The rise of internet-distributed television has changed not just the way we consume content, but also how it’s produced. Netflix’s Arcane is an animated series based on the game League of Legends. It is a prime example of how streaming platforms are pushing the boundaries of animated television.

Unlike traditional animated series, Arcane offers a visually stunning experience that merges 2D and 3D animation in a way that has never been seen before. Arcane blends high budget animation with compelling storytelling. The production of Arcane had an estimated budget of $250 million for its first season, making it the most expensive animated series ever produced for streaming (Wallenstein, 2024). This level of investment has allowed the show to break free from the constraints of traditional animation, creating a cinematic experience that feels closer to a feature film than a typical animation series. The blend of hand-drawn techniques with cutting-edge CGI has resulted in a unique visual aesthetic that appeals to many audiences.

Arcane also exemplifies the power of cross-media business by showcasing the collaboration between Riot Games and Netflix. This partnership benefited both companies: Netflix gained a massive number of streams, while Riot Games attracted a new fanbase, with many viewers discovering League of Legends for the first time. As Ryu (2023) points out, Arcane exemplifies how video game companies like Riot Games are using streaming platforms to reach wider audiences beyond their existing fanbase. The success of Arcane lies in its captivating animation, compelling storyline, and intricate character development, which transcended gaming fans and appealed to a wider audience. Its innovative storytelling and high quality production have made it one of the most watched and popular animated series on Netflix.

To conclude, Arcane shows how internet-distributed television is reshaping the world of animated content. As streaming platforms continue to invest in high-quality, original content, shows like Arcane are setting a new standard for what viewers can expect from digital television.

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• Ryu, S. (2023). Unlocking the intellectual property (IP) potential of Riot Games’ League of Legends. [Preprint] DOI: 10.4135/9781071915899.
• Wallenstein, A. (2024). ‘Why Riot Games’ entertainment aims stalled beyond ‘Arcane,’ the priciest animated series ever (exclusive)’, Variety. Available at: https://variety.com/2024/biz/news/riot-games-arcane-hollywood-netflix-most-expensive-animated-series-ever-1236196655/