What You Need to Know:
- The TV anime adaptation of “Tougen Anki: Legend of the Cursed Blood” (written by Yura Urushibara), currently a popular series in AKITASHOTEN’s Weekly Shōnen Champion, has been confirmed. Drawing from the beloved Japanese folktale “Momotaro,” the series depicts the conflict between descendants of Oni (demons) and Momotaro. Since its debut in 2020, the manga has had over 3 million units printed, with its milestone 20th volume set to release on May 8th. The “Tougen Anki Project” launched in June 2023 with its first installment, a stage play starring Alan Abe and other prominent actors, which was well-received and has already confirmed a sequel set for January 2025. As the project’s second installment, the anime’s teaser trailer premiered on the official YouTube channel, announcing the TV series set for 2025. Concurrently, the official anime website and X account has launched, releasing teaser visuals and the character visuals and cast for the central characters: Shiki Ichinose, Naito Mudano, and Jin Kougasaki.
- The teaser visual features the protagonist Shiki Ichinose standing before a crumbling building, his demon blood overtaking his rationality and driving him into a frenzied state, all while sporting a sinister grin. This image sets the stage for a new era of dark hero tales.
The teaser trailer showcases pivotal lines from the original manga and illustrates Shiki’s turmoil upon discovering his demonic heritage, effectively setting the stage for the story’s commencement. - The casting has also been revealed. Kazuki Ura, active from the project’s onset and recently awarded Best Lead Actor at the 18th Annual Seiyuu Awards in March, will voice Shiki Ichinose. Hiroshi Kamiya will portray Naito Mudano, a teacher at Rasetsu Academy where Shiki is enrolled, and Koutaro Nishiyama will voice Shiki’s classmate Jin Kougasaki.
- Approximately a year since the project’s inception, “Tougen Anki” is now gearing up for its broadcast. Stay tuned for more updates on this exciting series!
Summary
TOUGEN ANKI
Original Author: Yura Urushibara
Serialization: Weekly Shōnen Champion (AKITASHOTEN)
Volumes 1-19 now available! Volume 20 releases on May 8th!
*Currently published in seven countries across Europe and Asia. The English version is scheduled for release later this year on September 17th by Yen Press.
Synopsis
“You inherit the blood of an Oni (demon)…”
The bloodlines of “Oni” and “Momotaro” have been passed down among certain humans for generations. Long ago, the Oni, aware of their own ferocity, lived in seclusion. However, their peace was shattered by an invasion led by Momotaro. Over thousands of years, these two factions formed the “Momotaro Agency” and the “Oni Agency,” respectively, and have been locked in conflict ever since.
The protagonist, Shiki Ichinose, suddenly learns of his Oni lineage following an unexpected attack by Momotaro. This revelation sets Shiki on a path to discover the destiny that lies within his blood — a meeting with the Oni dwelling within him.
— A new generation of dark heroics begins here in this tale of demons!
Characters
SHIKI ICHINOSE (VA: KAZUKI URA)
The protagonist who inherits the blood of an Oni. Shiki’s life is turned upside down when he is suddenly attacked by a “Momotaro,” leading him to discover his true Oni heritage. Following this revelation, he enrolls in Rasetsu Academy, a training school for Oni.
NAITO MUDANO (VA: HIROSHI KAMIYA)
An instructor at Rasetsu Academy. Naito is a rationalist who despises inefficiency and wastefulness.
JIN KOUGASAKI (VA: KOUTARO NISHIYAMA)
A classmate of Shiki at Rasetsu Academy who is always seen wearing a black mask. Jin has a contentious relationship with Shiki, marked by frequent clashes and disagreements.
Official Links
Website: tougenanki-anime-global.com
YouTube: youtube.com/@ItsAnimeJP
TikTok: tiktok.com/@itsanimeenglish
Source: Official Press Release