Winter 2016 Anime Season Preview

Welcome to the Winter 2016 season preview, here to help you decide what to watch this season and with so many series coming out each season it can be a daunting task. To help you even further we will be giving links to any simulcast that a series may have and will keep them updated throughout the season. You can also find our writers thoughts on select series that they are interested in and their expectation level.

This is by no means a complete list of every series airing this season, shows geared towards young children have been omitted as have OVAs and Movies. We have deemed it necessary for TV shorts to have their own season preview which will be available soon.

Update: Links to FUNimation series have been added but be aware that they currently do not work for UK viewers. With the recent news of FUNimation opening its streaming doors to the UK we would hope that these may become available very soon.

ActiveRaidActive Raid: Kidou Kyoushuushitsu Dai Hakkei (Active Raid: Special Public Security Fifth Division Third Mobile Assault Eighth Unit)
Air Date: Jan 7, 2016
Studio: Production IMS
Episodes: 12
Genre: Mecha, Police, Sci-Fi
Simulcast: Crunchyroll
Synopsis: An original anime set in a part of Tokyo that has descended into a quagmire, the story follows Unit 8 of the 5th Special Public Security Section’s 3rd Mobile Assault Division — popularly called “The Eighth” — who don powered armor “Willware” exoskeletons to counter the rise in crime. Assistant inspector Asami Kazari is assigned to The Eighth with the task of assessing the unit’s status and reporting it to her superiors. But her true goal is to rehabilitate this sloppy, haphazard, justice-less group. (Source: ANN)

Our Thoughts: My expectations for this series continue to rise as we inch closer to its air date. Handling the script and series composition is Naruhisa Arakawa who has worked extensively on Tokusatsu such as Kamen Rider and Super Sentai, as well as anime, of which I am a massive fan. It gets even better as the chief director is Gorō Taniguchi (Code Geass) another favourite of mine. With these two on board I’m expecting some great things. ~ Nick

With this being the first anime of the season showing on Crunchyroll, I’ll at least be giving the first episode a try, and deciding whether to stick with it or not. ~ Jordan

AjinAjin
Air Date: Jan 16, 2016
Studio: Polygon Pictures
Episodes: 13
Genre: Horror, Mystery, Seinen, Supernatural
Simulcast: Netflix?
Synopsis: For high schooler Kei—and for at least forty-six others—immortality comes as the nastiest surprise ever.
Sadly for Kei, such a feat doesn’t make him a superhero. In the eyes of both the general public and governments, he’s a rare specimen who needs to be hunted down and handed over to scientists to be experimented on for life—a demi-human who must die a thousand deaths for the benefit of humanity. (Source: Vertical)

Our Thoughts: I’ve been interested in the manga of Ajin for some time but never actually got around to reading it so with an anime adaptation coming this season it’s high time I bite the bullet. I’m actually in two minds as to whether I read the manga first or brave this adaptation. In recent years adaptations of horror titles haven’t turned out that well for fans of their respective manga’s. In Ajin‘s defence though are Polygon Pictures who did a fantastic job with Knights of Sidonia so I’m hopeful they can replicate that success. ~ Nick

After last season’s A Corpse is Buried Under Sakurako’s Feet and The Perfect Insider, I find myself desperate for more mystery anime, so I look forward to giving this one a try. ~ Jordan

AkagamiAkagami no Shirayuki-hime 2nd Season (Snow White with the Red Hair)
Air Date: Jan 12, 2016
Studio: Bones
Episodes:
Genre: Drama, Fantasy, Romance, Shoujo
Simulcast: FUNimation, Viewster
Synopsis: In the kingdom of Tanbarun lives Shirayuki, an independent and strong-willed young woman. Her resourceful intelligence has led her become a skilled pharmacist, but her most defining trait is her shock of beautiful apple-red hair. Her dazzling mane gets her noticed by the prince of the kingdom, but instead of romancing her, he demands she be his concubine. Shirayuki refuses, chops off her lovely locks, and runs away to the neighboring kingdom of Clarines. There, she befriends a young man named Zen, who, SURPRISE, is also a prince, although with a much better temperament than the previous one. Watch as Shirayuki finds her place in the new kingdom, and in Zen’s heart. (Source: FUNimation)

AssClassAnsatsu Kyoushitsu (TV) 2nd Season (Assassination Classroom)
Air Date: Jan 8, 2016
Studio: Lerche
Episodes:
Genre: Action, Comedy, School, Shounen
Simulcast: Animax UK, FUNimation
Synopsis: The students of class 3-E have a mission: kill their teacher before graduation. He has already destroyed the moon, and has promised to destroy the Earth if he cannot be killed within a year. But how can this class of misfits kill a tentacle monster, capable of reaching Mach 20 speed, who may be the best teacher any of them have ever had? (Source: AniList)

Our Thoughts: Assassination Classroom returns and boy am I excited, having been a fan of the series since the manga first started I can’t wait to see more! ~ Nick

The wait for this has been torture, with All The Anime having picked up season one for UK release, hopefully season two actually sees a UK simulcast. ~ Jordan

AonoKanataAo no Kanata no Four Rhythm (Four Rhythm Across the Blue)
Air Date: Jan 12, 2016
Studio: Gonzo
Episodes:
Genre: Romance, School, Sci-Fi
Simulcast: Crunchyroll
Synopsis: The story is set on an archipelago of four islands far south of Japan or even the South Seas. It is all but a different world from modern Japan. From the discovery of anti-gravitons came the dream invention of anti-graviton shoes that let people fly the skies. They introduce people to a new realm by enabling flight with just one’s own body strength, without feathers or engines. This led to the rise of the sport of “Flying Circus”.

The protagonist who once hoped for a future in this sport suffered a setback due to an overwhelming defeat, and withdrew from the sport for this and some other reason. However, he met the transfer student Asuka Kurashina, and in teaching her to fly the skies, the old passion returned. He takes part in the Flying Circus again. (Source: ANN)

Our Thoughts: This has the two genres that effectively guarantee I’ll be watching it, school and romance; this combination of genres always results in anime that I find heartwarming. ~ Jordan

BokuDakeBoku dake ga Inai Machi (ERASED)
Air Date: Jan 8, 2016
Studio: A-1 Pictures
Episodes:
Genre: Psychological, Seinen, Supernatural
Simulcast: Crunchyroll, Daisuki, FUNimation
Synopsis: Struggling manga author Satoru Fujinuma is beset by his fear to express himself. However, he has a supernatural ability of being forced to prevent deaths and catastrophes by being sent back in time before the incident occurred, repeating time until the accident is prevented. One day, he gets involved in an accident that has him framed as a murderer. Desperate to save the victim, he sends himself back in time only to find himself as a grade-schooler one month before fellow classmate Kayo Hinazuki went missing. Satoru now embarks on a new quest: to save Kayo and solve the mystery behind her disappearance. (Source: MAL News)

Our Thoughts: This is another manga that I have been meaning to read for some time but again haven’t gotten around to. The premise while it sounds right up my alley doesn’t throw up a few concerns for this adaptation. A-1 Pictures generally put out some solid adaptations but there have been a few less than stellar ones. Director Itou Tomohiko (Gin no Saji, Sword Art Online) and screenwriter Kishimoto Taku (Gin no Saji, Haikyuu!!) have put me at ease given their previous works so fingers crossed. ~ Nick

With A-1 Pictures producing, Itou Tomohiko directing, and Kishimoto Taku as screenwriter, I look forward to seeing what this anime has to offer. The premise is certainly of interest, and the MC’s ability should make for a good series. ~ Jordan

Bubuki BurankiBubuki Buranki
Air Date: Jan 9, 2016
Studio: SANZIGEN
Episodes:
Genre: Action, Sci-Fi
Simulcast: Crunchyroll
Synopsis: When Azuma Ikki returns to Japan after 10 years, he gets assaulted by a group of armed men and becomes their prisoner. Kogane Asabuki, a childhood friend, saves him with a weapon on her right hand known as Bubuki; a weapon with its own mind. Azuma Ikki, who is a Bubuki user himself, learns about the existence of Bubuki and goes on a journey alongside the companions he has found, in an attempt to find and revive Oumai, a Buranki (titan) who sleeps underground. (Source: MAL)

Dagashi KashiDagashi Kashi
Air Date: Jan 8, 2016
Studio: Feel
Episodes:
Genre: Comedy, Shounen
Simulcast: Animax UK, Daisuki, FUNimation
Synopsis: Shikada Kokonotsu’s father owns a rural sweets shop, and his plan is for Kokonotsu to take it over one day. However, Kokonotsu wants to be a manga author instead! One day in summer, the cute but weird girl Shidare Hotaru, from the famous sweets company, comes to pay a visit. Apparently, Kokonotsu’s father is famous and she wants him to join her family’s company. However, he will only agree if she can convince Kokonotsu to take over the family business! (Source: MangaHelpers)

Our Thoughts: Dagashi Kashi isn’t a series that’s have on my expectations list but there’s something about the artwork and premise that has me intrigued. If nothing else I think this series will be a nice little comedy series that won’t require too much investment. ~ Nick

Based on  the art and genres alone, I’ll be giving this a try, though I’m not expecting much more than some cheap laughs. A couple of that type of show each season always makes for a more enjoyable experience. ~ Jordan

Dimension WDimension W
Air Date: Jan 10, 2016
Studio: Studio 3Hz
Episodes:
Genre: Sci-Fi, Seinen
Simulcast: Animax UK, FUNimation
Synopsis: In the year 2072, the world’s energy problems seem solved by a network of cross-dimensional electric-field inductors—”coils”—that extract energy from a seemingly infinite source. That source is the W dimension, a fourth plane that exists beyond the X, Y, and Z dimensions.

In this world, unofficial “illegal” coils harness powers that the police can’t hope to counter. Dealing with these coils is the job of coil-hating repo man Kyoma, whose run-in with the unique coil android Mira leads the two to form a reluctant partnership. (Source: FUNimation)

Our Thoughts: Dimension W is one of the series im most looking forward to this season though I’m not entirely sure why. It definitely appeals to me being both Sci-fi and Seinen and the PVs really show this off. Studio 3Hz don’t really have much under their belts and director Kamei Kanta (Usagi Drop) has only worked on a handful of series himself but I’m still optimistic about this one. ~Nick

Divine GateDivine Gate
Air Date: Jan 8, 2016
Studio: Studio Pierrot
Episodes:
Genre: Action, Fantasy, Sci-Fi
Simulcast: Animax UK
Synopsis: When the Divine Gate opened, the living world, the heavens, and the underworld became connected, ushering an era of chaos where desires and conflict intersect. To restore order, the World Council is formed. As peace is restored, the Divine Gate becomes an urban legend.

In that world, boys and girls deemed fit by the World Council are gathered. They are ones who aim to reach the gate for their personal objectives. Those who reach the gate can remake the world.

What lies beyond the gate? When they reach the door, will the world change? Will it be the past that changes, or will it be the future? (Source: MAL News)

Durarara!!x2 KetsuDurarara!!x2 Ketsu
Air Date: Jan 9, 2016
Studio: Studio Shuka
Episodes: 12
Genre: Action, Mystery, Supernatural
Simulcast: Crunchyroll, FUNimation
Synopsis: Ikebukuro — a place filled with conspiracy plotters. After an information exchange center has been attacked, a young man who possesses the strength of two color gangs: “Dollars” and “Blue Squares,” walks on a path to end the chaos with his own ideologies. (Source: ANN)

Our Thoughts: Who doesn’t love more Durarara!! of course if your new to the series you wouldn’t want to jump in here but its the third and final cour of x2! ~ Nick

After another season of waiting, we finally get the final cour of Durarara!! X2; this will likely be one of the highlights of each week, though I’ll be sad to see it end.~ Jordan

GateGate: Jieitai Kanochi nite, Kaku Tatakaeri – Enryuu-hen
Air Date: Jan 9, 2016
Studio: A-1 Pictures
Episodes: 12
Genre: Action, Adventure, Fantasy, Military
Simulcast: Crunchyroll
Synopsis: The military fantasy series begins when a gate appears in Tokyo’s Ginza district sometime in the 21st century. From the gate pours out monsters, knights from middle-age Europe, and other fantasy-like beings, and they kill many of the citizens of Tokyo. This event is known as the Ginza Incident.

The government sends a small group of soldiers from the Japanese Self-Defense Forces (a replacement for Japan’s military) to the alternate world beyond the gate. Led by otaku soldier Youji, they find that the villages in the world are being attacked by a dragon. An elf girl who is a survivor from the dragon’s rampage joins the group in their travels across the dangerous new world. (Source: ANN)

Our Thoughts: For those like me who were watching Gate during the Summer 2015 season, the sudden revelation of a split-cour was a shock. Thankfully here we are getting ready to receive the second half of this series. Although after the first half my expectations are slightly lower than they were originally but it will be enjoyable nonetheless. ~ Nick

I tried to like Heavy Object, which stole the timeslot of GATE, but couldn’t bring myself to, dropping it after 8 episodes. I am hyped for the return of GATE; initially touted as a 24 episode series, the reveal of a split cour was one of the most devastating announcements during Summer last year. ~ Jordan

Hai to Gensou no GrimgarHai to Gensou no Grimgar (Grimgar of Fantasy and Ash)
Air Date: Jan 11, 2016
Studio: A-1 Pictures
Episodes:
Genre: Action, Adventure, Drama, Fantasy
Simulcast: Animax UK, FUNimation
Synopsis: Living, isn’t easy.
When Haruhito awakens, he’s in the dark.
He doesn’t know where he is, why is he here, and where he came from.
Around him there are several men and women who have the same circumstances.
Together, they advance forward away from the darkness, and a world they’ve never seen before called “Grimgar” spreads out before them.
Memories, money, special powers — This is the reality we who have none of those things have obtained. (Source: ANN)

HaruchikaHaruchika: Haruta to Chika wa Seishun Suru
Air Date: Jan 7, 2016
Studio: P.A. Works
Episodes: 12
Genre: Mystery, Romance, School, Slice of Life
Simulcast: Animax UK, Daisuki, FUNimation
Synopsis: Haruta and Chika are members of their high school wind instrument club that is on the verge of being shut down. The two are childhood friends, and they spend their days practicing hard while also trying to recruit new members. When a certain incident happens within their school, they work together to solve it. (Source: ANN)

Our Thoughts: P.A. Works have a very strong history of great titles so I always look forward to what they will have for us each season. Haruchika doesn’t immediately appeal to me but I have been surprised before so I’ll definitely be giving it a try. ~ Nick

Abbreviated name, romance, school, slice of life – I can guarantee this will end up being one of my favourites of the season. At this point, a fair portion of my pick-ups are based on what I expect me to watch based on previous seasons rather than on the merit of a show. ~ Jordan

Kono Subarashii Sekai ni Shukufuku wo!Kono Subarashii Sekai ni Shukufuku wo!
Air Date: Jan 14, 2016
Studio: Studio Deen
Episodes: 10
Genre: Adventure, Comedy, Fantasy, Romance, Supernatural
Simulcast: Crunchyroll
Synopsis: The popular “alternate world home comedy” centers around Kazuma Satō, a hikikomori (shut-in) die-hard fan of games, anime, and manga. A traffic accident brings his disappointingly brief life to an end … or it should have, but he wakes up and sees a beautiful girl who introduces herself as a goddess. “Hey, I have some good news — would you like to go to an alternate world? You may only bring one thing you like with you.”

He responds, “…So, I’ll bring you.” With that, he is transported to another world and his great adventure subjugating the demon king begins … but first the hard work of finding food, clothing, and shelter begins. Kazuma wants to live in peace, but the goddess raises one problem after another, and then the demon king’s army has its eyes set on him. (Source: ANN)

Our Thoughts: The OVA is scheduled for June; that’s right, it’s this season’s 10(+1OVA) episode anime. I make a habit of watching these each season as you get to complete two anime on MyAnimeList for the viewing time of less than one cour. They tend to be enjoyable anyway, usually leaving you wanting more. ~ Jordan

Koukaku no PandoraKoukaku no Pandora
Air Date: Jan 8, 2016
Studio: Studio Gokumi
Episodes:
Genre: Action, Comedy, Ecchi, Sci-Fi
Simulcast: Animax UK, Daisuki, FUNimation
Synopsis: When Nanakorobi Nene, a cybernetically enhanced girl-next-door, heads to the island metropolis of Cenancle to live with her aunt, she has no way of knowing what’s in store for her. A chance meeting intertwines her fate with that of the super-rich inventor, Uzal Delilah, and her adorable and grumpy companion, Clarion, who happens to be a cyborg just like Nene. Nene is thrilled to make a friend, but there’s more to Uzal and Clarion—and the island of Cenancle itself—than meets the eye. When a super-powered terrorist threatens Cenancle, Uzal claims that the only way to avert disaster is for Nene to team up with Clarion and use their combined powers—abilities Nene never even knew she had. (Source: ANN)

Luck & LogicLuck & Logic
Air Date: Jan 9, 2016
Studio: Doga Kobo
Episodes:
Genre: Action, Fantasy
Simulcast: Daisuki, FUNimation
Synopsis: In L.C. 922, people faced a sudden crisis.

In Tetra Heaven, the land of legend, a hundred years of war had come to a close. The gods who lost the war searched for a new place to live, and found it in Septpia, the human world, which they proceeded to attack. The Logicalists attached to ALCA, a special police agency whose duty it was to protect cities from assaults by foreigners (angels), were compelled to act in defense of cities, whether they wished to or not.

And depending on their ability, Logicalists could initiate trance with goddesses from the other world, and stand a fighting chance on the battlefield.

A civilian named Yoshichika Tsurugi, who lacked “Logic” and lived happily with his family, was caught up in an attack, and took shelter along with many people. He meets a beautiful goddess named Athena. In her hands, she had the “Logic” that Yoshichika lacked. Now both Yoshichika and Athena head to their destiny. (Source: ANN)

Our Thoughts: Whenever there is a collaboration anime designed to promote a new trading card game I’m always dubious. The series and card game is a collaboration between Bushiroad, Bandai Visual, Dogakobo Nitroplus, Lantis, and Yuhodo. I’m a huge fan of TCGs but rarely do their anime counterparts provide anything more than an advertisement for the game. Some of the more popular TGCs will have an anime where you game is a part of the story like Yu-Gi-Oh! Whether Luck & Logic follows this formula we’ll have to wait and see but I’m certainly going to try it out. ~Nick

Musaigen no Phantom WorldMusaigen no Phantom World (Myriad Colors Phantom World)
Air Date: Jan 7, 2016
Studio: Kyoto Animation
Episodes: 13
Genre: Action, Fantasy, Supernatural
Simulcast: Crunchyroll
Synopsis: In the near future, spirits and monsters are in full sight. A boy leads a group of people with special abilities as they plot against a massive organization that takes advantage of a certain incident and eventually know the truth about their world in the process. (Source: Official site)

Our Thoughts: The premise might not be the most intriguing especially when you compare it to KyoAni’s previous works but because it’s KyoAni I’ll be tuning in each week. I’m very rarely disappointed by a KyoAni series so while the premise doesn’t fill me with that much excitement I’m hopefully we’ll get a good show. ~ Nick

KyoAni. I just finally finished K-On! and am looking forward to more KyoAni to keep me satisfied. KyoAni always seem to produce anime that I love, so I’m already hoping it sees a UK physical release at some point. ~ Jordan

Norn9NornNonetNorn9: Norn+Nonet
Air Date: Jan 7, 2016
Studio: Kinema Citrus
Episodes:
Genre: Adventure, Fantasy, Romance, Shoujo
Simulcast: Anime Network
Synopsis: The story takes place a little in the future. Guided by one particular song, young elementary school student Suzuhara Sorata, from the Heisei Era, is warped through a time skip to an unfamiliar place that looks much like the towns from the Meiji or Taishou period from his textbooks. In this world, he meets three young ladies and nine young men and joins them on a journey aboard the mysterious Norn ship, a giant globe that floats in midair.

Nurse Witch Komugi-chan RNurse Witch Komugi-chan R
Air Date: Jan 10, 2016
Studio: Tatsunoko Production
Episodes: 12
Genre: Comedy, Magic, Parody
Simulcast: Crunchyroll
Synopsis: Komugi Yoshida is a somewhat clumsy second-year middle-school student whose strong point is her spiritedness. She performs as an idol like Kokona Saionji (her classmate and close friend) and Tsubasa Kisaragi (an idol who dresses in male clothing). However, unlike Kokona whose popularity is skyrocketing and Tsubasa with her charisma in male attire, Komugi’s only gigs are low-end ones like those at the local shopping district. Still, Komugi has her “dream” as she lives her dual lives as a idol and a middle school girl.

One day, a mysterious injured creature named Usa-P appears before Komugi. Komugi gives Usa-P medical treatment, and Usa-P, in consideration of Komugi’s kindness, asks if she wants to be a Legendary Girl who can use magical powers.

Having become a reluctant Legendary Girl, Komugi battles strange masked figures who suddenly appear! As a newly deemed Magical Nurse, she fights still more waves of masked figures. Meanwhile, a Magical Maid, a Magical Sister, and more also appear to make it a three-way battle!? Can Komugi handle the three roles of middle school girl, idol, and Magical Nurse? And, what lies ahead in these battles and her “dream”…?! (Source: ANN)

Phantasy Star Online 2 The AnimationPhantasy Star Online 2 The Animation
Air Date: Jan 8, 2016
Studio: Telecom Animation Film
Episodes:
Genre: Sci-Fi
Simulcast: Crunchyroll
Synopsis: TV anime adaptation of the online RPG game Phantasy Star Online 2. It will feature an original story that takes place on Earth in the near future. (Source: MAL News)

Our Thoughts: An interesting one is Phantasy Star Online 2 The Animation, while its an adaptation of the a game it will also feature an original story. I don’t quite know what to make of that but being connected to Phantasy Star should get fans of the games excited, I for one will be giving it the three episode rule. ~ Nick

Prince of Stride AlternativePrince of Stride: Alternative
Air Date: Jan 5, 2016
Studio: Madhouse
Episodes:
Genre: Sports
Simulcast: Animax UK, Daisuki, FUNimation
Synopsis: The series is about an extreme form of sport known as “Stride.” It involves 6 players on a team that runs relay races in towns. The story takes place at Honan Academy where first year high school students Takeru Fujiwara and Nana Sakurai try to recruit members for their “Stride” club. They request Riku Yagami to join with the help of Takeru and Nana. Their goal is to compete and win the “End of Summer,” a top competition hosted in Japan alongside other schools. (Source: MAL News)

Our Thoughts: This doesn’t really seem like my type of anime, but with the main character being voiced by the brilliant Kana Hanazawa, I’ll be watching each week unless it really offends me. ~ Jordan

ReikenzanReikenzan: Hoshikuzu-tachi no Utage
Air Date: Jan 9, 2016
Studio: Studio Deen
Episodes:
Genre: Comedy, Fantasy, Magic
Simulcast:
Synopsis: In the anime’s story, a comet falling will bring about a great calamity, and in order to choose a child fated by the falling comet, the family of the “Reiken” clan with a long storied history is once again resuming its entrance examination process to find disciples. The protagonist, who possesses a special soul that is only available once in a thousand years, decides to take the exam, and he starts down the path toward becoming an exceptional sage. (Source: ANN)

Saijaku Muhai no BahamutSaijaku Muhai no Bahamut (Undefeated Bahamut Chronicle)
Air Date: Jan 11, 2016
Studio: Lerche
Episodes:
Genre: Action, Ecchi, Fantasy, Harem, Romance, Supernatural
Simulcast: Anime Network
Synopsis: Lux, a former prince of an empire named Arcadia that was overthrown via a rebellion five years earlier. Lux accidentally trespasses in a female dormitory’s bathing area, sees the kingdom’s new princess Lisesharte naked, and incurs her wrath. Lisesharte then challenges Lux to a Drag-Ride duel. Drag-Rides are ancient armored mechanical weapons that have been excavated from ruins all around the world. Lux used to be called the strongest Drag-Knight, but now he’s known as the “undefeated weakest” Drag-Knight because he will absolutely not attack in battle. After his duel with Lisesharte, Lux ends up attending the female-only academy that trains royals to be Drag-Knights. (Source: ANN)

Our Thoughts: It’s this season’s generic school battle anime. After Rakudai Kishi no Cavalry last season, it’s got a lot to live up to. ~ Jordan

SchwarzesmarkenSchwarzesmarken
Air Date: Jan 11, 2016
Studio: LIDENFILMS
Episodes:
Genre: Action, Mecha, Military, Sci-Fi, Seinen
Simulcast: Crunchyroll
Synopsis: Schwarzesmarken is a spin-off of the Muv-Luv Alternative series, but the events takes place in 1983.

The East German Army 666th TSF Squadron “Schwarzesmarken” (Black Marks) are a special-forces unit tasked with assaulting BETA forces through unconventional tactics; specifically, they target Lux and Magnus Lux to deny the BETA the advantage of ranged firepower. Their orders are given the topmost priority, such that it is common practice for the 666th to ignore allied distress calls that will result in deviation from their original mission, even if only for a short moment.

The 666th Squadron mostly operates MiG-21s, with their squadron commander Irisdena Bernhard piloting an MiG-21PF. (Source: Muv-Luv Wikia, edited)

Our Thoughts: I’m rather hesitant about Schwarzesmarken, I love Sci-fi and mecha but having witnessed one of the worst anime I’ve ever seen in Muv-Luv Alternative: Total Eclipse I don’t know if I want to risk it. There is hope though and it lies with Liden Films who while not having a large portfolio they have put out some good series such as Yamada-kun and the Seven Witches but most importantly they weren’t involved in Muv-Luv Alternative: Total Eclipse. ~ Nick

Shoujo-tachi wa Kouya wo MezasuShoujo-tachi wa Kouya wo Mezasu (Girls beyond the youth KOYA)
Air Date: Jan 7, 2016
Studio: Project No.9
Episodes:
Genre: School
Simulcast: Anime Network
Synopsis: In the story, Buntarou is a student who wants to be something, but doesn’t know what. One day his female classmate Sayuki announces she is working on a bishoujo game. Sayuki scouted him because he wrote a good script for drama club, but Buntarou doesn’t know anything about bishoujo games. (Source: ANN)

Our Thoughts: Kana Hanazawa voices the girl second from the left. Need I say more? ~ Jordan

Shouwa Genroku Rakugo ShinjuuShouwa Genroku Rakugo Shinjuu
Air Date: Jan 16, 2016
Studio: Studio Deen
Episodes: 13
Genre: Drama, Josei
Simulcast: Crunchyroll
Synopsis: The first story revolves around a mature prisoner who was released on good behavior during Japan’s Showa Genroku era (1960s to early 1970s). He is called Yotarou by others, a term that means an “anti-hero” or a “dim-witted man.” When he returns to society, he starts a new life in rakugo (comic storytelling). Touched by Yakumo’s role as the “grim reaper,” he asks the master to take him in as an apprentice. (Source: ANN)


FairyTailZeroFairy Tail Zero
Air Date: Jan 9, 2016
Studio: A-1 Pictures
Episodes:
Genre: Fantasy, Magic, Shounen
Simulcast: Crunchyroll, FUNimation
Synopsis: Many years ago, Mavis Vermilion was a servant on Sirius Island, mistreated by a guild master and his daughter, Zera. But Mavis stayed positive, because her mother once told her that fairies never visit people who cry about their problems. When the guild came under attack, Mavis pulled Zera from the wreckage into the forest. Seven years went by, and the powerful wizards Warrod Sequen, Precht, and Yuri Dreyer arrived on the island, seeking a powerful jade gemstone. This journey would change the course of magical history. (Source: ANN)

*This entry has been separated from the main list because it is a continuation of the Fairy Tail (2014) anime adaptation starting from episode 91. Therefore it is not a new season but we still felt it should appear in this season’s preview.

Our Thoughts: I don’t watch Fairy Tail, but I may watch this each week due to the inclusion of Kana Hanazawa in the cast. Not being able to track it on MyAnimeList may actually kill me though. ~ Jordan

LupinIIILupin III (2015)
Air Date: Aug 30, 2015 to Nov 30, 2015
Studio: Telecom Animation Film
Episodes: 26(Italy), 24 + 2BD/DVD Exclusive (Japan)
Genre: Action, Adventure, Comedy, Shounen
Simulcast: Crunchyroll
Synopsis: Lupin will be starring as the main character in this upcoming series set to take place in Italy and San Marino.

Reflecting its setting, the anime will debut in Italy before airing in Japan. Lupin III fans will note that the titular thief now has a blue coat, following his earlier appearances in green (first series and some OVAs), red (the second series as well as most films and television specials) or pink (third series). (Source: Crunchyroll)

*The recent Lupin III anime was one of the very few titles seen on last season’s preview not to be simulcast in English. We have decided to add it here because Crunchyroll will be streaming the series from January 7th 2016.

Our thougts: Finally, a Lupin III series on Crunchyroll in the UK. I’ll be making use of this simulcast as soon as it starts. They’ll be adding the already aired episodes as well. Sadly, episodes 6 and 23, despite airing in Italy, are only on the home media release in Japan. This will throw off the numbering, especially if you use MyAnimeList. ~ Jordan

Editor-in-chief