As we move deeper into 2026, the anime world is preparing to deliver yet another wave of unforgettable series, sequels, and movies that promise to capture the hearts of fans worldwide. Following the hype from Parts 1–7 of this series, Part 8 brings together three heavy-hitting titles, each with a unique legacy and massive fanbase: Trigun Stargaze, That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime Movie 2, and Ascendance of a Bookworm Season 4. From post-apocalyptic desert tales to magical reincarnations and book-loving isekai, this year is shaping up to be an anime fan’s paradise.
Let’s dive deep into what makes these upcoming releases so exciting and why they deserve a spot on your 2026 watchlist.
1. Trigun Stargaze – Sequel – Premiering in 2026
Legacy of Trigun
Few titles have left as deep a mark on anime culture as Trigun, originally debuting in 1998. With its unforgettable protagonist Vash the Stampede, a pacifist gunslinger with a bounty on his head, the series combined wild-west aesthetics, philosophical undertones, and heart-pounding action. In 2023, Studio Orange revived the franchise with Trigun Stampede, a CGI-heavy reimagining that modernized the visuals while staying true to the emotional storytelling.
Now, Trigun Stargaze is set to continue this saga, sparking excitement among both old-school fans and newer audiences who fell in love with Stampede’s modern adaptation.
What We Know So Far
- Release: Sometime in 2026 (exact date TBA).
- Studio: While not officially confirmed, early leaks suggest that Studio Orange may return to maintain the dazzling 3D animation style.
- Story Direction: Stargaze is believed to bridge the gap between the Stampede arc and the darker, more emotional parts of Vash’s journey. It may focus heavily on the relationship between Vash and Knives, while exploring themes of humanity, morality, and the meaning of peace in a violent world.
Why Fans Are Hyped
- Fans want to see a faithful continuation of Vash’s struggles while possibly tying into the original 1998 storyline.
- The animation technology has improved since Stampede, raising expectations for even more cinematic battle sequences.
- With Trigun Stampede’s cliffhanger, many viewers are craving answers.
2. That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime – Movie 2 – Premiering February 27, 2026
A Global Isekai Phenomenon
The Slime Isekai franchise (Tensei Shitara Slime Datta Ken) has become one of the most popular isekai of the modern era. Its protagonist, Rimuru Tempest, begins as an ordinary human reincarnated into another world as a slime, only to grow into a near god-like figure who builds an entire nation. Between manga, light novels, multiple anime seasons, and movies, the franchise has grown into a multi-million-dollar powerhouse.
With Movie 2 set for release on February 27, 2026, fans are more excited than ever to see Rimuru’s next cinematic adventure.
What We Know So Far
- Title: Not yet announced, but promotional material suggests a continuation of the events after Season 3.
- Plot Speculation: The first movie (Scarlet Bond) introduced original characters and a new kingdom. Movie 2 is expected to expand on political conflicts while showcasing Rimuru’s god-tier powers.
- Animation Studio: 8bit is expected to return, known for its fluid combat scenes and detailed character designs.
Why Fans Are Hyped
- The second movie is expected to push Rimuru’s story into uncharted territories with cinematic-scale battles.
- Fans are curious whether this movie will introduce major foreshadowing for Season 4 or even adapt light novel content that has yet to appear in the anime.
- February 27 is already being marked on calendars, ensuring a massive global opening.
3. Ascendance of a Bookworm – Season 4 – Premiering April 2026
A Hidden Gem of the Isekai Genre
Unlike the typical isekai anime that focus on epic battles and flashy powers, Ascendance of a Bookworm takes a unique route: the story of a frail girl, Urano Motosu, who dies in her world and is reincarnated as a young child named Myne in a medieval-like society. With her love for books and knowledge, she aspires to become a librarian—but in a world where books are rare luxuries, her dream becomes a monumental challenge.
The anime has been praised for its emotional storytelling, world-building, and slice-of-life charm. After three seasons of carefully building Myne’s journey, fans are eager to see what Season 4 will bring.
What We Know So Far
- Release: Scheduled for April 2026.
- Story Arcs: Season 4 is expected to adapt the Part 3 of the Light Novel – "Adopted Daughter of an Archduke". This arc will shift Myne’s story into more political, magical, and noble-related themes, expanding the scope of the series.
- Tone Shift: While previous seasons focused on Myne’s personal challenges and inventions, Season 4 will present larger conflicts as she rises in societal ranks.
Why Fans Are Hyped
- The series has a loyal fanbase that praises its slow-burn yet rewarding storytelling.
- Season 4 promises to elevate the stakes by showing Myne not only as a bookworm but also as someone with influence over an entire society.
- Fans believe Season 4 will finally give the anime the recognition it deserves alongside mainstream isekai hits.
Final Thoughts
2026 is shaping up to be an incredible year for anime, and Part 8 of our ongoing coverage highlights just how diverse the offerings are.
- Trigun Stargaze promises to rekindle the emotional intensity of a legendary franchise while modernizing its visuals.
- That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime Movie 2 is set to deliver god-tier action and world-expanding plotlines in theaters worldwide.
- Ascendance of a Bookworm Season 4 will charm fans with heartfelt storytelling, reminding us that not all isekai are about swords and sorcery—sometimes, it’s about the quiet yet powerful love for books.
Whether you’re a fan of action-packed post-apocalyptic sagas, cinematic isekai adventures, or touching slice-of-life fantasy, 2026 is a year you can’t afford to miss.
👉 Do you think Trigun Stargaze will honor the legacy of the original?
👉 Are you marking your calendar for Slime Movie 2’s February release?
👉 And will Bookworm S4 finally break into the mainstream spotlight?
Tell me in the comments which anime you’re most excited about!
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