Shousetsuka ni Narou (en: Let’s Become a Novelist), Japan’s premier self-publishing web novel platform, revealed on May 26 that the count of commercial anime series based on its hosted novels has surpassed 200 (including those set to debut by the end of 2026). This achievement arrives as the platform observes its 22nd anniversary.
Famous for hits such as That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime, Mushoku Tensei, and Re:Zero, Shousetsuka Ni Narou is the birthplace of the “narou-kei” genre. A playful nod to the site’s name, this term encompasses popular fantasy themes like isekai, reincarnation/transmigration, and overpowered protagonists—elements widely adopted by many of the platform’s standout works.
With isekai titles enjoying global acclaim over recent years, it comes as no surprise that the number of narou-kei novels adapted into anime has already topped 200. To celebrate this milestone, the platform has launched a dedicated website tracking anime releases annually from 2013 to the present.
As per the announcement, Shousetsuka ni Narou continues to field a high volume of inquiries from companies seeking to commercialize novels on the platform via print and anime adaptations. However, this surge in interest has also led to more frequent disputes between authors and third parties. To address this, the platform is introducing the “Narou Partner Program,” a support initiative designed to guide authors through commercialization and connect companies with top-tier source material for media projects. The program is slated to commence in June 2026.
Notably, Shousetsuka ni Narou has also tackled the issue of AI-generated or AI-assisted content. To mitigate risks when web novels are adapted commercially, the platform will now mandate disclosure of AI usage. Authors must categorize their work based on AI involvement: Direct Use (final text generated by AI), Indirect Use (AI draft rewritten by the author), Auxiliary Use (AI for spell check, research, or brainstorming), and Not Used.