Content creator, Voice actor in training & entertainment journalist specializing in Anime & Anime adjacent content. Follow me my content here, krystal_kitsune.bio.link
2K DCP Restoration of Anno’s 1998 Live-Action Debut Hits New York and Los Angeles THIS month!
In a groundbreaking moment for anime fans and Japanese cinema enthusiasts alike, Hideaki Anno’s LOVE & POP, his first-ever live-action feature, will have its first-ever North American theatrical release. The 1998 film, originally shot with handheld digital cameras, will be presented in a newly restored 2K DCP format with technical adjustments for its upcoming screenings.
LOVE & POP will debut at the IFC Center in New York City on February 21, followed by a release at the American Cinematheque’s Los Feliz 3 in Los Angeles starting February 23, with additional cities to be announced soon.
The premiere of the new restoration took place on February 1 at New York City’s Japan Society, marking a significant step in bringing this underappreciated gem to a wider audience.
Film Synopsis:
Set in July 1997, LOVE & POP follows Tokyo schoolgirl Hiromi and her friends as they spend their summer dating older men for money. With just a cellphone in hand, Hiromi embarks on a mission to raise ¥128,000, aiming to buy an expensive topaz ring before the mall closes for the day.
Based on the novel by Ryū Murakami, LOVE & POP is a daring exploration of youth and identity from Anno, best known as the creator of Neon Genesis Evangelion. The film’s radical approach to storytelling—filmed using handheld digital cameras, distorted lenses, and a mix of unconventional angles—offers a raw, immersive portrait of Japanese teenage life on the cusp of the 21st century. Despite being largely overlooked for years, LOVE & POP stands as a unique snapshot of a generation’s struggles with alienation and self-discovery.
Running Time: 110 minutes Theme Song: “Ano subarashii ai wo mouichido” by Asumi Miwa
LOVE & POP promises to be a visual and emotional experience for audiences, highlighting Anno’s bold approach to filmmaking before his iconic contributions to anime. Fans of his work in Evangelion will find much to appreciate in this unique live-action debut.
Subscribe to our articles, and don’t miss upcoming, exclusive content!
Celebrate Pokémon’s Legacy with Eevee-Themed Merchandise, Exclusive In-Game Distributions, and the Highly Anticipated Pokémon Presents Video Presentation
As Pokémon Day approaches on February 27, 2025, The Pokémon Company International has revealed a series of exciting plans to celebrate the enduring legacy of the Pokémon franchise. Trainers worldwide can look forward to a special Pokémon Presents video presentation, an Eevee-themed merchandise and experience lineup, and a variety of fan-centric activations.
Pokémon Day marks the anniversary of the release of Pokémon Red and Pokémon Green in Japan, and over the years, the franchise has become a cultural phenomenon, uniting Trainers of all ages. Now, Pokémon has its own national recognition, as the National Day Calendar has declared February 27 as National Pokémon Day, celebrating the franchise’s global impact.
Pokémon Presents on Pokémon Day:
On February 27, 2025, fans can tune in to the Pokémon Presents video presentation, which will be streamed at 6 a.m. PST on the official Pokémon YouTube and Twitch channels. Expect exciting updates and announcements across the entire Pokémon franchise that will leave fans eagerly anticipating what’s next.
Eevee-Themed Products and Experiences:
Year of Eevee at Pokémon Center: The Pokémon Center will spotlight the beloved Eevee and its many Evolutions with a collection of new product releases throughout 2025, including hand-painted figures of Vaporeon, Jolteon, and Flareon. There will also be Eevee plushies, kitchenware, and bundles featuring Eevee-themed items available throughout the year. Fans can visit the Pokémon Center online to check out these adorable new releases.
Flying-Tera Type Eevee Distribution: Fans who visit GameStop or Best Buy from now through February 27 can receive a distribution code for a Flying-Tera Type Eevee for use in Pokémon Scarlet and Pokémon Violet, while supplies last. More details are available at Pokemon.com/Eevee.
Pokémon GO: Special Eevee-Related Events: Through February 27, Pokémon GO is featuring special Eevee-themed PokéStops at participating retailers, including Target, GameStop, and Best Buy, with Lure Modules active to attract more Pokémon. From February 24 onward, fans can evolve their Eevee into Glaceon and Leafeon with special Lures available at these locations.
Pokémon Day Activations:
Pokémon Day at Pokémon League Locations: On Pokémon Day, Trainers of all ages can participate in non-competitive Play! Pokémon events at local Pokémon League locations. These events will feature games such as the Pokémon Trading Card Game (TCG), Pokémon video games, and Pokémon GO, providing a fun and friendly environment for Trainers to come together. Exclusive Pokémon Day 2025 League Celebration promo cards, featuring Sylveon, will be given to participants while supplies last.
Overtime Elite Semifinal Game with Pokémon Appearances: In a unique collaboration with Overtime, the Pokémon brand will take over the Overtime Elite Arena in Atlanta during the playoffs. On February 27, 2025, the Pokémon Day semifinals will be broadcast exclusively on Prime Video, with Pikachu and Gengar making appearances at halftime. Exclusive Pokémon apparel will also be available for purchase on Pokémon Day through the Overtime store.
Pokémon Animation to Celebrate Pokémon Day:
“Pokémon Horizons: Season 2—The Search for Laqua” Now on Netflix: Fans can catch up on Liko and Roy’s adventures in Pokémon Horizons: Season 2, available exclusively on Netflix in the U.S. Starting on Pokémon Day, the first season of Pokémon Horizons: The Series will also be available in Canada and Australia.
“Pokémon Concierge” Returns to YouTube: Pokémon Concierge, the stop-motion animated series that follows the story of a Pokémon Resort concierge and their Pokémon guests, will be available for streaming on the official Pokémon YouTube channel from February 21 through March 9, 2025. Additional episodes of the series are in production in collaboration with Netflix and dwarf studios.
With so much happening this Pokémon Day, Trainers have countless ways to join the celebration, whether through special events, exciting merchandise, or in-game rewards. Don’t forget to share your Pokémon Day experience online using #PokemonDay25 to join the global celebration of Pokémon’s continued success and influence!
Subscribe to our articles, and don’t miss upcoming, exclusive content!
Exclusive Merchandise, Charity Efforts, and More Await Fans at Beverly Center February 5–27, 2025
hololive Pop-Up store front at The Beverly Center, Los Angeles, CA | February 2025
COVER Corporation has brought the world of hololive English to Los Angeles with its exciting pop-up store at the Beverly Center, open NOW through February 27th, 2025. This marks the first hololive shop in the U.S. making this a must-visit for all hololive fans.
The limited-time event allows fans to purchase exclusive merchandise, celebrate their favorite VTubers, and gear up for Mori Calliope’s highly anticipated “Grimoire” concert at the Hollywood Palladium on February 26th.
The pop-up store features themed merchandise in honor of Valentine’s Day, Making the perfect opportunity for fans to express their admiration for their favorite talents during the season of love well after the 14th. Exclusive Valentine’s Day Merchandise features, Takanashi Kiara, Ouro Kronii, Nerissa Ravencroft, and Elizabeth Rose Bloodflame.
From Keychains and acrylic standees and apparel, the store showcases a range of items celebrating the creativity and charm of hololive’s diverse talents, making it a must-visit for fans of hololive.
In a show of support for the community, COVER Corporation will donate proceeds from the pop-up store, along with a $30,000 USD donation, to wildfire relief efforts in Los Angeles. This charitable effort gives fans a chance to contribute to a great cause while enjoying exclusive hololive merchandise.
Additionally, fans can prepare for Mori Calliope’s upcoming concert, “Grimoire,” with Mori Calliope-themed merchandise such as concert towels, CD albums, and Mori’s previous concerts on Bluray in addition to an exclusive concert glow stick available for purchase just in time for the concert!
This is your chance to join the fun and experience the highly anticipated pop up shop and purchase your exclusive merchandise, but you better be quick on visiting, as some items were already sold out when we visited the store! Other merchandise on display were only available as preorders, for more information ask a friendly staff member for help.
Can’t make it? Take the picture tour here,
1 / 61
Exclusive Merchandise Available*:
Valentine’s Day Exclusive Items
Valentine Pop-Up Hoodie (Takanashi Kiara, Ouro Kronii, Nerissa Ravencroft, Elizabeth Rose Bloodflame)
Valentine Pop-Up T-Shirt (Takanashi Kiara, Ouro Kronii, Nerissa Ravencroft, Elizabeth Rose Bloodflame)
Valentine Pop-Up Big Tote Bag (featuring Takanashi Kiara, Ouro Kronii, Nerissa Ravencroft, Elizabeth Rose Bloodflame)
Pre-Order Items
Valentine Pop-Up Life-Size Tapestry (Takanashi Kiara, Ouro Kronii, Nerissa Ravencroft, Elizabeth Rose Bloodflame)
Valentine Pop-Up Rubber Mat (featuring all four talents)
Exclusive Mori Calliopemerchandise
“Grimoire” Concert Merchandise
“Grimoire” Towel
“Grimoire” Glow Stic
“Grimoire” T-shirts (L and XL)
“Grimoire” Baseball Shirt
Mori Calliope Music Items
SHINIGAMI NOTE Standard Edition
SINDERELLA Limited Edition
JIGOKU 6 Limited Edition CD BOX SET
PHANTOMIME Limited Edition CD
New Underworld Order Standard Edition BD
Purchasing any Mori Calliope LP, CD, or Blu-ray will include an exclusive Mori Calliope waterproof sticker (one per item, while supplies last).
Shopping Perks
Purchases Over $70: A Greeting Ticket (one per transaction) for access to one of the scheduled Greeting Sessions.
Per Purchase (regardless of amount): Vinyl shopping bag with exclusive Valentine Key Art and Calliope Concert Key Art printed on the front and back.
Purchases Over $30: One sheet of Diecut Standee Stickers (random selection from Takanashi Kiara, Ouro Kronii, Nerissa Ravencroft, Elizabeth Rose Bloodflame, and Mori Calliope). *some merchandise may be sold out, visit the pop up store for more details.
Mori Calliope’s “Grimoire” Concert
Set to showcase Mori Calliope’s musical evolution and bold creative vision. Fans can experience the concert live at the Hollywood Palladium [SOLD OUT] or join the global audience via streaming platforms.
Concert Details:
Date: February 26, 2025 Venue: Hollywood Palladium, Los Angeles, CA Venue Tickets: Available [SOLD OUT] Streaming Tickets: Available on SPWN and Streaming+ Concert Website: grimoire.hololivepro.com
Stay tuned and use the official hashtag #holoPopLA to share your experience. Fans can also catch a sneak peek of the pop-up store by watching the trailer,
Subscribe to our articles, and don’t miss upcoming, exclusive content!
Shinichirō Watanabe is a renowned Japanese anime director, writer, and producer celebrated for his unique storytelling, music-blending, and unforgettable characters. Best known for his groundbreaking works Cowboy Bebop (1998) and Samurai Champloo (2004), Watanabe masterfully fuses action, music, and philosophy, creating timeless anime that continue to inspire fans worldwide.
His portfolio also includes acclaimed titles like Kids on the Slope (2012), Space Dandy (2014), and Carole & Tuesday (2019), each showcasing his signature style of deep narratives and genre-defying creativity. Most recently, he is making waves with his highly anticipated sci-fi thriller, Lazarus which is set to premiere this year exclusively on Netflix.
Watanabe was a Guest of Honor at this year’s Anime Los Angeles in Long Beach, California, and we had the incredible opportunity to sit down with him! In this exclusive interview, we dive into his latest project, Lazarus, and uncover the creative vision behind his newest masterpiece. Don’t miss this must-watch conversation with one of anime’s greatest storytellers!
Special thanks to Jo Ann Faustino, Takayuki Karahashi of The Green Room International, and Otaku Hourly for making this interview possible! I would also like to extend my gratitude to Vincent Reyes for their ongoing dedication and hard work as our Field Production Assistant, ensuring our interviews run seamlessly.
Subscribe to our articles, and don’t miss upcoming, exclusive content!
Pokémon trainers are in for a special surprise with the latest McDonald’s x Pokémon collaboration! From now through late February 2025, trainers can enjoy a 4-card Pokémon TCG booster pack and a fun sticker activity sheet with every, Pokémon themed Happy Meal.
Collect ALL 15 Cards
Here are the Pokémon TCG cards you can find in your Happy Meal:
For those in the United States, there’s even more excitement. By using the McDonald’s app to order a Happy Meal, customers will receive a code for in-game rewards in Pokémon Trading Card Game Pocket. The rewards include 24 pack hourglasses and 12 wonder hourglasses, which will enhance your gaming experience!
Here’s what you can find inside your Happy Meal:
Along with the TCG booster, fans will be able to discover a variety of exciting Pokémon Trading Card Game cards, adding to their collection and enhancing their in-game adventures. Be sure to opt in to McDonald’s emails and rewards before purchasing to make sure you get your code for the in-game goodies.
Don’t miss out on this tasty collaboration between McDonald’s and Pokémon—grab your Happy Meal and start collecting!
Subscribe to our articles, and don’t miss upcoming, exclusive content!
A fresh new trailer for Xenoblade Chronicles X: Definitive Edition has just dropped, offering fans a closer look at the thrilling sci-fi RPG set to launch onMarch 20. Originally released on the Wii U, this enhanced edition of the game is making its way to the Nintendo Switch with a variety of exciting updates, including improved visuals, new story elements, additional characters, and more unlockable Skell mechs.
The story of Xenoblade Chronicles X: Definitive Edition is set in the year 2054, following Earth’s destruction due to an intergalactic war between two alien races. Humanity’s survival hangs by a thread, with a small group of survivors aboard the USS White Whale crash-landing on the uncharted planet Mira. Players will step into the shoes of a member of BLADE, an organization dedicated to humanity’s survival within the New Los Angeles colony. Your mission: help restore humanity and explore the vast unknown of Mira.
Mira is a massive alien world brimming with diverse biomes, from expansive oceans and towering mountains to exotic jungles and everything in between. Players can explore this vast world, discovering hidden secrets, battling massive beasts, and witnessing the ecosystems of the planet come alive. As you progress, you’ll unlock your own Skell, a powerful exoskeleton that offers flight, advanced combat capabilities, and rapid overland transportation.
The trailer also revealed some exciting pre-order bonuses. Players who buy the digital version of the game from the Nintendo eShop or My Nintendo Store before April 6 will receive the Exploration Support Pack. This pack includes a range of bonus items such as:
100,000 credits
Advanced Iron Knife (Melee weapon)
Advanced Storm Assault Rifle (Ranged weapon)
Full Survival Armor Series
Multiple weapon and armor augments to enhance combat abilities
Additionally, physical or digital copies purchased from GameStop will grant players a code to redeem these bonus items on the Nintendo eShop.
Xenoblade Chronicles X: Definitive Edition is available for pre-order now. Nintendo Switch Online members can also save on this game and other select titles through Nintendo Switch Game Vouchers.
NIS America, Inc. is thrilled to share that the Phantom Brave: The Lost Hero demo is available now, ahead of its launch on Nintendo Switch,PlayStation 4, and PlayStation 5 on January 30. Developed by Nippon Ichi Software, Phantom Brave: The Lost Hero takes players on an adventure across a world filled with Phantoms, pirates, and spectral foes, all wrapped up in an engaging new story.
Set in a world where humans, beast-people, and magical beings coexist amidst vast seas and scattered islands, the game introduces Marona, a girl with the rare ability to communicate with Phantoms—spirits of the dead. Marona, along with her loyal Phantom partner Ash, works as a Chroma, solving problems and taking on contracts across various islands. However, their peaceful journey is interrupted when they are attacked by the Shipwreck Fleet—a group of ghost ships. In a desperate bid to save Marona, Ash jumps into the fray, leading to their separation.
Marona washes up on a remote island, where she meets Apricot, a Phantom girl searching for her lost father, the legendary captain of the Argento Pirate Crew. The crew once defeated the Shipwreck Fleet, but now the crew is disbanded after the captain’s mysterious disappearance. Together, Marona and Apricot set out to revive the Argento Pirate Crew and embark on a journey to reunite with their lost loved ones, all while navigating pirate territories and the perilous seas filled with ghosts and danger.
Meet the Characters
Marona: A kind-hearted girl who can speak with the dead. Despite being feared for her powers in the past, she has become a hero after saving the world from Sulphur, the Lord of Terror. Now, she journeys to help those in need.
Ash: Marona’s loyal Phantom partner, who has been by her side since the loss of her parents. He is determined to protect her, even from beyond the grave.
Apricot: A timid but skilled swordfighter who longs to reunite with her pirate father. She joins forces with Marona to restore her father’s crew and continue his legacy.
Rounen: A beastman who was the first mate of the Argento Pirate Crew and the right-hand wolfman of the leader of the fleet, Apricot’s father. While he always acts listless and nihilistic, he is actually kind. He shows an almost overprotective parent sentiment towards Apricot, who he calls “Princess,” while still managing to get some digs in all the while taking care of her. Five years prior to the events of the game, he tried to protect Apricot and the others when they encountered the Shipwreck Fleet, but failed. As a result, they lost their lives.
Henna: The Phantom of a former Queen of the Hasara Kingdom, an island containing 70% sand. From times of old, it has been custom in Hasara for a woman to lead the country. However, when she was young and inexperienced, she made bad political decisions and lost her life in a coup d’etat. Afterwards, she appeared as a Phantom in the Hasara Kingdom, where she controls others with a bewitching power that turns them into her servants. She opposes the current queen, who is her biological younger sister.
Urumi: A phantom boy who lives on Snowfall Island, an extremely cold, frozen place that is covered in snow all year round. Since he passed away as a young boy many years ago, he has gained the ability to manifest himself as well as control the climate around him. In spite of his young appearance, he is extremely powerful, and has caused many of the island’s inhabitants to perish by making the climate worse. Accordingly, he is called a “devil” by the islanders who fear him.
Mayfair: The big sister-like leader of a certain pirate group. She appears during Marona’s adventure when Marona and her companions visit Versailles, an island abundant with nature that is closed off to outsiders. There, she protects the island from poachers. Once she gets her mind set on something, she charges ahead at full speed, and she values the swashbuckler’s spirit and her family over all else. She calls her crew family, and is at times a tough trainer, while at others a gentle protector.
In Phantom Brave: The Lost Hero, players engage in battles with a unique blend of strategy and creativity. The game features free movement on a gridless map, where players summon Phantom squad members by Binding their souls into objects scattered across the battlefield. Phantoms can also fuse with special Gadget items for devastating attacks, and Marona can Confriend with Phantoms to unleash powerful transformations and special attacks.
Players can create a powerful team from 51 different character types and build the ultimate party through leveling up, item collection, and randomized dungeons, providing endless possibilities for customization and strategic depth.
Release Details
Title: Phantom Brave: The Lost Hero
Release: January 30, 2025 (Nintendo Switch™, PS4®, PS5®), Spring 2025 (Steam®)
Prepare to set sail on a journey across the high seas with Phantom Brave: The Lost Hero, a game where the bonds between Phantoms and their living counterparts will be tested as they fight to reclaim what they’ve lost. Limited Edition and Delux versions of the game are now available for preorder.
Subscribe to our articles, and don’t miss upcoming, exclusive content!
The cozy life sim Hello Kitty Island Adventure, developed by Sunblink in collaboration with Sanrio, is expanding its reach to Nintendo Switch and PC via Steam on January 30, 2025. PlayStation 4 and 5 versions will follow later in the year. Pre-orders are now open for both Switch and Steam platforms.
From Mobile Phenomenon to Multi-Platform Adventure
Originally launched exclusively on Apple Arcade, Hello Kitty Island Adventure took the gaming world by storm in 2023. The game earned critical acclaim, winning the Apple Arcade Game of the Year and being nominated for Best Mobile Game at The Game Awards. It also secured a Webby People’s Voice Award, cementing its status as a fan favorite.
Sunblink’s CEO and founder, Julian Farrior, shared his excitement about the expansion:
“When we first debuted Hello Kitty Island Adventure on Apple Arcade, players discovered a world where friendship and kindness open doors and lift us up. Helping bring kindness, inclusion, and good vibes to more people is a tremendous honor, and we can’t wait for Switch and PC players to join the fun.”
– via press release
Craig Takiguchi, COO of Sanrio Inc., echoed these sentiments:
“Hello Kitty continues spreading smiles and her presence in the digital space with the expansion of Hello Kitty Island Adventure. For 50 years, Hello Kitty has connected generations through friendship, positivity, and kindness. Bringing the game to more platforms allows even more fans to immerse themselves in Sanrio’s world and create lasting memories with Hello Kitty, Cinnamoroll, and other fan-favorite characters.”
– via press release
Welcome to Big Adventures Park
Players will join Hello Kitty and friends on a tropical island getaway teeming with secrets and surprises. At Big Adventures Park, players will help restore the once-thriving theme park while forging meaningful friendships with beloved Sanrio characters.
Key features include:
Explore a Massive World
Traverse diverse biomes, from Kuromi’s haunted mansion to Rainbow Reef’s underwater treasures. With over 100 hours of gameplay, uncover touching stories and exciting challenges.
Create Your Sanrio Avatar
Customize your character with dozens of features and collect hundreds of clothing items. Change your look anytime to match your vibe.
Craft, Collect, and Customize
Bake with Hello Kitty, fish with Badtz-Maru, solve puzzles, and decorate your dream island space.
Team Up in Multiplayer
Bring friends along to complete challenges, solve puzzles, and create beautiful vacation homes together.
No Microtransactions
Unlock everything through gameplay—no premium currency or hidden costs.
Coming Soon to More Platforms
Mark your calendars for January 30, 2025, when Hello Kitty Island Adventure lands on Nintendo Switch and PC. PlayStation versions will arrive later in 2025.
For more updates, join the official website, Discord, and follow Hello Kitty and Friends on X, TikTok, Instagram, and more.
Subscribe to our articles, and don’t miss upcoming, exclusive content!
Get ready for the next evolution in gaming! Nintendo has officially announced that the highly anticipated Nintendo Switch 2 will be released in 2025. The successor to the beloved Nintendo Switch, the new console promises to bring even more innovative gaming experiences to players around the world.
Today, Nintendo dropped the first-look trailer for Nintendo Switch 2, showcasing the next-gen hardware and giving fans a glimpse of what to expect. The Nintendo Switch 2 will be compatible with exclusive games designed specifically for the system, as well as a wide range of Nintendo Switch games—both physical and digital. However, some titles may not be fully compatible or supported on the new hardware, with further details to be shared at a later date on Nintendo’s website.
“Nintendo Direct” Event Scheduled for April 2025
Nintendo will host a special Nintendo Directevent on Wednesday, April 2, 2025. This broadcast will showcase in-depth information about the new console and reveal more details about its features and capabilities. Make sure to tune in for all the latest updates!
Nintendo Switch 2 Experience Events: Hands-On Across the Globe
Nintendo is also offering fans the chance to experience Nintendo Switch 2 firsthand with exclusive Nintendo Switch 2 Experience events in major cities worldwide. These events will allow attendees to go hands-on with the new system and try out the latest games and features before the official launch.
Here’s a look at the Nintendo Switch 2 Experience event schedule:
North America:
New York: April 4-6, 2025
Los Angeles: April 11-13, 2025
Dallas: April 25-27, 2025
Toronto: April 25-27, 2025
Europe:
Paris: April 4-6, 2025
London: April 11-13, 2025
Milan: April 25-27, 2025
Berlin: April 25-27, 2025
Madrid: May 9-11, 2025
Amsterdam: May 9-11, 2025
Oceania:
Melbourne: May 10-11, 2025
Asia:
Tokyo (Makuhari): April 26-27, 2025
Seoul: May 31-June 1, 2025
Hong Kong: Date TBD
Taipei: Date TBD
To attend a Nintendo Switch 2 Experience event, a Nintendo Account is required. Registration for tickets will open soon. For more information and to sign up for updates, visit Nintendo Switch 2 Experience.
Sentenced to Be a Hero -The Prison Records of Penal Hero Unit 9004- is officially set to air in 2025, bringing an action-packed, dark fantasy story to the screen. Based on the award-winning light novel series by Rocket Shokai, this highly anticipated anime promises intense battles, unique characters, and a deep dive into a world where criminals are forced into heroic service.
The second teaser visual for Sentenced to Be a Hero has just been released, showcasing the protagonist, Xylo Forbartz, preparing to face a formidable adversary. Fans also got a special treat with the announcement of the cast for the lead roles—Yohei Azakami and Mayu Iizuka will voice Xylo and Teoritta, respectively.
CAST COMMENTS
Xylo Forbartz, once the leader of the Holy Knights, is now a “Punishment Hero” after committing the grave crime of killing a Goddess. With exceptional combat skills and leadership abilities, Xylo is tasked with leading a penal unit of prisoners sentenced to fight for the greater good in an ongoing war against the Demon Lords. His voice will be brought to life by the talented Yohei Azakami, known for his roles in Re:Zero and Tokyo Revengers.
“First, please watch the teaser PV. Honestly, this one sentence sums it all up. Although it was released before the recording session, I was immediately drawn into the world of the work by its beautiful animation and dynamic soundtrack. The joy and pressure of playing Xylo. Amidst the chaotic emotions and the flow of blood coursing through my body, I am preparing for battle. To the fans of the work and those who will become fans in the future, I sincerely hope you will fully enjoy the world of the Punishment Heroes, starting with this “despair.” Thank you very much.
Teoritta is the “Goddess” of swords who has formed a contract with Xylo. She can summon a wide range of swords, including Holy Swords and demonic swords. While she has a high sense of pride and loves being praised, she also shows self-sacrificing behavior, epitomizing the classic traits of a “Goddess”. She enjoys having her head patted.
The battles of the unique and diverse prisoners sentenced as Punishment Heroes! As I read the original work, I was completely drawn into its world. I’m so happy to be a part of such a project. Have you all seen the teaser PV!? As the “Goddess”, I’m really looking forward to seeing Teoritta’s dignified battle scenes and her cute, innocent moments in daily life. I’m excited for everyone to see all sides of her in the animation!
Behind-the-Scenes Project and Character Insights!
To celebrate the upcoming anime release, beginning today a new behind-the-scenes production project titled Sentenced to Be a Hero Animation Production Chronicles offers fans exclusive insights into the creative process. This project will include concept designs, illustrations, and interviews with the production staff, all leading up to the anime’s broadcast.
Additionally, Explanation Chronicles will delve deeper into the unique terms and lore of the series, giving fans an enhanced understanding of the story’s rich world-building. Both projects will gradually release content—be sure to stay tuned for updates!
About Sentenced to Be a Hero
Originally a self-published light novel series that debuted in 2020, Sentenced to Be a Hero quickly gained popularity and recognition, winning several prestigious awards, including the Kakuyomu Award 2020 and This Light Novel is Amazing! 2023. Set in a dark fantasy world, the series follows Xylo Forbartz, a convicted criminal forced to serve as a “Hero” in a penal military unit. The convict heroes fight to defend humanity against the Demon Lords—resurrecting upon death to battle again if necessary.
The anime adaptation is produced by Studio KAI, renowned for its vibrant animation and gripping storytelling. Fans can also look forward to the upcoming release of Volume 4 of the light novel in May 2025.
Synopsis
In a world where criminals are sentenced to serve as “Heroes,” Xylo Forbartz, a former leader of the Holy Knights, is forced into military service as part of a penal unit. Together with Teoritta, a Goddess of swords, Xylo leads a group of criminals in a war against the Demon Lords. The unit must fight through despair, struggling with both their pasts and their fate. Their survival hinges on their ability to fight—resurrected again and again in an endless cycle.
Staff Original Work: Rocket Shokai (Kadokawa Dengeki no Shinbungei) Original Illustration: MEPHISTO Animation Studio: Studio KAI
Main Cast Xylo Forbartz: Yohei Azakami Teoritta: Mayu Iizuka
