The network was launched in North America in late 2002 and is marketed to multi system operators (MSOs) as both a free and subscription video on demand (VOD) programming service.

Vision had sold off the Anime Network to Valkyrie Media Partners LLC as part of the dissolution of the company and the reorganization of its assets.

[6] At launch, the Anime Network was only available by video on demand to Comcast subscribers in the Philadelphia area with 1.2 million customers with more providers choosing to carry the service later on.

[8] From June 30, 2004, to January 4, 2008, Anime Network offered a 24/7 channel available to pay television providers.

[13] On June 3, 2007, Anime Network was launched in the United Kingdom as a programming block on the Propeller TV satellite channel, produced by A.D.