The much-anticipated anime series, Rascal Does Not Dream of Santa Claus, is returning to screens this summer, and with its recent trailer showcased at AnimeJapan 2025, fans are buzzing with excitement. Scheduled for release in July 2025, this new series marks a continuation of the beloved franchise that began with Rascal Does Not Dream of Bunny Girl Senpai, which first captivated audiences back in 2018.
This latest installment is set to adapt the University Arc from the original light novel series written by Hajime Kamoshida and illustrated by Keiji Mizoguchi. This arc brings viewers into the university life of the central character, Sakuta Azusagawa, who has previously dealt with peculiar occurrences known as "Puberty Syndrome," a defining feature of the franchise. Sakuta's evolution into adulthood and the new challenges that come with it promise to blend supernatural elements with a rich characterization that has become synonymous with the series.
At the AnimeJapan event, Aniplex of America confirmed the release window, thrilling fans further with insights into what they can expect. The trailer for Rascal Does Not Dream of Santa Claus not only teased the new storyline but also revealed the first opening theme, “Snowdrop,” performed by the music group Conton Candy. The fresh cinematic visuals, coupled with the nostalgic elements from the previous seasons, have reignited the excitement surrounding the franchise.
The narrative arc promises intriguing twists; as Sakuta transitions into university life at Kanazawa-hakkei alongside his girlfriend, Mai Sakurajima, he encounters a mysterious figure known as “Miniskirt Santa.” This character, seemingly integral to the plot, also intriguingly threatens to supplant Mai in Sakuta's memories. The premise unfolds as Sakuta embarks on a quest to uncover the truth about this new Santa figure and the various manifestations of another character, Touko Kirishima, who poses a complex mystery.
In the series synopsis, Aniplex tantalizingly outlines that, “After encountering various girls going through Puberty Syndrome, Sakuta Azusagawa’s high school days have come to a close, and he is now a university student. He enrolls at a university in Kanazawa-hakkei alongside his girlfriend Mai Sakurajima, a nationally famed actress.”
What follows is an exploration of both the challenges of university life and the bizarre events that again tie back to the inexplicable Puberty Syndrome. “I’m surprised. So, you can see me,” the Miniskirt Santa remarks in the trailer, inviting a plethora of oddities, including precognitive dreams and social media buzz surrounding the enigmatic phenomena.
Adding to the excitement of the return, the voice cast sees some familiar faces: Kaito Ishikawa and Asami Seto will reprise their roles as the older versions of Sakuta and Mai, respectively. New cast members also join the lineup, including Reina Ueda as the mysterious Miniskirt Santa, alongside Sora Amamiya as Uzuki Hirokawa, Aya Yamane as Ikumi Akagi, Konomi Kohara as Sara Himeji, Manaka Iwami as Miori Mito, and Inori Minase as Shoko Makinohara. Moreover, Soichi Matsui returns to direct this new series for CloverWorks, while Masahiro Yokotani will pen the series composition, and Satomi Tamura will oversee character designs.
Fans of the franchise are eagerly anticipating how the series will balance its signature comedic elements with the heavier themes of adolescence and growth. The juxtaposition of the whimsical Miniskirt Santa—a character who threatens to bring chaos to Sakuta's life—against the backdrop of a traditional university setting reinforces the show's dedication to infusing humor within its more serious explorations.
As Rascal Does Not Dream of Santa Claus prepares to debut, it is poised to continue the legacy of its predecessors while remaining true to the essence that has captured the hearts of its audience. The franchise has already expanded its reach, featuring multiple films and OVA specials following the original series, and now this upcoming anime aims to bring forth fresh narratives while revisiting beloved characters and themes.
The intricate balance between the supernatural and the relatable struggles of youth has set the stage for a complex story that will engage both new viewers and longtime fans. With the series' exploration of adolescence interwoven with supernatural occurrences, the stakes feel high as Sakuta aims to navigate this new chapter of his life.
As the countdown to the July 2025 premiere begins, anticipation builds for Rascal Does Not Dream of Santa Claus, a new entry that promises to captivate viewers with its blend of character-driven storytelling and fantastical elements. The series embodies a heartfelt exploration of growing up, finding balance amidst chaos, and the perpetual intrigue of Puberty Syndrome. In a world filled with whimsical occurrences and relatable emotional struggles, Sakuta's journey continues—leaving fans eager for the unraveling mysteries ahead.
