"Re:zero-Starting New Life in Another World 2nd Season" ranked on the top! What do you watch for "summer 2020" anime? Popular ranking from d Anime Store

The manga artist Kayaharuka-san, who was in charge of the manga of "The Misfit of Demon King Academy" has passed away on July 6, 2021. "The Misfit of Demon King Academy" is based on the academy fantasy light novel written by Shuu and illustrated by Shizuma Yoshinori. The first season of the anime was broadcast in July 2020, and it was decided that the 2nd season will be broadcast in two cour. The manga by Kaya-san has started serialization in July 2018, on Square Enix's online manga application "Manga UP!". The obituary of Kaya-san was announced on the official website of "Manga UP!" on July 13. On the report of the said website, "We would like to announced that the manga artist Kayaharuka-sensei that was loved by the readers had passed away on July 6, 2021. " followed with "We are speechless from this sudden news. As Kayaharuka-sensei has drawn the charming illustrations with the skills and passion, we are regretting over this news. All of us from the editorial department are grateful for the illustration drawn by Kayaharuka-sensei as well as hoping that sensei soul can rest in peace." Also, after the obituary was announced, the words, such as "Kayaharuka-san", "Haruka-san's Death", and "The Misfit of Demon King Academy", have become a trend on Twitter. Some of the comments from the large fan database are "It a bit sad as this is a work that I'm looking forward to... Please rest in peace", "I can't hide my shock... I love it so much", and "I love the manga drawn by this person! Thank you for the manga up until now!”

Season 2 of the TV anime "The Misfit of Demon King Academy: History's Strongest Demon King Reincarnates and Goes to School with His Descendants" has been decided, and it will be split into two cour. The teaser visual, teaser PV, and the announcement trailer with the cast members’ comments have been released. Of course, the message from the main protagonist Anos has also been released. "The Misfit of Demon King Academy: History's Strongest Demon King Reincarnates and Goes to School with His Descendants" is a fantasy story featuring the main protagonist, the "Demon King of Tyranny" Anos Voldigoad, who got fed up with the long-lasting war and got reincarnated in the peaceful times. After being reincarnated, he enrolled into the "Demon King Academy", the school that gathered the demon king candidate, but he was branded as a misfit. Anos, who was being looked down on by everyone due to his status, was joined by the gentle girl Misha as he seeks to be the top of the demon's hierarchy. Season 1 of the TV anime was broadcast from July 2020 to September 2020 with a total of 13 episodes. It was announced SILVER LINK. will continue their position as the animation production for the 2 cour of the TV anime season 2. In the trailer the captures the situation during the announcement in the "KADOKAWA Light Novel EXPO 2020" also known as "Ranosupo", the joy from the main cast members, which are Suzuki Tatsuya, Kusunoki Tomori, and Natsuyoshi Yuuko, could be seen. Do look forward to the future announcements. Main Protagonist Anos Voldigoad The mask is hiding the truth. What's more, there are two of them. There is one more fact about the truth of my blank two thousand years... Well, there is nothing to be worried about. I will reveal all the hidden evil deeds and destroyed it. So, do look forward to that time. （C）2021 Aki/KADOKAWA/Demon King Academy

The 1/7 scale swimsuit figure of Misha Necron from "The Misfit of Demon King Academy" has been announced. It will be available on Dengeki-ya. KADOKAWA Store, Ebten, and other nationwide hobby shops. The product "Misha Necron Swimsuit Ver." is a 3D model of the swimsuit illustration drawn by the original illustrator Shizuma Yoshinori for Dengeki Bunko official freebooter book. Under the supervision of the original author Aki and illustrator Shizuma Yoshinori, the allure of Misha's smile, where you can feel the hidden kindness among the reserved smile. Even the simple swimsuit design is well-expressed with the delicate molding and painting, which draws out Misha's well-featured proportions. Also, the premium edition "KADOKAWA Special Set" that comes with a B2 tapestry with the motif illustration, is available on Dengeki-ya, KADOKAWA Store, and Ebten. Please do check it out. "Misha Necron Swimsuit Ver." normal edition is priced 13,000 JPY (tax excluded) while KADOKAWA special set is priced at 15,500 JPY (tax excluded). Pre-orders are currently available on Dengeki-ya. KADOKAWA Store, Ebten, and other nationwide hobby shops. （C）2019 Aki/KADOKAWA/Demon King Academy

A special program "12 Nights in a Row! Super Strong Protagonist Anime Festival", which features anime with "Super Strong Protagonists" including "Sword Art Online" and "The Irregular at Magic High School", will be held on the TV & video entertainment service "ABEMA" from Oct. 19. Also, the results of the survey conducted by "ABEMA" Anime official Twitter asking, "Who is the strongest protagonist?" were announced. "12 Nights in a Row! Super Strong Protagonist Anime Festival" will be featuring anime starring protagonists with "Super Strong" abilities for 12 days (Oct. 19 through Oct. 30). The program will be broadcast for free from 7:30 P.M. every day. The featured titles are "Cautious Hero: The Hero Is Overpowered but Overly Cautious", "Sword Art Online", "The Irregular at Magic High School", "Overlord" series, and "The Misfit of Demon King Academy". In the "Who is the strongest protagonist?" survey which included the titles that have been aired on "ABEMA", Ryuguuin Seiya from "Cautious Hero: The Hero Is Overpowered but Overly Cautious" topped the list. He received comments pointing out not only his strength and "cautiousness" but also how they admired his thoughts behind them such as, "Being overly cautious means he is always alert. So I think he will never lose", and "He considers all possibilities to beat even the ones that are stronger than him." The special program on "ABEMA", "12 Nights in a Row! Super Strong Protagonist Anime Festival", will be broadcast on "Anime Live 2 Channel", starting off with all episodes of "Cautious Hero: The Hero Is Overpowered but Overly Cautious" from 7:30 P.M. on Oct. 19. Let's refresh our feelings by watching the achievements of the "Super Powerful Protagonists". (C)Tsuchihi Light, Toyota Saori / Kadokawa / Cautious Hero Production Committee (C)Kawahara Reki / ASCII Media Works / SAO Project (C)2013 Satou Tsutomu / Kadokawa ASCII Media Works / Magic High School Production Committee (C)Maruyama Kugane, Kadokawa / Overlord Production Committee (C)2019 Autumn / Kadokawa / Demon King Academy

The latest visual of the TV anime "Fire Force Season 2" that marks the start of "United Front with Company 2 Arc" from episode 19 "Oze Family", has been revealed. Also, the additional casts and character were announced, which are Ono Yuuki will be voicing Takigi Oze and Toriumi Kohsuke will be voicing Hajiki. Their comments have been revealed as well. After the "Haijima's Shinigami Arc" that revolves a three-way battle over the "sixth pillar" between "Special Fire Force Company 8", "Haijima Industries" and the "White Clad", "United Front with Company 2 Arc" will once again take place at the "Netherworld". While Special Fire Force Company 8 is getting closer to the mystery of the white-clad and the "Evangelist ", Maki was requested to be transfered to the military by her family. While being separated from her precious friends, Special Fire Force Company 8 had once again stepped into the "Netherworld". What awaits the Special Fire Force Company 8 in their second trip to "Netherworld"? Do look forward to it as the story is approaching the most interesting part. Also, it was announced that the additional characters in "United Front with Company 2 Arc" are Takigi Oze, Maki's older brother and Tokyo Imperial Army, first lieutenant, criminal detective, and the captain of the Special Fire Force Company 2, Hajiki. Takigi Oze will be voiced by Ono Yuuki while Hajiki will be voiced by Toriumi Kohsuke. Regarding their appearance, Ono said, "He has a stubborn side but he actually is quite a good guy. After voicing him, I found out that it was quite fun while expressing his emotion!" while Toriumi said "He is quite big-hearted, and not only is he capable in his work, he is also a cool adult that has an extreme humane side.” TV anime "Fire Force Season 2" is currently being aired on MBS, TBS, BS-TBS, and other 21 channels. Ono Yuuki Q1 Do tell us your impression of Takigi Oze. I was a fan of the original work before this, and I have the thought of "If I was giving an offer to voice character, wouldn't it be Takigi?", so when I actually got the offer, I can't stop smiling...! He has a stubborn side but he actually is quite a good guy. After voicing him, I found out that it was quite fun while expressing his emotion! Q2 Do give us a message to the fans that are looking forward to this. The Oze family had finally gathered! This is a very unique family so I am glad to be part of them. Fire Force will be getting more interesting, so do look forward to it as well as the appearance of the Oze family! Toriumi Kohsuke Q1 Do tell us your impression of Hajiki. At first glance, it seems that he is an easygoing person but he actually has a wide perception, good at looking after others, and is quite big-hearted, so he is not only capable in his work, he is also a cool adult that has an extreme humane side. Q2 Do give us a message to the fans that are looking forward to this. I'm Toriumi Kohsuke and I will be voicing Hajiki. It is quite interesting and fantastic work. I really enjoyed it during the recording. Please, do look forward to it （C）Ookubo Atsushi, Kodansha／Special Fire Force Video PR Section

From TV anime "Uzaki-chan Wants to Hang Out!" come the dakimakura (hugging bolster) covers with an original illustration of the annoying cute heroine, Uzaki Hana, and her mother Uzaki Tsuki. Pre-orders are currently available at "Hobby Japan" online shop. The product "'HS Limited' Uzaki-chan Wants to Hang Out! Dakimakura Uzaki Hana/ Uzaki Tsuki" is a product where you can enjoy Uzaki Hana/ Uzaki Tsuki in their room wear and swimsuit on both sides. The illustrations of both characters are newly drawn, and the "Aqua Premier (2-ways tricot)", which was created for the greatest elegance, was used as the fabric. "'HS Limited' Uzaki-chan Wants to Hang Out! Dakimakura Uzaki Hana/ Uzaki Tsuki" are priced at 12,000 JPY (tax excluded) respectively. Pre-orders are currently available at "Hobby Japan" online shop, and shipping is scheduled for November. （C）2020 Take／KADOKAWA／Uzaki-chan Wants to Hang Out! Production Committee

"ABEMA" has announced the top 5 work of the "Final Ranking", based on the new anime that started broadcasting in July 2020. "Sword Art Online Alicization War of Underworld" (Final Chapter) has taken the two-tops in the most views and most commented category. The "Final Ranking" is based on the new anime that started broadcasting in July 2020. The most views category is based on the view's count of the first broadcast of the first episode until the last episode and also the archive view at "ABEMA Video" while the most comments category is based on the number of comment on the first broadcast of the first episode until the last episode. For the most views category, the 1st place goes to "Sword Art Online Alicization War of Underworld" (Final Chapter). It has also taken the first place in the "Mid Ranking" that was announced by "ABEMA", and this shows that this is a popular work. The rest of the results are as follows: "Re:Zero − Starting Life in Another World 2nd season" in 2nd place, "The Misfit of Demon King Academy" in 3rd place, "Uzaki-chan Wants to Hang Out!" in 4th place with "Deca-Dence" in 5th place. Also, the 1st place for the most comments category is also taken by "Sword Art Online Alicization War of Underworld" (Final Chapter), and it had achieved two-top in the "Final Ranking". The rest of the results are as follows: "Re:Zero − Starting Life in Another World 2nd season" in 2nd place, "Uzaki-chan Wants to Hang Out!" in 3rd place, "The Misfit of Demon King Academy" in 4th place with "Deca-Dence" in 5th place. The top 5 works is available at "ABEMA". So do check it out if you haven't. "ABEMA" 2020 Summer's Anime Final Ranking ・Most Views Category 1st Place: "Sword Art Online Alicization War of Underworld" (Final Chapter) 2nd Place: "Re:Zero − Starting Life in Another World 2nd season" 3rd Place: "The Misfit of Demon King Academy" 4th Place: "Uzaki-chan Wants to Hang Out!" 5th Place: "Deca-Dence" ・Most Comments Category 1st Place: "Sword Art Online Alicization War of Underworld" (Final Chapter) 2nd Place: "Re:Zero − Starting Life in Another World 2nd season" 3rd Place: "Uzaki-chan Wants to Hang Out!" 4th Place: "The Misfit of Demon King Academy" 5th Place: "Deca-Dence"

The summary and cut-scene of TV anime "Gibiate"'s episode 12 "Inochi no Hateniha" broadcast on Sep. 30 (Wed), have been revealed. "Gibiate" is an original anime that depicts the human drama of the protagonists surviving in the wasteland world where humans turned into a monsters due to diseases. It is an anime that gathers the "legend creators", such as Amano Yoshitaka, Serizawa Naoki, and Kodai Yuuzou, people who are active in culture scenes mainly with Japanese video games, manga, and anime. In episode 12, Professor Yoshinaga has a sudden change, and Sensui and Kenroku are struggling. It revolved around the deadly battle with the thoughts of their fallen comrade in their heart! Then, everything will be revealed, and the shocking finale is... TV anime "Gibiate"'s episode 12 "Inochi no Hateniha" was broadcast on Sep. 30 (Wed) on TOKYO MX and other channels. （C）"GIBIATE PROJECT" Production Committee

The staff and cast for the short animation titled “Aoi Hane Mitsuekta!”, produced by the new company of Studio Colorido’s founder Uda Hideo called Noovo Inc., have been announced.

The anime streaming service "d Anime Store" conducted a survey on which autumn 2020 anime people are continuously watching. These are the results of the survey "Which Autumn 2020 Anime Are You Watching?", which received 151,791 votes in total. The overall ranking was a close contest, and topping the list was "Jujutsu Kaisen" with 9,381 votes. It ranked 5th place for male viewers, but for female viewers, it received way more votes than other popular titles such as, "Haikyuu!! To The Top" and "Hypnosis Mic: Division Rap Battle: Rhyme Anima", boosting it to the top of the overall ranking. Coming in 2nd in the overall ranking was "The Irregular at Magic High School: Visitor Arc" with 9,142. In the "Which Autumn 2020 Anime Will You Watch?", the pre-broadcast survey conducted by d Anime in October, the work topped most of the categories (20s, 30s, 40s, 50s, 60s, 70s, and male viewers), but it settled for 2nd place in this survey with 239 votes shy from 1st place. 3rd place in the overall ranking went to "Wandering Witch: The Journey of Elaina" with 8,532 votes. It was at 9th place in the pre-broadcast survey "Which Autumn 2020 Anime Will You Watch?", but it moved up the list after the broadcast started. The following titles were "Is It Wrong to Try to Pick Up Girls in a Dungeon? III" at 4th place with 7,541 votes and "The Day I Became a God" at 5th place with 7,494 votes. See the special webpage for the results of the overall ranking from 6th to 46th place, as well as the gender and age group rankings. 【Overall Ranking】 Voting Period: Friday, October 23 to Noon on Friday, October 30 Total Votes: 151,791 votes 1. 9,381 votes Jujutsu Kaisen 2. 9,142 votes The Irregular at Magic High School: Visitor Arc 3. 8,532 votes Wandering Witch: The Journey of Elaina 4. 7,541 votes Is It Wrong to Try to Pick Up Girls in a Dungeon? III 5. 7,494 votes The Day I Became a God (C) 2019 Satou Tsutomu / Kadokawa / Magic High School 2 Production Committee (C) Akutami Gege / Shueisha, Jujutsu Kaisen Production Committee (C) Shiraishi Jougi, SB Creative / Wandering Witch: The Journey of Elaina Production Committee

The anime streaming service "d Anime Store" conducted a survey on the popularity of autumn 2020 anime. "What will you watch this season? Autumn 2020 Anime Survey" received a total of 92,891 votes, and the results were... Topping the list of the overall ranking was "The Irregular at Magic High School: Visitor Arc" with 7,759 votes. This is the latest series of "The Irregular at Magic High School" based on the light novel serialized by Satou Tsutomu in "Dengeki Bunko Magazine". The 1st season of the TV anime was aired in 2014, and a film was released in 2017. It is so popular that it was at the top of almost all categories, 20s, 30s, 40s, 50s, 60s, 70s by age group, and male by gender. Coming in 2nd in the overall ranking was "Is It Wrong to Try to Pick Up Girls in a Dungeon? Season 3" with 1,510 votes. It is the latest "DanMachi" series based on the light novel serialized by Oomori Fujino in "GA Bunko". It has been developing energetically with season 1 of the TV anime in 2015, a side story anime "Sword Oratoria" in 2017, season 2, and a film in 2019. 3rd place in the overall ranking went to "Is the Order a Rabbit?: Bloom" with 4,355 votes. It is based on the four-panel manga serialized by Koi in "Manga Time Kirara Max". The 1st season of the TV anime series was released in 2014, 2nd season in 2015, the OVA "Dear My Sister" in 2017, and the OVA "Sing For You" in 2019. Many sequels of TV series ranked high in the overall ranking, but there were also works such as, "Jujutsu Kaisen", based on the manga series in "Weekly Shonen Jump", "The Day I Became a God", the 3rd original anime presented by Key × Aniplex × P.A. Works, "Higurashi When They Cry" and "Dragon Quest: The Adventure of Dai" which have been revived in 2020. Check out the special webpage for the results for each ranking. d Anime Store "What will you watch this season? Autumn 2020 Anime Survey" Overall Ranking (multiple choice allowed) Voting Period: Friday, Sep. 25 to noon Friday, Oct. 2 1st Place: 7,759 votes, "The Irregular at Magic High School: Visitor Arc" 2nd Place: 7,047 votes, "Is It Wrong to Try to Pick Up Girls in a Dungeon? Season 3" 3rd Place: 4,355 votes, "Is the Order a Rabbit?: Bloom" 4th Place: 4,310 votes, "Haikyuu!! To The Top" 2nd cour 5th Place: 4,066 votes, "Jujutsu Kaisen" 6th Place: 3,983 votes, "The Day I Became a God" 7th Place: 3,412 votes, "Higurashi When They Cry" 8th Place: 2,842 votes, "By the Grace of the Gods" 9th Place: 2,761 votes, "Wandering Witch: The Journey of Elaina" 10th Place: 2,497 votes, "Dragon Quest: The Adventure of Dai"

"Re:Zero − Starting Life in Another World: Lost in Memories", the smartphone RPG with a scenario supervised by the original author Nagatsuki Tappei, is celebrating its 1st anniversary. Let's take a look at some notable topics, future developments, and comments of celebration from 13 cast members!

To commemorate the birthday of the heroine Emilia from the "Re: Life in a Different World from Zero" series, a special project "Emilia-tan every week until EMB (Emilia-tan Maji Birthday)" will be held at ABEMA every week. For Emilia's birthday, the "Re: Zero" series will be distributed all at once for four consecutive weeks from September 23, 2021. Emilia, from the "Re: Zero" series, is the gentle, friendly, and hard-working main heroine that stole the heart of the main character Subaru. In the "Re: Zero The Frozen Bond" released in 2019, Emilia is the main character, and her encounter with the contracted spirit Puck is also depicted. "Emilia-tan every week until EMB (Emilia-tan Maji Birthday)" announced this time is a countdown project for Emilia's birthday. From September 3, 2021, "Re: Zero New Edition", "Re: Zero Memory Snow", "Re: Zero The Frozen Bond", and "Re: Zero 2nd season" will be gradually distributed at once for four weeks. ■ Emilia's birthday commemoration! "Re: Life in a Different World from Zero" Series Weekly Countdown Broadcast Overview ▼ "Re: Life in a Different World from Zero New Edition" # 1-11 Delivery all at once & "Re: Life in a Different World from Zero Memory Snow" Delivery ・ "Re: Life in a Different World from Zero New Edition" # 1-11 Delivery date and time: Friday, September 3, 2021, from 3:30 pm Saturday, September 4, 8:30 am Distribution channel: Anime LIVE channel ・ "Re: Life in a Different World from Zero Memory Snow" Delivery date and time: Friday, September 3, 2021, from 8:50 pm Saturday, September 4 from 1:50 pm Distribution channel: Anime LIVE channel ▼ "Re: Life in a Different World from Zero The Frozen Bond" Delivery & "Re: Life in a Different World from Zero New Edition" # 12-25 Delivery all at once ・ "Re: Life in a Different World from Zero The Frozen Bond" Delivery date and time: Saturday, September 11, 2021 from 11:20 am, from 7:10 pm Sunday, September 12 from 8:30 am Distribution channel: Anime LIVE channel ・ "Re: Life in a Different World from Zero New Edition" #12∼15 Delivery date and time: Saturday, September 11, 2021 from 12:40 pm, from 8:30 pm ｜Sunday, September 12 from 9:50 am Distribution channel: Anime LIVE channel ▼ "Re: Life in a Different World from Zero Season 2" Delivery all at once ・ # 1 ~ 13 Delivery date and time: Saturday, September 18, 2021, from 2:00 pm to 8:00 pm Sunday, September 19 from 1:55 pm Distribution channel: Anime LIVE channel ・ # 14-25 Delivery date: September 23, 2021 (Thursday / holiday) 9:05 am, 3:30 pm Friday, September 24 from 9:00 am Distribution channel: Anime LIVE channel (C) Nagatsuki Tappei, published by KADOKAWA Co., Ltd./Re: Life in a different world starting from zero 1 Production Committee (C) Nagatsuki Tappei, published by KADOKAWA Co., Ltd./Re: Life in a Different World from Zero Production Committee (C) Nagatsuki Tappei, published by KADOKAWA Co., Ltd./Re: Life in a Different World from Zero 2 Production Committee

'"Re:Zero − Starting Life in Another World" Tropical Rem Glass' is now on resale. Pre-orders are currently available on Animo from August 31 to September 2, 2021. This glass has a design of stunning "Rem" in a swimsuit. The printed design perfectly matches a glass, so the item is also perfect for home decor. "Tropical Rem Glass" is priced at 1,100 JPY (incl. tax). The pre-order period will close on September 2, and the release date is scheduled in late October. ■Product Details ■Brand: "Cospa" ■Price: 1,100 JPY (incl. tax) ■Size: approx. W6.5×H12 cm ■Material: glass ■Sales Website: Animo ■Pre-order Period: August 31 - September 2 (C)Nagatsuki Tappei, Kadokawa / Re:Zero − Starting Life in Another World Production Committee

From "Re:Zero − Starting Life in Another World", a new online kuji(lottery) to celebrate Emilia's birthday early will be available on "KUJIBIKIDO" from noon on September 1, 2021. The original gifts for '"Re:Zero − Starting Life in Another World" Kuji Mini!' feature the mini characters' illustrations inspired by cakes. The line-up, developed to celebrate Emilia's birthday early, include cushions that are perfect for décor and daily use, and acrylic stand figures that will make you want to collect and display them side by side. Moreover, W Chance Campaign and "Retweet Campaign" will be available. For the W Chance Campaign, some winners, from those who purchased the online kuji, will receive "A Prize: Cushion Emilia & Subaru" or "D Prize: Tin Badge with Stand All Designs Set". For the "Retweet Campaign", 3 winners, from those who followed the official "KUJIBIKIDO" account and retweeted a certain post, will receive "B Prize: Acrylic Stand Figure All Designs Set". Please visit the designated webpage for more details. '"Re:Zero − Starting Life in Another World" Kuji Mini!' is priced at 715 JPY (incl. tax / excl. shipping fee) per play. It will be available on "KUJIBIKIDO" from noon on September1 to 11:59 p.m. on September 23. (C)TN,K,Re:ZERO2P

The new futuristic TV "ABEMA" has announced the top 5 works of the "Mid Ranking" of the new anime that started broadcast in July 2021. "Tokyo Revengers" has taken the first place in the "Cumulative Views" category while "IDOLISH7: Third BEAT!" has taken the first place in the "Most Comments" category, and both of these works are keeping their momentums from the "Initial Velocity Ranking". The "Mid Ranking" is conducted based on the anime that started broadcast in July 2021, on "ABEMA Anime Channel". The "Cumulative Views Category" is based on the views for the first broadcast and repeat broadcast of the first five episodes while the comments for the first five episodes are counted for the "Most Comments Category". Now, here are the recommended popular summer anime. The 1st place of "Cumulative Views Category" is "Tokyo Revengers", and it is a story about taking revenge on life as the hopeless freeter and main protagonist Hanagaki Takamichi went back to the peak of his life, which is 12 years ago during his middle school time, as he tries to change himself not to run away from his problems while saving his lover. It has remained on the same place from the "Initial Velocity Ranking" that only targeted episode 1. The 2nd place is "That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime Season 2", 3rd place is "The Honor at Magic High School", 4th place is "Spirit Chronicles", and 5th place is "The Detective is Already Dead". For the "Most Comments Category", the top place is taken by "IDOLISH7: Third BEAT!", and it is the 3rd season of "IDOLISH7" that shakes the idol industry with the various intertwined expectations as the "latest faction" that is moving secretly. This work has also remained its momentum from the "Initial Velocity Ranking". Some of the comments from the audiences are "This is a mental training anime", "I'm thankful that the opening is quite soothing...", "This is a God anime that can be enjoyed by watching the anime only", and "The high school students group is so cute". The 2nd place is "The Aquatope on White Sand", 3rd place is "Miss Kobayashi's Dragon Maid S", 4th place is "The Honor at Magic High School", and the 5th place is "Girlfriend, Girlfriend". All the works that are ranked in the top place of the "Mid Ranking" are currently available on "ABEMA Anime Channel". Do check it out if you have missed out on this as well as those who want to continue to pursue the popular summer 2021 anime. "ABEMA" "Mid" Ranking of July 2021 Anime ▼ Cumulative Views Category 1. "Tokyo Revengers" 2. "That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime Season 2" 3. "The Honor at Magic High School" 4. "Spirit Chronicles" 5. "The Detective is Already Dead" ▼ Most Comments Category 1. "IDOLISH7: Third BEAT!" 2. "The Aquatope on White Sand" 3. "Miss Kobayashi's Dragon Maid S" 4. "The Honor at Magic High School" 5. "Girlfriend, Girlfriend" (C) Wakui Ken, Kodansha/ Anime "Tokyo Revengers" Production Committee (C) Kawakami Taiki, Fuse, Kodansha/ TenSura Production (C) 2021 Satou Tsutomu/ Mori Yuu/ KADOKAWA/ The Honor at Magic High School Production Committee (C) Kitayama Yuri, Hobby Japan/ "Spirit Chronicles" Production Committee (C) 2021 Nigojuu, Umibozu/ KADOKAWA/ TanMoshi Production Committee (C) BNOI/ Ainana Production Committee (C) project Tingara (C) Coolkyoushinja, Futabasha/ Dragon's Life Improvement Committee (C) Hiroyuki, Kodansha/ Girlfriend, Girlfriend Production Committee

Japan's largest movie, drama, and anime review service, "Filmarks" has announced the mid-term result of the "Sumer 2021 Anime Ranking" based on the data within their service. The ranking is based on the anime that started broadcast in summer 2021 (July 1 to July 31), and the top 5 works of the mid-term result based on the "Satisfaction Value (★Evaluation)", "Number of Mark! (Number of Reviews)", and "Number of Episode Comments" have been announced. For the "Satisfaction Value", the 1st place goes to "IDOLISH7 Third BEAT!" (★ 4.46/ 53 Reviews). Some of the comments and reviews for this story are "I troubled as the story is very interesting", "I listen to the opening theme, THE POLiCY everyday", and "I am earnestly thankful as I am able to enjoy this high-quality animation every week", which explain the high satisfaction value. The 2nd place is "Love Live! Super Star!!" (★ 4.24/ 64 Reviews), 3rd place is "Miss Kobayashi's Dragon Maid S" (★ 4.22/ 249 Reviews), 4th place is "Sonny Boy" (★ 4.08/ 477 Reviews), and the 5th place is "That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime Season 2 Part 2" (★ 4.04/ 210 Reviews). For the "Number of Mark!", the 1st place is "Resident Evil: Infinite Darkness" (1,280), 2nd place is "Life Lessons with Uramichi Oniisan" (693), 3rd place is "Sonny Boy" (477), 4th place is "Monsters at Work" (263) and the 5th place is "Miss Kobayashi's Dragon Maid S" (249). For the "Number of Episode Comments", the 1st place is "Higurashi: When They Cry – SOTSU" (55), 2nd place is "Sonny Boy" (41), 3rd place is "Life Lessons with Uramichi Oniisan" (36), 4th place is "The Aquatope on White Sand" (26), and the 5th place is "The Detective is Already Dead" (21). ※This ranking is based on works with more than 50 reviews (number of Mark!) until August 17, 2021. ※The ★ evaluation in this article is as of August 17, 2021 ※The ★ evaluation is evaluated by each user after watching it (max is 5.0). ※Up to two decimal points were shown in order to rank each work based on the ★ evaluation while the service only shows up to one decimal point only. ※ Only 1 review post (Mark!) and episode comments are allowed for one user for each work. (C) BNOI/ Ainana Production Committee (C) Project Love Live! Super Star!! (C) 2021 Project Love Live! Super Star!! (C) Coolkyoushinja, Futabasha/ Dragon's Life Improvement Committee (C）Sonny Boy committee (C) Kawakami Taiki, Fuse, Kodansha/ Tensura Production Committee

The new futuristic TV ‘ABEMA’ announced the top five anime titles of “Initial Velocity Ranking” of the anime titles being broadcast in July 2021. First place for cumulative views goes to ‘Tokyo Revengers’ while ‘Idolish7 Third BEAT!’ topped the list of number of comments. This “Initial Velocity Ranking” includes the anime series that is currently broadcast on ABEMA since July 2021. It totals the numbers of views of the first episode, the follow-up webcast, and number of comments of the first episode from each anime title. ‘Tokyo Revengers’ got the first place for the number of cumulative views. This anime centers on a spoiled job hopper who travels back in time to 12 years ago when he was a middle-schooler. It depicts the protagonist challenging himself to take a ”life revenge”, hoping to become a better person. Second place goes to ‘That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime Season 2’, followed by ‘The Honor Student at Magic School’, ‘The Detective Is Already Dead’, and ‘Miss Kobayashi's Dragon Maid S’. For the number of comments, ‘IDOLiSH7 Third BEAT!’, the third season from the ‘IDOLiSH7’ series, has topped the list. This season depicts IDOLiSH7 after they mark a year since their debut and a commemorative tour has been decided. “No way, I’m going to cry and die”, “It is fans’ task to watch the episodes on time”, “Thanks to this, we can survive every week”, “That costume!”, “I’m sooooo happy to see them moving and talking again!!!!”, fans commented. Following IDOLiSH7, second place goes to ‘The Aquatope on White Sand’, third place to ‘The HOnor Student at Magic School’, fourth to ‘Miss Kobayashi's Dragon Maid S’, and fifth to ‘Girlfriend, Girlfriend’. Anime titles ranked in the “Initial Velocity Ranking” are currently distributed on ABEMA channel. This would be a great opportunity for the fans who already missed the original broadcast to check out the summer anime titles. (C)Ken Wakui, Koudansha / Anime ‘Tokyo Revengers’ Production Committee (C)BNOI / IDOLiSH7 Production Committee (C)project Tingara

From the movie "Sword Art Online Progressive: Aria of a Starless Night" (to be screened on October 30, 2021), the main trailer, which takes us to the origin of the series and reveals the relationship between Asuna and Mito, has been released. In addition, the theme song will be "Ike", sung and written by LiSA and composed by Ayase, who is also a member of YOASOBI. The movie "Sword Art Online Progressive: Aria of a Starless Night" is a film of the new "Aincrad Arc" as seen through the eyes of Asuna by the original author, Kawahara Reki. Yuki Asuna, a third-year junior high school student who has never played online games, is one day, trapped in the world of "Sword Art Online", the world's first VRMMORPG, when she accidentally wears "Nerve Gear". Without knowing the rules of the world, she sets out to conquer the steel floating castle, "Aincrad", and the lone swordsman, Kirito, appears before her as she survives the world of death. The main trailer released this time shows Yuki Asuka, a student studying hard for her entrance exam, is asked by her game-loving classmate, Tozawa Misumi, "Wanna play with me?", then she logs into the world of "SAO" as "Asuna". Then, the game master declares that "SAO" is a death game where you can't log out and risk your life, and Mito (Misumi) firmly decides that she will never let Asuna die, but...... The second half of the trailer shows the scenes where Asuna and Mito fight hard against monsters, and Kirito and Asuna encounter, with the theme song "Ike" sung and written by LiSA, who is known for her music in the "SAO" series, and composed by Ayase, who is also known as the composer of YOASOBI.

A collaboration cafe of "Sword Art Online the Movie -Progressive- Aria of a Starless Night" will be held at the SEGA Collaboration Cafe of Akihabara 4th Building for a limited period from September 25 to November 7, 2021. The entire event period will be divided into 1st, 2nd, and 3rd Round. "SEGA Collaboration Cafe | Sword Art Online the Movie -Progressive- Aria of a Starless Night" will offer original foods, dessert, and drink menus that are inspired by the work. For the 1st Round, the food menu includes "Kirito's Starburst Stream Black Cutlet Curry" and "Sinon & Leafa's Fresh Vegetable Peperoncino", and the dessert menu includes "Kirito & Asuna's Reunion 'The End Alter' Pancake Plate" and "Kirito & Alice & Eugeo's Childhood Friend Parfait". The original drink menu is also available throughout the event period. The food and dessert menu will change in 2nd and 3rd Rounds. Moreover, you will be given an "Original Coaster" per item upon your order of drink, food, or dessert. The design of the "Original Coaster" will be different respectively for 1st, 2nd, 3rd Rounds, so it would be great if you can visit for each period to collect all the designs. At the adjoining item-shop on the same floor as the cafe, multiple goods exclusive for the SEGA collaboration cafe will be on sale. The lineup consists of "Acrylic Stand", "Tin Badge", "Chibi Characters Tin Badge", "Chibi Characters Acrylic Key Chain with Stand", and "Art Panel". During the event period, Asuna's birthday card will be given from September 30, and Kirito's birthday card will be given from October 7. You will also get a lottery ticket to win the stand panel exhibited at the cafe for every 3,000 JPY (incl. tax) you spend. During the collaboration cafe, exclusive original prizes featuring "Sword Art Online the Movie -Progressive- Aria of a Starless Night" will be offered at certain SEGA stores, so the fans should definitely check it out. "Sword Art Online the Movie -Progressive- Aria of a Starless Night" will be held at the SEGA Collaboration Cafe of Akihabara 4th Building for a limited period from September 25 to November 7, 2021. Please visit the SEGA collaboration cafe official website. "Sword Art Online the Movie -Progressive- Aria of a Starless Night" ■Period: ■Venue: SEGA Collaboration Cafe Akihabara 4th Building (SEGA Akihabara 4th Building 5F) 【Schedule】 1st Round: Saturday, September 25 – Friday, October 8, 2021 2nd Round: Saturday, October 9 – Friday October 22, 2021 3rd Round: Saturday, October 23 – Sunday, November 7, 2021 *For some of the open days, the advance reservation will be required. Otherwise, the event will be operated in on a free admission system. *Please kindly note that, we will distribute numbered tickets and may set a time limit depending on the crowd. *We offer different menus and coaster designs in each round. *Detailed information will be updated on the SEGA collaboration cafe official homepage. (C)2020 Kawahara Reki / KADOKAWA / SAO-P Project (C)GENDA SEGA Entertainment Inc.

As a countdown project to the upcoming "Sword Art Online" film, ABEMA will offer marathon streaming of the TV anime series for free every week starting on September 2, 2021. "Sword Art Online"(SAO) is anime television series based on a light novel written by Kawahara Reki that received popularity with more than 26 million copies in circulation. The story is set in a fictitious world of the next-generation online-game and follows the protagonist Kirito playing a major role. Since the heroic story that game over leads to actual death and extremely powerful action-scenes received much acclaim, a total of 4 TV anime series has been broadcast after Season 1 was released in July 2012. On October 30, 2021, "Sword Art Online Progressive: Aria of a Starless Night" will be released featuring the story that depicts "Aincrad", which is the starting point of the series, from the heroine Asuna's point of view, and it is attracting a lot of attention from the fans. As a countdown project to the upcoming film, marathon streaming of the "Sword Art Online" series will be available on "ABEMA Anime 2 Channel" of "ABEMA". Starting on September 2, 2021, "Sword Art Online", "Sword Art Online II", "Sword Art Online: Alicization", and "Sword Art Online: Alicization -War of Underworld-" will be streamed on every Thursday and Friday for 8 weeks in a row. Moreover, "Aincrad", which is the stage of the upcoming film will be streamed on October 29, a day before the release. Please take a look back on the "Sword Art Online" series to prepare for the upcoming film. (C)Kawahara Reki / ASCII Media Works / SAO Project (C)2014 Kawahara Reki / Published by KADOKAWA ASCII Media Works / SAO-II Project (C)2017 Kawahara Reki / KADOKAWA ASCII Media Works / SAO-A Project

It was announced that "Sword Art Online Progressive: Aria of a Starless Night" will also be available on nationwide IMAX theatres on the release date (October 30, 2021) of the normal theatres, and the IMAX poster has been revealed. Also, the IMAX unveiling screening event with the appearance of Matsuoka Yoshitsugu and Tomatsu Haruka will be held prior to the release date. "Sword Art Online" series ("Dengeki Bunko" Publishing) is a light novel by Kawahara Reki, who won the "Grand Prize" of the 15th Dengeki Light Novel Award. The story takes place in the next generation VRMMORPY "Sword Art Online", and the story is center on the main protagonist, Kirito. The popularity is growing since the release of the first volume of the light novel in April 2009, and as of 2021, it has become a big hit that has more than 26 million copies in circulation. "Sword Art Online Progressive: Aria of a Starless Night" depicts Asuna perspective during the "Aincrad Arc" and it is written by the original creator, Kawahara Reki. It was announced that this movie will also be available in nationwide IMAX theatres. The specification of the IMAX, such as the tremendous footage on the large screen, the high-quality sound, and the immersive design, will help you to experience the magnificent game world with your whole body. Prior to the release of the movie, the IMAX unveiling screening event has been decided. After the screening, Matsuoka Yoshitsugu (voice of Kirito) and Tomatsu Haruka (voice of Asuna) will appear. "Sword Art Online Progressive: Aria of a Starless Night" will be released on October 30, 2021 (Saturday), and it will also be available on nationwide IMAX theatres at the same time. ■"Sword Art Online Progressive: Aria of a Starless Night" IMAX Unveiling Screening Event 【Date and Time】 5:00 PM, September 15 (Wednesday) (Movie is 97 minutes), Stage Greeting after Screening (Planned) 【Venue】T-Joy Prince Shinagawa 【Guests (Planned)】Matsuoka Yoshitsugu, Tomatsu Haruka ※The guests might change without prior notice 【Ticket Price】Selected Seat: 2,600 JPY; Premium Seat: 3,600 JPY 【Ticket Sales Channel】Available on "Ticket Pia" ★Advance Lottery Sale "Pre-reserve" ■ Application Period: 6:00 PM, September 1 (Wednesday) to 11:00 AM, September 10 (Friday) ■ Winner Announcement: 6:00 PM, September 10 (Friday) ■ Ticket Exchangeable date: From 10:00 AM, September 11 (Saturday) 【Staff】 Original Creator/ Original Idea: Kawahara Reki ("Dengeki Bunko" Publishing) Original Illustrator/ Original Character Design: abec Director: Kouno Ayako Assistant Director/ Monster Design: Kai Yasuyuki Character Design/ General Art Director: Toya Kento Sub Character Design: Akizuki Aya, Ishikawa Tomomi, Watanabe Keisuke Prop Design: Tojima Hisashi Art Director: Itou Yusa Background: Hirazawa Akihiro Coloring: Nakano Naomi Photography Director: Ooshima Yuki CG Director: Oda Kengo, Nakajima Hiroshi 2D Works: Miyahara Yohei, Seki Kaori Editor: Hirose Kiyoshi Music: Kajiura Yuki Sound Director: Iwanami Yoshikazu Sound Effect: Koyama Yasumasa Sound Production: Sonilude Producer: Egg Firm, Straight Edge Developer: A-1 Pictures Distributors: Aniplex Production: SAO-P Project 【Cast】 Kirito: Matsuoka Yoshitsugu Asuna: Tomatsu Haruka Mito: Minase Inori (C) 2020 Kawahara Reki/ KADOKAWA/ SAO-P Project