversation @ID7_anime

Preview by FJ Freeman

Are you ready to go back and support your favorite boys in this new second cour of the third season of IDOLiSH7? Well ready or not here we go!

A group of aspiring idols suddenly gather at Takanashi Productions and are entrusted with the company’s future. The seven men who have just met each other represent a variety of totally different personalities. However, they each have their own charm and posses unknown potential as idols. Forming a group, they take their first steps together as IDOLISH7.

Their brilliantly shining dancing forms onstage eventually begin captivating the hearts of people all around the world.

Now it’s up to them to shine bright on that stage and go forward together as they conquer the music world with their shining personality and winning smiles. How will they conquer your hearts next? Time to find out.

Watching This: No one yet. Excitement Level: Limited
Idolish Seven: Third Beat! (2022) Promotional Videos ▼

Shinmai Renkinjutsushi no Tenpo Keiei | 新米錬金術師の店舗経営
Management of Novice AlchemistTop
https://shinmai-renkin.com/
Animation: ENGI Premiere: October 3rd, 2022
Genre: Fantasy, Slice-of-Life Airtime (GMT+9): Mondays at 21:00
Episodes: 13 Station: AT-X
Information Links: AniDB, ANN Encyclopedia, MyAnimeList, Syoboi, Wikipedia (EN), Wikipedia (JP)
Join the conversation @shinmai_renkin

Preview by Pancakes

Young Sarasa Feed (Takao Kanon) hasn’t had the easiest of lives, growing up as an orphan and enduring the struggles of the Royal Alchemist Academy in order to obtain her national alchemical qualifications. Yet all worked out in the end, and now being a fully licensed alchemist, Sarasa was gifted a house (and alchemist shop) of her own by her master to kickstart her career. Well, mostly worked out. Sarasa’s new house just so happens to lie deep within magical flyover country, and Sarasa is very much an urban girl. Whether she wants it or not, Sarasa is about to find out if the charms of the country can make up for the lack of simplicity of the city.

There’s been a seasonal trend of late for some number of fantasy/isekai shows to be full-bore slice-of-life and Shinmai Renkinjutsushi no Tenpo Keiei is the one which arguably meets fall’s quota. This one very much follows in the footsteps of Slime 300 or hell even last season’s Isekai Yakkyoku, with daily living being the theme, alchemy being the flavour, and lighthearted wholesome comedy filling out the remainder. Or if you will, another fantasy version of cute girls doing cute things. Shinmai Renkinjutsushi certainly won’t be topping the charts given the material in question, but with Tonikaku Kawaii’s Ikehata Shiroshi overseeing production as director, the source light novels easily having enough material for a single season, and the fairly decent ENGI providing animation, there’s nothing here saying to expect a trainwreck in the making. If you need a bit of wholesome slice-of-life relaxation to help round out this season, Shinmai Renkinjutsushi is without a doubt one show to keep on your fall radar.

Watching This: No one yet. Excitement Level: Average
Shinmai Renkinjutsushi no Tenpo Keiei Promotional Videos ▼

Golden Kamuy (2022) | ゴールデンカムイ (2022)Top
https://kamuy-anime.com/
Animation: Brain’s Base Premiere: October 3rd, 2022
Genre: Action, Historical Airtime (GMT+9): Sundays at 23:00
Episodes: 12 Station: TOKYO MX
Information Links: AniDB, ANN Encyclopedia, MyAnimeList, Syoboi, Wikipedia (EN), Wikipedia (JP)
Join the conversation @kamuy_anime

Preview by Princess Usagi

Legend comes to life when the fierce ex-soldier, the Immortal Sugimoto (Kobayashi Chikahiro), and fierce Ainu huntress Asirpa (Shiraishi Haruka) pursue gold stolen from her Ainu people. In an epic journey that is part nature survival guide, part foodie heaven, part historical thriller, part glorious strangeness, they meet many wacky allies and face formidable foes. Together once again, Sugimoto and Asirpa continue their hunt for gold in snowy Hokkaido. From the PV, it looks like both old faces are returning with some new ones to meet.

The past three seasons were amazing with the third season being my favorite overall in terms of direction and story, so I have high hopes that the fourth season will continue on that trajectory. However, I have hesitations due to significant staffing changes. Golden Kamuy will be moving over to Brain’s Base – which although different from before, is still a solid studio, having had some good shows in the past I enjoyed. A different director, Sugahara Shizutaka, will also be coming on board. I do worry that there will be discontinuity in the quality of the season with a shuffled staff, especially after the good groove it got into last season. I want to stay optimistic that Golden Kamuy will stay, well, golden, but if anything (hopefully), the story will speak for itself regardless of what happens behind the scenes. If you haven’t seen this series yet, there’s still time to binge watch it and if you have already seen it, then let’s eagerly wait for what will hopefully be an epic continuation of the story!

Watching This: Guardian Enzo, Pancakes, Princess Usagi Excitement Level: Established
Golden Kamuy (2022) Promotional Videos ▼

Shinobi no Ittoki | 忍の一時
Ittoki the NinjaTop
https://ninja-ittoki.com/
Animation: Troyca Premiere: October 4th, 2022
Genre: Action, Thriller Airtime (GMT+9): Tuesdays at 20:00
Episodes: 12 Station: AT-X
Information Links: AniDB, ANN Encyclopedia, MyAnimeList, Syoboi, Wikipedia (EN), Wikipedia
(JP)
Join the conversation @ninja_ittoki

Preview by Zaiden

Ittoki Sakuraba (Oosaka Ryouta) is almost an ordinary high school boy. Almost. For his ordinary high school boy life comes to an abrupt end when ninja assassins come after his life, hell-bent on erasing his lineage from the planet. Fortunately, he survives the encounter, but soon discovers he is in fact the only remaining vestige of the Iga Clan’s bloodline, making him the only possible heir to their leadership. With his life never to be the same again, Sakuraba in all his reluctance must discover what it means to be a shinobi, and how he must take up the mantle thrusted upon him by destiny as brutal, intergenerational conflict ensues between the legendary Iga and Kouga ninja clans.

My gripe with primogeniture, the custom where the eldest son is automatically the successor, is when the heir apparent clearly has no interest in succeeding the family business. I can’t see why the Iga clan can’t just pick another worthy wannabe ninja to become the new leader. Given the prevalence of weebs in global society, it wouldn’t be hard to pick out someone who would want to inherit the title. I suppose Sakuraba doesn’t have much of a choice, given that the Kouga will be trying to murder him no matter what due to his bloodline. So he must learn, and quickly too, how to survive in a cruel and violent world using all at his disposal. As a historical action flick, this certainly could be worth checking out for adrenaline junkies or shinobi buffs. I remain wary of Studio Troyca, a place that never fails to ooze style but at the expense of having substance. But I would be fascinated to see if Oosaka Ryouta can revive his voice acting career, which has taken quite a tumble since his hey days 7-9 years ago where he was cast as a main role in just about everything, whereas he finds himself scraping by with supporting roles these days.

Watching This: No one yet. Excitement Level: Average
Shinobi no Ittoki Promotional Videos ▼

Yama no Susume: Next Summit | ヤマノススメ Next Summit
Encouragement of Climb: Next SummitTop
https://yamanosusume-ns.com/
Animation: 8bit Premiere: October 4th, 2022
Genre: Slice-of-Life Airtime (GMT+9): Tuesdays at 24:30
Episodes: 12 Station: TOKYO MX
Information Links: AniDB, ANN Encyclopedia, MyAnimeList, Syoboi, Wikipedia (EN), Wikipedia (JP)
Join the conversation @yamanosusume

Preview by Gabie

Fans of the Yama no Susume rejoice! This series is coming back to its fourth installment, making a strong statement of how the outdoorsy genre garners a devoted fanbase who are just waiting to show their love. And while I haven’t caught this one, it seems the question no one can stop asking is: will Aoi (Iguchi Yuka) finally get to climb Mt. Fuji?! And will new characters be introduced to the cast? I mean, while hiking solo is no doubt awesome, these lovely girls have proved season after season that group hiking is way too much fun!

With 21 manga volumes, this ongoing series written and illustrated by Shiro doesn’t seem like it will run out of source material anytime soon. And with a country so in love with hiking as Japan, it comes as no wonder that this one is so popular over there. If you haven’t caught up with the girls yet, there’s still time to binge the first three short-form seasons–and maybe even find yourself on a trail to get into the real spirit of the thing!

Watching This: No one yet. Excitement Level: Optimistic
Yama no Susume: Next Summit Promotional Videos ▼

Vazzrock the Animation | VAZZROCK THE ANIMATIONTop
https://www.vazzrock-anime.com/
Animation: PRA Premiere: October 5th, 2022
Genre: Music Airtime (GMT+9): Wednesdays at 22:30
Episodes: Station: TOKYO MX
Information Links: AniDB, ANN Encyclopedia, MyAnimeList, Syoboi, Wikipedia (EN), Wikipedia (JP)
Join the conversation @vazzani_info

Preview by FJ Freeman

Words can have a lot of meaning, and this simple idiom from the president of Tsukino Talent Production is what inspired a group of men to join the company and enter the Vazzrock project. It’s been several years since twelve extraordinary talents with varying backgrounds and life experiences, as well as that of being idols, were brought together, from different artistic backgrounds and genres, and with variety of age range.

They were brought together for a common purpose, to form the groups of Vazzy and Rock Down. As they were formed the boys strived to perform in ever greater heights, and ever since then they have been working closely together as a pair. Both as close friends and, of course, as rivals.

Playing off the personalities of each other and polishing their skills together as one, following the same common goal. No matter the hardships they face, or the hurt they endure, they move together ever forward and strive to continue to shine on that stage once more. Get ready for the next big thing in music and idols this Fall season!

Watching This: No one yet Excitement Level: Limited
Kage no Jitsuryokusha ni Naritakute! | 陰の実力者になりたくて!
The Eminence in ShadowTop
https://shadow-garden.jp/
Animation: Nexus Premiere: October 5th, 2022
Genre: Comedy, Fantasy Airtime (GMT+9): Wednesdays at 23:00
Episodes: 12 Station: TOKYO MX
Information Links: AniDB, ANN Encyclopedia, MyAnimeList, Syoboi, Wikipedia (EN), Wikipedia (JP)
Join the conversation @Shadowgarden_PR

Preview by Pancakes

When it comes to grand stories everyone wants to be the hero or villain, the centre of attention, the saviour – or destroyer – of it all. Except Kagenou Cid (Yamashita Seiichirou). A self-styled megalomaniac, what Cid dreams most of all is to be the mastermind, the puppeteer pulling the strings and getting to enjoy having both good and bad do his exact bidding. Thankfully for Cid he got to realize this dream, being reborn into a world of magic following Truck-kun’s serendipitous visit whereby he was able to set up and recruit for the secretive organization Shadow Garden. There’s just one little problem. The completely fake cult whom Cid imagined up for Shadow Garden to fight against actually exists, and Cid isn’t what you’d call the shrewdest of wannabe masterminds. Can ad-libs and overactive imagination overcome legitimate evil? One way or another Cid is about to find out.

Isekai might be a well-beaten horse at this point, but there’s always room to spice up things and Kage no Jitsuryokusha ni Naritakute is determined to try. If not immediately obvious this one is very much comedy focused, with the running joke being Cid’s chuunibyou-esque imagination is actually reality with him being the only one who isn’t in on the joke. This makes for a pretty nice balance of humour and seriousness, something we’ve gotten before with say Meikyuu Black Company, yet arguably not to this degree. As with all things comedy personal taste is going to make or break one’s perception here (particularly if the premise wears out its welcome quickly), but given Katou Kanichi of Marimashita Iruma-kun fame is penning the script and Nexus has a fairly solid track record, I’d certainly give this one some benefit of the doubt. When it comes to isekai this season, Kage no Jitsuryokusha ni Naritakute is worth a bit of attention.

Watching This: Pancakes Excitement Level: Average
Kage no Jitsuryokusha ni Naritakute! Promotional Videos ▼

Do It Yourself!! | どぅー・いっと・ゆあせるふ!!Top
https://diy-anime.com/
Animation: Pine Jam Premiere: October 5th, 2022
Genre: School Life, Slice-of-Life Airtime (GMT+9): Wednesdays at 24:00
Episodes: 12 Station: TV Tokyo
Information Links: AniDB, ANN Encyclopedia, MyAnimeList, Syoboi, Wikipedia (EN), Wikipedia (JP)
Join the conversation @diy_anime

Preview by Choya

Thanos once said, “Fine, I’ll do it myself.” While he was talking about galactic conquest, I could imagine he could appreciate a nice DIY project as much as the members of the DIY Club. Do It Yourself!! follows a rag-tag crew of high school girls who share a mutual interest in building both furniture and friendships. Day in and day out, the girls assign DIY projects to themselves as they persevere through the struggles that come from crafting. Although times can be grim for the girls as they fail and push themselves not to give up, their dedication to creating new experiences with the help of good friends allows their intentions to shine through. Witness their adventures with furniture and friendship as they take the next steps forward towards the futures they wish to pursue in Do It Yourself!!

Stories about girls going to after-school extracurricular clubs are a tale as old as time, but none of which have involved making furniture or crafting. It makes for an interesting, unique experience because it’s clear that they do have a set goal to dedicate many episodes to whether they’ll be able to complete their projects or not. As with any slice-of-life anime, the art style can be the deciding factor for many, and Do It Yourself!! has plenty to promise on this end. From the looks of it, it has a clean aesthetic that’s poppy and expressive, yet has a neutral color palette to it that helps bring a down-to-earth atmosphere to the anime. It’ll be neat to see if they manage to cobble together a memorable slice-of-life experience when Do It Yourself!! premieres for the Fall.

Watching This: FJ Freeman Excitement Level: Average
Do It Yourself!! Promotional Videos ▼

Mob Psycho 100 III | モブサイコ100 IIITop
https://mobpsycho100.com/
Animation: Bones Premiere: October 5th, 2022
Genre: Comedy, Supernatural Airtime (GMT+9): Wednesdays at 24:00
Episodes: 12 Station: TOKYO MX
Information Links: AniDB, ANN Encyclopedia, MyAnimeList, Syoboi, Wikipedia (EN), Wikipedia (JP)
Join the conversation @mobpsycho_anime

Preview by Guardian Enzo

It’s an odd thing. Although Made in Abyss and Vinland Saga both made my 2010’s Top 20 list and Mob Psycho 100 did not, when all three sequels were announced within weeks of each other it was this one I found myself most looking forward to. I don’t think my decisions were wrong, even in hindsight, so I’m not sure why that was. Maybe because this season will see Mob Psycho to its completion and I have strong faith in ONE to deliver the goods in that respect. And of course the truth is, if that had been a “Top 22” list MP100 would have made it for sure. And both seasons would have been my #1 series some years – just not the years they were released.

The recipe for success here is pretty straightforward. Two incredible main characters in Mob and Reigen (and Ekubo isn’t far behind), a great supporting cast, clever premise, and a superb adaptation by a superb studio. Bones usually delivers the goods but from the beginning its been clear that they hold this project in special affection. Their top director – Tachikawa Yuzuru – has been in charge, and the animation has been consistently stunning. Yuzuru has switched to the chief director role, leaving relative unknown Bones veteran Hasui Takahiro in charge, but I’m not worried. Bones loved this show too much not to give it the platinum treatment.

I haven’t read any of the manga chapters the final season will adapt, but those who have generally seem to consider this the strongest part of the series. Mob is an incredibly relatable and interesting lead with a tremendous character arc, and it’s always satisfying to see those through to their conclusion. It would be wonderful if all great manga got the sort of treatment Mob Psycho 100 has, but of course that’s not really realistic – certainly not in 2022. For my part I’m going to make sure I take the time to appreciate just how lucky fans of this series truly are that it’s one of the fortunate ones.

Watching This: Guardian Enzo, FJ Freeman, Pancakes, Princess Usagi Excitement Level: High
Mob Psycho 100 III Promotional Videos ▼

Muv-Luv Alternative (2022) | Muv-Luv Alternative (2022)Top
https://muv-luv-alternative-anime.com/
Animation: Flagship Line Premiere: October 5th, 2022
Genre: Drama, Sci-Fi Airtime (GMT+9): Wednesdays at 24:55
Episodes: 12 Station: Fuji TV
Information Links: AniDB, ANN Encyclopedia, MyAnimeList, Syoboi, Wikipedia (EN), Wikipedia (JP)
Join the conversation @Muv_Luv_A_anime

Preview by Zephyr

One year after its initial run, Muv-Luv Alternative returns with its second and likely final season. As with its predecessor, the series will be a collaborative effort between Graphinica, its partner media company in Avex Pictures, and subsidiary anime studio Yumeta Company. The series will continue to focus on a world where aliens known as the BETA have invaded Earth, taken over much of Europe and Asia, and decimated most of the human population. Leading the cast is Shirogane Takeru, who suddenly finds himself three years back in the past. Armed with the prior knowledge of events to come, he attempts to guide events to a better conclusion—one that won’t end with humanity having to escape Earth and the remainder of the population attempting (and failing) a final all-in counteroffensive against the BETA. The second season will see Takeru attempting to overcome new, unfamiliar challenges resulted from his changes to the timeline. With his prior knowledge becoming less helpful with every change, Takeru will enter uncharted territory as humanity continues its slow march to the day that decides everything.

As I mentioned in the previous preview back in fall of 2021, there was a worry that the series’ decision not to cover the Extra and Unlimited prequels and the lengthiness of the Alternative source material would cause problems in its adaptation. I didn’t end up watching Alternative myself, but based on its ratings and the comments left by viewers, it seems like my worries were well founded. From what I can see, the series was plagued—especially early on—with rushed developments and massive info dumps that attempt, but fail to make up for the parts that were skipped over. Some noted how they could see the appeal of the story despite its many flaws—a testament to the quality of the series’ core narrative—but ultimately, even though the series supposedly settles down after a while, there’s lasting damage to the characters and their development. Given the series’ reliance on said characters, their bonds, and their motivations to drive the narrative, it’s clear that the series is only a shell of its former self and it’s really unfortunate that things ended up the way that they did here (and that’s without going into the lackluster animation quality). I’d like to say that the best parts of the franchise will likely be covered in this second season so you might as well stick with it if you’re still watching, but with how poorly things seem to have gone and the surprising lack of information regarding the staff and cast just weeks before the series’ expected airing, I can’t tell if seeing those events would help you see the anime in a better light or just ruin the series’ best moments instead. The visual novel has always been and remains the definitive Muv-Luv experience.

Watching This: No one yet. Excitement Level: Average
Muv-Luv Alternative (2022) Promotional Videos ▼

Futoku no Guild | 不徳のギルド
Guild of DepravityTop
https://futoku-no-anime.com/
Animation: TNK Premiere: October 5th, 2022
Genre: Fantasy Airtime (GMT+9): Wednesdays at 25:35
Episodes: 12 Station: TOKYO MX
Information Links: AniDB, ANN Encyclopedia, MyAnimeList, Syoboi, Wikipedia (EN), Wikipedia (JP)
Join the conversation @futoku_anime

Preview by Pancakes

When it comes to monster hunting, no one is more skilled than the twenty-year old Kikuru Madan (Fukuhara Katsumi). Blessed by working in a monster rich forest, Kikuru can easily take care of any and all quests, but decides to up and quit his job after his best friend announces he’s getting married. The reason? Early onset midlife crisis. Fearing he’s wasting his youth, Kikuru wants to do something to make a mark, but his retirement plans get rudely upended after the local guild requests he help out the equally young Hitamu Kyan (Isobe Karin) learn his monster hunting duties and take over his job. As any experienced employee can attest, onboarding isn’t always the easiest of tasks, and with Hitamu proving utterly hopeless and a permanent magnet for monsters, Kikuru’s hope for a new life may be less than realizable.

A couple of things to note about Futoku no Guild. Firstly it’s not an isekai (I know, incredible right?), and second, it’s ecchi. Very ecchi indeed. This one is basically what happens if you take Ishuzoku Reviewers, replace the brothels with good old-fashioned adventuring, and have the main male cast play gatekeeper for the accompanying girls. All your fan service and near-hentai moments will come courtesy of monsters siccing themselves on Hitamu (among other girls), all the while Kikuru keeps up the straight man act and tries to make it home in one piece. It’ll be raucous, it’ll be ribald, and oh yes, it will easily be funny (at least if you like these sorts of series), particularly when remembered studio TNK and director Asaoka Takuya were the leading production forces behind Kaiyari. Basically don’t expect this to be a show for everyone, but if you need your seasonal ecchi fix you need look no further than this.

Watching This: Pancakes Excitement Level: Average
Futoku no Guild Promotional Videos ▼

Mushikaburi Hime | 虫かぶり姫
Bibliophile PrincessTop
https://mushikaburihime.com/
Animation: Madhouse Premiere: October 6th, 2022
Genre: Romance Airtime (GMT+9): Thursdays at 23:30
Episodes: 12 Station: TOKYO MX
Information Links: AniDB, ANN Encyclopedia, MyAnimeList, Syoboi, Wikipedia (EN), Wikipedia (JP)
Join the conversation @mushikaburihime

Preview by Gabie

Mushikaburi-hime or Bibliophile Princess is, undoubtedly, the biggest hidden gem of this season–for those of us who love a slow-paced court romance. Set in an alternative world, in a European-ish kingdom, we are introduced to the two main characters: Elianna Bernstein (Ueda Reina) and Crown Prince Christopher Selkirk Asherald (Kimura Ryouhei) as they enter a consensual fake engagement agreement. On Elianna’s end, she’s been offered unperturbed peace and quiet, as well as unlimited access to the extensive, renowned and historical Royal Library. An offer she couldn’t refuse. She who is known amongst nobility as the Bibliophile Princess, a title that goes beyond being a simple ‘bookworm’. As for Christopher’s offer, it’s done, so he may free from the nuisance of having to search for a future bride, something he currently finds himself being pressured to do by his mother and nobles of his court.

Slow-paced period shoujo anime are genuinely rare to come by. At the top of my head I can think of only two titles that would fit this category: Hakushaku to Yousei and Eikoku Koi Monogatari Emma! And as someone who has an actual preference for the niche, I hope we get to see more of those (maybe even manhwa turned into anime!), gods know we have many publications that us obscure fans would love to see in the big screen. This beautiful and heart-warming tale of introverted love, is based on an ongoing light novel of the same name and has Madhouse taking the reins of the project.

Watching This: Gabie Excitement Level: Limited
Mushikaburi Hime Promotional Videos ▼

Akiba Maid Sensou | アキバ冥途戦争
Akiba Maid WarTop
https://akibamaidwar.com/
Animation: P.A. Works Premiere: October 6th, 2022
Genre: Comedy, Slice-of-Life Airtime (GMT+9): Thursdays at 24:00
Episodes: 12 Station: TOXYO MX
Information Links: AniDB, ANN Encyclopedia, MyAnimeList, Syoboi, Wikipedia (EN), Wikipedia (JP)
Join the conversation @akbmaidwar

Preview by Pancakes

Spring 1999. The 90s are on their way out, a new millennium beckons, and Y2K is an ever-present fear of the non-techie in your crew. And Japanese culture, well, keeps up the same. In Akihabara it’s a spring of maids, where all shapes and sizes, types and personalities are about and all competing for the love, fame, and simple attention of Akihabara’s denizens. It is here where the new maid café Ton Tokoton (colloquially known as Butagoya, the Pig’s Hut) opens its doors for the first time and new girl Wahira Nagomi (Kondou Reina) starts her adventure as a maid. What seems like an industry full of fun on the outside though is anything but in practice, and as Nagomi will soon learn being a maid in Akihabara will take more than simple passion and perseverance to truly succeed with.

Maid and maid cafes, there are arguably no bigger tropes in anime these days, and with fully fledged series such as Blend-S, Gochuumon, or hell even Kaichou wa Maid-sama it’s not hard seeing why. Akiba Maid Sensou is simply the latest series embracing the concept, though unlike its thematic brethren this one looks to be sacrificing slice-of-life and romance for comedy. Whole heaps on comedy. The promotional material available shows this one intends on going full slapstick (humour-based censoring is always a good sign), and with P.A. Works doing animation duty alongside Cygames supposedly using it as the basis for a mobile game, don’t be surprised if the underlying story here winds up getting a little crazy. Hell it’s already teasing a panda mascot as key character and you know where that is likely headed. In short don’t expect Akiba Maid Sensou to be giving its season mates a serious run for the money, but you definitely won’t have to look further than this for your seasonal comedy fix.

Watching This: Pancakes Excitement Level: Optimistic
Megaton-kyuu Musashi (2022) | メガトン級ムサシ (2022)
Megaton Musashi Season 2Top
https://www.megaton-musashi.jp/portal/anime/
Animation: OLM Premiere: October 7th, 2022
Genre: Sci-Fi Airtime (GMT+9): Fridays at 22:00
Episodes: 12 Station: TOKYO MX
Information Links: AniDB, ANN Encyclopedia, MyAnimeList, Syoboi, Wikipedia (EN), Wikipedia (JP)
Join the conversation @musashi_project

Preview by Princess Usagi

They say that ignorance is bliss, which is especially true if you are living in a post-apocalyptic world as Yamato Ichidaiji (Masuda Toshiki) and a group of other teenagers are. Aliens have destroyed most of humanity, transforming it into a place unfit for earthlings. Humans taking refuge in Ixia go about their daily life as usual, having had their memories wiped. A subset of this population is selected to pilot mecha to launch counterattacks against the enemy aliens. Thus, Ichidaiji begins to discover the true reality of the world he lives in and the destiny he is called to.

Although the animation wasn’t much to write home about, the story itself drew me in and I am looking forward to the second season. As for the staffing, not much is listed yet for the second season other than OLM staying on as studio, but it should be pretty much on par with the previous one. Even though the first season was not broadcast with any sort of official English translation (the video game this is partnered with also has no translation), it is worth catching up with if you can (you can find the raws on the game company’s official Youtube channel).If you are a fan of mecha or niche anime, you should check this out if you have the resources to do so.

Watching This: No one yet. Excitement Level: Average
Seiken Densetsu: Legend of Mana – The Teardrop Crystal | 聖剣伝説
Legend of Mana -The Teardrop Crystal-Top
http://mana-lom-tc.com/
Animation: Graphinica Premiere: October 7th, 2022
Genre: Fantasy Airtime (GMT+9): Fridays at 25:25
Episodes: Station: MBS・TBS
Information Links: AniDB, ANN Encyclopedia, MyAnimeList, Syoboi, Wikipedia (EN), Wikipedia (JP)
Join the conversation @LoM_anime

Preview by FJ Freeman

Without much info to go by, let alone a synopsis at the time of this writing, Seiken Densetsu: Legend of Mana – The Teardrop Crystal is bound to be at least an interesting watch.

Originally being adapted from the PS1 game, now playable on everything from PC, PS4, and NSW, Legend of Mana is set in the fictional world of Fa’Diel, where the Mana Tree, a recurring motif in The Legend of Mana series, and the giver of mana and life for this world, was burned down almost entirely nine centuries prior to the events of the story. Now a war has erupted between the faeries, humans, and others seeking the power of mana that was left in this world.

That is but a basic synopsis of what I retain from playing the game not so many moons ago, however, who’s to say the anime will follow the original plot of the game, or be more interested in telling its own unique story with the same characters and setting. Whatever the case my personal excitement for this one is through the roof, as it’s not every day Square Enix properties get the proper anime treatment, and when they do, they’re mostly treated like B-Side projects that are made because management demanded new marketing material.

With the rise of shows like Arcane based on the League of Legend lore and story, hopefully, SQE sees the opportunity is ripe – but only when the project is treated with high quality and standards will I shed a small tear at the though of maybe one day being able to see a CGI show produced by Crystal Dynamics themselves. Who knows how Seiken Densetsu – The Teardrop Crystal – will turn out, but I will be watching with bated breath hoping that it’s a good turnaround for the production team and SQE themselves.

Watching This: FJ Freeman, Pancakes Excitement Level: Optimistic
Seiken Densetsu: Legend of Mana – The Teardrop Crystal Promotional Videos ▼

Mairimashita! Iruma-kun (2022) | 魔入りました! 入間くん (2022)
Welcome to Demon School! Iruma-kun 3rd SeasonTop
https://www6.nhk.or.jp/anime/program/detail.html?i=iruma
Animation: BN Pictures Premiere: October 8th, 2022
Genre: Comedy, Fantasy Airtime (GMT+9): Saturdays at 18:25
Episodes: 2 cour likely Station: NHK-E
Information Links: AniDB, ANN Encyclopedia, MyAnimeList, Syoboi, Wikipedia (EN), Wikipedia (JP)
Join the conversation @nep_irumakun

Preview by Guardian Enzo

Not many series have raised themselves more in my esteem from humble beginnings than Mairimashita! Iruma-kun. I always liked it, but for a while dismissed it as kind of a pleasant trifle. By the end of the first season I’d come to realize what a gem it was (and what a mistake I’d made in stopping my coverage of it). By the end of the second season it was comfortably a year-end top ten series, and only the intense competition fall seems likely to bring causes any doubt that the third season will be too.

Why is that? Partly because, like many shounen titles, it starts off a little slowly before coming into its own. But it’s also because Iruma-kun is a show that slowly worms itself into your consciousness, and eventually you’re warn down by it’s cheeky humor and overarching positivity. It’s a series where the hero is an incredibly good and nice person, and good things happen to him as a direct result of that. And that, dear readers, is a lot rarer than you think. And my goodness, what a supporting cast. The cherry on top is the truly inspired way Sunrise has adapted the manga, using the power of anime to enhance the charms of the series beyond what’s possible on the printed page.

Mairimashita! Iruma-kun will no doubt be pretty overlooked by Western audiences this fall – even bigger names will be too, given the hype level attached to a few big titles. But kid yourself not – this is a massively popular series in Japan. It airs in an expensive time-slot (dinnertime on Saturday), has received immediate sequel announcements twice, and – in addition to the title itself generating really big manga sales – it now has a spinoff manga that’s doing very well. This is the shounen giant hardly anyone in the English-speaking fanbase talks about, but they should – it’s a deserving success story.

Watching This: Choya, Guardian Enzo, Princess Usagi Excitement Level: Established
Mairimashita! Iruma-kun (2022) Promotional Videos ▼

Bocchi the Rock! | ぼっち・ざ・ろっく!Top
https://bocchi.rocks/
Animation: Clover Works Premiere: October 8th, 2022
Genre: Music, Slice-of-Life Airtime (GMT+9): Saturdays at 24:00
Episodes: 12 Station: TOKYO MX
Information Links: AniDB, ANN Encyclopedia, MyAnimeList, Syoboi, Wikipedia (EN), Wikipedia (JP)
Join the conversation @BTR_anime

Preview by FJ Freeman

Boochi the Rock, or by loosely translating it, would mean something along the lines of Lonley Girl The Rock. The premise is simple: A group of friends formed by their equal love for music. Gotou Hitori (Aoyama Yoshino) is a lonely high school girl who just started learning how to play the guitar. She started learning because her dream is to one day be in a band. But she’s so shy that she has barely made a single friend! However, her dream might come true only after meeting Ijichi Nijika (Suzushiro Sayumi), a girl who plays the drums and is looking for a new guitar player to join her band.

Wholesome vibes abound! This certainly holds a lot of promise as it’s the newest foray into music anime by powerhouse studio CloverWorks following in the footsteps of the big hole in our collective hearts left by Kyoto Animation with shows like K-On and Lucky Star.

Based on the manga by the same name, created by Aki Hamaji, Bocchi the Rocki seems like it’s guaranteed to be a good time, with cute characters and interesting drama that is bound to happen between the group members. It seems like this is ready for fun times, as well as a journey filled with passion and music to boot!

Watching This: No one yet. Excitement Level: Average
Bocchi the Rock! Promotional Videos ▼

Yowamushi Pedal: Limit Break | 弱虫ペダル LIMIT BREAKTop
http://yowapeda.com/
Animation: TMS Entertainment Premiere: October 8th, 2022
Genre: Sports Airtime (GMT+9): Saturdays at 24:00
Episodes: Station: NHK
Information Links: AniDB, ANN Encyclopedia, MyAnimeList, Syoboi, Wikipedia (EN), Wikipedia (JP)
Join the conversation @yowapeda_anime

Preview by Guardian Enzo

It’s been more than four years since Yowamushi Pedal has graced TV screens, hard as that is to believe. Mind you it did have a movie in that interim, and the manga continues to be a pretty big powerhouse. It doesn’t reach quite the commercial Himalayas of Haikyuu, but it’s a big success. It broke the record for most tables at Comiket a few years ago (that may have been re-broken since), which gives you an idea of how large – and devoted – the fanbase is.

For my taste, I always preferred Yowapeda to Haikyuu – not by a lot, but it just connects with me a little more. Onoda is a great protagonist (both characters that made Yamashita Daiki a star return this season), and while the series suffered a bit with the loss of the third-year students, throughout four seasons its level has remained pretty high. Yowapeda is a bit unusual among sports manga in focusing on a sport many people partake in even as adults – cycling — which makes it very relatable. Ironically, it may be lucky in being slightly less popular than Haikyuu – big enough to get sequels, not big enough for the production committee to screw it over in making a cash grab by opting to conclude it theatrically.

Watching This: Guardian Enzo Excitement Level: Established
Yowamushi Pedal: Limit Break Promotional Videos ▼

Blue Lock | ブルーロックTop
https://bluelock-pr.com/
Animation: 8bit Premiere: October 8th, 2022
Genre: Action, Sports Airtime (GMT+9): Saturdays at 25:30
Episodes: Station: TV Asahi
Information Links: AniDB, ANN Encyclopedia, MyAnimeList, Syoboi, Wikipedia (EN), Wikipedia (JP)
Join the conversation @BLUELOCK_PR

Preview by Princess Usagi

In the aftermath of losing World Cup after World Cup, a newly hired coach for the Japanese team, Ego Jinpachi (Kamiya Hiroshi) determines to up the team game. He focuses his efforts and hopes on a single position-the striker. Go big or go home is the name of the game. Promising young strikers such as Isagi Yoichi (Ura Kazuki) are lured to Ego’s Blue Lock-an insulated training arena where the players compete against each other. Fighting his way to the top, the winner becomes the Japanese team’s striker while the losers are permanently barred from membership. Struggling with recent failure, Isagi is hungry to overcome all hurdles and become the best striker. Will he win his way to the top or go home, riding on the ashes of his dreams?

Having recently picked up the manga, I was intrigued by how they took an atypical sports route with the death match feel of battle royale-like competition. Normally in team sports series, the focus is on the team working together. Blue Lock totally turns it on its head, questioning the worth of teamwork and how much could be accomplished just by indulging in egoism on the field. It looks promising that the scriptwriter, Kishimoto Taku, previously worked on the sports anime powerhouse Haikyuu!!, raising hopes that the writing will be a good match for this gripping sports drama. I would recommend this to any soccer/sports fan, and even if you’re not, you still might find something in this unique take on the genre.

Watching This: Choya, Guardian Enzo, Gabie, Princess Usagi Excitement Level: Optimistic
Blue Lock Promotional Videos ▼

Fuufu Ijou, Koibito Miman. | 夫婦以上, 恋人未満.
More than a Couple, Less than Lovers.Top
https://fuukoi-anime.com/
Animation: Studio Mother Premiere: October 9th, 2022
Genre: Comedy, Romance Airtime (GMT+9): Sundays at 22:00
Episodes: 12 Station: AT-X
Information Links: AniDB, ANN Encyclopedia, MyAnimeList, Syoboi, Wikipedia (EN), Wikipedia (JP)
Join the conversation @fuukoi_anime

Preview by Zaiden

Yakuin Jirou (Yamashita Seiichirou) is another one of those run of the mill otakus who has never had a girlfriend through his 18 years of existence. In his heart, he holds a fiercely burning torch for his childhood friend Sakurazaka Shiori (Miyashita Saki). Scared of being rejected into these ether regions known as ‘The Friendzone’, he has valued maintaining the status quo and has never made a move – in spite of how obvious it is from the outside that his feelings are indeed requited. As it turns out, their high school runs a module called ‘The Couples Practical’, some sort of malarky from the Japanese government to try and band-aid fix the plummeting population levels as successive generations of Japanese citizens have less and less kids. Enter Watanabe Akari (Oonishi Saori), a popular gyaru who has nothing but disdain towards an otaku like Jirou, who is hopelessly in love with Minami-kun. The Top 10 students in the rankings will be allowed to change their pairing – although it will involve doing extremely lovey dovey activities that both might feel bashful about. With Jirou and Akari now being on the same page, looking to swap partners away from each other to their respective crushes, will they be able to succeed or will unexpected developments change their destiny?

When I was younger, I might have felt swayed by this sort of romance sub-plot. These days, I’d say these kind of premises struggle to capture my interest. At least both protagonists seem sincere enough, where neither seem like they beat around the bush much, I wouldn’t be surprised to see this story following a progression where they slowly develop feelings for each other. Having seen that many times, I don’t think Fuufu Ijou sets out to achieve anything new that would spark my interest. Though the promotional visual arts look vibrantly colourful, and some may find the character designs appealing. As for the production side of things, studio MOTHER is quite new, in terms of complete anime productions. I won’t say they’re cranking out masterpieces on the fly, but it is noteworthy that they salvaged the second season of Arifureta, following that franchise’s first season debacle. On the flipside, Yamamoto Junichi (Ninja Batman, Otona no Bouguya-san, Anemone) has only churned out sub-par shows as a director, so the jury will be out on this one even if he’s under the supervision of old school veteran director Kato Takao (To Love-Ru, Pandora Hearts, Busou Renkin). If you like straight-laced love triangles, you’d do well check this show out for Fall 2022.

Watching This: Pancakes Excitement Level: Average
Fuufu Ijou, Koibito Miman. Promotional Videos ▼

Bleach: Sennen Kessen Hen | BLEACH: 千年血戦篇
Bleach: Thousand-Year Blood War ArcTop
https://bleach-anime.com/
Animation: Studio Pierrot Premiere: October 10th, 2022
Genre: Action, Adventure Airtime (GMT+9): Mondays at 24:00
Episodes: 4 cour (split) Station: TV Tokyo
Information Links: AniDB, ANN Encyclopedia, MyAnimeList, Syoboi, Wikipedia (EN), Wikipedia (JP)
Join the conversation @BLEACHanimation

Preview by Zephyr

Following an assortment of filler arcs and diminishing popularity after catching up to the source material, the Bleach anime series was unceremoniously canceled in 2012. A full decade later, Bleach makes its triumphant return and aims to give the series a proper conclusion by adapting its final arc: The Thousand-Year Blood War. As with its predecessor, Kurosaki Ichigo (Morita Masakazu) will continue to be the series’ focal character after developing his Shinigami powers to stop an assortment of threats to Soul Society throughout the original series. Bleach: Sennen Kessen-hen will be directed by Taguchi Tomohisa (Kino no Tabi, Sousei no Onmyouji, and the Persona 3 Movies) and will revolve around the Quincy, who reveal themselves following a series of incidents involving disappearing souls and Hollow murders. Now calling themselves the Wandenreich, they declare that Soul Society will be destroyed in five days. Studio Pierrot will return to helm this adaptation along with Sagisu Shirou for music, and Kudou Masashi (character design) from the original series.

Part of me still can’t believe we’re getting a proper animated finale to Bleach after all this time, but I’m glad that it is. No one denies that the original anime series (and in part, the source material it was based off of) had its fair share of issues toward the latter part of their respective runs. Fillers, questionable developments, and catching up to the source material contributed to a lot of unfortunate problems and were only some of the things that led to drop in its popularity. However, the series was once considered the one of the “big three” in Shounen, and there was certainly a time—especially during the Soul Society arcs of season two and three—where it deserved to be. Given that distinction, it always felt strange that Bleach was the only one of the three that never got a proper conclusion. So it’s fitting to see that with Bleach: Sennen Kessen-hen, this will no longer be the case, and I think everyone’s going to be in for a treat—especially those that have somehow still not read the manga’s ending. For one, the finale arc was a significant step up in quality over the arcs that came before it. Bringing back the same studio and having a majority of the staff and cast reprise their roles will help fans get back into the series quickly and if the trailer’s any indication, the animation is top notch. Given the sheer amount of content, fillers won’t be a thing to worry about, and if the quotes were right we could end up with a kind of “definitive edition” where we get additional scenes that Kubo Tite wanted to fit in originally but couldn’t, covering fights and some developments that were just left off-screen in the manga. So there’s certainly a lot to look forward to and you can bet that I’ll be watching this all the way.

Watching This: Choya, FJ Freeman Excitement Level: Established
Bleach: Sennen Kessen Hen Promotional Videos ▼

Chainsaw Man | チェンソーマンTop
https://chainsawman.dog/
Animation: MAPPA Premiere: October 11th, 2022
Genre: Action, Horror Airtime (GMT+9): Tuesdays at 24:00
Episodes: 12 Station: TV Tokyo
Information Links: AniDB, ANN Encyclopedia, MyAnimeList, Syoboi, Wikipedia (EN), Wikipedia (JP)
Join the conversation @CHAINSAWMAN_PR

Preview by Choya

Editor’s Note: Yes, this season is confirmed 12 episodes.

In an alternate 1997, the general populace is frequently ravaged by devils born from human fears. While some might be born from innocent common fears, more sinister Devils dwell to embody abject human suffering. A destitute teenager named Denji (Kukunosuke Toya) has done just about anything he could to try to cover the mafia debt he inherited from his deceased father, ranging from doing odd jobs to donating organs. With nothing to his name but a Devil manifested from the fear of chainsaws known as Pochita, he initially became a freelance Devil Hunter for easy money. But it’s not enough. When debt collectors come to take his life, Pochita saves Denji by fusing into him, transforming him into the devil-human hybrid known as Chainsaw Man. Because of his new-found abnormality, he catches the attention of Makima (Kusunoki Tomori), the head of Public Safety Division 4 head, who coerces him to work under her as a Public Safety Devil Hunter. With the promise of humane living conditions and a potential relationship with Makima, Denji is locked into a life of passion, pain, and Devil-slaying.

IT’S HAPPENING! At long last, the long-teased adaptation from MAPPA is slated to come out within the next few months. Originally, I was unsure if it was going to be like any other shounen out there when I’ve seen it recommended around, but when I marathoned the manga while I was fighting COVID, I stumbled across one of the coolest, off-beat action stories I’ve gone through in recent years. It leans into the disgusting, morbid reality of a world where humanity’s greatest fears can manifest into brutal demons without losing its macabre sense of humor. There’s a sense of both juvenile innocence and meaningful introspection trapped in the pages of this blood-soaked manga, and I couldn’t get enough of it. Right from the get-go, it looks like the tone, voice acting, and animation are going to be on-point, and with the staff’s adamant response towards not toning down the bloodier imagery of the manga, it’ll be exciting to see what becomes of Chainsaw Man when it revs up for the Fall season.

Watching This: Choya, Guardian Enzo, FJ Freeman, Gabie, Pancakes, Princess Usagi Excitement Level: High
Chainsaw Man Promotional Videos ▼

Renai Flops | 恋愛フロップスTop
https://loveflops.com/
Animation: Passione Premiere: October 12th, 2022
Genre: Comedy, Romance Airtime (GMT+9): Wednesdays at 25:00
Episodes: 12 Station: TOKYO MX
Information Links: AniDB, ANN Encyclopedia, MyAnimeList, Syoboi, Wikipedia (EN), Wikipedia (JP)
Join the conversation @loveflops_pr

Preview by Gabie

“Somebody once said: just like everything that has a beginning has an end, if there are encounters, there are also farewells.” We can only hope the writing of this show won’t be as inane and hackneyed as the statement above. From the minds of “If there are four walls, there is a room.” comes the love story of average high school student Kashiwagi Asahi (Oosaka Ryouta) and his love interests: cheerful A student, Izumisawa Aoi (Itou Miku); tsundere Amelia Irving (Taketatsu Ayana); tomboy baker, Ilya Ilyukhin (Takahashi Rie); gentle and reliable homeroom teacher, Bai Mongfa (Kanemoto Hisako) and rising model, Karin Istel (Kouno Marika).

This original animation by studio Passione (Higurashi series, Citrus and Mieruko-chan) is directed by Nagayama Nobuyoshi and possible watchers are in high debate over whether this one will prove to be a deconstruction of the harem genre, revealing a big psychological twist–the thread at MAL is on fire! Will Renai Flops be different from other harems? That’s something for you to find out!

Watching This: Choya, Pancakes Excitement Level: Optimistic
Renai Flops Promotional Videos ▼

Urusei Yatsura (2022) | うる星やつら (2022)
Top
https://uy-allstars.com/
Animation: David Production Premiere: October 13th, 2022
Genre: Comedy, Romance Airtime (GMT+9): Thursdays at 24:55
Episodes: 46 Station: Fuji TV
Information Links: AniDB, ANN Encyclopedia, MyAnimeList, Syoboi, Wikipedia (EN), Wikipedia (JP)
Join the conversation @uy_allstars

Preview by Choya

When an alien race known as Oni lands on the fictional Japanese town of Tomobiki Town, they opt to give humans a fighting chance instead of invading the planet wholesale. They wish to select one human to compete in a game of Tag with the leader’s daughter, Princess Lum (Uesaka Sumire). Their computer system selects Moroboshi Ataru (Kamiya Hiroshi), an unlucky high school student who is as lecherous as he is lousy. When Ataru’s girlfriend Miyake Shinobu (Uchida Maaya) pledges to marry him if she wins, he manages to find Lum and tag her. But just as Ataru plans to pop the question to Shinobu in celebration, Lum misinterprets the situation and gleefully accepts Ataru’s hand in marriage. Ataru’s bad luck and perverted behavior come back to bite him as Shinobu loses interest in Ataru for his unfaithfulness and he’s not very interested in Lum. In fact, Lum often has to punish Ataru through electric shocks every time he flirts with other girls. Unfortunately, the promise of domesticity with an alien doesn’t stop Ataru from attracting the attention of all of the weirdos in the galaxy, from school fan clubs to extraterrestrial foes.

The influence of Urusei Yatsura cannot be overstated. It helped kickstart the career of Takahashi Rumiko, one of the most prolific mangaka out there with her work on this, Ranma 1/2, Inu Yasha, and so many more stories. It inspired several OVAs and films, including the mind-bending “Beautiful Dreamer”. I’m sure if you’ve stumbled into a City Pop playlist anytime recently on YouTube, you might’ve had your very own brush-in with Lum, Ataru, and Shinobu, considering how they’ve become synonymous with anime culture in the 1980s. It’s almost hard to imagine what the anime landscape would be like if Lum Invader wasn’t there to inspire generations and generations of manga about out-of-this-world dream girls. In a year where anime audiences swooned over Karin, Komi, Takagi, Uzaki, Nazuna, Chizuru, Vermeil, Lilith, Albedo, and Shikimori, it’s fitting that we’d cap off the year with the OG fantasy girl, Lum. It’s such a seminal piece in anime that, from the get-go, the remake was ordered for 46 episodes of four cours, two of which begin their run this Fall. And with David Production behind the wheel, it’s shaping up to be the perfect adaptation of a classic when it invades this Fall season.

Watching This: Choya, Guardian Enzo, Pancakes, Princess Usagi Excitement Level: Optimistic
Urusei Yatsura (2022) Promotional Videos ▼

4-nin wa Sorezore Uso o Tsuku | 4人はそれぞれウソをつく
Four People and Their Respective LiesTop
https://4uso-anime.com/
Animation: Studio Flad Premiere: October 15th, 2022
Genre: Comedy, Slice-of-Life Airtime (GMT+9): Saturdays at 26:00
Episodes: 11 Station: ABC
Information Links: AniDB, ANN Encyclopedia, MyAnimeList, Syoboi, Wikipedia (EN), Wikipedia (JP)
Join the conversation @4uso_anime

Preview by Gabie

Have you hidden a part of yourself away? Wondering what it might mean if someone saw it? Well, that’s pretty much the plot of Four People and Their Respective Lies, or at least the little we know about it. Four classmates, and four secrets–each more absurd than the next. But we do know it’s this is a slice of life comedy that follows the story of four eccentric girls: Chiyo (Murakami Natsumi), Rikka (Tanaka Chiemi), Sekine (Sakura Ayane), and Tsubasa (Han Megumi). Each of them has a certain something they hide from the world, and each other. We can only guess how the author will reveal these secrets to us and under what circumstances. Are they embarrassing? Are they dangerous? Maybe one of the secrets gives the girl leverage or a weird power that singles them out from other people? Or something easily misunderstood? Whatever it is, it seems we’re in for some hilarious collisions.

Studio Flad brings in Hoshino Makoto as director (who’s also directed Dame x Prince Anime Caravan) to take over this project. Based on a manga by the same name–written and illustrated by Kashihara Madoka and serialized in Bessatsu Shonen Magazine. In short, expect lots of quirky, cutesy (and just a tad disturbing) fun with this one this Fall.

Watching This: No one yet. Excitement Level: Average
4-nin wa Sorezore Uso o Tsuku Promotional Videos ▼

Fumetsu no Anata e (2022) | 不滅のあなたへ (2022)
To Your Eternity 2nd SeasonTop
https://www.anime-fumetsunoanatae.com/
Animation: Drive Premiere: October 23rd, 2022
Genre: Adventure, Supernatural Airtime (GMT+9): Sundays at 19:00
Episodes: 2 cour likely Station: NHK-E
Information Links: AniDB, ANN Encyclopedia, MyAnimeList, Syoboi, Wikipedia (EN), Wikipedia (JP)
Join the conversation @nep_fumetsu

Preview by Guardian Enzo

Brains Base picks up one big-name sequel in Golden Kamuy and loses one in Fumetsu no Anata e. I don’t know a lot about Studio Drive to be honest – they don’t have an extensive track record – and director Sayama Kiyoko’s extensive 20-year resume doesn’t include much in this role. The first season’s production values with a bit inconsistent, and generally in the “fine” category – frankly it’s hard to know what to expect in that department this go-around.

In terms of To Your Eternity itself, I’ll say this much – it had as wide a range between its best and worst episodes as any series in a long time. That too makes it very hard to know what to expect going forward, because the most likely explanation is simply that the manga material is responsible for that, and the anime is at the mercy of what it’s adapting. That whole “silk purse from a sow’s ear” thing.

For those reasons, Fumetsu no Anata e Season 2 may be the biggest wild card on the fall schedule. Season one snuck into my Top 10 list on the strength of a sublime first episode, great last episode, and one outstanding arc in-between. But that was only because 2021 was a pretty weak year depth-wise, and there was a lot of chaff mixed in with the wheat – the six-episode Jananda arc was shocking bad on every level, and that exacts a price. I would have had no idea what to expect from a second season even at the same studio with the same staff – now I’m truly at a loss. We’ll find out soon enough.

Watching This: Guardian Enzo, FJ Freeman, Princess Usagi Excitement Level: Optimistic
Fumetsu no Anata e (2022) Promotional Videos ▼

KanColle: Itsuka Ano Umi de | 艦これ いつかあの海で
KanColle: Someday in that SeaTop
https://kancolle-itsuumi.com/
Animation: ENGI Premiere: November 2022
Genre: Fantasy, Sci-Fi Airtime (GMT+9):
Episodes: 8 Station:
Information Links: AniDB, ANN Encyclopedia, MyAnimeList, Syoboi, Wikipedia (EN), Wikipedia (JP)
Join the conversation @anime_KanColle

Preview by Pancakes

Azur Lane might be the ship-girl game of choice these days, but the OG floating waifu collector in KanColle isn’t that forgotten yet. Now back in anime form some seven years (!!!) after its sequel announcement following its first season, KanColle: Itsuka Ano Umi de once again returns to a world at war where the seas are under constant threat from the Abyssal Fleet. To counter this ethereal enemy, so-called Kanmusu are employed, girls harbouring the spirits of Japanese warships who, thanks to specialized weaponry, can leverage their second souls to combat the Abyssal. For all this power, however, it’s not the easiest of duties, and as one Shigure (Tanibe Yumi) is about to learn, a duty also coming with no guarantee of survival.

Even for me, the self-professed military nerd at heart, it’s really hard singing too many praises about KanColle the anime. This was a show which seemingly made all the wrong choices for an adaptation: it played more to character quirks and one-liners than story, featured too many characters to keep track of, and also spent precious little time in keeping things straight for unfamiliar viewers. And that’s before getting into the story and its questionable developments. While the subsequent movie helped a little in improving this franchise’s fortunes, KanColle’s anime offerings to date are very much exclusively for its fans (particularly devoted fans), and this season right now looks to be the same. Outside of ENGI taking over the animation hotseat, the same massive array of ship girls are already confirmed to appear, KanColle’s divisive creator Tanaka Kensuke is once again drawing up the script, and this season only has eight confirmed episodes. Yes, eight. While I maintain surprises are always possible, until we see more this is one adaptation I thoroughly recommend tempering any expectations over.

Watching This: Pancakes Excitement Level: Limited
KanColle: Itsuka Ano Umi de 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 (less than 24 minutes per episode) 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. Shorts may or may not have a haikyuu synopsis; Passerby be fickle like that.

Air Date Title Haikyuu: by Passerby
10/07 Reiwa no Di Gi Charat | 令和のデ・ジ・キャラット
https://digicharat-reiwa.com/
AniDB, ANN Encyclopedia, MyAnimeList
More Di Gi Charat?!
It’s from last millennium!
Do you feel old yet?
10/09 Peter Grill to Kenja no Jikan Super Extra | ピーター・グリルと賢者の時間 Super Extra
http://petergrill-anime.jp/
AniDB, ANN Encyclopedia, MyAnimeList, Wikipedia (JP), Wikipedia (EN)
Execs fund sequels
By throwing darts at a board
While much too pent up.
10/10 Cool Doji Danshi | クールドジ男子
https://cooldoji-pr.com/
AniDB, ANN Encyclopedia, MyAnimeList, Wikipedia (EN)
‘Cool’ guys being dorks.
A Mr Darcy gag reel
That can last two cours.
10/10 Eikyuu Shounen | 永久少年
https://eternalboys.jp/
AniDB, ANN Encyclopedia, MyAnimeList, Wikipedia (EN)
“Middle-aged idols”
Don’t we call those “musicians”?
Just start a band, guys.
10/13 Aru Asa Dummy Head Mike ni Natte Ita Ore-kun no Jinsei | ある朝ダミーヘッドマイクになっていた俺クンの人生
https://orekun.jp/
AniDB, ANN Encyclopedia, MyAnimeList, Wikipedia (EN)
October Pui Pui Molcar: Driving School | PUI PUI モルカー DRIVING SCHOOL
https://molcar-anime.com/
AniDB, ANN Encyclopedia, MyAnimeList, Wikipedia (JP), Wikipedia (EN)
Hamster/car hybrids
Sins against God and Nature
Naturally, kids’ toys.
Fall 2022 Umayuru | うまゆる
https://umamusume.jp/anime/umayuru/
AniDB, ANN Encyclopedia, MyAnimeList, Wikipedia (JP), Wikipedia (EN)
Waifu racehorses.
Will their cuteness save them from
The glue factory?


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
09/13 Cyberpunk: Edgerunners
https://www.netflix.com/title/81054853
Netflix Release.
09/14 Yojouhan Time Machine Blues | 四畳半タイムマシンブルース
Tatami Time Machine Blues
https://yojohan-timemachine.asmik-ace.co.jp/
Episode 1-5 on Disney+.
Theater Release with Ep 6 on 9/14.
09/21 Gekijouban Jujutsu Kaisen 0 | 劇場版 呪術廻戦 0
Jujutsu Kaisen 0 Movie
https://jujutsukaisen-movie.jp/
BD/DVD Release.
09/25 Arifureta Shokugyou de Sekai Saikyou: Maboroshi no Bouken to Kiseki no Kaigou
ありふれた職業で世界最強 「幻の冒険と奇跡の邂逅」
Arifureta: From Commonplace to World’s Strongest Season OVA – Phantom Adventure and Miraculous Encounter
https://arifureta.com/
09/28 Macross Δ Movie 2: Zettai Live!!! | 劇場版マクロスΔ 絶対LIVE!!!!!!
https://v-storage.bnarts.jp/sp-site/macross_delta/
BD/DVD Release.
10/26 Goodbye, Don Glees! | グッバイ、ドン・グリーズ!
https://donglees.com/
BD/DVD Release.
11/16 Karakai Jouzu no Takagi-san Movie
劇場版「からかい上手の高木さん」
ENG: Teasing Master Takagi-san: The Movie
https://takagi3.me/
BD/DVD Release.
11/22 Tonikaku Kawaii: Seifuku | トニカクカワイイ ~制服~
Tonikawa: Over the Moon for You – Uniform
https://tonikawa.com/
11/25 Isekai Quartet Movie: Another World
劇場版 異世界かるてっと ~あなざーわーるど~
http://isekai-quartet.com/
BD/DVD Release.


Overall Impressions


 

While fall has always been (at least next to spring) one of anime’s strongest seasons, to say this one is anything but a juggernaut would be doing it a disservice. The sheer number of major franchises seeing adaptation or remake, the sheer number of sequels, and even the positive unknown of various other features makes for a season certain to top out the yearly charts in more than one way. We may not know exactly how everything on tap this time will play out or if every show can live up to expectations, but if even half of them do then compared to some recent seasons this one truly is one for the ages. And how shall we keep track of what’s likely to thrive or die? Why with our Excitement Levels of course!

In time-honoured tradition we’ll again let our Excitement Levels help gauge where we think things are going and what to anticipate. If you are someone with a packed schedule and need to make some tough choices about how many shows you can fit into a week, the Excitement Levels can be a useful guide in which shows to keep at the top of your “hope to watch” list 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 crash landing on its face down the stretch (as has been known to happen!).

As usual, these levels were arrived at by our totally not shady “Excitement Council” of Zephyr, Guardian Enzo, and Pancakes. 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, featuring less explored material, being 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.

  • Niche Excitement: N/A

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.

29 Comments

      1. @Tachi no, that will never be the case. All our posts, their content, and their images will forever be available for everyone to see.

        This early access period only affects previews and AOTY posts, and as noted to DmonHiro below isn’t permanent. This preview in particular will be available when people normally expect our previews to be up.

    1. @DmonHiro it’s not, as mentioned both in the preview excerpt and in our earlier site update our previews and AOTY will now have an early access period for our subscribers.

      To emphatically reinforce the point this post will be up for everyone September 16, which is at the usual time (~2 weeks) our previews go live before the next season.

        1. No worries! It’s why I’m not a big lover of Patreon, the site lacks the tools to host posts like this forcing us to run the early access directly on RC itself.

          Ideally I would’ve had the early access on Patreon alone so misunderstandings could’ve been avoided and readers wouldn’t doubt our future intentions.

  1. Did panic but I like this idea – it can help support a bit as long as you then make it available as per normal.

    @Angelus – Estara gratis en la fecha que normalmente lo tienen,(parra el preview) ya han dicho que el 16 de Septiembre estara disponible gratis

    Serjio
    1. As long as I’m around all posts on this site will be available for everyone when typically expected, period.

      I’m personally not a lover of gated content so it’s why we went with this early access period and allowing subscribers to influence our coverage choices and/or make commission requests. This way those who want our stuff right away or see something covered have the avenue to do so, all the while helping us continue providing that content freely and as normal for everyone else.

      Not a perfect arrangement, but it ensures RC won’t be going anywhere anytime soon!

  2. -Eminence in Shadow
    -Gundam Witch from Mercury
    -Spy X Family S2
    -Chainsawman

    Its been a while since there are 4 series that I am going to follow. Especially excited for Eminence in Shadow as I am a fan of the source material, Hopefully the series is decently adapted.

    Flappy
      1. Instead of Konosuba, I would place Eminence in Shadow to be closer to Overlord. Where the comedy only pertains to the main character while the rest of the cast deals with the world situation with all the seriousness they could muster, resulting in various misunderstanding.

        Flappy
  3. I’m actually kinda excited for the Kancolle anime based on the promotional material so far. The first series made the mistake of not upping the drama even when it had all the ingredients to do so, the closest was when Kisaragi was sunk and then nothing came of it.

    The movie upped the ante by making a more contain and coherent story that should have been the central narrative of the series where the Abyssals are lifted from the generic “GRAW DESTROY HUMANITY!” to tragic villains when their origin is revealed and the shipgirls are forced to wonder if their fight will ever end because of it.

    I am hoping the new series will take that concept and run more seriously with it, because as much as it was lambasted, Azur Lane’s anime still had spades over Kancolle owing to the fact that its villains, the Sirens posed a credible threat beyond being lumbering rampaging monsters unlike the Abyssals that were showcased as a force of nature type enemy but had no development at all.

    Gawrshness
    1. Will watch this one while clinging on to the hope that the writers make good use of their namesake ships’ histories to flesh out their characters and write a compelling story.

      Umamusume Pretty Derby showed us how to make great characters and stories using their IRL counterparts’ racing careers as the source material. I hope Kancolle does the same.

      Magnus Tancred
  4. I’m an entire season late to notice (I’ve not started any of the previous season anime), but my biggest shock was Passerby coming back!

    Me scrolling down the previews, going like, eh? this writing style…? Seeing who wrote it and exclaiming in pleasant surprise. Such nostalgia. Such haiku.

    The amount of Isekai doesn’t surprise me but kind of disappoints me still. I’ve read a good amount of isekai of the otome-villainess genre variety (and as an otomege player I assure you nothing from this genre is anything like otome games), but the good ones are hard to find and the only ones getting adapted happen to be ones I got bored of really quickly when I tried reading them. Oh well.

    The part about Fumetsu no anata e was very spot on. There were truly high highs and low lows, and having already experienced the adaptation of what was the personal peak of the manga for me, I’m happy to back out now. Though I do really remember some good parts even after so I wouldn’t say it’s not worth watching. I just don’t watch much now.

    At least I have Koukyuu no karasu and Mob to look forward to. And one or two I’ll check out the posts first before potentially diving into (thank you all for your efforts as always). The other good stuff seem to be sequels I’m too lazy to follow, unfortunately, so I’m usually either already reading them or way too behind to start…

    Juzi
  5. Sequels/Continuations
    Uzaki-chan wa Asobitai
    Spy x Family
    Pop Team Epic
    Yama no Susume

    Interested
    Bocchi the Rock
    Shinmai Renkinjutsushi no Tenpo Keiei
    Do It Yourself

    Give it an episode
    Chainsaw Man
    Kage no Jituryokusha ni Naritakute
    Akiba Maid Sensou

    Arche
  6. Uratsei Yatsura (original was great, but I’ve only seen the first dozen episodes, so eager to see more), Spy X Family (good 1st season), Chainsaw Man (sounds interesting, haven’t read manga), Reincarnated as a Sword (catgirl with magic sword…), Witch of Mercury (prologue was good), Koukyuu no Karusu, Kage no Jitsuryokusha ni Naritakute! (sounds like a fun comedy) and maybe Do it Yourself (nice artstyle)

    DP
  7. Wow… a remake of Uruseuyatsura after all these years. Practically it introduced me and my generation to anime here in Italy alongside Tatsunoko Production heroes and Nagai’s Giant Robots (yep, had anime since the late 70s here in Italy).

    It’s so much part of my growing up I cannot really explain it’s importance.

    I started studying japanese culture because I was fascinated by the various cultural figures and myth presented in the series. Brought me to a degree in japanese language with a thesis on folklore.

    Damn, I don’t know if I’m happy to see it a new, modern light or afraid they’ll botch it.

    We’ll see.

    Andhaka
  8. Will definitely watch: My Hero Academia, Spy x Family, Chainsawman, Gundam Witch from Mercury.

    Will maybe watch: The Eminence in Shadow.

    It’s kind of a hefty season from the start, which is a good thing. I was considering Bleach as well, but I haven’t caught up to the original anime (don’t have the time these days), so that’s not possible unfortunately.

  9. Yama no Susume. Sword Dad. maybe one or two other slice of cute girls doing cute things shows. Spy x Family is probably fine, but I’ve just lost interest in it.

    Nothing else here looks worth my time.

    Wanderer
  10. Ehh, I don’t really think the world is THAT dark and dreary, at least from my little pocket of it.

    Plan is to watch Pop Team Epic Season 2, Shinobi no Ittoki, and the somehow excluded Housing Complex C. May hook into Bibliophile Princess if a test-watch proves fruitful. Additionally, any other shows that manage to get a Toonami run in the next few months, which considering Crunchyroll’s stinginess may be unlikely (and considering their recent fiascos, a dodged bullet).

  11. This season is crazy. There’s so many to get excited for.

    Chainsaw Man
    Bluelock
    Mob Psycho S3
    Spy x Family S2
    LoGH S4
    Gundam
    Bleach
    To Your Eternity S2 (hopefully it recovers from it’s poor ending)

    Calan

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