The highly anticipated “Dark Machine the Animation Series,” a new original anime part of a larger cross-media project, has officially unveiled its main cast, key staff, and confirmed its broadcast debut on Fuji TV in 2026. The announcement solidifies the upcoming series as a major entry in the mecha and esports anime landscape.
Premiere Date and Broadcast Information
“Dark Machine the Animation” is slated to begin its broadcast run in 2026 on Fuji TV, marking its presence on a prominent Japanese television network. The anime is designed to be released simultaneously with its accompanying Web3 game, which is planned for global distribution. This synchronized release aims to offer a comprehensive experience within the “Dark Machine” universe, blurring the lines between interactive gaming and narrative storytelling.
Unveiling the “Dark Machine” Voice Cast
A roster of acclaimed voice actors has been confirmed to bring the core characters of “Dark Machine the Animation” to life. Leading the cast is:
- Kensho Ono as the protagonist, Kairi.
- Miyuki Sawashiro as Rudra.
- Riho Sugiyama as Bran (also noted as Blanc in some reports).
- Saya Aizawa as Isana.
- Yuichi Nakamura as Ajima (also referred to as Majima).
- Koki Uchiyama as Shin.
These performers are set to voice characters navigating a near-future Japan where the esports phenomenon “Dark Machine” holds significant influence.
Key Creative Staff and Animation Studio
The production of “Dark Machine the Animation” is being helmed by a team of industry veterans, ensuring a high-quality visual and narrative experience.
- Creative Producer: Goro Taniguchi, celebrated for his directorial work on iconic series like Code Geass and ONE PIECE FILM RED, is serving as the creative producer. Taniguchi’s involvement highlights the project’s ambition to merge gaming potential with compelling anime narratives.
- Director: Kazuo Terada (also cited as Kazumi Terada) is directing the series.
- Lead Mecha Designer: Hidetaka Tenjin, renowned for his intricate mechanical designs in the Macross series, is the lead mecha designer, promising detailed and impactful mecha action.
- Animation Production: Production +h, the studio behind acclaimed works such as The Orbital Children and Dead Dead Demon’s Dededede Destruction, is handling the animation production.
- Series Composition & Script: Team Carbuncle, a writing collective comprising Takaaki Suzuki, Tatsuhiko Urahata, Atsuo Ishino, and Kento Sata, is responsible for the series composition and scripts.
- Music: Rock musician and producer SUGIZO will be composing the anime’s score.
- Main Character Designer: Ko Yoshinari has been credited as the main character designer.
Fuji TV Network Inc. has also joined as a partner, leading the newly established anime production committee.
The World of “Dark Machine”: Esports, Mechs, and a Future Dystopia
“Dark Machine” is envisioned as a multifaceted cross-media project, combining a video game with the upcoming anime series. The narrative unfolds in a near-future Japan, specifically in the Chiba region, which has been geographically altered by a sudden rise in sea levels. Within this setting, the globally popular esports club “Dark Machine” plays a central role.
The story follows protagonist Kairi as he strives to reach the pinnacle of the “Dark Machine” esports world. The game itself is described as a Web3 “asynchronous big team arena shooter” featuring destructible mechs and maps set across two parallel universes: The Light and The Dark. It incorporates blockchain technology with in-game currency and NFT assets. The broader “DARK MACHINE” project explores a world where a fierce battle for energy unfolds in “The Dark,” an enigmatic realm where human survival is impossible, transforming factory robots into formidable fighting mechs.
Initial Reveal and Promotional Materials
The “Dark Machine” anime project was first announced at San Diego Comic-Con 2024, generating significant buzz. A key visual featuring Kairi and other characters, along with a teaser trailer showcasing Kairi fighting alongside his friends, have already been released, offering a glimpse into the series’ futuristic action and character dynamics. Concept art for the mechs Kairi utilizes in the “Dark Machine” game was also unveiled.
