If there’s one anime studio that has dominated conversation, timelines, and watchlists over the past decade, it’s MAPPA. From jaw-dropping fight choreography to emotionally heavy storytelling, MAPPA has positioned itself as one of the most influential studios in modern anime, and 2026 is shaping up to be one of its biggest years yet!
A Quick Look at MAPPA’s Origins:
MAPPA (Maruyama Animation Produce Project Association) was founded in 2011 by legendary producer Masao Maruyama, a co-founder of Madhouse. His goal was simple but ambitious: create a studio that prioritized creative freedom while taking on bold, challenging projects.
That philosophy quickly paid off. MAPPA became known for tackling darker, more intense series with cinematic flair—earning global recognition with titles like Yuri!!! on Ice, Jujutsu Kaisen, Attack on Titan: The Final Season, Chainsaw Man, and Hell’s Paradise. Today, MAPPA is synonymous with high-risk, high-reward anime production.
MAPPA’s Confirmed & Anticipated 2026 Anime Slate:
Jujutsu Kaisen – Season 3 (Culling Game Arc Part 1)
One of the most anticipated anime returns of the decade, Jujutsu Kaisen Season 3 dives into the Culling Game Arc—a brutal, large-scale battle royale that pushes both sorcerers and curses to their limits. This arc introduces new players, shocking alliances, and some of the series’ most intense fights yet.
📅 Airing 12 episodes NOW
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Hell’s Paradise: Jigokuraku – Season 2
MAPPA teams up once again with Twin Engine to continue the dark fantasy saga. Season 2 raises the stakes with deadlier enemies, deeper lore, and even more visceral action as Gabimaru and the executioners face the true horrors of the island.
📅 Airing 12 Episodes NOW
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Dorohedoro – Returns for Season 2!
A cult classic beloved for its gritty aesthetic and chaotic energy, Dorohedoro is expected to make its long-awaited return. MAPPA’s unique animation style is a perfect fit for this bizarre, violent world, and fans have been waiting years for more.
📅 Spring 2026 Season
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Chainsaw Man Season 2: International Asassin’s Arc
While the Reze Arc movie sets the stage, MAPPA has clearly positioned Chainsaw Man as a long-term franchise. With future arcs teased and global hype still growing, late 2026 into 2027 is expected to usher in the next chapter of Denji’s story.
📅 Probably Late 2026 → 2027
Why MAPPA’s 2026 Matters
MAPPA’s 2026 lineup isn’t just stacked—it reflects how the studio continues to dominate both mainstream and hardcore anime culture. With multiple dark fantasy hits running simultaneously, MAPPA is once again shaping the tone of modern anime: intense, cinematic, and unapologetically bold.
For collectors and fans alike, these releases will likely spark new waves of figures, statues, apparel, and limited collectibles tied to some of the most iconic arcs in anime history that you can find on our site!
The Big Question:
With Jujutsu Kaisen Season 3 set to cover the Culling Game Arc, fans are already asking:
👉 Will we get Jujutsu Kaisen: Culling Game Part 2 by the end of 2026?
Only time (and MAPPA’s ambitious production schedule) will tell.