Fans of both zombie survival and isekai action were surprised by the recent announcement of a crossover event between High School of the Dead and Arifureta: From Commonplace to World’s Strongest – Rebellion Soul. This unexpected collaboration marks the first time High School of the Dead has entered into a cross-franchise event, and the results are already creating buzz across anime and gaming communities. The crossover will be part of the ongoing Arifureta browser game, set to run from August 12 to August 25, 2025.
The event, titled “The Deadliest,” brings two characters from High School of the Dead into the Arifureta universe. Saeko Busujima and Saya Takagi, both popular characters from the original zombie series, will be featured as playable characters within the game.
Promotional visuals released ahead of the event depict them alongside Arifureta’s iconic vampire heroine Yue, giving fans a glimpse of the type of action and interactions they can expect. The artwork showcases new character designs specifically for the event, blending the gritty atmosphere of High School of the Dead with the high-fantasy aesthetic of Arifureta.
CTW Inc., the publisher behind the Arifureta – Rebellion Soul game hosted on the G123 platform, confirmed the details of the collaboration. Crossovers are a common tactic in mobile and browser games, often used to attract diverse fanbases and encourage in-game spending. However, what makes this event special is that it’s the first time a series rooted in zombie horror has partnered with an isekai action RPG. The result is a genre clash that feels both bold and refreshing.
High School of the Dead Franchise (Credits: Daisuke Satō and Shōji Satō)
High School of the Dead Enters Arifureta Game in First-Ever Crossover Event
The collaboration makes narrative and strategic sense. Though High School of the Dead is known for its apocalyptic tone and grounded survival horror, its characters are adaptable and capable in combat-heavy settings. Meanwhile, Arifureta is filled with monsters, magic, and betrayal, an environment where survival skills and quick thinking are equally important. The idea of characters like Saeko and Saya navigating magical dungeons or fighting fantasy creatures opens up many exciting possibilities.
The event will run for two weeks, giving players limited-time access to these guest characters and themed rewards. Saeko and Saya are expected to come with special attacks and visual effects reminiscent of their anime origins. Fans can also expect story content and short cutscenes that feature them interacting with Arifureta’s main cast.
These story segments will likely explore how they were transported into the game world and how they adapt to the new challenges they face. In-game rewards, login bonuses, and exclusive gear will be available throughout the event, all themed around the crossover.
This collaboration is also significant for another reason, it breathes new life into High School of the Dead, a series that has been dormant for years following the untimely death of its original creator, Daisuke Satō. While no new manga or anime has been announced, the event introduces the characters to a new generation of fans, some of whom may be encountering them for the first time. It’s a clever way to honor the series’ legacy while offering something new to longtime supporters.
Zombie Survival Meets Isekai Action in Explosive New Anime Game Collaboration
The fan response has been mostly enthusiastic. Many are praising the boldness of the crossover, while others are curious about how such different worlds will collide within the game. Some fans hope this collaboration could spark renewed interest in High School of the Dead, possibly leading to future projects or tributes. Others are simply excited to see their favorite characters again, even if only in a game setting. There’s also speculation about potential follow-ups, with fans wondering what other unexpected anime pairings might happen in the future.
High School of the Dead Franchise (Credits: Daisuke Satō and Shōji Satō)
In the end, this crossover is a celebration of anime creativity and fan service. It takes two very different series, one a gritty survival horror and the other a flashy fantasy epic, and finds a way to merge them in a way that feels exciting and respectful to both. Whether you’re a longtime fan of High School of the Dead, a devoted Arifureta follower, or simply someone who enjoys anime crossovers, this event is worth checking out.
As the August 12 start date approaches, more updates and in-game previews are expected. For now, fans can look forward to a one-of-a-kind event that combines undead chaos with magical warfare, proving once again that in the anime world, anything is possible.
High School of the Dead is available to watch online on Netflix .
The producer of Solo Leveling has shared big hopes for the future of the anime. With Season 3 already in the works, the creative team behind the hit series is aiming higher than ever. In a recent interview, the producer said they hope Solo Leveling can one day stand alongside the most legendary anime titles of all time, like One Piece and Dragon Ball.
This bold goal has caught the attention of fans around the world, especially those who have followed Solo Leveling since its webtoon origins. The anime’s first two seasons brought intense action, strong character development, and stunning animation. Now, with the story entering even bigger arcs, the team believes Season 3 could be a turning point.
Solo Leveling tells the story of Sung Jin-Woo, a weak hunter who suddenly gains the ability to grow stronger through a mysterious system. What begins as a simple dungeon-clearing mission soon turns into a journey across worlds, power struggles between humans and monsters, and epic battles that rival anything in shonen anime.
The anime adaptation, handled by A-1 Pictures, launched in 2024 and quickly gained a massive following. Fans praised its sharp animation, faithful storytelling, and powerful soundtrack. Both Season 1 and 2 stayed true to the spirit of the webtoon, while also enhancing key moments for television.
The show’s success wasn’t just limited to Korea and Japan. It also became a top-trending series on streaming platforms across the U.S., Europe, Southeast Asia, and Latin America.
Solo Leveling Franchise (Credits: Chugong)
Producer’s Big Dream
During the interview, the producer talked about how much the Solo Leveling team respects the legacy of long-running series like One Piece and Dragon Ball. These are shows that have shaped anime culture globally, reaching millions of fans and maintaining relevance for decades.
The producer admitted that Solo Leveling still has a long way to go. However, they expressed strong belief in the story’s potential. With new arcs that dive deeper into worldbuilding and emotional character moments, they believe Season 3 could be a “level-up” in quality and popularity.
They also emphasized how important it is to balance flashy action scenes with heartfelt storytelling. According to the producer, emotional depth is what helps shows endure and gain loyalty over time.The idea of Solo Leveling becoming as popular as One Piece and Dragon Ball sparked mixed reactions.
Some fans are excited by the producer’s confidence and share the dream of seeing Solo Leveling become a global icon. Others were more cautious, pointing out that those legendary series earned their fame through years of consistent success.
Still, there’s no denying that Solo Leveling is one of the most popular new anime in recent years. Its blend of power fantasy, dark twists, and character evolution has set it apart from other modern shows.
What to Expect in Season 3
Season 3 is expected to adapt the “Monarch War” arc, one of the most intense and dramatic parts of the series. This is where Jin-Woo faces increasingly powerful enemies and must make major sacrifices. The arc also expands on the lore behind the system, the rulers, and the source of Jin-Woo’s powers.
According to the team, fans can expect even more polished animation, deeper storytelling, and higher stakes than ever before. The production schedule for Season 3 has not been announced, but early reports suggest a 2026 release window.
Solo Leveling Franchise (Credits: Chugong)
Whether or not Solo Leveling reaches the same level as One Piece or Dragon Ball remains to be seen. Those shows have decades of history, dozens of arcs, and generations of fans. But Solo Leveling is still young, and with continued effort, it could become a modern classic in its own right.
The producer’s hope is not just about numbers or fame, it’s about creating something lasting. Something that fans will look back on and still talk about years from now. And if Solo Leveling keeps growing the way it has, that dream might just come true.
For now, fans eagerly await the next chapter of Jin-Woo’s journey, and the chance to see if Solo Leveling really can rise to the top of the anime world.
You can watch prior seasons of the anime on Crunchyroll .
