A new season is just around the corner, bringing with it a plethora of exciting anime titles. As anime enthusiasts, it’s our responsibility to curate the best of the best. After all, a strong storyline needs the support of skilled creators to truly shine. So, which Summer 2017 anime shows are worth getting excited about? Let’s dive in!

Welcome to the Ballroom: Dance Your Way into the Spotlight

Welcome to the Ballroom is the prestigious title of the upcoming season, featuring a star-studded lineup of creators that fans could only dream of. Competitive dance poses a unique challenge for hand-drawn animation due to its constant motion. The creators behind this show understand the importance of assembling a robust team to meet this challenge head-on.

The series director, Yoshimi Itazu, captured attention with his work on Satoshi Kon’s Paprika and Dennou Coil. While he’s been selective with his projects, he’s now making his series director debut with Welcome to the Ballroom. Itazu is joined by trustworthy members of the Haikyuu! animation team, including Takahiro Kishida and Takahiro Chiba. Additionally, Shingo Takenaka, an artist with expertise in theatrical animation, adds his talents to the mix.

Welcome to the Ballroom promises to deliver outstanding animation and a unique take on competitive dancing. I’m excited to cover this series and explore its vibrant world. Nothing will stop me from sharing my insights with you, my passionate readers!

Fate/Apocrypha: A Whole New Grail War

Fate/Apocrypha marks the return of the beloved Fate franchise. This time, we’re in for a different kind of Grail War, and the series embraces a webgen aesthetic. The action directors, Shun Enokido and Takahito Sakazume, impressed viewers with their work on Fate/Grand Order’s CMs, providing a taste of the exhilarating action we can expect from this show.

Yukei “UK” Yamada, the character designer, is not only a fan of the franchise but has also worked on The iDOLM@STER. His involvement in this project brings with it the potential for collaboration with other talented creators. The director, Yoshiyuki Asai, has the opportunity to make Fate/Apocrypha his own and mold the story to his vision.

While there may be some uncertainties surrounding this project, I trust in the talents of the team behind Fate/Apocrypha. With their expertise and passion for the franchise, I have high hopes for this series.

Katsugeki: Touken Ranbu: A Grittier Take on the Popular Franchise

The anime adaptation of the mega-popular Touken Ranbu browser game took an unconventional approach. Rather than opting for just one TV series, the creators decided to give fans two series with different tones. Katsugeki: Touken Ranbu, the grittier of the two, promises to be an immense hit.

Toshiyuki Shirai, the series director, has already gained recognition for his work on Unlimited Blade Works. With a passion for action and a history of success, Shirai is well-equipped to tackle this project. The inclusion of eight character designers, each responsible for a specific character, is an unconventional choice that could create a unique visual experience.

Katsugeki: Touken Ranbu is poised to be a visually stunning anime, thanks to the talents of the character designers and the outstanding lineup of sword-fight animators. While I can’t predict the future, I’m excited to see how this series will unfold and will keep a close eye on its progress.

Made in Abyss: A Dark Adventure Awaits

Despite facing challenges, Kinema Citrus has gathered an impressive lineup of creators for Made in Abyss. This studio has undergone changes in recent years but continues to attract talented animators and directors. Made in Abyss presents an intriguing storyline that, despite its charming adventure surface, promises to explore dark themes.

Kazuchika Kise, an accomplished Production I.G-affiliated animator, is in charge of adapting the character designs. His involvement lends a unique touch to the visuals. Kou Yoshinari, known for pushing the boundaries of coloring and post-processing, will design the world’s bizarre creatures. The backgrounds, crafted by art studio Inspired, create a visually outstanding backdrop for the series.

Made in Abyss might not be a constant animation festival, but it showcases the strengths of Kinema Citrus. With a talented team bringing this dark and visually stunning world to life, this series is worth keeping an eye on.

NEW GAME!!: Return to the Charming Workplace

Dogakobo, the studio behind NEW GAME!!, has faced challenges due to the loss of key creators. However, the promotional video for the sequel gives hope that the series will maintain its unique approach. The original series surprised viewers with its attention to detail, down-to-earth animation, and excellent portrayal of the workplace environment.

Yoshiyuki Fujiwara, the director, has proven himself capable of delivering heartwarming comedy. The art direction and animation supervision by Ai Kikuchi ensure the consistent look and feel of the show. Despite the setbacks, I remain hopeful that NEW GAME!! will continue to delight fans.

Princess Principal: An Original Anime with a Promising Director

Princess Principal is an original anime that promises to deliver an intriguing storyline. Masaki Tachibana, one of the founding members of Kinema Citrus, returns to the studio to direct this series. The concept for Princess Principal was developed by the production committee, making it a unique collaboration between 3hz and Actas studios.

Yukie Akiya, an animator with roots in Kinema Citrus, adapts the original character designs and serves as chief animation director. Nobutaka Ike, known for his work on Satoshi Kon’s films, brings his expertise to the art direction. The combination of talented creators involved in Princess Principal makes it one of the most interesting shows of the season.

Mahoujin Guru Guru: A Remake with a Fun Twist

Mahoujin Guru Guru has had its share of troubles during its remake journey. However, with director Hiroshi Ikehata and character designer Naoyuki Asano at the helm, the show is in good hands. Ikehata’s talent for comedy and Asano’s stylized character designs promise a visually pleasing and amusing experience.

While Mahoujin Guru Guru may not be an animation festival, it possesses a unique visual personality that sets it apart. With its clean look, amusing expressions, and nods to RPGs, the series already has a distinct charm. I’m looking forward to seeing how it unfolds under the guidance of the talented team.

Knight’s & Magic: A Fun Fantasy Adventure

Knight’s & Magic may not be on everyone’s radar, but its focus on the regret of not being able to pilot a robot makes it relatable. The director, Yusuke Yamamoto, has a proven track record of delivering charming and fun series. Yamamoto’s collaboration with talented animators and the use of 3DCG robots by Orange adds an exciting element to the show.

While Knight’s & Magic may not be groundbreaking, it has the potential to be an enjoyable distraction. Sometimes, a fun and straightforward series is exactly what we need to unwind and have a good time.

Owarimonogatari (2017): A Treat for Monogatari Fans

Monogatari fans have something to look forward to with Owarimonogatari (2017). While not a standard TV broadcast, the series promises three new arcs that dive deeper into its complex and compelling storyline. Director Tomoyuki Itamura has grown more comfortable in his role, and his understanding of the series’ emotional payoffs and themes has improved.

As a fan, I’m excited to see how Owarimonogatari (2017) continues to push the boundaries of storytelling. With Itamura at the helm, I’m confident that the series will continue to captivate and surprise viewers.

Senki Zesshou Symphogear AXZ: A Consistently Exciting Series

Symphogear AXZ may not reach the same animation heights as other shows, but it consistently delivers enjoyable action sequences. Satoru Fujimoto’s promotion from chief animation director in season 1 to character designer ensures a strong visual style. The addition of action directors Fumiaki Kouta and Yukiyoshi Shikiji promises exciting combat scenes.

While Symphogear AXZ may not be a pure animation festival, it provides consistent action and entertainment. I’m optimistic about the series and eagerly await its thrilling combat sequences.

It’s Time to Get Excited!

The upcoming Summer 2017 anime season is shaping up to be a thrilling one. With a wide range of shows offering everything from visually stunning animation to exciting action sequences, there’s something for everyone. As an anime enthusiast, I’m excited to dive into these series and share my insights with you. Get ready for an unforgettable season of anime!

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