Anime News

Zatch Bell! Latest Japanese Craze Hits the States
Date: 3/7/2005
Could it be the next Yu-Gi-Oh!?

Zatch Bell!, Japan's latest TCG/anime phenomenon, has hit American shores. The series debuted on the Cartoon Network March 5 and returns the tried and true formula of average kids acquiring fantastic powers. In this case it's all in the magic of the Spell Books (pictured below) - an item which is also the driving force behind the hot overseas trading card game (currently 2nd largest in Japan). Bandai America is banking on that popularity (and American acceptance of the 'toon) when it releases the game to the U.S. later this year.

And where does this all lead us? Toys of course. If Zatch Bell! is anywhere as popular as Yu-Gi-Oh! here in the States, retailers and fans will more than likely see an assortment of action figures and related product. The NY Licensing Show is right around the corner... stay tuned.
Source: Figures.com