Original video animation

, abbreviated (and sometimes as OAV by English-speakers) (also OAD, original animation DVD), is a term originating from Japanese animation (anime) for animated films and series made specially for release in home-video formats. The majority are released direct-to-video, without prior showings on TV or in theaters, however, 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 OVA titles were originally made available on VHS, later becoming more popular on LaserDisc and eventually DVD.