entertainment / Thursday, 28-Aug-2025

From Demon Slayer to Hunter x Hunter, Anime's Next Big Hit Is Dropping the Best Kind of Easter Eggs

With anime continuing to dominate streaming platforms, Witch Watch has emerged as Netflix’s latest magical hit. While the series offers the classic blend of humor, action, and supernatural antics, what truly sets it apart is its deep affection for anime culture itself. This is not just another fantasy comedy, it is a love letter to longtime fans, packed with nods to iconic series that reward the most dedicated otakus.

Among its standout characters is the eccentric teacher, whose hyper-awareness of anime and manga elevates every scene she is in. Her habit of comparing classroom chaos to legendary anime moments is more than just comic relief; it is a clever meta-commentary on the shared culture between creators and fans. As a self-proclaimed mega-otaku, her over-the-top reactions and sly references become inside jokes that make viewers feel like they are in on the fun.

Anime References as Magic Touches

Witch Watch Uses Other Anime References Brilliantly

One of the most memorable aspects of Witch Watch is how naturally it integrates anime references into its magical plotlines. When Nico uses a spell that causes students and their desks to cling to the walls, the teacher stares in awe and blurts out, “Did I just step into the Infinity Castle?” referencing the terrifying dimension from Demon Slayer. It is a hilarious and fitting comparison, and it is moments like these that make the show feel both fresh and nostalgic.

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Another gem comes when Nico casts a spell that makes Morihito’s hair shoot upward like a towering pillar. The teacher's reaction? “He turned into Gon?!”, a shoutout to Hunter x Hunter’s most dramatic transformation. These Easter eggs are not just fan service; they are organically woven into the story and enhance its charm without derailing the plot. Each reference feels like a high-five to anime lovers who have been along for the ride since the beginning.

Why It Works for Anime Fans

How and Why These References Are Great for Viewers

The reason these anime references hit so well is that they are delivered with both timing and love. The teacher does not just make random callouts, her reactions are believable within the context of the story, adding a layer of relatability for anyone who has ever compared their life to a favorite anime scene. It is a clever way of acknowledging the fandom’s shared language while keeping the tone light and accessible.

These moments also offer a bridge between new viewers and longtime fans. For newcomers, the anime references may be funny even without full context, but for seasoned anime watchers, they feel like personal shoutouts. It is a strategy that welcomes all audiences, creating a space where anime culture is both celebrated and normalized. If Witch Watch keeps this up, it might just become the next big cultural touchstone in the anime world.

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Your Rating

WITCH WATCH
TV-PG
Animation
Comedy
Sci-Fi & Fantasy
10.0/10
Release Date
April 6, 2025
Network
TBS, MBS, CBC, Tulip Television, BSN, tys, NBC, HBC, RKK, i-Television, SBS, IBC, BSS, MRO, OBS, TUF, RSK, TUY, tbc, RKB, SBC, KUTV, RBC, UTY, RCC, MRT, atv, MBC

Cast

See All
  • Cast Placeholder Image
    Rina Kawaguchi
    Nico Wakatsuki (voice)
  • Cast Placeholder Image
    Ryota Suzuki
    Morihito Otogi (voice)

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