There is absolutely no question that Attack on Titan has become one of the most successful anime franchises of all time. Indeed, since the conclusion of the first season years ago, fans have been speculating about the release of the anime's highly-anticipated second season.

During the last few weeks, reports have emerged which alleged that Wit Studio, the firm behind the popular anime, would be delaying the release of Attack on Titan season 2 because of the company's ongoing project, the acclaimed Kabaneri of the Iron Fortress.

In a lot of ways, doing so would make sense. After all, the Attack on Titan manga has not covered enough of the plot to warrant a complete second season. Thus, focusing on Kabaneri of the Iron Fortress was seen by numerous fans as a great way to give the Attack on Titan manga to cover some valuable ground.

Adding to this speculation is the fact that the "Attack on Titan" manga is approaching the climax of the series' most intense arc to date. In fact, during the last issue of the manga, protagonist Eren has already begun his attempt to topple the Colossal Titan single-handedly. Indeed, considering the events transpiring in the manga, waiting for the manga seems very much like the correct decision.

Recently, however, a series of rather disconcerting rumors have emerged, stating that Attack on Titan season 2 would be set for a 2016 release anyway. Of course, such news has divided fans down the middle, with some fans rejoicing that a new season is finally going to be released, while other fans are getting apprehensive, because the new season would be forced to follow a storyline that is separate from the manga.

It is quite pertinent to note that part of the reason behind the success of Attack on Titan's first season is the fact that the anime stayed very close to the events of the manga. Thus, forcing a 2016 release might indeed compromise one of the anime's strongest suits - its compelling plot.

As of writing, however, Wit Studio has not released an official statement on the matter.