A spellbinding new chapter in global animation awaits as the Chinese animated series Lord of the Mysteries prepares for its worldwide debut on Crunchyroll, Tencent Video, and Muse, launching with a two-episode premiere on June 28, 2025. Adapted from Cuttlefish That Loves Diving’s celebrated web novel, this steampunk-infused supernatural epic, animated by B.CMay Pictures, promises to enthrall viewers with its intricate narrative and stunning visuals, redefining the isekai genre for a global audience.
The official synopsis of Lord of Mysteries sets the stage for a gripping tale:
In a Victorian world of steam, dreadnoughts, and occult horrors, Zhou Mingrui awakens as Klein Moretti. He walks a razor’s edge between light and darkness, entangled with warring Churches. This is the legend of unlimited potential…and unspeakable danger.
The story follows Zhou Mingrui, a modern Chinese man reincarnated as Klein Moretti in an alternate Victorian world where steam-powered technology coexists with Tarot-based rituals and cosmic entities. As a “Beyonder,” Klein gains supernatural abilities through mystical potions, navigating a treacherous society of ancient cults, divine Churches, and lurking horrors.
Unlike conventional isekai narratives reliant on overpowered heroes or game-like systems, Lord of the Mysteries distinguishes itself with psychological depth and meticulous world-building. Klein Moretti emerges as a compelling protagonist, blending cunning and vulnerability in a richly detailed setting. The original web novel, serialized on Qidian from 2018 to 2020 across 1,394 chapters, has captivated millions with its layered lore and character-driven storytelling, setting high expectations for this adaptation.
B.CMay Pictures Crafts a Visual Spectacle
Helmed by B.CMay Pictures, known for The King’s Avatar and The Master of Diabolism, Lord of the Mysteries is directed by Xiong Ke, whose work on Mo Dao Zu Shi showcased his knack for blending atmosphere and action. The series employs a mix of 2D and 3D animation to bring its fog-laden, steampunk world to life, with trailers revealing intricate cityscapes, dynamic combat, and chilling supernatural designs. From clattering steam engines to the flicker of occult rituals, the production promises a feast for the eyes.
The Mandarin voice cast is led by Shangqing Sui as Klein Moretti, a veteran voice actor known for Link Click and Tales of Demons and Gods. The series will launch with dubs in English, Latin American Spanish, Brazilian Portuguese, Japanese, German, Korean, and French, ensuring broad accessibility and reflecting its ambition to resonate with a global audience.
Lord of the Mysteries marks a milestone for donghua’s international presence, with Crunchyroll’s platform amplifying its reach alongside hits like To Be Hero X and Solo Leveling. The June 28 premiere will introduce the 13-episode first season, adapting the Clown arc from the novel’s opening volume. Planned for five seasons of 30-minute episodes, the series aims to capture the full scope of the eight-volume novel and its side story. Tencent’s backing has ensured compliance with China’s censorship standards, particularly for the story’s darker elements, paving the way for a seamless global release.
The premiere of Lord of the Mysteries arrives as Chinese animation gains momentum, challenging the dominance of Japanese anime. With its fusion of Western steampunk, Lovecraftian horror, and Chinese mythological influences, the series stands to rival 2025’s major anime releases, such as Dandadan and Fire Force. The web novel’s English publication by Yen Press, beginning with Volume 1 on June 10, 2025, and an upcoming Unreal Engine 5 mobile RPG, Code: Mystery, highlight the franchise’s growing multimedia footprint.
Lord of the Mysteries offers a fresh take on isekai, trading familiar tropes for a darker, more introspective narrative steeped in mystery and cosmic stakes. Its arrival signals donghua’s evolving artistry and global appeal, making it a compelling entry point for newcomers and a landmark for fans of Chinese animation. As June 28 nears, viewers can prepare to step into Klein Moretti’s fog-shrouded world, where every choice teeters between light and unspeakable danger.
Source: Press Release
