Eva x Sapporo Black Label: A Toast to 30 Years of Evangelion
For all the anime fans and beverage enthusiasts out there, here is some very interesting news coming from Japan. To celebrate the massive 30th anniversary of the legendary Evangelion series, Sapporo Breweries has announced a special collaboration. They are launching limited edition cans of their famous "Sapporo Draft Beer Black Label" featuring some really stunning mecha artwork. This Evangelion | Anime partnership is definitely something many of us have been waiting for, especially since Neon Genesis Evangelion remains such a cult classic even after three decades.
The official nationwide release for these collaborative design cans is set for April 7th. It is quite a big deal because Evangelion has always had a deep connection with beer—remember how Misato Katsuragi always used to have a fridge full of cold ones? Now, fans can actually enjoy a drink that officially carries the theme of the series. If you have been following the franchise, you know that Neon Genesis Evangelion is a must watch because of its complex themes, and this collaboration just adds another layer to its cultural legacy.
Details of the Limited Edition Can Designs
The collaboration features two distinct sizes, each with a different unit from the series. The designs are quite detailed and look very sharp on the black cans. Here is what you can expect from this release:
- The 350ml Can: This smaller can features the iconic Evangelion Unit 01. It is the most recognisable unit from the series, piloted by Shinji Ikari, and the artwork captures its fierce look perfectly.
- The 500ml Can: The larger 500ml version highlights Evangelion Unit 13. This unit appeared in the Rebuild of Evangelion movies, and what makes it special is that the illustration is a new one drawn by Masahiro Maeda.
Maeda-san is a big name in the industry, having worked as a director and concept artist for the final film, Evangelion: 3.0+1.0 Thrice Upon a Time. His involvement ensures that the art is authentic and high-quality. Seeing these units on a "Sapporo Draft Beer Black Label" can is a real treat for collectors.
Upcoming Events and Exclusive Merchandise
Before the cans hit the shops on April 7th, there is a major event happening at Yokohama Arena. The "EVANGELION:30+; 30th ANNIVERSARY OF EVANGELION" festival will be held from February 21st to 23rd. A dedicated "Sapporo Draft Beer Black Label" booth will be set up in the support area of the event. Attendees will be able to see the collaborative design cans up close and check out some limited edition goods that will be on display there. It is going to be a massive gathering for fans to celebrate why Neon Genesis Evangelion is a must watch even today.
Apart from the beers, there is also some premium glassware being released. Pre-orders for the "Black Label x 'Evangelion' 30th Anniv. Collaboration THE BAR GLASS" have already started today, February 20th. You can find these at the online shop "Sapporo Draft Beer Black Label THE SHOP." If you manage to place your order by February 28th, you will get it delivered right on the launch day, April 7th. They are also planning to release multiple other collaboration goods on the same day, so keep an eye out for those updates.
Overall, this is a very cool way to mark thirty years of such an impactful anime. Whether you are a collector of Evangelion merch or just someone who enjoys a good Sapporo beer, these cans are going to be a very prized possession. Just make sure to get them early because they are limited edition and will likely fly off the shelves!
