KADOKAWA Delays 'Young Ladies Don't Play Fighting Games' Anime to 2026, Teases Enhanced Quality and Street Fighter 6 Collaboration

Enthusiasts eagerly awaiting the anime adaptation of Young Ladies Don't Play Fighting Games will need to adjust their calendars, as KADOKAWA has officially announced a significant postponement of its release from the anticipated 2025 window to a new premiere date in 2026. This strategic shift, communicated directly by the production company, is attributed to essential scheduling adjustments involving key creative and technical teams. KADOKAWA reassures its dedicated fanbase that despite this delay, comprehensive efforts are underway to not only maintain but also significantly enhance the overall quality and appeal of the series, promising an even more polished and immersive viewing experience. The decision reflects a commitment to delivering a product that truly embodies the spirit and high standards of the original work.

The captivating narrative introduces Aya, a diligent scholarship student navigating the refined halls of Kuromi Girls’ Academy, an institution universally celebrated for its rigorous standards of etiquette and grace. Within this elegant setting, Aya's primary aspiration is to embody the poise and sophistication of the school's revered idol, Shirayui. However, Shirayui harbors a thrilling and meticulously guarded secret: a fervent, hidden passion for the intense and competitive world of fighting games. Far from her polished public persona, Shirayui undergoes a dramatic transformation, emerging as a formidable, trash-talking master of the fictional game 'Iron Sepai 4.' This electrifying digital combat forms a central and dynamic element to the anime's overarching gaming theme, creating a compelling juxtaposition with the serene school environment.

Adding another layer of excitement and anticipation, the anime is strategically set to feature a unique and high-profile collaboration with the globally acclaimed Street Fighter 6. This cross-promotional synergy is not merely a passing mention but is slated for a special, prominent highlight at the upcoming Tokyo Game Show 2025, which will run from September 25th to 28th. While fans must now contend with an extended wait, this strategic delay in the anime's launch is designed to position its premiere more effectively, allowing it to coincide seamlessly with the widespread global interest and ongoing momentum surrounding Street Fighter 6. This alignment is expected to unlock robust cross-media promotional opportunities, amplifying the series' reach and engagement.

Ultimately, Young Ladies Don't Play Fighting Games is poised to deliver a refreshingly distinct storyline that masterfully blends the sophistication and charm of elite school life with the fierce, adrenaline-pumping action of digital combat, making it an undeniable must-watch for aficionados of both heartwarming slice-of-life narratives and thrilling gaming culture alike.