The creator of the Azuki NFT collection, Chiru Labs, is expanding its digital footprint and enhancing its anime-focused entertainment offerings by launching Anime.com.

Anime.com Testnet Phase and Future Plans

Chiru Labs, the creator of the Azuki NFT collection, has acquired the domain Anime.com. This move aligns with Chiru Labs' strategy to deepen its involvement in the anime industry, aiming to elevate the anime experience for its audience. The launch of Anime.com is part of a broader strategy to expand the Azuki Entertainment Division beyond just NFT sales.

The Azuki team announced on September 13 that Anime.com had been launched as a non-fungible token domain. The testnet is currently live, enabling users to mint digital stickers as NFTs. 

While specific details about the platform's future remain limited, the Azuki team has outlined plans to evolve Anime.com further, potentially integrating it with the Azuki ecosystem and introducing digital assets like Animecoin.

Creating an Open Anime Universe

Led by the pseudonymous Zagabond, the Azuki team is working towards establishing an open anime universe, drawing inspiration from both traditional and modern animation techniques. Azuki's approach echoes the success of projects like Doodles, aiming to build a unique digital space for anime enthusiasts. 

This announcement follows the recent addition of Hollywood veterans Mark Goffman and Jessica Turner to the team. Their expertise is expected to guide a multi-year roadmap for Azuki, focusing on expanding reach through user-generated content (UGC).

Short-Form Content and User Engagement

Azuki has already ventured into short-form content by releasing its first mini-short cartoon film, "Mizuki," featuring characters from its Elemental #9195 NFT collection. The project aims to attract a new audience by telling compelling stories and showcasing moments from the Azuki universe. 

As Zagabond noted, 

"Web3 native IPs have shown the ability to build strong communities through short-form content. This is ideal for social media, but we’re ready to elevate our storytelling even more."

User Participation and Minting Process

Anime.com is currently inviting users to join the waitlist and collect limited-edition stickers. The process involves visiting Anime.com, entering an email address, and minting up to three stickers as NFTs. With around 40 stickers available, each varies in rarity. Importantly, the minting process is free of cryptocurrency transactions and gas fees, simplifying user participation.

By emphasizing community engagement and innovative storytelling, Azuki is creating more opportunities for both creators and fans. This approach could lead to new collaborations and partnerships within the anime industry, offering fans novel ways to interact with their favorite characters and narratives.

Disclaimer: This article is provided for informational purposes only. It is not offered or intended to be used as legal, tax, investment, financial, or other advice.