What is an ova?

OVA stands for Original Video Animation. It's an animated film or episode that's released directly to home video (DVD, Blu-ray, etc.) or online, rather than being broadcast on television first.

Here's some key information about OVAs:

• Direct-to-video release: This is their defining characteristic. They skip the traditional television broadcast route.

• Varying length: OVAs can range from a single short episode to a full-length movie, or even a series of episodes released over time.

• Content diversity: They cover a wide range of genres and target audiences, from children's animation to mature-themed works. This often allows for greater creative freedom compared to television series, which sometimes have stricter censorship or content guidelines.

• Often connected to existing series: Many OVAs are spin-offs, side stories, or "what if" scenarios based on popular anime series. They might bridge gaps in the main storyline, offer extra character development, or simply provide more content for dedicated fans.

• Production differences: OVAs aren't always produced with the same budget or production values as television anime. This can vary greatly depending on the series and studio.

• Target Audience: While some OVAs are created for a broader audience, others are specifically aimed at niche groups or fans of a particular franchise.

• Examples: Many popular anime franchises have OVAs, including Naruto, Dragon Ball, Sailor Moon, and countless others. These OVAs often explore supplementary storylines or provide additional backstory.

In short, OVAs offer a flexible format for studios to explore different storytelling avenues, cater to dedicated fanbases, and experiment with creative approaches that might not be suitable for a standard television series.