The highly anticipated television anime adaptation of Yūki Dōmoto’s romantic comedy manga, “I Want to End This Love Game” (Aishiteru Game o Owarasetai), has revealed its main cast, key staff, and an official April 2026 debut. The announcement was made through the anime’s official website, also unveiling a new teaser visual for the series.
Stellar Cast to Bring “Love Game” Characters to Life
Leading the cast are two prominent voice actors set to portray the central duo caught in a playful, yet increasingly sincere, battle of affection. Kaito Ishikawa will voice Yukiya Asagi, while Miku Itō will take on the role of Miku Sakura.
- Yukiya Asagi: Portrayed by Kaito Ishikawa (known for roles such as Jin in DAN DA DAN).
- Miku Sakura: Portrayed by Miku Itō (known for roles such as Miku in The Quintessential Quintuplets).
Their performances are expected to capture the intricate blend of teasing and genuine emotion that defines the characters’ unique relationship.
Experienced Production Team at Felix Film
Helming the adaptation is a seasoned production team. Azuma Tani, recognized for directing works like Thermae Romae and Waka Okami wa Shōgakusei! TV, will direct the series at Felix Film. The studio Felix Film is known for its animation work on various projects.
The main staff includes:
- Director: Azuma Tani
- Series Composition and Script: Keiichirō Ōchi (known for Girlfriend, Girlfriend and Go, Go, Loser Ranger!), who will both write and oversee the series scripts.
- Character Designs: Yūki Fukuchi (Saving 80,000 Gold in Another World for My Retirement, Plunderer) is responsible for adapting Dōmoto’s character art for animation.
- Music Composition: Akito Matsuda (Sound! Euphonium franchise, Non Non Biyori franchise) will compose the musical score.
- Animation Studio: Felix Film
The Premise of “I Want to End This Love Game”
The original manga by Yūki Dōmoto centers on childhood friends Yukiya Asagi and Miku Sakura, who initiated a “love game” in sixth grade. The objective: to make the other person blush by saying “I love you,” with the first to get flustered losing. Four years later, as high school students, the game continues. Despite the playful banter, both Yukiya and Miku have secretly developed genuine romantic feelings for each other. However, their fear of confessing and potentially losing their long-standing game, and perhaps their friendship, prevents either from making the first move. The series explores their romantic comedy as they navigate this delicate balance of a deepening relationship disguised as a game.
Manga’s Serialization and English Release
Yūki Dōmoto’s “I Want to End This Love Game” manga began its serialization on Shogakukan’s online platform Sunday Webry in December 2021. Viz Media is releasing the manga in English, allowing international readers to follow the unfolding love game between Yukiya and Miku. The manga has garnered a significant following, with its unique premise and charming characters contributing to its popularity.
Fans can look forward to the anime’s premiere in April 2026, anticipating how this beloved romantic comedy will translate to the screen.
