Background[]
Aniplex was founded by Sony Group Corporation as SPE Visual Works, in 1995. originally as a joint-venture between Sony Pictures Entertainment Japan and Sony Music Entertainment Japan. Aniplex has been involved in the planning, production and distribution of several anime series and films. Additionally, Aniplex produces and distributes music and soundtrack records, including the original soundtracks for all of Sony Interactive Entertainment's computer and video games.
SPE Visual Works and SME Visual Works[]
(1997-2002)[]
Logo: On a white background, a pair of connected blue letters are seen reading "VW", with a pair of cartoony eyes looking to the upper left. Below it is either "SPE Visual Works Inc." (January 1997-January 2001) or "SME Visual Works Inc." (January 2001-2002) in a sans-serif font.
FX/SFX: Still digital graphic
Music/Sounds: None
Availability: Can be seen on various releases of their anime from the era, like Ruronin Kenshin.
Aniplex[]
2003-Present[]
Logo: On a black background, outlined squares of various colors (blue, purple, magenta, red, magenta, purple and blue) spin from the left side of the screen to the right. Each square as it goes past reveals a letter that spells out the company name "ANIPLEX". The squares and letters spin around a little as they come on before eventually stopping. Each letter is surrounded by the squares. The blue boxes are facing straight forward, the purple squares are slightly tilted to their respective sides, the magenta squares are almost fully tilted, and the red square only shows a red line that goes through the "P".
Trivia:
- A still version is exists with the white background
- A warped speed version is exists
FX/SFX: Computer animation
Music/Sounds: A warping/spinning noise as the squares/letters spin into view, which is followed by a tired-sounding and stuttering robotic voice saying, "ANIPLEX". The warp-speed version just has the voice.
Availability:
- This logo is found on just about all DVD and Blu-ray releases of Aniplex programs, being them distributed by Aniplex themselves or other companies. This also includes re-releases of older programs and select video games.
- The logo was also available on UMD releases for the PSP.
- It can also be seen on many shows, OVAs, and movies on many channels.
- The short version primarily appears on Japanese commercials and American TV broadcasts of their anime.