original video animation

, abbreviated , is a Japanese-originating term for animated films and series which are made specially to be released on home video formats. The large majority are released direct-to-video, without prior showings on TV or in theatres; there may be very rare occasions where, for example, the first part of an OVA series is broadcast for promotional purposes. OVA titles were originally made available on VHS, later becoming more popular on LaserDisc and eventually DVD.
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