COVER Corporation Announces Special hololive English Pop-Up Store in Los Angeles Ahead of Mori Calliope’s “Grimoire” Concert

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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,

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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 Calliope merchandise

  • “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,

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Interview With Shinichirō Watanabe | Anime Los Angeles 2025

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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.

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McDonald’s x Pokémon 2025 Happy Meals Collaboration

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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!

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New Xenoblade Chronicles X: Definitive Edition Trailer Lands With More Details

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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 on March 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.

© Nintendo / MONOLITHSOFT

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.

© Nintendo / MONOLITHSOFT. Xenoblade Chronicles and Nintendo Switch are trademarks of Nintendo.

Important Details for Pre-order and Bonuses:

  • Digital versions must be purchased by April 6, 2025, to receive the bonus items.
  • GameStop pre-orders will receive bonus codes upon launch.
  • Nintendo Switch Online members can use game vouchers for additional savings.
© Nintendo / MONOLITHSOFT

Get ready to explore the depths of Mira, battle fierce enemies, and rebuild humanity in Xenoblade Chronicles X: Definitive Edition on Nintendo Switch!

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Phantom Brave: The Lost Hero Set to Launch THIS MONTH – A New Strategy RPG Adventure

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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.

©2025 Nippon Ichi Software, Inc. ©2025 NIS America, Inc. All rights reserved.

The 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.

©2025 Nippon Ichi Software, Inc. ©2025 NIS America, Inc. All rights reserved.

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.

Other characters include,

  • 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.

Unique Gameplay Features

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®)
  • Platforms: Nintendo Switch, PS4, PS5, and Steam
  • Genre: Strategy RPG
  • Players: 1
  • Text Languages: English, French
  • Audio Languages: English, Japanese
  • Rating: ESRB: Teen

For more information, visit the official Phantom Brave: The Lost Hero website at https://nisamerica.com/phantombrave-the-lost-hero/ or follow NIS America on social media.

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.

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Hello Kitty Island Adventure Sets Sail for Nintendo Switch and PC on January 30, 2025

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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.

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Nintendo Switch 2 Set to Release in 2025, First-Look Trailer Unveiled

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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.

© Nintendo

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 Direct event 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.

© Nintendo

Mark your calendars and get ready for the next generation of gaming with Nintendo Switch 2, coming in 2025!

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TV Anime “Sentenced to Be a Hero” Confirms 2025 Release Date & New Cast Additions!

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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.

New Teaser Visual and Cast Revealed!

©2024 ロケット商会/KADOKAWA/勇者刑に処す製作委員会

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.

<Yohei Azakami as Xylo Forbartz>

“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.

<Mayu Iizuka as Teoritta >

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

Light Novel Volumes
Volume 1-3 available from Yen Press
Volume 4 coming May 2025: More info here

Get ready for an intense, action-packed journey when Sentenced to Be a Hero airs in 2025!

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GKIDS Acquires Rights for the highly anticipated Mobile Suit Gundam GQuuuuuuX -Beginning- film

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GKIDS, the Academy Award®-winning distributor renowned for its dedication to high-quality, artist-driven animation, has announced its acquisition of the theatrical distribution rights for the highly anticipated Mobile Suit Gundam GQuuuuuuX -Beginning-. The film is set to hit North American theaters on February 28, 2025, marking an exciting new chapter in the Gundam franchise.

This project represents the first major collaboration between EVANGELION creator Hideaki Anno’s studio khara and Sunrise, the legendary studio behind the Mobile Suit Gundam series. With an all-star lineup of creators from some of the most iconic anime productions of the last three decades, Mobile Suit Gundam GQuuuuuuX -Beginning- is poised to be a must-see cinematic experience.

© SOTUS | SUNRISE. All Rights Reserved

Directed by Kazuya Tsurumaki, known for his work on EVANGELION and FLCL, the film brings together renowned screenwriter Yoji Enokido (who worked on Revolutionary Girl Utena, Bungo Stray Dogs, and FLCL) as Series Supervisor and Screenwriter. The acclaimed Hideaki Anno also joins the project as a screenwriter, bringing his distinctive vision to the Gundam universe.

© SOTUS | SUNRISE. All Rights Reserved

Character designs are handled by illustrator Take (known for Katanagatari, Zaregoto, and the Pokémon series), while the mechanical designs are being crafted by Ikuto Yamashita, a veteran of the EVANGELION series and Shin Kamen Rider.

The Gundam GQuuuuuuX film is a re-edited version of episodes from the upcoming TV series Mobile Suit Gundam GQuuuuuuX, which was first announced in Japan on December 4th, 2024, along with character and mechanical designs, and a theatrical teaser. The film will debut in Japan on January 17, 2025, with the TV series’ release information still to be announced.

David Jesteadt, President of GKIDS, shared his excitement about the project, saying,

“The incredible talent involved in this collaboration on such an iconic series makes Mobile Suit Gundam GQuuuuuuX an unmissable event for anime fans. We are thrilled to bring this exciting new project to North American audiences in a way that does justice to the cinematic experience it deserves.”

– via press release

Film Synopsis

Set in the vastness of space, Mobile Suit Gundam GQuuuuuuX -Beginning- follows Amate Yuzuriha, a high school student living in a peaceful space colony. Her life changes when she meets Nyaan, a war refugee who introduces her to Clan Battle, an illegal mobile suit dueling sport. As Amate enters the battle arena under the name “Machu,” she pilots the powerful GQuuuuuuX mobile suit. But her world is further shaken when an unidentified Gundam mobile suit appears, pursued by both the space force and police. Its pilot, a boy named Shuji, may hold the key to changing the course of their world forever.

© SOTUS | SUNRISE. All Rights Reserved

Only in Theatres, February 28, 2025

For ticket and show time information visit GKids.com.

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TOKYOPOP Supports SoCal Wildfire Relief Efforts with $10,000 Donation

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In a heartfelt move, Los Angeles-based publisher and manga powerhouse, TOKYOPOP, has donated $10,000 to the Book Industry Charitable Foundation (Binc) to support those affected by the devastating wildfires currently ravaging Southern California. This donation will be part of a matching gift initiative by Binc, effectively doubling the impact of each contribution to aid booksellers, retailers, and employees in the book and comics industries whose lives have been upended by the ongoing disaster.

Binc, a nonprofit that has long supported the bookselling community, has raised over $55,000 so far through donations, with funds dedicated to those struggling to recover from the wildfires. The organization is also offering mental health support, including access to licensed therapists for eligible booksellers and comic shop owners. More information is available at: https://bincfoundation.org/apply/mental-health-program

The Book Industry Charitable Foundation (Binc) is a nonprofit organization that assists booksellers and comic retailers in times of crisis, providing financial support and resources. Since its founding, Binc has distributed over $11 million in financial aid to more than 10,000 families in need. More information can be found on their website here.

Stu Levy, TOKYOPOP’s founder, shared his deep connection to the region, saying, “As an Angeleno, this tragedy has affected me personally. TOKYOPOP is deeply embedded in this community, and we trust Binc to direct our support where it’s needed most.” He went on to express his gratitude to everyone who has contributed to the cause.

The fires have caused significant devastation across Los Angeles, with over 62 square miles burned and the death toll expected to rise. Thousands of homes have been destroyed, and many more are still under threat. As of January 17, 2025, the Palisades Fire, one of the most destructive, has scorched over 23,700 acres, with just 22% containment, while the Eaton Fire near Pasadena is 55% contained.

Pam French, Executive Director of Binc, emphasized the ongoing need for support, stating, “The challenges are far from over, and we are incredibly grateful for the generosity of partners like TOKYOPOP, whose support ensures that those impacted will have resources and assistance available.” Binc has posted a form on its website for contributors who wish to use the matching pool to double their donations.

TOKYOPOP’s donation exemplifies the company’s ongoing commitment to the community it has been part of for decades, helping to ensure that those in the book and comics industries have access to the support they need during this difficult time. Binc has posted a form on its website for contributors who wish to use the matching pool to double their donations. To-date, more than $55,000 has been raised.

https://tokyopop.com/For more information about TOKYOPOP, visit their official website here.

______________

Please note, The Kitsune Network (TKN) is not affiliated with Tokyopop or Binc.

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