Key Facts
Production on a new television anime for the Higurashi: When They Cry franchise has been green-lit, as announced during the live-streamed 20th anniversary special for the television anime on Sunday. The announcement was accompanied by a visual featuring the tagline: 'Welcome back, everyone.'
Details of the Announcement
The new anime project was revealed during a special event celebrating two decades of the anime adaptation. While specific details about the plot, staff, or release date remain under wraps, the confirmation has excited fans worldwide. The franchise originally began as a visual novel series, with the first chapter launched by 07th Expansion at Comiket in Japan in 2002.
History of the Franchise
The Higurashi: When They Cry series is known for its psychological horror and mystery elements, revolving around murders that coincide with an annual festival in a quiet rural village. The original visual novel was followed by several adaptations:
- The first TV anime series aired for 26 episodes in 2006.
- A sequel, Higurashi: When They Cry – Kai, aired for 24 episodes in 2007.
- In 2014, a new visual novel titled Higurashi: When They Cry – Hō was released for PC in Japan as a 'thank you' to fans.
- Both anime series were released on DVD in 2007-2008 and later on Blu-ray Disc and DVD in 2016.
- A recent TV anime, Higurashi: When They Cry – Gou, premiered in October 2020, followed by Higurashi: When They Cry – Sotsu in July 2021.
Impact and What Readers Should Know
The announcement of a new TV anime marks a significant milestone for the franchise, which has maintained a dedicated fanbase for over two decades. The series' blend of horror, suspense, and emotional storytelling has made it a classic in the anime community. Fans can expect further updates as production progresses.
FAQ
When was the new Higurashi anime announced?
The new TV anime was announced during the live-streamed 20th anniversary special on Sunday.
What is the tagline on the visual?
The tagline reads: 'Welcome back, everyone.'
When did the original visual novel debut?
The first chapter of the visual novel was launched in 2002 at Comiket in Japan.
How many episodes did the first anime series have?
The first TV anime series aired for 26 episodes in 2006, followed by a 24-episode sequel in 2007.