infinite dendrogram second season

Infinite Dendrogram Season 2: Is There Hope for a New Season?

Infinite Dendrogram is an anime series that debuted in 2020, combining elements of game and fantasy genres. Adapted from Sakon Kaidō’s light novel, the series quickly gained attention due to its immersive world-building and engaging storyline. With its initial broadcasting on major channels in Japan and worldwide distribution by Funimation, Amazon Prime, and Hulu TV, the anime gained global attention. Produced by the well-known Japanese animation studio NAZ, which also worked on ID: Invaded, the series aired from January 9, 2020, to April 16, 2020. However, fans have been eagerly awaiting news about a second season and the wait is still ongoing even after 5  years of the anime’s first debut. So, will Infinite Dendrogram return, or has its journey ended?

What is the Plotline of the Anime?

Set in 2043, Infinite Dendrogram introduces viewers to the world’s first successful VRMMO, which promises endless possibilities and realistic simulations of the five senses. The protagonist, Reiji Mukudori, finally gets his hands on the game two years after its launch. Accompanied by his experienced brother Shuu and his partner Embryo, Reiji dives into a vibrant world brimming with adventure and challenges. With its mix of futuristic elements and emotional depth, the anime created a unique space within the isekai genre.

infinite dendrogram
©Funimation

Will There Be a Second Season of Infinite Dendrogram?

As of January 9, 2025, Studio NAZ has yet to confirm a second season for Infinite Dendrogram. Similarly, Hobby Japan, the publisher of the light novel series, has remained silent on this matter. While this lack of updates may seem discouraging, it’s worth noting that anime renewals often take years, particularly when source material and financial considerations come into play.

Let’s delve into key factors such as source material, popularity, and financial performance to gauge the likelihood of a second season.

Light Novel and Manga Updates: Is There Enough Material?

The Infinite Dendrogram anime is based on Sakon Kaidō’s light novel series, illustrated by Taiki. The light novels, published by Hobby Japan, began in January 2016 and are ongoing. With 21 volumes published as of October 2024, the series has ample material for not just one but potentially multiple new seasons. The first season of the anime covered the first five volumes, leaving a significant amount of untapped storylines that could be adapted.

On the manga side, there has been a notable update: the manga adaptation, which began in 2016, concluded in September 2023 with its 10th volume. While the manga’s completion adds closure to the story for readers, it also reduces its role in promoting future seasons of the anime.

20%
Light Novel Adaptation Rate

Popularity: Does Infinite Dendrogram Have a Strong Fanbase?

For an anime to secure a sequel, it must demonstrate a strong fanbase and financial viability. Unfortunately, Infinite Dendrogram struggles in this department. While its distribution through Hulu and Funimation helped it reach international audiences, its Google search trends and social media following remain modest.

The anime’s official X page has around 10,000 followers—a relatively low figure compared to other anime with sequels, which often boast over 100,000 followers. Moreover, although the social media account still exists, they have not shared any updates for more than a year. On the other hand, the anime’s Blu-ray and DVD sales averaged only 405 units per volume, far below the industry standard for financially successful anime.

Financial Viability and Studio NAZ’s Recent Projects

Studio NAZ’s recent projects, such as ID: Invaded, have been well-received, but the studio has not announced plans to revisit Infinite Dendrogram. Given the low disc sales and the series’ lukewarm popularity, producing a second season might not be financially viable. Studios often prioritize projects that promise higher returns or serve as marketing for other media, such as ongoing light novels or merchandise sales.

infinite dendrogram second season
2nd Season Chance of Infinite Dendrogram
Popularity on Mynanimelist
57
Popularity on Social Media
50
Popularity on Google Searches
47
Success in Disc Sales
52
Reader Rating21 Votes
71
Positives
Big Distributor such as Hulu, Amazon Prime
Enough Light Novel Source Material Availability
Ongoing Light Novel Series
Negatives
Only One Season
Below Average Reviews (6.20 on Myanimelist, 5.9 on IMDb)
Below Average Popularity
No Best Seller Manga or Light Novel Series
No Success in Disc Sales
20
Renewal Possibility

When is Infinite Dendrogram Season 2?

The chances for a second season of Infinite Dendrogram appear slim, but not impossible. The availability of source material and the light novel’s continued publication work in the anime’s favor. However, its low popularity metrics and poor disc sales are significant hurdles. Anime production is often unpredictable, and surprises do happen. However, without a major surge in popularity or a new marketing push, the likelihood of a second season remains low. If a second season were to be greenlit, production timelines suggest that fans would not see it before late 2025 or 2026. This estimate accounts for the typical time required for pre-production, animation, and marketing. For now, fans can only hope for an announcement while supporting the light novels and other related media.

While Infinite Dendrogram offers a rich and immersive story that fans would love to see continued, the current indicators do not show a high chance of a second season. If you enjoy similar genres, you might want to explore anime like Overlord or How Not to Summon a Demon Lord. Stay tuned for updates, as the anime world is full of surprises!