Sekiro: The Animated Adaptation Is Coming
After years of speculation and fan hopes, an animated adaptation of "Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice" (by FromSoftware) has finally been officially announced. Revealed at Opening Night Live during Gamescom 2025, the anime, titled "Sekiro: No Defeat," will be a hand-drawn 2D production by Studio Qzil.la, directed by Kenichi Kutsuna (known for his work on "One-Punch Man" and "Bleach"). The news has created a huge stir among fans of the game, which is celebrated for its challenging gameplay, intense narrative, and striking visual aesthetic.
The Creative Team and a Reunion of Famous Voices
The production for "Sekiro: No Defeat" boasts a high-level creative team. Takuya Satou is the screenwriter, while Takahiro Kishida handles character design. Shuta Hasunuma will compose the original soundtrack. Director Kenichi Kutsuna has formed Studio Beta to lead the project, with Shunsuke Fukudome as Assistant Director, Kaito Moki as Chief Animation Director, and Takashi Mukoda as Action Animation Director.
But the most exciting news is that the original voice cast from the game is returning to the anime. Daisuke Namikawa will voice Wolf, Miyuki Sato will play Kuro/The Divine Heir, and Kenjiro Tsuda will reprise his role as Genichiro Ashina, ensuring a direct and special connection for fans who know and love these voices.
Crunchyroll Secures Exclusive Streaming Rights
In a crucial announcement for international fans, Crunchyroll has secured exclusive streaming rights for "Sekiro: No Defeat" worldwide, excluding Japan, China, Korea, Russia, and Belarus. This decision guarantees global accessibility for the anime, allowing fans around the world to enjoy Wolf's story. Crunchyroll expressed its excitement about bringing this project to a global audience, anticipating a major impact on the anime and gaming communities. The release is set for 2026, meaning fans will have to wait another year to experience the adaptation.
The "Lonely Master and Servant" Concept and the Original Game's Success
Producer Satoshi Suzuki has emphasized the importance of capturing the core concept: "The Story of a Lonely Master and Servant." According to Suzuki, this theme, which explores the inherent loneliness in human relationships, resonates deeply with modern audiences. This creative approach complements the original game's massive commercial success. "Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice," released in 2019, has sold over 10 million copies globally, solidifying its place as an iconic title in the video game industry and building a large fanbase eager for the animated adaptation.
Production Challenges: A Visual Feat
Shunsuke Fukudome, the CEO of Qzil.la, admitted that translating the game's charm—which blends beauty and intensity—into an animated series is a significant challenge. The creative team is constantly experimenting to achieve a visual style that remains true to the game's aesthetic, hoping to exceed the expectations of both long-time fans and newcomers discovering "Sekiro" through the anime. Director Kenichi Kutsuna's statement, reaffirming his commitment to creating a "memorable" product that captures the original game's spirit, highlights the ambition and care behind this highly anticipated animated adaptation.
