The highly anticipated anime adaptation of the popular fighting game series, Guilty Gear Strive: Dual Rulers, has released a new trailer, revealing key details about the show’s premiere and production. Fans can mark their calendars for an April 5th debut in Japan, with a global release on Crunchyroll to follow. The trailer showcases the anime’s dynamic animation, teases the story, and introduces the opening theme song.
Anime Series Overview
Guilty Gear Strive: Dual Rulers is inspired by Arc System Works’ Guilty Gear fighting game franchise, with the story drawing heavily from the most recent installment, Guilty Gear Strive. The anime promises to delve deeper into the complex lore and characters that fans have come to love. The series will be animated by Sanzigen Inc., known for their work on other notable projects, including the “Find Your One Way” music video for Guilty Gear -Strive- and Sakura Wars the Animation.
Story Synopsis
The anime is set in a world where magic has replaced science and technology as the primary energy source. This shift led to the creation of Gears, powerful biological weapons that eventually turned against humanity in a conflict known as The Crusades. While humanity emerged victorious, the losses were immense, leaving deep emotional scars.
The story focuses on Sin Kiske, the son of human Ky Kiske and Gear Dizzy. As Ky and Dizzy prepare to marry, a union that breaks a long-standing taboo, a mysterious girl named Unika appears. Unika, who harbors a strong hatred for Gears, dramatically impacts the lives of Sin and others, setting the stage for a new, world-altering conflict. The series will explore the complex relationships between humans and Gears, as well as the legacy of past conflicts. It is the first Guilty Gear media to focus on Sin Kiske as the main protagonist.
Premiere and Streaming Details
The anime is scheduled to premiere in Japan on April 5th at 22:30 JST, with broadcasts on TOKYO MX and ABC TV. Shortly after the Japanese premiere, Guilty Gear Strive: Dual Rulers will be available to stream on Crunchyroll, bringing the series to a global audience.
Opening Theme Song
The trailer also reveals the anime’s opening theme song, titled “AXCLUSION,” performed by ulma sound junction. The song is expected to capture the high-energy and dramatic atmosphere of the series.
Cast and Characters
The anime will feature a mix of returning and new voice actors to bring the characters to life. The confirmed cast includes:
- Sin Kiske voiced by Issei Miyazaki
- Sol Badguy voiced by Jouji Nakata
- Unika voiced by Yui Ishikawa
- Ky Kiske voiced by Takeshi Kusao
- Dizzy voiced by Kazue Fujita
- Bridget voiced by Manaka Iwami
- Ramlethal Valentine voiced by Megumi Han
- Elphelt Valentine voiced by Aya Suzaki
- Jack-O voiced by Hiromi Igarashi
- Baiken voiced by Mayumi Asano
- Johnny voiced by Norio Wakamoto
- Leo Whitefang voiced by Tetsu Inada
- Vernon voiced by Junichi Endo
- Nerville Hammer voiced by Yasuhiro Mamiya
- Narrator voiced by Tomokazu Sugita
Many of these voice actors are reprising their roles from the Guilty Gear video game series, ensuring continuity and authenticity for the adaptation. The introduction of Yui Ishikawa as the mysterious Unika is a key addition, adding a new layer of intrigue to the narrative.
Production Team
The anime is being directed by Shigeru Morikawa, who previously directed Chrono Crusade. The series composition is being handled by Norimitsu Kaiho, a veteran of the Guilty Gear franchise. Other key staff members include:
- Original Character Designs: Daisuke Ishiwatari (Arc System Works)
- Animation Character Design: Takuya Chanohara, Yuka Hachimori, and Joseph Shin
- Music: Ryo Takahashi (WIND BREAKER)
- Art Director: Kazuhiro Arai
- Director of Photography: Daisuke Okumura
- Editor: Hatsumi Hidaka
- Color Designer: Miyu Ishibashi
- Sound Director: Fumihiko Otera
- Associate Producer: Seiji Mizushima
This talented group of individuals brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the production, promising a high-quality adaptation of the beloved game series.
What to Expect
Guilty Gear Strive: Dual Rulers is shaping up to be a compelling addition to the franchise. The anime will not only bring the characters and story of the Guilty Gear world to life but also delve deeper into the lore, and explore new aspects of the narrative.
The series will likely feature action-packed sequences, intricate character development, and the signature art style that fans have come to expect from Guilty Gear. The anime will provide an entry point for new viewers, while also rewarding long-time fans with a fresh perspective on the series. With its April premiere date fast approaching, anticipation is building for what looks to be an exciting chapter in the Guilty Gear saga.
The release of the main trailer and key visual has further fueled fan excitement and showcased the stunning visuals and high production values of the series. As the premiere date draws closer, fans are eager to see how the anime will expand the lore and add to the legacy of this popular fighting game franchise. The involvement of familiar voices, along with new additions, promises to make the anime a must-watch for both Guilty Gear enthusiasts and newcomers alike.
