In a recent interview, George Wada, CEO of WIT Studio and Production IG, said that The single piece which is currently in production at WIT, will address two major flaws of the ongoing adaptation to attract new anime fans.

Wada acknowledged that the old 4:3 aspect ratio and animation techniques, along with the 1,000+ episode count, may deter new viewers from watching the iconic anime.

He highlighted the need to do One piece more visually appealing and accessible to younger audiences accustomed to modern animation styles.

“Due to technological advances, young people accustomed to watching modern anime may find the visuals of One Piece, which began airing 25 years ago, difficult to watch due to the different format.,” he said.

Wada added that Eiichiro Oda, the creator of One Piece, has a strong desire to spread Japanese manga to the world. It was because of this desire that the mangaka accepted the challenge of creating a live-action adaptation of One piecewhich is currently available to stream on Netflix.

The success of the live-action adaptation has definitely sparked more interest in the franchise. And, WIT Studio's new adaptation, The single pieceIt is intended to serve as a gateway for those unfamiliar with the anime, expanding the series' reach globally.

By improving the animation style and reducing the episode count, The single piece aims to reach wider audiences.

The new anime adaptation will also stream exclusively on Netflix.

“Both Mr. Oda and we share the desire to expand anime to people who are unfamiliar with it, even on a global scale, and 'The One Piece' was intended as a gateway to that.”, Wada said in the interview.

Additionally, Wada also emphasized the importance of working together with Toei Animation, the studio behind the original One piece anime, as both studios were committed to bringing the beloved series to a wider audience through companion projects.

Toei Animation also told us, “Please do your best, and we will continue to work hard on the latest episodes.” The idea is that the manga, anime, and live-action will move forward together, expanding the scope of One Piece.

George Wada, CEO of WIT Studio & Production IG

The new anime adaptation for the series, titled The single piecewas announced at Jump Festa 2024. Wit Studio will produce the remake with completely new animation and will start by adapting the East Blue Saga.

WIT Studio is known for its work on popular anime such as Attack on Titan and Vinland Saga. It is also animating the current hit Spy x Family together with Cloverworks.

Source: Real Sound