"VIZ Media Announces Black Torch Anime Production"

Exciting news for anime fans: VIZ Media has officially announced that a Black Torch anime is in production, and IGN is thrilled to share the first exclusive trailer. The announcement was made at VIZ Media's Emerald City Comic Con panel, where fans got a glimpse of Jiro Azuma in his stealth uniform, accompanied by his powerful mononoke, Rago, perched on his shoulder. The trailer also teases a mysterious dark figure reflected in the cityscape, hinting at the dangers that lie ahead.

For those new to the series, Black Torch was created by Tsuyoshi Yakaki and originally serialized in Jump SQ. and Shonen Jump+ from 2017 to 2018. Here's the official synopsis of the upcoming anime to bring you up to speed:

"A new era of ninja battles begins," the synopsis states. "Hailing from a long line of ninja, Jiro has been brought up by his grandfather in the ancient warrior art of the shinobi. Jiro also possesses a unique ability to communicate with the animal world. However, his life takes a dramatic turn after a mysterious encounter in the forest with an injured black cat named Rago. But there's more to Rago than meets the eye...

"It turns out the 'ordinary' cat is actually the legendary Black Star of Doom, a mononoke. As dark spirits emerge from the shadows to exploit Rago's immense powers, the covert Bureau of Espionage is ready to intervene. With everyone having their own motives regarding Rago’s abilities, Jiro and Rago are prepared to face the challenges ahead. A thrilling shinobi battle between boy and mononoke is about to ignite!"

For a special treat, check out this drawing by Takaki from the panel, celebrating this significant milestone for Black Torch. (Link will be added when available.)

Tsuyoshi Takaki shared his thoughts on the adaptation, stating, "I’ve been supervising the settings and storyboards, and I feel it’s been recreated into something even better, while still fully respecting the original story. A new BLACK TORCH has been brought to life, now with voices, sounds, movement, and color."

For more anime excitement, explore our list of favorite anime from 2024, the most anticipated anime releases for 2025, and our top 25 anime of all time.