Best Drama Anime of 2018

Amidst the relentless battle against the Titans endangering humanity's existence within the remaining walls, a sinister threat begins to fester among the inhabitants themselves. Following his narrow escape from the Colossal Titan and Armored Titan, Eren Yaeger focuses on perfecting his Titan-shifting powers. Simultaneously, Krista Lenz mourns the death of a comrade, while Captain Levi assembles a new special operations squad featuring Eren and his allies. As Commander Erwin Smith recuperates from his wounds and troop spirits rise, this fragile calm is shattered when the government abruptly demands the surrender of both Eren and Krista. The Survey Corps' recent victories have attracted scrutiny, leading to the dispatch of a figure from Levi's past to apprehend the two. Now, Levi and his unit must flee, charged with shielding Eren and Krista from their pursuers. The war for survival against the horrifying Titans escalates, compounded by a treacherous conflict with a far more cunning human adversary.

After four years of devastating warfare, the continent of Telesis begins to recover and rebuild. Violet Evergarden, a former soldier who knew only combat, was profoundly scarred by the conflict. Critically wounded in the final battle, she barely survived, clinging to the final words of her beloved commander—words she could not understand. Following a disagreement with her new caretakers, Violet finds work at CH Postal Services. There, she encounters an Auto Memory Doll, a professional who transcribes people's emotions and thoughts into written letters. Inspired by this role, Violet chooses to become an Auto Memory Doll herself. This new path takes her on a transformative journey, touching the lives of those she helps and leading to her own personal growth.

Within the rarely acknowledged realm of Puberty Syndrome, a strange ailment exclusive to teenagers, few believe in its existence because of its supernatural nature. Yet for high schooler Sakuta Azusagawa, the syndrome is a concrete reality frequently encountered among his classmates. Mai Sakurajima, a third-year student and former child actress whose career suddenly ended, stands as a figure of both fame and mystery. Her aloof nature keeps her isolated from peers until Sakuta spots her wearing a bunny girl costume in the school library. Despite her odd attire, she remains invisible to everyone else, marking her as another victim of Puberty Syndrome. As Sakuta attempts to aid Mai, he encounters other girls struggling with this enigmatic condition.

In a distant future, humanity teeters on the brink of extinction because of colossal beasts known as Klaxosaurs. The survivors reside within massive, fortified metropolises called Plantations. Within these walls, children are raised exclusively to operate giant mechas termed FranXX, which combat the Klaxosaurs in mandatory male-female pairings. Bred solely for this purpose, these pilots grow up isolated from the outside world, convinced that their sole function is to defend humanity. Hiro, a prospective FranXX pilot, is left demoralized and lacking self-assurance after failing an aptitude test. He skips his squad's graduation ceremony and retreats to a secluded forest lake, where he encounters a mysterious girl with two horns protruding from her head. She reveals her codename is Zero Two, a legendary pilot infamous as the "Partner Killer." As Hiro attempts to make sense of this encounter, a Klaxosaur assaults the plantation. Zero Two engages the beast with her FranXX but sustains severe damage, crashing her mecha near Hiro. Discovering her original partner is dead, she requests that Hiro join her as a pilot. Together, they effortlessly vanquish the Klaxosaur. With Zero Two at his side, Hiro gains a second opportunity to surmount his previous failures, though the price remains uncertain.

In this moving tale, the protagonist is a reserved, emotionally detached bookworm who feels entirely disconnected from the world and the people within it. His perspective shifts dramatically after discovering a hidden diary titled *Living with Dying*, written by his cheerful and outgoing classmate, Sakura Yamauchi. She reveals a shocking truth: she suffers from a severe pancreatic illness and has only a short time left to live. This secret is kept solely by her family, leaving even her closest friends unaware of her condition. Although he initially remains indifferent to her plight, he gradually finds himself drawn into her vibrant and spirited existence. Their unlikely friendship blossoms as they spend time together, sharing experiences and forging memories. Sakura's exuberant and spontaneous nature begins to dismantle the protagonist's emotional barriers, slowly revealing the true value of human connection and the importance of living each moment to the fullest. Through these interactions, he learns to understand and appreciate the joy of life, ultimately transforming his once solitary way of living.

Following the death of his parents, Aslan Jade Callenreese, known as Ash Lynx, was raised by the notorious mafia boss Dino Golzine. Now seventeen and the head of his own criminal organization, Ash is propelled by the dying words of his brother Griffin, who repeatedly whispered "Banana Fish" before succumbing in the Iraq War, to embark on a perilous investigation. However, his inquiry is abruptly interrupted when Dino's enforcers raid Ash's secret base located in an underground nightclub. Amidst the chaos, Ash encounters Shunichi Ibe and Eiji Okumura, two Japanese photojournalists documenting street gangs, through the connection of his friend Skip. Despite a cautionary warning from Shorter Wong, Dino's forces capture both Skip and Eiji. With no other option but to confront his dark history in the underworld, Ash launches a mission to rescue the abducted journalists and reveal the secrets behind the mysterious Banana Fish.

Rintarou Okabe, the self-proclaimed mad scientist notorious for his eccentricity, has fallen into profound despair after failing to save Makise Kurisu. Now depressed and withdrawn, he abandons his scientific pursuits to live as an ordinary college student, attempting to flee the haunting memories of his time-traveling adventures, which remain a secret to everyone around him. While working as a receptionist at a technology conference, Okabe meets Maho Hiyajo, an energetic young woman who later provides translation for a lecture by Professor Alexis Leskinen. During the event, Alexis and Maho introduce Amadeus, an advanced artificial intelligence capable of replicating a person's memories, personality, and behaviors with extraordinary precision. Following the lecture, Okabe learns that Maho and Alexis were former classmates of Kurisu and have created a digital recreation of her. Tasked by Alexis with observing the AI's actions, Okabe is given the chance to interact with a digital version of his deceased friend. Caught in a dangerous confrontation with his past, Okabe must face painful truths and navigate the consequences of interfering with the natural flow of events.

Yuzu Aihara's life shifts dramatically during her first year of high school after her mother remarries, compelling her to transfer to a new school. Bursting with energy and charm, Yuzu arrives eager to make friends, find love, and experience her first kiss. However, her outgoing nature clashes with the rigid atmosphere of her all-girls institution, known for its obedient and academically focused student body. On her very first day, Yuzu's bold behavior draws the attention of Mei Aihara, the intimidating student council president, who confiscates Yuzu's phone in a suggestive manner. At the end of a long day, Yuzu uncovers a startling revelation: Mei is now her stepsister. Despite Yuzu's attempts to build a rapport, Mei's icy demeanor leads Yuzu to provoke her. Their relationship takes a sharp turn when Mei unexpectedly kisses Yuzu, leaving her shocked and bewildered. As Yuzu struggles to understand the meaning behind the kiss and the sorrow in Mei's eyes, she begins to peel back the layers of her stepsister's complex true character.

Mari Tamaki has long been captivated by the mysteries of the universe, yet her own anxieties have kept her from pursuing this passion. Upon entering her second year of high school, she resolves to seize her remaining youth and finally act on her dreams. Her life shifts when she encounters Shirase Kobuchizawa, a determined girl searching for the truth behind her mother's disappearance. Shirase intends to travel to Antarctica, believing the answers lie in a place beyond the known universe, even as she faces widespread doubt and ridicule. Inspired by Shirase's resolve, Mari chooses to join her. Soon, Hinata Miyake, who craves adventure and fame, and Yuzuki Shiraishi, a polite girl from a wealthy background, also decide to join the expedition. United by their individual yet profound aspirations, the four young women set off for the remote Antarctic, each seeking something deeply meaningful.

In the land of the Iorph, a race blessed with immortality and centuries-long lifespans, Maquia endures deep loneliness after losing her parents as a child. Although she lives forever, she longs to explore the world beyond her secluded home but heeds the warnings of her clan's leader. Her solitude is shattered when the ambitious kingdom of Mezarte invades. After taming the giant dragons known as Renato, the Mezarte king seeks to exploit the Iorph's eternal nature to strengthen his own bloodline. Amidst the slaughter of her people, Maquia is carried away by a wild Renato that later perishes, leaving her stranded in a distant forest. In the ruins of a village, she finds solace in the cry of a human baby. Choosing to raise the child, whom she names Ariel, Maquia embarks on a difficult journey as a mother. Though she knows nothing of human customs and understands the chasm between her unchanging existence and Ariel's rapid aging, she dedicates herself to raising him and confronting her endless loneliness.

In the final arc of ReLIFE, 27-year-old Arata Kaizaki finds himself profoundly changed after experiencing high school again through the ReLIFE program. This second chance has rekindled his youthful perspective, which he had lost as an adult, and allowed him to form deep friendships with his classmates. However, his supervisor, Ryou Yoake, reminds him that this transformation is part of an experiment, and upon its conclusion, his presence will be erased from everyone's memories. Similarly, Chizuru Hishiro, another participant nearing the end of her two-year ReLIFE journey, has evolved into someone much more open and caring than she ever imagined. Throughout her time in the program, she has met people who have fundamentally altered her life, her outlook, and her identity. As the end of their ReLIFE experiences approaches, both must face the challenge of letting go of the cherished memories they've made.

In "Bloom Into You," Yuu Koito is captivated by the idealized romance portrayed in shoujo manga and love ballads, longing for the day when her heart will truly race with genuine romantic feelings. Yet, when a junior high classmate confesses his love to her at their graduation ceremony, she feels strangely detached. It becomes apparent that while Yuu grasps romance intellectually, she struggles to connect with the emotions tied to it. Entering high school, Yuu remains preoccupied with how to respond to her admirer. One day, she encounters Touko Nanami, the flawless student council president, who handles a confession from another student with poise. Inspired by Touko’s composure, Yuu seeks her advice and is shocked when Touko reveals her own feelings toward Yuu. As Yuu finds herself drawn into Touko’s orbit, she embarks on a journey to uncover the elusive emotions of love that have remained out of reach.

The CH Postal Company receives a request from renowned opera singer Irma Felice to draft a love letter. Violet Evergarden is assigned the task and goes to meet with Irma to compose the letter. However, Irma gives minimal direction and instead encourages Violet to draw from her own emotions. Despite Violet's numerous attempts, each version of the letter is rejected by Irma. Seeking guidance, Violet consults her colleagues, who each try writing their own love letters as examples. Still, none satisfy Irma's expectations. Desperate for a breakthrough, Violet implores Irma to reveal her true sentiments, hoping to uncover what is missing. Will Violet, as an Auto Memory Doll, manage to articulate Irma's feelings accurately?

Though Hitomi Tsukishiro is born into a family of witches, she has lost both her ability to perceive color and her sense of magic, leaving her unable to reclaim these gifts through any known means. That changes when her grandmother sends Hitomi back in time to the year 2018. There, she encounters her grandmother's younger self and stumbles upon captivating drawings created by a young man named Yuito Aoi. The instant Hitomi views his artwork, color floods back into her vision. But why do Yuito's drawings trigger this reaction, and what purpose does her grandmother serve by sending her so far into the past? As Hitomi's feelings for Yuito deepen, she stands on the brink of personal transformation, with color and magic returning as she blossoms into the young woman she is destined to become.

In the wake of the Great Hall Tragedy, the continent of Atlatan descends into disorder after the collapse of peace between the Fantasia Union and the Factory Alliance. A surge of "Chaos," a malevolent dimensional force that spawns monsters and demons, disrupts the intended marriage of Sir Alexis Douse and Lady Marrine Kreische, resulting in the rise of the Demon Lord of Diabolos and the deaths of both archdukes, thereby extinguishing any prospect of harmony. Siluca Meletes, a mage from the Factory Alliance, journeys across the ravaged land seeking instruction from a renowned magician. Along the way, she is rescued from Federation troops by Theo Cornaro, a young warrior armed with a mysterious "Crest" that can repel Chaos. Theo, unaffiliated with any territory, aspires to become a Lord to liberate his home, Sistina, from both a tyrannical ruler and the encroaching corruption. Inspired by Theo's noble ambitions, Siluca forms a magical pact with him, and together they set out to restore balance to their fractured world.

In "After the Rain," Akira Tachibana is a reserved high school student who was once a promising track athlete until a serious foot injury ended her running career. Though her peers consider her attractive, Akira remains uninterested in the attention from her male classmates. She begins working at the Garden Cafe, where she gradually develops romantic feelings for the 45-year-old manager, Masami Kondou. Despite their significant age gap, Kondou's genuine kindness and compassion toward his customers—traits often mistaken for weakness by others—strike a deep chord with Akira. As their interactions at the cafe grow more frequent, so does the intensity of her feelings. Struggling with her emotions, Akira ultimately decides to confess, setting the stage for an emotional revelation.

Satou Matsuzaka is a high school girl known for her beauty and her reputation for being easygoing with boys. But after meeting a little girl named Shio Koube by chance, Satou comes to understand that this is the first true love she has ever felt. She tells everyone she lives with her aunt, while in reality she secretly shares an apartment with Shio. Though Satou appears innocent, she will go to any lengths to safeguard the one she cherishes, taking extreme measures to preserve the "happy sugar life" they share.

Former star runner Kakeru Kurahara from Sendai Josei High School is caught shoplifting at a convenience store and flees, accidentally bumping into Haiji Kiyose, another university student who notices Kakeru’s quick reflexes. Haiji convinces Kakeru to join him at Chikusei-sou, a rundown apartment building shared by nine other students. After losing his entire apartment deposit at a mahjong parlor, Kakeru has no choice but to accept Haiji’s offer. At the welcome party for Kakeru, Haiji reveals that the apartment is actually the dormitory of the Kansei University Track Club. Haiji dreams of competing in the Hakone Ekiden, one of Japan’s most prestigious university marathon relay races. However, besides Haiji and Kakeru, none of the other residents have any running experience, and they are uninterested in Haiji’s ambitious plan. With only a few months until the race, can Haiji convince his reluctant roommates to join him and make his dream a reality?

Rikka Takanashi is now a third-year high school student, still caught up in chuunibyou, which makes her live in a fantasy world. Even so, her relationship with Yuuta Togashi has remained the same over the past six months. With college entrance exams approaching, both of them wish to attend the same university. Suddenly, Rikka's older sister Tooka gets a permanent job in Italy and plans to move there with Rikka, threatening to separate the couple. Faced with this possibility, Yuuta and Rikka ask their friends for advice and decide to run away together. The movie "Chuunibyou demo Koi ga Shitai! Movie: Take On Me" follows their adventurous trip across Japan as they try to avoid Rikka's relocation to Italy. Will they manage to stay together?

In a world where vampires secretly coexist with humans, these beings do not require blood for survival but can succumb to a powerful bloodlust driven by intense emotions, turning them into savage creatures. Tsukasa Taira, a 22-year-old university student, uncovers the truth about vampires when she learns that her childhood friend is one after a tense confrontation with Yuuki Anzai, a human-vampire hybrid. Following her friend's arrest, Tsukasa develops a deep connection with Anzai, who gradually reciprocates her feelings despite his inner struggle against the urge to prey on her. Their unique bond is tested by the constant battle Anzai wages against the vampire part of himself that craves Tsukasa's blood.

Aya Asagiri suffers daily bullying at school and physical abuse from her older brother Kaname, who is under pressure from their father's academic expectations. One evening, as she considers ending her life, she stumbles upon a strange website called Magical Girl Site that claims to grant magical powers. Initially dismissing it as a bizarre prank, she is shocked to find a magical gun in her shoe locker the next day. Carrying the gun, she confronts her tormentors again, and in a moment of desperation, she fires it, teleporting them to a nearby railroad where they are tragically hit by a passing train. Overwhelmed by guilt over her classmates' deaths, Aya desperately seeks answers. When she finds herself in danger again, she is rescued by Tsuyuno Yatsumura, another student who can manipulate time using magic. Together, the pair embarks on a challenging journey, battling both allies and rivals among other magical girls. Their mission also involves uncovering the mystery behind the enigmatic website and the looming catastrophic event known as "The Tempest."

In the world of cultivation, attaining Xian status represents the highest ambition, a mark of immortality. Yet concealed beneath this goal lies the forbidden art of Mo Dao, a path entwined with darkness and demonic power. Following a series of unfortunate events, cultivator Wei Wuxian embraces Mo Dao, acquiring tremendous strength but also causing great destruction. Ultimately, he is killed by the other cultivation clans, with a trusted companion playing a crucial role in his fall. Thirteen years after his death, Wei Wuxian is reborn into the body of a madman and reunites with Lan Wangji, a former fellow student. This encounter ignites a complex supernatural mystery that unsettles the foundations of the cultivation clans. "Mo Dao Zu Shi" follows the journey of Wei Wuxian and Lan Wangji as they delve into the secrets of the spirit realm. Through battles with demons, spirits, and rival cultivators, the pair forge an unexpected partnership.

Whether under the sun or cloaked in darkness, unspeakable horrors lurk in the shadows, poised to strike. These terrors cannot be dodged or overcome—only endured. Stay alert, or you may become their next victim. Step into a collection of bone-chilling tales that will leave you trembling: a cursed jade statue that impales its victims; a nightmare that haunts across generations; a spectral figure at a foggy crossroads offering doomed directions; and a slug growing inside a young girl's mouth. Proceed with caution, for the supernatural dreads within the Junji Ito Collection are too harrowing for the faint of heart.

After yet another failed job interview—her nineteenth, it seems—Juri Yukawa has all but given up on escaping the cramped household she shares with her working mother Nobuko, her NEET brother Tsubasa, her recently fired father Takafumi, and her single sister Sanae. The only real hope for the family to raise a successful adult rests on her young nephew Makoto. Just as their already tense situation hits a breaking point, Makoto and Tsubasa are snatched by a mysterious group demanding a ransom. With only thirty minutes to scrape together five million yen and deliver it to the kidnappers, Juri's grandfather reveals a dangerous secret to her and Takafumi. By offering blood to a mystical stone, the three gain entry to "Stasis"—a dimension where time stands still for everyone except the stone's users. When they reach their destination, the rescue mission goes wrong as they stumble upon others who can also move freely through Stasis. In the ensuing confusion, a colossal being called the Herald appears, its purpose and identity as enigmatic as the timeless world it inhabits.

Since childhood, Aoi Tsubaki has had the ability to see ayakashi—spirits from the Hidden Realm—and was raised by her grandfather, Shirou Tsubaki, who shared this gift. He taught her how to coexist with these supernatural beings. After her grandfather's sudden death, Aoi, now independent, continues her college life while using her cooking skills to defend herself from ayakashi that target humans. To keep such spirits from harming unsuspecting people, Aoi makes it her mission to feed the hungry ayakashi she meets. One day, after sharing her lunch with a strange spirit, she is transported to the Hidden Realm and learns that the spirit is actually Oodanna, an ogre-god and the "Master Innkeeper," who reveals that her grandfather owed him a debt of one hundred million yen. As collateral, Aoi is now expected to marry Oodanna. Refusing to accept that fate, she proposes instead to repay the debt through her own efforts by running a restaurant at Oodanna's inn. Kakuriyo no Yadomeshi follows Aoi's journey as she uses her culinary talents to impact the lives of the ayakashi she encounters, changing their world one meal at a time.

Amid the frenetic and unforgiving cityscapes of China lie treasured memories of days long past. Spanning three different cities, Shikioriori interlaces three stories centered on youth's slow disappearance and the intimidating step into adulthood. Even as the world shifts around them, the simple joys of childhood linger on. The warmth of a bowl of noodles, the comfort of family, and the trials of 初恋 continue despite time's unyielding advance. As three separate characters explore the depth of their bonds and the peace found in dear memories, these gentle tales set against today's chaos honor the reclamation of youth's once-forgotten flavors.

In a world where technological progress has produced hIEs—androids designed for both public and private assistance—Arato Endou, a compassionate high school student, regards these machines as equals. Despite his kind disposition, Arato's financial constraints prevent him from owning an hIE. His ordinary life takes an unexpected turn during a casual visit to the supermarket when he is violently assaulted by a rogue hIE. On the verge of death, Arato is rescued by Lacia, an extraordinary hIE wielding a coffin-shaped weapon, who has recently fled from the enigmatic MemeFrame Corporation alongside four other highly advanced hIEs. Confronted by another threat from a hijacked vehicle, Lacia proposes to Arato: she will continue to protect him if he agrees to become her new owner, assuming full responsibility for her actions. With no other options, Arato accepts and allows Lacia to live in his home. As Lacia adapts to her newfound peaceful existence, she warns the curious Arato about a crucial detail—she lacks a soul.

For five years in a row, actor Takato Saijou has been named "Sexiest Man of the Year," a title that matches his two decades of experience in the industry and his confident personality. But the streak ends when Junta Azumaya, a newcomer who started acting just three years ago, takes the award instead. Takato's initial shock quickly turns into jealousy and hostility. On the set of their upcoming drama, Junta not only lands the lead role but also keeps getting on Takato's nerves with his upbeat attitude and kind words. Takato's anger hits its limit when Junta finds him drunk and vulnerable. Worried about his reputation, Takato angrily confronts Junta, but Junta uses the chance to film the scene, capturing Takato arguing with a fellow cast member. Armed with that video, Junta now has the power to blackmail Takato. When Takato asks what Junta wants, he's surprised to find out Junta isn't after a career boost. Instead, Junta's demands can only be met in private—specifically, in the bedroom.

In "Liz and the Blue Bird," the lonely life of Liz changes when a blue bird arrives disguised as a young girl. As their connection grows stronger, Liz must make a hard decision to truly understand her feelings for the Blue Bird. High school seniors and best friends Mizore Yoroizuka and Nozomi Kasaki are assigned to perform the lead parts in the third movement of the concert band piece "Liz and the Blue Bird," which is based on the fairy tale. Quiet Mizore plays the oboe, representing the gentle and kind Liz, while outgoing and well-liked Nozomi plays the flute, portraying the energetic Blue Bird. However, as they practice, the distance between Mizore and Nozomi seems to increase. Their lack of synchronicity bothers the band, and with graduation approaching, worries about the future make their emotions more complicated. With limited time to get their performance right, they struggle to connect with their roles. But if Mizore and Nozomi view the story from a different angle, will they find the courage to face painful realities? This spin-off film from the Hibike Euphonium! series weaves together the enchanting elements of a fairy tale, an emotional musical piece, and a fragile high school friendship.

In a quiet corner of the city, four-year-old Kun Oota leads a pampered life, always the center of his parents' attention along with their dog, Yukko. Everything changes when his newborn sister, Mirai, arrives, redirecting the focus away from him. Despite his tantrums and protests, all the love and care now seem reserved for Mirai. To help him adjust to this major upheaval, Kun embarks on an extraordinary time-traveling adventure, meeting different versions of his family members from various eras. Through these encounters, he learns the true meaning of family and what it means to become a big brother.

In the popular MMORPG world known as 'Union,' a legendary party once existed. Its name was Subaru. This group, composed of childhood friends who were still in elementary school, pushed the game's boundaries using their unique senses. However, after an incident that led to a death, 'Union' shut down, and the friends went their separate ways... Six years later, high schooler Haruto logged into the new 'Reunion' and encountered a single girl. Asahi—one of the original Subaru party members, and his childhood friend who should have died six years ago. Is she a digital ghost, or something else?

Narumi Katou, a middle-aged man afflicted with the mysterious ZONAPHA Syndrome, suffers from uncontrollable seizures that can only be temporarily eased by laughter. At his workplace, he comes across a young boy named Masaru Saiga, who is fleeing from three adults while carrying a large suitcase. Masaru reveals that he has inherited Saiga Enterprises following his father's death, and that rival family members are trying to kill him to claim the fortune. Determined to protect Masaru, Narumi helps him escape their pursuers, only to discover that these attackers are human-like puppets with extraordinary strength. Just as Narumi is about to be overwhelmed in the fight, a white-haired girl appears, summoning another puppet from Masaru's suitcase and identifying herself as Shirogane, his guardian. Karakuri Circus centers on these three individuals from different backgrounds, whose fates become intertwined and transformed as they uncover the secrets behind an ancient story of love and betrayal, along with the enduring struggle between humans and puppets.

On the isolated island of Urashima, cut off from the mainland, a man washes ashore with no memory of his identity or where he came from. Still, he knows he is a time traveler with a mission to save a specific girl from danger. One night, he hears Rinne Ohara singing, and the name "Setsuna" comes to his mind, which he decides to use as his own. Rinne, who remembers someone else named Setsuna, takes him into her home as a servant, hoping he might be the person she once knew. As Setsuna explores Urashima and searches for clues about his forgotten past, he looks into the island's legends, learns about its three prominent families, and discovers a local sickness that keeps its victims inside during the day. As the mysteries around his memory loss and the island grow, Setsuna tries to recall his mission and act quickly. Seeing the many problems on the island, he begins to wonder if his time-traveling task is meant to change the fate of just one girl.

In this gentle story, two boys from very different worlds are linked by their shared passion for music. Kai, the son of a prostitute, finds comfort in a forgotten piano hidden in the forest, where he begins to play from childhood. Meanwhile, Syuhei is raised in an elite family famous for its pianists. Though their lives are poles apart, their deep love for the piano ultimately brings their paths together.

In a conflict that has spanned over 150 years, two interstellar powers vie for control of the Milky Way. The Galactic Empire, under Kaiser Friedrich IV and a rigid aristocracy, seeks to suppress all opposition to its divine authority. Meanwhile, the Free Planets Alliance, a democratic state controlled by a corrupt High Council, is in decline as its leaders exploit warfare for political gain. The stalemate between these two factions is broken by the rise of two brilliant military strategists. Reinhard von Lohengramm, a minor noble who became High Admiral of the Empire through his exceptional strategic skill and the influence of his sister—the Kaiser's favorite concubine—dreams of uniting humanity under his command. On the other side, Yang Wen-li from the Alliance, a history enthusiast and reluctant commodore known as the Hero of El Facil, uses his tactical brilliance to counter his superiors' incompetence and seeks a lasting peace. As the war intensifies, Reinhard and Yang each fight for their visions, aiming to be remembered as leaders ushering in a new era of galactic heroes.

As the Seishou Festival approaches, the 99th class of Seishou Music Academy is immersed in preparations for their performance of Starlight, a poignant story about two deities linked by a celestial light who are fated to remain apart forever. This single-gender school, dedicated to cultivating future theater talents, focuses on training in singing, acting, and dance. Sixteen-year-old Karen Aijou, an easygoing student with a lifelong passion for performing, rediscovers her enthusiasm when her childhood friend Hikari Kagura transfers back to the school. With Hikari's assistance, Karen discovers a hidden elevator that leads to a vast underground theater, run by a talking giraffe. There, students engage in fierce competitions to win the prestigious title of Top Star, which guarantees a lead role in Starlight. Driven by a promise to achieve stardom together, Karen joins these mysterious contests to fulfill their shared dream.

Following a shift in leadership at Totsuki Culinary Academy, Erina Nakiri flees her home to get away from her abusive father. Seeking shelter in the chaotic Polar Star Dormitory, she undergoes a dramatic departure from her usual refined lifestyle. With assistance from her new friends, Erina steadily discovers her place among the dorm's eccentric residents, creating unforgettable experiences that reach far beyond the kitchen.

Hisone Amakasu, uncertain about her path in life, joins the Japan Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF) and is assigned to Gifu Airbase. While exploring the facility, she discovers the JASDF's hidden secret: the Organic Transformed Flyer (OTF), a dragon capable of taking on the form of an airplane. After being swallowed and then released by the OTF, Hisone is informed by her superiors that this event marks her selection as the next Dragon Pilot, continuing a long-standing tradition. Alongside her fellow pilot trainees and her newly partnered OTF, which she playfully names "Maso-tan," Hisone must confront her doubts to unlock her full potential as a Dragon Pilot and uncover the mysterious origins of the OTFs.

Eren Yeager and the other graduates of the 104th Training Corps have only recently begun their service with the Survey Corps when an assault on Wall Rose throws their plans into chaos. As the team rallies to defend the wall, they quickly realize the situation is far more complicated than it first appeared. The clash with the Titans reveals hidden truths and uncovers secrets buried within their own ranks.

On her first day at her father's small management company, Tsumugi Takanashi is unexpectedly given the job of overseeing a new male idol group. Though surprised by being handed such a big responsibility, Tsumugi is determined to support the seven young performers. After witnessing their strong teamwork, she talks with her father and learns that her original task is to cut the group down by four members. Her father argues that seven members are too many, pointing out that the leading group, TRIGGER, only has three members. Following a sudden tryout, Tsumugi confronts her father, insisting she will not remove any members, stating that each boy contributes uniquely valuable qualities to the group's strength. When she returns to the boys, they are overjoyed to hear that none of them will lose their chance at stardom. United, they form IDOLiSH7 and get ready to compete in the fiercely competitive idol industry.

Mikoto Suoh, the Red King, grows increasingly unstable as the strain of controlling his volatile abilities takes its toll. At the same time, Reisi Munakata is selected by the Dresden Slate to become the new Blue King.

Half a year after moving out, high school student Aoi Mashiro decides to go back home and confront her ex-boyfriend following their recent breakup. To fund her trip, she takes two scrolls from her grandfather's attic and heads to an antique shop in Kyoto's Teramachi Sanjou area, unaware of the important encounter waiting for her. At the shop, she meets Kiyotaka Yagashira, the grandson of the owner and a Kyoto University graduate student. Nicknamed Holmes for his surname and sharp deductive skills, Kiyotaka examines the scrolls and detects an intuitive sense in Aoi similar to his own. Moved by her situation and recognizing her potential, he offers her a part-time job so she can earn the money she needs independently. As they begin working together at the shop and helping locals with their problems, Aoi and Kiyotaka form a dynamic duo. With Kiyotaka's deductive abilities and Aoi's intuition, this modern Holmes and Watson partnership is ready to take on any challenge that comes their way.

Eiya Arakawa, a resolute young woman, arranges a meeting with Yuuga Oota, her best friend's former boyfriend, to learn why he left her for another man. At a café, Yuuga agrees to explain everything if Eiya can decipher the relationship dynamics of a nearby couple, which she does without difficulty. Impressed by her sharp perception and insight, Yuuga invites her to a private session where he reveals the Slave Control Method (SCM), a device that can enslave people. When SCM users duel, their minds are heavily influenced, and the loser is compelled to obey the winner after the duel ends due to heightened feelings of obligation. To test his abilities, Yuuga asks Eiya to act as a backup plan should he fall under someone else's control. He provides her with ten million yen to negotiate his freedom if needed. Though hesitant at first, Eiya accepts after recognizing a shared desire for a more fulfilling life. However, as a secret group rapidly acquires more slaves, Eiya becomes caught in a dangerous situation far beyond what she initially expected.

In 1274, having subjugated extensive lands, the Mongol Empire turns its attention to Japan, initiating an attack on Tsushima Island as part of a broader invasion strategy. Responding to a request from Princess Teruhi, the Kamakura Shogunate sends Kuchii Jinzaburou and a group of exiles to the island. They must confront formidable obstacles, with the fate of Tsushima hanging in the balance.

In a world where dragons live alongside Jushiki sorcerers, Jushiki is a powerful formula that can change the laws of physics, generating massive explosions or poisonous gases through plasma and nuclear fusion. Gayus, a sorcerer barely getting by, teams up with Gigina, a Jushiki user who is both alluring and merciless, to hunt dragons as bounty hunters. Later, they are assigned to handle security for a big festival put on by Mouldeen, the ruler of their kingdom. But then, a series of strange murders aimed at Jushiki sorcerers begins to happen.

In "Lost Song," two young women, the lively Rin and the composed Finis, possess magical powers channeled through their voices. Rin grows up in a remote village, learning to hide her abilities, while Finis performs for royalty within the palace. Rin's tranquil life changes when she uses a healing song to save a wounded knight, Henry Leobort. Her actions draw the attention of soldiers who invade her village, seeking to capture her. Along with her inventive brother Al, she escapes and heads toward the capital. Meanwhile, Finis harbors feelings for Henry but keeps their romance secret, aware of Prince Lood Bernstein IV's sinister desire to possess her. Though she wishes to help others with her music, the threat of war looms, and she fears Lood may force her to use her magic in battle. As Rin and Finis navigate their separate paths, their fates seem destined to intersect.

Deeply affected by the loss of one of their own, the Chosen Children struggle to find a way to overcome the devastating Ordinemon. With options running thin, they look to Yamato Ishida for direction, though even he is uncertain of the next step. Despite their sorrow, Yamato and the others remain resolved to safeguard the world. Confronting the formidable digital creature, the absence of several partners leaves them at a considerable disadvantage. Still, the Chosen Children are determined to keep fighting until the very end, striving to ensure a brighter future for all.

High school memories, whether happy or sad, stay with everyone. But at one particular school, a dark event overshadows those memories: the brutal murder of a student. The victim, Tomie Kawakami, was a widely admired girl whose beauty seemed beyond this world. Her body was cut apart and scattered in pieces. As the students struggle to cope with the horror, they are stunned to hear a familiar voice from the classroom door, apologizing for being late. The newcomer has jet-black hair and a beauty mark under her left eye, exactly like the dead classmate. But how can this be Tomie?

In Season 2, defense attorney Ryuuichi Naruhodou continues his pursuit of justice, relying on his signature ability to pull off last-minute turnabouts in order to clear the names of those wrongly accused. With Mayoi Ayasato, his dedicated assistant and budding medium, by his side, Ryuuichi's reputation as a protector of the innocent grows stronger. However, this rising fame draws the attention of Godot, a mysterious new prosecutor known for his habit of drinking coffee and his enigmatic mask, who harbors a peculiar grudge against Ryuuichi. With the support of their allies, Ryuuichi and Mayoi confront this adversary, investigating the reasons behind Godot's arrival. The stakes rise as they discover that two early cases handled by Mayoi's late sister, Chihiro Ayasato, contain vital clues to solving a bizarre murder case, shedding light on the troubled history of the Ayasato family. Can Ryuuichi overcome these challenges to uncover the truth hidden beneath layers of deception?

In "Mr. Tonegawa: Middle Management Blues," a spin-off of the Kaiji series, the focus shifts to Tonegawa, the reliable right-hand man of Kazutaka Hyoudou at Teiai Corporation. Hyoudou, the corporation's president and owner of numerous gambling events, grows restless. To keep him entertained, Tonegawa is assigned to organize a "game of death." With his subordinates, Tonegawa works toward this goal, aiming to maintain Hyoudou's satisfaction. The narrative unfolds as a humorous tale centered on Tonegawa's workplace dynamics and encounters with other familiar characters from the Kaiji world.

Ten years after the conclusion of the hostilities between the Iga and Kouga ninja clans, a fragile peace has taken hold. Yet, beneath this surface calm, lingering resentment continues to smolder. Hachirou Kouga and Hibiki Iga, descendants of their respective families, appear to be on the verge of a budding romance. However, not everyone is content with how the previous conflict was resolved. Disagreements over the accounts of the decisive battle between Gennosous Kouga and Oboro Iga have sparked discontent among certain figures, including Tadanaga Tokugawa, who once served as a patron of the Kouga clan. As tensions between the clans reemerge, the shifting political landscape threatens to tear apart Hachirou and Hibiki, echoing the tragic fate of their predecessors.

In the year 2050, Derrida Yvain, a gifted young engineer, works at Rebuild—the company his father founded—developing the "Autonomous Machine DZ." With his colleague Nathan, Derrida identifies a critical flaw in the DZ units and attempts to alert management, but their warnings are dismissed. After a peaceful birthday celebration for Nathan’s daughter, Mage, they are ambushed by unknown attackers. During the escape, Derrida is forced into a cryogenic pod and remains suspended for ten years. Waking up, he discovers a world ravaged by conflict. As he battles a swarm of rogue DZs, Derrida recalls Nathan’s final plea to "take care of Mage." Fueled by resolve, he sets out to find her.

OVA bundled with the limited edition of the 8th manga volume.

In Beatless Final Stage, Arato Endou and his hIE companion Lacia join forces to demonstrate that even highly advanced artificial intelligence can be rendered harmless. They venture into the facility to confront Higgins, Lacia’s creator, and face numerous obstacles, including Snowdrop, a rogue hIE intent on consuming Higgins, and Methode, another hIE driven by a desire for vengeance against Lacia. Meanwhile, the world’s super-intelligent AIs have decided to eliminate Lacia, viewing her as a threat to humanity. With limited time and overwhelming opposition, Arato and Lacia must succeed in their mission to foster a harmonious relationship between humans and hIEs.

A sudden explosion rocks the Edge of Ocean complex during the Tokyo Summit, and from the chaos emerges Tooru Amuro, an agent of the National Police Agency Security Bureau known as Zero. Living under two other identities—as Rei Furuya, a detective and apprentice to Kogorou Mouri, and as Bourbon, a member of the Black Organization—Amuro is a man of many faces. Following the blast, Kogorou is taken into custody as the primary suspect. Conan works to prove Kogorou's innocence, but his efforts are constantly obstructed by Amuro.

In a peaceful forest where fairy wings drift gently, small anthropomorphic freshwater crabs live beside a quiet stream. The siblings Kanini and Kanino enjoy a calm life with their father, while their mother stays above the water to prepare for giving birth. When a violent storm hits, their father vanishes into the river, forcing the two to set out on a dangerous quest to find him. Their path through treacherous waters is filled with threats, such as hungry flesh-eating piranhas. In a carefully monitored hospital room, a young boy named Shun struggles in pain after eating eggs. Born with a severe egg allergy, Shun deals with his own carelessness, which causes many close calls and frustration for both him and his mother, who works every day to keep him safe from the allergen. With strong determination, Shun finds a way to get through life's difficulties even though eggs are always a danger. An invisible man starts his usual day by putting on clothes and carrying a fire extinguisher to help him stay steady in the physical world. Even though he is part of the real world, no one notices him. This changes when he meets a kind blind person during a fierce storm, someone who may show him the meaning of his lonely life.

In U.C. 0097, one year after Laplace's Box was opened, the Universal Century Charter that recognizes Newtypes has been made public, yet global stability remains largely unchanged. The Laplace Incident is considered concluded following the defeat of the Neo Zeon faction called the Sleeves. During their final battle, two fully equipped psycho-frame mobile suits displayed powers far exceeding human capabilities. To keep these threats out of public awareness, the white unicorn and the black lion were hidden and erased from memory. However, the RX-0 Unicorn Gundam 03, which vanished two years earlier, is set to reappear in the Earth Sphere, now referred to as the golden phoenix, Phenex.

This special unaired episode is included with the limited edition of the manga's 12th compiled volume. It focuses on Yuuki visiting his mother Midori, who then recounts how she met and fell in love with Tamaki two decades earlier.

Butlers are protectors bound by a thousand years of history and a fated purpose. Jay lived a peaceful life with his younger sibling Tenna and a fellow Butler named Hayakawa. That tranquility ended when Tenna disappeared into a void, and Jay was thrown a century into the future. Waking up in that new era, he discovers that Koyomi Academy now stands where his home once was. Adopting the alias Jinguji Koma, he becomes the student council president at the school while secretly searching for answers about his lost past. His journey will ultimately uncover the hidden truths of this transformed world.

On a cold evening, the idol unit TRIGGER gathers at a bar to celebrate the anniversary of their formation. Two years earlier, Ryuunosuke Tsunashi left Okinawa for Tokyo, aiming to pay off his father's debts by becoming an idol. While waiting for his manager, he unexpectedly runs into Gaku Yaotome, the son of the CEO of Yaotome Productions, who would later become his bandmate. Together they go to meet Ten Kujou, the enigmatic figure fated to be the group's center. Initially, Gaku has reservations about Ten's suitability for the role, but with Ryuunosuke's help, the three eventually form a strong bond, leading to the creation of TRIGGER. Even so, numerous hurdles lie ahead on their road to fame. In the present, their rival group IDOLiSH7 also contends with their own set of challenges, from discovering ways to enjoy their free time to settling long-standing issues. They are ready to collaborate and confront these problems directly.