View source for Azur Lane

{{Short description|2017 video game and its franchise}}
{{Use mdy dates|date=December 2020}}
{{Infobox animanga/Header
| name = ''Azur Lane''
| image = Azur_Lane_English_Release_Logo.png
| caption = English release logo
| ja_kanji = アズールレーン
| ja_romaji = Azūru Rēn
| genre = [[Action film|Action]], [[military]]<ref>{{cite web |last1=Ashcraft |first1=Brian |title=Your Spring 2019 Anime Guide |url=https://www.kotaku.com.au/2019/10/your-spring-2019-anime-guide/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200324082148/https://www.kotaku.com.au/2019/10/your-spring-2019-anime-guide/ |url-status=dead |archive-date=March 24, 2020 |website=[[Kotaku]] |access-date=May 21, 2020 |date=October 5, 2019}}</ref><!-- Note: Use and cite reliable sources to identify genre/s, not personal interpretation. Please don't include more than three genres (per [[MOS:A&M]]). -->
| creator = 
}}
{{Infobox animanga/Game
| title       =
| developer   = Shanghai Manjuu, Xiamen Yongshi
| publisher   = {{vgrelease|CHN|[[Bilibili]]|JP/WW|[[Yostar]]|KR|XD Global|HK/MAC/TW|PWB Play}}
| designer    =
| director    =
| producer    = Yuwan{{efn|name=yuwan}}
| music       = Shade<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://twitter.com/shade0123/status/950655388965257222|title=Shade@アズレンアレンジＣＤ委託開始 on Twitter|work=Twitter|access-date=August 17, 2018|language=en}}</ref><br>Deadball P<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://twitter.com/deadballp/status/969065987528998912|title=槇タケポン＠デP@アズールレーンのイベント曲、担当させていただきました！ on Twitter|work=Twitter|access-date=October 1, 2018|language=en}}</ref>
| genre       = [[Shoot 'em up]], [[construction and management simulation]], [[role-playing video game]]
| engine      = [[Unity (game engine)|Unity]]
| platforms   = [[Android (operating system)|Android]], [[iOS]]
| released    = {{vgrelease|CHN|May 25, 2017|JP|September 14, 2017|KR|February 27, 2018|WW|May 20, 2019<!-- Do NOT change this to August 2018. This is supposed to be formal release date. Referenced in article. -->|HK/MAC/TW|October 4, 2019}}
}}
{{collapsed infobox section begin}}
{{Infobox animanga/Game
| title       = Azur Lane Crosswave
| developer   = [[Felistella]]
| publisher   = {{vgrelease|JP|[[Compile Heart]]|TW|Justdan|[[English language|EN]]|[[Idea Factory International]]}}
| designer    =
| director    =
| producer    =
| music       =
| genre       = [[Third-person shooter]], [[construction and management simulation]]
| engine      = [[Unreal Engine 4]]
| platforms   = [[PlayStation 4]]<br>[[Windows]]<br>[[Nintendo Switch]]
| released    = '''PS4'''{{vgrelease|JP|August 29, 2019|WW|February 13, 2020}}'''Windows'''{{vgrelease|WW|February 13, 2020}}'''Nintendo Switch'''{{vgrelease|JP|September 17, 2020|NA|February 16, 2021|EU|February 19, 2021}}
}}
{{Infobox animanga/Video
| type        = tv series
| director    = Tensho
| producer    =
| writer      = Jin Haganeya
| music       = [[Yasunori Nishiki]]
| studio      = [[Bibury Animation Studios]]
| licensee    = [[Crunchyroll]]
| network     = [[Tokyo MX]], [[Sun Television|SUN]], [[Kyoto Broadcasting System|KBS]], [[Nippon BS Broadcasting|BS11]], [[AT-X (company)|AT-X]]
| network_en  =
| first       = October 3, 2019
| last        = March 20, 2020
| episodes    = 12{{efn|There are six scheduled Blu-ray volumes, with each volume containing two episodes.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://azurlane-anime.jp/goods/bd_vol6.html|script-title=ja:TVアニメーション『アズールレーン』Vol.6 Blu-ray 初回生産限定版|title=TV Animation "Azur Lane" Vol. 6 Blu-ray Shokai Seisan Genteiban|website=azurlane-anime.jp|access-date=October 6, 2019}}</ref>}}<!-- This parameter should only be incremented when new episodes air or when a [[RetroWikipedia:Identifying reliable sources|reliable source]] can confirm a specific number of episodes. -->
| episode_list= #Anime
}}
{{Infobox animanga/Audio
| title       =
| director    =
| producer    =
| writer      = Tsukasa
| music       =
| studio      =
| station     =
| first       =
| last        =
| episodes    =
| episode_list=
}}
{{Infobox animanga/Other
| title       = Print media
| content     =
;Manga
* ''[[Azur Lane: Slow Ahead!]]''
* ''[[#Azur Lane Comic Anthology|Azur Lane Comic Anthology]]''
* ''[[Azur Lane Queen's Orders]]''
* ''[[#Azur Lane Comic à la Carte|Azur Lane Comic à la Carte]]''

;Light novel
* ''[[#Starting My Life as a Commander with Laffey|Starting My Life as a Commander with Laffey]]''
* ''[[#Episode of Belfast|Episode of Belfast]]''
* ''[[#Ayanami, Happily Married|Ayanami, Happily Married]]''
}}
{{collapsed infobox section end}}

{{Infobox animanga/Footer}}
{{Infobox Chinese
| collapse = yes
| t = 碧藍航線
| s = 碧蓝航线
| p = Bìlán Hángxiàn
| bpmf = ㄅㄧˋ ㄌㄢˊ ㄏㄤˊ ㄒㄧㄢˋ
| w = Pi<sup>4</sup>-lan<sup>2</sup> Hang<sup>2</sup>-hsien<sup>4</sup>
| hangul = 벽람항로
| hanja = 碧藍航路
| rr = Byeongnam Hangno
| mr = Pyŏngnam Hangno
| katakana = アズールレーン
| romaji = Azūru Rēn
| nihon = Azûru Rên
}}
'''''Azur Lane''''' ({{zh|s=碧蓝航线|t=碧藍航線|p=Bìlán Hángxiàn|l=Deep Blue [[Course (navigation)|Course]]|scase=yes}}) is a [[side-scrolling video game|side-scrolling]] [[shoot 'em up]] video game created by Chinese developers Shanghai Manjuu and Xiamen Yongshi, released in 2017 for the [[iOS]] and [[Android (operating system)|Android]] operating systems. Set in an [[alternate timeline]] of [[World War II]], players engage in side-scrolling shooter gameplay, using female [[moe anthropomorphism|moe anthropomorphic]] characters based on [[warships]] from the war's major participants. Other gameplay elements, like customizing a dorm and in-game characters, are also present.

First released in China in May and in Japan in September 2017, ''Azur Lane'' was successful at launch, especially in Japan where the player count reached five million within four months after its release. Players have voted the game among the top five on [[Google Play]]'s Best Game of 2017 list for the region. Critics have attributed the game's popularity to its original and well-designed gameplay system. An English version started open beta in August 2018 and was formally released in May 2019. Later, in December 2019, the English version was expanded to Latin American region. PWB Play simultaneously released it to [[Hong Kong]], [[Macau]], and [[Taiwan]] in October 2019.

The game has been adapted into several manga and novelizations. ''Azur Lane Crosswave'', a [[3D computer graphics|3D]] adaptation for [[PlayStation 4]], was published by [[Compile Heart]] in August 2019 with mixed reception. ''Crosswave''{{'s}} English localization was released in February 2020 for PlayStation 4 and PC. A [[Nintendo Switch]] port of the game was released in Japan in September 2020, and in February 2021 in North America and in February 2021 in Europe.

An [[anime]] television series adaptation by [[Bibury Animation Studios]] was announced in 2018, and was aired from October 2019 to March 2020. [[Funimation]] licensed this series for a SimulDub while [[Beta Film]] licensed this series for Latin America.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.crunchyroll.com/anime-news/2018/09/15-1/ship-girl-smart-phone-game-azur-lane-sets-sail-as-a-tv-anime|title=Ship Girl Smart Phone Game Azur Lane Sets Sail as a TV Anime|access-date=April 1, 2019|language=en-GB}}</ref> An anime television series adaptation of the ''[[Azur Lane: Slow Ahead!]]'' manga by studios Candy Box and [[Yostar Pictures]] aired from January to March 2021; a second season has been announced. A two-episode [[original video animation]] adaptation of the ''[[Azur Lane Queen's Orders]]'' manga was released in July 2023.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-04-20 |title=Azur Lane Queen's Orders OAV: Release Date, Plot And More - OpenMediaHub |url=https://openmediahub.com/azur-lane-queens-orders-oav-release-date/ |access-date=2023-08-15 |language=en-US |archive-date=August 15, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230815061623/https://openmediahub.com/azur-lane-queens-orders-oav-release-date/ |url-status=dead }}</ref>

==Gameplay==
[[File:Azur Lane main screen.png|thumb|left|upright=1.3|Main interface, with the character ''[[HMS Hardy (H87)|Hardy]]''. Players may select a character to appear on main interface as a "secretary".]]
''Azur Lane'' is a [[Side-scrolling video game|side-scrolling]] [[shoot 'em up]], [[simulation game|simulation]] and [[role-playing video game]]. Players collect characters that are [[moe anthropomorphism|moe anthropomorphic]] interpretations of [[World War II]] warships ("[[wikt:shipgirl|shipgirls]]"), mainly from the [[United States Navy]], [[Royal Navy]], [[Imperial Japanese Navy]] and [[Kriegsmarine]], with other ships from the [[French Navy]] (both [[Vichy France|Vichy]] and [[Free France]] flavors), [[Republic of China Navy]], [[People's Liberation Army Navy]], [[Regia Marina]], [[Soviet Navy]], [[Imperial Russian Navy]], and [[Imperial German Navy]] being added later; additionally, ships from the [[Golden Age of Piracy]] were added in as a faction named Tempesta. Players organize them into fleets of six and confront [[Artificial intelligence|AI]]-controlled enemies or other players' fleets.<ref name="rpgsarticle">{{Cite web|url=https://www.rpgsite.net/feature/6593-how-azur-lane-is-able-to-rival-kantai-collection-s-popularity-in-japan|title=How Azur Lane is able to rival Kantai Collection's popularity in Japan {{!}} RPG Site|last=Stenbuck|first=Kite|website=RPG Site|access-date=June 18, 2018}}</ref> These ships can gain experience points (EXP) from various methods (such as from battles, completing commissions, or placing these ships into [[#Dormitory|Dormitories]]), and they require a certain amount of EXP to gain a stronger level. They have a certain maximum level limit on how far players can level up their ships, which can be increased via Limit Break. Most characters have their own set of upgradable abilities that can be activated in battle.

Personifications of American destroyer [[USS Laffey (DD-459)|USS ''Laffey'' (DD-459)]], British destroyer [[HMS Javelin|HMS ''Javelin'']] and German destroyer [[German destroyer Z23|''Z23'']] (Chinese, English release) or Japanese destroyer [[Japanese destroyer Ayanami (1929)|''Ayanami'']] (Japanese, Korean release) are available for players to select as a starter ship. They are referred to as [[protagonist]]s in-game.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.rpgsite.net/feature/7596-azur-lane-guide-which-starter-ship-should-you-choose|title=Azur Lane Guide - Which starter ship should you choose?|last=Stenbuck|first=Kite|website=RPG Site|access-date=October 1, 2018}}</ref> {{as of|2024|October}}, more than 600 characters have been introduced to the game, representing ships from nine countries that participated in the war.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://azurlane.koumakan.jp/List_of_Ships|title=List of Ships|work=Azur Lane Wiki|access-date=October 17, 2018|language=en-GB|archive-date=November 11, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201111222604/https://azurlane.koumakan.jp/List_of_Ships|url-status=dead}}</ref> The game is also notable for including preserved museum ships as its characters such as Japanese [[Japanese battleship Mikasa|''Mikasa'']] and Russian [[Russian cruiser Aurora|''Aurora'']].

A endgame content Operation Siren was announced on December 14, 2020, for a late December release.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.siliconera.com/azur-lane-operation-siren-official-teaser-published/ |title=Azur Lane Operation Siren Official Teaser Released  |last= Stenbuck|first=Kite|website=[[Siliconera]] |date= December 14, 2020 |access-date= October 9, 2024}}</ref>

===Battle===
[[File:Azur Lane Formation screen.png|left|thumb|Formation interface of ''Azur Lane'']]
When preparing for the game's main mode, players can organize two fleets (as the game progresses, they will unlock up to a maximum of 6 fleets) consisting of a front row and a back row, with three slots available in each row. [[Destroyer]]s, [[light cruiser]]s, and [[heavy cruiser]]s can be allotted to the front row, while the back row is reserved for [[battleship]]s, [[aircraft cruiser]]s, [[monitor (warship)|monitor]]s, [[repair ship]]s, [[battlecruiser]]s and [[aircraft carrier]]s; the positions of certain [[sailing frigate]]s are determined between either row. Different combinations of ships are required to achieve victory in different battle situations. Players may then select and enter a [[level (video gaming)|map]].<ref name="rpgsarticle" />

On entering a map, the player's fleet is placed on a grid-like map similar to that in the game [[Battleship (game)|Battleship]]. The map contains nodes, which are either combat nodes which are enemy fleets, some immobile and others that pursue the player, or non-combat nodes which provides ammunition or mystery nodes which can provide supplies such as repair kits, upgrade materials or can spawn a special combat node called a Treasure Fleet. Players must navigate optimally and assemble their fleets tactically, to clear obstructing enemies and, using minimal movements, reach the map's [[boss (video gaming)|boss]]. When the player moves their fleet across the map, they can be ambushed in [[random encounter]]s from which they may take damage, or they can be forced to engage the enemy, using fuel and ammo. Fuel is one of the two in-game resources. Ammo points are assigned to player fleets at each map, with one ammo point deducted at each battle. Fleets that run out of ammo can still fight but may only deal half damage.<ref name="rpgsarticle" />

[[File:Azur Lane battle screen.png|thumb|left|upright=1.3|Battle interface of ''Azur Lane'']]
When battling an enemy, players can use a virtual [[joystick]] to control the front row, which can automatically fire shells at targets and manually launch torpedoes. While stationary, the back row can send [[Barrage (artillery)|shell barrages]] and the player can manually call in airstrikes. These will activate a bullet-clearing effect, removing all projectiles and torpedoes on screen. Players have an auto mode option to give up this control to the game's AI. Characters' [[health (gaming)|health]] is fully replenished when completing or exiting a map. Morale points are deducted for each fleet character in a battle. Should a character fall in battle, they cannot join in further action on the map and a larger number of morale points are deducted for the fallen character at the end of the battle. Sustained low morale for a character decreases their stats and affection points. Low affection points lead the character to greet the player with vocals reflecting their disappointment.<ref name="rpgsarticle" />

The game features a [[player versus player]] mode. The player may prepare a defence fleet and organize an offence fleet to challenge opposing players' defence fleets. In this mode, battles are controlled entirely by AI, and the bullet-clearing effect of airstrikes is disabled. Tokens can be gained and the player's ranking can rise through victory in this mode. Players receive no penalty if they lose a challenge or their defence fleet is defeated by other players. Exclusive characters and other items can be obtained using tokens (which is called Merits). The ranking is refreshed every 15 days.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://azurlane.koumakan.jp/Exercise|title=Exercise|work=Azur Lane Wiki|access-date=October 28, 2018|language=en-GB|archive-date=October 31, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201031165502/https://azurlane.koumakan.jp/Exercise|url-status=dead}}</ref> Additional mechanics were introduced after the game's release. [[Submarine warfare|Submarine]] and [[anti-submarine warfare]] systems were introduced in May 2018. This included anti-submarine campaign maps, and characters based on German [[U-boat]]s, and American and Japanese submarines.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.inside-games.jp/article/2018/05/28/114983.html|title=『アズールレーン』5月31日より開催の重桜イベント情報や、新たな艦種「潜水艦」が公開！アズレンTVまとめ {{!}} インサイド|work=インサイド|access-date=June 22, 2018|language=ja}}</ref> A [[ship's cat]] system was introduced in September 2018. Various cat breeds can be obtained at a [[cattery]]. They can be trained to provide [[buff (gaming)|buffs]] when brought along with fleets to battle.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.inside-games.jp/article/2018/09/21/117555.html|title=『アズールレーン』新システム「オフニャ」の詳細が公開―「スキル」や「アビリティ」で艦隊を強化！ {{!}} インサイド|work=インサイド|access-date=September 21, 2018|language=ja}}</ref>

===Dormitory===
The game sports a "Dormitory" feature. Characters in their [[chibi (slang)|chibi forms]] may be put in the furnished Dormitory where they can walk around and sit, sleep, or bathe.<ref name=rpgsarticle/> Characters may passively gain experience points and recover morale when they are given food by players. Players can purchase food using fuel or [[microtransaction|in-game currency]]. Players can also purchase variously themed, and occasionally time-limited, furniture sets and decorations using "furniture coins" obtained by sending characters through special quests. Furniture and decorations raise the rate experience is gained. They can be arranged freely. Players may increase Dormitory character capacity, unlock a second floor which recovers morale, and buy special interactive furniture using the in-game currency.  As well, monuments can be awarded by clearing event stages. Players may inspect other players' Dormitories.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://criticalindex.net/first-impressions-an-initial-look-at-azur-lane-31b7d2a443e|title=First Impressions: An Initial Look at Azur Lane|last=Ana|first=Ren|date=December 27, 2017|website=Critical Index|access-date=June 17, 2018}}</ref>

===Oath===
When a character's affection (which act as another form of levelling in game) points are raised to 100 through battle, secretary, or Dormitory, players may choose to give a "promise ring" to this character. A "promise ring" can be obtained through quests once. Additional rings can be purchased using in-game currency in the items shop. The developers also give out these rings for free during special occasions. Players may also give customized names to these characters but may only do so every 30 days for each character.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.mmorpg.news/2018/09/azur-lane-oath-marriage-and-first-event.html|title=Azur Lane - Oath (Marriage) and First Event on Global|website=www.mmorpg.news|date=September 11, 2018 |access-date=October 17, 2018}}</ref> Furthermore, a few of the most popular characters will also gain unique wedding dress costumes for the wedding. They will also gain additional stat bonuses after being given the promise ring.<ref name="Siliconera_20171009" />

==Synopsis==
The start of the game features an anthropomorphic recreation of the [[Battle of the Denmark Strait]], where the personification of famed British battlecruiser [[HMS Hood|HMS ''Hood'']] is sunk by characters representing the German forces. The game features the eponymous military alliance, the "Azur Lane", comprising the nations of Eagle Union ([[United States]]), Royal Navy ([[United Kingdom]]), Sakura Empire ([[Empire of Japan]]), Iron Blood ([[Nazi Germany]]), Dragon Empery ([[Republic of China (1912–1949)|Republic of China]]), Northern Parliament ([[Soviet Union]]), Iris Orthodoxy ([[French Third Republic|France]]), and Sardegna Empire ([[Kingdom of Italy]]).<ref name="rpgsarticle" /> The alliance is split in two because of an [[Extraterrestrials in fiction|alien intervention]], with the Iron Blood, Sakura Empire, and Sardegna Empire forming the opposing "Crimson [[Axis powers|Axis]]" faction. Using technology provided by the aliens called "Sirens", the Crimson Axis invades their former allies. As a result, many of Azur Lane's territories came under occupation of the Crimson Axis, with the Iris Orthodoxy split into Iris Libre ([[Free France]]) and Vichya Dominion ([[Vichy France]]). The rest of the game's main plot partially follows the United States naval engagements in the [[Pacific War]]. Chapters represent several decisive battles of the war including the [[Battle of Midway]], the [[Naval Battle of Guadalcanal]], and the [[Mariana and Palau Islands campaign]].

==Development==
''Azur Lane''{{'}}s producer, Yuwan,{{efn|name=yuwan|{{lang-zh|s=鱼丸|hp=Yúwán|labels=no}}, also known as {{lang-zh|s=N.ec 鱼丸|labels=no}}}} a well-known uploader to the Chinese video sharing website [[Bilibili]], began developing the game with five of his college friends, with the initial notion of "creating a [[doujin]] game, if a commercial one is not possible".<ref name="Febri_47_41">{{Cite journal|date=February 22, 2018|title=[巻頭特集]アズールレーン|url=https://bookwalker.jp/de34770dcf-7a52-4645-a907-dc7c50d372c3/|journal=Febri|volume=47|pages=41}}</ref> Seeing many similar games created in [[Greater China]] after ''[[Kantai Collection]]''{{'}}s success, the developers aimed to create "something different from previous works of ship moe anthropomorphism". As such, they intentionally avoided using a [[turn-based strategy]] game mechanic like that used by ''Kantai Collection'' and most of its followers. They also shifted the focus on Japanese ships to those from other countries involved in World War II.<ref name="Febri_47_41" />

One particular difficulty was incorporating shoot 'em up elements, as there were no existing works to reference. An early version of the game featured a combat system of a five-character fleet in a single or double [[column (formation)|column]] [[line of battle]]. ''[[World of Warships]]'', a World War II naval warfare simulation game popular in China, influenced some of the gameplay design.<ref name="Febri_47_41" />

The developers sought to further differentiate the game by featuring characters based on preserved [[museum ship]]s from earlier times, such as the [[pre-dreadnought battleship]] [[Japanese battleship Mikasa|''Mikasa'']] of [[World War I]], which was served as a [[flagship]] during the [[Russo-Japanese War|Russo-Japanese war]], and the [[Soviet Navy|Russian]] [[protected cruiser]] [[Russian cruiser Aurora|''Aurora'']], the ship famed for its [[October Revolution]] involvement. Keeping [[game balance]] and rarity with these characters was difficult, however, the developers were intent on featuring museum ships, and intend to introduce more characters like this in the future.<ref name="Febri_47_42">{{Cite journal|date=February 22, 2018|title=[巻頭特集]アズールレーン|url=https://bookwalker.jp/de34770dcf-7a52-4645-a907-dc7c50d372c3/|journal=Febri|volume=47|pages=42}}</ref> A series of characters based on proposed or unfinished World War II warships, including [[Neptune-class cruiser|''Neptune'']], [[Saint-Louis-class cruiser|''Saint-Louis'']] and [[Ibuki-class cruiser|''Ibuki'']], were introduced as part of a collaboration with [[Wargaming (company)|Wargaming]], publisher of ''World of Warships''.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://shouji.newyx.net/gl/524417.html|title=碧蓝航线WOWS联动活动内容_碧蓝航线战舰世界联动活动攻略_牛游戏网|website=shouji.newyx.net|access-date=October 17, 2018|language=zh-hans}}</ref>

Many young [[Voice acting in Japan|Japanese voice actors]] lent their talents to the game. The decision to employ an all-Japanese voice cast with a focus on younger actors was the result of a lack of professional voice actors in China, as well as the team's intention to give younger Japanese actors opportunities to perform.<ref name="Febri_47_41" /> The game's notable voice actors include [[Yui Ishikawa]],<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.crunchyroll.com/anime-news/2017/12/15-1/azur-lane-ship-girl-enterprise-boldly-goes-forward-in-holiday-art|title="Azur Lane" Ship Girl Enterprise Boldly Goes Forward in Holiday Art|last=Dennison|first=Kara|work=Crunchyroll|access-date=October 17, 2018|language=en}}</ref> [[Rie Takahashi]]<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://twitter.com/azurlane_staff/status/1022046573402845184|title=アズールレーン公式 on Twitter|work=Twitter|access-date=October 17, 2018|language=en}}</ref> and [[Risa Taneda]].<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://twitter.com/azurlane_staff/status/923744713135366144|title=アズールレーン公式 on Twitter|work=Twitter|access-date=October 17, 2018|language=en}}</ref>

[[Shanghai]]'s Manjuu Ltd. provided the audiovisual design and the writing for ''Azur Lane''. [[Xiamen]]'s Yongshi Ltd. ({{zh|s=厦门勇仕网络技术有限公司}}) was responsible for programming, game data design and content. The companies share [[joint authorship]] of the game and share its copyright, with a 65%/35% share of its revenue.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.youxichaguan.com/mobile/newsContent.php?id=19485|title=《碧蓝》CP勇仕申请挂牌新三板：《碧蓝》半年流水5.66亿 {{!}} 新闻 - 游戏茶馆|website=www.youxichaguan.com|language=en|access-date=October 28, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181028151523/http://www.youxichaguan.com/mobile/newsContent.php?id=19485|archive-date=October 28, 2018|url-status = dead}}</ref>

==Release==
The game first launched in China in May 2017, published by Bilibili. [[Yostar]] published the Japanese version in September that year.<ref name=rpgsarticle/> XD Global published the South Korean version in March 2018. The English-language version was announced as being in development in June 2018. Open beta began on August 16, 2018.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Stenbuck |first1=Kite |title=Azur Lane English version has been officially announced by Yostar |url=https://www.rpgsite.net/news/7282-azur-lane-english-version-has-been-officially-announced-by-yostar |website=RPG Site |access-date=June 18, 2018}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.rpgsite.net/news/7584-azur-lane-english-open-beta-test-will-be-launched-on-august-16|title=Azur Lane English open beta test will be launched on August 16 {{!}} RPG Site|last=Stenbuck|first=Kite|website=RPG Site|access-date=August 16, 2018}}</ref> On May 20, 2019, the English version was formally released along with the rollout of the 2019 UI overhaul.<ref name=twinfinite_2019-05-20>{{Cite web|url=https://twinfinite.net/2019/05/azur-lane-new-ui/|title=Azur Lane Receiving Brand New UI As Open Beta Ends|date=May 20, 2019|last=Nelva|first=Giuseppe|website=Twinfinite|language=en-US|access-date=May 24, 2019}}</ref>

Li Hengda, president of Yostar Inc., revealed that although he saw ''Azur Lane''{{'}}s potential, he did not expect the level of popularity the game experienced in Japan. Believing that around 10 people would suffice, Li later admitted his mistake in only having four full-time employees and two interns before the game's release, as they had to work from morning until midnight as the game's popularity grew until the end of 2017. Through ''Azur Lane'', Yostar established contact with distinguished Japanese enterprises and creators and was met with welcoming responses. [[Tony Taka]], known for his work on the ''[[Shining (series)|Shining]]'' series, was delighted to be invited to provide character design for [[HMS Centaur (R06)|HMS ''Centaur'' (R06)]], marking his first work in a [[mobile game]]. Jin Haganeya, writer for ''[[Demonbane]]'', agreed to write the script for the game's [[#Anime|anime adaptation]].<ref name="LiHengdaInterview">{{Cite news|url=https://game-maniax.com/wiki/azurlane/archives/detail/19117|title=１周年を迎えた『アズールレーン』の運営会社「Yostar」社長、李衡達氏にインタビュー！ {{!}} ゲーム★マニアックス {{!}} ANIMAX|work=ゲーム★マニアックス {{!}} ANIMAX|access-date=September 20, 2018|language=ja-JP|archive-date=September 20, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180920234726/https://game-maniax.com/wiki/azurlane/archives/detail/19117|url-status=dead}}</ref>

In March 2018, Korean players accused Nardack, a guest illustrator in their regional server, of being [[radical feminist]] and alleged that she is "[[Megalia]]". To this end, the Korean publisher XD Global asked her to publicly announce on her social media that she doesn't associate with the antisocial group, and that she doesn't support feminism. She reportedly declined, and the publisher subsequently removed her artwork in the game. Nardack later criticized and described the publisher's demand as forceful action.<ref>{{cite news|url= https://www.segye.com/newsView/20180430000836 | date= April 30, 2018 | title = "페미니즘 지지 않는다"는 트윗 요청했지만, 사상 검증은 아니다? | trans-title= The company demanded the artist to tweet "I do not support feminism," yet doesn't consider it a censorship? |language=ko | work = [[Segye Ilbo]] | access-date=January 8, 2024 }}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/interest/2018-05-02/updated-artist-responds-to-azur-lane-game-controversy-linking-feminism-to-antisocial-groups/.131029|title=UPDATED: Artist Responds to Azur Lane Game Controversy Linking Feminism to 'Antisocial Groups'|work=Anime News Network|access-date=September 20, 2018|language=en}}</ref>

==Promotion==
A special program featuring voice actress [[Yui Ishikawa]] visiting the office of one of developers, Manjuu Ltd., in Shanghai was aired on the Japanese [[streaming television]] platform [[AbemaTV]] in May 2018.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://abema.tv/channels/ultra-games/slots/Ee7EBLtYZ6z55H|title=アズレンTV～石川由依がめぐる アズレン開発現場 in 上海～|website=[[AbemaTV]]|language=ja|access-date=October 13, 2018}}</ref> However, misuse during the program of the trademarked term {{nihongo|"''kanmusu''"|艦娘}} to refer to the game's personified warship characters led to [[Yostar]] being publicly warned by [[DMM.com]], publisher of ''[[Kantai Collection]]''. Yostar issued an apology, and called on players of ''Azur Lane'' to provide alternative terms for the game's personified warship characters.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://news.qoo-app.com/en/post/29934/%5BQoo+Otaku%5D+KanColle+tells+Azur+Lane:+Please+change+name|title=[Qoo Otaku] KanColle tells Azur Lane: Please change name|work=QooApp: Anime Games Platform|access-date=September 15, 2018|language=en}}</ref> More than a thousand submissions were received.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://twitter.com/azurlane_staff/status/1030329830015873024|title=アズールレーン公式 on Twitter|work=Twitter|access-date=September 15, 2018|language=en}}</ref> In September 2018, Yostar announced the new term would be "Kinetics Artifactual Navy-Self-regulative En-lore Node", abbreviated as "KAN-SEN" and is the [[backronym]] of the Japanese word {{nihongo|"''kansen''"|艦船}}.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://gamebiz.jp/?p=220154|title=Yostar、『アズールレーン』のキャラクターの総称を「艦船（KAN-SEN）」に決定！ {{!}} Social Game Info|website=Social Game Info|language=ja|access-date=September 15, 2018}}</ref>

===Collaborations===
====In-game====
A January 2018 collaboration event with [[Compile Heart]] introduced the protagonists of the ''[[Hyperdimension Neptunia]]'' series to ''Azur Lane''. Players may obtain ''Neptunia''{{'s}} protagonists with naval elements, as well as their "goddess forms" as separate characters.<ref name="qooapp20171220">{{Cite web|url=https://en-news.qoo-app.com/23322/qoo-news-azur-lane-hyperdimension-neptune/|title=Azur Lane's latest crossover is bishojo RPG Hyperdimension Neptunia|date=December 20, 2017|website=QooApp}}</ref>

In April 2018, [[Yostar]] and [[Wargaming (company)|Wargaming]] Japan announced a collaboration between the game and ''[[World of Warships]]''. ''Azur Lane'' players may obtain characters based on ships from ''World of Warships'' through a new interface called "Development Dock", while ''World of Warships'' players may purchase ''Azur Lane'' characters as voiced captains, and skins for ships based on design elements of ''Azur Lane''{{'s}} namesake characters.<ref name="WoWSAsia20180402">{{cite web|url=https://worldofwarships.asia/en/news/common/azurelane_collaboration_0402/|title=World of Warships x Azur Lane Collaboration: Coming Soon!|author=<!--Not stated-->|date=April 2, 2018|website=WoWS Asia|publisher=Wargaming|access-date=April 2, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180402225648/https://worldofwarships.asia/en/news/common/azurelane_collaboration_0402/|archive-date=April 2, 2018|url-status = dead}}</ref> In April 2019, the ''WoWS'' collaboration was further extended by season 2, introducing new characters into both games.<ref>{{cite web |author1=YUZORAH |title=World of Warships X Azur Lane Collaboration|url=https://thedailybounce.net/world-of-warships/world-of-warships-x-azur-lane-collaboration-may-contain-weebery/ |website=thedailybounce.net |access-date=April 22, 2019 |date=April 6, 2019}}</ref> In August 2020, the collaboration was once again extended by a 3rd season, introducing a wave of new ships, skins and captains in both games.<ref>{{cite web|title=Azur Lane: Third Wave|url=https://worldofwarships.eu/en/news/sales-and-events/azur-lane-third-wave/|website=worldofwarships.eu|access-date=October 8, 2020}}</ref>

A collaboration with [[Sunrise (company)|Sunrise]] in May 2018 featured a crossover plotline with the anime ''[[Armored Trooper VOTOMS]]''. The Marshydog mecha from the show was added to ''Azur Lane'' as a furniture item.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.crunchyroll.com/anime-news/2018/05/24/azur-lane-x-votoms-collab-teased|title=Azur Lane x VOTOMS Collab Teased|last1=Dennison|first1=Kara|date=May 24, 2018|website=Crunchyroll|access-date=June 18, 2018|archive-date=June 18, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180618052509/http://www.crunchyroll.com/anime-news/2018/05/24/azur-lane-x-votoms-collab-teased|url-status=dead}}</ref> A collaboration event with [[Aquaplus]] in November 2018 made characters from the visual novel ''[[Utawarerumono]]'' obtainable in ''Azur Lane''.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.rpgsite.net/news/7754-azur-lane-announces-a-collaboration-with-utawarerumono-which-will-be-held-in-japan-in-november-2018|title=Azur Lane announces a collaboration with Utawarerumono, which will be held in Japan in November 2018 {{!}} RPG Site|last=Stenbuck|first=Kite|website=www.rpgsite.net|access-date=September 15, 2018}}</ref>

An April 2019 collaboration with [[Kizuna AI]] introduced the [[virtual YouTuber]] as 4 different in-game characters.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Sato |title=Kizuna AI X Azur Lane Collaboration Gets A New Trailer Featuring The Super Virtual YouTuber |url=https://www.siliconera.com/2019/04/19/kizuna-ai-x-azur-lane-collaboration-gets-a-new-trailer-featuring-the-super-virtual-youtuber/ |website=siliconera |access-date=April 22, 2019 |date=April 19, 2019}}</ref> Between November 27 and December 10, 2019, seven [[Hololive Production|Hololive]] members (Murasaki Shion, Nakiri Ayame, Ookami Mio, [[Natsuiro Matsuri]], [[Minato Aqua]], Shirakami Fubuki and [[Tokino Sora]]) became playable characters as part of another collaboration.

The crossover event with ''Dead or Alive Xtreme Venus Vacation'' called "Vacation Lane" took place between November 26 and December 9, 2020. It featured an original story, new ships, skins, and furniture sets. The characters featured were Marie Rose, Honoka, [[Kasumi (Dead or Alive)|Kasumi]], Misaki, Nyotengu, Nagisa, and Monica.<ref>{{cite press release |author=<!--Not stated--> |title=Beach Volleyball Time! Azur Lane x DEAD OR ALIVE Xtreme Venus Vacation Collaboration Goes Live |url=https://www.gamespress.com/Beach-Volleyball-Time-Azur-Lane-x-DEAD-OR-ALIVE-Xtreme-Venus-Vacation- |location=Shanghai, China |publisher=Yostar Games |agency=Games Press |date=2020-11-26 |access-date=2023-04-24}}</ref> On April 24, 2023, it was announced that this crossover event would have a re-run from April 27 to May 11. All previously featured characters would return with the inclusion of Luna and Tamaki.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.siliconera.com/doaxvv-event-will-re-run-in-azur-lane/ |title=DOAXVV Event Will Re-run in Azur Lane |last=Liu |first=Stephanie |date=2023-04-24 |website=[[Siliconera]] |publisher= |access-date=2023-04-24 }}</ref>

The collaboration event of anime television series ''[[SSSS.Gridman]]'' and ''[[SSSS.Dynazenon]]'' that ran from November 25 to December 8, 2021, saw the introductions of 7 limited-time obtainable characters; Rikka Takarada, Akane Shinjō, Yume Minami, Hass, Namiko, Mujina and Chise Asukagawa.<ref>{{cite web|first=Kite |last=Stenbuck |url=https://www.siliconera.com/ssss-gridman-and-dynazenon-heroines-will-appear-in-azur-lane/ |title=SSSS.Gridman and Dynazenon Heroines Will Appear in Azur Lane |publisher=Siliconera |date=2021-11-20 |access-date=2022-04-15 |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Citation|title=★Azur Lane {{!}} SSSS.GRIDMAN / SSSS.DYNAZENON Collaboration Animation PV★|url=https://www.facebook.com/AzurLaneEN/videos/4302578126536773/|language=en|access-date=2021-11-26}}</ref> In 2023, all previously featured characters returned in a rerun event that ran from July 20 to August 2, with the introduction of Princess Hime, and The 2nd from the film ''[[Gridman Universe]]''.<ref>{{Cite web |last=L |first=Vincent|date=2023-07-21 |title=Azur Lane x SSSS.Gridman Collaboration Event Rerun Available Now |url=https://www.gamerbraves.com/azur-lane-x-ssss-gridman-collaboration-event-rerun-available-now/ |access-date=2023-08-15 |website=GamerBraves |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title="Azur Lane Unveils Rerun of World-Spanning Arclight Event, Featuring SSSS.Gridman and SSSS.Dynazenon Collaboration" - Games Press |url=https://www.gamespress.com/en-US/Azur-Lane-Unveils-Rerun-of-World-Spanning-Arclight-Event-Featuring-SSS |access-date=2023-08-15 |website=www.gamespress.com}}</ref>

Between November 2 and December 7, 2022, six new limited-time characters were introduced (Kala Ideas, Klaudia Valentz, Patricia Abelheim, Reisalin Stout, Lila Decyrus, and Serri Glaus) as part of the collaboration with two video games from the [[Atelier (video game series)|Atelier]] franchise developed by [[Gust Corporation]]; ''[[Atelier Ryza 2: Lost Legends & the Secret Fairy]]'' and ''[[Atelier Ryza 3: Alchemist of the End & the Secret Key]]''.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2022-09-11 |title= Azur Lane x Atelier Ryza 2 Crossover Event Announced  |url= https://www.siliconera.com/azur-lane-x-atelier-ryza-2-crossover-event-announced/ |access-date=2024-03-30 |website= [[Siliconera]] |language=en-US |last= Stenbuck |first= Kite }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Nelva |first=Gieuseppe |date=2022-11-18 |title=Azur Lane X Atelier Ryza 3 & 2 Crossover Revealed as Ryza & C Become Shipgirls Next Week |url=https://twinfinite.net/2022/11/azur-lane-atelier-ryza-collaboration/ |access-date=2022-12-18 |website=Twinfinite |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=qooapp |date=2022-11-21 |title=Azur Lane x Atelier Ryza Collab Begins on November 24 - QooApp News |url=https://news.qoo-app.com/en/post/130408/azur-lane-atelier-ryza-collab-nov24 |access-date=2022-12-18 |language=en-US}}</ref>

====Miscellaneous====
[[Yostar]] has held illustration contests with Japanese art community [[Pixiv]] to promote the game. Winners in the contest held in December 2017 were rewarded with cash and their designs featured on the game's loading screens.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.pixiv.net/contest/azurlane|title=アズールレーンイラストコンテスト|website=pixiv|language=ja|access-date=October 15, 2018}}</ref> Winning designs from a wedding dress illustration contest in July 2018 were also planned to be implemented in the game.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.pixiv.net/contest/azurlane-wedding|title=アズールレーン花嫁「ケッコン」イラストコンテスト|website=pixiv|language=ja|access-date=August 18, 2018}}</ref>

Yostar licensed the Japanese company GRSPER to create [[virtual reality]] wedding ceremonies with the game's characters in August 2018.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://twitter.com/NijigenVR/status/1030365247545044994|title=ケッコンVR@アズールレーン on Twitter|work=Twitter|access-date=August 18, 2018|language=en}}</ref> The crowdfunding project was cancelled in October 2018 because GRSPER did not meet its funding goal and was having communication difficulties with voice actors and their agencies.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2018-10-11/azur-lane-x-wedding-vr-crowdfunding-project-fails-to-meet-goal/.137992|title=Azur Lane x Wedding VR Crowdfunding Project Fails to Meet Goal|work=Anime News Network|access-date=October 11, 2018|language=en}}</ref>

In 2022, the game collaborated with [[Yamaha Motor Company|Yamaha]] and its employee-run team, Iwata Racing Family (IRF), to race a [[YZF-R1]] sports motorcycle that appears in-game as [[USS Essex (CV-9)|Essex]]'s motorcycle at the [[Suzuka 8 Hours]].<ref>{{Cite web|author=Azur Lane|publisher=[[Yostar]]|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ld0Eh6WPdRI|title=【アズレン×ヤマハ コラボ企画】『アズジャーナル 完全密着！鈴鹿8耐挑戦の記録』|website=YouTube|language=ja|trans-title=(Azur Lane x Yamaha Collaboration Project) Azur Journal Complete Adhesion! Record of the Suzuka 8 Hours Challenge|access-date=19 December 2022|date=29 September 2022}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=2022 Suzuka 8 Hours Endurance Road Race |url=https://global.yamaha-motor.com/zh-CN/showroom/event/2022-suzuka-8h/ |publisher=Yamaha Motor Company |access-date=19 December 2022}}</ref>

===Live events===
In 2023, the game collaborated with the CarrierCon [[fan convention]] for anime, video game, comic and cosplay fans aboard the [[USS Hornet (CV-12)|USS ''Hornet'' (CV-12)]], which is personified in-game as Hornet II to distinguish her from the original Hornet (CV-8) and is currently the [[USS Hornet Museum|USS ''Hornet'' Museum]] ship in Alameda, [[Oakland, California]].<ref>{{cite web |author=CarrierCon |title=CarrierCon 2023 ''Azur Lane'' Collaboration Announcement |url=https://www.instagram.com/p/CoxQNXpLxUc/ |website=Instagram |access-date=2 August 2023 |date=17 February 2023}}</ref> Later that year, the same ship was chosen to host the game's live event celebrating the 5th anniversary of its English/worldwide release.<ref>{{Cite tweet |user=CarrierConBA |author=CarrierCon |number=1682231777652535296 |title=Calling all Commanders and Ship Girls! We are proud to announce that we are hosting the Azur Lane 5th Anniversary celebration event! Come celebrate with our friends @AzurLane_EN @HornetChanVT!! August 13th, 2023 – 707 W Hornet Ave, Alameda, CA 94501 #AzurLane5thAnniv|retweet=''Azur Lane'' |date=20 July 2023 |access-date=2 August 2023}}</ref>

==Other media==
<!-- Deleted image removed: [[File:Manga 4-koma Palette Cover Azur Lane Bisoku Zenshin!.png|thumb|right|Cover art of ''Manga 4-koma Palette'' vol. 132 featuring ''Very Slow Advance!'', with protagonists [[German destroyer Z23|''Z23'']] (upper) and [[HMS Javelin|''Javelin'']] (lower)]] -->
{{see also|Azur Lane: Slow Ahead!|Azur Lane Queen's Orders}}

===Print media===
''Azur Lane'' was adapted into several manga and novels. {{anchor|Azur Lane Comic Anthology}}The ''Azur Lane Comic Anthology'', a comic anthology series currently up to four volumes, is being published by [[Ichijinsha]] and sold on [[Amazon Japan]].<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.inside-games.jp/article/2018/01/31/112483.html|title=『アズールレーン』初のコミックアンソロジーが発売―表紙には「エンタープライズ」と「三笠」が！ {{!}} インサイド|work=インサイド|access-date=June 22, 2018|language=ja}}</ref> {{anchor|Azur Lane Comic à la Carte}} ''Azur Lane Comic à la Carte'', another comic anthology, was published in October 2018.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://over-lap.co.jp/Form/Product/ProductDetail.aspx?pid=9784865544091|title=アズールレーン コミックアラカルト|website=OVERLAP|language=ja|access-date=October 26, 2018}}</ref>

{{anchor|Starting My Life as a Commander with Laffey}}[[Kodansha]] published a spin-off [[light novel]] featuring the character [[USS Laffey (DD-459)|''Laffey'']] as protagonist, titled ''Starting My Life as a Commander with Laffey'',{{efn|{{langx|ja|ラフィーと始める指揮官生活|Laffey to Hajimeru Shikikan Seikatsu|italic=yes|label=none}}}} in June 2018.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://lanove.kodansha.co.jp/official/azurlane_novel/book/|title=アズールレーン ラフィーと始める指揮官生活｜講談社ラノベ文庫|work=ラノベ文庫｜講談社|access-date=June 22, 2018|language=ja}}</ref> {{anchor|Episode of Belfast}}[[Shueisha]] published another [[novelization]], ''Episode of Belfast'', featuring the character based on [[HMS Belfast (C35)|HMS ''Belfast'']], in June 2018.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://dash.shueisha.co.jp/bookDetail/index/978-4-08-631252-3|title=アズールレーン Episode of Belfast｜ダッシュエックス文庫|website=dash.shueisha.co.jp|language=ja|access-date=August 17, 2018|archive-date=November 11, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201111193449/http://dash.shueisha.co.jp/bookDetail/index/978-4-08-631252-3|url-status=dead}}</ref> {{anchor|Ayanami Happily Married}}Overlap, Inc. published the third spin-off light novel featuring the character [[Japanese destroyer Ayanami (1929)|''Ayanami'']] as protagonist, titled ''Ayanami, Happily Married'',{{efn|{{langx|ja|アズールレーン　～綾波、ケッコンするです～|Azur Lane: Ayanami, Kekkon-suru desu|italic=yes|label=none}}}} in December 2018.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://over-lap.co.jp/Form/Product/ProductDetail.aspx?pid=9784865544022|title=アズールレーン ～綾波、ケッコンするです～|website=OVERLAP|language=ja|access-date=December 24, 2018}}</ref>

{{anchor|Smile Dish!}}In addition, a food-centric spin-off, ''Smile Dish!''{{efn|{{langx|ja|アズールレーン スマイルディッシュ!|italic=yes|label=none}}}} by Hirose Madoka, features the characters based on British [[C and D-class destroyer|''C''–class destroyers]] [[HMS Cygnet (H83)|HMS ''Cygnet'']], [[HMS Crescent (1931)|HMS ''Crescent'']] and [[HMS Comet (H00)|HMS ''Comet'']] sampling the food of various countries represented in-game.<ref>{{cite web |last=Madoka |first=Hirose |title=Azur Lane Smile Dish! |url=https://mangadex.org/title/47775ed0-6023-4e11-a221-a0c1ef0973dc/azur-lane-smile-dish |website=MangaDex |access-date=19 December 2023 |language=en}}</ref>

===Console adaptation===
''Azur Lane Crosswave'', a 3D [[shooter game]] for [[PlayStation 4]] was announced in September 2018. ''Crosswave'' features ''Azur Lane''{{'s}} characters battling against realistic warships and warplanes. The game follows a different story with new characters also making their debut. This console adaptation was developed by [[Felistella]] using [[Unreal Engine 4]] and was published by [[Compile Heart]] on August 29, 2019.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.siliconera.com/2019/03/29/azur-lane-cross-wave-adds-kongou-and-mikasa-to-its-roster-of-shipgirls/|title=Azur Lane: Crosswave Adds Kongou And Mikasa To Its Roster Of Shipgirls|last=Sato|date=March 29, 2019|website=Siliconera|access-date=April 2, 2019}}</ref><ref name=rpgscrosswave>{{Cite web|url=https://www.rpgsite.net/news/7731-compile-heart-reveals-azur-lane-crosswave-for-playstation-4|title=Compile Heart reveals Azur Lane Crosswave for PlayStation 4 {{!}} RPG Site|last=Stenbuck|first=Kite|website=www.rpgsite.net|access-date=September 13, 2018}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/daily-briefs/2018-10-05/azur-lane-crosswave-ps4-game-slated-for-2019/.137760|title=Azur Lane: Crosswave PS4 Game Slated for 2019|work=Anime News Network|access-date=October 9, 2018|language=en}}</ref> An English-language release was published by [[Idea Factory International]] in North America and Europe in 2020. The localization features Japanese voice-overs and sold in both digital and retail formats.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.rpgsite.net/news/8452-azur-lane-crosswave-heading-westward-in-2020-for-playstation-4|title=Azur Lane Crosswave heading westward in 2020 for PlayStation 4 {{!}} RPG Site|date=May 2, 2019|last=Vitale|first=Adam|website=www.rpgsite.net|access-date=May 24, 2019}}</ref> A [[Nintendo Switch]] port of the game was released in Japan on September 17, 2020,<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.gematsu.com/2020/05/azur-lane-crosswave-coming-to-switch-on-september-17-in-japan|title= Azur Lane: Crosswave coming to Switch on September 17 in Japan |date=May 28, 2020|website=Gematsu|language=en-US|access-date=September 23, 2020}}</ref> and on February 16, 2021, in North America and in Europe on February 19, 2021.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.gematsu.com/2020/09/azur-lane-crosswave-for-switch-coming-west-in-2021|title=Azur Lane: Crosswave for Switch coming west in 2021|date=September 22, 2020|website=Gematsu|language=en-US|access-date=September 23, 2020}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://twinfinite.net/2020/10/azur-lane-crosswave-nintendo-switch-west-release/|title=Azur Lane: Crosswave for Nintendo Switch Reveals Release Window for North America & Europe|date=October 14, 2020|website=Twinfinite|first=Giuseppe|last=Nelva|language=en-US|access-date=October 15, 2020}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://twinfinite.net/2020/11/azur-lane-crosswave-switch-release-date/|title=Azur Lane: Crosswave Western Release Dates for Nintendo Switch|date=November 17, 2020|website=Twinfinite|first=Giuseppe|last=Nelva|language=en-US|access-date=November 18, 2020}}</ref>

===Anime===
An [[anime]] television series adaptation was announced in September 2018. The anime was directed by Tensho, director of ''[[Grisaia]]'' and [[Rewrite (visual novel)|''Rewrite'']]'s anime adaptations, with writer Jin Haganeya, and [[Yasunori Nishiki]] composing the series' music. Tensho's [[Bibury Animation Studios]] animated the series, their first anime television series since the studio's inception in May 2017.<ref name=annanime20180915>{{Cite web|url=https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2018-09-15/azur-lane-warship-girl-game-gets-tv-anime-by-grisaia-director-studio/.136835|title=Azur Lane Warship Girl Game Gets TV Anime by Grisaia Director, Studio|work=Anime News Network|access-date=September 15, 2018|language=en}}</ref> [[Yostar]] head, Li Hengda, revealed that the animation project began in late 2017, when the game experienced its breakout in popularity. The choice of Haganeya to be the writer was due to the ''[[Demonbane]]'' franchise being one of Hengda's personal favorites.<ref name=LiHengdaInterview/> The series premiered on October 3, 2019, on [[Tokyo MX]], [[Sun Television|SUN]], [[Kyoto Broadcasting System|KBS]], [[Nippon BS Broadcasting|BS11]], and [[AT-X (company)|AT-X]].<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2019-07-22/azur-lane-anime-reveals-visual-october-premiere/.149229|title=Azur Lane Anime Reveals Visual, October Premiere|work=Anime News Network|access-date=July 22, 2019|language=en}}</ref> [[May'n]] performed the series' opening theme song "graphite/diamond", while [[Kano (Japanese musician)|Kano]] performed the series' ending theme song "Hikari no Michishirube".<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2019-09-14/azur-lane-anime-video-reveals-theme-song-artists-more-cast-staff-october-3-debut/.151108|title=Azur Lane Anime Reveals Visual, October Premiere|work=Anime News Network|access-date=September 14, 2019|language=en}}</ref> Episodes 11 and 12 were originally scheduled to air on December 19 and 26, 2019, but were delayed to March 13 and 20, 2020, respectively, due to production issues.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2019-12-11/azur-lane-anime-episodes-11-12-delayed-to-march/.154220|title=Azur Lane Anime's Episodes 11, 12 Delayed to March|website=Anime News Network|date=December 11, 2019|access-date=December 11, 2019}}</ref> [[Funimation]] had licensed the series for a [[Funimation#SimulDub|SimulDub]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2019-10-03/funimation-to-stream-azur-lane-no-guns-life-anime/.151850|title=Funimation to Stream Azur Lane, No Guns Life Anime|website=Anime News Network|date=October 3, 2019|access-date=October 21, 2019}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=Funimation's Fall 2019 Lineup Ramps Up the Action!|url=https://www.funimation.com/blog/2019/09/18/my-hero-academia-fall-2019-anime-sword-art-online-fire-force-funimation/|website=Funimation|date=September 18, 2019|access-date=October 21, 2019}}</ref> Following [[Sony]]'s acquisition of [[Crunchyroll]], the series was moved to Crunchyroll.<ref>{{cite web|title=UPDATE: Funimation Titles Now Available on Crunchyroll (3/29)|url=https://www.crunchyroll.com/anime-news/2022/03/01/funimation-titles-now-available-on-crunchyroll|website=[[Crunchyroll]]|date=March 1, 2022|access-date=April 5, 2022}}</ref>

{{Episode table
|background=#0057AF
|overall=
|title=
|titleR=<ref>{{cite web|url=https://azurlane-anime.jp/story/|title=Sutōrī｜Terebi Animēshon "Azūru Rēn" Kōshiki Saito|language=ja|script-title=ja:STORY｜TVアニメーション『アズールレーン』公式サイト|trans-title=Story｜TV Animation "Azur Lane" Official Website|website=azurlane-anime.jp|access-date=March 18, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200318134608/https://azurlane-anime.jp/story/|archive-date=March 18, 2020|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.funimation.com/shows/azur-lane/|title=Watch Azur Lane Sub & Dub {{!}} Action/Adventure, Fan Service Anime {{!}} Funimation|website=[[Funimation]]|access-date=May 10, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200510232603/https://www.funimation.com/shows/azur-lane/|archive-date=May 10, 2020|url-status=live}}</ref>
|director=
|directorR={{efn|name=credits|Information is taken from the ending credits of each episode.}}
|writer=
|writerR={{efn|name=credits}}
|airdate=
|airdateR=<ref>{{cite web|url=https://azurlane-anime.jp/onair/|title=On'ea｜Terebi Animēshon "Azūru Rēn" Kōshiki Saito|language=ja|script-title=ja:ON AIR｜TVアニメーション『アズールレーン』公式サイト|trans-title=On Air｜TV Animation "Azur Lane" Official Website|website=azurlane-anime.jp|access-date=December 8, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191208071820/https://azurlane-anime.jp/onair/|archive-date=December 8, 2019}}</ref>
|altdate=
|altdateT=English air date
|episodes=
{{Episode list
| EpisodeNumber       = 1
| Title               = ACTIVATION - The Girls Who Soar on the Seas
| TranslitTitle       =【Kidō】Umi o Kakeru Shōjo-tachi
| NativeTitle         =【起動】海を駆ける少女たち
| NativeTitleLangCode = ja
| DirectedBy          = Tenshō
| WrittenBy           = Jin Haganeya
| OriginalAirDate     = {{Start date|2019|10|3}}
| AltDate             = October 17, 2019
| ShortSummary        = When the Earth's oceans are attacked by a mysterious alien force called the Sirens, four major nations, [[United States|Eagle Union]], the [[British Empire|Royal Navy]], the [[Empire of Japan|Sakura Empire]] and the [[Nazi Germany|Iron Blood]] form the "Azur Lane" military alliance to combat the Sirens using shipgirls, girls fused with naval warships. Eventually, the Sirens are defeated, but a rift forms between the factions, with the Eagle Union and Royal Navy coming in opposition against the Sakura Empire and Iron Blood. Reinforcements are sent to an Azur Lane base near the Sakura Empire, where [[USS Cleveland (CL-55)|Cleveland]] and [[HMS Prince of Wales (53)|Prince of Wales]] greet the arrival of [[HMS Illustrious (87)|Illustrious]] and [[HMS Unicorn (I72)|Unicorn]]. [[Japanese destroyer Ayanami (1929)|Ayanami]] infiltrates the base to spy on its defenses, but inadvertently befriends [[HMS Javelin (F61)|Javelin]], [[USS Laffey (DD-459)|Laffey]], and Unicorn. The Sakura Empire then launches a surprise attack on the base led by [[Japanese aircraft carrier Kaga|Kaga]] and [[Japanese aircraft carrier Akagi|Akagi]]. Javelin and Ayanami reluctantly battle each other while the rest of the defenders attempt to fight off the attack. When it looks like the defenders are about to be overrun, [[USS Enterprise (CV-6)|Enterprise]] arrives and singlehandedly turns the tide of the battle, heavily damaging Kaga and forcing the Sakura Empire forces to retreat. As they withdraw, Kaga and Akagi announce that the Sakura Empire and Iron Blood have formed their own alliance, the [[Axis powers|Red Axis]], and formally declare war on Azur Lane.
| LineColor           = 0057AF
}}
{{Episode list
| EpisodeNumber       = 2
| Title               = MELEE - Pulsing Waves, Steel Wings
| TranslitTitle       =【Gekisen】Kodō no Nami, Kōtetsu no Tsubasa
| NativeTitle         =【激戦】鼓動の波、鋼鉄の翼
| NativeTitleLangCode = ja
| DirectedBy          = Yūichirō Aoki
| WrittenBy           = Jin Haganeya
| OriginalAirDate     = {{Start date|2019|10|10}}
| AltDate             = October 24, 2019
| ShortSummary        = As Azur Lane works to repair the damage to their base and treating the injured personnel, including Enterprise and [[USS San Diego (CL-53)|San Diego]], it is revealed that the cause of conflict between them and Red Axis is the Red Axis' willingness to use dangerous Siren technology for their own ends. Enterprise remains on watch, despite her repairs only being partially complete. Akagi and Kaga are also recovering from the battle when they are met by [[German cruiser Prinz Eugen|Prinz Eugen]]. Akagi sends [[Japanese aircraft carrier Zuikaku|Zuikaku]] and [[Japanese aircraft carrier Shōkaku|Shoukaku]] to ambush an Azur Lane fleet and asks Prinz Eugen to assist them. Prinz Eugen agrees, bringing [[German destroyer Z23|Z23]] and Ayanami with her. The Azur Lane fleet, consisting of Eagle Union shipgirls of [[USS Hammann (DD-412)|Hammann]], [[USS Arizona (BB-39)|Arizona]], [[USS Northampton (CA-26)|Northampton]], [[USS Helena (CL-50)|Helena]], [[USS Long Island (CVE-1)|Long Island]] and Enterprise's sister, [[USS Hornet (CV-8)|Hornet]] is attacked by the Red Axis. Enterprise mobilizes to help them despite her damage, with Cleveland, Javelin, and Laffey following her. While Enterprise battles Zuikaku and Shoukaku and Cleveland assists damaged shipgirls, Javelin and Laffey remain reluctant to fight Z23 and Ayanami. As the Azur Lane and Red Axis forces battle each other, the main Royal Navy fleet led by [[HMS Queen Elizabeth (1913)|Queen Elizabeth]] arrives. Enterprise manages to gain the upper hand on Zuikaku but her unrepaired damage causes her equipment to fail at a critical moment. However, Enterprise is saved by the timely arrival of [[HMS Belfast|a shipgirl dressed as a maid]]. 
| LineColor           = 0057AF
}}
{{Episode list
| EpisodeNumber       = 3
| Title               = ELEGANCE - Perchance, Like A Human
| TranslitTitle       =【Yūga】Aruiwa Hito no Yō ni
| NativeTitle         =【優雅】或いはヒトのように
| NativeTitleLangCode = ja
| DirectedBy          = Kento Shintani
| WrittenBy           = Jin Haganeya
| OriginalAirDate     = {{Start date|2019|10|17}}
| AltDate             = October 31, 2019
| ShortSummary        = Enterprise has a dream of a short term memory of her big sister, [[USS Yorktown|Yorktown]], who was bedridden after barely escaped death and receiving a peptalk from her, then wakes up in her dorm room and properly meets the maid who saved her in the previous battle. Recalling the events, the maid is revealed to be Belfast. She delays the Red Axis forces long enough that the main Royal Navy forces which consisting of the Royal Navy leader Queen Elizabeth and her elite officers, [[HMS Warspite (03)|Warspite]], [[HMS Hood|Hood]], and two other main core members; [[HMS Edinburgh (16)|Edinburgh]] and [[HMS Sheffield (C24)|Sheffield]]. Their arrival forces the Red Axis to withdraw. Concerned about Enterprise's disregard for her own safety, Prince of Wales and Illustrious consult with Queen Elizabeth for a solution. Meanwhile, [[USS Vestal|Vestal]] arrives on the base and is immediately upset at the poor state Enterprise's rig is in. Enterprise is met by Belfast and Unicorn, who convince her to attend a beach party the other shipgirls are holding. Unicorn thanks Enterprise for saving her, and Enterprise reveals she feels shipgirls are only meant to be weapons, and the ocean is only a source of conflict. As Unicorn leaves to play with Javelin and Laffey, Belfast confronts Enterprise directly, warning her that if she continues to fight like she did in the previous battle, she'll eventually forget her reason for fighting in the first place. The base then receives a distress call, with Enterprise, Cleveland, Hammann, and Belfast leaving to investigate. They find [[Chinese cruiser Ning Hai|Ning Hai]] and [[Chinese cruiser Ping Hai|Ping Hai]] of the [[Republic of China (1912-1949)|Dragon Empery]]. They explain they were ambushed by Siren ships when a damaged Siren ship attacks. Enterprise uses herself as a distraction to draw the Siren's attention, but ends up being saved by Belfast when her rig malfunctions again. Seeing how Enterprise is actually compassionate towards others, Belfast decides to accompany Enterprise and teach her how be a proper "gentlewoman". 
| LineColor           = 0057AF
}}
{{Episode list
| EpisodeNumber       = 4
| Title               = SAKURA - Cloak and Dagger
| TranslitTitle       =【Rōran】Gaitō to Tanken
| NativeTitle         =【桜嵐】外套と短剣
| NativeTitleLangCode = ja
| DirectedBy          = Enishi Ōshima
| WrittenBy           = Jin Haganeya
| OriginalAirDate     = {{Start date|2019|10|24}}
| AltDate             = November 7, 2019
| ShortSummary        = Akagi, Kaga, Shoukaku, Zuikaku, and Ayanami return to the Sakura Empire base, where they are greeted by [[Japanese aircraft carrier Sōryū|Soryu]] and [[Japanese aircraft carrier Hiryū|Hiryu]]. Back at the Azur Lane base, Belfast takes it upon herself to serve as Enterprise's personal maid in an effort to draw out her inner humanity. Ping Hai and Ning Hai then report that while on a scouting mission, they encountered a Siren fleet being led by a high-class Siren, suggesting the Sirens are planning to take advantage of the conflict between Azur Lane and Red Axis. In order to gain more information, Sheffield and Edinburgh infiltrate the Sakura Empire base. Akagi is given permission from the Sakura Empire Leader, [[Japanese battleship Nagato|Nagato]],  to proceed with "Project Orochi". Ayanami reunites with fellow destroyers [[Japanese destroyer Yukikaze (1939)|Yukikaze]], [[Japanese destroyer Yūdachi (1936)|Yuudachi]] and [[Japanese destroyer Shigure (1935)|Shigure]]. Zuikaku, still upset at her inability to defeat Enterprise, receives words of encouragement from [[Japanese cruiser Takao (1930)|Takao]]. Sheffield and Edinburgh follow [[Japanese repair ship Akashi|Akashi]] to a cove beneath the base, where Akashi witnesses Akagi collaborating with a Siren Leader, Observer, to construct Project Orochi, a massive Siren battleship. Observer moves to eliminate Akashi to silence her, but Sheffield and Edinburgh intervene, stealing the Black Box critical to Project Orochi's completion. They are able to slip past Takao and Ayanami and escape with both the Black Box and Akashi. Afterwards, while still loyal to Sakura Empire, Ayanami still continues to question her motivation to fight. 
| LineColor           = 0057AF
}}
{{Episode list
| EpisodeNumber       = 5
| Title               = REUNION - Reaching Out To You
| TranslitTitle       =【Saikai】Sono Te o Sashinobete
| NativeTitle         =【再会】その手をさし伸べて
| NativeTitleLangCode = ja
| DirectedBy          = Kento Shintani<br/>Yūichirō Aoki
| WrittenBy           = Jin Haganeya
| OriginalAirDate     = {{Start date|2019|10|31}}
| AltDate             = November 14, 2019
| ShortSummary        = Sheffield, Edinburgh, and Akashi are forced to hide on an abandoned island as the Sakura Empire and Iron Blood fleets form a blockade around it. Azur Lane sends a large rescue fleet to break the blockade. As the main fleet led by Prince of Wales stages a diversionary attack, a small group consisting of Belfast, Cleveland, Javelin, and Laffey sneak through the blockade and reach the island. Belfast and Cleveland encounter Takao and [[Japanese cruiser Atago|Atago]] while Javelin and Laffey face Ayanami again. Zuikaku and Shoukaku head out to try and engage Enterprise while Sheffield's group is cornered by Iron Blood's fleet consists of Prinz Eugen, Z23, [[German destroyer Z1 Leberecht Maass|Z1]], and [[German cruiser Köln|Köln]]. Cleveland holds off Takao and Atago while Belfast assists Sheffield. Zuikaku and Shoukaku discover that they were tricked into following Hornet while Enterprise also  infiltrated the island. Enterprise forces Prinz Eugen and her fleet to retreat. Ayanami attacks Javelin and Laffey, but remains confused as to why they won't fight back until Laffey tells her that despite being on opposite sides, they want to be friends. 
| LineColor           = 0057AF
}}
{{Episode list
| EpisodeNumber       = 6
| Title               = SHACKLES - Tying Bonds, Binding Hearts
| TranslitTitle       =【Kihan】Kizuna o Tsunagu, Kokoro o Shibaru
| NativeTitle         =【羈絆】絆を繋ぐ、心を縛る
| NativeTitleLangCode = ja
| DirectedBy          = Yūichirō Aoki
| WrittenBy           = Jin Haganeya<br/>Renji Ōki
| OriginalAirDate     = {{Start date|2019|11|7}}
| AltDate             = November 21, 2019
| ShortSummary        = Despite Laffey reaching out to Ayanami, Ayanami refuses her offer of friendship and flees. Thanks to Belfast's help, Enterprise begins to interact more with the other shipgirls on the base. She and the other senior shipgirls attempt to examine the Black Box. When Enterprise touches it, she receives a brief vision what appears to be an alternate version of herself. Returning her attention to the base, Enterprise is surprised at how lively it is with new arrivals like Akashi, Ping Hai, and Ning Hai setting up shops. Belfast reminds Enterprise that shipgirls are humans as well, which is something she must learn to embrace. Javelin and Laffey take a bath with Unicorn at the public bathhouse, who reveals she's self conscious about her large breasts despite her small size. They reassure her that every shipgirl's body is different, and she should be proud of her own. That night, the three of them reaffirm their desire to befriend Ayanami. At the Sakura Empire, Prinz Eugen tries to sow distrust between Kaga and Akagi by suggesting to Kaga that Akagi has differing motives from hers. Akagi meanwhile expresses her desire to reunite with [[Amagi-class battlecruiser|Amagi]].
| LineColor           = 0057AF
}}
{{Episode list
| EpisodeNumber       = 7
| Title               = DEADLINE - For Determination, For Love
| TranslitTitle       =【Shisen】Ketsui to, Ai no Tame ni
| NativeTitle         =【死線】決意と、愛のために
| NativeTitleLangCode = ja
| DirectedBy          = Ryūta Yamamoto
| WrittenBy           = Jin Haganeya
| OriginalAirDate     = {{Start date|2019|11|21}}
| AltDate             = December 12, 2019
| ShortSummary        = Azur Lane and the Sakura Empire prepare to face each other in a decisive naval battle, sending their largest fleets. Akagi uses a spell to transport the Azur Lane fleet into an otherworldly realm, where they must fight against a combined Sakura Empire and Siren fleet. Enterprise engages Kaga, but is momentarily distracted seeing Belfast in trouble and is knocked out of the sky by Kaga. As she sinks into the ocean, Enterprise has another vision of her alternate self and reawakens in a much more powerful form, easily neutralizing Kaga. Observer watches the battle from a distance, and notes that Enterprise is the "key". Enterprise forcibly transports her and Akagi back to the real world, where she seemingly kills Akagi with a single shot before returning to her senses. Realizing what she's done, Enterprise finally realizes that she's afraid of the ocean. Meanwhile, Akagi is seemingly reunited with Amagi in the afterlife, only to find Amagi has no face as she tells her "it's not over yet."
| LineColor           = 0057AF
}}
{{Episode list
| EpisodeNumber       = 8
| Title               = INTERSECTION - Hold You, Never Let Go
| TranslitTitle       =【Kōsaku】Dakishimete Hanasanai
| NativeTitle         =【交錯】抱きしめて離さない
| NativeTitleLangCode = ja
| DirectedBy          = Hironori Tanaka
| WrittenBy           = Jin Haganeya
| OriginalAirDate     = {{Start date|2019|11|28}}
| AltDate             = December 12, 2019
| ShortSummary        = In the aftermath of the battle, the Azur Lane fleet sees numerous portals opening all over the area, with Enterprise missing. Javelin and Laffey are separated from the main fleet and encounter Ayanami again. Before they can come to an understanding, Ayanami's fellow destroyers take her away to safety while Belfast arrives to retrieve Javelin and Laffey. Kaga regains consciousness as the Sakura Empire fleet regroups, but Akagi remains missing and their mass produced sirens are inoperable. Shoukaku begins to openly wonder what secrets Akagi and Kaga have been hiding from them. Realizing they are at a disadvantage without Akagi and the Siren ships, the Sakura Empire fleet decides to retreat while Zuikaku and Shoukaku act as rearguards. Observer and Tester watch from afar, having captured Akagi. Observer reveals that having gathered data from Enterprise, the Black Mental Cube is now complete and ready to activate Orochi. Enterprise then arrives in her berserk state and easily defeats Zuikaku and Shoukaku. Before she can finish them off, Ayanami intervenes, destroying Enterprise's plane which knocks her back to her senses. Javelin and Laffey work together to save Ayanami and prevent her from falling into one of the portals. 
| LineColor           = 0057AF
}}
{{Episode list
| EpisodeNumber       = 9
| Title               = HOPE - Light Shines Through The Darkness
| TranslitTitle       =【Kibō】Kurayami ni Hikari ga Sashikomi
| NativeTitle         =【希望】暗闇に光が差し込み
| NativeTitleLangCode = ja
| DirectedBy          = Motoki Nakanishi
| WrittenBy           = Jin Haganeya
| OriginalAirDate     = {{Start date|2019|12|5}}
| AltDate             = December 19, 2019
| ShortSummary        = Ayanami wakes up in the Azur Lane base as a prisoner of war. As "punishment" for disobeying orders and saving Ayanami, both Javelin and Laffey are assigned to supervise her. The lead ships discuss the Black Mental Cube's sudden activation, and are concerned about it and its apparent connection to Enterprise. Javelin and Laffey show Ayanami around the base, and Ayanami is caught off guard that none of the Azur Lane shipgirls bear any ill will towards her. She then meets Akashi, who tells her about Akagi's alliance with the Sirens. All the while, [[HMS Ark Royal (91)|Ark Royal]] quietly observes them from a distance. Meanwhile, the Sakura Empire are reeling from the loss of both Akagi and Ayanami, and Nagato begins to have second thoughts about Project Orochi. Queen Elizabeth wonders what the Sirens' true goal is while Belfast, Illustrious, and Unicorn are confident Enterprise can overcome her inner conflict. Unicorn later joins Javelin, Laffey, and Ayanami. Ayanami begins to realize that the shipgirls of both Azur Lane and the Sakura Empire have many similarities. Observer manipulates Kaga into continuing Project Orochi, claiming that activating Orochi will reunite her with Akagi. That night, Ayanami encounters Enterprise and confides to her that she doesn't have any desire to fight, a feeling that Enterprise also shares. Reuniting with Javelin, Laffey, and Unicorn, Ayanami finally accepts becoming friends with them. 
| LineColor           = 0057AF
}}
{{Episode list
| EpisodeNumber       = 10
| Title               = ECHOES - Crimson Memories, Bleached
| TranslitTitle       =【Zankyō】Hyōhaku Sareshi Kurenai no Kioku
| NativeTitle         =【残響】漂白されし紅の記憶
| NativeTitleLangCode = ja
| DirectedBy          = Tenshō
| WrittenBy           = Jin Haganeya
| OriginalAirDate     = {{Start date|2019|12|12}}
| AltDate             = January 2, 2020
| ShortSummary        = Enterprise continues to have disturbing dreams of the alternate version of herself while the Azur Lane shipgirls still cannot learn anything about the true purpose of the Black Mental Cube. Ayanami tells her friends she wants to help stop the fighting between Azur Lane and the Sakura Empire, and Javelin, Laffey, and Unicorn agree to help her. At the Sakura Empire, Nagato decides to suspend the Orochi Project despite Kaga's protests, pointing out how they cannot continue without Akagi. Kaga then has a dream where she recalls Amagi passing away and Observer tempting Akagi with the possibility of reviving her with Orochi. Enterprise's dreams intensify, and she comes to realize the vision of herself and Amagi that she has been seeing are in fact illusions created Orochi itself, which claims it is born from humanity's desire for conflict. Belfast then confronts Enterprise, asking her why she continues to fight if she is afraid of the ocean. However, the Siren Purifier attacks the base and steals the Black Mental Cube. The Azur Lane shipgirls, including Enterprise, start a battle with Purifier to recover the Cube. At the Sakura Empire base, Prinz Eugen sneaks into Orochi's harbor in an attempt to steal it, but Kaga activates Orochi and sails it out of the base. 
| LineColor           = 0057AF
}}
{{Episode list
| EpisodeNumber       = 11
| Title               = MONSTER - A War to Span Every Ocean
| TranslitTitle       =【Kaibutsu】Amaneku Umi ni Tatakai o
| NativeTitle         =【怪物】あまねく海に戦いを
| NativeTitleLangCode = ja
| DirectedBy          = Yūichirō Aoki
| WrittenBy           = Jin Haganeya
| OriginalAirDate     = {{Start date|2020|3|13}}
| AltDate             = August 30, 2020
| ShortSummary        = Despite Azur Lane's best efforts, Purifier manages to escape with the Cube. Observer then uses the Cube to fully activate Orochi. Akagi is apparently revived by Orochi, much to Kaga's relief. As a show of force, Orochi launches a missile that completely destroys an entire uninhabited island. Realizing the danger Orochi poses, both Azur Lane and Red Axis independently mobilize to attack it. Kaga quickly realizes that Akagi is possessed by Orochi, but Orochi torments Kaga by pointing out Akagi only loved her because she inherited some of Amagi's parts. Both the Red Axis and Azur Lane fleets attack Orochi and the Siren fleet, agreeing to work together to fight their mutual foe. Zuikaku and Shoukaku are blocked by Kaga, who is still determined to protect Orochi for Akagi's sake. Ayanami then arrives to battle Kaga. Meanwhile, Enterprise and Belfast fight their way to Orochi, but it prepares to launch another missile as Orochi manipulates Akagi's memories of Amagi. 
| LineColor           = 0057AF
}}
{{Episode list
| EpisodeNumber       = 12
| Title               = BLUE WATERS - May the Azure Lanes Bless You
| TranslitTitle       =【Sōkai】Aoki Kōro ni Shukufuku o
| NativeTitle         =【蒼海】碧き航路に祝福を
| NativeTitleLangCode = ja
| DirectedBy          = Tenshō
| WrittenBy           = Jin Haganeya
| OriginalAirDate     = {{Start date|2020|3|20}}
| AltDate             = September 6, 2020
| ShortSummary        = Orochi launches the missile at the Azur Lane base, and Enterprise heads off to intercept it despite Purifier's attempts to interfere. She is able to destroy the missile, but is knocked out by the blast. Meanwhile, the Azur Lane and Red Axis fleets attack Orochi as it prepares to fire a second missile. However, Orochi is protected by an impenetrable shield, and the shipgirls are unable to inflict any damage. While unconscious, Enterprise encounters her alternate self again, who warns her conflict between shipgirls is inevitable since they are manifestations of human will like Orochi, but Enterprise decides to continue fighting to protect everybody important to her. As Enterprise rejoins the battle, Zuikaku manages to snap Kaga back to her senses by headbutting her. Enterprise fires a special arrow that pierces Orochi's shield and cripples the ship. The shipgirls rally and begin pushing back the Siren fleet. Enterprise then reaches out to and rescues Akagi, returning her to her sense as well. Orochi fades away and the Sirens withdraw, with Observer noting that even though their plan failed, the shipgirls exceeding their expectations means Humanity still has a future. Afterwards, in order to improve relations, Azur Lane and Red Axis agree to live together in the same base, with shipgirls from both sides mingling with each other. Hornet and Hammann pay a visit to the hospital, only to find an empty bed. They find the person they were going to see, Enterprise and Hornet's elder sister and the leader of the Eagle Union; [[USS Yorktown (CV-5)|Yorktown]], walking around outside again and healthy again. Z23 joins Ayanami, Javelin, Laffey, and Unicorn's group, while Enterprise is appointed to be the new overall leader of the combined Azur Lane and Red Axis force. While overlooking the ocean, Enterprise is once again approached by her alternate self, who again warns her that conflict between shipgirls is inevitable, and that war never changes. Enterprise counters that even if war doesn't change, people can. 
| LineColor           = 0057AF
}}
}}

===Audio CDs===
A CD featuring [[character song]]s sung by their respective voice actors was released in September 2018.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.azurlane.jp/1st/#/|title=アズールレーン 1st Anniversary|website=www.azurlane.jp|access-date=September 16, 2018|archive-date=September 17, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180917034528/https://www.azurlane.jp/1st/#/|url-status=dead}}</ref> A [[drama CD]] written by the author of ''Starting My Life as a Commander with Laffey'' was released on November 28, 2018.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.animatetimes.com/news/details.php?id=1535960329|title=『アズレン』ドラマCD化決定！第1弾はユニオン陣営のキャラが登場 {{!}} アニメイトタイムズ|work=『アズレン』ドラマCD化決定！第1弾はユニオン陣営のキャラが登場 - アニメイトタイムズ|access-date=September 22, 2018|language=ja}}</ref>

===Miscellaneous===
''Azur Lane'' produces an educational video series hosted on YouTube called ''Learning Ships of the World with Mikasa Dai-Senpai'' ([[:ja:三笠大先輩と学ぶ世界の艦船]]). Hosted by Mikasa, it highlights the real-life characteristics and histories of ships featured in the franchise. In the event that a featured ship still exists as a museum ship, live-action or documentary-style footage may be included. For example, for one of Belfast's episodes, footage was included of ''Azur Lane'' management visiting Belfast in the Pool of London in cooperation with [[Imperial War Museum]]s, which currently operates Belfast as a branch.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2RyVaTW6xyQ |website=YouTube |publisher=[[Yostar]] |author=Azur Lane |access-date=10 October 2022 |date=19 March 2020 | title=『三笠大先輩と学ぶ世界の艦船』#10 軽巡ベルファスト（後編）|trans-title=Learning Ships of the World with Mikasa Dai-Senpai #10: Light Cruiser Belfast (Part 2) |language=JA}}</ref>

==Reception==
[[File:Comic Market 95 Day 2 Cosplayers (31941201427).jpg|thumb|right|[[Cosplay]] of ''Azur Lane''{{'s}} Atago, based on the [[Japanese cruiser Atago|Japanese cruiser with that name]]]]
''Azur Lane'' was very popular in its home country, contributing to most of Bilibili's 2018 Q1 revenue along with the Chinese release of ''[[Fate/Grand Order]]''.<ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.sohu.com/a/232750792_116132|title=B站Q1手游业务依旧占营收大头，不受吃鸡游戏和短视频影响 {{!}} 钛快讯|work=Sohu|access-date=June 23, 2018}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://finance.yahoo.com/news/chase-bilibili-post-ipo-rally-151100418.html|title=Should You Chase Bilibili's Post-IPO Rally?|last=Sun|first=Leo|date=June 27, 2018|work=Yahoo Finance|access-date=July 4, 2018|language=en-US}}</ref> In Japan, the game enjoyed an overwhelming surge in popularity after its release,<ref name="rpgsarticle" /> despite initial accusations by fans of ''Kantai Collection'' that it was a clone.<ref name=Siliconera_20171009>{{Cite news|url=http://www.siliconera.com/2017/10/09/kancolle-imitation-azur-lane-well-japan-get-bigger-new-marriage-system/|title=KanColle Imitation Azur Lane Doing Well In Japan, About To Get Bigger With New Marriage System - Siliconera|date=October 9, 2017|work=Siliconera|access-date=January 27, 2018|language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://en.rocketnews24.com/2017/10/09/new-chinese-kancolle-clone-gains-popularity-in-japan-riles-up-some-patriotic-twitter-users/|title=New Chinese KanColle clone gains popularity in Japan, riles up some patriotic Twitter users|date=October 8, 2017|work=SoraNews24|access-date=January 27, 2018|language=en-US|archive-date=January 27, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180127203305/https://en.rocketnews24.com/2017/10/09/new-chinese-kancolle-clone-gains-popularity-in-japan-riles-up-some-patriotic-twitter-users/|url-status=dead}}</ref> After only four months, there were more than five million Japanese players. The first [[Dōjin|doujin]] convention dedicated exclusively to the game was held in November 2017.<ref name="hk01article">{{Cite news|url=https://www.hk01.com/%E9%81%8A%E6%88%B2%E5%8B%95%E6%BC%AB/124335/%E5%9C%8B%E7%94%A2%E6%89%8B%E9%81%8A-%E7%A2%A7%E8%97%8D%E8%88%AA%E7%B7%9A-%E6%97%A5%E6%9C%AC%E4%BA%BA%E6%B0%A3%E6%9A%B4%E5%8D%87%E7%9B%B4%E8%A1%9D%E4%BA%94%E5%A4%A7-%E8%89%A6%E5%A8%98%E7%8E%A9%E5%AE%B6%E4%B8%8D%E6%BB%BF%E7%B5%82%E7%88%86%E7%99%BC|title=國產手遊《碧藍航線》日本人氣暴升直衝五大 艦娘玩家不滿終爆發|last=歐敬洛|date=October 8, 2017|work=香港01|access-date=June 22, 2018|language=zh-HK}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.puniket.com/azurlane/|title=～アズールレーンオンリーイベント～ アズレン夢想|website=www.puniket.com|language=ja|access-date=October 17, 2018}}</ref> From May 2017 to August 2018, the game has earned US$170 million globally on the iOS [[AppStore]]. Chinese players spent $28 million, while Japanese players spent $139 million, accounting for approximately 82% of the game's sales.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://finance.jrj.com.cn/tech/2018/09/22102925127103.shtml#comment|title=《碧蓝航线》ios总营收达1.7亿美元 日本地区占近82%|date=September 22, 2018|website=金融界|access-date=September 28, 2018|language=zh-hans}}</ref>

The game scored within Japan's top five best games of 2017 in a [[Google Play]] user vote,<ref name=GooglePlay2017>{{cite web|url=https://playawards.withgoogle.com/intl/ja_jp/nominee/#!/games/|title=2017年のユーザー投票部門アプリ・ゲームの最優秀賞。|website=Google Play|language=ja-jp|access-date=June 18, 2018}}</ref> as well as a first place in the app section of the [[ASCII Media Works|Dengeki]] Online Awards 2017.<ref>{{Cite news|url=http://dengekionline.com/elem/000/001/696/1696271/|title="電撃オンラインアワード2017"投票結果を発表。コンシューマ部門とアプリ部門の上位10位を公開|last=電撃オンライン|work=電撃オンライン|access-date=June 23, 2018|language=ja-JP}}</ref> In September 2018, the game was awarded third place in Game of the Year in the 15th China Animation & Comic Competition.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.topcacc.net/info/snqe/201809/790.html|title=星汉灿烂 {{!}} 第15届中国动漫金龙奖获奖名单！！！ - 二次元内参 - 中国动漫金龙奖|website=www.topcacc.net|access-date=September 30, 2018|language=zh-hans|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180930115812/http://www.topcacc.net/info/snqe/201809/790.html|archive-date=September 30, 2018|url-status = dead}}</ref>

''Azur Lane''{{'}}s popularity was attributed to its gameplay and game system design, which were generally praised. ''RPG Site'' wrote the game "acts as an important lesson on how a Chinese-made title can gain popularity in Japan by offering originality in its gameplay".<ref name="rpgsarticle" /> ''[[Famitsu]]'' liked how the game depended very little on luck, let players develop their own playstyle, and was easy to pick up and play due to few microtransaction elements.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://app.famitsu.com/20171011_1155228/|title=ガチャゲーで疲れた心を癒してくれる……最近流行ってる『アズールレーン』が魅力的過ぎる話 [ファミ通App]|work=ファミ通App|access-date=June 22, 2018|language=ja}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.famitsu.tw/articles/2017/10/005845.html|title=最近大流行的手遊《碧藍航線》的魅力？|website=Fami通（台灣）|language=zh-TW|access-date=June 22, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180623005249/https://www.famitsu.tw/articles/2017/10/005845.html|archive-date=June 23, 2018|url-status = dead}}</ref> Japanese writer, actor and [[radio personality]] Mafia Kajita was impressed by the tight shooter controls. He felt the game systems were streamlined and avoided any nuisances, and believes the all-Japanese voice cast is likely a reason for its popularity.<ref name=kajita20171017>{{Cite news|url=http://www.4gamer.net/games/374/G037402/20171017020/|title=マフィア梶田の二次元が来い！：第376回「三十路を迎えたPaniPani指揮官のアズールレーン」<!--  |last=Inc.|first=Aetas-->|access-date=June 22, 2018|language=ja}}</ref>

Critics have also compared the game to ''[[Kantai Collection]]''. Hong Kong media outlet HK01 found ''Kantai Collection''{{'}}s complete lack of post-release improvements and overdependence on luck responsible for upsetting its own players, who switched contributing to ''Azur Lane''{{'}}s popularity.<ref name="hk01article" /> Mafia Kajita noted the two games had different focuses: ''Kantai Collection'' is centred on resource management while ''Azur Lane'' is a [[simulation game]] about dodging [[danmaku]] bullets while shooting the enemy.<ref name="kajita20171017" /> However, [[Shigetaka Kurita]], director of [[Kadokawa Dwango]] corporation, criticized ''Azur Lane'' for lacking the sense of "tragedy and heroism" in ''Kantai Collection''. Kurita described the game as "merely an [[Japanese idol|idol]] action game with a fleet motif". He found the greatest appeal of ''Kantai Collection'' to be the "sorrow of the Imperial Japanese Navy" saying that one might cry while playing ''Kantai Collection'' but not ''Azur Lane''.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://hkacger.com/archives/45944/%E3%80%90%E5%81%B6%E5%83%8F%E8%89%A6b%E3%80%91dwango%E8%91%A3%E4%BA%8B%E6%A0%97%E7%94%B0%E7%A9%A3%E5%B4%87%E8%AA%8D%E7%82%BA%E7%A2%A7%E8%97%8D%E8%88%AA%E7%B7%9A%E5%8F%AA%E6%98%AF%E5%96%AE%E7%B4%94/|title=【偶像艦B】Dwango董事認為碧藍航線只是單純偶像遊戲，缺乏艦これ的悲壯感 - ACGer:日系ACG情報資訊及評論網站|date=November 28, 2017|work=ACGer|access-date=August 20, 2018|language=zh-HK}}</ref>

=== Controversies ===
In February 2021, one of the game's voice actresses, [[Ai Kayano]], who recorded voice lines for ''Kaga'', ''Atago'', ''Renown'', and ''Graf Zeppelin'', was embroiled in controversy on Chinese social media as a result of a post regarding her February 11 trip to [[Yasukuni Shrine]] – a [[Shinto]] shrine [[Controversies surrounding Yasukuni Shrine|often known as a subject of political controversy]] for the enshrinement of Japanese men, women, children, and soldiers who died in [[List of wars involving Japan|numerous wars involving Japan]] between the [[Meiji (era)|Meiji]] and [[Shōwa (1926–1989)|Showa]] eras.  This number included 1,068 convicted war criminals sentenced to death by the [[International Military Tribunal for the Far East|International Military Tribunal]], 14 of whom, including former [[Prime Minister of Japan|Japanese Prime Minister]] [[Hideki Tojo]], are labelled as A-Class criminals.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Call to boycott Japanese actress in China for visiting Yasukuni Shrine of war dead｜Appledaily|url=https://en.appledaily.com/article/MDDKUZ5PSRFRNIVHPID77RAJP4|access-date=2021-06-22|website=Apple Daily|language=en-US|archive-date=June 17, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210617040457/https://en.appledaily.com/article/MDDKUZ5PSRFRNIVHPID77RAJP4/|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|date=2021-02-16|title=Japanese actress Ai Kayano sparks anger in China after Yasukuni Shrine visit|url=https://www.scmp.com/week-asia/politics/article/3121883/japan-voice-actress-ai-kayano-sparks-anger-chinas-social-media|access-date=2021-06-22|website=South China Morning Post|language=en}}</ref> Amid backlash from some Chinese fans, her voice was removed from the Chinese servers of Azur Lane and were replaced in September 2022 by a number of voice actresses for the affected characters ([[Yuka Iguchi]], Saeko Ouki, [[Ayako Kawasumi]], and [[Yumi Uchiyama]]).<ref>{{Cite web|title=Official Global/EN October 24, 2021 maintenance announcement|url=https://www.facebook.com/ArknightsGlobal/posts/1731791143686763|access-date=2021-11-14|website=Facebook|language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2022-09-03 |title=After his retirement from Azur Lane, Ai Kayano's problems with China continue |url=https://en.datosjam.net.pe/anime/otaku/after-his-retirement-from-azur-lane-ai-kayanos-problems-with-china-continue/ |access-date=2022-09-04 |website=DatosJam |language=en-US}}</ref> Outside of Chinese servers, the original voice lines remain, with the option to use the updated voice packs.

In April 2021, 18 characters{{Efn|including: ''Wichita, Portland, Rodney, South Dakota, Belfast, Sirius, Exeter, Ark Royal, Illustrious, Akagi, Kaga, Yuudachi, Yuubari, Taihou, Hyūga, Fusou, Scharnhorst, and Graf Zeppelin.''|group=}} were temporarily made unobtainable in the Chinese version of ''Azur Lane'' as a result of a Chinese government crackdown on "soft pornography".<ref name="ds">{{cite web |last1=Agossah |first1=Iyane |title=Azur Lane, Girls' Frontline Censored - What Happened, Will it Affect Genshin Impact? |url=https://www.dualshockers.com/azur-lane-girls-frontline-censored-genshin-explained/ |website=DualShockers |access-date=5 April 2023 |language=en |date=9 April 2021}}</ref> Coinciding with the removal of revealing artwork in Chinese mobile game ''[[Girls' Frontline]]'', both games were specifically named as having inappropriate content in a memo for a state-backed training course for Chinese game developers which included prohibitions on revealing [[fan service]] and [[Panchira|panty shot]]s.<ref name="scmp"/> 213 video game companies signed a [[self-censorship]] pact in September agreeing to remove content that would promote the "wrong set of values" and fall foul of [[Video games in China#Government oversight|Chinese government regulations on gaming]].<ref name="scmp">{{cite web |last1=Ye |first1=Josh |title=Exclusive: Headache for China's game developers as memo details Beijing's red lines |url=https://www.scmp.com/tech/policy/article/3150622/new-game-approvals-dry-china-internal-memo-shows-developers-now-have |website=South China Morning Post |publisher=South China Morning Post Publishers Ltd. |access-date=5 April 2023 |language=en |date=29 September 2021|url-access=subscription}}</ref>

On February 24, 2022, the comment sections of all Northern Parliament ships were closed down.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://twitter.com/azurlanees/status/1496906819846955013|access-date=2022-02-24|website=Twitter|language=en |title=Se reporta que los comentarios de los personajes pertenecientes al parlamento del norte marca error y no permite verlos ni enviar nuevos. ¿Será un error como tal?, o una medida tomada por AzurLane (Yostar), por lo que está ocurriendo en Ucrania. #AzurLane |author=AzurLaneEs |date=24 Feb 2022 |url-status=dead |archive-date=2022-02-24 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220224175619/https://twitter.com/azurlanees/status/1496906819846955013}}</ref> The game's event called "Abyssal Refrain", which involves [[Soviet Union|Soviet]] ships like the one called {{ship|Soviet destroyer|Kiev||2}}, premiered on the same day that [[Russian invasion of Ukraine|Russia began its invasion to Ukraine]], which was suspected to be the reason for the comment section's closure. On September 22, the comments section for all Northern Parliament ships has re-opened, as with the rollout of the new comment reporting feature that same day.{{citation needed|date=October 2024}}

In March 2024, the character [[HMS Anson (79)|Anson]] was announced. Her official design was met with confusion and backlash from fans due to the fact that it did not match the illustration design of her sisters.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.gamerbraves.com/azur-lane-postpones-character-release-following-complaints/|title=Azur Lane Postpones Character Release Following Complaints|date=March 25, 2024}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.droidgamers.com/news/azur-lane-anson/|title=Blue-Hued Boo-boo? Azur Lane Rethinks Anson's Design Post Criticism|first=Amrita R.|last=Sankar|date=March 25, 2024|website=Droid Gamers}}</ref> In its aftermath, the official Azur Lane [[Twitter]] account issued an apology and deleted the announcement post as well as any other posts about Anson from their social media accounts.{{citation needed|date=October 2024}}

==Notes==
{{notelist}}

==References==
{{reflist}}

==External links==
* {{official website}}
* {{Official website|https://azurlane-anime.jp/|Anime official website}} {{in lang|ja}}
* {{anime News Network|anime|21760}}

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