Buzz
Crunchyroll's calculations reveal that for every 5 anime premiered in 2021, one was an isekai. The isekai genre, marked by fantastical reincarnation, is evolving more dynamically than ever and anticipates a larger influx in 2022.
Recently, Crunchyroll released insightful analytics on anime debuts in 2021 on this popular entertainment platform. A total of 86 anime graced Crunchyroll's screen last year, with impressive numbers in the isekai genre.
The most surprising revelation is that around 20% of the anime falls under the isekai category. This unexpected statistic signifies the continued robust growth of the isekai genre. Currently, numerous new isekai anime projects are in progress, and global audiences are actively embracing these isekai titles, indicating that the percentage is poised to rise further. For at least the next 2 years, with sequels like Mushoku Tensei, The Rising of the Shield Hero, and Moonlit Worlds, isekai will remain a leading genre in the Japanese anime industry.
In addition to the above information, Crunchyroll also compiled data revealing that out of the 86 aired anime, a significant 2/3 had male protagonists. Female-led anime accounted for only 30%, while the remaining percentage belonged to gender-neutral main characters—a relatively recent trend in recent years.
According to Crunchyroll's provided data, 47% of the aired anime were adaptations from manga, 20% from light novels, and 17% from mobile games. Viewer age demographics were also meticulously analyzed to identify the current anime audience, with the teenage audience (aged 13-18) constituting a whopping 67%, the highest among all age groups. In 2021, the number of children watching anime was lower than the number of adult viewers.
It's essential to note that these figures are calculated based on anime releases in 2021 on the Crunchyroll platform, so their accuracy isn't absolute. However, we can be certain that the isekai genre is progressively developing, and the primary audience for anime remains predominantly young enthusiasts. This aligns well with the theme of venturing into different worlds, undertaking tasks, and pursuing dreams—a topic that resonates with the adventurous spirit of the youth, those who seek novelty and captivating adventures.
What are your thoughts on the isekai genre claiming 20% of the total anime releases in 2021, with powerful blockbusters leading the way? Will this trend continue in 2022? Feel free to share your opinions!
