The beloved anime series Is It Wrong to Try to Pick Up Girls in a Dungeon, also known as DanMachi, is celebrating its 10th anniversary with a special screening event. This exclusive event, hosted by HIDIVE, will take place at Anime Expo 2025 in Los Angeles on July 4, marking a major milestone for fans of the action fantasy series. The celebration promises memorable moments, special appearances, and opportunities to connect with the people behind the DanMachi legacy.
DanMachi 10th Anniversary Event at Anime Expo
Anime Expo 2025 is getting a major highlight this year with DanMachi’s 10th anniversary celebration. The official anniversary screening is scheduled for July 4 at the JW Marriott’s Diamond Ballroom. This event is designed for both long-time fans and newer viewers wanting to experience the series on the big screen during a pivotal year in its history.
Anime Expo has consistently been a prime venue for North American anime premieres and celebrations. This year, DanMachi’s anniversary is taking center stage thanks to the commitment of both the Expo organizers and HIDIVE. The event will also include unique interactive segments and audience engagement sessions that promise to make the celebration stand out.
Those attending can expect exclusive content, a showcase of iconic scenes, and possibly behind-the-scenes insights directly from creators and staff. In addition to the main screening, the event will serve as a gathering point for the global DanMachi fan community. Anime Expo tickets grant access to the special screening, giving badge holders an extra incentive to join the festivities this July.
The significance of this event lies not only in marking ten years since DanMachi’s anime debut but also in giving respect to its long-standing impact in the genre. The franchise’s evolution from a hit light novel to a multimedia powerhouse will be a key point of reflection at the Expo celebration.
HIDIVE’s Role in DanMachi Celebration
HIDIVE has become an important force in anime streaming and event organization, and their role in DanMachi’s 10th anniversary underlines their growing influence. By collaborating with Anime Expo, HIDIVE is helping to bring this cherished series front and center, both for new audiences and loyal fans.
As an official HD streaming platform, HIDIVE will not only present the anniversary screening but is also expected to run select fan activities and possibly disseminate exclusive digital content during Anime Expo. Their partnership means more accessibility to the series for attendees, and potentially for those unable to travel to Los Angeles via livestream or highlights.
HIDIVE’s support of the DanMachi franchise has led to more community engagement. Through in-person and virtual events, they foster conversations and excitement around the series, ensuring the anniversary remains a memorable experience for all involved.
Special Guest Appearance: Nobuhiro Osawa
The 10th anniversary event boasts the special attendance of Nobuhiro Osawa, a producer from Egg Firm. Osawa has played a pivotal role in DanMachi’s production and will interact with fans at Anime Expo, sharing insights about the anime’s creative journey.
Having a key production figure like Osawa in attendance is a major bonus for devoted fans. His presence gives the anniversary event a heightened sense of authenticity, offering behind-the-scenes stories and perspectives seldom shared outside of industry panels.
Fans can look forward to a possible Q&A session, autograph opportunities, or even anecdotes about challenges faced during the making of DanMachi. Such exclusive interactions elevate the appeal of attending the screening in person, especially for those who are passionate about anime production.
Date, Location, and Ticket Details
The special DanMachi 10th anniversary screening will take place on July 4, 2025, at the JW Marriott’s Diamond Ballroom, Los Angeles, during the second day of Anime Expo. Tickets for Anime Expo are available now and must be acquired to enter the event. No separate ticketing is required for the screening once you have your Anime Expo badge.
Anime Expo is North America’s largest anime convention, renowned for its star-studded panels, exclusive premieres, and interactive exhibits. The venue is easily accessible and centrally located in downtown Los Angeles, making it convenient for attendees from all over the world.
It’s important for fans to secure their Expo badges early, as anniversary events like these can draw big crowds, especially with a franchise as popular as DanMachi. Details around seating, additional registration, or special merchandise may be announced closer to the event, so keeping an eye on official channels is advised.
Beyond the screening, badge holders will have access to the full slate of Anime Expo events and activities, ranging from cosplay contests to industry panels and exclusive vendor booths. The DanMachi screening is expected to be a major draw, enhancing the overall Expo experience for 2025.
DanMachi’s Journey: From Light Novel to Anime Phenomenon
DanMachi began its story in 2013 as a light novel by Fujino Omori with illustrations by Suzuhito Yasuda. Its quick rise in popularity positioned it as a standout in the fantasy adventure genre, quickly leading to manga adaptations and anime development by J.C. Staff.
The core narrative, centered around young adventurer Bell Cranel and the goddess Hestia, immediately won over readers thanks to its blend of emotional stakes, humor, and rich world-building. The light novel’s unique spin on dungeon-crawling adventures made it accessible for both longtime fantasy fans and newcomers to the genre. The books have consistently expanded DanMachi’s world, introducing new characters, quests, and deeper lore throughout each volume.
Following the light novel’s success, DanMachi’s anime adaptation debuted in 2015. The transition from print to screen preserved the heart of Omori’s story while also delivering action-packed sequences and character-driven development, making it one of the most recognizable titles of the decade.
The franchise’s reach now extends into manga, spinoffs, games, and even stage plays, demonstrating how a light novel can grow into a sprawling multimedia phenomenon. This journey is celebrated with every anniversary, as new generations of fans discover the world of Orario.
Plot and Main Characters of DanMachi
DanMachi follows 14-year-old Bell Cranel, a rookie adventurer who dreams of greatness as the only member of the Hestia Familia. His story truly begins when he is saved from certain death by the skilled swordfighter Ais Wallenstein, a pivotal moment that kickstarts both his quest for strength and a blossoming romantic subplot.
At the center of the story is Hestia, Bell’s affectionate goddess and his greatest supporter. Her relationship with Bell is both comedic and touching, providing heartwarming moments alongside more intense dungeon battles. Other core characters include Ais Wallenstein of the Loki Familia, whose prowess inspires Bell; and a cast of diverse supporting characters like Welf Crozzo, Liliruca Arde, and many more, each contributing to the series’ emotional depth.
The story balances high-stakes monster battles against personal growth and friendship, emphasizing the importance of perseverance, loyalty, and striving for one’s dreams. Bell’s journey is punctuated by his evolving abilities, secret powers linked to his devotion, and encounters with both allies and adversaries.
Romantic intrigue is ever-present yet never overshadows the adventure, as Bell navigates friendships and unspoken attractions from multiple characters. The narrative is layered, offering moments of humor, suspense, and heart, all anchored by the dynamic between Bell and Hestia.
The dungeon itself, with its shifting floors and fierce monsters, remains a constant force of challenge and discovery, keeping the adventure perpetually fresh with every episode and chapter.
Critical and Fan Reception Over the Years
From its initial anime debut in 2015, DanMachi received largely positive reviews from both critics and general audiences. The combination of relatable characters, emotional storytelling, and a unique dungeon-crawling premise set it apart in a crowded fantasy landscape.
Fans praise the series for its character development and the endearing relationship between Bell and Hestia. Hestia, in particular, became an instant pop culture icon, sparking widespread discussion and meme culture thanks to her distinct design and heartfelt support of Bell.
Across its multiple seasons, DanMachi has continued to draw strong viewership, maintaining high scores on anime review sites and earning nominations in year-end anime awards. The expansion of its story through OVAs and manga volumes has allowed for deeper exploration of side characters, further endearing the franchise to fans.
Certain story arcs have been highlighted for their emotional impact, especially those dealing with themes of belonging, self-doubt, and courage. Some critics initially questioned the series’ long title, but as ADR director Kyle Colby Jones noted, “this is a really fun story,” reflecting the sentiment that DanMachi’s charm transcends first impressions.
All About DanMachi’s Anime Seasons and OVAs
Since premiering in April 2015, the DanMachi anime has grown to include five seasons and 74 episodes, including several OVAs that delve into untold stories and side adventures. Each season adapts a crucial arc from the original light novels, expanding on Bell’s journey and the rich world of Orario.
The show has also released three OVAs, each offering lighthearted escapades and fan-favorite character moments. These OVAs are known for their comedic tone, often focusing on character dynamics in less perilous, more playful scenarios.
Each new season brought new characters and challenges, keeping the narrative fresh. The anime’s consistent output over a decade is a testament to the enduring popularity and robust source material. Directors such as Yusuke Onoda and Hideki Tachibana have helped maintain a clear vision for the adaptation, ensuring both newcomers and old fans find something to enjoy each year.
The episodic structure allows for both action-filled episodes and quieter, character-driven moments, making the series accessible for binge-watching or casual viewing alike.
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The Delay and Comeback of DanMachi Season 5
Big news made waves in December when the final episodes of DanMachi V were unexpectedly postponed “indefinitely,” causing disappointment and speculation among fans. The delay impacted the franchise’s momentum, raising concerns about whether the story would see a proper conclusion.
Series producers cited unforeseen production challenges leading to the hiatus, though details remained sparse. Despite the temporary setback, loyal viewers expressed optimism about the anime’s return, with many voicing support on social media platforms and waiting patiently for updates.
Hope was restored when DanMachi returned in February. The 74th and final episode of DanMachi V ultimately aired on March 7, 2025, ending the season on a high note. The successful return and completion of the season reaffirmed both the fanbase’s dedication and the production team’s commitment to delivering a quality adaptation.
This comeback marked not only the satisfaction of wrapping up key story arcs but also the resilience of the anime’s cast and crew who overcame obstacles to finish the project. It stands as a testament to the franchise’s continued vitality, even after a decade since its original launch.
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Ongoing Light Novel and Manga Updates
The DanMachi franchise continues to grow with new entries in both its light novel and manga series. The main light novel series, written by Fujino Omori, is approaching its 21st volume, while the manga adaptation is nearing its 17th.
Frequent releases keep fans engaged, as new content explores additional backstories, character motivations, and worldbuilding elements. The manga, in particular, allows artists to interpret key scenes and battles in new ways, adding fresh visual flair.
The ongoing success of the light novels underlines their crucial role as the core of the franchise. With each new release, Omori deepens the complexity of Orario, introduces new characters, and presents novel challenges for Bell and his companions. Complementing the main narrative are spin-off stories and adaptations, ensuring there is always more DanMachi content for eager readers and viewers alike.
Notable Production Team and Voice Cast
DanMachi’s production boasts a talented team, with Egg Firm and J.C. Staff guiding animation and production across five seasons. Season directors have included Yusuke Onoda, Hideki Tachibana, Mitsuo Hashimoto, Yoshihiro Mori, and Risako Yoshida, while the writing team features Hideki Shirane and Miya Asakawa.
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The voice cast features some of Japan’s most recognized talent: Daisuke Namikawa as Dix Perdix, Ken Narita as Zanis Lustra, and key recurring voices for Bell, Hestia, and Ais. The cast has played an essential role in bringing these beloved characters to life, cementing the series’ reputation for both emotional nuance and dynamic action.
English dub director Kyle Colby Jones has made notable contributions, guiding the adaptation for Western audiences and reflecting on his initial skepticism about the series’ unconventional title. His comments underscore the franchise’s ability to surprise and charm even those who approach it with uncertainty.
Behind the scenes, Egg Firm producer Nobuhiro Osawa’s leadership is widely credited for maintaining the show’s direction and tone over the years. The combined efforts of the creative and technical crew are a key reason for DanMachi’s decade-long success.
Where to Stream DanMachi Now
Fans eager to revisit or catch up on DanMachi can currently stream every season of the anime, as well as its OVAs, on Crunchyroll. HIDIVE also serves as an official platform for select anniversary-related content and events, especially for those who want an immersive celebratory experience.
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The availability of DanMachi across multiple legal streaming platforms makes it easy for both new and existing fans to access the entire saga. Subtitled and dubbed versions are widely available, providing accessibility and flexibility for diverse audiences worldwide.
In addition to the main anime, related spin-off series, manga adaptations, and light novels can be found on popular digital and print storefronts, widening the accessibility of the DanMachi universe. As the 10th anniversary draws international attention, official streaming and reading options are sure to remain robust for the foreseeable future.
