Playing video games is an escape from reality, allowing players to live a different life. In Devils’ Crest, two people will realize that the video game world will merge their virtual and real worlds, with life-and-death consequences.
At the Warner Bros. Japan panel at Anime Expo 2026, the panelists announced the first trailer and key visuals for the new series, which originally launched in 2022 under Dengeki Bunko.
Devil’s Crest is completely new work from Reki Kawahara, the author of Sword Art Online and Accel World, with original illustrations by Yukiko Horiguchi.
The biggest surprise announcement was the confirmation of the opening theme song from Ado, “Shinka.” Ado is an anonymous Japanese pop star who debuted in 2020 with “Usseewa,” which hit the Billboard Japan Hot 100. She is known for using an avatar and has avoided photos and videos at her shows and public events.
On the panel, she had a pre-recorded 15-second challenge to describe her song and the show, which could be watched below.
The Japanese voice cast includes Yuya Hirose as Kenji Kondo and Satomi Amano as Minagi Sano.
“From the time I read the story, I was captivated by its intense death-game setting, where each unique classmate is given the spotlight,” said Amano in a statement. “Minagi is my ideal kind of girl—adorable and a little fragile, yet possessing a strong core that allows her to express her feelings clearly. I will portray her with great care, preserving her honest and natural charm.”
Hirose added, “I’ve been a fan of Reki Kawahara’s works since before I became a voice actor, so when I heard about the audition, I was overwhelmed with excitement and emotion. Kenji is a lively, mischievous boy—the kind of bright personality you’d want in your class. His straightforwardness, innocence, and strong spirit are all part of his charm. I’m doing my best in recording to bring out all of these qualities.”
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During the panel, the first look at the key and character visuals was revealed alongside the trailer.
Devils’ Crest streams on Prime Video on November 6, 2026.
Check out the visuals and first trailer below. Let us know what you think of them.
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Source: Warner Bros. Japan
