The upcoming anime Sekiro: No Defeat, based on the award-winning video game Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice, should have been one of the most exciting announcements for anime and gaming fans. The game is famous for its intense sword fighting, dark atmosphere, and powerful story, so an anime version felt like the perfect match. However, instead of being celebrated, the project has already been surrounded by controversy, and the reason is artificial intelligence (AI).
Sekiro Anime Adaptation Faces Backlash Over AI Concerns
The issue began when a promotional image for the anime was released online. Some sharp-eyed fans noticed that a character’s hand looked oddly shaped, almost as if it had been generated by AI. This sparked immediate debate on social media. Many wondered if AI had been secretly used in the production. While one strange frame is not enough to prove anything, it was enough to plant doubt in people’s minds.
The production studio, Qzil.la, responded quickly by insisting that Sekiro: No Defeat is completely hand-drawn. But fans are still suspicious because the company has admitted in the past that it experiments with AI tools in other projects. This created a sense of distrust, especially among anime viewers who value the unique, human touch that traditional animation brings.
The controversy grew bigger when Crunchyroll, the streaming platform that will release the anime in 2026, was brought into the conversation. Crunchyroll has previously faced criticism after admitting that AI-generated subtitles had been used by a third-party vendor. Even though the company later promised not to use AI for creative work, fans have not forgotten, and the doubt remains.
The Bigger Question: Is AI the Future of Anime?
For many fans, this is not just about one anime. It represents a bigger concern about the future of the entire industry. Anime production is known for being difficult, with long hours and low pay for animators. AI could make the process faster and cheaper, but fans fear that it could also replace the artistry and passion that give anime its heart and soul.
