Exciting news for fans of classic manga and anime! Space Adventure Cobra, the iconic series created by Buichi Terasawa, is set to return to the screen in a brand new animated production. French animation studio Mangouste Anim has acquired the rights to produce a series based on the legendary space pirate’s adventures. The announcement was made at the Annecy International Animated Film Festival in France, generating buzz among animation enthusiasts and longtime followers of Cobra.
Cobra’s Animated Comeback: What We Know So Far
While details are currently limited, the news has already sparked considerable excitement. Here’s what we know:
- Production Studio: Mangouste Anim, a French animation studio founded in 2020 and based in Paris, is at the helm. The company has experience in production, distribution, and music publishing. They recently distributed the anime Grendizer U in France in July 2024.
- Format and Release: Specifics about the format (whether it will be a television series, OVA, or film) and the release timing are still under wraps. However, Animation Business Journal reports that Mangouste Anim has stated, “Cobra will return to the big screen,” suggesting a possible theatrical release.
- Teaser Visual: A teaser visual for the project has been released, offering a glimpse of what’s to come.
- Source Material: The new animation will be based on Buichi Terasawa’s Space Adventure Cobra manga, which ran from 1978 to 1984.
A French Studio Takes on a Japanese Icon
Mangouste Anim’s acquisition of the rights to Space Adventure Cobra marks an interesting collaboration between a French animation studio and a classic Japanese property. The series enjoys a strong following in France, thanks to its broadcast in the “Récré A2” children’s program in 1985.
Caroline Cornot, CEO of Mangouste Anim, is also the creator of Trimaros, an animated series about sailing, which indicates the studio’s commitment to animation and storytelling.
Space Adventure Cobra: A Legacy of Adventure
Space Adventure Cobra is a science fiction manga series written and illustrated by Buichi Terasawa. The story follows Cobra, a daring space pirate with a Psycho gun implanted in his left arm. He is constantly on the run from the law and various nefarious organizations due to his mysterious past.
Manga and Anime Origins
The Cobra manga was originally serialized in Shueisha’s Weekly Shonen Jump magazine from 1978 to 1984. Its blend of science fiction, western, and action elements quickly gained popularity.
The manga’s success led to several adaptations:
- 1982 Film: Space Adventure Cobra: The Movie was released in July 1982.
- 1982-1983 TV Series: Space Cobra, a 31-episode anime television series, aired from October 1982 to May 1983.
- OVAs and More: The franchise has spawned numerous OVAs (Original Video Animations) and a 2010 anime series, expanding on Cobra’s universe and adventures.
Story and Characters
Space Adventure Cobra presents a blend of genres, mixing science fiction, space opera, action, and even touches of humor. The world is filled with memorable characters and thrilling adventures:
- Cobra: The protagonist, a charismatic and skilled space pirate with a cybernetic arm that houses the powerful Psycho gun.
- Lady Armaroid: Cobra’s loyal and capable partner, often providing support and expertise during missions.
- Crystal Bowie: A recurring antagonist, known for his unique appearance and deadly abilities.
- The Royal Sisters: Enigmatic characters whose fates are often intertwined with Cobra’s adventures.
Adaptations and Availability
Over the years, Space Adventure Cobra has seen various releases and adaptations:
- Anime Series: Discotek Media has released the television anime on Blu-ray Disc, ensuring fans can enjoy the classic series in high quality.
- Streaming: RetroCrush, a streaming service from Digital Media Rights, added the television anime in 2023, making it accessible to a wider audience.
- Home Video: Discotek Media has released the Space Adventure Cobra anime film on DVD, Blu-ray Disc, and Ultra-High Definition (UHD) 4K Blu-ray Disc.
- Games: There have been several video game adaptations of Cobra, including an upcoming Metroidvania-style game titled Space Adventure Cobra: The Awakening.
A Metroidvania Game on the Horizon
Game studio Microids will release Magic Pockets’ Space Adventure Cobra – The Awakening side-scrolling game for PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, and PC via Steam.
Space Adventure Cobra – The Awakening is scheduled to launch on August 26, 2025, and will be available on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch, and PC.
Other Ventures by Mangouste Anim
Besides Space Adventure Cobra, Mangouste Anim is also working on other projects, including:
Trimaros
Trimaros is an original 26 x 26 min. animated series about the magic of sailing. DADA! Animation is assisting in visual development and producing a teaser for the show, which also aims to raise awareness about the importance of protecting our oceans with young viewers.
With the support of the Beneteau Foundation, Trimaros was created by Mangouste Anim with the intention of inspiring children aged 6-10 with the thrill of seafaring, making the pastime more accessible and offering them the chance to embark on heroic adventures across five oceans and iconic bays around the world.
The official synopsis of the series reads: 15-year-old Alizée Keravel is one of the best skippers in the world. Aboard the Trimaros, her futuristic convertible boat, the young girl sets off on the Wind Ocean Race, the greatest sailing race of all time. Alizée’s goal? Win the race to save her family and her boat: the Trimaros.
Buichi Terasawa: The Creator
Buichi Terasawa was a Japanese manga artist best known for his creation Space Adventure Cobra. He sadly passed away in September 2023.
Terasawa’s work was characterized by its dynamic action, science fiction elements, and distinctive character designs. He was a pioneer in the use of computer graphics in manga.
A Promising Future for Cobra
The acquisition of Space Adventure Cobra by Mangouste Anim promises to bring the classic series to a new generation of fans while honoring its legacy. With a new animated series on the horizon and a video game in development, the future looks bright for the iconic space pirate. As more details emerge, fans can anticipate a thrilling return to the world of Cobra and his unforgettable adventures.
