Gate (novel series)

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Gate, or Gate: Jieitai Kano Chi nite, Kaku Tatakaeri, is a Japanese fantasy series created by Takumi Yanai with art by Daisuke Izuka and Kurojishi. It began as a web novel (2006–2009) on Arcadia and was later published as a light novel by AlphaPolis (2010–2015), totaling 10 volumes (5 main and 5 side stories). A manga adaptation by Satoru Sao started in 2011 and has numerous volumes, along with several spin-off manga that began in 2015.

An anime adaptation by A-1 Pictures aired in two parts: mid-2015 and early-2016, totaling 24 episodes and later released on Blu-ray/DVD in North America by Sentai Filmworks. A sequel light novel series, Gate Season 2: Jieitai Kano Umi nite, Kaku Tatakaeri, began in 2017, and a prequel novel, Gate 0, was published 2021–2022. There are multiple manga spin-offs, and an anime adaptation of the sequel was announced for 2025. A manga adaptation of Gate 0 was released in 2024.

Plot in simple terms:
In modern Tokyo, a mysterious Gate to another world appears in Ginza, bringing medieval soldiers and monsters. The Japan Self-Defense Forces use modern weapons to fight them and establish a base in the other world’s Special Region. The story follows Yōji Itami, a JSDF officer who uses his knowledge of fantasy to navigate the new world and help its people, including Princess Piña Co Lada. As peace talks and diplomacy unfold, political tensions rise at home and with other nations who want to exploit the new world. The Gate also threatens to pull the two worlds apart.

Reception and impact:
The series has sold millions of copies (over 4.2 million copies by 2017 and more than 6 million by 2021) and sparked discussions about its political themes and its portrayal of the military. It inspired several manga, light novels, an anime, and merchandise, including a pachislot game released in 2018.