The ANIMACE Theme Update continues to push the theme forward, and this new release delivers one of its most important improvements so far. The new version 1.5 focuses on independence, performance, and a smoother workflow for anime, manga, and novel catalog creators. With new custom modules replacing external dependencies, improved metadata fields, and enhancements to the AniList integration, the Update marks a major step toward long‑term stability and scalability.
Removed ACF Extended and Introduces Native Custom Modules
One of the biggest highlights of this ANIMACE Theme Update is the complete removal of ACF Extended as a required plugin.
This release introduces ANIMACE’s own native modules, built specifically for the theme’s structure and content types.
This shift brings several benefits:
- No more reliance on third‑party extensions
- Faster performance and cleaner code
- Better long‑term stability
- A more controlled and optimized user experience
After updating to 1.5, users can safely delete ACF Extended from their installation.
This milestone reinforces the ANIMACE Theme Update 1.5 as a move toward a fully self‑sufficient, purpose‑built anime catalog theme.
New Custom Field for Adding Chapters (Manga & Novel)
As part of the ANIMACE Theme Update, the “Add Chapters” field has been completely rebuilt using only ACF Pro and custom development.
This new module is smoother and optimized for chapter lists, giving editors an easy workflow for managing serialized manga and novel content. No functions from the previous module are lost (same functions are maintained, such as chapter creation and modal window editing) and everything remains in its place.
New Language Field With Flag Icons
ANIMACE 1.5 also introduces in the same way a redesigned Languages field, now built entirely with ACF Pro and custom code.
The new version uses bundle flag icons for clearer visual identification, making multilingual content management easier and improving the backend experience for editors. The same functionalities as before are retained, such as drag and reorder.
Improved Multi‑Taxonomy Field
Another improvement included in the update is a fully custom multi‑taxonomy selector, replacing the old ACF Extended implementation.
This new field offers:
- Faster loading, less “Bloated”
- More reliable selection behavior
It’s especially useful for assigning multiple actors and staff (such as the current “People” module) — all powered by native ACF Pro and theme‑specific development.
Select2 Dependency Fixes
The ANIMACE Theme Update resolves several Select2‑related issues, ensuring smoother dropdown interactions across backend fields using it.
Overlaps from other plugins that also used Select2, which were loading the same scripts multiple times, have also been fixed. Now only Select2 provided by ACF Pro is loaded on content, as it’s the only one that’s actually needed.
It also includes a new custom script to display thumbnails where taxonomy terms are present, something that ACF Pro does not normally do.
GLightbox Added to Actor & Character Galleries
On the frontend, the ANIMACE Theme Update introduces GLightbox for Actor and Character galleries, offering:
- A modern lightbox experience
- Faster image loading
- Better navigation
- Cleaner, more immersive visuals
This is a noticeable improvement for users browsing cast and character profiles.
Optimized AniList Module With Better Image Handling
The ANIMACE Theme Update also enhances the AniList integration with new loader animation when saving content via AniList
And also:
- More efficient image saving and management (code rewritten)
- New placeholder included for empty images
- Cleaner data handling detecting the first saves
These improvements make the import process smoother, more transparent, and less resource‑intensive.
ANIMACE: A Stronger, Faster, More Independent Theme
The ANIMACE Theme Update reinforces the theme as the most specialized and future‑proof anime catalog solutions available.
By replacing external dependencies with custom modules, improving metadata fields, enhancing galleries, and optimizing AniList integration, this update delivers a more stable and efficient experience for creators and editors.
If you manage anime, manga, or novel content, the new ANIMACE Theme Update 1.5 gives you more control, better performance, and a cleaner workflow than ever.
