However, Funimation still exists as a platform, and is even simulcasting many of Fall 22’s biggest series. So, what’s the current progress on their merger and what should fans expect going forward? Discover: Crunchyroll vs Funimation: Which Is Better For Anime Streaming?
What Happened to Funimation and Crunchyroll?
On Tuesday 1st March, both Funimation and Crunchyroll announced that Funimation’s anime library, along with smaller platforms Wakanim and Crunchyroll VRV, would all now appear on the Crunchyroll platform. They also released a trailer for the very special occasion: The official announcement stated that Funimation content will be moving onto the Crunchyroll platform, starting immediately. However, it was later clarified that only around 80% of the Funimation library would be moved over initially, and some shows continue to be transferred months later. Beyond this massive library change, Crunchyroll would be continuing as normal. Funimation, on the other hand, would only get new episodes of currently airing shows going forward.
Will Crunchyroll Change Due to the Funimation Merger?
Ever since the Funimation and Crunchyroll merger, it’s been expected that Crunchyroll will undergo significant changes. While no major aesthetic changes have happened yet, Crunchyroll has been making plenty of moves to prepare for such changes in the near future. Initially, when the merger was confirmed, Crunchyroll said that prices wouldn’t change. However, in the last few months, prices have increased or decreased in almost all international regions. The latest move was in October when Crunchyroll increased its prices and removes legacy features ahead of a ’new website’. There’s no doubt that the anime library on Crunchyroll has massively increased due to the Funimation merger, so the new website might be to support that. However, many fans have been calling for improvements to Crunchyroll’s interface, particularly how it presents subs and dubs in multiple languages as individual seasons.
What Will Happen to Funimation?
While it wasn’t explicitly mentioned at the time, everyone has expected since the merger that the Funimation anime service will shut down. When that will happen, though, is anyone’s guess. Since the Spring 2022 anime season, only Crunchyroll has been streaming brand new series, such as Spy x Family and Chainsaw Man. While Funimation has simulcast some new seasons for existing shows, like Mob Psycho 100 Season 3, it is directing viewers to Crunchyroll for the major new titles. Many months after the initial merger announcement, Funimation is still operating. However, some fans are noticing certain popular ’legacy titles’, such as Naruto, being removed from the platform.
Will Users Be Able to Merge Their Funimation Accounts with Crunchyroll?
At the time of the merger’s announcement, there were a lot of questions regarding what this will mean for people whose primary streaming platform is currently Funimation. In the announcement on Funimation and Crunchyroll, they urged users to “move to a Crunchyroll account as soon as possible.” Crunchyroll stated that they were trying to move features such as favourites and watchlists from Funimation accounts to Crunchyroll accounts, but did not explain how this will work. “We’re working on it” was the message.
Can Funimation Subscribers Get Refunds Due to the Crunchyroll Merger?
With yearly subscription options available, some Funimation customers may ask for their money back if previously-expected shows don’t appear on the site. Based on what fans have experienced so far, it looks like refunds aren’t available, but there are some alternative options. Officially, subscribers of Funimation or the other subsidiaries are being offered a 60-day free trial of Crunchyroll, which is longer than new fans. They are also encouraged to contact customer support if they have a Funimation account with time left. While not officially announced, subscribers have said that, after contacting customer support, they were able to transfer any remaining time on their Funimation subscription to a new or existing Crunchyroll account, saving money on their new subscription. Learn More: Is a Funimation Subscription Still Worth it Following Crunchyroll Merger?
