What if World War I was fought with genetically engineered beasts and giant steam-powered machines? That’s exactly the premise behind Leviathan, the bestselling novel by Scott Westerfeld — and now, it’s being adapted into an anime series. If you’re a fan of steampunk, epic adventures, or alternate history with a twist, this adaptation might just become your next obsession.
In this post, we’ll break down everything we know about the upcoming Leviathan anime, why it’s a monumental event for sci-fi fans, and what makes this adaptation one of the most anticipated series in years.
🔥 What Is Leviathan About?
Leviathan is the first book in a steampunk trilogy written by Scott Westerfeld and illustrated by Keith Thompson. Set in an alternate timeline just before World War I, the story reimagines history with two clashing sides:
- The Clankers – Countries like Germany and Austria-Hungary that use mechanical war machines.
- The Darwinists – Britain and its allies, who have genetically fabricated animals and living airships.
The plot follows:
- Aleksandar Ferdinand – A young prince on the run after his parents are assassinated.
- Deryn Sharp – A Scottish girl who disguises herself as a boy to join the British Air Service.
Their fates intertwine aboard the Leviathan, a massive whale-like airship, as the world plunges into war.
The book is rich with political intrigue, imaginative tech, and emotional growth — making it perfect anime material.
👨💻 Who Is Scott Westerfeld?
Scott Westerfeld is a New York Times bestselling author known for blending sci-fi, YA fiction, and dystopian themes. He rose to fame with the Uglies series, but Leviathan proved he could masterfully fuse alternate history and steampunk.
Westerfeld’s writing is:
- Accessible yet deep
- Filled with social commentary
- Visually rich (ideal for animation)
The trilogy — Leviathan, Behemoth, and Goliath — sold millions of copies and became a cult favorite among young adult readers.
📢 The Anime Announcement – What We Know So Far
As of now, the anime adaptation of Leviathan has been officially greenlit, with rumors suggesting a 2025 release window.
🎬 Production Rumors (to be confirmed):
- Studio: Speculated to be MAPPA or Wit Studio (both known for visual brilliance)
- Director: Not officially announced, but fans are hoping for someone with epic storytelling experience
- Format: Full-length TV series, not a movie
- Episode count: Estimated at 12–24 depending on reception and coverage of the trilogy
While full details are still under wraps, the announcement itself has already ignited major buzz across anime and sci-fi communities.
🌌 Why Leviathan Is Perfect for Anime
✅ 1. Unique Visuals
The Leviathan world is visually explosive:
- Airships made from whale-DNA
- Mechanical walkers that resemble giant insects
- Exotic battlefields with bio-engineered creatures
This mix of biology and machinery is a goldmine for animation studios.
✅ 2. Strong Characters
Deryn and Alek are both complex and relatable. Their growth, banter, and inner struggles add emotional depth to the high-stakes adventure.
✅ 3. Steampunk Renaissance
Steampunk anime like Fullmetal Alchemist and Last Exile have massive fanbases. Leviathan fits that mold but brings something fresh to the table — World War I with sci-fi flair.
🗨️ Fan Reactions – The Internet Is Buzzing
Here’s what people are saying across the web:
“I’ve been WAITING for this for over a decade.” – Reddit user
“This story has the potential to be the next Attack on Titan if done right.” – Twitter/X thread
“Please just stay faithful to the books. That’s all I ask.” – Tumblr fan blog
Hashtags like #LeviathanAnime and #WesterfeldAdaptation have started trending, even before an official teaser trailer dropped.
📚 Will the Anime Stay True to the Books?
That’s the big question.
While some liberties are expected, here’s what fans are hoping:
- A faithful portrayal of Alek and Deryn’s relationship (including gender identity themes)
- Keith Thompson’s original creature designs adapted closely
- Inclusion of all three books over multiple seasons
There’s a real opportunity to do justice to the themes of war, science, identity, and loyalty that made the novels iconic.
⚙️ The Biggest Challenges in Adapting Leviathan
1. Steampunk Accuracy
Steampunk can easily become too flashy or confusing. Balance is key.
2. Historical Fiction Handling
WWI themes must be treated with nuance, even in an alternate timeline.
3. World-Building Compression
Packing in enough context without slowing the pacing will be a challenge.
If the studio nails these areas, this anime could become legendary.
📅 Release Date, Streaming Platforms & Expectations
🕒 Expected Release:
- Late 2025 is the current unofficial timeline.
- Production is likely in pre-animation or script finalization stages.
📺 Streaming Possibilities:
- Crunchyroll – Strong contender due to focus on high-quality adaptations
- Netflix – Known for acquiring book-based anime (The Witcher, Castlevania)
- Funimation or Hulu – Potential partners depending on region rights
Wherever it lands, expect major global distribution due to the book’s international fanbase.
🚀 Final Thoughts – Why You Should Be Excited
If you:
- Love steampunk
- Miss deep character storytelling
- Crave unique, non-generic anime
- Want a mix of science, war, and emotional arcs…
… then Leviathan is your next must-watch.
This isn’t just another adaptation — it’s a chance to redefine the steampunk genre in anime. With the right team, the right style, and respect for Westerfeld’s original vision, Leviathan could become the next anime cult classic.
✅ TL;DR (Quick Summary)
| 🔍 | Info |
|---|---|
| 📖 Original Novel | Leviathan by Scott Westerfeld |
| 🎬 Anime Format | Full TV Series (likely multi-season) |
| 🗓️ Release | Expected late 2025 |
| 🔥 Genre | Steampunk, Sci-fi, Alternate History |
| 👥 Characters | Alek, Deryn, Dr. Barlow, and more |
| 🎨 Visual Style | Bio-mechanical & steampunk fusion |
| 🧠 Why It Matters | Fresh concept, strong story, huge fanbase |
