For decades, Kadokawa has been a major force in anime, manga, and light novels. Its portfolio includes some of the most recognizable titles, and it has built a strong reputation for adapting successful written works into animated hits.
But as anime’s popularity continues to grow around the world, the expectations of international fans are becoming increasingly important. While Japanese audiences still shape the core of the industry, the Western market now plays a huge role in determining which titles find long-lasting success.
In this context, Kadokawa’s statement is not surprising. The company recognizes that genres such as zombie and vampire stories have always had a strong following outside Japan. In Western entertainment, films, television shows, and novels based on these themes have thrived for decades.
From classics like Dracula and Night of the Living Dead to modern hits like The Walking Dead and Twilight, these themes continue to attract loyal fans. By considering more anime within these genres, Kadokawa is acknowledging the cultural preferences of Western viewers while still aiming to deliver stories with a Japanese creative touch.