Studio BONES’ Rare Anime Streams Outside of Japan for the First Time

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Summary

  • Rare anime Hiwou War Chronicles by studio BONES now streaming worldwide except Japan.
  • Series marks BONES’ 25th anniversary and showcases dynamic movement and cuteness in remastered 4K.
  • Story follows Hiwou in Meiji Period facing challenges with Clockwork Dolls. President Minami shares love for original title.

For the first time ever, Crunchyroll has secured the rights to stream an exceptionally rare and distinctive anime series titled “Hiwou War Chronicles,” also known as “Clockwork Fighters Hiwou’s War.” This groundbreaking production marks the very first TV anime produced by the legendary studio BONES, and it is now available for viewing outside Japan. The show debuted in honor of the studio’s 25th anniversary, following the premiere of the documentary “BONES 25: DREAMING FORWARD” at the 3rd Niigata International Animation Film Festival 2025. This six-day event, held from March 15 to 20 in the Chūbu region (central Japan), showcased this highly anticipated series.

The “Dreaming Forward” documentary can be found on Crunchyroll as well, whereas the “Hiwou War Chronicles” anime is accessible for streaming globally with the exception of Japan.

About Hiwou War Chronicles

2000 ‘Til Infinity

Originally airing between October 2000 and March 2001 for a total of 26 episodes, the anime series known as “Hiwou War Chronicles” was created from an original manga written by Sho Aikawa, who is also known for his work on “Black Jack,” “Fullmetal Alchemist,” “Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood,” and “UN-GO.” This manga was serialized in Kodansha’s Magazine Z from 1999 to 2001 across four volumes. Later, Bandai Entertainment distributed the English version of the series under the title “Clockwork Fighters Hiwou’s War,” with three DVD volumes released between 2006 and 2008. The show featured character designs by Hajime Jinguji and Hiroshi Osaka, mecha designs by Junya Ishigaki, music by Hiroshi Yamaguchi, and animation direction by Hiroshi Osaka. Tetsuro Amino (known for his work on “Dirty Pair”) directed the series.

The Hiwou War Chronicles is BONES’ inaugural original production, so as creators, we poured a great deal of affection, creativity, and hard work into it. The adorable character designs are courtesy of Hiroshi Osaka, one of the studio’s co-founders, while the animation boasts numerous fluid movements. Originally created using 35mm film, we’ve since upgraded it to a stunning 4K digital master, enhancing its visual appeal once more. We genuinely hope you enjoy every episode and the thrilling journeys of Hiwou and his companions. Thank you!

– Studio BONES President Masahiko Minami

The tale of Hiwou War Chronicles unfolds in the Meiji Era (1868-1912), centering around a boy named Hiwou residing in a quaint town where locals construct and utilize “Clockwork Dolls” or “karakuri” for celebrations. However, their tranquil life is disrupted by the arrival of the “Wind Gang,” wreaking havoc on the town using their own Clockwork Dolls. Forced to flee, Hiwou along with his siblings and companions, carry a Clockwork Doll named Homura – acting like a colossal robot. Along their voyage, they’re compelled to employ Clockwork Dolls as weapons, an act that goes against the teachings of Hiwou’s father. BONES President Masahiko Minami announced the release of Hiwou War Chronicles, detailing that the series has been upgraded to 4K, emphasizing its adorable aesthetics and captivating movements.

Hiwou War Chronicles is available on Crunchyroll.

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2025-03-19 20:49