Otakuwriter
North American Anime & Manga Releases for August 2024
As August 2024 unfolds, North American fans can look forward to a diverse and exciting lineup of anime, manga, and light novel releases. This month features highly anticipated Blu-ray editions, including limited steelbook collections, as well as new manga volumes from well-known series. Official details from studios, publishers, and distributors have confirmed release dates, key staff involvement, and voice casts, providing a comprehensive view of what audiences can expect. Below, we outline the key releases for August, focusing on Week 1 highlights and providing additional information on the production and distribution of these titles.
Week 1 Anime Releases (August 5–11)
The first week of August sees the arrival of several notable anime Blu-ray editions, offering collectors high-quality presentations and exclusive packaging. These releases come from acclaimed studios and feature celebrated voice actors, with availability confirmed across major North American platforms and retailers.
Made in Abyss: The Golden City of the Scorching Sun (Made in Abyss: Retsujitsu no Ougonkyou) Blu-ray Limited Edition SteelBook
The hit sequel to Made in Abyss, Made in Abyss: The Golden City of the Scorching Sun, is officially released on Blu-ray in a limited edition SteelBook set. Produced by Kinema Citrus, the series continues to captivate audiences with its stunning animation and emotionally resonant storytelling. The Blu-ray release includes the short episode Papa to Issho as a special feature, providing fans with additional content related to the main series.
Key staff include director Masayuki Kojima and writer Hideyuki Kurata, with character designs by Shigeki Kawai. The series features the voices of Mariya Ise as Riko and Misaki Kuno as Reg, reprising their roles from the original adaptation.
Distributed by Sentai Filmworks, the Blu-ray is available through major retailers such as Right Stuf Anime and Funimation Shop, both of which offer exclusive pre-order bonuses. The edition boasts remastered 1080p presentation with Japanese audio and English subtitles, catering to collectors and fans eager for high-quality physical media.
Ookami Kodomo no Ame to Yuki (Wolf Children) Blu-ray
Also debuting on Blu-ray this week is the critically acclaimed film Ookami Kodomo no Ame to Yuki, directed by Mamoru Hosoda and produced by Studio Chizu. This release marks the first official North American Blu-ray availability of the film, presented in high definition with enhanced audio quality.
The story follows Hana and her two half-wolf children, Ame and Yuki, exploring themes of family and identity with heartfelt emotion. The Blu-ray includes both the original Japanese audio with English subtitles and the English dub, featuring voice talents such as Anne Yatco (Hana) and Justin Pate (Ame).
The release is managed by GKIDS, known for their meticulous restoration and packaging. Retailers like Amazon and Barnes & Noble carry the Blu-ray, which includes a booklet with concept art and an interview with Mamoru Hosoda.
Re-Kan! Blu-ray
For fans of supernatural slice-of-life anime, the series Re-Kan! receives its North American Blu-ray debut. Produced by Pierrot Plus and directed by Shigehito Takayanagi, the anime blends lighthearted ghost stories with everyday school life.
The voice cast includes Miyuki Sawashiro as Hibiki Amami and Sayaka Ohara as Narumi Inoue. The Blu-ray release offers Japanese audio with English subtitles, and is distributed by Sentai Filmworks through multiple outlets.
Week 1 Manga Releases
Alongside the anime Blu-rays, manga fans have several volumes hitting shelves in August’s first week. These releases showcase a range of genres, from drama and romance to comedy and action, with official English translations available from leading publishers.
- Adou (A-DO) Vol. 8 – Published by Kodansha Comics, this volume continues the story of the enigmatic protagonist under the skilled pen of manga artist A-DO.
- Blade Girl: Kataashi no Runner (Blade Girl) Vol. 2 – Released by Seven Seas Entertainment, this volume follows the action-packed adventures of its female protagonist, with sharp artwork and dynamic storytelling.
- Boku no Kokoro no Yabai Yatsu (The Dangers in My Heart) Vol. 11 – Featuring art by Norio Sakurai and published by Yen Press, this series explores the humorous and heartfelt inner world of its lead character.
- Busu ni Hanataba wo Vol. 4 – Available through Square Enix Manga, this romantic comedy continues to develop its unique characters and relationship dynamics.
Additional Light Novel Releases
August also brings new volumes and special editions in the light novel category, with publishers like Yen Press confirming official release dates. These light novels often inspire future anime adaptations, making them an essential part of the ever-expanding Japanese media landscape in North America.
Official Release Platforms and Distribution Details
All the August releases are officially distributed through reputable channels, ensuring authenticity and high-quality presentation. Sentai Filmworks, GKIDS, Kodansha Comics, Seven Seas Entertainment, Yen Press, and Square Enix Manga are among the trusted publishers and distributors handling these titles.
Physical editions are widely accessible through major online retailers such as Amazon, Right Stuf Anime, Funimation Shop, and Barnes & Noble, while digital versions are available on platforms like Comixology and Crunchyroll Manga, depending on the title.
Conclusion
August 2024’s North American anime, manga, and light novel releases present a robust selection for collectors and new fans alike. From limited edition SteelBook Blu-rays of Made in Abyss: The Golden City of the Scorching Sun to long-awaited manga volumes, the official announcements confirmed by reliable sources reflect a steady flow of high-quality Japanese media across the continent. Keeping an eye on these releases ensures fans do not miss out on the best offerings this summer season.
Source: MyAnimeList Official News – https://myanimelist.net/news/73111602
