Fromsoftware is a video game developer with a niche, yet dedicated audience, and within that specific set of gamers, Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice lovers form one even more niche and more dedicated fandom. Fans of this game have been eagerly awaiting something new from the company, who have only ever released a single free update in 2020 when it comes to post-release content, and today, at Gamescom’s Opening Night Live 2025, their prayers were answered, even if not in a way they may have expected.
The Kadokawa Corporation, Qzil.la and ARCH partnered with Crunchyroll to unveil Sekiro: No Defeat, a gorgeously hand-drawn new anime adaptation of the original game story, and did so with a breathtaking trailer that looks to find that same beauty in violence that the game strives to portray. Watch the official trailer on Youtube or right here:
The art and animation for No Defeat are truly a spectacle to behold. The hand-drawn characters and settings feel ripped straight out of the late 90’s/early 2000s era of anime, and the swordplay and stylish violence are animated with great care and reverence to the style of the game.
“We are taking on the monumental task of animating the breathtakingly beautiful Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice. In doing so, we are pouring every ounce of our artistic vision and passion for beauty into its production,” said Kenichi Kutsuna, director of the adaptation. “The final product is being crafted to be a truly memorable experience, one that will leave a lasting impression on both dedicated fans of the game and those who are discovering the world of Sekiro for the very first time. Please look forward to it.”
“Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice is a game known for its precision and intensity, and those qualities carry through beautifully in this adaptation,” said Asa Suehira, Chief Content Officer at Crunchyroll. “We’re excited to bring Sekiro: No Defeat to fans around the world, and honored to work alongside Kadokawa, Qzil.la, and ARCH to expand this iconic story through the medium of anime.”
Sekiro: No Defeat will air exclusively on Crunchyroll, though no release date is currently known. Kenichi Kutsuna is directing, with a screenplay by Takuya Satou and cinematography by Keisuke Nozawa. Current cast details include Daisuke Namikawa as Wolf, Miyuki Satou as Kuro the Divine Heir, and Kenjiro Tsuda as Genichiro Ashina.
