10 highly underrated Shonen anime shows you should watch

10 highly underrated Shonen anime shows you should watch

If you are a fan of Shonen anime, chances are that you have already watched many of the most popular shows in this genre. However, there are also some lesser-known gems that may have gone unnoticed. Here are a few recommendations that you may not have heard of.

These popular series including Attack on Titan, One Piece, and Jujutsu Kaisen offer plenty of content to keep one occupied. However, they often rely on stereotypes that may become tiresome after watching several hundred episodes.

Additionally, there is a plethora of top-quality anime that may not receive as much attention, but still offers equally unforgettable narratives and settings. In certain instances, these may be even more impactful, although personal preference plays a role.

Therefore, we have compiled a list of the top underrated Shonen anime that you should definitely give a chance if you are looking for a change from the likes of Goku and Deku. These shows offer a perfect balance of humor and intense action scenes.

Rent-a-Girlfriend

Kazuya from Rent-a-Girlfriend
Crunchyroll

After being dumped, Kazuya turns to a rented girlfriend named Chizuru for companionship. He continues to rent her for various occasions in order to impress his family and make them believe he is leading a happy life. However, his plans backfire when his ex-girlfriends unexpectedly appear, leading to some uncomfortable situations.

Rent-a-Girlfriend is a delightful, carefree, and heartwarming romantic-comedy that deserves to be ranked among your favorite sitcoms for enjoyable and effortless entertainment.

9. Radiant (2018-2020)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l7mhwer2ofU

In the world of Radiant, demons known as Nemeses regularly emerge from the sky. These creatures are deadly and most people who encounter them are killed. However, there are a few humans who have survived meeting a demon and are known as sorcerers. The anime follows the story of a young sorcerer named Seth, who embarks on a mission to locate and destroy Radiant, the breeding place of these monsters.

Despite its fresh art-style and unique character designs, Radiant failed to attract a larger audience. Despite being produced by the same studio as Classroom of the Elite, this did not propel Lerche into the mainstream, and it remains a cult hit.

8. Anime Series: Nobunagun (2014)

Sio Ogura from Nobunagun
Tubes

In Nobunagun, the setting is a world controlled by extraterrestrial beings. In response, humanity develops a group of soldiers known as E-Gene holders. These individuals are essentially reborn versions of significant figures from the past, strategically chosen to utilize their unique abilities and expertise in the battle against the aliens.

Sio Ogura, the main character, hails from the Sengoku Era leader Nobunaga Oda, but her journey to the battlefield is not as straightforward as others. The clever incorporation of historical elements in Nobunagun sets it apart from other shows centered on epic conflicts – it is a must-watch.

7. D.Gray-man (2006-2008)

Hulu

In the series D.Gray-man, certain individuals known as exorcists are employed by the Black Order to combat the malevolent intentions of the Millennium Earl, whose ultimate goal is to conquer the world and eradicate humanity. These exorcists possess unique abilities granted by a substance called Innocence, which has manifested in protagonist Allen Walker’s spectral left arm.

Despite being molded by a harsh mentor, he becomes increasingly determined to defeat the demons when he discovers that he may become one himself because of his family. With a mix of historical fantasy, horror, and clever incorporation of hero cliches, D.Gray-man is the perfect recommendation for those craving the same atmosphere as Fullmetal Alchemist.

6. Soul Eater (2004-2013)

Crunchyroll

At the height of its cutesy-goth aesthetic, Soul Eater follows the story of students at Death Weapon Meister Academy who possess the ability to either transform into a special weapon or wield one. The protagonist, Maka Albarn, is partnered with her closest companion, Soul Eater, who takes the form of a comically oversized scythe.

One of the many unforgettable duos in the show perfectly embodies the aesthetic of the mid-2000s, making it a must-see for fans of My Chemical Romance.

5. Blue Lock (2022-Present)

Isagi from Blue Lock
Crunchyroll

Despite not being underrated in the truest sense, Blue Lock, one of the popular sports anime, may have been overlooked by those solely seeking intricate battles.

Isagi and the rest of the Blue Lock candidates engage in showdowns that are on par with any intense stand-offs seen in Shonen. Their abilities are extraordinary, their tactics are bold, and all of it is beautifully depicted through stunning animation.

Hajime no Ippo (2000-2014)

IMDb

It’s hard to find someone who doesn’t enjoy a compelling boxing story. In Hajime no Ippo, we follow Ippo, a reserved high school student who uses combat sports as a means to conquer constant bullying and his own shyness. His path to success has its ups and downs, mirroring the challenges faced by any iconic athlete on their road to greatness.

Hajime no Ippo serves as a reminder that life is more like a marathon than a sprint, and that the journey itself can be just as rewarding as the end goal. Be warned, watching Ippo may leave you feeling the urge to put on boxing gloves before too long.

3. Dororo (2019)

IMDb

Dororo is an enthralling Shonen anime that chronicles the journey of a disfigured ronin named Hyakkimaru. After receiving a miraculous healing following an injury, he sets out on a new path in life. Determined to reclaim his stolen limbs, he enlists the help of Dororo and together they embark on a quest to hunt down the demons responsible.

Despite never truly making a breakthrough once Tanjiro joined the Demon Slayer Corps, Dororo was consistently overshadowed by Demon Slayer. Nevertheless, it serves as the perfect distraction while we eagerly await the release of Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle.

World Trigger (2014-2022)

IMDb

A mysterious portal summons unpredictable beings called Neighbors who are only vulnerable to technology from their own dimension. Several years after the initial encounters, Kuga, a descendant of a Neighbor, is covertly attending school in our world.

The need to keep his existence a secret is crucial, as it ultimately plays a role in achieving peace for both parties. World Trigger, produced by Toei Animation, the same studio responsible for popular series One Piece and Dragon Ball, had the potential to become a huge success, but unfortunately fell short.

Vinland Saga (2019-2023)

Thorfinn from Vinland Saga
Netflix

The Viking way of revenge. Initially, Thorfinn plans to avenge his father’s death, but his journey takes many twists and turns, including slavery, voyages by boat, and building a family of his own.

The debut season of Vinland Saga is created by Wit Studio, the same company responsible for the first three installments of Attack on Titan. The transition to MAPPA only adds to the grandeur and scale of the story arcs. The show covers a topic rarely explored in the anime world, making it a must-watch for audiences.

Some of the most underrated Shonen series are included in that list.

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Kagurabachi Chapter 45: The Locations of the Previous Enchanted Blade Users and Chihiro’s Next PlansThe latest chapter of Kagurabachi, chapter 45, was made available on Monday, August 19, 2024, at 12 am JST in Weekly Shonen Jump issue #38. In this chapter, Chihiro Rokuhira discloses his upcoming plans for the stolen Enchanted Blades. The Enten-user informs Hiyuki and the rest of the group that Hakuri’s Storehouse power will be crucial to his strategy.The previous chapter concluded the Rakuzaichi arc and introduced the Kamunabi arc, as Chihiro Rokuhira made the decision to join the Kamunabi forces. His main goal was to uncover the truth about the Enchanted Blades and the secrets that his father, Kunishige Rokuhira, had kept from him.Kagurabachi Chapter 45: Chihiro and Hakuri Regain Consciousness After the Rakuzaichi IncidentThe latest installment of Kagurabachi, entitled “What Comes Next” and found in chapter 45, opens with the leader of the Hishaku discussing his future strategy with a fellow member of the organization. He is confident that his plan has unfolded as intended, with the Shinuchi heading towards the Kamunabi. The other individual agrees with the Hishaku boss and eagerly awaits his directives.Upon waking up a day after their visit to the Rakuzaichi, Chihiro and Hakuri find Shiba and Hiyuki playing a video game. Hiyuki informs them that they have been waiting for their return for quite some time. As mentioned in Kagurabachi chapter 45, Chihiro and Hakuri had fallen asleep from exhaustion shortly after returning from the Rakuzaichi building.The Enten user learns that Shiba has not informed Hiyuki or Tafuku about his past as a Kamunabi user. In the meantime, Char shares with Chihiro and Hakuri that Yuu Inazuma has expressed his appreciation for rescuing his sister. Similarly, Hiyuki is relieved that all the individuals are out of harm’s way.Chihiro and Hakuri wake up after the Rakuzaichi incident (Image via Shueisha)Hiyuki believes that it is the responsibility of the Kamunabi to protect the civilians, but they lack the courage to confront evil. Additionally, she acknowledges that the success of their mission would not have been possible without the assistance of Chihiro and Hakuri, who were able to prevent anyone from escaping.In the 45th chapter of Kagurabachi, Chihiro inquires about Enten from Hiyuki. The wielder of the Flame Bone passes the sword to Chihiro, but also mentions that she has left the Shinuchi in the care of her colleagues. Hiyuki explains that she must bring Chihiro to the higher authorities of Kamunabi.Hiyuki, as seen in the chapter (Image via Shueisha)At the same time, Shiba inquires of Chihiro if he is satisfied with the Kamunabi’s possession of Shinuchi, despite being aware of the Hishaku boss’ intentions. Chihiro reassures him that he has thoroughly considered all aspects. Shiba understands Chihiro’s apprehension, but advises him not to act hastily in his next move.According to Shiba, the Hishaku organization has spent the past three years strategizing their actions. Lending the Shinuchi Enchanted Blade to Kamunabi was a deliberate move on their part. Therefore, Shiba anticipates that their next plan will likely involve attempting to steal the blade from Kamunabi’s facility.Shiba advises Chihiro in Kagurabachi chapter 45 (Image via Shueisha)Despite his doubts, he considers if there are alternative methods to combat it without aligning with Kamunabi. Nevertheless, Shiba is resolute in reminding Hiyuki that the agreement has been finalized. In chapter 45 of Kagurabachi, Tafuku mentions that the decision to either seal or wield the Shinuchi blade lies with the higher authorities.He believes that Kamunabi might be enticed to utilize the blade as a means to counter Hishaku’s danger. Nevertheless, Chihiro is reminded of his father’s caution that Shinuchi must never be utilized under any circumstances.As a result, he contemplates if there is a means to prevent Kamunabi from having to resort to using the blade. 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In that instant, Hakuri has an epiphany that recovering the blades would enable the mighty Kamunabi sorcerers to come back from their position and enhance the protection of all individuals.The Kamunabi higher-ups, as seen in Kagurabachi chapter 45 (Image via Shueisha)He is in agreement with Chihiro’s plan and encourages him to meet with the previous owners of the Enchanted Blade. However, Hiyuki cautions them that it will not be a simple task as the Kamunabi higher-ups will judge them based on their character and reliability. They may not be willing to take the risk, especially since Hakuri comes from the Sazanami clan. This could result in a harsh punishment, potentially even a death sentence.As a result, the Flame Bone user believes it is necessary to demonstrate their determination to the higher authorities. Chapter 45 of Kagurabachi concludes with Chihiro Rokuhira’s arrival at the headquarters of the Kamunabi organization to meet with their senior officials.Kagurabachi chapter 44 full highlightsOne Piece chapter 1123 highlightsMasashi Kishimoto joins Horikoshi in Kagurabachi appreciation with a heartfelt recommendation for volume 3Kagurabachi manga gets English print in Fall 2024Kagurabachi becomes the first major shonen series to receive manga animation in English Edited by Apratim Chakraborty

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