Introduction Since its 2017 debut, Eromanga Sensei has attracted a loyal fanbase eager for news about a possible Season 2. This anime, a romantic comedy with ecchi elements, follows step-siblings Sagiri and Masamune Izumi, who navigate unexpected family ties and hidden identities in the world of light novels. Although no official announcements have been made about Eromanga Sensei Season 2, fans are still hopeful. Let’s dive into what we know so far, the possibilities for a new season, and when it might arrive.
1. The Journey So Far: Eromanga Sensei Season 1 and OVAs
The first season of Eromanga Sensei aired from April to June 2017, spanning 12 episodes. It was followed by two OVAs in 2019: “Yamada Elf’s Love Song” and “Cooked Meals of Pure Love.” These OVAs offer entertaining side stories for fans who crave more time with the characters. While these OVAs are fun, they don’t advance the main plot, leaving fans curious about what happens next.
2. Source Material and Adaptation Potential
Eromanga Sensei is based on a light novel series by Tsukasa Fushimi (author of Oreimo), with illustrations by Hiro Kanzaki. Here’s a breakdown of the source material status and how it impacts the likelihood of a second season:
- Volumes Available: As of January 2022, 12 volumes have been published. The anime adapted the first three volumes, with the OVAs presenting original content. This leaves nine volumes for potential future adaptations.
- Light Novel Status: The series is still technically ongoing. However, the last volume (Volume 12) was released in November 2019, and the author has since focused on Oreimo spin-offs, with no indication of when Volume 13 will be available. This hiatus makes the future of the light novel uncertain but still holds hope for a concluding arc.
- Where to Start Reading After Season 1: If you want to continue the story beyond the anime, start with Volume 4 of the light novel.
3. Profitability and Popularity of Eromanga Sensei
For any anime, the possibility of a second season largely depends on profitability. Here’s a look at how Eromanga Sensei has performed commercially:
- Blu-ray Sales: The first season’s Blu-ray discs sold around 7,700 copies per volume, and the OVAs did even better, with approximately 11,000 copies each. These are strong numbers, especially for 2017, when Blu-ray sales were declining.
- Light Novel Sales: Volumes 11 and 12 of the light novel sold around 20,000–25,000 copies each, which is solid, though not spectacular. The light novels contribute moderately to the series’ financial success but have not reached the popularity of top-selling series.
- Merchandising Success: There are over 350 pieces of merchandise for Eromanga Sensei, including more than 50 figures. This level of merchandising suggests a strong fanbase, especially for a one-season show.
4. Challenges for a Second Season
While Eromanga Sensei has seen profitable sales, its continuation faces some roadblocks:
- Author’s Focus Shift: The creator, Tsukasa Fushimi, has not published a new volume of Eromanga Sensei since 2019, as he has been working on Oreimo spin-offs. This hiatus raises questions about whether the series will resume or end with a final volume.
- Studio and Production Delays: The anime industry often faces lengthy production schedules, and without new content from the light novel, it may be challenging to justify a new season. Additionally, A-1 Pictures, the studio behind Eromanga Sensei, has been busy with other projects, which could delay any potential return to this series.
5. Possible Release Date for Eromanga Sensei Season 2
Given the lack of updates from the author and production studio, it’s difficult to predict an exact release date for Eromanga Sensei Season 2. If the author returns to the series and the studio greenlights a new season, a release could be possible by 2024 or later. However, without official confirmation, fans should temper their expectations.
6. Cast, Characters, and Crew
If a second season is produced, we can expect the return of the following cast and crew:
- Characters & Cast:
- Sagiri Izumi – Akane Fujita
- Elf Yamada – Minami Takahashi
- Masamune Izumi – Yoshitsugu Matsuoka
- Megumi Jinno – Ibuki Kido
- Muramasa Senju – Saori Oonishi
- Takasago Tomoe – Yui Ishikawa
- Anime Staff:
- Director: Ryouhei Takeshita
- Series Composition & Script: Tatsuya Takahashi
- Character Design: Hiro Kanzaki
- Studio: A-1 Pictures
7. Conclusion: Will Eromanga Sensei Season 2 Ever Happen?
Despite the profitability of Eromanga Sensei and its strong fanbase, the chances for Season 2 remain slim without new material from the author. The creator’s shift to Oreimo spin-offs and the anime’s age reduce the likelihood of a new season. If there are no updates by the end of 2022, it may be best to consider Eromanga Sensei complete with one season and two OVAs.
