A thrilling new short anime, serving as an official sequel to the beloved OVA series Future GPX Cyber Formula SIN, has been officially announced for release. This exciting news coincides with the unveiling of a special anniversary visual, commemorating the 35th anniversary of the entire Future GPX Cyber Formula series.
Future GPX Cyber Formula SIN, which originally aired from December 1998 to March 2000 as the fourth OVA series spanning five intense episodes, captivated fans with its high-octane races and compelling character drama. Now, after a remarkable hiatus of over 25 years, this iconic franchise is set to return with a brand-new animation. Adding to the excitement, the design for a brand-new cyber machine, the 'Zenith Asurada AKF-S0/G,' has been revealed. This cutting-edge vehicle, slated to appear in the upcoming anime, was meticulously designed by the legendary mechanical designer Shoji Kawamori. Kawamori, renowned for his work on iconic franchises like Macross and Vision of Escaflowne, brings his distinctive vision to the world of Cyber Formula, promising a fresh yet familiar aesthetic. A captivating teaser visual for the new anime has also been released, hinting at the thrilling action to come.
Comments from the series' esteemed General Director, Mitsuo Fukuda, have also been shared, offering insight into the new project. Fukuda expressed, "This video is a short animation, approximately six minutes in length. However, it encapsulates 'a new year of Cyber Formula.' We aimed to capture the current state of this world with the intensity and speed that can only be achieved within such a condensed timeframe." A particularly noteworthy detail from his comments is the revelation that no CG was utilized in the production; the entire animation was crafted using traditional, hand-drawn techniques. This commitment to classic animation methods is sure to delight long-time fans and offers a unique aesthetic in today's animation landscape.
The breathtaking 35th-anniversary visual was masterfully crafted by Takahiro Yoshimatsu, who previously served as character designer and chief animation director for the original TV series and the OVAs Future GPX Cyber Formula 11 and Future GPX Cyber Formula ZERO. The visual features protagonist Hayato Kazami and other beloved characters, rendered in a style reminiscent of the original TV series, evoking a powerful sense of nostalgia and continuity for fans. To further celebrate the franchise's rich history, commemorative promotional videos have been released, highlighting the four acclaimed OVA series: Future GPX Cyber Formula 11, Future GPX Cyber Formula ZERO, Future GPX Cyber Formula SAGA, and Future GPX Cyber Formula SIN. Iconic scenes from the series play out sequentially, set to the powerful theme "UNLIMITED FIRE" performed by Aki Misato, allowing fans to relive the most memorable moments of Cyber Formula's storied past.
"Future GPX Cyber Formula" OVA series memorial PV
Beyond the anime, the exciting news continues with the announcement of a new game, Future GPX Cyber Formula Spiral. Players can immerse themselves in a new era's drama, unfolding beyond the intense races, with a scenario fully supervised by General Director Mitsuo Fukuda himself. The game also features a strategic racing component, allowing players to experience the exhilarating, high-speed races that are a hallmark of the Cyber Formula universe. A dedicated teaser website has also launched in conjunction with these announcements, inviting fans to explore the future of the franchise. Further details are anticipated soon, so fans are encouraged to stay tuned for more information.
The celebrations extend to merchandise, with Megahouse announcing the commercialization of the new machine 'Zenith Asurada AKF-S0/G,' alongside classic fan-favorites from the TV series, the 'Missionel VR-4' and 'Counter Arrow T.O.S.' Additionally, a pre-painted finished product model, the 'Asurada G.S.X Black Ver.,' is set to be released from the 'Variable Action Hi-SPEC UNITED' series, a collaborative brand between Megahouse and threezero. Furthermore, Iijankara has announced a new line of plush toys and a new team watch series, ensuring that fans will have a plethora of ways to show their love for Future GPX Cyber Formula.
The Future GPX Cyber Formula franchise has always been lauded for its innovative blend of cutting-edge technology, intense racing action, and profound character development. With a legacy spanning 35 years, its return with a new anime, a strategic game, and a wave of merchandise is a testament to its enduring appeal and impact on the anime world. Fans, both old and new, have much to anticipate as the series revs its engines for this exciting new chapter, promising to deliver the same adrenaline-pumping thrills and emotional depth that have defined it for decades. Get ready to hit the circuit once more!
