No, March Comes in Like a Lion Season 3 isn’t confirmed yet. There’s no official release date. Studio Shaft hasn’t announced renewal, leaving fans waiting since the second season ended in 2018.
Hasn’t it been too long since Rei Kiriyama’s story left us hanging? The emotional depth of March Comes in Like a Lion still resonates, with its blend of shogi and heartfelt drama. Fans are desperate for a third season, but the silence is deafening. Here’s everything you need to know about the chances of Season 3, potential release, and what might come next.
Is March Comes in Like a Lion Season 3 Confirmed?
No confirmation exists for March Comes in Like a Lion Season 3. Studio Shaft and NHK have stayed quiet since Season 2 aired in 2018. Despite the anime’s critical acclaim and loyal fanbase, no official word has surfaced. The lack of updates frustrates fans, but hope persists due to the manga’s ongoing success and the show’s strong reception. For now, we’re stuck waiting, holding onto Rei’s journey like a shogi piece in a tense match.
When Could Season 3 Release?
Without confirmation, a release date is speculative. If greenlit in 2025, production timelines suggest a premiere around late 2026 or early 2027, considering Studio Shaft’s busy schedule with projects like Magia Record. Anime production often takes 12–18 months, and March’s detailed animation demands time. Fans might wait longer if the studio prioritizes finishing the manga first. Until an announcement drops, any date is a guess, but optimism keeps us glued to the board.
Why Hasn’t March Comes in Like a Lion Season 3 Happened Yet?
Several factors stall Season 3. Studio Shaft’s packed slate, including Monogatari and Madoka Magica, likely takes precedence. The manga, while ongoing, releases slowly, and producers may want more source material to avoid filler. Season 2’s Blu-ray sales, averaging 2,273 units, were decent but below the 4,000-unit threshold studios often need for renewals. Global popularity lags compared to mainstream anime, despite Netflix and Crunchyroll support. These hurdles dim prospects, yet the story’s depth keeps hope alive.
Enough Source Material for Season 3?
Yes, there’s ample manga for Season 3. The first two seasons adapted volumes 1–9, covering 89 chapters. As of 2023, the manga has 17 volumes with over 200 chapters, leaving plenty unadapted. Chica Umino’s ongoing series could support at least two more seasons. The slow English translation, with only three volumes available, frustrates fans, but the Japanese source is rich. If Shaft moves forward, Rei’s next chapter has more than enough material to shine. Now, if you want to continue the story from where the anime ended, have a look at Sangatsu no Lion Manga in English.
What Would Season 3’s Plot Be?
Season 3 would likely pick up from chapter 90, diving deeper into Rei’s growth as a shogi player and person. Expect darker characters like Fujimoto Radio, a lion-haired rival, and Seijiro, the Kawamoto sisters’ estranged father, stirring drama. Akari’s love life might spark, with Hayashida and Shimada vying for her attention. Rei’s emotional battles, paired with intense shogi matches, would balance heartache and hope, keeping the series’ signature warmth and depth intact. The stakes feel higher than ever.
Who Would Return for Season 3?
The core cast should return if Season 3 happens. Kengo Kawanishi (Rei Kiriyama), Ai Kayano (Akari Kawamoto), Kana Hanazawa (Hinata), and Yuka Terasaki (Momo) would likely reprise their roles, delivering the emotional weight fans love. Studio Shaft’s team, including director Akiyuki Shinbo and composer Yukari Hashimoto, would maintain the anime’s distinct style. New characters like Fujimoto Radio might bring fresh voices, but the Kawamoto sisters and Rei remain the heart of this touching story.
Where Can I Watch Seasons 1 and 2 While Waiting?
Seasons 1 and 2 are available on Crunchyroll and Netflix, with English dubs and subs. Aniplex of America’s Blu-rays offer a collector’s option, though they’re pricier. NHK G’s original broadcasts are harder to access outside Japan, but streaming platforms cover most regions. Binge Rei’s journey to relive the shogi matches and Kawamoto family warmth. It’s a perfect way to stay connected to the story while hoping for Season 3 news. Check your region’s availability
Will Fans Ever Get March Comes in Like a Lion Season 3?
The odds are uncertain but not hopeless. The manga’s success, with over 3 million copies sold, and the anime’s high MyAnimeList ranking (#12) fuel optimism. Yet, Shaft’s priorities and modest global demand complicate things. A 60% chance feels realistic, hinging on NHK or Netflix pushing for renewal. Fans deserve Rei’s next chapter, but it’s a waiting game. Keep your eyes on Studio Shaft’s moves, surprises happen when you least expect them in this industry.
Follow the Updates
This rollercoaster of hope and patience isn’t over yet. Check out Standing on a Million Lives Season 3, 91 Days season 2, Solo Leveling Season 3, or 07-Ghost Season 2.
Or Join the AnimeNextSeason newsletter, Twitter, our Facebook page, or Bluesky for updates. The second Season 3 news breaks, I’ll shout it from the rooftops. Until then, keep rooting for Rei and the Kawamoto sisters, let’s hold onto this heartfelt journey together!