The iconic mecha anime series "Mobile Police Patlabor," originally created by the five-person team HEADGEAR, first announced the "Mobile Police Patlabor EZY" project back in 2024, teasing a 2026 launch.
Now, at the ongoing "First Aichi-Nagoya International Animation Film Festival (ANIAFF)" in Nagoya, Aichi Prefecture, it's been officially confirmed: "Mobile Police Patlabor EZY" will be released as an eight-episode series! This marks a complete revitalization of the classic mecha franchise, delivering an all-new animated experience.
Over the years, "Mobile Police Patlabor" has seen various adaptations, including OVAs, TV anime, and even theatrical films, solidifying its status as a pioneer in early mecha animation.
Die-hard fans are likely familiar with the "Mobile Police Patlabor EZY" project, as it was first announced way back in 2017 at the Annecy International Animated Film Festival in France. While the initial announcement sparked excitement, years passed without any concrete timeline, leaving many fans wondering if it was still happening. Now, after a long wait, the 2026 launch has been officially confirmed.
The festival event saw key figures take the stage, including Yutaka Izubuchi, who handled the original mechanical designs; Kazunori Ito, responsible for the screenplay; Taro Maki, President and CEO of GENCO and the festival's general producer; and Makoto Asanuma, President and CEO of Bandai Namco Filmworks. It was Maki who dropped the bombshell directly: "This time, there will be a total of eight episodes!"
Discussing the direction of the new series, director Izubuchi was candid: "I've always felt that the essence of 'Mobile Police Patlabor' lies in a series of 'stories that feel like side stories.' Each episode is self-contained, not following a grand main plot, but rather strung together by these 'side stories.' This new work will be a version that won't disappoint fans who 'just love that specific vibe.'"
"Mobile Police Patlabor EZY" will be produced by JC.STAFF, marking a change in animation studios for the long-awaited project. JC.STAFF's recent works include "The 2.5 Dimensional Seduction" and "One-Punch Man." It remains to be seen if JC.STAFF can deliver a standout work for this classic mecha series in the Reiwa era.
Yutaka Izubuchi, who previously worked on Patlabor's initial designs, will serve as director, with Kazunori Ito returning for series composition. Mechanical designs will be handled by Kanetake Ebikawa and Toshiaki Ihara, while character designs are by Takemitsu Sato.
▼ Scenes from the anime in production.
Also revealed previously was the design for the Ingram PLUS (AV-98plus), a modified version of the Ingram (AV-98) used by Special Vehicles Section 2.
While the official launch isn't until 2026 and the format (OVA or TV anime) is still unconfirmed, veteran fans are undoubtedly thrilled to see a new "Mobile Police Patlabor" project finally materialize. The ball's in JC.STAFF's court now to truly make it shine!