Crunchyroll has expanded its anime catalog with the addition of the “Sk8 the Infinity EXTRA PART” OVA and the classic “Hiwou War Chronicles” anime series. These additions cater to a wide range of anime fans, offering both new content and a nostalgic trip back to one of Studio Bones’ earliest works.
‘Sk8 the Infinity EXTRA PART’ OVA Now Streaming
The highly anticipated “Sk8 the Infinity EXTRA PART” OVA is now available for streaming on Crunchyroll, coinciding with its physical release in Japan. This new installment revisits beloved characters from the popular Aniplex and Studio Bones anime series, offering fans a chance to reconnect with Reki, Langa, and the rest of the skateboarding crew.
Four New Short Stories
The OVA comprises four distinct short stories, each focusing on different characters and relationships:
- “Ame to Neko Konbini Aisu Soda Aji”: Centered on Reki, Langa, and Miya, this story explores their friendship and dynamics.
- “Maji de Maji ni Nareru Koto”: This story highlights the rivalry and camaraderie between Joe and Cherry.
- “Morning Routine”: This segment delves into the daily lives of Adam and Tadashi, revealing their hidden moments and complex relationship.
- “Ganbare, Hiromi-chan!”: Focusing on Shadow, this slice-of-life story showcases his kind personality as he balances his nighttime persona with his daytime job at a flower shop.
Where to Watch
The “Sk8 the Infinity EXTRA PART” OVA is available on Crunchyroll, alongside the first season of “Sk8 the Infinity.” A second season has been announced in Japan, with a release date yet to be confirmed.
About ‘Sk8 the Infinity’
“Sk8 the Infinity” follows high school students Reki and Langa as they become immersed in the world of “S,” a dangerous and secretive downhill skateboarding race. As Langa, a transfer student, discovers his talent for skateboarding, he and Reki navigate thrilling skateboard battles and explore their unlimited potential.
‘Hiwou War Chronicles’ Joins Crunchyroll’s Lineup
In celebration of Studio Bones’ 25th anniversary, Crunchyroll has added “Hiwou War Chronicles” to its streaming service. This marks the first time the series is officially available outside of Japan.
A Pioneering Work by Studio Bones
“Hiwou War Chronicles” holds a special place in anime history as the first original television anime series produced by Studio Bones. Originally aired on NHK BS-2 from October 2000 to May 2001, the series ran for 26 episodes.
Production Team
- Director: Tetsurō Amino
- Original Concept: Shō Aikawa
- Character Designer & Chief Animation Director: Hiroshi Ōsaka
- Music: Hiroshi Yamaguchi
- Studio: Bones
Story
“Hiwou War Chronicles” is set in a world where mechanical dolls and ancient traditions intertwine. The story follows Hiwou, a boy from the Machine People, who uses a clockwork doll to save a boy and becomes entangled in a larger conflict involving sacred objects and warring factions.
Availability
“Hiwou War Chronicles” is now streaming on Crunchyroll worldwide, excluding Japan.
Studio Bones President Comments
Masahiko Minami, president of Studio Bones, shared his thoughts on the streaming release:
“Hiwou War Chronicles is the first original title for Bones, so we, as the founders of the studio, put in a lot of love, thought, and effort into this. The character designs by Hiroshi Osaka, who was one of the founders of Bones, are very cute, and the animation is full of dynamic motions. It was originally produced with 35mm film, but we recently converted the film into a 4K digital master, which made the visuals become very beautiful again. I hope you watch all the episodes and all of Hiwou and his friends’ adventures. Thank you!”
Crunchyroll’s Growing Anime Library
These additions reflect Crunchyroll’s ongoing commitment to expanding its anime offerings and providing fans with a diverse range of content. From new releases like the “Sk8 the Infinity” OVA to classic series like “Hiwou War Chronicles”, Crunchyroll continues to solidify its position as a leading platform for anime streaming.
Other Recent Additions and Partnerships
- New Anime Production Company: Aniplex and Crunchyroll have jointly established HAYATE Inc., a new anime production company focused on creating high-quality anime content for Crunchyroll’s global streaming platform.
- Licensing Deals: Crunchyroll actively secures new licensing deals for popular anime franchises like Dragon Ball, expanding the availability of related merchandise and content.
- Partnerships: Crunchyroll collaborates with various companies, including Game Show Network (GSN), to launch new streaming services and expand anime access to a wider audience.
By consistently adding new content and forging strategic partnerships, Crunchyroll remains a central hub for anime fans worldwide.
