Hey, everyone!

Here’s what’s going in the world of Anime today:

• Solo Leveling Surpasses Attack on Titan, Becoming the Sixth-Most Popular Anime on Crunchyroll

• Hello Kitty Celebrates 50 Years with Adorable Crocs

• Marking Milestones: My Hero Academia's 10th Anniversary Celebrated with Sentimental Live-Action Film

• Hatsune Miku Joins Magic: The Gathering with Sakura Superstar Secret Lair Set

Meme of the Day

From Web Novel to Anime Sensation: Solo Leveling's Rise to Crunchyroll's Top Ranks

In January 2024, Solo Leveling hit the screens on Crunchyroll and quickly became a favorite among anime fans. Since its drop, it's soared to become the sixth most-watched series on the platform, even overtaking iconic shows like Attack on Titan.

Just a couple of months ago, Reddit's anime enthusiasts compiled a list of the top 300 anime on Crunchyroll, ranking them based on viewer ratings. Solo Leveling wasn't far behind, sitting snugly in seventh place, just under Attack on Titan. Considering Attack on Titan's long-established fan base, this was quite the achievement. Since then, Solo Leveling has risen even further, bumping Attack on Titan down a notch and claiming the sixth spot.

Unlike most popular anime, Solo Leveling didn't start as a manga but as a web novel by South Korean author Chu-Gong. It was later picked up by D&C Media and published as a novel in 2021. The story then transitioned into a popular manhwa by Jang Sung-Rak. It's set in a world plagued by monsters from alternate dimensions called "dungeons."

If you're unfamiliar, the story follows Jinwoo Sung, who dreams of becoming a "Hunter" to defend humanity. After a devastating dungeon raid, Jinwoo gains the ability to level up infinitely, setting off on a journey to uncover the source of his newfound power. The anime adaptation premiered on January 7th, 2024, co-produced by A-1 Pictures and Crunchyroll.

Solo Leveling has garnered a dedicated following, but it's not without its controversies. It's darker and more intense than typical shonen anime, often featuring brutal scenes. Some critics have accused it of lacking originality, particularly in Japan. Despite this, its popularity on Crunchyroll demonstrates its global appeal.

You can catch the Solo Leveling anime on Crunchyroll and Prime Video, and the English version of the web novel is available from Yen Press.

Hello Kitty Celebrates 50 Years with Adorable Crocs

Our favorite cutie's golden anniversary continues to produce new merchandise collaborations for the fans. Sanrio has launched seven new styles in collaboration with Crocs, priced from $44.99 for the Hello Kitty and Friends x Crocs Toddler Classic Clog to $99.99 for the Hello Kitty x Crocs Adult Siren Heeled Clog. Additionally, fans can customize their clogs with Jibbitz for an extra $19.99. When purchasing from the Sanrio site, you can enjoy a 10% discount on your first order.

My Hero Academia Marks 10th Anniversary with Sentimental Live-Action Video

On July 7th, 2024, My Hero Academia will mark its 10th anniversary. To celebrate this milestone, the franchise has released a touching live-action video titled Succession for fans worldwide.

Uploaded on the official Shonen Jump YouTube channel, Succession is an 11-minute film that follows the life of a boy named Haruto. Haruto shares his struggles and challenges throughout the video, from failing in Japanese football to experiencing heartbreak. He records himself to find solace in difficult times, drawing inspiration from the wise words of All Might.

The film references real-world events, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, which caused the world to be isolated for three years. As Haruto grows into a young adult, he gains a new perspective on life, supported by his younger brother. It's revealed that Haruto's motivational videos were made for his brother to guide and encourage him in his absence.

As My Hero Academia reaches its 10th anniversary, it's not just a celebration of its longevity and global success but also a pivotal moment in its storyline. With the manga likely approaching its conclusion in 2024, each new chapter brings the series closer to its planned ending.

Despite the manga's conclusion on the horizon, fans have more to look forward to. Season 7 of the anime is set to premiere on May 4th, and a new animated movie will debut in August in Japan. Watch the entire Succession film here.

Hatsune Miku Joins Magic: The Gathering with Sakura Superstar Secret Lair Set

The Sakura Superstar variants are the first of four releases celebrating different seasons, and they're hitting shelves on May 13th. This limited-run set for Magic: The Gathering features six updated card designs in both Japanese and English. Among the cards receiving a makeover are "Shelter," "Chandra's Ignition," "Harmonize," "Azusa, Lost but Seeking," "Feather, the Redeemed," and "Inspiring Vantage."

Keep an eye out for more drops throughout the year!

Did you know?

Hatsune Miku's name has musical significance.

Her name originates from the Japanese words "hatsu" (meaning first), "ne" (meaning sound), and "miku" (meaning future), collectively symbolizing "the first sound of the future."

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