Ghost in the Shell Gets Fresh Anime From Science SARU on Prime Video This July

A completely new anime adaptation of Masamune Shirow's Ghost in the Shell will premiere in July 2026. Amazon Prime Video has acquired worldwide streaming rights for the series, which is produced by Science SARU in collaboration with Production I.G and Bandai Namco Filmworks. The project represents a fresh start for the iconic cyberpunk franchise, returning directly to the original manga rather than continuing any prior anime continuity.

A Ground-Up Adaptation

Unlike previous adaptations that built on Mamoru Oshii's celebrated 1995 film or the Stand Alone Complex universe, this new series goes back to Shirow's original 1989 manga as its foundation. The production team has confirmed it will have no narrative connection to any prior Ghost in the Shell anime incarnation. This approach allows the creative team to reinterpret the source material without the weight of established canon constraining their vision.

Director Moko-chan, also known as Shoma Kimura, leads the project with a distinctive creative perspective. Series composition and scripts are handled by novelist Toh EnJoe, known for experimental and intellectually ambitious works including Self-Reference Engine and Code Buddha. Character designs and chief animation direction come from Shuhei Handa, whose visual sensibility shapes the show's distinctive look.

A Distinctive Visual Identity Rooted in the 90s

The first full trailer, unveiled at AnimeJapan 2026 on March 28, runs 46 seconds and immediately establishes the series' bold visual palette. The animation leans into saturated colors and a kinetic energy reminiscent of 90s anime aesthetics rather than the subdued, atmospheric tones typically associated with Ghost in the Shell adaptations. The approach feels deliberately playful compared to the franchise's traditionally cerebral presentation.

Handa's character designs mark a clear departure from both the original manga's look and Production I.G's previous interpretations. Major Motoko Kusanagi appears with striking red eyes contrasted against vivid blue hair in the key visual, standing alongside the AI tank Fuchikoma. The aesthetic choices suggest a series that embraces the manga's occasionally lighter tone rather than Oshii's more philosophical approach.

Streaming and Broadcast Plans

Amazon Prime Video holds worldwide streaming rights outside China and Russia. In Japan, the series will broadcast on the KTV/Fuji TV network on Tuesdays at 11:00 PM. Whether Prime Video's international rights are exclusive has not been officially confirmed, leaving open the possibility of additional platform availability in certain markets.

Production Committee and Significance

The production committee includes Science SARU, Bandai Namco Filmworks, Kodansha, and Production I.G. The involvement of both Science SARU as the lead studio and Production I.G on the committee is notable. Production I.G produced every prior Ghost in the Shell anime project dating back to the original 1995 theatrical film, and their presence on the committee ensures institutional knowledge of the franchise even as creative leadership shifts to a new studio.

The series' episode count and exact premiere date within the July window have not been disclosed. Indian subscribers with active Prime Video memberships will have access when the series launches globally, making it one of the biggest anime exclusives arriving on the platform this summer.