The original anime series, previously known simply as Turkey!, has officially been retitled Turkey! Time to Strike and has revealed a significant plot twist alongside a new trailer, a third key visual, and additional cast members. This surprising development was unveiled shortly after the broadcast of its first episode in Japan on July 8, 2025.
From Bowling Club to Sengoku Era
Initially promoted as a coming-of-age sports anime centered around a high school bowling club in Chikuma City, Nagano Prefecture, Turkey! Time to Strike introduced a dramatic genre shift at the conclusion of its premiere episode. The narrative now includes a time-travel element, transporting the five members of the Ikkokukan High School bowling team to Japan’s turbulent Sengoku (Warring States) period. This unexpected turn sees the girls encountering the historical Tokura family, setting the stage for an emotional and action-filled tale that blends bowling with historical adventure.
The anime’s updated synopsis details how Mai, the bowling club captain who values enjoyment over victory, faces a challenge from her junior, Rina, who is determined to win. When Rina threatens to quit, a one-game match ensues. During this game, the bowling ball glows, enveloping the five club members in a mysterious light, only for them to awaken in the Sengoku era.
New Visual and Trailer Highlight Genre Shift
Following the plot twist, a second main trailer and a third key visual have been released, reflecting the anime’s new direction. The third key visual prominently features the five high school bowling club members alongside the Tokura family, surrounded by flames, hinting at the challenges and solemn expressions they now face in the past. The tagline on the new visual reads, “Let’s all go home together, ok?” The official website for Turkey! Time to Strike posted the new trailer and visual immediately after the first episode’s broadcast.
Expanded Cast Introduced
In conjunction with the genre reveal, five new voice cast members have been announced, portraying characters encountered in the Sengoku period. These additions join the previously revealed main cast for the Ikkokukan High School bowling club.
The newly announced cast members include:
- Noriko Hidaka as Sumomo
- Yuko Minaguchi as Akebi
- Kikuko Inoue as Suguri
- Miki Ito as Anzu
- Rei Sakuma as Natsume
They join the main voice cast, which stars Hana Ishikawa as Mai Otonashi, Kana Ichinose as Rina Godai, Haruki Iwata as Sayuri Ichinose, Yuuki Tenma as Nozomi Mitaka, and Ayasa Ito as Nanase Nikaido.
Production and Streaming Information
Turkey! Time to Strike is an original anime produced by Pony Canyon and animated by BAKKEN RECORD, a label under Tatsunoko Production. Susumu Kudo (known for Joran: The Princess of Snow and Blood) is directing the series, with Naomi Hiruta handling the script and Airi Takekawa responsible for character designs. Yuki Hayashi is composing the music.
The anime began broadcasting in Japan on July 8, 2025, on Nippon TV and other networks. It is streaming worldwide on Crunchyroll. The opening theme song, “Hyakunichisou,” is performed by the five main cast members under the moniker “Ikkokukan High School Bowling Club, Nagano Prefecture.” A Blu-ray release has also been confirmed, with Volume 1 scheduled for November 19 and Volume 2 for January 28, 2026. These packages will include special features such as an exclusive illustrated jacket by character designer Airi Takekawa, a deluxe booklet, and cast and staff audio commentary.
