The donghua Lord of the Mysteries, also known as The Lord of the Mysteries, became one of the most anticipated releases of 2025.
Based on the popular web novel of the same name written by Cuttlefish That Loves Diving (pseudonym known as Sepia que Ama el Buceo), this steampunk Chinese anime with occult and Lovecraftian horror overtones, supernatural powers and religious conspiracies, as well as a Victorian-era setting, will arrive on global platforms such as Crunchyroll and WeTV on June 28.
In this article, we explore its literary origins, animation, dubbing, Victorian setting, and why this donghua is one of the year's most notable releases.
Literary origin and web novel
The novel The Lord of Mysteries was published in Qidian between 2018 and 2020, written by Cuttlefish Who Loves Diving .
This work stands out for its complex world-building, blend of steampunk, existential philosophy, and a system of supernatural powers through the use of potions, Tarot, and Beyonder paths.
Its sequel, Circle of Inevitability , continues to expand the universe with new protagonists and plots.
This literary success consolidated the franchise as a benchmark in the cosmological fantasy and occult horror genre.
Donghua adaptation by B.CMay Pictures studio
The animated adaptation is being handled by B.CMay Pictures , responsible for donghuas such as The King's Avatar and A Will Eternal .
This studio combines 2D and 3D animation techniques, creating, for this story, a Victorian steampunk environment full of steam engines, dark cities and supernatural creatures, completely immersive.
The first episode, released early on August 11, 2024, adapted the first 14 chapters of Volume 1: Clown, with a running time of approximately 30 minutes, which is expected to remain the same per episode throughout the animation.
Release date and platforms
The Donghua drama Lord of the Mysteries will premiere on June 28, 2025, on Tencent Video in China and globally on Crunchyroll, where a two-episode series will be released. It will also be available on WeTV in June.
The international version will include dubbing in English, Spanish, Portuguese, German, Japanese, Korean, and French, expanding its reach and accessibility to new audiences.
Plot and main characters
The story follows Zhou Mingrui, who transmigrates into the body of Klein Moretti in an alternate Victorian England with steampunk touches, shrouded in magic, secret societies, and dangerous mysteries.
Becoming a member of the mysterious Tarot Club, Klein walks a dangerous path as a Beyonder of the Fool's Path, facing dilemmas between light and darkness as he adapts to his new life, uncovering the mysteries of that world, and learning to control his new powers.
Throughout the plot, the protagonist takes on the roles of detective, secret leader, and occult avenger, exploring themes of justice, corruption, and inner madness.
Production and visual technique
The official trailer, released on networks such as X/Twitter, showcases gloomy landscapes, scenes of cosmic horror, and character designs faithful to the novel.
B.CMay has elevated the animation quality to levels comparable to the best Japanese action and fantasy anime. The mixed-media technique they employ enhances the mysterious atmosphere, confirming the promise of a first-class visual standard.
Multimedia expansion: RPG video game
The franchise isn't limited to donghua: a mobile RPG is also in development using Unreal Engine 5, seeking to replicate the dark, mystical world of Sefirah Castle, the paths of the Beyonder, and the Tarot and potion-based quests.
This project complements the animated series and expands the fan experience.
A new horizon for Chinese animation
The Donghua series Lord of the Mysteries promises to revolutionize Chinese animation with its premiere on June 28, 2025, available on Crunchyroll, WeTV, and Tencent Video.
With a solid literary foundation, a Victorian steampunk setting, a plot filled with occult and cosmic horror, philosophy and supernatural powers, and the support of B.CMay Pictures , this adaptation could mark a before and after in the genre.
Furthermore, the possible arrival of the RPG in Unreal Engine 5 points to a multimedia future for the series.
If you're passionate about dark worlds, religious conspiracies, Tarot, and esoteric intrigue, The Lord of Mysteries is a must-see.
Are you also waiting for it?
Don't forget to check out our Store and everything we have to offer.
