The year 2025 was big for animation fans, in part thanks to major anime films like Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle. The first of a three-part ender to the popular shonen anime broke records and dazzled fans when it came out, and now Sony’s looking to capitalize on that success by reigniting its theatrical run.
Beginning February 20, select theaters in Japan will play Infinity in Ultra 4DX and the three-screen ScreenX formats. The latter has been used for the likes of Mission: Impossible and Wicked: For Good, and its inclusion here for Demon Slayer is a big one. Not only is Infinity the first of that franchise’s movies to get the ScreenX treatment, but it’s also the first anime period to get this type of conversion.
At the time of writing, this is only available in Japan and the Philippines, with online chatter suggesting that other territories may eventually follow suit at a later date. According to Polygon, there are also rumors of Infinity returning to IMAX for theaters that can’t provide 4DX or ScreenX screenings. If so, that’d also make this the first Demon Slayer movie to get a re-release: the popular Mugen Train film and compilation movies for the “Swordsmith” and Hashira Training” arcs each only hit theaters the one time.
For those holding out for Demon Slayer:Infinity Castle to hit streaming, you’re going to be waiting awhile. But hopefully you’ll get a chance to watch it on the big screen beforehand.
As is tradition, Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle, the first in a trilogy of anime films marking the conclusion of the megapopular anime, is in theaters and performing well at the box office. However, the question on every anime fan’s lips is when they should expect to see the film pop up on streaming platforms. A Crunchyroll executive’s sentiment on the matter should encourage fans to get their fix in theaters, as it won’t be coming to the orange streamer anytime soon.
Speaking with Popverse, Mitchel Berger, Crunchyroll’s executive vice president of global commerce, lauded the film for its historic box office numbers while encouraging fans to move the needle a little more to get its numbers up. Of course, laden in that message was the ire of every person googling “Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle streaming?” with Berger closing out his remarks by confirming the film won’t make its way to Crunchyroll this year.
“Go see [Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle] in theaters because the theater is the only place you’re going to be able to see this film in 2025,” Berger told Popverse. “If you want to go see it, go see it in the theater because that’s the only place it’s going to be available.”
Reading between the lines, fans will likely have to sit on their hands for Infinity Castle to hit streaming sometime in 2026. Time will tell whether it’ll be the film as is or the film coupled with episodic chunks of the movie, like what Aniplex did with the last Demon Slayer film, Mugen Train. Pessimism over the successful anime series getting milked for all they’re worth aside, Infinity Castle‘s cultural precedence shouldn’t be understated.
The film, which premiered in theaters last week, is already poised to become the highest-grossing anime movie of all time, bringing home an estimated $468 million worldwide on its opening weekend, according to the Hollywood Reporter. This milestone comes with huge bragging rights, considering Mugen Train had the most successful opening for a foreign film at the time, as well as being 2020’s highest-grossing film. And that was all achieved alongside the pandemic.
In io9’s review for Infinity Castle, we said the film was killer with some filler and a whole lot of flashy anime action, writing, “As far as first acts go, Infinity Castle breaks out of the gate full steam ahead. It’s not the most narratively trailblazing entry in the franchise, but it sets the stage for a finale that could be truly unforgettable. Any fan would be lucky to bear witness to it on the biggest screen possible.”
Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle is playing in theaters and IMAX.
Channing Tatum‘s role in the record-breaking Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba The Movie — Infinity Castle, released in North American theaters this weekend, was a small but significant one.
For Demon Slayer fans who haven’t read the manga, their introduction to his character was likely in the feature-length film that became top opening ever for an anime title at the North American box office. [Warning: Spoilers ahead if you haven’t seen the movie or read the manga.]
Tatum voices Keizo in the English dub version of the movie. Here’s the backstory on that character: Keizo is a kind widower whose wife took her own life shortly after their daughter, Koyuki, was born. He owns a dojo where he takes care of his sick daughter and teaches students in the ways of the bare-fisted Soryu fighting style.
At the same time, a boy named Hakuji (voiced by Lucien Dodge) is taking care of his sick dad, resorting to thievery so that he can afford to buy his medicine. But after seeing his son get punished for his crimes time and time again, Akaza’s dad hangs himself.
This is where Keizo enters the story. The dojo master finds Hakuji and takes him in, teaching him to fight, while Hakuji also takes care of Koyuki (voiced by Rebecca Wang). He falls in love with the latter, and they are set to marry.
One day, Hakuji leaves to visit his dad’s grave. When he returns, he learns that a rival dojo has poisoned and killed Keizo and Koyuki. He takes revenge and kills 67 members of that dojo.
This draws the attention of Muzan Kibutsuji, head of all demons, who turns Hakuji into a demon himself, who becomes known as an Upper Rank demon named Akaza. Because of his (forgotten but still buried in his subconcious) love for Keizo’s daughter, Akaza refuses to eat women.
Akaza is crucial to the overall Demon Slayer story, as he kills a high-ranking demon slayer named Kyojuro Rengoku, who had become a mentor and inspiration to the the central protagonist, Tanjiro Kamado. Rengoku’s death fuels Tanjiro’s resolve to become stronger so that he can take down Akaza and ultimately Muzan.
As for why Tatum signed on to the movie, he recently toldEntertainment Tonight that he and his 12-year-old daughter, Everly, are fans of the anime. The duo attended the film’s premiere together.
“We’ve been watching this for so long,” he told ET on the red carpet, as his daughter added: “It’s beautifully made and has an incredible storyline, and I love anime in general. It’s beautifully animated.”
Tatum also posted on X: “Walking the #DemonSlayer: Kimetsu No Yaiba Infinity Castle carpet with Evie by my side was honestly a dream come true. She’s been my anime inspiration from the start, and sharing this moment with her made my first time voicing Keizo extra special. Having a project we both love in theaters now just feels unreal-heart is full and fanboy levels are off the charts!”
Walking the #DemonSlayer: Kimetsu No Yaiba Infinity Castle carpet with Evie by my side was honestly a dream come true. She’s been my anime inspiration from the start, and sharing this moment with her made my first time voicing Keizo extra special. Having a project we both love in… pic.twitter.com/fmMcAd4Z6K
The film opened well ahead of expectations over the weekend, bringing in an estimated $70 million from 3,315 theaters. The movie, which was released in Japan in July before heading Stateside., is the first of a trilogy based on the Infinity Castle arc of the manga.
Sony-owned Crunchyroll is handling the movie in North America and a raft of foreign territories, excluding Japan and other select Asian markets. The show is available for streaming on Crunchyroll’s website along with Netflix.
The English dub cast also includes Zach Aguilar, Abby Trott, Aleks Le, Bryce Papenbrook, Johnny Yong Bosch, Kira Buckland, Erika Harlacher, Brianna Knickerbocker, Zeno Robinson, Ray Chase, Griffin Burns, Erik Scott Kimerer, Kaiji Tang and Crispin Freeman.
Demon Slayer: Infinity Castlecame to the United States this weekend, and it’s doing numbers well ahead of projections.
Per the Hollywood Reporter, the film—the first of a trilogy meant to bring the shonen fantasy series to a close—made an estimated $70 million domestic, double the $35-40 million predicted by analysts. But Sony’s been aggressive with marketing it, not to mention the anime itself is pretty popular on its own. It’s the biggest opening ever for an anime film in North America, the biggest-ever animated debut for a September film, and with an additional $30 million from international audiences, brings Infinity’s box office to an estimated $468 million worldwide.
Being a money maker isn’t new for Demon Slayer: in 2022, Sony released the film adaptation of the Mugen Train arc, which was the most succssful opening for a foreign film at the time. While it wasn’t the top movie that weekend, it helped reinvigorate U.S. theaters in the aftermath of the early COVID-19 pandemic and was 2020’s highest-grossing film.
Meanwhile, The Conjuring: Last Ritesfrom September 5 fell by 69% domestically and came in behind Infinity Castle. With a new domestic total of $131.1 million and an extra $60.5 million overseas, its latest total is $332.9 million. It’s now the second highes-grossing movie in the franchise behind the first Nun movie ($366 million) and ahead of The Conjuring 2 ($322.8 million).
As for The Long Walk, the weekend’s other big genre release, it made an estimated $11.5 million domestic. Based on Stephen King’s 1979 novel, the Francis Lawrence-directed film stars Cooper Hoffman, David Jonsson, and Mark Hamill, and has had eavy marketing in recent weeks. Compared to other adaptations of King’s work, that domestic open is below The Monkey and Doctor Sleep, according to Deadline. But at time of writing, its international numbers aren’t out, and we’ll update when they’re disclosed.
Update (9/13/2025 @ 4:23 PM ET): This story has been updated with more recent numbers for Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle.
The beginning of the end has arrived. Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle, the first installment in a climactic film trilogy of one of anime’s most popular series, is finally storming into theaters, bringing with it tons of high-stakes spectacle fans have been salivating over. Infinity Castle may wobble in matching the emotional depth and narrative finesse that Demon Slayer fans have come to expect. Still, it more than earns its place on the big screen, with studio Ufotable delivering gorgeous animation and blisteringly fast action choreography so explosive it outpaces the franchise’s own high-water marks.
Picking up where season four left off, the movie wastes no time plunging Tanjiro Kamado (Zach Aguilar) and his fellow Demon Slayer Corps into the heart of the enemy territory in Muzan Kibutsuji’s (Greg Chun) shifting fortress—a nightmarish, M.C. Escher-style maze that reshapes itself with the velocity of a runaway bullet train. What began as a boy’s desperate quest to save his sister, Nezuko (Abby Trott), from a cursed fate as a demon now barrels toward its final showdown. Allies are scattered. Enemies lurk around every corner. And the castle itself feels like a sentient trap, true to its name, stretching into infinity and collapsing in on itself with every step.
Infinity Castle resembles Game of Death by way of Shonen Jump, with a stacked match card of superpowered samurai battles that feel more like night one of a multi-night professional wrestling pay-per-view than a traditional movie. Bee-style Demon Slayer Corps swordsman Shinobu Kocho (Erika Harlacher) and narcoleptic lightning-style swordsman Zenitsu Agatsuma (Aleks Le) get their spotlight in Infinity Castle‘s undercard bouts against demons Doma (Stephen Fu) and Kaigaku (Alejandro Saab), respectively, but the main event is Tanjiro and Johnny Yong Bosch’s Giyu‘s tag-team clash with Akaza (Lucien Dodge).
To extend the wrestling comparison further, while the heroes bring the emotional weight to their fights, the demons—save for Akaza—feel like they’re sandbagging their battles. Although Infinity Castle is lavishly conceived, its writing for its villains is thinly written. Most of them boil down to “I’m just evil,” which is a letdown, given the series’ history, which has given its villains tragic, textured backstories to match their impeccable designs.
The film’s biggest stumble is its overreliance on anime flashbacks—often inserted mid-battle like a self-congratulatory pat on the back. These moments, already replayed to death in the anime, break the momentum of Infinity Castle‘s action and dilute the emotional catharsis of its battles instead of enriching them. What’s more, even the film’s new flashbacks with its central demons feel like watching the same wrestling spot three times in one night, as they retread the same tragic setup with such frequency. The first time hits, the second time drags, and the third time feels lazy. Had these arcs been spaced out episodically, they might’ve landed with more weight.
Still, Infinity Castle never feels its two-hour and 35-minute runtime. Ufotable’s animation is as dazzling as ever, with slick camera movement that has its characters ping-ponging through 3D CG backgrounds, complemented by compositing finesse that gives the film a cinematic grandeur exceeding that of past films like Mugen Train. Its action choreography is a rollercoaster for the eyes—fluid, explosive, and occasionally slowed down, as if to let sparks fly off katana blades like fireworks behind your eyes. And its final battle kicks things into third gear.
While Tanjiro and Giyu’s fight with Akaza doesn’t quite reach the emotional heights of the demon siblings from season two, it’s the closest thing this gets to the series’ signature harmony between writing and bombastic spectacle. Their ideological and physical clash feels earned, and its chest-pumping choreography perfectly sells every emotional beat. If anything, the film’s structure might’ve benefitted from departing from adapting its source material to a T by reshuffling its fight order. Zenitu’s battle feels more like a cooldown than a ramp-up, making the pacing wobble before the final clash. But the climax is a home run worthy of being hung in the rafters alongside the best shonen anime battles of all time.
As far as first acts go, Infinity Castle breaks out of the gate full steam ahead. It’s not the most narratively trailblazing entry in the franchise, but it sets the stage for a finale that could be truly unforgettable. Any fan would be lucky to bear witness to it on the biggest screen possible.
Let’s be real—sometimes the bad guys just eat. No matter how fast or how crazily the main character “glows up” (we’re looking at you, Naruto), there’s something about a charismatic villain that just steals the spotlight. Whether it’s their backstory, their drip, or the way they absolutely body everyone in sight, certain anime antagonists end up being way more beloved than the actual hero.
And this isn’t just edgy “I like villains because I’m different” energy. We’re talking about villains who consistently dominate fan polls or, even better–completely overtake our TikTok For You Pages with edits to Michael Jackson’s “Billie Jean.” Did we make this list by ranking the best fan-made AMVs? You’ll never know. Here are five anime where the villain lowkey outshone the protagonist. (Warning: spoilers ahead.)
(Pierrot)
Madara Uchiha from Naruto Shippuden
You can be all “well, actually” with this one all you want, but the point remains: Madara Uchiha is theanime villain, not only in Naruto but in all of anime. Yes, he only showed up until Shippuden, but until that moment, everyone was anticipating his arrival. The Fourth Great Ninja War arc is remembered less for Naruto’s inspirational speeches and more for that scene where Madara soloed an entire army. Fans literally clipped it, memed it, and called it “peak fiction.” He is still used as a comparison for all the villains that came after. On MyAnimeList forums and Reddit, many argued Madara should’ve stayed the final villain instead of Kaguya, with threads still saying “Kaguya ruined the ending.” Sorry, Naruto, Madara invented aura farming, so he wins this time!
(Viz Media)
Meruem from Hunter x Hunter
Hunter x Hunter has a lot of great characters, but when Meruem enters the Chimera Ant arc, the entire tone of the anime shifts. What starts as a horrifying monster king story slowly turns into one of the most nuanced villain arcs in anime. Fans didn’t just like Meruem because he was powerful (though, let’s be real, the man was casually dusting Hunters like it was nothing). They loved him because of his relationship with Komugi, a human girl who taught him humility and compassion through a board game. Gon who? The internet still cries about Meruem’s final moments.
Askeladd from Vinland Saga
If you’ve watched Vinland Saga, you know that Askeladd is one of the most complex, morally grey characters in modern anime. While Thorfinn, the protagonist, is angry and driven by revenge, Askeladd operates on wit, charisma, and a strangely protective streak toward his men. You can’t help but like the moments he’s on screen. Fans love him because he wasn’t a one-note villain. He was manipulative, sure, but also deeply human—torn between his Viking identity and his hidden Welsh heritage. By the time his arc concludes, Askeladd basically steals the entire first season from Thorfinn, leaving fans stunned and even questioning whether he should have been the protagonist.
Mahito from Jujutsu Kaisen
Before we start arguing, yes, we know Mahito is deeply hated. Like, actually loathed. And for good reason! He has killed so many fan favorite characters. But let’s not twist it—he’s also one of the most talked about villains in anime. And in fandom, hype equals popularity, even if it’s negative. While Yuji Itadori is the classic selfless shonen protagonist, Mahito represents pure chaos. He’s sadistic, unhinged, and the kind of villain who gets under your skin because he fights dirty. He makes you feel helpless, filling viewers with dread any time he’s on screen. His ability to twist souls gave us some of the most disturbing (and unforgettable) deaths in Jujutsu Kaisen. However, this doesn’t mean he’s not in every conversation about Jujutsu Kaisen. Fans despise him, but they can’t stop analyzing his scenes.
Muzan Kibutsuji from Demon Slayer
Those fanmade edits we mentioned? The ones with the viral trend of Michael Jackson’s Billie Jean? That trend was made for Muzan. There is no one else who completely embodies the drip the way Muzan does. Hell, he was even memed as Michael Jackson years before the trend ever began. Why, you may ask? Well, Tanjiro is wholesome, but compared to Michael Jackson Demon (aka Muzan), he just doesn’t generate the same meme energy. From the moment Muzan appeared in his flashy hat and suit, fans were instantly obsessed with his look. He became an internet icon before we even knew much about his powers. What a diva.
Heroes may be the face of the story, but villains are often the ones who keep us watching. From Madara flexing on an entire army to Meruem making us ugly cry, these antagonists prove that sometimes the “bad guy” steals the narrative.
Gisselle Hernandez-Gomez is a contributing reporter to the Mary Sue. Her work has appeared in the Daily Dot, Business Insider, Fodor’s Travel and more. You can follow her on X at @GisselleHern. You can email her at [email protected].
The Demon Slayer Hashiras are all talented. A list ranking their power levels would be like comparing the power levels of apples and oranges, and all other fruits. They all do different things well. So how to rank them? Pure vibes. Some are immaculate, some kinda the worst.
9. The Wind Hashira – Sanemi Shinazugawa
(Ufotable)
I understand the sort of trauma that a tragic backstory can inflict on a man, but Sanemi Shinazugawa needs to chill. His eyes to don’t just say “murder”, the shout it straight from the top floor windows of his soul. Honestly he was pretty out of pocket from the jump, downright hostile to Tanjiro. His bad vibes don’t just extend to strangers, he’s downright hostile to his own brother. Sure, I get that he’s only lashing out against his brother so his bro won’t get close and be exposed to danger from demons. But couldn’t he be a little bit nicer about it?
8. The Snake Hashira – Obanai Iguro
(Ufotable)
Obanai Iguro also gives murder vibes. Listen, I have nothing against snakes. They’re adorable. But being cold blooded little killers is in their nature. Human beings have the ability to choose their natures. He doesn’t HAVE to be a venomous little jerk, but he CHOOSES to be. Terrible vibe. You can always tell the quality of a person by how they treat their subordinates, and Obanai is ruthless, inconsiderate, and petty to those under him. He needs to stop pointing fingers at others and do a little self examination. Besides, snakes don’t have fingers. Get with the program Obanai.
7. The Mist Hashira – Muichiro Tokito
(Ufotable)
Like the mist for which he is named, Muichiro Tokito is mysterious, cold, and kind of unsettling. He’s logical to a fault, and doesn’t let his emotions guide him in his decision making process. That’s good for battle, but terrible when dealing with people. He tends to see people as tools, as evidenced when he told the swordsmiths of Swordsmith Village that their lives were only valuable for the swords they made. Show some appreciation for your co-workers, my guy.
6. The Water Hashira – Giyu Tomioka
(Ufotable)
Like the Mist Hashira, Muichiro Tokito has a cold and aloof demeanor. The man is definitely not the sort of person you want to get stuck talking to at a party. Luckily, you never will, because Giyu spends almost all of his time alone. There’s nothing wrong with being a loner, but sometimes you gotta let people in! Tell a joke! Give a compliment! Literally just say hi to the people who are risking their lives alongside you! I get that it comes from a deep inferiority complex, Giyu. I think you gotta work it out in Slayer therapy.
5. The Sound Hashira – Tengen Uzui
(Ufotable)
Finally, the dawn of positive vibes is breaking in the bad vibe night! Tengen Uzui is an affable dude. Unlike the Hashira before him, he’s generally friendly and willing to take subordinates under his wing. His vibes are a little mixed. He’s got three wives, and he treats them all well. They really seem to like him. But is polygamy necessarily a good vibe? I dunno, jury’s still out. Seems like there’s a difference in power dynamics here, which is not what healthy relationships are based on. Tengen and his wives may have some more relationship work to do.
4. The Insect Hashira – Shinobu Kocho
(Ufotable)
The Insect Hashira Shinobu Kocho look all bright and bubbly on the surface, but it’s not exactly… genuine. The cheerful demeanor is really just a mask that she wears in order to cover up the darker aspects of her personality. Most of her inner life is devoted to the hatred of demons. They did kill her sister, to be fair. She isn’t bad vibes per se, just slightly unsettling vibes. She also has a bit of a sadistic streak, and seems to really enjoy toying with the emotions of demons before killing them. Sure, demons are bad vibes, but meeting bad vibes with bad vibes does not a good vibe make.
3. The Love Hashira – Mitsuri Kanroji
(Ufotable)
Mitsuri Kanroji is all Love. Literally. She’s always got a smile. She’s always showing affection to her comrades. She’s never got a mean thing to say about anyone (except demons, which is understandable), and she’s all about having a good time. Wanna have a chill day at the hot springs? Go to Mitsuri. Got some new hire questions about the Demon Slayer job? Go to Mitsuri. Need to talk out something that’s bothering you? Go to Mitsuri. Unless you’re a demon, then you definitely DON’T want to go to Mitsuri, she will kill you with extreme prejudice.
2. The Stone Hashira – Gyomei Himejima
(Ufotable)
Gnome Himejima’s vibes are immaculate. He’s the epitome of a gentle giant. He’s easily the strongest Hashira in terms of raw power, but does he lord it over his comrades? Absolutely not. Gyomei is the definition of humility. And with the prayer beads that he’s always carrying around, he’s practically a living saint. He puts everyone around him at ease both on and off the battlefield, and even the most cynical and mistrustful Hashira value his opinion and leadership. What’s more? He’s a ride or die. The man is totally unafraid to give his life in service of his friends, the Demon Slayer Corps, and humanity itself. What a stand up guy.
1. The Flame Hashira – Kyojuro Rengoku
(Ufotable)
Kyojuro Rengoku is the PINNACLE of good vibes. Always positive. Always smiling. Always contributing value to any situation. He’s a campfire of a person, you can’t help but feel warm and safe around him. He’s also is just a good time to hang out with. He has a habit of shouting “DELICIOUS!” when eating a good meal, and it’s simply adorable. Above all else, Rengoku believes that it is the duty of the strong to protect the weak, and he bases his entire personality around this central moral tenant. He’s prepared to live by it, and more importantly… die by it. Which is exactly what he did. Rest in peace, Rengoku, you may be gone, but your good vibes are still with us even after death.
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As a child, Enmu had a pretty standard little kid problem. He couldn’t distinguish the real world from the imaginary one. While most little kids grow out of this issue, Enmu could not. As an adult, Enmu pretended to be a doctor. He definitely did not graduate from medical school. Nevertheless, he began “treating” patients with quack methods like hypnosis. He got off on telling patients who didn’t have long to live that they had made a full recovery. At best, it’s a misunderstanding of the placebo effect. At worst, it’s just getting off on the manipulation. Red flags all around.
One night, Muzan broke into the still-human Enmu’s house and started to eat his intestines. Still alive, Enmu began praising Muzan’s … technique? Because Enmu is usually floating around in the la-la land of his mind, he doesn’t experience pain. As a result, he only got warm and fuzzy feelings from staring into the handsome face of the Demon King. After Enmu died, Muzan revived the boy on a whim, turning him into a demon.
Enmu began rising through the ranks of demonkind, until finally reaching the Lower Ranks. After the Lower Ranks demons failed to impress Muzan, he murdered them all save for Enmu. Why? Because while all the other demons attempted to flee or make excuses, Enmu told the Demon King he was thrilled to accept death at his master’s hands. Good call. Muzan rewarded Enmu with more of his blood and sent him off to kill the Hashira.
What are Enmu’s abilities?
Enmu was already formidable as Lower Rank One, even before he was powered up by Muzan’s blood. After his power-up, it’s arguable that he could have become Upper Rank material. Enmu’s speed and reflexes were enhanced enough to easily run rings around Tanjiro, who had mastered Total Concentration Breathing, an advanced breathing technique that powered up his sword strokes.
Like all demons, Enmu can manipulate his flesh at will. He was able to do freaky-deeky standard fare demon moves, like remotely controlling amputated limbs or creating gross tentacles out of his body. His flesh manipulation technique reached its pinnacle when he merged with a full-length train to absorb its 200 passengers into his body. Nasty.
Enmu’s Blood Demon Art allowed him to instantly put his victims to sleep, usually by speaking a phrase that instantly knocked them out. Enmu-induced sleep is much deeper than regular sleep, considering that Nezuko was unable to wake Tanjiro up even with a headbutt to the face.
Enmu compounds his sleep-inducing abilities with the power to manipulate and enter people’s dreams, Freddy Krueger-style. Unlike Freddy, Enmu made his victims have nice dreams. Beautiful dreams. Dreams that they would never want to wake up from. If that wasn’t enough to keep his victims under his control, however, Enmu would turn his victim’s dreams into nightmares. The only way to resist Enmu’s dreamscapes is through sheer power of will. Tanjiro was able to free himself from Enmu’s dream control only by committing suicide over and over and over again. So traumatic.
While Enmu’s dream possession abilities are extremely powerful, they do have some notable drawbacks. When entering the mind of a dreamer, their dreams are made manifest into a physical reality. This mental landscape is known as a dreamer’s “Spiritual Core”. Tanjiro’s Spiritual Core, for instance, appears as an endless blue sky. If the Spiritual Core is destroyed, the dreamer will die. However, the Spiritual Core of a person can be potent enough to influence someone entering a dreamer’s mental landscape. After entering Tanjiro’s mind, one of Enmu’s human agents was changed by Tanjiro’s sense of inner kindness. The guy stopped wanting to be evil and dipped without destroying the Spiritual Core. Kill ’em with kindness, baby. And then with a sword stroke to the neck.
Jack Doyle (they/them) is actually nine choirs of biblically accurate angels in crammed into one pair of $10 overalls. They have been writing articles for nerds on the internet for less than a year now. They really like anime. Like… REALLY like it. Like you know those annoying little kids that will only eat hotdogs and chicken fingers? They’re like that… but with anime. It’s starting to get sad.
Every great anime needs a training arc, and Demon Slayer isn’t an exception to this rule. Although Tanjiro and his friends have been training to get stronger to defeat demons in their path, the Hashira Training Arc won’t just focus on Tanjiro.
The rest of the Demon Slayer Corps and the other Hashira are training themselves under tough conditions in order to awaken their own Demon Slayer Marks. The only way to defeat the Upper Moons of Muzan is to get stronger, but regular training isn’t going to be enough.
Demon Slayer Marks are awakened once Demon Slayers are placed under harsh conditions that break them past their limits. This enhances the current strengths of that demon slayer, but only for a short period of time. Tanjiro and Muichiro both unlocked their marks, which helped them defeat several demons during the Swordsmith Village Arc.
For Muichiro, memories of his brother’s death helped awaken his mark. Prior to this, Tanjiro had already awakened his mark briefly against Gyutaro in an intense battle during the Entertainment District Arc. Both Muichiro and Tanjiro were subjected to immense suffering, but the power boost gave them the ability to kill some powerful demons and save their own lives.
The Hashira Training Arc is aimed at getting everybody in the Demon Slayer Corps stronger. Even retired Demon Slayers like Tengen are coming back just to help out with training. The attack on the Swordsmith Village by several high-profile demons resulted in a lot of swordsmith deaths. Nezuko’s immunity from the Sun is both a gift and a risk. Her newly awakened ability might present a cure for demons, but it also comes at the cost of being hunted down by Muzan himself.
The Hashira will be pushing everybody past their limits, including former Sound Hashira Uzui Tengen. Although there’s a lot of action to be had, fans will get to know more about Giyuu Tomioka’s rise to become the Water Hashira. This arc will also feature an unexpected team-up with Shinobu and another unlikely character to create a potent drug against Muzan Kibutsuji.
Vanessa Esguerra (She/They) is a Contributing Writer for The Mary Sue. She graduated with a degree in Bachelor of Arts in Political Economy and is currently pursuing her Master’s Degree in Japanese Studies. She speaks three languages, but still manages to get lost in the subways of Tokyo with her clunky Japanese. As a mixed race bisexual woman, she frequently writes about race, gender and sexuality both academically and professionally. Fueled by iced coffee brewed from local cafés in Metro Manila, she also regularly covers anime and video games while queuing for her next match in League of Legends.
The past year has been good for many anime fans, with hits like Jujutsu Kaisen Season 2 and the Attack on Titan series finale. Fortunately, Otakus can anticipate even more content the following year, continuing on classic storylines and paving the way for brand-new adventures. So, to get you pumped up for the next phase, here’s our list of anime you can look forward to in 2024.
Blue Exorcist: Shimane Illuminati Saga – January 6
Image Source: A-1 Pictures
Although the animated version of Blue Exorcist was initially released back in 2011, the show is still alive and well thanks to the upcoming Shimane Illuminati Saga. The latest storyline will continue off after the Kyoto Saga, centering around a mysterious group known as the “Illuminati.”
If you’re a fan of the Nine-Tailed Fox Spirit wielder, Izumo Kamiki, then you’ll be happy to hear about her significance to the arc, honing in on her origin story. But, of course, the other beloved Exwires members will join alongside her, including Ryuji Suguro, Shura Kirigakure, and the series’ main protagonist, Rin Okamura.
Mashle: Magic and Muscles Season 2 – January 6
Image Source: A-1 Pictures
Everyone’s favorite non-magic fighter, Mashle Burnedead, has returned for another epic season in the Divine Visionary Candidate Exam arc. His robust abilities will be tested as he proves his worth to those who control the magical realm. Unfortunately for him, the Divine Visionaries won’t go easy on him, consisting of elite members such as the Light Cane, the Immortal Cane, and the Dragon Cane.
Will Mashle be able to punch his way through this exam? Only time will tell, but hopefully, it will get him one step closer to achieving his goal of becoming a Divine Visionary — a mission that heavily impacts the fate of his family’s secret.
Solo Leveling – January 6
Image Source: A-1 Pictures
The hit digital comic series Solo Leveling has now made its way over to the anime world, bringing Sung Jinwoo’s compelling journey to life. As a hunter, he isn’t the best in the business, that is, until he gains unprecedented powers from the mystifying System. It’s up to Sung to clear his name as “the Weakest Hunter of All Mankind” in order to save his family and himself from turmoil.
To achieve this feat, Jinwoo must clear out formidable dungeons full of dangerous monsters. However, creatures aren’t his only enemy, as magical humans seek to eliminate him and anyone else who stands in their way.
Haikyuu the Movie: The Battle at the Garbage Dump – February 16
Image Source: Production I.G
It’s been a while since we’ve heard about the crows of Karasuno, and luckily, it won’t be too long until we see them again in their highly-anticipated movie. The volleyball boys have defeated many worthy adversaries, yet none of them come close to their longtime nemesis, Nekoma. The film will immediately take place where we left off in Season 4, starting with the heated battle of the Garbage Dump.
Currently, the Haikyuu movie only has a Japan release date in place, so we’ll have to see if its Western launch will follow suit. The Battle at the Garbage Dump will also act as the series’ Season 5 replacement, given that the finale has now been incorporated into a two-part film.
Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba Hashira Training Arc – April 2024
Image Source: Ufotable
Each Demon Slayer arc has left the fans wanting more, especially with the action-packed conclusion of Swordsmith Village. And now, everything will be taken up a notch as Tanjiro Kamado trains to become a Hashira, a mantle fit for the ultimate demon slayers. Although he’s already been hard at work in the series’ numerous battles, he has much to learn from the gifted ensemble.
The Hashira Training arc will begin with a one-hour special, beginning off with Tanjiro visiting the Stone Hashira. Given that Himejima is presumably known as the strongest of the group, Kamado will undoubtedly have his hands full while he attempts to gain Gyomei’s approval amongst everyone else.
Bartender Glass of God – April 2024
Image Source: Studio Wit
Cocktail connoisseurs can divulge in the art of mixology through the upcoming 2024 anime Bartender Glass of God. You’ll get to explore the wonders of Eden Hall, a bar owned by the talented Ryuu Sasakura, a character who strives to make exquisitely crafted recipes. Not only does Ryuu excel in mixology, but he also has a mission to help customers drink their troubles away.
You may learn a thing or two when Sasakura conjures up his multiple creations, including a recipe for the delicious Gin Fizz. To top it off, the critically acclaimed Japanese liquor company Suntory Holdings Limited will supervise the drink selection to get a more authentic bar experience.
That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime Season 3 – April 2024
Image Source: Eight Bit
Another anime you can look forward to in 2024 is the Season 3 release of the ever-popular That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime. Things are starting to heat up as the main protagonist, Rimuru (Mikami Satoru in the previous life), goes head-to-head with Hinata Sakaguchi. The upcoming season will be broken down into two consecutive cours, taking place sometime in Volume 7 of the manga.
Besides the Season 3 premiere, That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime will be celebrating its 10th anniversary on Jan. 30. The series is expected to host a special program to commemorate the event, so you can anticipate even more content before the following season.
Kaiju No. 8 – April 2024
Image Source: Production I.G
Avid manga readers have undoubtedly heard about Naoya Matsumoto’s Kaiju No. 8. In this world, monsters, also known as “Kaiju,” are the norm, resulting in catastrophes around the city. That’s where the elite Japan Defense Force comes in to put an end to their tyranny, following the adventures of the aspiring fighter Kafka Hibino.
While Hibino initially promised to eradicate these grotesque creatures to his childhood friend Mina Ashiro, he ultimately finds himself in a janitor-like lifestyle at Monster Sweeper, Inc. However, a fire in him eventually reignites when he encounters Reno Ichikawa, setting his sights once again on the Defense Force.
My Hero Academia Season 7 – May 4
Image Source: Bones
My Hero Academia’s Season 6 conclusion left off with yet another cliffhanger, introducing a powerful new character to the series. After the events of the Paranormal Liberation War, our heroes must deal with the threat of Tomura Shigaraki and All For One as the story continues to progress through the Final Act Saga.
Season 7 will also bring in the Star and Stripe and U.A. Traitor arcs, with the possibility of entering the Final War stage. It isn’t entirely clear when the My Hero Academia series will conclude, but it may happen sooner rather than later as the final events approach.
Tower of God Season 2 – July 2024
Image Source: Telecom Animation Film
The famous Webtoon series Tower of God has received a second season due to the overwhelming support of longtime and new fans. Based on the announcement trailer, Season 2 will take part in Return Of The Prince and Workshop Battle arcs, with Baam and Ja Wangnan as the main protagonists.
During the events of the first installment, Baam focused on his mission to help Rachel reach the top of the Tower of God, a feat that can grant you anything you desire. Things have since changed with the upcoming season, where he now has a new goal in mind with the recent changes.
Beastars Final Season – Sometime in 2024
Image Source: Netflix
Netflix’s Beastars will finally come to an end with its last season, concluding the adventures of the beloved animalistic cast. Director Shinichi Matsumi and writer Nanami Higuchi are working on the next step in the series, along with the guidance of the creator, Paru Itagaki. The final season will take on a new anime arc featuring the notable characters Legoshi and Haru.
Since the Beastars manga series has previously ended, its final arc will likely be based on the ending chapters. But if you haven’t caught up with the recent episodes, you can tune in on Netflix to catch up on the latest events. You’ll primarily follow along the journey of the wolf Legoshi, who unexpectedly unleashes his primal urges in a semi-peaceful beast world, all while dealing with a murder at school.
Bleach Thousand-Year Blood War Part 3 – Sometime in 2024
Image Source: Studio Pierrot
The Bleach series has certainly had a long run, considering that its anime first began in 2004. So, now that we have entered modern times, the franchise has shifted over to Bleach: Thousand-Year Blood War, as the third entry, The Conflict, comes in 2024. The Jump Festa trailer gave us an insight into the fate of Ichigo Kurosaki and the rest of the group while they take on the main antagonist, Yhwach.
Although Bleach’s original ending was criticized, the Thousand-Year Blood War will hopefully give the fans some much-needed closure for the anime. The new installment has presumably been divided into four parts, with an unknown release date for the finale.
About the author
Kristina Ebanez
Kristina is a Staff Writer and has been with Twinfinite for more than a year. She typically covers Minecraft, The Sims 4, Disney Dreamlight Valley, anime, Call of Duty, and newly released games. She loves the Metal Gear Solid series (Snake Eater especially), Rockstar’s Bully, the Horizon franchise, What Remains of Edith Finch, and many more. Her dog is also an avid video game watcher, primarily when there’s a horse or a cat. She has a Bachelor’s degree in English from the University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo and grew up gaming on the islands.
2023 flew by—hardships and all. It was only by its end, observing the releases of the year, when I realized how many absolutely incredible anime series had come along.
These series compassionately explored trauma, reinvestigated the stereotypical endings of the “girl meets boy” genre, delicately wondered what the meaning of life is once you stop defining yourself by your work, and heralded a new era of hope by referencing Tex Avery. The fact that series like Oshi no Ko, Jujutsu Kaisen, and Trigun Stampede—with huge fan followings—were relegated in my mind to “honorable mentions” only goes to show how strong the year was as a whole.
10. The Apothecary Diaries
(Toho Animation Studio)
There are numerous ways in which The Apothecary Diaries stands out. Primary among them is Maomao, the titular apothecary and an incredible protagonist. She’s clever and particular, but struggles with the conundrum of following her conscience and keeping her head down—making her quite easy to empathize with. The series also takes place in an unusual setting for anime: 15th century China. Add to this gorgeous animation and a slew of engaging mysteries, and you have one hell of a series.
9. Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba – Swordsmith Village Arc
(Ufotable)
Despite being one of the most hyped anime series of the past several years, 2023 is the year that Demon Slayer really and truly clicked for me. A huge part of that shift lies on the shoulders of Mitsuri Kanroji, the Love Hashira, who was an absolute joy to behold and whose backstory about what the pressures of what a woman “should” be like tugged at my heartstrings.
But furthermore, the removed nature of the Swordsmith Village arc allowed Tanjiro and Nezuko space to fully grow, with a conclusion that made me way more emotional than I would’ve anticipated.
8. Attack on Titan Final Season: The Final Chapters
(MAPPA)
One of the most important—and most controversial—anime series of the last decade has come to a close. The first of the two movie-length episodes of Attack on Titan: The Final Chapters delivered one of the most epic, moving character deaths of the year. The second learned from the missteps of the manga, delivering an impactful ending worthy of these characters that so many of us have spent a very tumultuous decade with.
7. My Hero Academia
(Bones)
The second cour of My Hero Academia’s sixth season, which aired during the first quarter of the year, is the best the long-running, beloved shounen has ever been. The series began finally digging into the tougher, darker themes that have been running underneath it for years, with incredible results. There were three major tear-jerker episodes in a row, culminating with a profound, compassionate, and resonant speech that, to get personal for a second, fundamentally changed how I think about my goals in writing for the media. It is arguably the best anime moment of the year.
6. Buddy Daddies
(P.A. Works)
Buddy Daddies was one of the biggest surprises of the winter season, but perhaps even more surprising is its staying power, even as 2023 has offered several incredible series. Hell, I saw a ferris wheel last week and still got a little misty-eyed. Buddy Daddies is beautifully emotionally vulnerable, exploring the idea of intergenerational trauma—and what it takes to heal from it—with heartbreaking sincerity.
Buddy Daddies got tagged as “gay Spy x Family,” but unlike Loid Forger, both of the assassins/fathers are obviously flawed people who are simply trying their best—which is precisely why the series is so warm and heartfelt.
5. One Piece
(Toei Animation)
2023 was truly the year of One Piece—and I’m not even talking about the live-action adaptation. After more than four years, the anime has officially wrapped up the Wano arc. In the process, it continued to deliver some of the most stunning and unique fight sequences of the year, with climaxes so triumphant that even I, a manga reader who knew what would happen, teared up a few times.
As 2023 trudged on, I noticed something becoming alarmingly, widely present among my peers and within myself: burnout. And so if I could pick one series to describe 2023, it might (unfortunately) be Zom 100: Bucket List of the Dead, whose absolutely brilliant first episode is one of the most accurate, affecting depictions of workplace toxicity and burnout I’ve ever seen.
There’s a reason the show nails the tone so thoroughly: The studio Akira works for, ZLM, is clearly a jab at OLM, the studio that makes Pokémon. (Zom 100′s studio, refreshingly, also practices what it preaches, opting for delayed episode releases over grinding its animators into he ground.)
Coming from an existentially dark place so many people understand, Zom 100 turns the zombie apocalypse into something funny and joyful—but resonant all the time.
3. Pluto
(Netflix)
If Buddy Daddies will make you cry at the sight of a ferris wheel, after one episode, Pluto risks reducing you to a puddle at the mere sight of a piano.
Pluto—which is a darker retelling of an arc from Osamu Tezuki’s foundational classic Astro Boy (a.k.a. Tetsuwan Atom)—found itself premiering in a timely fashion, in the midst of a lot of real-world anxiety about the ways in which AI will reduce the job market. It grapples with the hardship of AI taking over, say, creative work, while also effortlessly wooing the audience to have their hearts break over a robot in a maid outfit within less than 30 minutes of its runtime. Pluto is profound and beautifully animated—and one hell of a good mystery show, too.
2. Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End
(Madhouse)
For a series that deeply embeds itself within the well-worn grooves of high fantasy, Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End has an incredibly unusual and fascinating premise. Its first episode drops you off at the very end of a Baldur’s Gate 3-level epicD&D campaign. The series then becomes about what it means that the elf mage, Frieren, inevitably outlives the rest of the party. While there’s certainly action, Frieren thrives when it’s at its most meditative. It’s a stunningly gorgeous, deliberate, and even-keeled look at what it means to really live—and, therefore, to die.
1. Scott Pilgrim Takes Off
(Netflix)
In Scott Pilgrim Takes Off, the always-brilliant Science Saru took the most epic reunion of the last decade and delivered something suspiciously close to perfect. Scott Pilgrim Takes Off learns from and ingeniously addresses the issues that arose from the original Scott Pilgrim series and film, creating something in conversation with itself in the most hilarious, thoughtful ways possible.
It delivers a message that very few pieces of media dare to explore, and even fewer land: There’s no such thing as a fairytale “happily ever after,” because life is more complicated than that—but the absence of that fairytale ending doesn’t mean despair or failure, either. People are messy, and it’s okay if our joys, our loves, our ups and downs are a little messy, too.
The anime universe can be a lot to handle when first diving in, especially if you are in the market to buy a present for that special someone. We’re here to help you narrow down the search by providing you with some anime gift ideas for the holiday season.
Lenticular Artwork by Dominic Glover
Image Source: Dominic Glover
Dominic Glover has some of the most unique anime artwork, as its design changes based on the angle you are looking at. While one side showcases a focused Naruto, the other exhibits him in action during an all-out battle. It’s almost as if it’s a moving picture without the need for any electronics, creating an illusion with its different perspectives.
Glover’s collection harnesses a plethora of anime to choose from, from Demon Slayer to Dragon Ball Super to One Piece. However, you may want to get your hands on it fast since their products are typically sold out with their constant high demand.
An Ode to Attack on Titan Final Season
Image Source: Etsy & Hot Topic
If your special someone considers themself to be a member of the Scout Regiment, then you should definitely get them a gift to commemorate AOT’s finale. First up, we have the “I Survived All Parts of AOT: The Final Season” sticker, which can act as a badge of honor for dedicated fans.
You can also go for the classic Scout Regiment jackets that every Attack on Titan has wished for at some point in their life. To keep things simple, you can acquire a hoodie or shirt version at Hot Topic. Or, purchasers can go for a more cozy approach with its cloak blanket variation.
Jujutsu Kaisen Manga Woven Blankets
Image Source: Etsy
Another big anime that continues to dominate viewership is the action-packed Jujutsu Kaisen. That said, you can’t go wrong with ALLEVRO’s hand-woven manga blankets that show off the elite Satoru Gojo. The artist’s creation is perfect for those who enjoy manga and anime, reimagining these covers in an entirely new way.
ALLEVRO’s products come in many different shapes and sizes, as well as alternative design choices based on the Jujutsu Kaisen series. But if your Otaku prefers another anime, you can browse through the artist’s collection to discover other remarkable finds, including My Hero Academia, Hunter x Hunter, and Chainsaw Man.
Anime Funko Pops
Image Source: Funko
Funko’s Anime and Manga collection features many famous characters, including Dragon Ball Z, Fullmetal Alchemist, and Yu-Gi-Oh!. Figures generally cost around 12 to 15 dollars, so you don’t have to spend an exorbitant amount of money, as you may have seen with other high-priced items.
If you aren’t sure which Funko to decide on, you can filter in some content by checking out the best-selling or most exclusive products. Purchasers can also take it a step further with scenic pops that typically capture an iconic moment from the show. For instance, the Pop! Moment Eren & Zeke Jaeger takes you back to the infamous conversation shown in AOT.
Studio Ghibli Steelbooks
Image Source: Crunchyroll
When in doubt about anime gift ideas, you can always rely on the Studio Ghibli collection for presents. Any anime fan will undoubtedly have at least one favorite film, and you can use it to your advantage by getting them the Steelbook version. It’s the perfect collector’s item that commemorates the breathtaking art style of Hayao Miyazaki.
The Crunchyroll shop features Spirited Away, Howl’s Moving Castle, My Neighbor Totoro, and many more. On top of that, Miyazaki has recently launched the film The Boy and the Heron, so you may want to gift them movie tickets to give them some new content.
Demon Slayer Kimonos
Image Source: Anime Kimono
Another popular anime of 2023 is none other than Demon Slayer, with the most recent Swordsmith Village arc. There’s a lot of excellent anime gift ideas for this beloved series, but the one that takes the cake is the kimono collection. You can start with the main protagonist’s iconic clothing, exhibiting the classic green and black checkered design.
It doesn’t even have to stop at Tanjiro’s get-up with the numerous variations from other lovable characters. In particular, you can purchase outfits based on Giyu Tomioka, Shinobu Kocho, and Nezuko. You can also explore Anime Kimono’s personal designs that add a unique twist to the series’ fashion.
One Piece Wanted Posters
Image Source: Etsy & One Piece Store
One Piece has taken the world by storm (again) with Netflix’s live adaptation and the exciting new content from the animated series. If there’s one thing that any OP fan wants, it’s definitely the show’s wanted posters. Your best bet would probably be Monkey D. Luffy’s famous smiley-faced bounty or any of the other Straw Hat members like Roronoa Zoro.
But if your Otaku has been explicitly obsessed with the One Piece live-action, then head over to Etsy to claim some wanted posters there. PotterTatts’ selection showcases Monkey D. Luffy, Gold D. Roger, Buggy, and Arlong, along with various sizes (and a digital download.)
Manga Sets
Image Source: Amazon
Complete manga sets are another excellent anime gift idea that continues on the adventures in written and hand-drawn form. In general, it can be difficult to obtain each book individually, so having the set can help them experience the narrative as a whole.
One of my favorites has to be the Dragon Ball Z collection (or the Dragon Ball series, if I’m being more specific) due to its connected illustrations on its spines. Alternatively, you can go for an ongoing anime like Demon Slayer and Jujutsu Kaisen to give them some insight into what’s to come. You can also purchase them an entirely new manga set that hasn’t yet debuted as an anime if you want something more unique.
SeerLight’s Anime Artwork
Image Source: Seerlight
As an anime lover myself, I’ve always marveled at Seerlight’s artwork through their usage of vibrant colors and subtle placement of anime characters. Even those who haven’t watched any anime will be in awe of its design, whether it be through the artist’s print or phone case collection.
The artwork above shows the Cowboy Bebop-inspired High-Rise, the Hunter’s Inn, and the Meteor Shower depicted in Your Name. Even more so, Seerlight has unleashed a live wallpaper series on their Patreon, which brings your phone’s photographs to life with various anime.
Personalized Anime Portraits
Image Source: Etsy
For a more personal touch, you can get your friend or family member a customized anime portrait from Etsy. The highly recommended BlueMintAnime can use your suggestions to create your very own artwork, with a maximum of six characters (pets can be included, too.) The artist can work with almost any anime, regardless of its popularity, and an added bonus of a background.
Purchasers can explore the Etsy page to find even more depictions, like DoyourToon’s Haikyuu-inspired artwork. On a more bizarre note, you can turn your Otaku into a Titan using JasuDigitalArts’ many templates.
About the author
Kristina Ebanez
Kristina is a Staff Writer and has been with Twinfinite for more than a year. She typically covers Minecraft, The Sims 4, Disney Dreamlight Valley, anime, Call of Duty, and newly released games. She loves the Metal Gear Solid series (Snake Eater especially), Rockstar’s Bully, the Horizon franchise, What Remains of Edith Finch, and many more. Her dog is also an avid video game watcher, primarily when there’s a horse or a cat. She has a Bachelor’s degree in English from the University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo and grew up gaming on the islands.
