The enthralling dark fantasy series, Tougen Anki, has steadily captured the attention of supernatural battle manga enthusiasts, drawing intriguing parallels to Jujutsu Kaisen. With the conclusion of the epic conflict between Jujutsu Sorcerers and Curses, it’s an opportune moment to delve into a more ancient and timeless battle: that of the Oni (demons) against Momotaro (humans).
In an official announcement via the @tougenanki_anm account on X, it has been confirmed that the beloved manga will be adapted into an anime set to premiere in July 2025. This adaptation is headed by director Ato Nonaka and is being produced by the acclaimed Studio Hibari. Furthermore, the anime promises an impressive voice cast, featuring talents such as Naito Mudano, known for his role as Levi Ackerman in Attack on Titan; Manaka Iwami, who voiced Touko Kanbayashi in Zom 100: Bucket List of the Dead; and Kazuki Ura, who appeared in Tom Clancy’s Ghost Recon Breakpoint.
Why Jujutsu Kaisen Fans Will Love Tougen Anki
A Different Story With an Undeniable Vibe
The anime adaptation of Yura Urushibara’s Tougen Anki centers around Shiki Ichinose, a seemingly typical high schooler whose life tragically shifts when he becomes the target of a violent attack. This new turn of events leads Shiki on a quest for answers, ultimately revealing that he is not just any student but an Oni, with his assailant being a Momotaro. Grappling with the harsh reality of his altered destiny, Shiki vows vengeance against the Momotaro responsible for his stepfather’s death, and joins the Oni community to harness his latent powers — drawing intriguing parallels to the dynamics within the Jujutsu Sorcery community.
Reimagining an Ancient Tale for Today’s Audiences
A Fresh Take on a Classic Narrative
While Tougen Anki resonates with many themes, motifs, character archetypes, and thrilling action sequences reminiscent of Jujutsu Kaisen, it maintains a unique storyline that is equally captivating. One standout feature of Tougen Anki is its creative interplay with a famous Japanese folklore tale. The narrative begins with an elderly couple who discover a giant peach in the river, inside of which they find a baby boy. Believing this miraculous child to be a gift from the gods, they name him Momotaro and raise him with love.
Momotaro becomes the model son, aiding his adoptive parents in every aspect of life. Yet, when Oni begin to wreak havoc in the land, Momotaro departs on a mission to rid the world of these threats before they can harm his family. Though his quest is fraught with obstacles, he perseveres with the support of newfound allies, ultimately returning victorious.
What makes Tougen Anki truly special is its subversion of the typical ‘happily ever after’ narrative. The story unfolds to reveal that Momotaro and his companions did not completely eradicate the Oni, allowing some to masquerade within human society for centuries. Moreover, while the original hero embodies virtue and bravery, his descendants reveal more cunning and morally ambiguous traits, enriching the plot with complexity.
This innovative premise promises a riveting and unpredictable journey for fans awaiting the anime adaptation. Tougen Anki is not only an exciting new series but also offers enough depth for Jujutsu Kaisen enthusiasts to appreciate its darker fantasy and supernatural elements.
Tougen Anki is set for its highly anticipated premiere in July 2025.
Source: @tougenanki_anm
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