mm2 Entertainment, “Dinosaur Train” creator Sparky Animation and DSTAR Moving Pictures are developing a new 3D-animated series inspired by the legendary voyages of the 15th-century Chinese explorer Zheng He.

The 8x11-minute “Zheng He Fantasy Adventures” is scheduled for a 2026 release.

The Singapore-based companies said today that the series blended historical authenticity with fantasy elements – including a purple dragon called Hulu and a camel named Mao Mao – and modern storytelling techniques.

In a joint statement today, the companies said the series would “incorporate international storytelling techniques and cultural elements, making it suitable for global OTT streaming platform audiences”.

No streaming platform has been confirmed.

“Zheng He’s voyages are a testament to the power of cultural exchange and peaceful diplomacy. Through this series, we hope to inspire a new generation to embrace exploration, diversity and global understanding,” said Dr. Zhang Lu, founder of DSTAR Moving Pictures and president of the International Zheng He Society.

The new project, designed to resonate with global audiences, emerges in a grim domestic animation production environment, with local creators glum about prospects and concerned about the impact of AI on animators.