The highly anticipated anime adaptation of Sai Naekawa’s “This Monster Wants to Eat Me” (Watashi o Tabetai, Hito de nashi) has revealed a new global visual and a special trailer, confirming its U.S. debut with the premiere of its first episode at Otakon in Washington D.C. this August. The series is set to officially premiere in Japan in October 2025.
A Glimpse into the Dark Yuri Narrative
The newly unveiled global visual presents a darker, more sinister tone, showcasing Shiori Oumi, one of the main characters, in her half-yokai (monster) form, complete with lengthy claws and a seemingly blood-splattered appearance. This contrasts with a previously released “delicious new key visual” from May, which depicted the lead cast in a lighter, more convivial setting, enjoying local delicacies from Ehime Prefecture, where the story is set. Multiple trailers have also been released, providing a dynamic look into the anime’s world and its unique premise.
The anime, a “dark yuri” story, is based on the manga by Sai Naekawa, which began serialization in KADOKAWA’s Dengeki Maoh magazine in August 2020. Yen Press publishes the English version of the manga. The narrative centers on Hinako Yaotose, a high school girl living alone by the sea who possesses an unusually delicious body, making her irresistible to monsters. Her life takes an unexpected turn when Shiori, a mermaid, emerges from the sea and declares her intent to eat Hinako. However, Shiori vows to protect Hinako until she matures into the “perfect meal,” leading to an unlikely and complex relationship between predator and prey.
Otakon Debut and Production Details
Fans in the United States will have an early opportunity to experience the anime’s first episode at Otakon, which will be held in Washington D.C. in August. This U.S. premiere will be accompanied by a talk session featuring key figures from the manga and anime production. Confirmed guests for this special event include Sai Naekawa (original creator/mangaka), Takumi Kamemaru (manga editor), and Ena Hamabe (anime producer), who will offer insights into the creation process. Prior to Otakon, the anime also had a stage event at Japan Expo Paris in July and was showcased at the PONY CANYON booth at Anime Expo in Los Angeles.
The production of “This Monster Wants to Eat Me” is handled by STUDIO LINGS, with Naoyuki Kuzuya serving as chief director and Yusuke Suzuki as director. Mitsutaka Hirota is in charge of series composition and screenplays, while Nozomi Ikuyama is designing the characters, and Keiji Inai is composing the music. The voice cast includes Reina Ueda as Hinako Yaotose, Yui Ishikawa as Shiori Oumi, and Fairouz Ai as Miko Yashiro.
