The highly anticipated anime adaptation of Yura Urushibara’s manga, ‘Tougen Anki: Dark Demon of Paradise,’ has revealed a new trailer, key visual, and crucial details about its production team and cast. The series is set to premiere in July 2025, offering a fresh take on the classic Japanese folktale of Momotaro. The anime, produced by Studio Hibari, promises an action-packed and visually stunning experience for fans.
New Trailer and Key Visual Released
The newly released trailer provides a glimpse into the intense world of ‘Tougen Anki’, showcasing the conflict between those with Oni (demon) blood and those with Momotaro blood. The key visual highlights the main characters – Shiki Ichinose, Jin Kougasaki, and Naito Mudano – unleashing their Oni powers in a visually striking scene. The contrast of red Oni blood against a teal night sky illuminated by a full moon emphasizes the supernatural elements at play.
Additional Cast Members Announced
Alongside the main cast, several new voice actors have been announced, enriching the ensemble with talent:
- Homare Byobugaura, voiced by Manaka Iwami
- Ikari Yaoroshi, voiced by Shogo Sakata
- Juji Yusurube, voiced by Natsuki Hanae
- Rokuro Kiriyama, voiced by Kaito Miura
- Kuina Sazanami, voiced by Aimi
These new additions join the previously announced leads:
- Shiki Ichinose, voiced by Kazuki Ura
- Naito Mudano, voiced by Hiroshi Kamiya
- Jin Kougasaki, voiced by Koutaro Nishiyama
The dynamic cast brings a wide range of experience to their roles, promising to bring the complex characters of ‘Tougen Anki’ to life.
Production Staff Details Revealed
The anime is helmed by a talented team, with Ato Nonaka directing the series. Nonaka’s experience includes work on notable series such as Fate/Zero and Please! Einzbern Counseling Room, setting a high standard for the anime’s direction.
The key staff includes:
- Assistant Director: Hiroyuki Hashimoto.
- Series Composition and Screenplay: Yukie Sugawara, known for her work on The Idolm@ster SideM and No Guns Life.
- Character Designer: Ryoko Amisaki.
- Art Director: Scott MacDonald.
- Music Composer: Kohta Yamamoto, who has worked on Kingdom and Attack on Titan Final Season.
- Animation Production: Studio Hibari (known for Classroom of the Elite and Monster Strike).
- Art Designer: Hiroyuki Becchaku
- Color Designer: Saki Tada.
- Composite Director: Naoki Serizawa.
- CG Director: Ryota Fukushima.
- Editor: Yumika Okazaki.
- Sound Director: Satoki Iida.
- Music Production: Pony Canyon.
Storyline and Themes
‘Tougen Anki’ delves into the ancient conflict between the descendants of Oni and Momotaro. The story unfolds as follows:
- Ancient Conflict: The bloodlines of Oni and Momotaro have been passed down through generations. The Oni, aware of their violent nature, lived in seclusion until they were attacked by Momotaro. This led to the formation of the Momotaro Agency and the Oni Agency, locked in a perpetual struggle.
- Shiki’s Awakening: The protagonist, Shiki Ichinose, discovers his Oni lineage after a sudden attack by Momotaro. This revelation sets him on a path to understanding his demonic heritage and fulfilling his destiny.
- Revenge and Self-Discovery: Shiki’s journey is driven by revenge after his foster father is killed protecting him, while also exploring his internal struggle to control his Oni powers. He is guided by Naito Mudano, an Oni teacher at the Rakshasa Academy.
The narrative explores themes of identity, destiny, and the complex nature of good and evil, as Shiki grapples with his dual heritage.
Manga’s Success and Anime Adaptation
The manga series by Yura Urushibara has gained significant popularity since its debut in 2020, with over 3 million copies in print. It is serialized in Akita Shoten’s Weekly Shōnen Champion magazine. The anime adaptation was announced in May 2024, marking the next phase of the ‘Tougen Anki Project.’ Yen Press publishes the English version under the title ‘Tougen Anki: Legend of the Cursed Blood.’
The anime promises to bring the manga’s dynamic art style and intense battles to life, and the newly released trailer has already generated buzz among anime fans. The series will broadcast in Japan on the Nippon Television network.
Anticipation for the July Premiere
With a talented production team, a stellar voice cast, and a gripping storyline, the ‘Tougen Anki’ anime is poised to be a standout series of 2025. The combination of action, supernatural elements, and the exploration of complex characters makes this a must-watch for anime enthusiasts. The new trailer and key visual have heightened the excitement, and fans eagerly await the premiere in July 2025.
