The Isekai genre (Otherworld) has recently become one of the most popular storytelling methods, with countless series sending protagonists to entirely different worlds. Among the many Isekai anime released over the years, one title has stood the test of time and created a huge legacy: Inuyasha.
Inuyasha: An Early Isekai Example Often Overlooked
The original Inuyasha manga debuted in 1996, created by the legendary Rumiko Takahashi, and the anime adaptation by Sunrise premiered in 2000. The story follows Kagome, who finds herself transported back to Japan’s Sengoku period, where she encounters Inuyasha and faces various demonic threats.
Initially, Inuyasha was not commonly classified as an Isekai, but by plot standards, Kagome’s journey from her everyday life to another world makes it one of the earliest examples of this subgenre.
Inuyasha’s North American Success Thanks to Adult Swim
Inuyasha achieved massive success in North America, largely due to the support of the major platform Cartoon Network.
It premiered as part of the Adult Swim block on Cartoon Network in 2002. Airing late at night during this adult-oriented programming block allowed the series to broadcast uncensored scenes.
Like Dragon Ball Z and Cowboy Bebop, this Isekai anime reached iconic status. Even today, memes about the anime’s ending, which aired late at night for years, continue to circulate online.
With nearly two hundred episodes spanning the original series and its sequel (Inuyasha: The Final Act), the franchise also released several movies to expand its universe. Of course, Inuyasha’s story didn’t end there.
The Next Generation and Takahashi’s New Project
A decade after the original anime ended in 2010, Yashahime: Princess Half-Demon shocked the anime world when it was announced. This surprising sequel introduced the daughters of both Inuyasha and Sesshomaru in a direct continuation.
Although Yashahime didn’t reach the same heights as its predecessor, its 48 episodes still continued the world’s story in unexpected ways.
While there’s no news yet on Inuyasha’s return, Rumiko Takahashi is currently working on a major new project: her latest manga Mao, which began in 2019. It focuses on supernatural themes and features an art style reminiscent of Inuyasha. This manga is also getting an anime adaptation set to premiere next year from Sunrise, highlighting the strong relationship between Takahashi and the studio.
Even if we never see new Inuyasha stories again, this Isekai universe won’t be forgotten anytime soon thanks to the love of its fans.