Yoshitaka Amano Announces Original Anime 'ZAN' at Anime Expo 2026

The original animation, titled 'ZAN', is based on over 300 pieces of Amano's original artwork.

The pilot film for 'ZAN' will premiere at Anime Expo 2026 in Los Angeles on July 3.

The story follows a young samurai named Zan who is transported from a battle in feudal Japan to a different world during the Sengoku period. He is guided by a mysterious girl named Uzume and fights alongside a mechanical lifeform called Panther. They confront a ruler named Rikka who controls the world's order through a life symbol called "Torope."

Directors are Ikeda Naru (Samurai Troopers, Gundam W, Inuyasha) and Yoshida Tetsu (Armored Trooper Votoms, Blue Comet SPT Layzner, Gundam SEED). Series composition is by Takahashi Ryosuke (Armored Trooper Votoms, Fang of the Sun Dougram, The Fable). Mecha design is by Okawara Kunio (Mobile Suit Gundam, Yatterman, King of Braves GaoGaiGar).

Amano is known for his character and visual concept design for Final Fantasy, as well as illustration work for Vampire Hunter D and Guin Saga.

The official site for 'ZAN' is at zan-amano.com. The site for Yoshitaka Amano Inc. is at yoshitakaamanoinc.com.

Source: PR Times via Yoshitaka Amano Inc.