The world of SANDA, Paru Itagaki’s critically acclaimed manga brought to life by Science Saru, reached a pivotal point with the release of its eighth episode. Premiering on November 21, 2025, “SANDA – Episode 8” served as a high-stakes conclusion, deepening the emotional complexities of its characters and setting a menacing tone for future developments in the anime series. This episode pushed protagonist Kazushige Sanda further into the dangerous reality of his dual identity, confronting him with both personal anguish and a chilling new threat.
The Burden of Santa Claus: Sanda’s Inner Turmoil
Episode 8 delves significantly into the personal struggles of Kazushige Sanda, the reluctant descendant of Santa Claus. A major focus is Sanda’s inner conflict surrounding his interactions and growing feelings for Niko Kazao, complicated by the strictures of his “Santa” identity. His mentor, Yagiuda, warns him that falling in love with a child could lead to his demise through guilt, emphasizing the severe consequences of his unique existence. This internal battle highlights the heavy emotional cost Sanda faces as he grapples with his mission to reignite the spirit of Christmas in a cynical future Japan, where children are a precious commodity and the birth rate has drastically declined. The episode portrays Sanda’s desperate attempts to strengthen his heart, which often lead to unexpected and humorous failures, further underscoring the difficulties of his path.
The Emergence of Class 10: A Sinister New Threat
A significant plot development in “SANDA – Episode 8” is the full unveiling of Class 10, a secretive and profoundly sinister group of children who have committed acts of violence against adults. Encouraged by Saburo Yagiuda, the antagonist Hifumi Oshibu, still recovering from past confrontations, initiates a dangerous new plan by reaching out to this group.
Ikutane Nikaumi: The Enigmatic Leader
The episode introduces Ikutane Nikaumi, the enigmatic leader of Class 10. Nikaumi’s cheerful demeanor masks a twisted and dangerous mind, presenting a stark contrast to the innocent facade often associated with children. Their demand from Sanda is particularly grotesque: his thumbs. This unsettling request exposes Sanda’s greatest vulnerability as Santa Claus – his inability to refuse a child’s wish, even when that child harbors malicious intent. This moral dilemma places Sanda in grave danger, demonstrating how ruthless his enemies truly are and how weaponized childhood innocence can become.
High Stakes and Ominous Cliffhangers
The narrative of Episode 8 builds to an intense climax, leaving viewers on edge with multiple cliffhangers. The confrontation with Class 10 and their chilling demands creates an immediate threat to Sanda’s physical and emotional well-being. Simultaneously, Fumi Namatame, another member of Class 10, receives weapons from Oshibu with instructions to eliminate Santa. Her subsequent actions, including shooting Oshibu and declaring her intent to kill any adults she encounters at an upcoming celebration for 15-year-olds, amplify the sense of impending doom.
Adding another layer of mystery, the episode briefly touches upon an unresolved promise between Shiori Fuyumura and Ichie Ono, hinting at deeper connections and future revelations. The ending shot of Ono unpacking clothes for the aforementioned celebration, oblivious to the looming danger, creates an ominous atmosphere.
The Deeper Meaning of SANDA – Episode 8
“SANDA – Episode 8” masterfully escalates the series’ core themes. It highlights the profound emotional toll on Sanda as he navigates his identity and mission in a society where the meaning of childhood and Christmas has become distorted. The introduction of Class 10 transforms the conceptual battle against a declining birth rate and lost wonder into a tangible, violent conflict. The episode underscores that in this future, the innocence of children is not only lost but can be weaponized, creating adversaries more unsettling than any adult. The ending of Episode 8 leaves no doubt that Sanda’s world, already complex, has become far more menacing, setting a dramatic stage for the series’ continuation.
