Chinese animation has been on a roll recently. The filmNe Zha 2has become a massive global hit, grossing over $2 billion since its debut in late January 2025 and becoming the highest-grossing animated film of all time, surpassing Pixar’sInside Out 2in the process. Now, after years of toiling behind the scenes in the Japanese animation industry,Chinese animators are setting their sights on action-oriented stories in the Shōnen anime genre.
A newly released trailerfor the upcoming Chinese animated seriesSuper Cube(akaChāo Néng Lì Fāng) is filled with stunning fight scenes, showcasing a deep understanding of action necessary in shows likeNarutoandJujutsu Kaisen, along with a willingness to push the boundaries of what has been done before.CouldSuper Cubebe the series that finally propels Chinese animation (known asdonghua) to the next level on an international stage?
From Manhua to Animation: TheSuper CubeStory
Great Power and Great Responsibility
Super Cubebegan as amanhua(Chinese comic) by Shuiluo Sheng Sheng, spanning 323 chapters and primarily available through online platforms such as INKR Comics and Mgeko. The story follows Wang Xiaoxiu, an ordinary high school student whose life takes a dramatic turn when he stumbles upon a mysterious cube. This strange artifact grants him extraordinary superpowers. At first, he struggles to understand and control his new abilities, all while dealing with the challenges of everyday life—including clashes with a local gang that preys on the weak.
However, as he begins to harness his powers, Wang realizes he has a greater purpose. No longer just a victim of circumstance, he steps up to protect those around him, using his abilities to fight injustice and uncover the true nature of the cube’s power. But Wang soon discovers he is not the only one seeking the cube’s secrets. Powerful enemies, including shadowy organizations and formidable fighters, emerge from the darkness, each determined to claim the artifact for their ends. As he battles increasingly dangerous foes, Wang embarks on a journey of self-discovery, learning what it truly means to wield power responsibly.
Social Media Buzz and Fan Excitement
The Rise of Chinese Animation
Produced by Big Firebird Animation in collaboration with Kuaikan Manhua and iQIYI Animation,theSuper Cubeanimation is scheduled to premiere on March 21on the Chinese iQIYI streaming platform. While no foreign release has been announced yet, the hype surrounding the new trailer may lead toSuper Cubebecoming accessible to international audiencesin the future.
As the premiere date approaches, excitement forSuper Cubeis building across social media. A TikTok video titled “Anime has a serious competitor!Chinese anime is releasing another bangercalledSuper Cube!” highlights the enthusiasm among anime fans. Over on Threads, one post sums up the anticipation perfectly: “Chinese animators are cooking hard. This new anime trailer looks insane.”
China Wants In On Anime, and One Crunchyroll Gem Proves the Industry Is Ready to Expand
One of Crunchyroll’s series, Link Click, proves donghuas might be overtaking anime with one of the most intriguing and original recent stories.
WithNe Zha 2breaking recordsandSuper Cubegenerating significant buzz, Chinese animation is proving to be a formidable force in the global entertainment industry. As more studios invest in high-quality storytelling and action-packed animation, the future looks bright for Chinese animators aiming to rival Japan’s dominance in the anime world.
