Iconic Ninja Anime SASUKE Set for Definitive Blu-ray Release from AnimEigo This October

Anime history is on the cusp of a significant moment as AnimEigo proudly announces the definitive Blu-ray release of the legendary 1968 series, SASUKE. Scheduled for October 14, 2025, this marks the inaugural North American home media debut of the complete 29-episode saga, a truly groundbreaking achievement for fans and collectors.

This three-disc set promises a breathtaking visual upgrade, meticulously restored from its original film assets. This careful restoration breathes new life into Kiyoshi Ōnishi's directorial masterpiece, which is based on Sanpei Shirato's seminal manga. Adding to its immense appeal, the release features meticulously crafted new English subtitles and, for the very first time, an eagerly anticipated English dub. This ensures that a new generation can experience this classic, while veterans rediscover its enduring power.

A Gripping Tale of Loyalty and Vengeance

Set against the brutal backdrop of 17th-century Japan's tumultuous Sengoku period, SASUKE plunges viewers into a world defined by fierce loyalty and relentless vengeance. The narrative follows the young, eponymous ninja, Sasuke, whose life is irrevocably altered by Lord Tokugawa's ruthless campaign of conquest. After witnessing the tragic assassination of his mother and facing the presumed death of his father, the formidable Daisuke Ozaru, Sasuke embarks on a clandestine journey of rigorous training under his father's disguised tutelage. What unfolds is a dark, gripping tale renowned for its unflinching portrayal of war's harsh realities and profound emotional depth.

The series' profound influence on subsequent ninja narratives, notably inspiring global phenomena like Naruto, underscores its enduring legacy in animated storytelling. This historical context makes the Blu-ray release even more significant, allowing audiences to trace the roots of modern ninja fiction.

Anticipation and Preservation

Fan excitement reached a fever pitch at Otakon 2025, where AnimEigo offered an exclusive preview of the SASUKE Blu-ray set, alongside tantalizing glimpses of upcoming titles such as Black Jack and Alien Nine. Enthusiasts can secure their copy now through MediaOCD pre-orders, with a captivating promotional trailer offering a taste of the stunning restoration.

This meticulously curated release transcends mere entertainment; it stands as a pivotal moment in the preservation of Japanese animation. It delivers a crucial piece of cinematic heritage in a premium format designed to captivate and thrill for years to come. This is more than a release; it is a resurrection of a classic, ensuring its rightful place in the pantheon of anime greats.