As we delve into 2024, anime enthusiasts have been treated to a plethora of outstanding new series. Among the standout titles are Solo Leveling and Dandadan, both poised to establish themselves as enduring franchises in the anime landscape.
Adding to the buzz is Dragon Ball Daima, which has generated considerable conversation among fans. While some critics draw comparisons to Dragon Ball GT, this latest installment retains Akira Toriyama’s unique charm. Though it wasn’t initially conceived with a sequel in mind, the possibility of a movie or additional season remains a tantalizing prospect.
Returning favorites like Jujutsu Kaisen and Demon Slayer have captivated audiences with their sequels, leaving viewers eager for more content. Yet, beyond these major hits, 2024 has witnessed many exceptional anime series that deserve recognition. Below is a list of some hidden gems that may have been overshadowed yet are certainly worth your time.
11. A Sign of Affection
A Sign of Affection is a charming adaptation of the acclaimed manga by Suu Morishita, featured in Kodansha’s Dessert shoujo magazine since 2019. It tells the story of Yuki Mitose, a hearing-impaired university student who leads a quiet life until she meets Itsuomi Nagi, a friend of her best friend. While Nagi is well-versed in many languages, Japanese sign language is not among them. Their contrasting worlds begin to converge as they develop a close bond, addressing important themes like accessibility, akin to A Silent Voice, albeit with a lighter tone.
10. Sengoku Youko
Sengoku Youko transports viewers to the Sengoku period of Japan (1454-1568) with a fictional twist. This adventure follows Tama, a yokai fox, and her brother Jinka as they traverse the countryside to eliminate evil entities, both human and supernatural. Along their journey, they encounter Shunsuke Hyodo, a samurai-in-training, and Shakuyaku, a young girl with extraordinary abilities resulting from a monk’s experiment. This series, animated by White Fox, is crafted by Satoshi Murakami, known for his previous work in Planet With.
9. Orb: On the Movements of the Earth
Orb draws inspiration from Copernican astronomy, set in a reimagined 15th century Poland, where scientific thought is deemed heretical under religious oppression. The narrative centers on Rafal, a young astronomer assisting Hubert in exploring Earth’s movements. Initially filled with scholarly optimism, their work is jeopardized when the Inquisition intervenes. Rafal’s courageous decision to continue the research alone, despite the inherent dangers, makes for a thought-provoking viewing experience that intertwines philosophy, science, and politics.
8. Spice and Wolf: Merchant Meets the Wise Wolf
The beloved franchise Spice and Wolf sees a fresh adaptation more than a decade after its initial introduction. The story follows Kraft Lawrence, a traveling merchant in a medieval European-inspired setting, who dreams of establishing his own shop. His journey leads him to meet Holo, a wolf deity of harvest, dismayed by humanity’s neglect of their deities due to agricultural advancements. Holo’s decision to accompany Lawrence adds depth to this rich narrative, which excels in character development and economic themes. A second season is already in the works.
7. Go! Go! Loser Ranger
Go! Go! Loser Ranger takes a comedic turn on the Power Rangers trope. In this series, defeated by the Dragon Keepers, foot soldiers are coerced into reenacting their humiliating defeat for public entertainment. Fed up with this degradation, Foot Soldier D secretly allies with the Keepers to exact his revenge. This unique parody has garnered acclaim and is set for a new season in April 2025.
6. Girls Band Cry
Girls Band Cry is an engaging original story that delves into the aspirations of high school student Nina Iseri, who harbors dreams of joining the music scene while striving for university admission. Her life takes a surprising turn one fateful day when she encounters the talented guitarist Momoka Kawaragi, leading to an impromptu street performance and the formation of a band. This Toei Animation project promises an inspiring narrative filled with ambition and dedication, appealing to fans of Bocchi the Rock!.
5. Elusive Samurai
Elusive Samurai engages viewers with a historical narrative featuring Tokiyuki Hojo, a real nobleman of 12th century Japan whose family is slain by the Ashikaga clan. The plot unfolds as the priest Yorishige Suwa convinces Tokiyuki to embrace his destiny as a hero. Despite its historical backdrop, the series incorporates elements of humor and adventure, capturing a unique storytelling approach that resonated well in Japan, boosting manga sales despite lacking international recognition.
4. Twilight Out of Focus
Twilight Out of Focus takes a distinctive approach by weaving together the stories of three different couples, tackling mature themes such as discrimination and sexual assault. This BL anime navigates the complex landscape of romantic relationships among gay individuals, providing a nuanced exploration of love without relying on dramatic twists, akin to Sasaki to Miyano.
3. Sword Art Online Alternative: Gun Gale Online
The highly anticipated return of Sword Art Online Alternative introduces new characters and stories in a VR game setting. Following the infamous events of Sword Art Online, societal fears surrounding VR gaming have resurfaced. Nevertheless, Karen Kohiruimaki finds her escape in Gun Gale Online, where she transforms into a formidable player. This new season stands out as an accessible entry point for newcomers, without requiring familiarity with the original series.
2. Fate/strange Fake: Whispers of Dawn
The Fate franchise continues to expand with Fate/strange Fake, an entry that serves as a standalone story for newcomers. Initially conceptualized as an April Fools’ joke, this adaptation introduces an alternate narrative involving mages and the Holy Grail War in America. The upcoming prologue film, Whispers of Dawn, sets the stage for the anime series debuting on December 31, 2024, providing an excellent introduction to the expansive Fate universe.
1. Whisper Me a Love Song
Anime fans celebrating yuri and GL themes in recent years have been delighted with numerous adaptations. Whisper Me a Love Song features high schoolers Himari Kino and Yori Asanagi, whose romance blossoms after Himari becomes enamored with Yori’s band performance on her first day of school. As Yori grapples with her own feelings, the story beautifully illustrates their connection through music. Although production challenges have arisen, this adaptation of a beloved manga in the yuri community comes highly recommended.
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