MUMBAI: Yu-Gi-Oh!, the anime titan that launched a thousand trading cards (and schoolyard duels), is bubbling into a whole new game — sparkling water. In a move that’s both fizzy and fandom-fuelled, Taiwanese drinks maker YHB Biotech is teaming up with Konami Cross Media NY to release a line of anime-themed sparkling waters under its Ocean Bomb label.
The character-clad cans — starring fan favourites from Yu-Gi-Oh!’s legendary universe — will hit shelves in Q2 of 2025, with distribution slated across north and south America, the EU and the UK. The drinks are caffeine-free, kid-friendly and bursting with fruity flavours designed to quench thirst and nostalgia in equal measure.
“Just when Yu-Gi-Oh! fans think they’ve seen it all, we’re excited to open our phenomenal anime property to the specialty beverage product category for the first time,” quipped Konami Cross Media NY vice president of licensing and marketing Jennifer Coleman. “YHB’s Ocean Bomb canned sparkling flavored waters will be sold through specialty stores focused on the food and beverage category.”
Ocean Bomb isn’t new to the anime aisle. With previous pop-culture pours starring Sailor Moon and Dragon Ball Super, it’s a seasoned player in the kawaii drinks market.
YHB Biotech executive En En added: “Yu-Gi-Oh!’s dominance in the global marketplace for over 25 years will be a tremendous boost in bolstering consumer awareness and introducing the Ocean Bomb product line to new markets throughout the Americas, Europe and the UK. It’s a wonderful partnership and growth opportunity for both Ocean Bomb and Yu-Gi-Oh! “
Whether you’re duelling monsters or dodging deadlines, these cans promise to be the ultimate refreshment — no trap card required.