The upcoming original anime “Turkey!” is generating excitement among anime enthusiasts, with the official premiere date set for July 8, 2025. A promotional video has been released, offering a glimpse into the world of high school bowling and the challenges faced by the main characters. Here’s everything you need to know about this series.
What is “Turkey!” About?
“Turkey!” is an original Japanese anime television series centered around the sport of bowling. Produced by Pony Canyon and animated by Bakken Record, the series is set in Chikuma City, Nagano Prefecture. The story revolves around five high school girls who are members of the Ikkokukan High School Bowling Club. The anime explores their struggles, friendships, and pursuit of victory in the competitive world of bowling. The series aims to be more than just fun, delving into themes that are mysterious, precious, bittersweet, and irreplaceable.
In bowling terms, a “turkey” signifies three consecutive strikes. The central character, Mai Otonashi, is portrayed as a genius who struggles to win matches. Despite her talent, she often encounters an insurmountable split, known as “Snake Eyes,” after achieving a turkey. Rina Godai, a first-year member, challenges Mai’s approach, accusing her of avoiding victory. The dynamic between these characters and their teammates forms the core of the narrative.
Release Date and Where to Watch
“Turkey!” is scheduled to premiere on July 8, 2025, on Nippon TV and other channels. It will also be broadcast on BS NTV on July 10 and on TV Shinshu on July 12.
Characters and Voice Actors
The anime features a cast of five main characters, each with their own unique personality and challenges:
- Mai Otonashi: Voiced by Hana Hishikawa, Mai is a second-year student and the captain of the bowling club. Despite her genius, she struggles to win matches.
- Rina Godai: Voiced by Kana Ichinose, Rina is the only first-year member of the club. She is determined to win and challenges Mai’s leadership.
- Sayuri Ichinose: Voiced by Haruki Iwata, Sayuri is another member of the bowling club, contributing to the team’s dynamics.
- Nozomi Mitaka: Voiced by Yuuki Tenma, Nozomi adds to the group’s diverse personalities and aspirations.
- Nanase Nikaido: Voiced by Ayasa Ito, Nanase is an integral part of the team, working alongside her teammates towards their goals.
Production Staff
The production team behind “Turkey!” includes:
- Original Work: BAKKEN RECORD, Pony Canyon
- Director: Susumu Kudo
- Script: Naomi Hiruta
- Character Design: Airi Takekawa
- Chief Animation Director: Airi Takekawa
- Main Animator: Yuto Naka
- Color Design: Haruko Nobori
- Art Director: Kenichi Tajiri
- Director of Photography: Yohei Konishi
- CG Director: Natsuki Horimoto
- Editing: Yukie Oikawa
- Music: Yuki Hayashi
- Music Production: Pony Canyon
- Producers: Tetsuya Kinoshita, Toshiya Kitabayashi
- Animation Producer: Yutaka Omatsu
- Animation Production: BAKKEN RECORD
Themes and Key Visuals
The series explores themes of friendship, competition, and personal growth. The key visuals released showcase the five main characters in dynamic bowling poses, capturing the spirit of the sport and the essence of their camaraderie.
Music
The opening theme, “Hyakunichisou,” is performed by the five voice actors of the main characters, celebrating their unity. The ending theme, “Moshimo,” is performed by Dance with the Sun, Sing in the Moonlight.
Production Details
“Turkey!” is set in the city of Chikuma in Nagano Prefecture. The series is an original anime created jointly by Tatsunoko Productions’ label “BAKKEN RECORD” and Pony Canyon. This collaboration aims to deliver a fresh and engaging story centered around high school girls and their passion for bowling.
Additional Information
- The anime was first announced in December 2022.
- A teaser trailer was released in March 2024, giving fans an early look at the series.
- In March 2025, a themed bus began running through Chikuma in Nagano Prefecture to promote the anime.
With its blend of sports, slice-of-life elements, and a focus on character development, “Turkey!” promises to be an exciting addition to the anime lineup in July 2025. The series will air on NTV, BS NTV, and TV Shinshu. Be sure to tune in and follow the journey of these five high school girls as they aim for victory on the bowling lanes.
