It has been over three years since 86 (Eighty-Six) finished airing, and fans are still waiting for official news about a second season. The anime adaptation, based on the light novels by Asato Asato, aired in two parts from 2021 to 2022. These two parts were part of a single season, not two separate ones, although many fans mistook them as Season 1 and Season 2.
Since the finale, viewers have hoped for a continuation. The story of Lena and Shinei, and the rest of the Spearhead Squadron, left a strong impression. With more light novel volumes available and a solid fanbase, many expected a second season to be announced soon. But time passed without a word from the production studio, A-1 Pictures, or any of the official staff.
Now in 2025, rumors have started to appear suggesting that production for 86 Season 2 might finally be underway. Several fans have claimed on social media that internal sources point to a release in 2026. Some even say that voice actors and artists have been quietly asked to return. Still, none of this has been confirmed by any official announcements.
Within the anime community, fans are cautious. While some are excited, others remind people not to get their hopes up too quickly. It’s not the first time such rumors have spread. Earlier years also saw similar reports, which turned out to be false or unverified.
However, something feels different this time. Several anime industry insiders have mentioned that A-1 Pictures is finishing up other major projects. These include recent shows that took a lot of time and staff. With those wrapping up, it seems more likely that the studio now has room to focus on 86 again.
86 Season 2 Rumored to Be in Production After Years of Silence
Another reason for optimism is the original light novel series. The anime only covered volumes one through three. Since then, more than ten volumes have been published, giving the studio plenty of material to adapt. The story becomes even more emotional and action-packed in later volumes. Fans are eager to see new characters, advanced mechs, and the deeper worldbuilding that unfolds.
For some fans, the wait has been too long. Online, people share messages like “It’s a crime there’s no Season 2 yet,” and “This anime deserves better.” Many believe the series is one of the most touching and underrated war dramas in anime. It mixes powerful action with deep emotional storytelling, and the animation quality was praised when it first aired.
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A big question on people’s minds is whether the original team will return. The first season was praised for its music, direction, animation, and storytelling. Viewers hope that the same voice cast and staff will work on the second season. A change in director or studio could affect the final result. So far, there is no information about who would handle the sequel, if it is indeed in production.
Fans have also noticed that recent anime trends favor sequels. Studios are now more likely to return to popular titles rather than start entirely new ones. Series like Vinland Saga, Re:Zero, and Classroom of the Elite have all received new seasons after years of silence. That gives 86 fans some hope.
Hope Returns for 86 Anime Fans as Sequel May Finally Be Underway
Some people are even starting petitions online to ask the studio for Season 2. Others continue to buy the light novels and Blu-rays to show their support. Social media discussions, fan art, and reviews of the show keep the series alive in the public eye. This fan engagement may help convince the producers that interest still exists.
What made 86 special was its mix of sci-fi battles and real human pain. The show didn’t shy away from dark themes. It tackled discrimination, war, and trauma through the eyes of young soldiers. Viewers connected deeply with Shinei, Lena, and the rest of the squad. Many fans say they want closure, both for the characters and the story.
If the rumors are true, and 86 Season 2 really is in production, it could return as early as 2026. However, until an official announcement is made by the studio or production committee, everything remains uncertain. Still, anime history shows that long waits aren’t always a bad sign. Some of the most beloved sequels have arrived after years of delay.
For now, fans continue to wait. They rewatch the old episodes, read the novels, and hold on to hope. The world of 86 is too rich to end after just one season. Whether in 2026 or later, many believe that the Spearhead Squadron will return, and when they do, they’ll have more to fight for than ever before.
You can watch 86 season 1 on Crunchyroll.
