The cult-classic 2012 hack-and-slash game Lollipop Chainsaw, originally created by Suda51 and James Gunn, is being adapted into an anime series. Alongside this announcement, a new installment in the game series is currently in development. According to a recent press release from Nada Holdings, the upcoming game aims to both preserve and expand upon the original’s unique appeal.
Commitment to Original Spirit and Returning Team Members
The press release emphasized a strong dedication to maintaining the essence of the initial title, stating there is a
“firm commitment to honoring the spirit of the original work.”
It also mentioned that several key staff members involved in the original production are expected to return, signaling continuity in creative vision and quality.
Surprising Absence of Original Creators from Official Announcements
Despite being the original masterminds behind Lollipop Chainsaw, neither Suda51 nor James Gunn appear in any official capacity within the announcement or press materials for the new projects. This absence is notable given their integral roles in shaping the franchise’s identity.
Current Endeavors of James Gunn and Suda51
James Gunn is presently occupied with his work on the rebooted DC Universe, having recently released the new Superman film. Additionally, he has directed episodes of the second season of Peacemaker, which is scheduled for release in August. Meanwhile, Suda51 continues to develop new games, including the upcoming violent science-fiction action title Romeo is a Dead Man slated for 2026.
Legacy of Lollipop Chainsaw and the Original Game Remaster
Lollipop Chainsaw’s storyline follows Juliet, a cheerleader turned zombie hunter, who battles undead forces while protecting her boyfriend Nick—now a severed head attached to her belt. The series was refreshed recently through a remastered version called RePOP. Reflecting on his role in crafting the original game’s narrative, James Gunn once explained:
“What Suda asked me to do was to help create the characters, come up with the story. Some of the mechanics were already there and the sets, for lack of a better term, and it was up to me to basically create the characters, all the dialog in the game, and direct the actors.”
—James Gunn, Filmmaker
Looking Ahead: The Future of Lollipop Chainsaw and Related Projects
The announcement of the James Gunn Lollipop Chainsaw anime and a new game hints at renewed interest in the franchise, likely attracting both longtime fans and new audiences. With several original staff members returning, the new projects may retain much of the charm and style that defined the initial release. As Gunn and Suda51 pursue separate careers, their absence from the official statements raises questions about the creative direction moving forward.
