Fans eagerly awaiting the return of the dark fantasy anime Chained Soldier (also known as Mato Seihei no Slave) were treated to an exciting glimpse of its second season with the release of a new promotional video. The trailer, unveiled during Jump Festa 2026, offers a preview of the upcoming season’s opening theme song, “Hikari yo, Boku ni” (光よ、僕に。), performed by Akari Kito. Season 2 of Chained Soldier is set to premiere on January 8, 2026.
Diving into the New Promo Video
The latest promotional video for Chained Soldier Season 2 showcases new action sequences and introduces viewers to some of the characters and challenges awaiting Yuuki Wakura and the Anti-Demon Corps. It provides a deeper look into the world of Mato and the ongoing battle against the monstrous Shuuki. Crucially, the trailer marks the first time fans can hear a snippet of the opening theme “Hikari yo, Boku ni” by Akari Kito, who also voices the character Kyouka Uzen in the series. The song’s energetic melody sets an exciting tone for the upcoming season, hinting at the supernatural action and evolving narrative.
The Team Behind Chained Soldier Season 2
The second season sees some changes in the production studio, with Passione and Hayabusa Film taking over animation duties. The first season was animated by Seven Arcs. Masafumi Tamura (known for The World’s Finest Assassin Gets Reincarnated in Another World as an Aristocrat) is directing the second season. Yasuhiro Nakanishi is handling the series composition, ensuring a cohesive storytelling experience. Character designs are being handled by Keiya Nakano, while Kohta Yamamoto is composing the music, promising an impactful auditory experience.
Key Staff for the Second Season:
- Director: Masafumi Tamura
- Series Composition: Yasuhiro Nakanishi
- Character Design: Keiya Nakano
- Music: KOHTA YAMAMOTO
- Animation Studios: Passione × Hayabusa Film
Returning Cast and New Additions
Akari Kito returns as the voice of Kyouka Uzen, and her contribution to the opening theme further solidifies her presence in the series. Yuya Hirose is also confirmed to reprise his role as the protagonist, Yuuki Wakura. The trailer and recent announcements have also revealed new cast members joining the ensemble, though specific roles for some are yet to be fully detailed. Kana Hanazawa will voice Ren Yamashiro, and Maaya Uchida will voice Tenka Izumo, both of whom will also perform ending themes for the season.
The World of Chained Soldier
Chained Soldier, known in Japan as Mato Seihei no Slave, is based on the manga written by Takahiro and illustrated by Yohei Takemura. The story is set in a world where mysterious gates to a demonic dimension called Mato have appeared, unleashing dangerous monsters known as Shuuki. Humanity’s only defense lies in special “Peach” trees that grant supernatural abilities, but only to women.
The narrative follows Yuuki Wakura, a young man who unexpectedly finds himself in the world of Mato and is rescued by Kyouka Uzen, the chief of the Seventh Unit of the Anti-Demon Corps. Kyouka discovers that her unique ability, “Slave,” which allows her to power up a living being under her control, works exceptionally well with Yuuki. He becomes her “slave” and transforms into a powerful beast mount, aiding the all-female Demon Defense Force in their fight. The series blends action, fantasy, and ecchi elements, exploring themes of power, sacrifice, and the unique dynamics between its male protagonist and the powerful female warriors.
Fans outside of Japan will be able to stream Chained Soldier Season 2 exclusively on HIDIVE. The upcoming season promises to deliver more intense battles and further delve into the compelling story of Yuuki and the Anti-Demon Corps.
