The popular light novel series Haibara’s Teenage New Game+, known in Japan as Haibara-kun no Tsuyokute Seishun New Game, has officially been greenlit for an anime adaptation. The announcement was made via the official X (formerly Twitter) account for the franchise and Hobby Japan’s HJ Bunko imprint, generating excitement among fans of the time-traveling romantic comedy.
From Award-Winning Novel to Animated Series
Authored by Kazuki Amamiya and illustrated by Gin, Haibara’s Teenage New Game+ first began publication in December 2021 under Hobby Japan’s HJ Bunko label. The series quickly gained recognition, winning the prestigious grand prize in the HJ Novel Award in 2020, cementing its appeal and paving the way for wider recognition. J-Novel Club currently publishes the light novel in English, making the series accessible to a global audience.
The series has also spawned a full-color vertical manga adaptation by Misaomaru, which ran from June 2023 to August 2024 on Comic Fire. A sequel manga, penned by Comochiya, commenced serialization in December 2024, further expanding the narrative. The ninth volume of the light novel, released in Japan on July 1, 2025, is noted as the beginning of the series’ final arc.
A Second Chance at Youth
The premise of Haibara’s Teenage New Game+ centers on Natsuki Haibara, a socially anxious college senior burdened by regrets from his high school years. In a bewildering turn of events, Haibara finds himself inexplicably transported seven years into the past, specifically one month before he is set to begin his first year of high school.
Armed with the knowledge of his past mistakes and a desire for a different outcome, Natsuki embarks on a “New Game+” for his teenage years. His goal is to avoid past blunders, ascend the school’s social hierarchy, and ultimately win the affection of the girl of his dreams. The narrative explores his comedic and often challenging efforts to navigate high school life with newfound determination, leveraging everything from workout regimens to online guides and the support of a childhood friend.
What to Expect from the Anime
While the announcement of an anime adaptation has been confirmed, specific details regarding its production remain under wraps. As of now, information concerning the release date, the animation studio responsible for the project, key staff members, or voice cast has not been disclosed. Fans will be eagerly awaiting further updates on this highly anticipated adaptation, hoping to see Natsuki Haibara’s unique journey to rewrite his past come to life on screen.
