VIZ Media Announces Black Torch Anime Production

Author : Sebastian Apr 28,2025

Alongside sharing the exciting news that a Black Torch anime is officially in production at VIZ Media, IGN has the exclusive first look at its trailer.

VIZ Media made this thrilling announcement at its Emerald City Comic Con panel, where the trailer debuted, showcasing Jiro Azuma in his stealth uniform. He's accompanied by his powerful mononoke, Rago, perched on his shoulder. The trailer also teases a mysterious dark figure reflected in the cityscape, hinting at the impending dangers.

PlayFor those new to the series, *Black Torch* was crafted by Tsuyoshi Yakaki and originally serialized in Jump SQ. and Shonen Jump+ from 2017 to 2018. Here's the official synopsis to bring you up to speed on the upcoming anime:

"A new era of ninja battles begins," the synopsis declares. "Jiro, a descendant of a long line of ninja, has been trained by his grandfather in the ancient warrior art of the shinobi. Jiro possesses a unique gift for communicating with animals. However, his life takes a dramatic turn after an encounter in the forest with an injured black cat named Rago. But appearances can be deceiving...

"Rago is no ordinary cat; he is the legendary Black Star of Doom, a mononoke of immense power. As other mononoke emerge from the shadows, drawn to Rago's strength, the covert Bureau of Espionage steps in to combat these dark spirits. Everyone has their own motives regarding Rago's powers. But Jiro and Rago are prepared. A fierce shinobi battle between boy and mononoke is about to erupt!"

Black Torch Manga Art. Image Credit: VIZ
For more, take a look at this special drawing by Takaki from the panel, celebrating this significant milestone for Black Torch. (Link will be added once available.)

“I’ve been supervising the settings and storyboards, and I feel it’s been recreated into something even better, while still fully respecting the original story," Takaki said. "A new BLACK TORCH has been brought to life, now with voices, sounds, movement, and color.”

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