For me, anime has always occupied a unique spot in my affections. As a child, I was spellbound by the elaborate settings and rich characters of classic anime series. Delving into modern anime now, I’ve unearthed numerous undiscovered treasures and blockbuster hits that are defining the future direction of this cherished form of entertainment. The transformation is both thrilling and sentimental, and I eagerly look forward to recommending some standout selections from this contemporary period to fellow fans.
1. ‘Demon Slayer’ (2019-)
‘Demon Slayer’ (also known as ‘Kimetsu no Yaiba’) isn’t simply an anime centered around supernatural conflicts; it’s a story that heavily emphasizes the importance of family ties. When demons mercilessly attack Tanjiro’s family, and his sister Nezuko is transformed into one, they embark on a quest for vengeance and reconciliation.
‘Demon Slayer’ stands out with its stunning art style, particularly during battle scenes, thanks to the exceptional work by animation studio Ufotable. They’ve truly excelled in creating fluidity and vividness in every scene. However, it’s not just about visual aesthetics; each character is richly developed, allowing viewers to connect with their individual journeys, hardships, and growth. The narrative skillfully combines emotional depth, intense action, and themes of resilience, making for a deeply engaging series.’
2. ‘Chainsaw Man’ (2022-)
Initially, ‘Chainsaw Man’ may seem like just a violent, high-octane show, but it offers layers beyond action. It delves deep into the mind of its main character, Denji, who is not only a devil hunter but also has a devil bound to him. The series stands out due to its uncensored depiction of emotions alongside gruesome fights.
The blend of intense emotion and fast-paced action sets ‘Chainsaw Man’ apart. It fearlessly tackles heavy subject matter while also incorporating humorous and bizarre scenes, demonstrating the tale’s remarkable flexibility in storytelling.
3. ‘Jujutsu Kaisen’ (2020-)
The action-packed anime ‘Jujutsu Kaisen’ has left quite an impact on the anime community, and it’s not hard to see why. At its core lies the concept of curses that originate from human negativity, with a select few possessing the power to fight them. A seemingly ordinary high school student named Yuji Itadori is unexpectedly thrown into the world of Jujutsu sorcerers after accidentally ingesting a cursed item. The show masterfully constructs an intricate universe without overwhelming its audience.
In ‘Jujutsu Kaisen’, character depth truly shines. As the narrative unfolds, every character – from heroes to villains – reveals intricate aspects of their personalities. The action scenes are not only visually captivating but also cleverly designed, resulting in a unique fusion of intelligence and visual appeal.
4. ‘Attack On Titan’ (2013–2023)
‘Attack on Titan’ is widely recognized as one of the most distinctive modern anime series. It takes place in a universe where mankind is teetering on the edge of annihilation due to colossal human-like creatures called Titans. The narrative centers around Eren Yeager and his companions, who pledge to reclaim their world from these monstrous beings. Initially, it seems like a simple storyline, but it quickly develops into an intricate saga encompassing themes of politics, morality, and the essence of humanity itself.
The show ‘Attack on Titan’ stands out due to its persistent power to astonish and captivate viewers. Its complex morals, unexpected storylines, and intriguing character development, particularly that of Eren, make it more than a simple anime about titan slayers. Instead, it offers a profound exploration into the human psyche, delving into the essence of freedom.
5. ‘My Hero Academia’ (2016-)
In a universe where most people possess unique abilities, or what they call ‘quirks,’ the anime ‘My Hero Academia’ follows the story of Izuku Midoriya, a quirkless individual with a dream to be the best hero. Despite the idea seeming commonplace, the presentation is far from run-of-the-mill. This series doesn’t solely dwell on spectacular fights but also delves deep into the spirit and perseverance of its characters.
Among its most striking features is the multifaceted ensemble, each character possessing distinctive traits and individuality, which breathes life and energy into the school environment. The themes of courage, camaraderie, and determination transcend the television screen, positioning ‘My Hero Academia’ as a shining symbol of optimism and motivation for numerous viewers.
6. ‘The Promised Neverland’ (2019–2021)
‘The Promised Neverland’ presents a spine-tingling narrative unfolding within an orphanage concealing a grim reality. The children, guided by Emma, Norman, and Ray, gradually peel back the layers to uncover the truth and concoct a daring escape plot. This captivating series is brimming with tension and intricate mental challenges, but it’s the heartwarming ties of kinship and camaraderie that lie at its very heart.
In a captivating manner, this story explores the profound themes of selflessness, optimism, and the extraordinary measures taken to safeguard loved ones. The intriguing contrast between purity and the ominous undercurrents of the plot makes ‘The Promised Neverland’ an exhilarating viewing experience, pushing the boundaries and setting new standards for horror-thriller genres in anime.
7. ‘Violet Evergarden’ (2018)
Title ‘Violet Evergarden’ showcases a remarkable blend of emotional depth and captivating narrative imagery. The story unfolds around Violet, a veteran soldier striving to adapt post-war life, seeking to comprehend her own sentiments. In the capacity of an Auto Memory Doll, she pens letters for others, expressing their feelings eloquently through her words.
Via this story, not only does she observe an array of human feelings, but she also embarks on a private voyage of self-exploration and recovery. The anime’s stunning visuals and profound narrative make ‘Violet Evergarden’ a heartwarming examination of love, grief, and the human experience.
8. ‘Spy x Family’ (2022-)
As a movie enthusiast, I can confidently say that ‘Spy x Family’ is an enchanting fusion of espionage, humor, and domestic drama. This tale follows the exploits of Twilight, a seasoned secret agent tasked with assembling a pseudo-family to execute a critical mission. A whimsical and touching narrative unfolds as this unconventional family strives to maintain their bond while harboring their respective secrets.
The appeal of ‘Spy x Family’ comes from its skillful blend. It smoothly transitions between exciting espionage adventures and authentic family scenes, providing both humor and affection. This distinctive combination allows the series to resonate with a wide range of viewers, setting it apart as a remarkable addition in the modern anime realm.
9. ‘Dr. Stone’ (2019-)
In the anime ‘Dr. Stone’, the world we’re familiar with is reverted when every human turns into stone. After thousands of years, Senku Ishigami wakes up and is driven to restore civilization through science. This series showcases the brilliance of human innovation and the adventurous spirit.
What makes ‘Dr. Stone’ distinctive is its commitment to authentic scientific explanations, as Senku relies on real-world science to conquer obstacles. However, it’s not just about the science; this series is also a story about camaraderie and perseverance. As Senku rebuilds society, the bonds he forms serve as the foundation of the plot, enriching this extraordinary journey with emotional depth.
10. ‘Black Clover’ (2017–2021)
In the magical realm of ‘Black Clover’, almost everyone possesses the power, except for the main character, Asta. Yet, he dreams big, aiming to be crowned as the Wizard King. His unyielding determination, coupled with his unique anti-magic capabilities, propels him on a grand adventure. The series adheres to shonen genre conventions but does so with zest and originality.
Asta’s unyielding determination, combined with the varied personalities of the characters, gives ‘Black Clover’ its distinctive taste. The fights are intense, the power-ups exciting, but fundamentally, it’s a tale about endurance, competition, and the idea that anyone, regardless of their origins, has the potential to excel.
11. ‘Re: Zero’ (2016-)
‘Re: Zero – Beginning Life in a Different World’ presents us with the character of Subaru Natsuki, who unexpectedly finds himself in a strange realm where he learns he can resurrect after death. However, there’s a twist: each resurrection results in emotional and mental distress. This makes Subaru’s adventure both intriguing and heart-wrenching.
What sets ‘Re: Zero’ apart is its exploration of vulnerability, the consequences of errors, and the intricacies of human feelings. It provides exciting escapades and well-developed characters, but it also doesn’t hesitate to delve into the depths of its lead character’s mind, making it a captivating choice within the isekai genre.
12. ‘Vinland Saga’ (2019–)
Based on historical narratives, ‘Vinland Saga’ chronicles the journey of Thorfinn, a young Viking who is on a quest for vengeance over his father’s murder. Beyond the depiction of battles and territorial conquest, it delves deeply into themes of war, tranquility, and mankind’s longing for a sanctuary where they can belong.
In ‘Vinland Saga’, every character brings depth to the story through their unique motivations and beliefs. The artwork and animation are exceptional, portraying both the harshness of battles and the tranquility of the surroundings in stunning detail. This anime presents a unique take on historical stories by blending reality with imagination, resulting in an engaging tale.
13. ‘One-Punch Man’ (2015–2019)
‘One-Punch Man’ revolves around an intriguing concept: a powerful hero who can vanquish any foe with just one punch. The main character, Saitama, grapples with an internal struggle as he seeks an adversary worthy of his strength. However, the show’s brilliance comes from its clever flipping of established superhero and shonen genre conventions.
This show, ‘One-Punch Man’, is filled with thrilling fights and eccentric characters. It also explores deeper themes like ennui, self-discovery, and heroism’s essence. The unique mix of comedy, action, and self-reflection has catapulted it to international fame, placing it high on the list of must-see shows for the new generation.
14. ‘Tokyo Revengers’ (2021-)
In the anime ‘Tokyo Revengers’, themes such as time travel, gang violence, and personal reformation intertwine. When character Takemichi Hanagaki is granted the ability to journey back in time by 12 years, he becomes resolute on averting a devastating fate for his girlfriend and modifying the sequence of events that have shaped his dismal reality today. The show skillfully combines dramatic gang skirmishes with poignant scenes of self-reflection.
The story of Takemichi unfolds as he tackles the hurdles of his adolescence and the intricacies of friendships, offering a striking depiction of resilience and the extent one might travel to rectify past errors. ‘Tokyo Revengers’ is an emotional roller coaster, pulling audiences deep into its tangled network of connections and occurrences.
15. ‘Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End’ (2023-)
‘Frieren: Journey’s Dawn’ – A captivating narrative that ventures beyond the conventional realms of adventure. Following her victory over the Demon King, Frieren, an elf mage, embarks on a personal quest for introspection and wisdom as she confronts the relentless march of time and the transient essence of human existence.
This series explores deep themes such as mortality, recollection, and yearning, providing a unique take on life beyond the traditional “they lived happily ever after.” Its introspective storytelling elevates it to an exceptional work within contemporary productions, demonstrating that narratives can continue to astonish and resonate with us deeply.
16. ‘Trigun Stampede’ (2023-)
‘Trigun Stampede’ brings back Vash the Stampede, a man with an astounding $60 billion bounty on his head. In a world that feels like the Wild West but exists off our planet, Vash’s infamous nickname as “The Humanoid Typhoon” is well-known, however, his quirky personality frequently clashes with this fearsome title.
This part delves deeper into the delicate interplay of lighthearted jests and deep soul-searching, investigating ideas about morality, forgiveness, and the duality within humans that encompasses both devastation and empathy. It underscores the enduring charm of ‘Trigun’, seamlessly weaving traditional elements with innovative storytelling.
17. ‘Blue Lock’ (2022-)
Delving into the realm of soccer (football), ‘Blue Lock’ presents a fresh perspective within sports-themed narratives. The plot centers around an ambitious project designed to cultivate the ultimate striker for Japan’s national team. As competitors battle it out to claim the top spot, the series highlights the psychological and physical hurdles that athletes must overcome.
The detailed artwork vividly portrays the excitement of football games, turning every encounter into an intense and spellbinding event. Going beyond mere sportsmanship, ‘Blue Lock’ explores concepts like rivalry, individual drive, and the core principles of camaraderie, weaving a gripping storyline that unfolds not just on the field but off it as well.
18. ‘The Rising of the Shield Hero’ (2019-)
‘The Shield Hero, ‘The Rising of,’ sets itself apart within the isekai genre through its gritty and redeeming storyline. The protagonist, Naofumi Iwatani, is transported to a new world as the Shield Hero and immediately faces betrayal and social exclusion. Despite being armed only with his shield, Naofumi battles against prejudice and injustice in this strange land.’
This series provides a detailed exploration of themes like trust, resilience, and redemption. The bonds that Naofumi creates, especially with his associates, emphasize the significance of faithfulness and empathy, adding depth to its consideration among contemporary works.
19. ‘Kaguya-Sama: Love Is War’ (2019–2023)
On the playful field of love, ‘Kaguya-Sama: Love Is War’ delivers a laugh-out-loud perspective on romance and tactics. In this story, Kaguya Shinomiya and Miyuki Shirogane, both brilliant minds at an exclusive school, are locked in a never-ending game of mental chess, each trying to outsmart the other into admitting their feelings first.
Each episode offers an amusing battle of wits, brimming with creative strategies and humorous misinterpretations. Beneath the laughter, the show subtly explores themes such as vulnerability, ego, and the intricacies of youthful romance. Its intelligent plotline and lovable characters set it apart as a noteworthy romantic comedy in today’s modern anime genre.
20. ‘Odd Taxi’ (2021)
Title ‘Odd Taxi’ explores the intricate lives of its varied characters, each connected through a taxi driver named Odokawa. At first glance, it may seem like an easy yarn about talking animals going about their daily routines. However, beneath this veneer lies a captivating narrative that delves into enigma, criminal activities, and self-reflection.
The show artfully weaves together the personal narratives of its characters, delving into topics like solitude, societal expectations, and self-discovery. Its distinctive narrative style, coupled with an engaging plotline, makes ‘Odd Taxi’ a memorable experience, underscoring the complex bonds that tie us as human beings.
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2025-06-01 17:15