OAV stands for "Original Animated Video". Another term also used is OVA, which means "Original Video Animation". This is basically the same as a direct-to-video release, bypassing theatrical or television markets.
or OVA: original video animation. Anime produced directly for video with a much higher quality of animation than television. May involve content not suitable or popular enough for television. OAV/OVA productions do not have the stigma that direct-to-video productions in North America do.
Original Anime Video or Original Video Animation. The term refers to direct-to-video releases (like 3x3 Eyes), as opposed to TV shows or theatrical releases.
Original Animation Video - Anglicized version of the term "OVA" (original video animation). Denotes animation produced specifically for the direct-to-video market.
original animation video (also OVA). Refers to an animé released straight to video, without being seen on TV first. New series and those unsuitable for TV due to content are usually made into OAVs. OAVs don't have the stigma that straight-to-video series in the West often do; indeed, they're often better than TV animé, which usually has to be toned down or edited for either time or content. OAVs can also be subtitled, leaving the original Japanese voicetrack intact, whereas a TV series released in the West would usually be required to be dubbed, and stay that way when released on video. In short, I like OAVs.
stands for ‘Original Video Animation'. In Japan a lot of animé is created purely for the VHS and DVD formats and will not be broadcast on TV or in cinemas, this allows the creators to have more flexibility than television will allow but without the financial risk of a cinema feature. Many of these series or one-off specials are available here (e.g. Samurai X). Sometimes the abbreviation can appear as OVA (Original Animation Videos) but it means the same thing.
Original Animated Video. A sort of Anime miniseries produced to be released directly to video. Usually 4 to 8 parts, each one 30 to 45 minutes long. Frequently released in the US on volumes containing two or more OAVs. Also called OVA.
Stands for “Original Animated Video,†the Japanese equivalent to direct to DVD release. Also known as OVA (Original Video Animation).
Original Animated Video. A sort of Anime miniseries produced to be released directly to video. Usually 4 to 8 parts, each one 30 to 45 minutes long. Frequently released two to a tape in America. Also called OVA.
see original animation video
Original Animation Video. A product sold direct to video. Intended to stand between TV and movie quality, but highly variable.
