MBC Group and Tokyopop Announce First Two MBC Anime Productions

The shows – from Fuji TV and TV Asahi in Japan – will stream as simulcasts on the world's leading Arabic streaming platform, Shahid

RIYADH, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia | October 20, 2023: MBC ANIME – a strategic initiative by MBC GROUP and TOKYOPOP dedicated to the licensing, promotion, and production of anime content in the region – announces investments in two original anime productions scheduled to debut in Japan and worldwide this month. They are “Kami.App” (カミエラビ) and “Protocol: Rain” (僕らの雨いろプロトコル).

The shows, which are from Fuji TV and TV Asahi, will stream exclusively on Shahid, the world's leading Arabic-streaming platform by MBC GROUP. In order to cater to current and future anime enthusiasts in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA), MBC ANIME is also now part of the production committees of both Japanese broadcasters.

Streaming this week as a simulcast on Shahid, “Kami.App” is a battle-royale twisted action story where high school student Goro is pitted against rivals in a bid to become the ultimate kami, wielding the power to manipulate the cause and effect of the world. Jaded by everyday life, Goro must confront his high school crush Honoka as part of the deadly competition, revealing the deepest secrets of each kami candidate.

Created by YOKO TARO (video game director of “Nier”), written by JIN (creator of “Kagerou Daze”), and directed by Hiroyuki Seshita (known for “Knights of Sidonia”, “Ajin” and “Godzilla: Planet of the Monsters”), “Kami.App” also features character designs by Atsushi Ohkubo, the manga author behind “Soul Eater” and “Fire Force.” This original production brings together a remarkable creative dream team in the world of anime.

All 13 episodes of Season One are set to stream this year, with a second season planned for 2024.

Also streaming this week as a simulcast on Shahid, “Protocol: Rain” tells the story of Shun Tokinoya, a high school student working part-time at an esports café. He must participate in the “Xaxxerion Championship” to win prize money, which he needs to save the one passion that keeps him going after the loss of his father.

Directed by Yasutaka Yamamoto(“Aharen-san wa Hakarenai”, “Nekopara”) and written by Katsuhiko Takayama (“The World's Finest Assassin Gets Reincarnated in Another World as an Aristocrat”, “ALDNOAH.ZERO”), all 12 episodes will stream on Shahid this year. Original character designs are done by booota (“Penguin Highway”) and Kanna Hirayama (“Rent A Girlfriend”, “【OSHI NO KO】”).

With many more productions on the horizon to complement a diverse range of acquisitions, MBC ANIME plans to introduce the dynamic and exciting world of anime to the MENA with a fan-centric and holistic approach. Stay tuned for upcoming news, exclusive features, and special sneak peeks by following MBC GROUP's official social media channels.

MBC GROUP is the largest and leading media company in the MENA.