The “It’s Anime” YouTube channel is now streaming several anime series in the U.S. and Canada, offering fans access to classics like KochiKame, Reborn!, Yakitate!! Japan, and True Cooking Master Boy.
What’s Streaming? A Look at the Lineup
Here’s a breakdown of the anime currently available on the “It’s Anime” YouTube channel:
- KochiKame (Kochira Katsushika-ku Kamearikouen-mae Hashutsujo): The first episode is already available, with new episodes releasing every Friday. This marks the first time the anime has been officially released with English subtitles in North America.
- Reborn!: New episodes are being streamed daily.
- Yakitate!! Japan: New episodes are released on Mondays and Tuesdays.
- True Cooking Master Boy: Episodes stream on Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays. This anime is also available on Crunchyroll and Tubi TV.
All of these anime are available for streaming in the U.S. and Canada.
KochiKame: A Comedy Classic
Kochikame debuted in 1996 and ran for over 300 episodes until 2004. The series follows Kankichi Ryotsu, a policeman who loves money and often gets into trouble with his antics. The Kochikame manga, created by Osamu Akimoto, concluded in September 2016 after 40 years of serialization. The manga series boasts approximately 150 million copies in print as of June 2016. Kochikame has also inspired several other adaptations, including anime films, specials, live-action films, a live-action series, and stage plays.
Reborn!: Mafia Comedy
Reborn!, also known as Katekyo Hitman Reborn!, is based on the manga series by Akira Amano. The story revolves around Tsunayoshi Sawada, a timid boy who discovers he is the next in line to become the boss of the Vongola family, a powerful Mafia organization. To prepare him, the Vongolas send Reborn, a gun-toting infant hitman, to train Tsuna. Reborn! was serialized in Weekly Shonen Jump from May 2004 to November 2012, with its chapters compiled into 42 volumes.
Where to Watch Reborn!
Besides YouTube, Reborn! is available on other streaming services:
- Crunchyroll: Offers Reborn! for streaming.
- Hulu: All 203 episodes are available on Hulu.
- Tubi TV: Also streams Reborn!.
Streaming Anime in the U.S. and Canada: A Growing Trend
The availability of these anime on YouTube signifies a growing trend of streaming anime in North America. Legal streaming services have transformed how fans access anime, providing vast libraries of subtitled and dubbed content.
Popular Anime Streaming Platforms
Here are some of the most popular platforms for streaming anime in the U.S. and Canada:
- Crunchyroll: Known for having the largest licensed anime library, with many titles available with subtitles and dubs. Simulcasts of top shows are also offered.
- Hulu: Offers a selection of anime titles alongside other genres.
- Netflix: Known for its original anime content.
- Tubi TV: A free streaming service with a selection of anime.
- HIDIVE: Offers uncensored and exclusive anime content.
- RetroCrush: Focuses on older anime series.
- Amazon Prime Video: Includes anime content.
- Pluto TV: Provides free anime streaming with ads.
The Rise of Legal Streaming
The rise of legal anime streaming services has provided fans with a convenient and legitimate way to enjoy their favorite shows. These services offer extensive libraries, often with both subtitled and dubbed versions, allowing fans to watch anime shortly after its premiere in Japan.
Benefits of Legal Streaming
- Content Variety: Licensed platforms like Crunchyroll and HIDIVE offer vast libraries for a monthly subscription.
- Accessibility: Streaming services are accessible on various devices, including smartphones, tablets, smart TVs, and gaming consoles.
- Quality: Legal streaming ensures high-quality video and audio, along with accurate subtitles and professional dubbing.
- Support for Creators: By using legal platforms, fans support the anime industry, encouraging the creation of more content.
Final Thoughts
The addition of KochiKame, Reborn!, Yakitate!! Japan, and True Cooking Master Boy to the “It’s Anime” YouTube channel is a welcome development for anime fans in the U.S. and Canada. With the increasing availability of legal streaming options, fans can easily access a wide range of anime content and support the industry.
