STREET FIGHTER Anime Series YOUNG LADIES DON'T PLAY FIGHTING GAMES Trailer Reveal
The world of Street Fighter is expanding, and it looks like fans are getting something fun to hold them over before the live-action movie drops.
A brand-new anime titled Young Ladies Don’t Play Fighting Games is on the way, and it’s putting Street Fighter 6 right at the center of the action. Even better, there’s already a trailer out there teasing what’s coming.
Based on the manga by Eri Ejima, the story follows two girls enrolled in an elite, high-class academy where gaming isn’t exactly encouraged. In fact, fighting games are straight-up banned.
That doesn’t stop them. These two secretly dive into the world of Street Fighter 6, chasing their passion and setting their sights on winning a major tournament.
The anime is officially set to premiere on July 7 as part of the summer 2026 anime lineup. At the moment, there’s no word on international streaming.
The creative team behind the series includes Shota Ihata as the director for studio diomedéa, with Wataru Watari handling scripts. Character designs come from Mayuko Matsumoto, and Kana Hashiguchi is composing the music.
The opening theme, “Inochi Mijikashi Taisuru Otomeyo,” will be performed by Hanabie, which already hints at a high-energy vibe.
One of the coolest aspects of this project is how seriously it’s treating the game itself. Kadokawa’s FAV gaming team actually contributed to the Street Fighter 6 gameplay footage used in the anime. On top of that, pro esports player Aru is stepping in as commentator Flamberge, blending real competitive gaming culture into the show.
The voice cast includes Ikumi Hasegawa as Aya Mitsuki, Kana Ichinose as Mio Yorue, Sayaka Senbongi as Yu Inui, Shino Shimoji as Tamaki Ichinose, and Maria Naganawa as Arisa Fujimiya.
Meanwhile, a new live-action Street Fighter film is on track to hit theaters on October 16, directed by Kitao Sakurai. The movie is taking a throwback approach, set in the early ’90s and inspired heavily by Street Fighter II.
The story follows Ken Masters, played by Noah Centineo, as he’s pulled into another World Warrior Tournament by his longtime rival Ryu, played by Andrew Koji. The movie also stars Callina Liang as Chun-Li, David Dastmalchian as M. Bison, Cody Rhodes as Guile, Joe Anoa’i as Akuma, Jason Momoa as Blanka, Mel Jarnson as Cammy, Orville Peck as Vega, and Curtis Jackson as Balrog.
Between a competitive gaming anime and a nostalgic live-action reboot, Street Fighter fans are getting hit from all sides this year.