Lollipop Chainsaw Sequel Announced by Unconventional Publisher

More than a decade after its initial release, Lollipop Chainsaw is receiving a sequel and an anime spin-off.

The new video game is being developed by Dragami Games, the successor to the original publisher Kadokawa Games, which launched the remastered version Lollipop Chainsaw RePop last year for PC and consoles.

Lollipop Chainsaw earned a cult following in 2012 thanks to its cheerleader-led, undead-slashing hack-and-slash gameplay. It was directed by Suda51 of No More Heroes fame and co-written by James Gunn—yes, the same James Gunn now behind Superman and the DCU, though this was years before Guardians of the Galaxy.

According to today's press release, the franchise has sold 1.5 million units to date, with the majority—at least 1.24 million—coming from the original game rather than the recent remaster.

That remaster received mixed reviews, partly due to the absence of the original licensed soundtrack and its delayed release after Dragami shifted from plans for a full remake. The change came after fans expressed a desire for a version that stayed as close as possible to the original.

Today's sequel announcement again emphasizes a commitment to meeting fan expectations. It also mentions the return of "key staff members" from the original, though no involvement from Suda51 or James Gunn is confirmed.

"Through a strong collaboration between Nada Holdings and Dragami Games, development is now underway on a new Lollipop Chainsaw title that respects and expands on the original's appeal," the announcement states.

"With a focus on honoring the spirit of the original, the development team includes key members from the previous game. The new project is also guided by close attention to fan feedback."

The statement concludes by reaffirming the sequel's commitment to the "distinctive tone" of the original, noting it won't be toned down due to "DEI" concerns—implying that the game’s signature style, including its cheerleader outfits, will remain intact.

"As with the original, the new title aims to deliver a world rich in dark humor," the announcement reads. "The development process will stay faithful to the unique tone of the original, avoiding excessive creative limitations in the name of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion."

No release date for Lollipop Chainsaw 2 has been announced.