In a much-anticipated development for fans, the upcoming television anime adaptation of Ōkami to Kōshinryō, titled “Merchant Meets the Wise Wolf” (Spice & Wolf), has unveiled its second promotional video. The video is now accessible on the official website, building excitement for the series inspired by Isuna Hasekura’s beloved Spice & Wolf light novel series.
Scheduled for a debut in April, the anime is set to air on TV Tokyo and other major stations. This new installment promises a fresh perspective with a completely original storyline, focusing on the intriguing encounter between Kraft Lawrence and the wolf girl, Holo.
Returning to their respective roles are Jun Fukuyama as Kraft Lawrence and Ami Koshimizu as the voice of Holo. Takeo Takahashi, known for his previous work in the franchise, takes on the role of chief director, with Hijiri Sanpei directing the anime at studio Passione. Kevin Penkin, renowned for his work on series like Made in Abyss and The Rising of The Shield Hero, is responsible for the captivating soundtrack. ENISHIYA is the producer of this highly anticipated series.
The Spice and Wolf novel series, initiated by Isuna Hasekura in 2006, has been a literary success, with the latest volume, the 24th, released in January 2023. Yen Press has played a crucial role in bringing the series to English-speaking audiences, publishing the 24th novel in North America in August, along with the manga adaptation. Hasekura also introduced a spinoff series titled Wolf & Parchment: New Theory Spice & Wolf in April 2016, with Yen Press handling its English releases.
The rich source material has previously inspired two TV anime seasons directed by Takeo Takahashi and scripted by Naruhisa Arakawa. Both the first season (January to March 2008) and the second season, Spice and Wolf II (July to September 2009), were warmly received, with Funimation releasing them on home video.
Expanding beyond television anime, the Spice & Wolf franchise ventured into virtual reality with an adaptation premiering in June 2019 for Oculus Rift, HTC VIVE, and Oculus Go Edition. The virtual reality experience received acclaim, leading to a sequel in December 2020, further immersing fans in the captivating world of Spice & Wolf.
