In a move set to greatly expand the anime streaming landscape in the UK, Crunchyroll, a name synonymous with anime, has inked a global distribution deal with Amazon’s Prime Video.
The collaboration, announced this week, allows Prime members in the UK, US, Canada, and Sweden to stream Crunchyroll’s vast library through Prime Video Channels.
This partnership promises to usher in a new era of anime streaming by integrating Crunchyroll’s offerings within the robust Prime Video ecosystem, making it easier for UK fans to delve into the expansive world of anime.
What Is Crunchyroll?
Crunchyroll is a premier platform dedicated to bringing anime and manga to fans across the globe.
With a rich history dating back to 2006, it has steadily grown into a hub where anime enthusiasts can explore a vast range of titles spanning numerous genres.
The platform offers one of the largest collections of licensed anime translated into multiple languages, making it a go-to destination for fans worldwide.
Some notable titles available on Crunchyroll include iconic series like Naruto Shippuden, Attack on Titan, Ghost In the Shell and One Piece (which recently received a live-action version on Netflix).
Whether you are into action, adventure, fantasy, or romance, Crunchyroll’s extensive library ensures there’s something for every anime aficionado.
Hits like JUJUTSU KAISEN and Re:Zero – Starting Life in Another World also find a home on Crunchyroll, keeping fans updated with the latest trends in the anime world.
Moreover, Crunchyroll offers simulcasts, where top series are available immediately after their broadcast in Japan. This allows fans to stay updated with their favourite series without the usual wait associated with international releases.
Crunchyroll Coming To Prime Video
Crunchyroll, acclaimed as the ultimate home for anime enthusiasts globally, now extends its reach through Prime Video Channels.
The new avenue offers two Crunchyroll membership tiers – the Fan tier costs £4.99/month, and the Mega Fan tier is £5.99/month.
Both memberships offer ad-free streaming and full access to the entire Crunchyroll library. However, Mega Fan subscribers are also treated to offline viewing (the ability to download content), with more non-video benefits to be added soon.
The pricing is identical to what you would get on Crunchyroll’s own website and app.
However, unlike Crunchyroll’s standalone platform that offers free content with ads, the Prime Video version operates strictly on a subscription-only, ad-free basis.
This might appeal to viewers who favour an uninterrupted viewing experience, although it may deter those accustomed to Crunchyroll’s free, ad-supported model.
With the Prime Video integration, British anime aficionados can now enjoy a colossal library boasting 24,000 hours, 46,000 episodes, covering over 1,300 series and films, soon after their release in Japan.
In the US, a 24/7 free (with adverts) Crunchyroll linear channel has also been added to Amazon’s free streaming service – Freevee, with a curated catalogue of fan-favourite anime content.
However, Amazon confirmed to us that the ad-supported linear Crunchyroll channel won’t be coming to Freevee in the UK at this time.
What Are Amazon’s Prime Video Channels?
For those who might be new to the concept, Prime Video Channels (see the full selection) are an add-on that allows Amazon Prime members to add additional paid streaming services to their existing Prime Video account.
This means you can consolidate your streaming subscriptions into one place (and one bill), making it easier to manage and navigate through your favourite content.
The service operates on an à la carte model, allowing users to pick and choose the premium channels they want without being tied into a long-term contract.
Channels range from well-known brands like Paramount+ and Lionsgate+ to more niche offerings. Even TNT Sports was recently added as a Prime Video Channel, as part of a Discovery+ Premium subscription.
Once subscribed, you can access these channels directly through the Prime Video app on various devices, including smartphones, tablets, smart TVs, and gaming consoles.
One of the major advantages of Prime Video Channels is the flexibility it offers. You can cancel any channel subscription at any time, giving you the freedom to tailor your streaming experience according to your preferences and needs.
One important aspect to note, is that you must have an Amazon Prime subscription first (or Prime Video), and then you can add the channels on top of that – which means these channels aren’t available to everyone (But you can get a free 30-days trial of Amazon Prime).
Ghost in the Shell is not on UK’s Crunchyroll.