The upcoming original bowling anime, “Turkey! -Time to Strike-“, has revealed a second key visual and additional staff members, heightening anticipation for its July 2025 debut. This series, produced by Pony Canyon and Bakken Record, promises a unique blend of sports and slice-of-life elements, set against the backdrop of high school bowling.
“Turkey!” Anime Set to Premiere in July 2025
The anime is scheduled to air on NTV, BS NTV, and TV Shinshu, offering viewers a chance to immerse themselves in the world of high school bowling. The series was initially announced in December 2022, and the latest updates have generated further excitement among anime enthusiasts.
New Key Visual Showcases High-Flying Heroines
The newly released key visual depicts the five main characters soaring through the clouds, hinting at the series’ themes of dreams, aspirations, and the pursuit of victory. The visual also emphasizes the importance of teamwork and friendship, core elements of the “Turkey!” narrative.
Expanded Staff List Bolsters Production Team
In addition to the previously announced core staff, several new members have joined the “Turkey!” production team, bringing their expertise to various aspects of the anime’s creation:
- Main Animator: Yuto Naka
- Color Design: Haruko Nobori
- Art Director: Kenichi Tajiri
- Director of Photography: Yohei Konishi
- CG Director: Natsuki Horimoto
- Editing: Yukie Oikawa
- Music: Yuki Hayashi
- Producer: Tetsuya Kinoshita, Toshiya Kitabayashi
- Animation Producer: Yutaka Omatsu
Story Centered on Five High School Girls in a Bowling Club
“Turkey! -Time to Strike-” revolves around five high school girls who are members of the Ikkokukan High School Bowling Club. The story focuses on their struggles, triumphs, and the unbreakable bond they share as they strive for victory. Pony Canyon describes the anime as a “mysterious, precious, bittersweet, and irreplaceable” tale that transcends simple entertainment.
The central character, Mai Otonashi, is portrayed as “a genius who never wins,” adding an intriguing layer to the narrative. Alongside her teammates Rina, Sayuri, Nozomi, and Nanase, Mai navigates the challenges of competitive bowling while forging lasting friendships.
Key Creative Talents Behind “Turkey!”
The anime boasts a talented team of creators who are dedicated to bringing the world of “Turkey!” to life:
- Director: Susumu Kudo (Momentary Lily, Cinderella Nine, The Masterful Cat Is Depressed Again Today)
- Scriptwriter: Naomi Hiruta (live-action Seiho Boys’ High School!, A Devil and Her Love Song)
- Character Designer: Airi Takekawa (“Ippon” Again!)
- Music Composer: Yuki Hayashi (My Hero Academia)
- Animation Studio: BAKKEN RECORD
- Music Production: Pony Canyon
Voice Cast
The voice cast includes:
- Hana Hishikawa as Mai Otonashi
- Kana Ichinose as Rina Kodai
- Haruki Iwata as Sayuri Ichinose
- Yūki Tenma as Nozomi Mitake
- Ayasa Itō as Nanase Nikaidō
Setting in Chikuma City, Nagano Prefecture
“Turkey! -Time to Strike-” is set in the scenic Chikuma City in Nagano Prefecture, Japan. This location provides a vibrant backdrop for the story, immersing viewers in the local culture and atmosphere. A themed bus will also run through Chikuma.
What is a Turkey in Bowling?
The anime’s title, “Turkey!,” is derived from the bowling term for scoring three consecutive strikes, symbolizing the pursuit of excellence and the thrill of achieving a remarkable feat. This connection to the sport adds a layer of depth and meaning to the series’ overall theme.
