Fans of the MONOGATARI Series have reason to rejoice as the Off Season and Monster Season light novels are set to receive anime adaptations. Recently announced, Studio Shaft will be producing the anime, scheduled to air in 2024. With Akiyuki Shinbou as the supervisory chief director, and Midori Yoshizawa taking on the role of the director, the highly anticipated adaptation is sure to captivate audiences.
Additionally, character designer Akio Watanabe is returning, and Fuyashi Tou is credited as the co-series/script composer alongside Shinbou. An illustration and a special video have been released to accompany this exciting news, with the video available on Aniplex’s YouTube channel.
Understanding Off Season and Monster Season
For viewers who have completed the final season and are unfamiliar with the Off Season and Monster Season light novels, let’s break it down. The Off Season comprises additional stories that unfold after the Final Season, extending throughout the series timeline.
Titles such as Orokamonogatari, Wazamonogatari, Nademonogatari, and Musubimonogatari contribute to Off Season, filling in gaps and setting the stage for the next season. Notably, these arcs often shift the focus away from the protagonist, Araragi, which justifies the term “Off Season.” On the other hand, Monster Season introduces a completely new storyline centered around Araragi during his university life.
Navigating the Vast Monogatari Universe
For those yet to delve into the Monogatari anime series, the sheer volume of content can be overwhelming. With approximately 100 episodes and three movies, it’s crucial to know where to start.
While the anime release order differs slightly from the light novel order due to delays, most fans recommend following the novel release order. Avoiding chronological order is also advised, as the series was designed for viewers to experience events in a specific sequence, enhancing the impact of revelations.
Recommended Watch Order
- Bakemonogatari (15 episodes): Begin your journey with this installment to gauge your interest. If it resonates with you, there’s much more to explore. If not, it may not be your preferred series.
- Novel Release Order: Many fans endorse following the order based on the light novel releases for a comprehensive and immersive experience.
In summary, the Monogatari anime, based on Nisio Isin’s Japanese light novel series and illustrated by Vofan, has been a staple for fans since 2009. With Shaft and Aniplex announcing the adaptation of the Off Season and Monster Season novels in January 2024, the anticipation continues to build.
Whether you’re a seasoned viewer or a newcomer, the Monogatari series offers a unique and captivating journey into the world of supernatural mysteries and intriguing characters. Stay tuned for the much-anticipated release of Off Season and Monster Season in 2024!