Netflix’s acclaimed Japanese sci-fi thriller Alice in Borderland is returning for its highly anticipated third season, debuting globally on September 25, 2025. The show, adapted from Haro Aso’s best-selling manga, has cemented itself as Netflix’s most successful Japanese series of all time, captivating audiences far beyond Japan and becoming a worldwide phenomenon.
With its mix of psychological tension, brutal survival games, and deeply human stories, the series has struck a chord with fans who are drawn to both the spectacle and the emotional depth of its characters. Ahead of the launch, stars Kento Yamazaki (Arisu) and Tao Tsuchiya (Usagi) shared their thoughts on the show’s growing global popularity, the intense trauma woven into its narrative, and what it feels like to return to this universe for another round of challenges.
A Global Phenomenon Beyond Japan
When Alice in Borderland debuted in December 2020, it arrived at a time when global audiences were hungry for fresh and unique content. The show quickly established itself as a standout in the “death game” genre, blending survival drama with philosophical undertones. By the time season two premiered in December 2022, Netflix reported that the series had been streamed for over 200 million hours in just four weeks, making it the most-watched Japanese title in the platform’s history.
Even more impressively, the show landed in Netflix’s Top 10 charts in more than 90 countries, showcasing its universal appeal. It wasn’t just a Japanese success story; it was proof that manga-based live-action adaptations could capture global audiences when handled with authenticity and care.
Speaking on this reception, Yamazaki admitted that the overwhelming response initially surprised him but also reaffirmed the team’s vision:
“I was surprised at the beginning, but I’m elated that global fans have embraced this show. From the very first season, we had the resolve to create something for a worldwide audience. To see that passion resonate up to season three is very fulfilling.”
Tsuchiya echoed his sentiments, adding that the universality of the show’s themes made it easy for people across different cultures to connect with it:
“Borderland mirrors parts of our real lives—our schools, workplaces, or even the world of acting. Survival is part of our existence, and that makes the story relatable across cultures. That’s why I think the global audience has responded so strongly.”
The Dark Core: Trauma and Survival
While Alice in Borderland dazzles with action, strategy, and dystopian set-pieces, at its heart lies something much deeper: trauma. The characters are not simply competing in games for survival—they are constantly grappling with grief, fear, loss, and despair. Themes such as suicide, depression, and mortality run through the narrative, giving the series an emotional weight that distinguishes it from others in the genre.
For Yamazaki and Tsuchiya, embodying their characters through such relentless trauma has been emotionally taxing.
Yamazaki admitted:
“Yes, absolutely! The material takes a toll on you. There were many moments that challenged me deeply, but working through that gave me confidence in the project. Knowing that this story has moved people worldwide makes the struggle worthwhile. Getting to season three feels like vindication.”
Tsuchiya explained how the cast and crew found ways to prevent the heaviness of the themes from overwhelming them:
“When you immerse yourself in such dark emotions for too long, it can affect your mental and physical health. On set, we consciously tried to balance the darkness with laughter. I was constantly talking with Kento, with the crew, and that helped turn something brutal into something filled with love. That sense of camaraderie kept us grounded.”
Season 3: A New Beginning in the Borderland
The third season takes the narrative in a bold new direction. At the end of season two, Arisu and Usagi appeared to have “escaped” the Borderland, waking up in a hospital after surviving a meteor strike on Shibuya. With their memories of the games erased, it seemed like the ordeal was over.
However, as Netflix’s official logline reveals, the nightmare is far from finished. In season three, Usagi is abducted and left unconscious by a mysterious scholar obsessed with the afterlife. This forces Arisu back into the Borderland, where he must team up with new players to face the enigmatic “Joker” stage—the most perilous challenge yet.
The return of Shinsuke Sato as director and co-writer ensures continuity in the show’s tone and vision. Alongside Yamazaki and Tsuchiya, the season introduces a roster of fresh faces, including Hayato Isomura, Ayaka Miyoshi, Katsuya Maiguma, Koji Ohkura, Risa Sudou, Hiroyuki Ikeuchi, Tina Tamashiro, Kotaro Daigo, Hyunri, Sakura Kiryu, Yugo Mikawa, Joey Iwanaga, Akana Ikeda, and Kento Kaku.
This expanded cast hints at larger stakes and more complex dynamics as the players face the Joker stage.
Behind the Scenes: The Tokyo Launch Event
Netflix underscored the importance of Alice in Borderland for its Japanese slate by hosting a lavish launch event in Tokyo earlier this month. The event featured interactive games, a merchandise pop-up shop, and a red-carpet-style premiere where fans and influencers mingled with the cast.
Interestingly, the event attracted not only Japanese celebrities but also international personalities, including AEW wrestling superstar Kenny Omega, who speaks fluent Japanese and revealed that Alice in Borderland is his favorite show. His presence highlighted just how far the series has penetrated global pop culture.
Living With the Characters for Over Five Years
For Yamazaki and Tsuchiya, returning to their roles after more than five years is both nostalgic and challenging. Playing Arisu and Usagi has become a defining chapter of their careers, one that has required immense emotional commitment.
Yamazaki reflected on the responsibility of continuing such a beloved story:
“Being part of season three comes with pressure because the audience loves this series so much. But our team is incredible, and that filled me with joy on set. If the story continues in any form—whether a season four or a spin-off—I’d be very keen to return.”
Tsuchiya admitted she initially thought season two had provided a natural conclusion to the saga. Yet, the promise of season three—and the evolution of her character Usagi—sparked her curiosity:
“After season two, I thought the story had ended beautifully, so I was surprised when they presented me with season three. In this new season, Usagi is pregnant, and that opens up entirely new dimensions. Her desire for her child to live in a better world adds a familial depth to the narrative. Exploring that future would be fascinating.”
Trauma, Resilience, and Humanity at the Core
What makes Alice in Borderland stand out among dystopian dramas is not just the spectacle of the games but its focus on human resilience. Trauma is not presented as a backdrop but as a central theme, shaping how characters relate to each other and themselves.
The show reminds viewers that survival is not merely about strategy or luck but also about emotional strength, trust, and the ability to find hope in despair. The balance of brutal intensity with moments of love, laughter, and humanity ensures that audiences remain invested not only in who survives but in why survival matters.
The Road Ahead for Alice in Borderland
As fans gear up for season three, expectations are sky-high. With the introduction of the Joker stage, new characters, and deeper explorations of Arisu and Usagi’s emotional journey, the series is poised to once again dominate Netflix’s global charts.
For Yamazaki and Tsuchiya, the experience of portraying such complex characters has been as transformative for them as it has been for audiences. Their openness about grappling with trauma while maintaining resilience mirrors the very themes of the show.
Whether season three provides a definitive conclusion or opens the door to spin-offs and future stories, one thing is clear: Alice in Borderland has redefined the global potential of Japanese storytelling on streaming platforms.
