Forging the Future of Creative Expression
The “Shape the Future” project is more than a celebration; it’s a collaborative endeavor to expand the very boundaries of Live2D as an expressive art form. Throughout the year, a series of interconnected initiatives and content will unfold, designed to empower creators and collectively chart the path forward. The project’s name itself encapsulates this vision: to shape the evolving landscape of Live2D, hand-in-hand with the creative community. Updates and new initiatives will be continuously unveiled on the dedicated special website, serving as a hub for this dynamic journey.
Live2D 20th Anniversary Project “Shape the Future” Special Site
A Glimpse into Live2D’s Legacy: The “Current State” Report
To mark this significant milestone, Live2D has released a comprehensive research report, “Live2D: The Current State at 20 Years,” created in collaboration with Kadokawa ASCII Research Laboratories. Since its founding in 2006, Live2D has consistently pushed the envelope for creators, transforming from a mere software tool into a vibrant “field of expression” that has given rise to new professions, markets, and cultural phenomena. This report offers an insightful look into the expansive impact of Live2D on the creative world.
Research Report “Live2D: The Current State at 20 Years”
An Anthem for Tomorrow: The “Shape the Future” Theme Song
Kicking off the project with a resounding flourish, an original theme song, also titled “Shape the Future,” has been created. This musical piece serves as a heartfelt thank you to the creators who have journeyed with Live2D for two decades, while also painting an inspiring vision of the future they will collectively forge.
The creation of the theme song was a star-studded affair:
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Production: Aniplex SS Team
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Lyrics & Composition: Tomoya Tabuchi
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Arrangement: Shota Horie
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Vocals: VTuber Chima Machita from “Nijisanji,” herself a prominent figure in the Live2D ecosystem, lends her voice to this anthem.
The accompanying music video is a masterpiece of Live2D animation. It features character design, Live2D modeling, and animation direction by Ittsuka (@1_tuka), a Grand Prix winner of the Live2D Creative Awards 2017. Ittsuka’s expertise transforms just two drawn illustrations into an endless spectrum of emotional expressions, dynamically conveying the song’s profound message. The video direction is helmed by Okiku (@__Lizel), a prolific creator renowned for her hit music videos powered by Live2D, who skillfully merges rich animation with the song’s world.
“The way Live2D breathes life into every subtle emotion in the music video is simply breathtaking,” a fan might exclaim, reflecting the community’s excitement for this visual and auditory treat.
The music video is set to debut at “alive,” a Live2D creator event held in Tokyo on December 12, 2025 (Friday). Immediately following its premiere, at 12:30 PM JST on the same day, it will be released on YouTube for global viewing. The song itself is slated for a worldwide simultaneous release on various music streaming platforms thereafter.
Shaping the Global Future of Digital Kawaii
Live2D’s “Shape the Future” project stands as a testament to its enduring impact on digital art and, by extension, the global “Kawaii” culture. By fostering a collaborative environment and pushing technical boundaries, Live2D continues to empower artists to infuse their characters with an unparalleled depth of personality and emotion. This initiative, with its blend of cutting-edge technology, artistic talent, and community engagement, is poised to inspire a new generation of creators and further solidify Live2D’s role in shaping the future of animated characters and interactive digital experiences worldwide. The journey ahead promises to be as vibrant and expressive as the animations Live2D itself brings to life.
