The One Piece anime is a beloved show that follows the adventures of Monkey D. Luffy and his crew as they search for the legendary One Piece treasure. Fans were disappointed when the anime took a break in late 2024, but there is good news—it will return soon!
The break was announced to give the production team more time to work on upcoming episodes. This pause helps ensure high-quality animation and storytelling, especially as the anime moves deeper into the Final Saga, which includes crucial events in the story. By taking this break, the studio also avoids the risk of the anime catching up too quickly to the manga, which is still ongoing.
When the anime resumes, it will continue with the Egghead Island Arc. This arc is part of the Final Saga and is packed with action, mystery, and big revelations about Luffy’s journey as the Pirate King. Fans have been eagerly waiting to see how the story unfolds and how the Straw Hat crew tackles new challenges.
One Piece Franchise (Credits: Eiichiro Oda)
During the hiatus, the studio aired a remastered version of the Fish-Man Island saga. This was a treat for fans, as it offered updated visuals and a condensed story, making it easier to revisit one of the earlier arcs in the series. The remaster also served as a way to keep viewers engaged while waiting for the new episodes.
There will be some changes when One Piece returns. One of the biggest changes is the new airtime for the show in Japan. For many years, One Piece aired on Sunday mornings, but starting April 2025, it will move to a nighttime slot at 11:15 PM. This shift could allow for slightly darker or more mature storytelling as the anime progresses through its final stages.
Fans are counting down the days until April 6, 2025, when they can reunite with Luffy, Zoro, Nami, and the rest of the crew. The return promises to bring more thrilling battles, heartfelt moments, and surprising twists that will keep viewers on the edge of their seats.
One Piece Franchise (Credits: Eiichiro Oda)
Whether you’re a longtime fan or someone just getting into the series, now is a great time to catch up on previous episodes or explore the manga. The upcoming episodes are sure to be unforgettable as they bring the epic tale of One Piece closer to its grand conclusion.
So mark your calendars and get ready—One Piece is coming back soon, and the adventure is far from over! The official comeback date for the anime has been confirmed as April 6, 2025.
The One Piece anime, based on Eiichiro Oda’s legendary manga, is a sprawling adventure that spans over 1,000 episodes. With such an expansive runtime, it’s no surprise that the series includes filler episodes—stories not found in the original manga. While these fillers sometimes enrich the One Piece experience by offering additional character moments and unique plots, many fans prefer to stick to the canon storyline. This guide will help you navigate the One Piece anime, distinguishing fillers from canon and offering recommendations for the best filler arcs to watch.
One Piece Filler
Fillers are episodes or arcs created by the anime team to provide breathing room for the manga to progress. These stories often introduce new characters, scenarios, or conflicts that don’t affect the main plot. While some fillers are beloved for their creativity, others are less engaging and can disrupt the series’ pacing.
The One Piece anime has a lower filler percentage compared to other long-running series like Naruto or Bleach, with approximately 10-15% of episodes classified as filler.
One Piece (Credits: Oda Eiichiro)
One Piece Filler Episodes Guide
Below is a breakdown of major filler arcs in One Piece:
1. Warship Island Arc (Episodes 54–61)
This early filler arc follows the Straw Hats as they help a girl named Apis and her dragon companion escape the Marines. While not essential, it’s a lighthearted adventure that showcases the crew’s camaraderie.
2. Post-Alabasta Arc (Episodes 131–135)
This mini-arc includes standalone stories focused on individual Straw Hat members. Though non-canon, it offers deeper insights into the crew’s personalities.
3. G-8 Arc (Episodes 196–206)
Widely regarded as one of the best filler arcs, the G-8 Arc sees the Straw Hats infiltrating a Marine base. It features clever strategies, great humor, and an engaging plot, making it a must-watch.
4. Ocean’s Dream Arc (Episodes 220–224)
This arc involves the Straw Hats losing their memories due to a mysterious entity. Its unique premise adds an intriguing twist to the series, though it’s entirely filler.
5. Foxy’s Return Arc (Episodes 225–226)
Featuring the return of Foxy the Silver Fox, this arc is a lighthearted revisit to the character’s antics. While skippable, fans of Foxy might find it amusing.
6. Ice Hunter Arc (Episodes 326–335)
This arc introduces the Accino Family and focuses on the Straw Hats’ struggles in icy waters. It’s an action-packed filler that fans of battles may enjoy.
7. Z’s Ambition Arc (Episodes 575–578)
Tied loosely to the One Piece Film: Z, this arc serves as a prelude to the movie. It’s a good watch for fans planning to explore the film.
One Piece (Credits: Oda Eiichiro)
How to Watch One Piece Without Fillers
For fans who prefer to stick to the manga’s story, skipping fillers is straightforward. Numerous online resources list all filler episodes, allowing viewers to follow the canon-only journey. However, some filler arcs, like the G-8 Arc, are so well-crafted that they’re worth a watch even for purists.
Whether you choose to skip fillers or watch them, One Piece offers an unforgettable journey. Filler episodes can serve as entertaining detours, giving fans more time with their favorite characters. With this guide, you can tailor your viewing experience to suit your preferences, ensuring your voyage through the Grand Line is as enjoyable as possible.
Jinbei, the honorable fish-man and former Warlord of the Sea, has been a pivotal figure in One Piece for a significant part of the series. His journey with Luffy and the Straw Hat Pirates is marked by loyalty, selflessness, and a shared dream of uniting the world beyond discrimination and prejudice. Fans eagerly awaited the moment he would officially join the crew, making him the tenth member of the Straw Hats.
The official moment when Jinbei joins the Straw Hat crew occurs in Episode 980, during the Wano Arc. However, this decision is the culmination of a long and emotionally charged relationship with Luffy and his crew, which spans numerous arcs and key events.
One Piece (Credits: Oda Eiichiro)
Jinbei’s Journey to Becoming a Straw Hat
Introduction in the Impel Down Arc
Jinbei first appears in the Impel Down Arc (Episode 421), introduced as a prisoner in Level 6 of the notorious underwater prison. As a former ally of Whitebeard and a staunch advocate for peace between humans and fish-men, Jinbei demonstrates his honorable nature by helping Luffy escape and later assisting in the Summit War of Marineford.
Alliance in the Fish-Man Island Arc
The bond between Jinbei and Luffy deepens during the Fish-Man Island Arc (Episode 527 and onwards). Jinbei’s role as a mentor and protector to the island’s people highlights his commitment to justice and peace. In Episode 568, Jinbei turns down Luffy’s initial invitation to join the Straw Hats, stating that he has unfinished business and must sever ties with Big Mom before committing to the crew.
A Critical Role in the Whole Cake Island Arc
Jinbei’s loyalty is further cemented in the Whole Cake Island Arc. He plays a key role in helping Luffy and his friends escape from Big Mom’s territory, even risking his life to face the Yonko directly. In Episode 878, Jinbei announces his decision to officially leave Big Mom’s crew and fully commit to Luffy, declaring his loyalty in a moment that thrills fans. Despite his pledge, he stays behind to ensure the Straw Hats escape safely, delaying his official joining.
Reunion and Official Membership in the Wano Arc
The moment fans had been waiting for finally happens in Episode 980. Jinbei makes a dramatic entrance during the Straw Hats’ raid on Onigashima, arriving just in time to support his crewmates. His declaration as the crew’s helmsman and Luffy’s heartfelt welcome solidify his place as the tenth member of the Straw Hat Pirates.
One Piece (Credits: Oda Eiichiro)
Why Jinbei’s Addition Matters
Jinbei’s journey to becoming a Straw Hat is more than just an addition to the crew. His character represents the themes of unity and equality that lie at the heart of One Piece. As a fish-man and former Warlord, Jinbei’s presence brings not only strength but also wisdom and a deeper understanding of the world’s complexities.
In Episode 980, Jinbei’s long-awaited acceptance into the crew marks a milestone in One Piece history, symbolizing the bonds of trust and friendship that define the Straw Hat Pirates.
Gol D. Roger remains the ultimate pirate legend, commanding respect with unmatched Haki mastery (Photo: Roger of One Piece/Toei Animation)
Among the most formidable figures to traverse the Grand Line, Gol D. Roger stands unrivaled, with even the mightiest Devil Fruit users acknowledging his superior prowess. His exceptional mastery of Haki eclipsed every display of Conqueror’s Haki witnessed within the shōnen.
Among living pirates, Shanks demonstrates a level of skill closest to Roger’s, to the extent of replicating his former captain’s renowned Divine Departure technique, a blend of advanced Haki and swordsmanship.
Roger’s legendary journey continues to inspire a new generation of pirates, igniting dreams of freedom and conquest (Photo: Roger of One Piece/Toei Animation)
Despite Shanks’ remarkable proficiency, his dominance on the seas does not yet rival that of Roger. With Luffy’s meteoric rise as a pirate, the possibility of surpassing the former Pirate King looms closer than ever.
Gol D. Roger and Luffy’s Parallels
Roger commands respect universally among pirates, an achievement unmatched by any other. The similarities between Luffy and Roger frequently lead others to compare the two. Roger’s ideals resonate strongly, encouraging even the strongest characters to place their trust in Luffy.
Shanks entrusted Luffy with Roger’s straw hat after hearing echoes of the Pirate King’s ideals in Luffy’s words, even sacrificing his arm to save the young pirate.
Silvers Rayleigh, impressed by Luffy’s pursuit of freedom over conquest, guided him, solidifying parallels between the two. Luffy’s journey mirrors Roger’s, crafting deliberate connections between their legacies for the audience and characters alike.
Roger’s Legacy and Free Spirit
As his legend grew, Gol D. Roger became widely known as Gold Roger, distancing his name from the family of D. and the story’s broader mysteries. His motives for embarking on his journey remain partially concealed, though his actions reshaped the pirate world.
After surrendering to the World Government, Roger transformed his execution into an unforgettable moment, sparking a new pirate era. Instead of succumbing to illness, his declaration during the execution inspired countless souls to chase their dreams on the high seas.
The final island he named Laugh Tale, and the treasure it held—likely left for his successor—symbolized a pivotal call to adventure in shōnen storytelling.
The Great Pirate Era’s Beginning
Roger’s fateful actions birthed a tumultuous era, where his motives continue to stir curiosity. Though the One Piece was initially perceived as a mere collection of his wealth, the narrative reveals deeper intricacies tied to Joy Boy’s legacy.
Laugh Tale became a symbol of laughter and wonder, demonstrating that Roger’s treasures and discoveries extended far beyond material riches.
By leaving his legacy open to interpretation, he ignited a pursuit that transcended individual desires, inspiring generations of pirates to go on their own quests.
Roger’s Actions and their Consequences
As explained by Rayleigh, the Roger Pirates uncovered the world’s hidden truths but refrained from disrupting the established order, leaving the task to future generations.
Shanks’ sacrifice for Luffy highlights the enduring connection to Roger’s spirit and the call to adventure (Photo: Roger of One Piece/Toei Animation)
Roger’s decisions reflected an understanding of his limitations and his intent to pass on his will rather than impose drastic change. Unlike a revolutionary, Roger’s focus was on exploration and freedom, culminating in his unparalleled journey across the Grand Line.
His title as Pirate King arose naturally from his accomplishments rather than personal ambition, setting him apart from those who sought to dismantle oppressive systems.
Roger’s Pursuit of Freedom
Roger and Luffy share a kindred spirit, prioritizing freedom and adventure over domination. Although Roger achieved unparalleled feats, his primary goal remained the freedom to live and die on his terms.
Even the World Government failed to dictate his actions or tarnish his legacy, as Roger personified defiance against authority. He embodied the aim of a true pirate, charting his course while inspiring others to follow their dreams without succumbing to societal constraints.
Roger’s Influence in Anime
Few characters in shōnen rival Roger’s mythic status, his name evoking reverence and awe. Comparable figures such as Madara Uchiha from Naruto may possess immense power, but Roger’s impact extends beyond sheer might.
His legacy creates a profound emotional resonance, elevating him beyond conventional character archetypes. His declaration before his death not only launched the premise of One Piece but also established him as a figure whose influence shaped the narrative and inspired generations of fans.
The Depth of Roger’s Legacy
Creating a character as enduring as Gol D. Roger requires extraordinary narrative skill. While Luffy drives One Piece as its protagonist, Roger exists as a symbol of freedom and inspiration, embodying ideals that extend far beyond the story itself.
Luffy’s path to becoming the Pirate King follows Roger’s monumental legacy, cementing Roger’s role as a guiding force in the saga.
Without him, the narrative of One Piece and its richly developed world of characters, lore, and storytelling would not exist, solidifying Roger as one of the most impactful characters in the shōnen genre.
With Scarlet’s vibrant design and gripping narrative, fans are in for a mesmerizing journey (Photo: Scarlet/Studio Chizu)
One of the most highly regarded anime films ever made, The Girl Who Leapt Through Time, directed by Mamoru Hosoda, holds a special place in the hearts of fans who cherish time travel and romantic narratives. It has been quite some time since this iconic filmmaker debuted a new project.
Anime fans can look forward to an exciting announcement that has just been made. On December 23, 2024, during a presentation by Studio Chizu, Hosoda revealed details about his upcoming film, including a teaser visual and a slated release for winter 2025.
The countdown begins for Scarlet, where life and death intertwine in a beautifully crafted tale (Photo: Scarlet/Studio Chizu)
The film, titled Scarlet, is both written and directed by Hosoda, who originally conceived the story. It will follow the journey of the protagonist, a “strong princess who transcends time and space.” The newly revealed artwork features Scarlet, showcasing her with a sword and her distinctive reddish-pink, braided hair.
The choice of a winter release for Scarlet is somewhat unconventional, as all of Hosoda’s films released since The Girl Who Leapt Through Time—including Summer Wars, Wolf Children, The Boy and the Beast, Mirai, and the 2021 release Belle—have typically premiered in the summer months, usually in July.
In addition to Hosoda, producer Yuchiro Saito announced that the film will receive international distribution, with Toho handling releases in Japan and Sony Pictures managing the global distribution. It was also mentioned that Sony Pictures made a direct investment in Scarlet.
Describing the film, Hosoda stated that it will explore his most profound themes to date, aiming to “delve into life and death, expressing something universal that everyone experiences.”
The narrative of Scarlet is expected to combine elements of action and romance, presenting a visual style that is entirely original and separate from both traditional 2D and 3D animation. Reports suggest that Sony’s international distribution will introduce “a new form for Japanese animation.”
Every card played tells a story of laughter and heartache (Photo: Yu-Gi-Oh/Toei Animation)
Next year, fans of the Yu-Gi-Oh! franchise can look forward to a delightful surprise, as a remaster of a beloved series has been announced for April 2025. This release will coincide with the celebration of the series’ 25th anniversary, marking the original show’s debut in late 2004.
The beloved Yu-Gi-Oh! GX, which aired from October 2004 to March 2008, is set to receive a remastered edition that will be broadcast on TV Tokyo this April, though details regarding international airing remain unconfirmed.
Remastered GX series that promises to reignite the spirit of Duel Monsters (Photo: Yu-Gi-Oh/Toei Animation)
KENN, the voice actor who portrayed series protagonist Jaden Yuki, expressed his excitement about the announcement: “Thanks to everyone supporting me, I’ve been able to consistently face and play Jaden Yuki for almost half my life.
As I gain more experience, the more I realize how incredible all the staff and cast were at the time! Congratulations again on the remastered version! Gotcha! That was a fun duel!”
He also had a message for the fans, stating, “Yugi Muto and friends built Duel Monsters. This has a different charm from the first generation; there are lots of laughs, tears, and variety in the world of GX, so please enjoy it!”
On December 20, the official X (formerly Twitter) account for Yu-Gi-Oh! shared the news, and the popular anime streaming platform Crunchyroll followed with additional updates about the franchise.
They announced that a monthly continuation of Konami’s Yu-Gi-Oh! CARD GAME: THE CHRONICLES promotional anime shorts will start airing on the official YouTube channel during the same month.
Currently, Crunchyroll streams all 180 episodes of the original Yu-Gi-Oh! GX anime series, describing it as follows: “Set several years after the previous Yu-Gi-Oh! series, GX follows a new generation of duelists at the prestigious Duel Academy—a highly competitive boarding school where pencils and books have been replaced by Duel Disks and monster cards!
Still, it’s not just about making the grade for these up-and-coming students – it’s about becoming the next King of Games!” It remains to be seen whether the newly remastered episodes of GX will be available on the streaming platform in the future.
Isekai fans rejoice as Ishura returns for a thrilling second season in January (Photo: Hit Isekai Anime/WIT Studio and Warner Bros. Japan)
The year 2024 has been a great time for fans of isekai anime, and anticipation continues to build for the upcoming January release of a series as it returns for its second season.
Fans of the hit isekai series Ishura can look forward to its highly anticipated return to Hulu in January 2025, when Season 2 will debut. According to the streaming service’s schedule for January, Ishura Season 2 will be available starting January 8, 2025.
Isekai fans can’t miss the return of Ishura as it explores power and morality in a charming new season (Photo: Hit Isekai Anime/WIT Studio and Warner Bros. Japan)
Since its original premiere on January 3, 2024, Hulu, along with Disney+, has been the only major streaming platform in the U.S. to offer the show.
Initially based on a light novel series by Keiso, Ishura is an action-fantasy narrative that centers on a group of demigods known as “Shuras,” who are competing for power in the wake of the Demon King’s defeat.
Among the challengers are formidable swordsmen, gladiators, mages, and various “heroes,” each vying for the title of “True Hero.” As they battle for supremacy, they must also confront their internal conflicts and distorted moralities.
Renowned for its intricate world-building and exploration of dark themes such as power, corruption, and moral ambiguity, Keiso’s light novel series garnered a loyal following and eventually inspired a manga adaptation, which has been serialized in Kodansha’s Monthly Shōnen Magazine since 2021.
The anime adaptation of Ishura was produced through a collaboration between animation studios Passione (known for High School DxD: Hero and Citrus) and Sanzigen (famous for Arslan Senki and Black Rock Shooter), with Season 1 launching in January 2024.
Critics have offered mixed reviews regarding the series; while many commend its battle sequences and strong opening, others argue that the complex ensemble cast and a decline in world-building in later episodes make the narrative challenging to follow.
Although Ishura is geared toward an older audience that enjoys darker action themes, it has clearly established a dedicated fan base on Hulu, attracting both original fans and new viewers alike. Currently, Ishura Season 1 is available for exclusive streaming on Hulu/Disney+, with Season 2 set to premiere on January 8, 2025.
Excitement builds as Rascal Does Not Dream finally comes to life with its anime adaptation on Hulu (Photo: Rascal Does Not Dream/CloverWorks)
Since its serialization began in 2014, Rascal Does Not Dream has remained a remarkably successful light novel series, culminating in its conclusion in October 2024. Fans now have the exciting opportunity to watch the anime adaptation on one of the largest streaming platforms.
In 2025, Hulu will premiere Rascal Does Not Dream of Bunny Girl Senpai, marking the first anime adaptation in the franchise. This release coincides with the debut of the next anime season. With the source material recently completed, it’s an ideal time for both new viewers and longtime fans to catch up on the series.
Anime lovers rejoice as Hulu brings Rascal Does Not Dream of Bunny Girl Senpai to your screens in 2025 (Photo: Rascal Does Not Dream/CloverWorks)
Beginning January 20, Rascal Does Not Dream of Bunny Girl Senpai will be available for streaming on Hulu. The platform will offer both the English dub and subtitled versions, providing options for viewers to enjoy the series in their preferred language.
Released in 2018 and animated by CloverWorks (known for Spy x Family and My Dress-Up Darling), the supernatural romantic drama consists of 13 episodes that adapt the first five volumes of the Rascal Does Not Dream light novel series.
This was followed by a movie the next year, along with adaptations for Rascal Does Not Dream of a Sister Venturing Out and Rascal Does Not Dream of a Knapsack Kid, which featured the same voice cast as the anime series and covered additional light novel volumes.
The Rascal Does Not Dream series encompasses a total of 15 light novel volumes, with the final installment released on October 10, 2024. Additionally, a manga adaptation has been ongoing since 2015, one year after the novels debuted, with 11 volumes currently available.
The next anime adaptation, scheduled for 2025, will be Rascal Does Not Dream of Santa Claus, which will cover the entirety of the 13th light novel volume of the same name, while also incorporating content from Volumes 10, 11, and 12 (the “University Student” arc) that were not included in the latest film.
Although the exact premiere date for this season remains uncertain, viewers can look forward to enjoying the first season of Rascal Does Not Dream of Bunny Girl Senpai on Hulu in January.
Celebrate the Year of the Snake with exclusive Boa Hancock postcards at One Piece Mugiwara stores (Photo: One Piece/Toei Animation)
As 2025 approaches, fans of the One Piece franchise can look forward to celebrating the Year of the Snake in the Zodiac. To honor this occasion, a One Piece store is offering fans an exciting prize featuring one of the series’ beloved characters.
An official One Piece shopping center will provide postcards of Boa Hancock to customers—though they come at a cost. Available for a limited time while supplies last, this promotion highlights the perfect character for the celebration.
The Year of the Snake brings a special treat for One Piece fans with limited-edition Boa Hancock postcards (Photo: One Piece/Toei Animation)
With grand plans for the brand in the upcoming year, this initiative serves as a fantastic way for fans to kick off 2025 on the right note—or should we say, the right scale. The Boa Hancock giveaway will take place at One Piece Mugiwara stores in Japan, showcasing an exclusive item that fans will surely appreciate.
Customers visiting the store will receive complimentary postcards featuring the esteemed honorary Straw Hat Crew member Boa Hancock, commemorating the Year of the Snake. To qualify for this offer, shoppers must spend 2,000 yen, equivalent to just under US$13.
One of the postcards showcases a striking image of Boa Hancock in a dynamic pose, perfectly aligning with her title as the Snake Princess. Given that her name is also derived from a type of snake, it’s fitting that she represents the Year of the Snake rather than characters like Nami or Luffy.
While the postcards will be available until supplies run out, the exact quantity has not been disclosed. Fans wishing to collect multiple cards must complete separate transactions exceeding 2,000 yen.
The campaign launches on January 1, 2025, ushering in the New Year with excitement. Additionally, customers who make purchases online can also receive these postcards, provided their orders meet the spending requirements.
One Piece continues to stand as one of the largest anime and manga brands in the 2020s, and 2025 will also see the return of Netflix’s successful live-action adaptation of the series, although the casting for Boa Hancock remains unannounced.
Eternal Slumber Returns In Arise Webtoon (Photo: Eternal Slumber/Daz 3D
The latest character reveal in Solo Leveling: Arise features another poignant example of the devastating Eternal Slumber disease, particularly affecting the character of Sung Jinwoo’s mother.
Netmarble’s official forum announced the introduction of a new webtoon release, centering on Shimizu Akari, the original Hunter. This touching narrative elaborates on the strong connection between the Shimizu sisters, especially the younger sister, Himari, who suffers from the Eternal Slumber illness.
Epic battles and emotional stakes that make Solo Leveling (Photo: Solo Leveling/A-1 Pictures and Aniplex)
The story uncovers as Akari secretly takes Himari out of the hospital for a day of adventure, finally revealing the tragic circumstances surrounding Himari’s affliction. Readers can explore this story in detail below.
According to her Hunter Analysis File, Akari wields light-based healing powers and is an S-Rank Healer from the Japanese Blade Guild. She is voiced by Suzie Yeung, who is celebrated for her performances in roles such as Vladilena Milizé from 86, Makima in Chainsaw Man, Ranma in Ranma 1/2, and Sumi Sakurasawa from Rent-a-Girlfriend.
While Akari’s character is portrayed as excessively focused on money, charging her guild members for healing services, readers will likely grasp her motivations more deeply after experiencing her storyline in the webtoon.
Akari’s introduction is part of a broader series of original characters from Solo Leveling: Arise, which also includes well-established figures like Isla Wright and Thomas Andre, one of the strongest characters in the series.
Recently, the cinematic trailer for Solo Leveling: Arise highlighted the intense conflict between Beru and Jinwoo, depicting the brutal assault of ants on humans.
An epic battle sequence between these two characters also featured prominently. Solo Leveling: Arise adapts the original manhwa, with an anime series from A-1 Pictures also in the works, as its second season’s release date was confirmed this week.
Crunchyroll will stream the upcoming season as part of its Winter 2025 anime lineup, which features other titles such as the second cours of Shangri-La Frontier Season 2, Re:Zero Season 3, The Apothecary Diaries Season 2, Dr. Stone: Science Future, and The 100 Girlfriends Who Really, Really, Really Love You Season 2.
The official synopsis for Solo Leveling states: “They say whatever doesn’t kill you makes you stronger, but that’s not the case for the world’s weakest hunter, Sung Jinwoo.
After being brutally slaughtered by monsters in a high-ranking dungeon, Jinwoo came back with the System, a program only he could see, that’s leveling him up in every way. Now, he’s inspired to discover the secrets behind his powers and the dungeon that spawned them.”
Toyotarou’s latest drawing sparks joy as it highlights Toriyama’s favorite character from the charming COWA (Photo: Dragon Ball Artwork/Toei Animation)
Toyotarou, the official artist for Dragon Ball Super, recently revealed a new piece in his “Toyotarou Tries to Draw” illustration series. This artwork pays homage to Akira Toriyama, highlighting his favorite self-created character as a heartfelt tribute to the late manga legend.
According to the Dragon Ball official website, Toyotarou’s latest drawing focuses on COWA, a 14-chapter manga serialized in Weekly Shonen Jump between 1997 and 1998. The story features Mako Maruyama, a former sumo wrestler with a striking appearance who leads the central group of characters.
In a beautiful homage to Toriyama, Toyotarou captures the aim of friendship in his COWA illustration (Photo: Dragon Ball Artwork/Toei Animation)
Though not as globally recognized as Goku, Maruyama holds a special place as Toriyama’s favorite protagonist. The illustration also includes Paifu and Jose, Maruyama’s playful companions. Readers can view Toyotarou’s artwork below.
Toyotarou Revisits Toriyama’s Unique Picture Book-Style Manga
Unlike Toriyama’s earlier works, COWA adopted a “picture book” narrative style, as noted by the Dragon Ball website. Its debut chapter was fully colored, an unusual feature in serialized manga.
The story extend in a world inhabited by humans, ghosts, and monsters, centering on a mysterious illness called “Monster Flu.” Paifu, a mischievous half-vampire, half-werekoala boy, embarks on a quest to find a cure, which can only be created by a witch residing atop Horned-Owl Mountain.
Accompanying him are his friends, Jose and Arpon. Maruyama’s involvement begins when Paifu and his group enlist his help for their mission. Once a celebrated sumo wrestler, Maruyama became an outcast after an accidental death during a match.
Paifu deceives him by promising a fictitious one-million yen reward for his assistance. Although he later discovers the ruse, Maruyama remains committed to the group and helps them complete their journey.
Anticipation Grows for New Dragon Ball Super Content
Toyotarou has largely refrained from releasing new Dragon Ball manga since March 2024, apart from occasional teaser illustrations and spinoffs. However, fans won’t have to wait much longer.
Jump Festa 2025 confirmed the release of a new one-shot on Feb. 20, featuring Goten, Trunks, and a lesser-known character called the Clean God. While the announcement is promising for Dragon Ball Super’s future, V-Jump has not yet disclosed when the series will resume its regular monthly serialization.
Fans of Middle-earth can now experience The War of the Rohirrim from the comfort of home (Photo: Scene from War of the Rohirrim/New Line Cinema, Warner Bros)
The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim has faced challenges following its initial release. Once a highly anticipated anime film inspired by Warner Bros.
Discovery’s live-action adaptations of the Lord of the Rings saga, it will soon be available on various digital platforms due to its lackluster performance at the box office.
Deadline reports that The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim is set to be released digitally across major platforms, including Amazon Prime Video, AppleTV, and Fandango at Home.
From cinemas to streaming, The War of the Rohirrim keeps the spirit of Middle-earth alive for audiences (Photo: Scene from War of the Rohirrim/New Line Cinema, Warner Bros)
This release is scheduled just 14 days after its theatrical debut on December 13, 2024. Marking the first new entry in the Lord of the Rings franchise in a decade, The War of the Rohirrim opened to mainly negative reviews and a disappointing box office result.
Despite a reported budget of only $30 million, excluding marketing costs, The War of the Rohirrim struggled to attract audiences in North America. During its opening weekend, the film secured the #5 spot, garnering a mere $4.6 million from 2,602 theaters.
Even with the strong brand recognition associated with the Lord of the Rings, The War of the Rohirrim failed to surpass Kraven the Hunter for the top position at the box office, despite that film’s poor reviews and minimal marketing efforts, which contribute to its reputation as the final live-action Spider-Man spinoff from Sony.
While Kraven the Hunter holds a rotten score of 16%, The War of the Rohirrim received slightly better ratings from critics, though not by much. Directed by Kenji Kamiyama (known for Blood: The Last Vampire and Ghost in the Shell: SAC_2045 Sustainable War), the anime film received a 47% rotten score on Rotten Tomatoes.
Some of the more critical reviews labeled it as “a rushed money grab” and “a corporate wolf in sheep’s clothing.” Conversely, CBR offered a more positive take, commending the animation and the portrayal of its female lead, while also acknowledging concerns regarding its lengthy runtime.
However, the film’s rapid production process—reportedly expedited by WBD to maintain their rights to the Lord of the Rings franchise—has fueled accusations of it being a cash grab.
Drawing from an underdeveloped idea in J.R.R. Tolkien’s works allows The War of the Rohirrim some creative freedom, yet it also offers WBD the flexibility to shelve the project while they contemplate future directions for their live-action adaptations, including The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum, set to release in 2026. The anime film does not alter any existing lore established by Peter Jackson’s
