AMC Networks’ HIDIVE is adding new licenses to its simulcast library. For the 2026 Winter Anime season, the streamer has revealed that the new isekai action series HELL MODE: The Hardcore Gamer Dominates in Another World with Garbage Balancing—or just HELL MODE, for short—is joining the line-up. This isekai series joins Reincarnated as a Dragon Hatchling and others.
“We’re thrilled to announce that the anime adaptation of the wildly successful HELL MODE light novel series will be part of HIDIVE’s Winter 2026 slate,” John Ledford, President of HIDIVE, commented in the platform’s press release. “Fans will not want to miss a minute of this exciting new isekai action anime when it premieres as an exclusive simulcast series on HIDIVE in January. HELL MODE is sure to be a hit with audiences this winter!”
Get BWT in your inbox!
Get BWT in your inbox!
This new anime series is based on the hit light novel series created by Hamuo and is directed by Makoto Tamagawa, together with series composition by Daishiro Tanimura, character design by Kei Tsushima, and production by Yokohama Animation Lab.
What is HELL MODE?
Another story about a 30-something, this isekai hits a little differently. To sum it up, the gamer wants a harder difficulty for his MMORPG and, well, gets what he asks for.
The official synopsis from HIDIVE is featured below:
The series focuses on Kenichi Yamada, 35 35-year-old who has spent his life playing every single MMORPG he can get his hands on. Tired of new games that cater to casual players, he leaps at the chance to try out a never-ending game with an intimidating “Hell Mode” that raises the difficulty (and chances to level up) to impossible heights.
But, as soon as he selects the “Summoner,” Kenichi finds himself transported into the world of the game and reborn to a family of serfs as a baby named Allen! With nothing but his memories and wits to guide him, Allen sets off to conquer “Hell Mode,” unearth the secrets of the Summoner class, and free his newfound family from their fate.
Watch the Trailer
Hell Mode: The Hardcore Gamer Dominates In Another World With Garbage Balancing: Trailer | Jan 2026
Kenichi Yamada’s favorite game is shutting down… but his next adventure is just beginning. When he stumbles upon a mysterious “Hell Mode” game, Kenichi is reincarnated as a summoner in a brutal new world. With danger around every corner and the odds stacked against him, can he survive long enough to beat the game?
HELL MODE Cast
- Mutsumi Tamura as Allen
- Mayu Iizuka as Krena
- Tasuku Hatanaka as Dogora
- Sayaka Senbongi as Cecil
- Hideo Ishikawa as Rodin
- Sayaka Ohara as Theresia
- Makoto Koichi as Mash
Where to read the HELL MODE light novel?
Written by Hamuo, the HELL MODE light novel series first launched in November 2019 on Shōsetsuka ni Narō. Earth Star Entertainment acquired the title in July 2020 and has been publishing it under Earth Star Novel ever since. The light novel spans 12 volumes to date and has been adapted into a manga series that debuted in October 2020.
The English-language versions of both the light novel and manga are available in digital format from J-Novel Club. A print edition of the light novel is localized and published in English by Yen Press.
What is the HELL MODE release date?
We don’t have an exact release date just yet, but HELL MODE is scheduled to premiere this January. It will be available to subscribers in both the U.S. and Canada, as well as key overseas markets including the U.K., Ireland, Australia, and New Zealand.
Key Art Poster
Don’t have HIDIVE? Here’s what you should know!
HIDIVE is a fast-growing, fan-centric anime service and part of AMC Networks’ targeted streaming portfolio. From English subs and dubs to episodic series, movies, and more, HIDIVE delivers a full-tilt, genre-spanning experience with blockbusters, classics, and underrated masterpieces by Japan’s leading and emerging producers.
HIDIVE can be viewed on a wide array of platforms, including desktops, laptops, tablets, smartphones, and connected TVs, and is currently available by subscription in the U.S. and Canada, as well as key overseas markets such as the U.K., Ireland, Australia, and New Zealand
HIDIVE currently offers these top titles:
- Oshi No Ko
- Is it Wrong to Pick Up Girls in a Dungeon
- Call of the Night
- Rock is a Lady’s Modesty
- I Parry Everything
- The Dangers In My Heart
- Made In Abyss
