1. New Gundam Series Announced for 2025
Sunrise and Khara, the studios behind Neon Genesis Evangelion and FLCL, have announced a new Gundam TV anime titled Mobile Suit Gundam GQuuuuuuX, set to premiere in 2025. Directed by Kazuya Tsurumaki, the series follows high school student Amate Yuzuriha, who becomes involved in mechanized mobile suit duels known as "Clan Battles" after meeting war refugee Nyaan. A feature-length edit of the initial episodes will debut in Japanese theaters on January 17, 2025, ahead of its TV broadcast.
2. 'Kaiju No. 8' Announces Compilation Film and Special Episode
Toho Animation has announced a compilation film for the anime Kaiju No. 8, scheduled for release in Japanese cinemas on March 28, 2025. The film will compile the 12 episodes of the first season and include an original episode titled "Hoshina's Day Off," focusing on Vice-Captain Soshiro Hoshina in a more relaxed setting. Additionally, a second season is confirmed for 2025, with streaming on Crunchyroll upon release.
3. 'Mononoke' Returns with New Feature Film
The 2007 anime series Mononoke has made a comeback with a new feature film, Mononoke the Movie: The Phantom in the Rain, which premiered on Netflix on November 28, 2024. The film continues the story of the enigmatic Medicine Seller as he confronts vengeful spirits, maintaining the series' distinctive psychedelic visuals and narrative style. Two sequels are planned for release in 2025.
4. Major Anime Piracy Website Halts New Content
Prominent anime piracy websites, such as GoGo Anime, have ceased adding new content. This development is part of a broader effort by Japanese companies, under the banner of the Content Overseas Distribution Association (CODA), and international partners to combat anime piracy. The shutdown of these sites is expected to drive fans toward legal streaming platforms, potentially benefiting the anime industry.
