Oct 15
Aniplex released the second character promotional video for Fate/EXTRA Record on October 15, focusing on the Masters and Servants of the enemy faction that players will fight in the Moon Holy Grail War. The video, titled RIVAL's SIDE, introduces Shinji Matou, Alice, Run Ru-kun, Julius B. Harwey, Dan Blackmore, Monji Gatou, Leonardo B. Harwey, Rani VIII, and Rin Tohsaka, along with the Servants who fight alongside them. Aniplex also announced a special hands-on event in Tokyo on November 7 and 8, where participants can play a broader portion of the game than in previous demos. Each 90-minute session invites 30 people by lottery, and attendees receive a not-for-sale clear file featuring the key visual. The game launches January 28 for Nintendo Switch 2, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, and PC via Steam. The standard edition is priced at 8,910 yen including tax. Pre-release promotion includes a fan kit and seven planned updates.
May 19
Episode 6 of Re:ZERO -Starting Life in Another World- Season 4 focuses on combat and character development as the party faces Reid, the original Sword Saint. The episode features two rounds of Reid versus Julius and one round of Reid versus Emilia, with the animation serving as eye candy for the action quota. The central dilemma is that every member of the party must defeat Reid to proceed to the next floor of the tower, including Subaru, Anastasia, Meili, Ram, Rem, and Julius. However, Reid is willing to adjust the rules, suggesting that overcoming him requires intellect rather than sheer strength. The battles also advance character arcs: Emilia's sheltered nature causes her to not register Reid's sexual harassment, surprising him and allowing her a clean hit. Julius's fight explores his lifelong status as second best compared to Reinhard, and his pride in being chosen by Anastasia-a memory now only he retains. The episode draws parallels to Subaru and Julius's fight from the first season, with Julius emulating Subaru's earlier absurd proclamation and willingness to accept consequences. A staircase scene metaphorically depicts Subaru supporting Julius rather than carrying him, acknowledging Julius's need to walk his own path with help, similar to how Rem once helped Subaru.