“Mobile Police Patlabor,” the iconic anime series from the five-member creative unit HEADGEAR, first announced “Mobile Police Patlabor EZY” back in 2024, teasing a 2026 launch.
Today, the official word dropped: “EZY” will hit Japanese theaters as a three-chapter, eight-episode saga! They also unveiled a new key visual and a special trailer, bridging the gap from the original “Patlabor” to “EZY,” alongside fresh details on the world-building, characters, and mecha designs. The theatrical run kicks off sequentially in Japan starting May 15.
“Mobile Police Patlabor” has a rich history, spanning OVAs, TV anime, and even feature films, solidifying its status as a pioneering mecha anime series.
Die-hard fans will definitely remember the "Mobile Police Patlabor EZY" project. It was first announced way back in 2017 at the Annecy International Animation Film Festival in France. While the news sparked excitement, years passed without any concrete timeline, leaving many fans wondering if it was still happening. Now, after a long wait, it's officially confirmed for a 2026 launch!
It's now confirmed: "EZY" will be released as an eight-episode, three-chapter theatrical series:
Episodes 1-6: Standalone, self-contained stories.
Episodes 7-8: A continuous narrative depicting the Second Unit's greatest crisis yet.
Directed by Yutaka Izubuchi, the new generation of main characters includes:
Towa Kuga (Ingram Unit 1 Pilot): Sumire Uesaka
Kyohei Amatori (Ingram Unit 1 Commander): Kikunosuke Toya
"EZY" is set in the 2030s, a time when Japan faces a continuous decline in its workforce, coupled with the widespread adoption of AI technology and automation. The once cutting-edge "Patlabor" units have now become part of the essential infrastructure supporting society. However, "independent Labors requiring human pilots" are gradually being replaced by autonomous robots, increasingly seen as obsolete.
Despite these changes, the Special Vehicles Section 2, tasked with protecting people and cities, remains steadfast. The Second Unit, piloting their tuned-up, upgraded old-model Type 98 AV Ingram—now known as the "AV-98 Plus Ingram"—will use their wit and courage to combat new-generation high-tech crime.
Still, for long-time fans, seeing a new "Patlabor" project is a huge relief. Now, all eyes are on J.C.Staff to see if they can truly deliver with this big-screen theatrical release!
"Mobile Police Patlabor EZY" Release Info
Eight Episodes / Three Chapters Theatrical Release
File 1: May 15, 2026
File 2: August 14, 2026
File 3: March 2027
▼ "Mobile Police Patlabor EZY" Special Trailer