Fans of classic fantasy anime and literature can rejoice as Ryo Mizuno’s celebrated Record of Lodoss War: The Crown of the Covenant (Lodoss-tō Senki: Seiyaku no Hōkan) novel series prepares to resume its serialization. Kadokawa’s Sneaker Bunko imprint announced that while the publication of physical volume two requires additional development time, readers will soon get an early look at ongoing events through the Kakuyomu web platform.
Kadokawa initially launched the first volume of the novel back in September 2019, featuring striking character illustrations by artist Hidari. That release marked a major milestone for the broader franchise, serving as the first fresh literary entry for the iconic fantasy universe in over a decade. The narrative explores a renewed era of political tension and high adventure on the cursed isle of Lodoss, centering on young Prince Lyle of Marmo seeking the aid of the legendary high elf Deedlit.
A Storied Fantasy Legacy
Originating from the tabletop role-playing game sessions run by Group SNE, Record of Lodoss War has evolved over decades into a pillar of traditional fantasy anime and light novel culture. Mizuno’s expansive lore previously inspired the legendary 1990 original video animation (OVA) series alongside the 1998 television sequel Record of Lodoss War: Chronicles of the Heroic Knight, defining the aesthetic of early-90s dark fantasy for a generation of enthusiasts.
Alongside the upcoming web manuscript publication, the modern era of the franchise continues to expand. Udon Entertainment previously released the three-volume manga adaptation illustrated by Atsushi Suzumi in English, while Studio White launched the global webtoon spin-off Record of Lodoss War: Queen of Death. As new chapters of The Crown of the Covenant emerge, the timeless appeal of Lodoss remains as potent as ever.
