CloverWorks and A-1 Pictures Open New Animation Studio FLINT BASE in April 2026
The creation of a shared animation studio by two major Aniplex subsidiaries, with Sony Group backing, signals a structural investment in training new animators rather than relying solely on outsourcing or freelance talent.
Reporting from 2 sources: A-1 Pictures, CloverWorks.
CloverWorks and A-1 Pictures announced on November 4, 2025, that they will open a new animation studio called FLINT BASE in April 2026. The studio is a joint venture between the two Aniplex subsidiaries, backed by the Sony Group. FLINT BASE is described as a new challenge in animation production, focused on drawing and animator work. The companies stated that the studio aims to serve as an entry point for students aspiring to become animators. They noted that even with ongoing digital innovation, animation still requires the work of many animators. Both CloverWorks and A-1 Pictures will maintain their existing in-house animation teams and training systems, which will continue as the core of each studio. FLINT BASE will operate as a separate entity. The announcement was accompanied by the launch of a recruitment drive for new graduates in 2026, specifically for the role of animator at FLINT BASE. Applications are open until November 28, 2025. The official FLINT BASE website provides further details.
FLINT BASE is a new animation studio established as a joint effort between CloverWorks and A-1 Pictures, both subsidiaries of Aniplex under the Sony Group. The studio is scheduled to begin operations in April 2026. The companies framed the move as a response to the ongoing need for animators in an industry where digital technology continues to evolve but hand-drawn animation remains central. CloverWorks and A-1 Pictures each have their own in-house animation teams and training programs, which they said will continue to operate as the core of their respective studios. FLINT BASE is intended to complement those efforts by providing a dedicated entry point for students. The recruitment announcement specifies that the new graduate hiring for FLINT BASE is separate from the companies' existing recruitment processes, though it is managed by CloverWorks. The application deadline for the animator position is November 28, 2025. The official FLINT BASE website contains the full job requirements and application details.
Synthesized by Yomimono from the 2 cited sources below, including Japanese-language reporting where cited, then editorially reviewed before publishing.
Sources
- A-1 Pictures 2026年4月始動 作画スタジオ「FLINT BASE (フリントベース)」開所について
- CloverWorks 2026年度 新卒採用「作画（FLINT BASE）」募集開始