For those who couldn’t afford subscription-based streaming services, Aniwave was a real lifesaver. It provided a way to watch anime without the hefty price tag, though it came with its own set of legal and safety concerns. Despite these issues, many people turned to it for their anime fix.
Aniwave started out as 9anime in 2016, quickly becoming a popular site because of its extensive collection of anime shows and movies. But in late 2023, the site had to rebrand to Aniwave due to legal troubles related to DMCA (Digital Millennium Copyright Act) takedown notices. Unfortunately, Aniwave didn’t stick around for long. On August 26, users began seeing error messages when trying to access the site, and later, a farewell note from the Aniwave team.
Why did Aniwave disappear, and will it come back?
The future of Aniwave is uncertain, but based on the farewell message, it seems like the site might be gone for good. The exact reasons for its shutdown aren’t clear, but it’s likely due to ongoing legal issues that have plagued unofficial streaming sites for years.
Aniwave’s closure comes at a time when many illegal streaming sites are facing serious legal challenges. Just days before Aniwave’s disappearance, it was announced that Webtoon Entertainment would be taking legal action against over 170 piracy sites. This legal crackdown probably pushed Aniwave’s team to shut down the site preemptively.
For those who relied on Aniwave, it’s a tough break. But don’t worry—there are plenty of legal anime streaming options available. Check out some of the top legal streaming services to find a new way to enjoy your favorite shows.