Bandai Namco Filmworks announced today (the 11th) via its official YouTube channel that the new 'Ghost in the Shell' TV anime series will begin airing on July 7.

'Ghost in the Shell' is based on the manga series serialized by Masamune Shirow starting in 1989, set in a near-future world where cybernetics and cyber-technology have advanced rapidly. The story follows Motoko Kusanagi and the agents of Public Security Section 9 as they track down a mysterious hacker known as the 'Puppet Master.' Since its serialization, the series has been acclaimed for blending Shirow's signature lighthearted humor and futuristic SF designs with the core cyberpunk philosophy of exploring fundamental questions about AI, machines, and human existence.

Building on this acclaim, the series has been adapted into numerous anime and feature films over the years. Notable examples include Mamoru Oshii's 'Ghost in the Shell' and 'Innocence' films, as well as Kenji Kamiyama's 'Ghost in the Shell: SAC' series. It has also been adapted into games multiple times, including 'Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex - First Assault Online,' which was developed and serviced by Neople in Korea.

The newly announced anime, however, is being produced with a greater focus on staying faithful to Masamune Shirow's original manga. The reveal trailer shows that key Public Security Section 9 characters—including Motoko Kusanagi, Batou, and Togusa—have been designed to match the art style of the original manga. The trailer also features scenes lifted directly from the source material, such as the team enjoying a brief cherry blossom viewing before being called into an emergency mission, as well as moments where characters display the humorous, expressive faces characteristic of the original. Conversely, the combat sequences utilize techniques like blackout effects to emphasize the series' more serious tone, reflecting an attempt to capture the balance between comedy and drama found in the original work.

The 'Ghost in the Shell' anime is being produced by Science SARU, the studio behind 'The Colors Within' and 'Dandadan,' with direction by Moko-chan, who served as assistant director on 'Dandadan.' Other 'Dandadan' production staff are also involved, including sound designer Shota Yaso, editor Kiyoshi Hirose, and recording director Yasuaki Ota. While the voice cast has not yet been announced, it is expected that some roles will be recast following the passing of Atsuko Tanaka, the longtime voice of Motoko Kusanagi, in August 2024.

'Ghost in the Shell' will begin airing on July 7 across Kansai TV and Fuji TV-affiliated stations and network services; availability on other OTT platforms remains undecided. Further information about the anime can be found on the official website.