I had started posting screenshots of various eyecatch images before I even knew what an eyecatch was called. It was a follower of mine on Facebook mentioned that these images and animations were called an eyecatch. Which then led me to do some research. I am working on using eyecatch screenshots with my anime calendars and figured it would be a good time to share what I know about them.

Definition of Eyecatch

An eyecatch is displayed when an anime goes to or comes back from a commercial. This form of eyecatch can also be called a commercial bumper. They are also used to mark the first and last half of the episode or show multiple sections within a single episode.

The purpose of an eyecatch is to mark the transition between the first and second halves of an episode. They also provide entertainment and occasionally provide information for the viewers. They can change throughout the anime, episode by episode, or they may be a single depicted eyecatch for the entirety of the anime or the arc.

Anime eyecatches are usually done by the anime studio responsible for the anime. Which is why they match and work with the anime so well. An eyecatch can be presented in various ways, depending on the style and tone of the anime.

Some common approaches to eyecatch are:

• Humour: The focus of the eyecatch is to use jokes, gags, or funny situations to make the viewers laugh. They often feature chibi versions of the characters, exaggerated expressions, or fourth-wall-breaking comments.
• Provide Information: These provide useful and interesting information about the anime. This can include information about characters, random trivia, or background details.
• Artistic Creativity and Liberties: Artistic eyecatches use beautiful or striking images to create a visual impact. They often use different art styles, colours, or effects to showcase the characters, themes, or mood of the anime.
• Enhancing the viewing experience: An eyecatch can be used to get the viewer involved with what they are viewing, like with Pokemon’s “Who’s that Pokemon?” segment.

The eyecatch can be short animations, just the anime name or logo, stills from the anime, or artwork related to the anime. These stills can also provide more information relating to the series. In Attack on Titan, the eyecatch provides ‘currently known’ information that has been revealed. In Death Note, the eyecatch shares the rules for using the notebook. In romance anime, the eyecatch tends to lean towards softer colours and whimsical feels, and in Ecchi anime, they lean more towards the fan service side.

The history or origin of eyecatch in anime is not very clear, but there are some theories. Personally, I like the theory that eyecatches were historically used in anime to act as a way for the TV audience to identify what show was currently running, hence the name of the show being present. Which makes sense considering older methods of watching anime on TV. Especially if you do not have a programming schedule, if there were changes to the said schedule, or if you missed the intro song. The days before the information button on a remote and long before online streaming.

Some of the earliest examples of eyecatches in anime can be traced back to the 1970s, such as Mazinger Z (1972), Space Battleship Yamato (1974), and Mobile Suit Gundam (1979). As anime evolved over the decades, so did the eyecatches. They became more diverse and creative, reflecting the style and tone of the anime.

They are a unique and creative way of enhancing the anime experience and connecting with us as anime viewers. Eyecatches are a beloved part of anime culture and history, and they will likely continue to evolve and amuse.

Examples of Eyecatch in Anime:

For other anime terminology, check out the anime dictionary. Here are some examples of the types of eyecatch you can find in anime.

One Piece

High School of the Dead

My One-Hit Kill Sister [Isekai One Turn Kill Nee-san]

Pokemon

Wotakoi Love is Hard for Otaku (Wotaku ni Koi wa Muzukashii)

Haikyuu!!

What are some of your favourite eyecatches from anime?