If you think you’ve seen everything in the world of supernatural anime, Shabake arrives in 2026 to prove otherwise. Starring Ichitaro, a young man with the rare ability to see ayakashi (spirits), the 13-episode series delves into a historical mystery set in the Edo period, but with a major difference: it avoids cliché yokai. While kitsunes and tanukis do appear, the focus is on obscure creatures like the byobu nozoki and jakotsubaba, offering a fresh experience even for the most veteran fans. The relevance of the anime, therefore, lies precisely in its ability to innovate within an established genre, combining traditional investigation with less explored Japanese folklore.
The plot unfolds because Ichitaro does not use his gifts for magical solutions. On the contrary, he and his yokai guardians need to investigate like ordinary detectives, following clues and interviewing witnesses. In this way, the supernatural complements the mystery, without stealing the spotlight from the narrative puzzle. The result is a story where every detail matters, with no disposable elements, requiring the viewer’s full attention. Therefore, the series stands out at the beginning of the year as a mature and well-crafted option, perfect for those seeking something beyond the usual epic battles.
A Living World and Characters with Depth
In addition to the carefully woven plot, one of Shabake’s greatest strengths is its setting. The city of Edo is not just any backdrop, but a place that seems to breathe and exist beyond the screen. This is due to the integration of supernatural creatures into the society of the time and the personal conflicts of the characters, which are shaped by social conventions and family hierarchies of the period. The visuals, intentionally less flashy, reinforce this historical immersion, with kimonos in sober colors and competent animation that shines in specific scenes, such as those involving fire.
Thus, even those initially attracted by the promise of discovering rare yokai will find plenty of reasons to continue. The series delivers a satisfying mystery and a captivating cast, both human and spiritual. However, it’s good to warn: the anime does not provide didactic explanations about folklore. If you become interested in a specific creature, you may need to research on your own. Still, this is a small barrier for such a rewarding journey, which proves that mystery and fantasy can indeed form a perfect partnership.
