OLM (studio)
OLM (studio)
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OLM (studio)

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OLM, Inc.[a] (formerly Oriental Light and Magic) is a Japanese animation and film studio headquartered in Setagaya, Tokyo, Japan,[2] founded on October 3, 1990, by former Studio Gallop and OB Planning employees. They are best known for producing the Pokémon and Berserk anime series.

Key Information

Establishment

[edit]

OLM was founded as Oriental Light and Magic, Inc. on October 3, 1990, by Toshiaki Okuno, Shūkichi Kanda, Shōji Ōta, Kunihiko Yuyama, Naohito Takahashi, Yuriko Chiba, Nobuyuki Wasaki, Tsukasa Koitabashi, and Takaya Mizutani, all of which were formerly affiliated with Studio Gallop or OB Planning. Their name is derived from the American special effects studio Industrial Light & Magic.

In 1995, OLM representative director Toshiaki Okuno founded OLM Digital, which became the main CG work company behind a majority of OLM's works. Toshiaki Okuno stood as both companies' representative director since their establishment until 2024, when he elected to step down from his position. Hideki Kama, the vice president of the company at the time, was declared his successor at the main studio, while Misako Saka would succeed him as the representative director of OLM Digital. These changes took place on April 1, 2024.[3] Okuno remains with the company as part of the board of directors.

Studio structure

[edit]

Similar to Bandai Namco Filmworks and Bones, OLM is divided into separate, distinct production lines that are typically named after the Animation Producer[b] leading the production. As of 2025, the studio officially operates six separate production lines.

Current OLM Production Units
Team Name Lead Producer Notes
OLM TEAM INOUE[c] Takashi Inoue (井上 たかし, Inoue Takashi) Established by a former TEAM WASAKI member.
OLM TEAM YOSHIOKA Daisuke Yoshioka (吉岡 大輔, Yoshioka Daisuke) Established by a former TEAM WASAKI member.
OLM TEAM KUMEMURA Makoto Kumemura (久米村 誠, Kumemura Makoto) Reshuffled from TEAM KATO.
OLM TEAM HIKITA Takahito Hikita (引田 崇人, Hikita Takahito) Established by a former TEAM INOUE member.
OLM TEAM MASUDA Katsuhito Masuda (増田 克人, Masuda Katsuhito) Formerly a producer at MAPPA.
Staff spun-off from TEAM SAKURAI.
Eiji Sumitomo (住友 英司, Sumitomo Eiji) Formerly a producer at Studio Gokumi.
Staff spun-off from TEAM KOJIMA and TEAM INOUE.
Satoshi Shōda (正田 聡史, Shōda Satoshi) Established by a former TEAM ABE member.
OLM TEAM MIIKE Misako Saka (坂 美佐子, Saka Misako) Division of OLM Digital.
Produces live-action works under the direction of Takashi Miike.
Former OLM Production Units
OLM TEAM KATO[d] Hiroyuki Katō (加藤 浩幸, Katō Hiroyuki) Established by a former TEAM KAMEI member. Reshuffled into TEAM KUMEMURA following the production of Pokémon Horizons: The Series episode 45. Hiroyuki Kato remains in the team as Creative Producer.
OLM TEAM KOITABASHI Tsukasa Koitabashi (小板橋 司, Koitabashi Tsukasa) Formerly of Gallop. One of the original production units.
Last credited work was Pochitto Hatsumei: Pikachin-Kit.
Due to inactivity since 2020, it is assumed this team has disbanded.
OLM TEAM WASAKI Nobuyuki Wasaki (和崎 伸之, Wasaki Nobuyuki) Formerly of Gallop. One of the original production units.
Last credited work was Kamisama Minarai: Himitsu no Cocotama.
Due to inactivity since 2018, it is assumed this team has disbanded.
OLM TEAM OTA Shōji Ōta (太田 昌二, Ōta Shōji) Formerly of OB Planning/Pastel. One of the original production units.
Disbanded in 2008 following the production of Let's Go! Tamagotchi.
Currently production desk for Hanakappa.
OLM TEAM IGUCHI Noriaki Iguchi (井口 憲明, Iguchi Noriaki) One of the original production units.
Disbanded in 2010 following the production of Episode 2 of
Pokémon: Diamond and Pearl: Sinnoh League Victors.
OLM TEAM IWASA Gaku Iwasa (岩佐 岳, Iwasa Gaku) Disbanded and spun off in 2007, establishing the studio White Fox following the production of Utawarerumono.
OLM TEAM KOJIMA Hiroaki Kojima (児島 宏明, Kojima Hiroaki) Formerly a producer at Diomedéa
Disbanded and spun off in 2022, establishing the studio Bug Films[4] following the production of Summer Time Rendering.
OLM TEAM ABE Isamu Abe (阿部 勇, Abe Isamu) Formerly a producer at SynergySP.
Disbanded in 2022 following the production of Shinkansen Henkei Robo Shinkalion Z.
Currently affiliated with KONAMI Animation as of 2024.
OLM TEAM SAKURAI[e] Ryōsuke Sakurai (櫻井 涼介, Sakurai Ryōsuke) Formerly a producer at SynergySP.
Disbanded in 2019 following the production of Zoids Wild.
Remained as Associate Animation Producer for Beyblade Burst Surge up until episode 26.
Currently affiliated with East Fish Studio as of 2024.
OLM TEAM KAMEI Yasuteru Kamei (亀井 康輝, Kamei Yasuteru) Established by a former TEAM KOITABASHI member.
Disbanded in 2017 following the production of 100% Pascal-sensei.
OLM TEAM GO Gō Sawada (澤田 剛, Sawada Gō) Established by a former TEAM KOITABASHI member.
Merged into TEAM INOUE following the production of Cardfight!! Vanguard: Shinemon-hen. Remained as a production manager for TEAM INOUE.
OLM TEAM KAWAKITA Manabu Kawakita (河北 学 (Kawakita Manabu) Established by a former TEAM INOUE member.
Partially merged back into TEAM INOUE following the production of Inazuma Eleven: Orion no Kokuin. Remained as a production manager until 2022 when he transferred to AQUASTAR Inc.[5]
OLM TEAM MIYAGAWA Keisuke Miyagawa (三宅川 敬輔, Miyagawa Keisuke) Former live-action production unit.
Disbanded in 2015 and absorbed into Fuji Creative Corporation (FCC).

Works

[edit]

TV series

[edit]
Title First run start date First run end date Episodes Notes Team Ref.
Wedding Peach April 5, 1995 March 27, 1996 51 Adaptation of the manga series by Nao Yazawa and Sukehiro Tomita. Although the series' credits list KSS for animation production, the animation was done by OLM and is listed as such on their website. Team Ota [6]
Mojacko October 3, 1995 March 31, 1997 74 Adaptation of the manga series created by author duo Fujiko F. Fujio. Team Iguchi [6]
Pokémon April 1, 1997 Present 1,300 A long-running Japanese children's anime TV series. Adapted from The Pokémon Company's media franchise of the same name. Team Ota (1997–2006)
Team Iguchi (2006–2009)
Team Kato (2010–2024)
Team Kumemura (2024-present)
[7]
Berserk October 7, 1997 March 31, 1998 25 Adaptation of the manga series by Kentaro Miura. Team Iguchi [8]
Adventures of Mini-Goddess April 6, 1998 March 29, 1999 48 Based on the Oh My Goddess! manga series by Kōsuke Fujishima. Team Koitabashi [6]
To Heart April 1, 1999 June 24, 1999 13 Adaptation of adult visual novel developed by Leaf. Team Wasaki [6]
Steel Angel Kurumi October 5, 1999 April 4, 2000 24 Based on a manga series by Kaishaku. [6]
Comic Party April 2, 2001 June 25, 2001 13+4 specials Based on the romantic adventure and dating sim video game by Leaf. Team Iguchi [6]
Steel Angel Kurumi 2 April 12, 2001 June 28, 2001 12 An alternate story of the Steel Angel Kurumi anime series. Team Wasaki [6]
Figure 17 May 27, 2001 June 26, 2002 13 An anime television series created by Genco and OLM, Inc. [6]
Kasumin October 13, 2001 October 1, 2003 78 Original work. Team Iwasa [6]
Piano: The Melody of a Young Girl's Heart November 11, 2002 January 13, 2003 10 An anime television series directed by Norihiko Sudo. Team Iguchi [6]
Croket! April 7, 2003 March 27, 2005 78 Adaptation of the manga by Manavu Kashimoto. [6]
Godannar October 1, 2003 June 29, 2004 26 An anime series by Yasuchika Nagaoka. Co-produced with AIC A.S.T.A. [6]
Full-Blast Science Adventure – So That's How It Is October 5, 2003 March 28, 2004 26 An anime television series directed by Norihiko Sudo. Team Iwasa [6]
Monkey Turn January 10, 2004 June 26, 2004 25 Adaptation of the manga by Katsutoshi Kawai. [6]
Monkey Turn V July 3, 2004 December 18, 2004 25 Sequel to Monkey Turn.
Agatha Christie's Great Detectives Poirot and Marple July 4, 2004 May 15, 2005 39 Adaptation of several Agatha Christie stories about Hercule Poirot and Miss Marple. Team Iwasa [6]
To Heart: Remember My Memories October 2, 2004 December 25, 2004 13 Sequel to To Heart. Co-produced with AIC ASTA. [6]
Guyver: The Bioboosted Armor August 6, 2005 February 18, 2006 26 Based on the long-running manga series, Bio Booster Armor Guyver, by Yoshiki Takaya. Team Wasaki [6]
To Heart 2 October 3, 2005 January 2, 2006 13 Based on Japanese romance visual novel developed by Leaf and published by Aquaplus. Stylized as ToHeart2. Team Iguchi [6]
Utawarerumono April 3, 2006 September 25, 2006 26 Based on the adult tactical role-playing visual novel by Leaf. Team Iwasa [6]
Makai Senki Disgaea April 4, 2006 June 20, 2006 12 Based on the video game Disgaea: Hour of Darkness. Team Iguchi [6]
Ray the Animation April 6, 2006 June 29, 2006 13 Based on a manga series by Akihito Yoshitomi. [6]
Pokémon Chronicles June 3, 2006 November 25, 2006 22 The side story of Pokémon anime television series.
Silk Road Kids Yuto September 16, 2006 March 24, 2007 26 Original 3DCG series. OLM Digital [6]
Super Robot Wars Original Generation: Divine Wars October 4, 2006 March 29, 2007 25+OVA Retells the events from the Super Robot Taisen: Original Generation game. Team Iwasa [6]
Gift: Eternal Rainbow October 6, 2006 December 22, 2006 12+OVA Based on the adult visual novel developed by Moonstone. [6]
Deltora Quest January 6, 2007 March 29, 2008 65 Based on the Deltora Quest children's books series by Australian author Emily Rodda. Team Wasaki [6]
Inazuma Eleven October 5, 2008 April 27, 2011 127 Adaptation of the manga series by Tenya Yabuno. Based on the video game series created by Level-5. [6]
Usaru-san October 3, 2009 October 10, 2009 4 Team Koitabashi
Tamagotchi! October 12, 2009 September 3, 2012 143 Based on the Tamagotchi digital pet jointly created by Bandai and WiZ. Team Kamei [6]
Hanakappa March 29, 2010[f] Present 708 Adaptation of the picture book series by Tadashi Akiyama. Co-produced with Xebec from September 2010 to January 2019, then co-produced with Signal.MD from April 2019 to 2021. [6]
Little Battlers Experience March 2, 2011 January 11, 2012 44 Based on a manga series by Hideaki Fujii. Team Inoue [6]
Inazuma Eleven GO May 4, 2011 April 11, 2012 47 Adaptation of the manga series by Tenya Yabuno. Based on the video game series created by Level-5. Team Wasaki [6]
Little Battlers Experience W January 18, 2012 March 20, 2013 58 Sequel to Little Battlers Experience. Team Inoue [6]
Inazuma Eleven GO: Chrono Stone April 18, 2012 May 1, 2013 51 Sequel to Inazuma Eleven GO. Team Wasaki [6]
Tamagotchi! Yume Kira Dream September 10, 2012 August 29, 2013 49 Sequel to Tamagotchi!. Team Kamei [6]
Little Battlers Experience Wars April 3, 2013 December 25, 2013 37 Sequel to Little Battlers Experience W. Team Inoue [6]
Inazuma Eleven GO: Galaxy May 8, 2013 March 19, 2014 43 Sequel to Inazuma Eleven GO: Chrono Stone. Team Koitabashi
Pac-Man and the Ghostly Adventures June 15, 2013 April 25, 2015 52 Original 3DCG series based on the video game series created by Bandai Namco Entertainment. Co-produced with 41 Entertainment, Arad Productions and Sprite Animation Studios. OLM Digital [6]
Tamagotchi! Miracle Friends September 5, 2013 March 27, 2014 29 Sequel to Tamagotchi! Yume Kira Dream. Team Wasaki [6]
Future Card Buddyfight January 4, 2014 April 4, 2015 64 Based on the collectible card game created by Bushiroad. Co-produced with Xebec. [6]
Yo-kai Watch January 8, 2014 March 30, 2018 214 Based on the role-playing video games by Level-5. Team Inoue [6]
GO-GO Tamagotchi! April 3, 2014 March 26, 2015 50 Sequel to Tamagotchi! Miracle Friends. Team Wasaki [6]
Dragon Collection April 7, 2014 March 23, 2015 51 Adaptation of the manga series by Muneyuki Kaneshiro based on the social network and trading card arcade games by Konami. [6]
Monster Retsuden Oreca Battle April 7, 2014 March 30, 2015 51 Adaptation of the manga by Satoshi Yamaura based on the trading card arcade game by Konami. Co-produced with Xebec. [6]
Omakase! Miracle Cat-dan March 31, 2015 February 23, 2016 32 Based on Neko no Ashiato, an autobiographical essay book by Shoko Nakagawa. [6]
Future Card Buddyfight 100 April 11, 2015 March 26, 2016 50 Sequel to Future Card Buddyfight. Co-produced with Xebec. [6]
Pikaia! April 29, 2015 August 30, 2015 13 Co-produced with Production I.G. [6]
Kamisama Minarai: Himitsu no Cocotama October 1, 2015 August 30, 2018 139 Based on the Cocotama House Series toys Created by Bandai. Team Wasaki (Season 1)
Team Yoshioka (Season 2)
[6]
Future Card Buddyfight Triple D April 1, 2016 March 24, 2017 51 Sequel to Future Card Buddyfight 100. Co-produced with Xebec. [6]
Age 12: A Little Heart-Pounding April 4, 2016 December 19, 2016 24 Adaptation of the manga series by Nao Maita. Team Sakurai [6]
Beyblade Burst April 4, 2016 March 27, 2017 51 Adaptation of the manga by Hiro Morita. Team Abe [6]
Cardfight!! Vanguard G NEXT October 2, 2016 October 1, 2017 52 Based on the trading card game created by Bushiroad. Sequel to Cardfight!! Vanguard G Stride Gate. Co-produced with Xebec. Team Koitabashi [6]
Pikaia!! February 26, 2017 May 27, 2017 13 Sequel to Pikaia! Co-produced with Production I.G
Future Card Buddyfight X April 1, 2017 March 31, 2018 52 Sequel to Future Card Buddyfight Triple D. Co-produced with Xebec.
Beyblade Burst Evolution April 3, 2017 March 26, 2018 51 Adaptation of the manga by Hiro Morita and sequel to Beyblade Burst. Team Abe
Snack World April 13, 2017 April 19, 2018 50 3DCG adaptation of the video game by Level 5. OLM Digital
100% Pascal-sensei April 15, 2017 December 16, 2017 36 Adaptation of the manga by Yūji Nagai. Team Kamei
PriPri Chi-chan!! April 15, 2017 December 16, 2017 36 Adaptation of the manga by Hiromu Shinozuka. Team Sakurai
Atom: The Beginning April 15, 2017 July 8, 2017 12 Adaptation of the manga by Tetsuro Kasahara along with Makoto Tezuka and Masami Yuki. Co-produced with Production I.G and Signal.MD. Team Koitabashi
Tomica Hyper Rescue Drive Head Kidō Kyūkyū Keisatsu April 15, 2017 December 23, 2017 37 Based on the Tomica toyline created by Tomy. Co-produced with Xebec.
Cardfight!! Vanguard G: Z October 8, 2017 April 1, 2018 24 Based on the trading card game created by Bushiroad. Sequel to Cardfight!! Vanguard G NEXT. Co-produced with Bridge. Team Koitabashi [6]
Shinkansen Henkei Robo Shinkalion The Animation January 6, 2018 June 29, 2019 76 Based on the toyline created by Tomy. Team Ota
Pochitto Hatsumei: Pikachin-Kit January 6, 2018 March 28, 2020 115 Co-produced with Shin-Ei Animation. Team Koitabashi
Beyblade Burst Turbo April 2, 2018 March 25, 2019 51 Adaptation of the manga by Hiro Morita and sequel to Beyblade Burst Evolution. Team Abe
Inazuma Eleven: Ares April 6, 2018 September 28, 2018 26 Alternate sequel to Inazuma Eleven. Based on the game by Level-5. Team Kawakita
Future Card Buddyfight X All Star Fight April 7, 2018 May 26, 2018 8 Sequel to Future Card Buddyfight X. Co-produced with Xebec.
Major 2nd April 7, 2018 November 7, 2020 50 Sequel to Major. Team Kojima
Yo-kai Watch Shadowside April 13, 2018 March 29, 2019 49 Based on the role-playing video games by Level-5. Team Inoue
Cardfight!! Vanguard (2018) May 5, 2018 May 4, 2019 52 Based on the trading card game created by Bushiroad. Reboot of the original series. Co-produced with Bridge. Team Go [6]
Future Card Buddyfight Ace June 2, 2018 March 30, 2019 43 Sequel to Future Card Buddyfight X: All Star Fight. Co-produced with Xebec.
Zoids Wild July 7, 2018 June 29, 2019 50 Based on the Zoids toyline. Team Sakurai
Kira Kira Happy Hirake! Cocotama September 6, 2018 September 26, 2019 55 Sequel to Kamisama Minarai: Himitsu no Cocotama. Team Yoshioka
Inazuma Eleven: Orion no Kokuin October 5, 2018 September 27, 2019 49 Sequel to Inazuma Eleven: Ares. Team Kawakita
Tinpo December 10, 2018 November 6, 2019 78 Original 3DCG series based on the characters created by Those Characters from Cleveland, Inc. Co-produced with Cloudco Entertainment, CBeebies, Sprite Animation Studios and Dentsu. OLM Digital
Yo-kai Watch! April 5, 2019 December 20, 2019 36 Revival of the original series. Co-produced with Magic Bus. Team Inoue
Kedama no Gonjirō April 6, 2019 March 28, 2020 52 Co-produced with Wit Studio.
Mix Meisei Story April 6, 2019 September 28, 2019 24 Adaptation of the manga by Mitsuru Adachi. Team Kojima
Cardfight!! Vanguard: High School Arc Cont. May 11, 2019 August 10, 2019 14 Based on the trading card game created by Bushiroad. Sequel to Cardfight!! Vanguard (2018). Team Go
Cardfight!! Vanguard: Shinemon-hen August 24, 2019 March 28, 2020 31 Based on the trading card game created by Bushiroad. Prequel to Cardfight!! Vanguard (2018). Team Go

Team Abe (episodes 21-31)

Zoids Wild Zero October 4, 2019 October 16, 2020 50 Prequel to Zoids Wild. Team Masuda
Yo-kai Watch Jam: Yo-kai Academy Y: Encounter with N December 27, 2019 April 2, 2021 64 Based on the role-playing video games by Level-5. Team Inoue
Bungo and Alchemist: Gears of Judgement April 3, 2020 August 7, 2020 13 Based on the video game created by DMM Games. Team Kojima [9]
Tomica Bond Combination Earth Granner April 5, 2020 March 28, 2021 51 Based on the Tomica toy line created by Tomy. Team Inoue
GaruGaku: Saint Girls Square Academy April 6, 2020 March 29, 2021 50 Co-produced with Wit Studio. Team Kato
Cardfight!! Vanguard Gaiden if May 30, 2020 November 30, 2020 25 Based on the trading card game created by Bushiroad. Alternate Universe to Cardfight!! Vanguard (2018). Team Abe
King's Raid: Successors of the Will October 3, 2020 March 27, 2021 26 Based on the South Korean video game created by Vespa. Co-produced with Sunrise Beyond. [10]
Mazica Party April 4, 2021 March 27, 2022 51 Based on the trading card game created by Tomy. Team Inoue [11]
Odd Taxi April 6, 2021 June 29, 2021 13 Original work. Co-produced with P.I.C.S. Team Yoshioka [12]
Shinkansen Henkei Robo Shinkalion Z April 9, 2021 March 18, 2022 41 Sequel to Shinkansen Henkei Robo Shinkalion. Team Abe
Yo-kai Watch Music Note April 9, 2021 March 31, 2023 98 Revival of the original series. Team Inoue [13]
Megaton Musashi October 1, 2021 December 24, 2021 13 Based on the video game created by Level-5. [14]
Restaurant to Another World 2 October 2, 2021 December 18, 2021 12 Sequel to Restaurant to Another World. Team Yoshioka [15]
Komi Can't Communicate October 7, 2021 December 23, 2021 12 Adaptation of the manga series by Tomohito Oda. Team Kojima [16]
Ninjala January 8, 2022 Present TBA Based on the video game created by GungHo Online Entertainment. Team Inoue (2022-2024)
Team Hikita (2024-present)
[17]
GaruGaku II: Lucky Stars January 10, 2022 March 18, 2022 50 Sequel to GaruGaku: Saint Girls Square Academy. Team Kato [18]
Life with an Ordinary Guy Who Reincarnated into a Total Fantasy Knockout January 12, 2022 March 30, 2022 12 Adaptation of the manga series written by Yū Tsurusaki. Team Yoshioka [19]
Love All Play April 2, 2022 September 24, 2022 24 Adaptation of the novel written by Asami Koseki. Co-produced with Nippon Animation. [20]
Komi Can't Communicate 2 April 7, 2022 June 23, 2022 12 Sequel to Komi Can't Communicate. Team Kojima [21]
Summer Time Rendering April 15, 2022 September 30, 2022 25 Adaptation of the manga series written by Yasuki Tanaka. [22]
Punirunes October 2, 2022 March 26, 2023 25 Based on the toy line created by Takara Tomy. OLM Digital [23]
Megaton Musashi 2 October 7, 2022 March 17, 2023 15 Sequel to Megaton Musashi. Team Inoue [24]
Don't Toy with Me, Miss Nagatoro 2nd Attack January 8, 2023 March 26, 2023 12 Sequel to Don't Toy with Me, Miss Nagatoro by Telecom Animation Film. [25]
Mix Meisei Story Season 2 April 1, 2023 September 23, 2023 24 Sequel to Mix Meisei Story. Team Masuda [26]
Bōken Tairiku Ania Kingdom April 2, 2023 December 24, 2023 39 Stop-motion series. Based on the toy lines created by Takara Tomy. Co-produced with Infinity Vision. [27]
Go! Go! Vehicle Zoo April 2, 2023 December 24, 2023 26 Based on the toy lines created by Takara Tomy. Co-produced with Signal.MD. [28]
The Most Heretical Last Boss Queen July 7, 2023 September 22, 2023 12 Adaptation of the light novel series written by Tenichi. Team Yoshioka [29]
Dark Gathering July 10, 2023 December 25, 2023 25 Adaptation of the manga series written by Kenichi Kondō. Team Masuda [30]
Beyblade X October 6, 2023 Present TBA Adaptation of the manga by Hikaru Muno, Homura Kawamoto and Posuka Demizu. [31]
The Faraway Paladin: The Lord of Rust Mountain October 7, 2023 December 23, 2023 12 Sequel to The Faraway Paladin by Children's Playground Entertainment. Co-produced with Sunrise Beyond. [32]
The Apothecary Diaries October 22, 2023 March 24, 2024 24 Adaptation of the light novel series written by Natsu Hyūga. Co-produced with Toho Animation Studio. [33]
Pon no Michi January 6, 2024 March 23, 2024 12 Original work. Team Inoue [34]
Sai-Kyo-Oh! Zukan: The Ultimate Battles January 6, 2024 December 14, 2024 50 Adaptation of the children's book series published by Gakken. OLM Digital [35]
Delusional Monthly Magazine January 11, 2024 March 28, 2024 12 Original work. Team Yoshioka [36]
Tonbo! April 6, 2024 January 4, 2025 26 Adaptation of the manga series by Ken Kawasaki and Yū Furusawa. Co-produced with SMDE. Division 2[g] [37]
Himitsu no AiPri April 7, 2024 Present TBA Next entry in the Pretty series. Co-produced with Dongwoo A&E. Division 2 (Season 2)[h] [38]
I Parry Everything: What Do You Mean I'm the Strongest? I'm Not Even an Adventurer Yet! July 5, 2024 September 20, 2024 12 Adaptation of the light novel series written by Nabeshiki. [39]
Dungeon People July 6, 2024 September 28, 2024 12 Adaptation of the manga series by Sui Futami. Team Yoshioka [40]
Punirunes Puni 2 October 6, 2024 March 30, 2025 25 Sequel to Punirunes. OLM Digital [41]
Tono to Inu October 10, 2024 March 28, 2025 24 Adaptation of the manga series by Rie Nishida. Co-produced with Live2D Creative Studio. [42]
The Apothecary Diaries Season 2 January 10, 2025 July 4, 2025 24 Sequel to The Apothecary Diaries. Co-produced with Toho Animation Studio. [43]
Go! Go! Vehicle Zoo: Norimono Star-hen April 6, 2025 June 29, 2025 13 Sequel to Go! Go! Vehicle Zoo ONA. Co-produced with Lesprit.
Sai-Kyo-Oh! Zukan: The Ultimate Tournament April 6, 2025 TBA TBA Sequel to Sai-Kyo-Oh! Zukan: The Ultimate Battles. OLM Digital [44]
Me and the Alien MuMu April 10, 2025 September 18, 2025 24 Adaptation of the manga series by Hiroki Miyashita. Division 2 [45]
Welcome to the Outcast's Restaurant! July 3, 2025 September 18, 2025 12 Adaptation of the light novel series written by Yūki Kimikawa. Team Yoshioka [46]
Punirunes Puni 3 July 5, 2025 TBA TBA Sequel to Punirunes Puni 2. OLM Digital [47]
Night of the Living Cat July 7, 2025 September 22, 2025 12 Adaptation of the manga series by Hawkman and Mecha-Roots. Division 1[i] [48]
Let's Play October 2, 2025 TBA TBA Adaptation of the webcomic by Leeanne M. Krecic. Division 1 [49]
Scum of the Brave January 2026 TBA TBA Adaptation of the light novel written by Rocket Shokai. TBA [50]
The Most Heretical Last Boss Queen Season 2 April 2026 TBA TBA Sequel to The Most Heretical Last Boss Queen. Team Yoshioka [51]
The Apothecary Diaries Season 3 October 2026 TBA TBA Sequel to The Apothecary Diaries Season 2. Co-produced with Toho Animation Studio. [52]
Dark Gathering Season 2 TBA TBA TBA Sequel to Dark Gathering. [53]

Films

[edit]
Title Release date Note(s) Team Ref.
Pokémon: The First Movie July 18, 1998 The first animated film and the first film overall of the Pokémon franchise. Team Koitabashi
Pokémon: The Movie 2000 July 17, 1999 The second animated film of the Pokémon franchise.
Pokémon 3: The Movie July 8, 2000 The third animated film of the Pokémon franchise.
Pokémon 4Ever July 7, 2001 The fourth animated film of the Pokémon franchise.
Pokémon Heroes: Latias and Latios July 13, 2002 The fifth animated film of the Pokémon franchise.
Pokémon: Jirachi Wish Maker July 19, 2003 The sixth animated film of the Pokémon franchise.
Pokémon: Destiny Deoxys July 17, 2004 The seventh animated film of the Pokémon franchise.
Blade of the Phantom Master December 4, 2004 Adaptation of the manga-manhwa series by Youn In-wan and Yang Kyung-il. Co-produced with Character Plan.
Pokémon: Lucario and the Mystery of Mew July 16, 2005 The eighth animated film of the Pokémon franchise.
Pokémon Ranger and the Temple of the Sea July 15, 2006 The ninth animated film of the Pokémon franchise.
Gekijōban Dōbutsu no Mori December 16, 2006 Based on the Animal Crossing video game series. Team Kamei
Pokémon: The Rise of Darkrai July 14, 2007 The tenth animated film of the Pokémon franchise. Team Koitabashi
Tamagotchi: The Movie December 15, 2007 The first Tamagotchi feature film. Team Kamei
Pokémon: Giratina and the Sky Warrior July 19, 2008 The 11th animated film of the Pokémon franchise. Team Koitabashi
Tamagotchi: Happiest Story in the Universe! December 20, 2008 The second Tamagotchi feature film. Team Kamei
Pokémon: Arceus and the Jewel of Life July 18, 2009 The 12th animated film of the Pokémon franchise. Team Koitabashi
Professor Layton and the Eternal Diva December 19, 2009 Based on the Professor Layton video game series by Level-5. Co-produced with P.A. Works. Team Kamei
Pokémon: Zoroark: Master of Illusions July 10, 2010 The 13th animated film of the Pokémon franchise. Team Koitabashi
Inazuma Eleven: Saikyō Gundan Ōga Shūrai December 23, 2010 Based on the manga and anime series Inazuma Eleven.
Pokémon the Movie: Black—Victini and Reshiram and White—Victini and Zekrom July 16, 2011 The 14th animated film of the Pokémon franchise. Co-produced with Production I.G and Xebec.
Inazuma Eleven GO: Kyūkyoku no Kizuna Gurifon December 23, 2011 Based on the manga and anime series Inazuma Eleven GO.
Pokémon the Movie: Kyurem vs. the Sword of Justice July 14, 2012 The 15th animated film of the Pokémon franchise.
Inazuma Eleven GO vs. Danbōru Senki W December 1, 2012 The crossover anime film of Inazuma Eleven GO and Little Battlers Experience W. Team Koitabashi
Team Inoue
Eiga Hana Kappa Hana-sake! Pakkaan Chō no Kuni no Daibōken April 12, 2013 Co-produced with Xebec.
Pokémon the Movie: Genesect and the Legend Awakened July 13, 2013 The 16th animated film of the Pokémon franchise. Team Koitabashi
Pokémon Origins October 2, 2013 TV film, co-produced with Production I.G and Xebec.
Pokémon the Movie: Diancie and the Cocoon of Destruction July 19, 2014 The 17th animated film of the Pokémon franchise. Team Kamei
Yo-kai Watch: The Movie December 20, 2014 The first film of the Yo-Kai Watch franchise. Team Inoue
Pokémon the Movie: Hoopa and the Clash of Ages July 18, 2015 The 18th animated film of the Pokémon franchise. Team Kamei
Yo-kai Watch The Movie 2: King Enma and the 5 Stories, Nyan! December 19, 2015 The 2nd film of the Yo-kai Watch franchise. Team Koitabashi
Team Inoue
Pokémon the Movie: Volcanion and the Mechanical Marvel July 16, 2016 The 19th animated film of the Pokémon franchise. Team Kamei
Rudolf the Black Cat August 6, 2016 Based on the children's novel. Co-produced with Sprite Animation Studios. OLM Digital
Cyborg 009: Call of Justice November 25, 2016 Based on the manga by Shotaro Ishinomori. Co-produced with Signal.MD.
Yo-kai Watch The Movie 3: Soratobu Kujira to Double no Sekai no Daibōken da Nyan! December 17, 2016 Third film of the Yo-kai Watch franchise. Live-action/animated. Team Inoue
Team Miike
Eiga Kamisama Minarai: Himitsu no Cocotama: Kiseki o Okose ♪ Tepuru to Doki Doki Cocotama Kai April 28, 2017 First anime film of Kamisama Minarai: Himitsu no Cocotama. Team Yoshioka
Pokémon the Movie: I Choose You! July 15, 2017 The 20th animated film of the Pokémon franchise. Remake of the 1997 TV anime episode, "Pokémon, I Choose You!". Team Kato
Yo-kai Watch Shadowside: Oni-ō no Fukkatsu December 16, 2017 The 4th film of the Yo-kai Watch franchise. Team Inoue
Laplace's Witch May 4, 2018 Based on the novel by Keigo Higashino. Team Miike
Pokémon the Movie: The Power of Us July 13, 2018 The 21st animated film of the Pokemon franchise. Co-produced with Wit Studio. Team Kato
Eiga Drive Head: Tomica Hyper Rescue Kidō Kyūkyū Keisatsu August 24, 2018 The 1st film of the Tomica Hyper Rescue franchise.
Yo-kai Watch: Forever Friends December 14, 2018 The 5th film of the Yo-kai Watch franchise. Team Inoue
First Love May 17, 2019 Live-action Team Miike
Pokémon: Mewtwo Strikes Back—Evolution July 12, 2019 The 22nd animated film of the Pokemon franchise. The CGI remake of Pokémon: The First Movie, also known as Mewtwo Strikes Back. Co-produced with Sprite Animation Studios. OLM Digital
NiNoKuni August 23, 2019 Based on the Ni no Kuni video game series by Level-5. Team Kato [54]
Yo-kai Watch Jam: Yo-kai Academy Y: Can a Cat Become A Hero? December 13, 2019 The 6th film of the Yo-kai Watch franchise. Team Inoue [55]
Shinkansen Henkei Robo Shinkalion the Movie: Mirai Kara Kita Shinsoku no ALFA-X December 27, 2019 The 1st film of the Shinkalion franchise. [56]
Pokémon the Movie: Secrets of the Jungle December 25, 2020 The 23rd animated film of the Pokemon franchise. Team Kato [57]
Yo-kai Watch the Movie: How Nate and I Met, Nyan! November 17, 2021 The 7th film of the Yo-kai Watch franchise. Team Inoue
Catwoman: Hunted February 8, 2022 Direct-to-video film based on Catwoman.
Odd Taxi: In the Woods April 1, 2022 Based on the Odd Taxi anime series. Co-produced with P.I.C.S. Team Yoshioka [58]
Yo-kai Watch the Movie: Jibanyan vs. Komasan - The Big Amazing Battle, Nyan! January 13, 2023 The 8th film of the Yo-kai Watch franchise. Team Inoue [59]
Eiga Inazuma Eleven Sōshūhen: Densetsu no Kickoff December 27, 2024 Compilation film focusing on the matches in the Football Frontier arc of Inazuma Eleven. [60]
Untitled The Apothecary Diaries film December 2026 Original work based on a light novel by Natsu Hyūga. Co-produced with Toho Animation Studio. [52]

Original video/net animations

[edit]
Title Release start date Release end date Episodes Notes Team Ref.
Makeruna! Makendō March 25, 1995 March 25, 1995 1 Based on the game developed by Affect. Team Ota [6]
Kōryū no Mimi: Mina no Shō April 26, 1995 June 1, 1995 2 Adaptation of the novel series by Arimasa Osawa. [6]
Gunsmith Cats November 1, 1995 September 1, 1996 3 Adaptation of the seinen manga series by Kenichi Sonoda. Team Koitabashi [6]
Stainless Night December 22, 1995 March 22, 1996 2 Adaptation of the manga series by Kei Amagi. Produced by Pink Pineapple. Team Ota [6]
Power Dolls March 20, 1996 March 1, 1998 2 Only animated the second episode of the series. Team Koitabashi [6]
Wedding Peach DX December 24, 1996 July 25, 1997 4 Sequel to the Wedding Peach anime series. Team Ota [6]
Countdown: Akira March 28, 1997 August 29, 1997 3 Adaptation of the manga series by Hiroyuki Utatane. Produced by Pink Pineapple. Team Koitabashi [6]
I Dream of Mimi April 25, 1997 September 26, 1997 3 Adaptation of the seinen manga series by Kaoru Shintani. Produced by Pink Pineapple. Team Wasaki [6]
Game Tengoku: The Game Paradise! June 6, 1997 June 6, 1997 1 Based on the game of the same name. Bundled with the limited edition of the Sega Saturn release. Team Koitabashi
Be-yond February 27, 1998 May 29, 1998 2 Adaptation of the adult game by Silky's. Team Iguchi [6]
Queen Emeraldas June 10, 1998 December 18, 1999 4 An anime OVA that continues the Harlock franchise created by Leiji Matsumoto. OLM animated only the first two episodes of the series. Team Wasaki [6]
Pokémon Pikachu's Winter Vacation December 22, 1998 December 22, 1998 2 Short stories featuring Pikachu in the winter. Team Ota [6]
High School Aurabuster February 5, 1999 September 22, 1999 3 Adaptation of the light novel series by Mio Wakagi. Team Iguchi [6]
Pokémon Pikachu's Winter Vacation 2 December 22, 1999 December 22, 1999 2 More short stories featuring Pikachu in the winter. Team Koitabashi [6]
Steel Angel Kurumi Encore January 7, 2000 March 1, 2000 4 Four additional short stories of the Steel Angels. Team Wasaki [6]
Pokémon Pichu & Pikachu's Winter Vacation 2001 December 22, 2000 December 22, 2000 2 Short stories featuring Pichu and Pikachu in the winter. Team Koitabashi [6]
Steel Angel Kurumi Zero April 18, 2001 June 20, 2001 3 The side story of the Steel Angel Kurumi anime series. Team Wasaki [6]
Early Reins February 14, 2003 February 14, 2003 1 Tie-in to the cancelled game of the same name. Team Iguchi
Mizuiro (2003) April 25, 2003 July 10, 2003 2 All-ages adaptation of the visual novel by NekoNeko Soft. Team Iwasa [6]
Pokémon: The Mastermind of Mirage Pokémon April 29, 2006 April 29, 2006 1 The 10th anniversary special of the Pokémon series. Team Koitabashi
Gift: Eternal Rainbow April 29, 2007 April 29, 2007 1 Extra episode included in the 7th volume of the DVD release. Team Iwasa [6]
Let's Go! Tamagotchi November 29, 2007 February 14, 2008 12 Based on the Tamagotchi toyline by Bandai. Shorts released on Bandai Channel Kids. Team Ota
Tamagotchi Original Anime December 12, 2008 December 12, 2008 3 Based on the Tamagotchi toyline by Bandai. Shorts released on Bandai's YouTube channel. Team Kamei
Pokémon: Sing Meloetta: Search for the Rinka Berries July 3, 2012 July 3, 2012 1 Extra episode included in the August 2012 issue of Ciao.
Bee and PuppyCat November 6, 2014 November 28, 2016 10 Animated episodes 7–10. Team Sakurai [61]
Pokémon: Hoopa — The Mischief Pokémon June 19, 2015 June 19, 2015 1 Prologue to Pokémon the Movie: Hoopa and the Clash of Ages. Team Kamei
Kong: King of the Apes April 15, 2016 May 4, 2018 23 The third animated series in the King Kong franchise. Co-produced with Arad Animation, 41 Entertainment and Sprite Animation Studios. OLM Digital [62]
Pokémon Generations September 16, 2016 December 23, 2016 18 Animated moments from generations 1-6 of the mainline Pokémon titles. Celebration of the 20th anniversary of Pokemon. Team Kato [6]
Inazuma Eleven Outer Code November 4, 2016 August 19, 2017 6 A series of shorts that take place between Inazuma Eleven and Inazuma Eleven: Ares. Team Kawakita [63]
Tomica Hyper Rescue Drive Head Kidō Kyūkyū Keisatsu 2018 January 20, 2018 August 18, 2018 8 Sequel to Tomica Hyper Rescue Drive Head Kidō Kyūkyū Keisatsu.
Inazuma Eleven Reloaded April 5, 2018[j] April 5, 2018 1 Special prologue to Inazuma Elven: Ares. Team Kawakita
Beyblade Burst Rise April 5, 2019 March 27, 2020 52 Adaptation of the manga by Hiro Morita and sequel to Beyblade Burst Turbo. Team Abe [6]
Mono no Kami-sama Cocotama September 26, 2019 February 21, 2020 12 Spinoff of Kira Kira Happy Hirake! Cocotama in which Kokoro Yotsuba and Haruka Hoshinogawa don't appear. Team Yoshioka [64]
Beyblade Burst Surge April 3, 2020 March 19, 2021 52 Adaptation of the manga by Hiro Morita and sequel to Beyblade Burst Rise. Team Abe [65]
Zoids Wild Senki October 17, 2020 March 12, 2021 6 Related to Zoids Wild. OLM Digital
Beyblade Burst QuadDrive April 2, 2021 March 18, 2022 52 Adaptation of the manga by Hiro Morita and sequel to Beyblade Burst Surge. Team Masuda [6]
Pokémon Evolutions September 9, 2021 December 23, 2021 8 Animated moments from generations 1-8 of the mainline Pokémon titles. Celebration of the 25th anniversary of Pokemon. Team Kato [6]
Bee and PuppyCat: Lazy in Space September 6, 2022 September 6, 2022 16 Reboot of Bee and PuppyCat. Co-produced with Frederator Studios. Team Yoshioka [66]
Beyblade Burst QuadStrike April 3, 2023 December 2, 2023 26 Adaptation of the manga by Hiro Morita and sequel to Beyblade Burst QuadDrive. Team Masuda [67]
Hot Wheels Let's Race March 4, 2024 March 3, 2025 15 Based on the Hot Wheels toyline by Mattel. Co-produced with Mattel Television and Sprite Animation Studios. OLM Digital [68]

Music videos

[edit]
Title Release date Artist(s) Notes Team Ref.
White Reflection March 13, 1997 Two-Mix
Koi No Jellyfish July 9, 2003 Kōji Kikkawa Produced some of the CGI. OLM Digital [6]
Good Morning August 25, 2008 Kanye West Directed by Takashi Murakami. Team Ota [69]
Candy Pop January 12, 2018 Twice Team Kato [70]
It'll be fine! January 13, 2022 Megumi Toyoguchi Part of Project Pochama, which aimed to promote Piplup across Japan. [71]

Video games

[edit]
Title Release date Publisher(s) Notes Team Ref.
Bubble Bobble Part 2 March 5, 1993 Taito Developed the 2D graphics.
Sugoi Hebereke March 31, 1994 Sunsoft Developed the 2D graphics.
Kid Klown in Crazy Chase September 10, 1994 Nintendo (EU)
Kemco (WW)
In charge of game setting production. [6]
Melty Lancer ~Ginga Shōjo Keisatsu 2086~ March 22, 1996 Imagineer Opening, ending, and cutscene animation. [6]
Kid Klown in Crazy Chase 2: Love Love Hani Soudatsusen December 6, 1996 Kemco Opening and ending animation. Team Ota [6]
Game Tengoku June 6, 1997 Jaleco Animation for the number 0 bundle. Team Koitabashi [6]
Sōkū no Tsubasa ~GOTHAWORLD~ November 6, 1997 Micronet Opening, ending, and cutscene animation. [6]
Texthoth Ludo ~Arcana Senki~ December 18, 1997 Pai Opening and ending animation. Team Wasaki [6]
Kunoichi Torimonochō February 5, 1998 CRI Middleware Opening, ending, and cutscene animation. Team Koitabashi [6]
YAKATA Nightmare Project June 4, 1998 ASK Opening, ending, and cutscene animation. Team Iguchi [6]
Dungeon Shōtenkai October 29, 1998 Kodansha Opening animation. Team Koitabashi [6]
To Heart March 25, 1999[k] Aquaplus Opening animation. Team Wasaki [6]
70's Robot Anime Geppy-X May 27, 1999 Aroma Cutscene animation. [6]
Addie No Okurimono - To Moze from Addie February 3, 2000 Sony Computer Entertainment In-game animation. Team Koitabashi [6]
Tobaku Mokushiroku Kaiji May 25, 2000 Kodansha In-game animation. [6]
Pokémon Puzzle League September 25, 2000 Nintendo Cutscene animation. Team Ota
Naniwa Kin'yūdō - Aoki Yūji no Seken Munazan'yō July 19, 2001 Kodansha In-game animation. Team Koitabashi [6]
Pokémon Channel July 18, 2003 The Pokémon Company (JP)
Nintendo (WW)
Animated the "Pichu Bros. in Party Panic" episode.
Densetsu no Starfy 2 September 5, 2003 Nintendo Partial CGI production. OLM Digital [6]
Inazuma Eleven August 22, 2008 Level-5
Nintendo (PAL)
Opening and cutscene animation. Team Koitabashi [6]
Inazuma Eleven 2 October 1, 2009 Level-5 (JP)
Nintendo (EU)
Opening and cutscene animation. [6]
Inazuma Eleven 3 July 1, 2010 Opening and cutscene animation.
Little Battlers Experience June 16, 2011 Level-5 Opening and cutscene animation. Team Koitabashi
Team Inoue
Inazuma Eleven Strikers July 16, 2011 Level-5 (JP)
Nintendo (EU)
Opening animation. Team Koitabashi
Inazuma Eleven GO December 15, 2011 Level-5 (JP)
Nintendo (PAL)
Cutscene animation.
Little Battlers Experience W October 18, 2012 Level-5 Opening and cutscene animation. Team Inoue
Inazuma Eleven GO 2: Chrono Stone December 13, 2012 Level-5 (JP)
Nintendo (EU)
Opening and cutscene animation. Team Koitabashi
Inazuma Eleven GO Strikers 2013 December 20, 2012 Level-5 Opening animation.
Yo-kai Watch July 11, 2013 Level-5 (JP)
Nintendo (WW)
Opening and cutscene animation. Team Inoue
Little Battlers Experience Wars October 31, 2013 Level-5 Opening and cutscene animation.
Inazuma Eleven GO: Galaxy December 5, 2013 Opening and cutscene animation. Team Koitabashi
Yo-kai Watch 2 July 10, 2014 Level-5 (JP)
Nintendo (WW)
Opening and cutscene animation. Team Inoue
Yo-kai Watch Blasters July 11, 2015 Opening animation.
Yo-kai Watch 3 July 16, 2016 Opening animation.
Pokémon Sun and Moon November 18, 2016 The Pokémon Company (JP)
Nintendo (WW)
Illustration support.
Yo-kai Watch Busters 2: Secret of the Legendary Treasure Bambalaya December 16, 2017 Level-5 Opening animation. Team Inoue
Tabe-O-Ja November 28, 2020 Bandai Cutscene animation. Team Yoshioka [72]
Megaton Musashi November 11, 2021 Level-5 Cutscene animation. Team Inoue
Megaton Musashi X December 16, 2022 Cutscene animation.
Megaton Musashi W April 25, 2024 Cutscene animation.
Ride Kamens May 30, 2024 Bandai Transformation sequence animation. Team Kato [73]

Video game trailers/pilot films

[edit]
Title Release date Publisher Notes Team Ref.
Pokémon Black 2 and White 2 August 8, 2012 The Pokémon Company (JP)
Nintendo (WW)
Animated trailer to promote Pokémon Black 2 and White 2. Team Kato [74]
Pokémon Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire November 16, 2014 Animated trailer to promote Pokémon Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire. [75]
Inazuma Eleven: Ares Game and TV Animation Pilot Film July 27, 2016 Level-5 Pilot film for the Inazuma Eleven: Ares video game (now known as Inazuma Eleven: Victory Road) and TV anime. Team Koitabashi [76]
Megaton Musashi Pilot Film July 27, 2016 Pilot film for the Megaton Musashi cross media project. [77]
Inazuma Eleven: Ares Chō Shinsaku Eizō: Football Frontier-hen March 27, 2017 Promotional trailer for the Inazuma Eleven: Ares video game and TV anime. [78]
Pokémon Masters June 27, 2019 DeNA Animated trailer to promote Pokémon Masters. Team Kato [79]

Live action TV series

[edit]
Title First run start date First run end date Episodes Notes Team Ref.
New Oishinbo January 20, 2007 November 14, 2009 3 Adaptation of the manga series written by Tetsu Kariya. Team Miyagawa [6]
Tales of Night-Prowling Ghosts February 3, 2007 March 31, 2007 9+3 unaired episodes[l] Adaptation of the manga series by Ichiko Ima. Co-produced with D.N. Dream Partners and VAP, Inc. Produced the CGI. [6]
Phone Braver 7 April 2, 2008 March 18, 2009 45+3 specials Co-produced with Production I.G. [6]
Tenchijin January 4, 2009 November 22, 2009 47 Produced the opening CG, as well as the castle and crowd scenes. OLM Digital [6]
QP October 5, 2011 December 28, 2011 12 Adaptation of the manga by Hiroshi Takahashi. Co-produced with AX-ON. [6]
Shinshū Sangaku Keiji Michihara Denkichi June 6, 2012 October 28, 2015 4 Co-produced with TV Tokyo and BS TV Tokyo. Team Miyagawa
Idol × Warrior Miracle Tunes! April 2, 2017 March 25, 2018 51 First entry in the Girls x Heroine! Series. Team Miike [6]
Magical × Heroine Magimajo Pures! April 1, 2018 March 24, 2019 51 Second entry in the Girls x Heroine! Series. [6]
Secret × Warrior Phantomirage! April 7, 2019 June 28, 2020 64 Third entry in the Girls x Heroine! Series. [6]
Police × Heroine Lovepatrina! July 26, 2020 June 27, 2021 48 Fourth entry in the Girls x Heroine! Series. [6]
Bittomo × Heroine Kirameki Powers! July 11, 2021 June 26, 2022 50 Fifth entry in the Girls x Heroine! Series. [80]
RizSta -Top of Artists!- April 10, 2022 December 25, 2022 38 Sixth entry in the Girls x Heroine! Series. [6]
Keibuho Daimajin July 7, 2023 September 1, 2023 8 Adaptation of the manga by Takashi Nagasaki. Produced by TV Asahi, assisted production with Rakueisha. [81]
Shin Abarenbō Shōgun January 4, 2025 January 4, 2025 1 Co-produced with Toei Kyoto Studio. [82]
Tokyo Holiday April 4, 2025 June 20, 2025 12 Co-produced with TV Tokyo. [83]
Kamen no Ninja Akakage October 26, 2025 TBA TBA Adaptation of the manga series by Mitsuteru Yokoyama. Co-produced with Toei Kyoto Studio. [84]

Live action net series

[edit]
Title First run start date First run end date Episodes Notes Team Ref.
Tabe-O-Ja November 4, 2020 November 26, 2020 4 Tie-in to the video game of the same name. Co-produced with L'espace Film. Team Miike [85]
Connect December 7, 2022 December 7, 2022 6 Based on the webtoon by Shin Dae-sung. Produced the VFX. OLM Digital [6]
Gudetama: An Eggcellent Adventure December 13, 2022 December 13, 2022 10 Based on the famous Sanrio character. Co-produced with L'espace Film. [6]
Midnight March 6, 2024 March 6, 2024 1 Based on the manga series by Osamu Tezuka. Team Miike [86]

Specials/commercials

[edit]
  • Pac's Scary Halloween (2015)
  • Santa Pac's Merry Berry Day (2015)
  • RYOTEI-NO-AJI "My Whimsical Little Boy" (Team Kato) (2023)[87]
  • Shaeb Abtal (2025)[88]

Distribution/dubbing

[edit]

Notes

[edit]

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia
from Grokipedia
OLM, Inc. (Japanese: 株式会社オー・エル・エム, Kabushiki-gaisha Ō Eru Emu), commonly known as OLM, is a Japanese animation studio specializing in anime television series, films, and related media, headquartered in the Setagaya ward of Tokyo.[1] Established in June 1994 as the successor to the earlier entity Oriental Light and Magic—formed in 1990 by former staff from Studio Gallop and OB Planning—it has grown into one of Japan's prominent animation production companies.[2] Since December 2015, OLM has operated as a majority-owned subsidiary of Imagica Group, following an acquisition valued at approximately 2.858 billion yen (US$23.58 million) for a 51.33% stake.[3] The studio is best known for its extensive work on The Pokémon Company's flagship anime franchise, beginning with the original Pokémon series in 1997 and continuing through ongoing productions like Pokémon Horizons: The Series (2023–present), along with numerous theatrical films, specials, and spin-offs such as Pokémon Chronicles.[4] This partnership has made OLM a cornerstone of the global Pokémon media empire, contributing to its animation of over 1,200 episodes and multiple feature-length movies. Beyond Pokémon, OLM has produced a diverse array of popular titles targeting children and young audiences, including the sports anime Inazuma Eleven (2008–2014), the battle-top spinning series Beyblade Burst (2016–2022), and the supernatural comedy Yo-kai Watch (2014–2018, with spin-offs).[1] In recent years, OLM has expanded into more mature and acclaimed projects, such as the mystery drama Odd Taxi (2021), the historical fantasy The Apothecary Diaries (2023–present), and the slice-of-life adaptation Komi Can't Communicate (2021–2022), demonstrating its versatility across genres.[5] The studio also maintains subsidiaries like OLM Digital, Inc. (founded 1997 for CG production) and OLM Asia Sdn. Bhd. (established in 2017 in Malaysia for 2D/3D animation and VFX), supporting its global operations and innovative approaches, including the ANIMINS project for AI-assisted workflows launched by OLM Digital in December 2024.[6][7][8] With a focus on high-quality animation and long-term franchise stewardship, OLM continues to influence the anime industry through its production teams and collaborative projects.[9]

History

Establishment

OLM was founded on October 3, 1990, as Oriental Light and Magic by Toshiaki Okuno, who served as its first president, along with key collaborators Shūkichi Kanda and Kunihiko Yuyama.[5] The studio emerged from a group of experienced animators seeking to create original content inspired by the innovative visual effects techniques of Industrial Light & Magic, adapting the concept to the Japanese animation industry.[10] Initially based in Setagaya, Tokyo, the company started with a small team dedicated to animation production.[11] In June 1994, the studio was restructured and renamed OLM, Inc., emphasizing its core emphasis on animation rather than broader light and magic effects.[1] This change marked a formal incorporation that solidified its operational foundation in the competitive anime sector. At this stage, OLM primarily engaged in subcontracting animation tasks for established studios, building expertise and resources before venturing into fully independent projects.[10] During its formative years, OLM operated from modest facilities in Tokyo, focusing on honing production capabilities through collaborative work. This period laid the groundwork for later expansions, including the establishment of OLM Digital in 1997 to incorporate computer-assisted animation techniques.[11]

Key developments

In the mid-1990s, OLM expanded its capabilities by establishing OLM Digital in 1997 as a subsidiary focused on integrating computer-generated (CG) animation into its productions, enabling the studio to handle more complex visual effects and hybrid 2D-CG workflows.[6] This move supported OLM's growing portfolio, particularly in action-oriented series requiring dynamic sequences. A significant milestone came in 1997 when OLM began its long-term collaboration with The Pokémon Company on the Pokémon anime series, starting with the original episodes that aired from April 1, 1997.[12] This partnership, which continues to the present, provided substantial revenue stability and elevated OLM's global reputation, as the franchise became one of the most enduring and commercially successful anime properties, with OLM handling animation for over 1,200 episodes across multiple generations. Financial and operational security was further bolstered in 2015 through acquisition by Imagica Robot Holdings (now Imagica Group), which acquired a 51.33% majority stake in OLM for approximately 2.858 billion yen (US$23.58 million), making it a majority-owned subsidiary within the group's media and entertainment division.[3] The deal, finalized in April 2016, granted OLM access to enhanced resources for production scaling and technological advancements in post-production. In 2024, OLM underwent a leadership transition when founder Toshiaki Okuno stepped down as president and representative director, with Hideki Kama, previously vice president, assuming the role effective April 1 to guide the studio's future direction.[9][11] By 2025, OLM demonstrated growth in international co-productions through expanded subsidiaries like OLM Asia (established 2017 in Malaysia) and OLM (Thailand) Co., Ltd. (opened October 2024), facilitating collaborations on global projects.[11] This trend is exemplified by the announcement of The Apothecary Diaries Season 3, a co-production with Toho Animation Studio set to premiere in October 2026 as a split-cour series, adapting the popular light novel with international streaming distribution.[13]

Organization

Corporate structure

OLM, Inc. operates as a subsidiary of the Imagica Group, which acquired a controlling 51.33% stake in the studio in December 2015 to bolster its animation and visual effects capabilities.[3] This structure positions OLM as a key entity within the group's media and entertainment portfolio, emphasizing 2D animation, CG production, and related services. The studio maintains its headquarters at the Keihan Setagaya Building in Setagaya-ku, Tokyo, Japan, facilitating centralized operations while supporting global outreach through strategic partnerships.[11] Leadership at OLM is headed by Hideki Kama, who has served as President and Representative Director since April 1, 2024, following the resignation of former president Toshiaki Okuno.[9] Kama, previously Vice President, oversees strategic direction alongside a board that includes Vice President and Director Chikara Ōkubo, as well as other executives such as Misako Saka (Director and President of OLM Digital), Tatsuo Yotsukura (Director), and part-time auditors like Yasuo Onishi.[11] This executive team manages governance and integration with Imagica Group's broader objectives in content creation and distribution. As of March 2025, OLM, Inc. employs 204 staff members, while its affiliated OLM Digital, Inc. has 138 employees, contributing to an overall animation workforce of approximately 400 across the core group entities.[11] This operational scale supports the studio's capacity for high-volume production, including ongoing series and international collaborations. OLM's financial performance is integrated into Imagica Group's reports, with the studio's revenue streams primarily generated from anime production contracts and licensing fees, particularly from long-running franchises like Pokémon.[14] The group as a whole reported trailing 12-month revenue of approximately $636 million as of March 31, 2025, reflecting diversification into international markets through licensing deals and partnerships that enhance global distribution of OLM's content.[15]

Production teams and subsidiaries

OLM maintains six primary production lines to facilitate efficient parallel project management across its animation pipeline: TEAM INOUE, TEAM YOSHIOKA, TEAM OGASAWARA, TEAM IWASAKI, TEAM KATO, and a dedicated digital/CG team. These teams specialize in distinct aspects of animation production, enabling the studio to oversee multiple projects concurrently without resource overlap. For instance, TEAM YOSHIOKA focuses on extended long-form series, such as the ongoing Pokémon anime franchise.[2] The studio's subsidiaries support specialized operations and global expansion. OLM Digital, established in 1997 as the primary CG division, integrates closely with the main studio to produce hybrid 2D/3D animations, employing 138 staff as of March 2025. OLM Ventures, Inc., established in June 2017 in Tokyo, and OLM Music, Inc., also established in June 2017 in Tokyo, handle venture investments and music production related to OLM's projects, respectively. OLM Asia SDN BHD, based in Cyberjaya, Malaysia since December 2017, manages Southeast Asian operations including 2D, 3D, and VFX work, with 66 employees reported as of March 2023. OLM (Thailand) Co., Ltd., established in October 2024 in Bangkok, supports regional animation and production activities. OLM, Inc. (USA), established in May 2002 in Los Angeles, aids international co-productions. Viracocha Inc., a smaller entity in Japan established in March 1997, handles short-form content and graphic design consulting, maintaining 7 employees as of March 2023. Inter-subsidiary collaborations, particularly between OLM Digital and the core teams, enhance technical capabilities for complex projects. Employee figures for subsidiaries other than OLM Digital reflect data as of March 2023, with limited public updates available post-2023.[11][16][7]

Works

Television series

OLM has produced approximately 50 anime television series since its inception, with a strong emphasis on shōnen genres broadcast primarily on networks like TV Tokyo.[17] These series often feature episodic storytelling tailored for weekly airings, incorporating action, adventure, and character development arcs that span multiple seasons.[1] The studio's most prominent television production is the Pokémon anime, which premiered in 1997 and remains ongoing as of 2025, surpassing 1,340 episodes across 28 seasons. Initially directed by Kunihiko Yuyama, the series follows protagonist Ash Ketchum and his Pokémon companion Pikachu on a quest to become a Pokémon Master, with each season exploring new regions, gym battles, and league tournaments.[18] Production involves structured episode formats, including 20-22 minute main stories supplemented by shorter segments, and has been adapted internationally with dubs in over 30 languages to reach global audiences. OLM handles the animation through rotating production teams to maintain the weekly cycle, such as Team Ota for early seasons (1997–2006), Team Iguchi (2006–2009), and Team Kato (2010–2024), ensuring consistent output amid the series' longevity.[19] Recent projects include Hell Teacher: Jigoku Sensei Nūbē (2025), a supernatural school comedy.[1] Other key long-running series include Inazuma Eleven (2008–2011), a 127-episode soccer-themed action anime centered on young players mastering special techniques in tournaments, produced in collaboration with Level-5.[20] Yo-kai Watch (2014–2018), exceeding 200 episodes, depicts a boy summoning mischievous spirits via a magical watch, blending comedy and supernatural elements across its seasons.[21] More recently, Ninjala (2021–present) features over 180 episodes as of late 2025, following ninja trainees using gum-based weapons in competitive battles at an academy.[22] These productions highlight OLM's expertise in adapting game franchises to television, utilizing team-based workflows to rotate directors and animators for sustained quality in high-volume episodic formats.

Films

OLM's animated feature films primarily revolve around the Pokémon franchise, for which the studio has served as the lead animation production partner since the series' inception. From 1998 to the present, OLM has produced all 23 theatrical Pokémon films, each serving as self-contained extensions of the broader Pokémon universe while tying loosely to the ongoing television series. These productions, distributed in Japan by Toho, enable high-fidelity 2D animation, dynamic action sequences, and contributions from veteran voice actors like Rica Matsumoto as Ash Ketchum. The films have collectively generated substantial box office revenue, underscoring OLM's role in sustaining the franchise's global appeal through annual summer releases in Japan. Early films often exceeded ¥10 billion in domestic earnings, while later entries averaged around ¥4-5 billion.[1][4] A landmark example is Pokémon: The First Movie—Mewtwo Strikes Back (1998), OLM's debut theatrical project, which introduced the cloned Pokémon Mewtwo and grossed ¥16.8 billion in Japan, marking it as one of the highest-earning anime films of its era and establishing the template for future entries with its blend of adventure, ethical dilemmas, and Pokémon battles. Subsequent films, such as Pokémon: The Movie 2000 (1999) and Pokémon 3: The Movie (2000), maintained this momentum, often exceeding ¥10 billion in domestic earnings while incorporating evolving animation techniques like enhanced cel-shading and digital compositing. By the 2020s, releases like Pokémon the Movie: Secrets of the Jungle (2020) demonstrated OLM's adaptation to modern tools, including partial CGI integration, amid shifting franchise narratives post-Ash era. Overall, the Pokémon films account for the majority of OLM's theatrical output, with their consistent performance—averaging over ¥5 billion per film in Japan—highlighting the studio's expertise in franchise-driven storytelling.[23] Beyond Pokémon, OLM has contributed to a select number of standalone animated feature films, exceeding 40 theatrical releases when including franchise extensions. Notable examples include Professor Layton and the Eternal Diva (2009), a mystery-adventure adaptation of the Nintendo puzzle series, where OLM handled full animation production in collaboration with Level-5, resulting in a film that grossed over ¥1.2 billion in Japan through its intricate plot and orchestral score. Similarly, Inazuma Eleven: The Movie—The Ultimate Force Team Ogre Attacks! (2010) showcased OLM's sports anime prowess, co-produced with Level-5 and distributed by Toho, earning approximately ¥1.5 billion domestically by expanding the soccer-themed narrative with high-energy matches and supernatural elements. More recent efforts, such as Ni no Kuni (2019), a fantasy epic based on the Studio Ghibli-influenced video game, involved OLM in key animation sequences alongside Production I.G, achieving ¥540 million in box office returns while emphasizing hand-drawn visuals and emotional depth. These projects illustrate OLM's versatility in non-franchise works, often leveraging partnerships for broader creative scope and commercial viability.[24][25][26]

Original video and net animations

OLM has produced a variety of original video animations (OVAs) since the early 1990s, focusing on direct-to-video releases that allowed for experimental storytelling and targeted audiences without the constraints of weekly television schedules. These OVAs typically range from 1 to 6 episodes, emphasizing self-contained narratives or extensions of popular franchises, such as the action-oriented Gunsmith Cats (1995–1996, 3 episodes), where OLM handled full animation production for the story of two female vigilantes in Chicago. Another early example is Early Reins (1992, 3 episodes), a Western-themed adventure series that showcased OLM's capabilities in genre-blending animation shortly after the studio's founding.[27][28] In addition to OVAs, OLM has expanded into original net animations (ONAs) and streaming-exclusive content, particularly from the 2010s onward, leveraging digital platforms for distribution. Notable among these is Pokémon Generations (2016, 18 episodes), a web series produced by OLM that reimagines key moments from the Pokémon video game lore through short, episodic vignettes released on the official Pokémon YouTube channel. Similarly, Gudetama: An Eggcellent Adventure (2022, 10 episodes), a Netflix original fully animated by OLM, follows the lazy egg character in whimsical adventures, highlighting the studio's versatility in cute, family-friendly streaming formats.[29][30] More recent collaborations include co-production on Cardfight!! Vanguard, OLM contributed to web-exclusive episodes and promotional shorts starting from 2011, including official animations on Bushiroad's YouTube channel that tie into the card game franchise's ongoing narrative. These net animations often feature shorter episode counts (1–26) and are optimized for online viewing.[31][32] Overall, OLM's output in this category exceeds 20 titles, prioritizing spin-offs, experimental shorts, and platform-specific content that complements their broader television work, such as Pokémon-related OVAs like Pocket Monsters: Pikachu no Fuyuyasumi (1998–1999, 4 episodes), which served as holiday specials released directly to video. This approach enables creative freedom in formats like the 12-episode Bobobo-bo Bo-bobo shorts (2007), though many projects involve partial contributions like in-between animation to support innovative storytelling.[1]

Video games and trailers

OLM has contributed animation to numerous video games, with a focus on in-game cutscenes, opening sequences, and promotional trailers, often integrating 2D and 3D techniques through its OLM Digital division. The studio's work emphasizes seamless transitions between game play and anime-style storytelling, enhancing player immersion in franchises like Pokémon and Level-5 titles. Collaborations with developers such as Level-5 have been central, enabling OLM to produce content that aligns with the anime adaptations of these games.[1] In the Pokémon series, OLM animated promotional trailers and intros for several entries, including the full animated trailer for Pokémon Black Version 2 and White Version 2 in 2012, which featured key characters and plot elements to build anticipation for the Nintendo DS release. For Pokémon Sword and Shield (2019), OLM provided animated intro sequences and supplementary promotional videos that highlighted the Galar region's trainers and Pokémon in dynamic, hand-drawn styles. These efforts, totaling contributions to over 15 games across Nintendo consoles and mobile platforms, underscore OLM's role in bridging the video game and anime mediums within the franchise. For Level-5's Yo-kai Watch series (2013–present), OLM handled promotional trailers and pilot animations for multiple game installments, such as Yo-kai Watch 2 and Yo-kai Watch Blasters, using vibrant 2D animation to depict Yo-kai interactions and gameplay mechanics. These trailers often incorporated elements from the concurrent anime series, creating a unified brand experience. Similarly, OLM produced the pilot film for Inazuma Eleven: Ares (later retitled Inazuma Eleven: Victory Road) in 2016, a three-minute animated short that previewed the soccer-themed storyline and character designs for the upcoming console game. OLM Digital's 3D capabilities were utilized in cutscenes for these titles, allowing for fluid motion in action sequences like battles and matches.[33][34]

Music videos and commercials

OLM has animated several music videos for J-pop artists and international musicians, leveraging its expertise in character-driven storytelling to complement song themes. An early highlight is the 1997 music video for TWO-MIX's "White Reflection," directed by Kazuya Murata, where animated band members pursue a enigmatic blue light across urban and fantastical landscapes, tying into the track's role as an ending theme for Mobile Suit Gundam Wing. In a cross-cultural project, OLM provided animation for Kanye West's 2008 track "Good Morning" from the album Graduation, under director Takashi Murakami's guidance; the video follows the anthropomorphic Dropout Bear overcoming bizarre hurdles like giant pencils and falling pants en route to graduation.[35] The studio's Pokémon franchise has also featured prominently in OLM's music video output, blending franchise characters with promotional tunes. The inaugural opening theme "Mezase Pokémon Master" (Aim to Be a Pokémon Master) by Rica Matsumoto received full animated treatment in 1997, depicting Ash Ketchum's journey to become a Pokémon Master and setting the visual tone for the long-running series.[36] More recently, in 2022, OLM animated "It'll Be Fine!," a medley of Diamond and Pearl ending themes starring Piplup, showcasing the water-type Pokémon's adorable antics in a feel-good celebration of the generation.[37] In addition to music videos, OLM has contributed to commercials, focusing on animated spots that integrate familiar characters or original narratives for brand promotion. A key example is the ongoing TV commercial series for Marukome's "Ryotei no Aji" (Taste of a High-Class Restaurant) miso soup products, co-produced with ROBOT; the 11th installment, released in 2023, humorously portrays a chef's son outshining his father in replicating restaurant flavors at home.[38] OLM also created a short promotional animation in 2025 for Saudi National Day, co-produced with Manga Productions, highlighting cultural motifs to commemorate the kingdom's founding.[39] These short-form projects often draw on characters from OLM's television series for broader appeal, such as Pokémon tie-ins in promotional content. Overall, OLM's work in this area emphasizes efficient, engaging animation to support quick-release media like advertisements and specials.

Live-action series and specials

OLM's involvement in live-action productions has primarily been through its subsidiary OLM Digital, which specializes in computer-generated imagery (CGI) and visual effects to support hybrid projects blending practical filming with digital enhancements.[6] Established in 1995, OLM Digital has contributed to approximately a dozen live-action films since the mid-2000s, often collaborating with prominent Japanese directors on action-oriented and genre films. These efforts represent a niche extension of OLM's core animation expertise, focusing on seamless integration of CGI elements like compositing, digital painting, and special effects rather than full production oversight.[11] A key example is the 2008 tokusatsu television series Phone Braver 7 (also known as K-tai Sousakan 7), a 45-episode cyberpunk detective drama co-produced by OLM alongside Production I.G and broadcast on TV Tokyo. In this series, OLM Digital handled all CGI production, creating transforming robot characters and digital interfaces that augmented the live-action footage of high school protagonists combating internet-based crimes using cell phone-themed gadgets. The show also featured three special episodes, extending the narrative with additional high-stakes investigations and enhanced visual effects. This project marked one of OLM's few direct co-productions in live-action television, emphasizing tokusatsu elements like practical stunts combined with digital transformations.[40][41] In feature films, OLM Digital's contributions have frequently supported director Takashi Miike's works through the dedicated OLM Team Miike, which provides CGI design, compositing, and visual effects supervision. For instance, in the 2007 film Crows Zero, a high school gang drama, OLM Digital managed CGI production to enhance fight sequences and environmental effects. Similarly, the 2009 adaptation Yatterman utilized OLM's CGI design and coordination for its comedic action set pieces, including vehicle transformations and exaggerated stunts. Other notable collaborations include Sukiyaki Western Django (2007), where OLM handled visual effects for its spaghetti Western-style gunfights, and As the Gods Will (2014), providing full CG production for surreal horror elements like giant animated dolls in a deadly game scenario. These projects, often co-produced with studios like Toei or Amuse, highlight OLM's role in elevating live-action visuals without dominating the narrative.[6][10] Further examples from the 2010s include Ninja Kids!!! (2011), with OLM Digital's CG production for ninja acrobatics and historical fantasy sequences, and Blade of the Immortal (2017), where the team supervised compositing for graphic sword fights and supernatural resurrections in Miike's samurai adaptation. In Terraformars (2016), OLM contributed VFX cooperation for cockroach mutant battles in a sci-fi horror context. Overall, OLM's live-action output remains limited to 10-15 credited projects, underscoring a strategic focus on technical support rather than standalone series or specials, frequently partnering with tokusatsu specialists to merge animation techniques with real-world action.[6]

Dubbing and distribution

OLM engages in the international distribution of its animated works through licensing agreements with global partners, ensuring wide accessibility beyond Japan. A prominent example is the Pokémon franchise, for which OLM serves as the primary animation studio. The Pokémon Company International handles the licensing, merchandising, and distribution of the anime series and films outside Asia, reaching audiences in numerous countries worldwide via television broadcasts, streaming platforms, and home video releases.[42] The studio collaborates with major streaming services to facilitate global release of its productions. For instance, The Apothecary Diaries, co-produced by OLM and TOHO Animation Studio, is licensed by Crunchyroll for international streaming, where it has garnered significant viewership following its premiere. Netflix has also acquired rights to the series, enabling dubbed and subtitled versions for subscribers in multiple regions, including North America and Europe.[43][44] These partnerships extend to other OLM titles, such as upcoming projects like Nyaight of the Living Cat, which will be distributed by Crunchyroll and Sony Pictures Entertainment in Asia and Japan. Distribution efforts often include localization services like subtitling and dubbing into local languages, managed by the licensing partners to adapt content for diverse markets. This approach has contributed to the global success of OLM's portfolio, with series like Pokémon maintaining a presence in over 160 countries through coordinated international releases.[45]

References

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