Anime Delayed but Collaboration Expands

KADOKAWA confirmed that the anime, based on Eri Ejima’s comedy manga, will no longer premiere in 2025 as originally scheduled. The delay was explained as a matter of coordinating schedules between all parties involved. While this may disappoint eager fans, the production committee assured audiences that the new broadcast date will be revealed once finalized and thanked them for their continued support.

In the meantime, the project is making waves with its official collaboration with Street Fighter 6. New visuals showcasing the crossover are being featured at Tokyo Game Show, bringing even more excitement and visibility to the upcoming release.

Production and Staff Details

The anime is directed by Shota Ihata, known for The Saint’s Magic Power Is Omnipotent, with series composition by Wataru Watari, the acclaimed author of My Teen Romantic Comedy SNAFU. Mayuko Matsumoto is handling character designs, while Kana Hashiguchi is composing the music. Studio Diomedéa is producing the series, and Street Fighter 6 footage will be used as the central game for the story, integrating authentic fighting game visuals into the anime.

Manga Background and Global Reach

Eri Ejima’s manga has been serialized in Monthly Comic Flapper since 2020 and has already gained attention through a live-action web drama adaptation in 2023. With nine volumes published in Japan, the story has built a steady following. Seven Seas Entertainment releases the manga in English, making it accessible to international readers.

The story centers on Aya, a scholarship student at the elite Kuromi Girls’ Academy, who discovers that her idol Shirayui has a secret passion for fighting games. Behind the refined exterior lies a trash-talking, combo-chaining gamer, setting the stage for a hilarious and heartfelt exploration of unlikely friendships and shared passions.

Looking Ahead

While fans will need to wait until 2026 for the anime’s debut, the Street Fighter 6 collaboration and ongoing manga releases ensure that the buzz continues to grow. With its unique blend of elegance, comedy, and gaming culture, Young Ladies Don’t Play Fighting Games is shaping up to be a standout anime when it finally premieres.

 

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