Disneyhas just revealed its first originalanime,Dragon Striker, and it’s already shaping up to be one of the most distinctive entries in the company’s animation slate. Having first premiered at the Annecy Animation Festival, the series blendssports action with supernatural elements that effectively channel the energy of classic shōnen anime.Dragon Strikeris set to stream on Disney Channel and Disney+ in 2026, and the project originates from the French animation studio La Chouette Compagnie.
The story will take place in the fantastical world of Kal Asterock, where a no-holds-barred version of five-a-side soccer isn’t just a game, but a high-stakes spectacle powered by mystical forces.Disney aims for a 22-episode debut season and has ambitious plans for a 15-season run.With its vibrant animation style and complex worldbuilding, Disney is positioning itself to enter the anime industry with strong intentions and plenty of flair.
My Hero Academia and One Piece Artists Are Taking Part in Dragon Striker
Disney’s Dragon Striker Already Has the Best Artistic Foundation for a Great Series
Dragon Strikerdraws inspiration from other anime and is created by those behind some of themost popular anime series, includingOne PieceandMy Hero Academia. With established anime artists involved in the production, Disney is off to a strong start and shows a serious commitment to authenticity. Supporting the stunning visuals is a musical score byMade in Abysscomposer Kevin Penkin, recorded in Japan with an 80-piece ensemble. While Disney provides the platform and distribution,Dragon Strikeris already demonstrating potential with the talented team behind the scenes.
With the introduction ofDragon Striker, Disney is making strategic moves to expand its presence in thegrowing anime industry. By collaborating with acclaimed artists and integrating recognized talents, Disney demonstrates its intent to approach the anime industry properly while pushing creative boundaries. These ambitious plans could completely reshape the landscape for Western anime,potentially inspiring future cross-cultural projects and raising the bar for expectations from anime productions outside of Japan.
Disney’s First Anime Original Has a Compelling Premise
Dragon Striker Is Positioned To Become a Fun Sports Anime
Dragon Strikertakes place in the magical world of Kal Asterock, where five-a-side soccer is a supercharged sport infused with supernatural abilities. The story follows Key, a humble farm boy who discovers thathe possesses a mysterious power and is destined to become the legendary Dragon Striker.He finds himself at an elite academy for magical abilities and meets Ssyelle, a formidable goalkeeper, and the two form an unlikely alliance. Together, they lead a team of underdogs against the school’s top contenders.
However, the story extends far beyond just a soccer-centered sports anime.Dragon Strikerwill dive deeper into its worldbuilding, exploring its urban landscape inspired by Rio de Janeiro andChrono Trigger, along with unique stadiums and character designs. Each character’s style will range from ancient robes to stylish streetwear, allowing for a highly imaginative and memorable cast. Originally, the series was planned to be a rugby fantasy, but since then,Dragon Strikerhasevolved into something far more compelling with intricate lore, action, and humor.
Dragon Strikeris filled with fantastical elements and will explore themes of teamwork and identity.
Fans ofBlue Lock,Haikyuu!!, orInazumaElevenwill likely find thatDragon Strikersshare a similar charm. The series borrows the intense rivalries, personal growth arcs, and larger-than-life plays that define the best of the best in sports anime. Along with its supernatural edge,Disney’s first anime original will deliver unforgettable and cinematic moments throughout its run.The show’s pacing matchesclassic shōnenstructures, likely through power reveals, team dynamics, or mid-match backstory drops that keep viewers on the edge of their seats.Dragon Strikeris filled with fantastical elements and will explore themes of teamwork and identity.
WithDragon Striker, Disney is making a bold move into the anime industry with a series that proudly showcases its influences while establishing its own identity. With a mix of shōnen storytelling, sports anime energy, and supernatural elements, the show aims to be an entertaining spectacle for anime fans everywhere. Whether it lands with longtime fans or finds a new audience through Disney,Dragon Strikerclearly intends to deliver a memorable premiere.With this introduction, the series proves thatDisneyviews anime as a worthwhile investment and a chance to explore new forms of storytelling.
