Top Anime Of 2023: Must-See Series & Hidden Gems
Hey anime lovers! 2023 was an absolutely stellar year for anime, wasn't it? We saw continuations of beloved series, the rise of some instant classics, and a whole bunch of surprises that kept us glued to our screens. So, let's dive headfirst into the best anime of 2023, highlighting the must-see series and those hidden gems you might have missed. Trust me, there's something here for everyone!
What Made 2023 a Great Year for Anime?
Okay, so what exactly made 2023 such a standout year for anime? Well, a few things really clicked. First off, the sheer variety was incredible. We had everything from intense action-packed shonen to heartwarming slice-of-life stories, mind-bending psychological thrillers, and epic fantasy adventures. No matter what genre you're into, there was definitely something to tickle your fancy. The diversity in animation styles also played a huge role. Studios really pushed the boundaries, experimenting with new techniques and delivering visuals that were just breathtaking. Think about the fluid action sequences, the incredibly detailed backgrounds, and the expressive character designs – it was all top-notch. And let's not forget the storytelling. Many series tackled complex themes and delivered narratives that were both engaging and thought-provoking. We saw characters grapple with real-world issues, explore their identities, and face seemingly impossible challenges. This depth and maturity really elevated the anime experience and made it more meaningful. Plus, the music was on point! From catchy opening themes that get stuck in your head for days to emotional soundtracks that amplify the feels, the music in these anime was just phenomenal. It really added another layer of immersion and made those key moments even more impactful. And finally, the hype! A lot of these anime generated serious buzz online, creating a sense of community and excitement among fans. Whether it was through fan theories, cosplay, or just sharing our reactions on social media, being part of the anime fandom in 2023 was an absolute blast. All these factors combined to make 2023 a truly unforgettable year for anime. So, without further ado, let's get to the list!
Must-See Anime Series of 2023
Alright, let's get to the good stuff! These are the anime series that absolutely dominated 2023 and are considered must-watches by pretty much everyone in the anime community. If you haven't seen them yet, now's the time to catch up!
Attack on Titan: The Final Season Part 3
Okay, let's be real, the Attack on Titan finale was the event of 2023 for many anime fans. After years of waiting, the epic conclusion to Eren Yeager's story finally arrived, and boy, did it deliver. Attack on Titan has always been known for its complex characters, its twisty plot, and its brutal action, and the final season definitely didn't disappoint. Seeing Eren's descent into darkness and the struggles of the Survey Corps as they tried to stop him was just heart-wrenching. The animation was absolutely stunning, especially during those intense battle scenes. WIT Studio and MAPPA really outdid themselves, bringing the manga to life in a way that was both visually spectacular and emotionally resonant. And let's not forget the music, which was as epic and impactful as ever. The soundtrack perfectly captured the mood of the series, from the soaring highs of hope to the crushing lows of despair. But what really made the Attack on Titan finale so memorable was its thematic depth. The series grappled with complex issues like war, freedom, and the cycle of hatred, and it didn't offer any easy answers. It challenged viewers to think about the consequences of their actions and the nature of good and evil. Whether you loved the ending or hated it, there's no denying that it was a powerful and thought-provoking conclusion to one of the most influential anime of all time. If you haven't experienced the emotional rollercoaster that is Attack on Titan, then you're seriously missing out. Just be prepared to have your heart broken a few times along the way.
Vinland Saga Season 2
Vinland Saga Season 2 took a drastically different turn from its action-packed first season, and honestly, it was all the better for it. Instead of focusing on Vikings raiding and pillaging, this season delved into the themes of redemption, atonement, and the search for true peace. We saw Thorfinn, now a slave on a farm, grappling with the consequences of his past actions and trying to find a new purpose in life. The slow-burn character development was just incredible. Watching Thorfinn slowly shed his thirst for revenge and learn to value human life was a truly transformative experience. The supporting characters were also fantastic, each with their own unique struggles and motivations. Einar, Thorfinn's fellow slave, provided a much-needed dose of optimism and hope, while Ketil, the kind-hearted landowner, challenged Thorfinn's preconceived notions about the world. The animation in Vinland Saga Season 2 was also top-notch. While there were fewer action scenes compared to the first season, the studio still managed to deliver some stunning visuals, especially during the farming sequences. The landscapes were beautifully rendered, and the character designs were expressive and nuanced. And let's not forget the music, which perfectly captured the somber and introspective tone of the season. The soundtrack was haunting and evocative, adding another layer of depth to the story. Overall, Vinland Saga Season 2 was a masterpiece of character-driven storytelling. It proved that anime can be both entertaining and thought-provoking, and it left a lasting impact on viewers. If you're looking for an anime that will challenge your perspectives and leave you feeling emotionally fulfilled, then Vinland Saga Season 2 is a must-watch.
Demon Slayer: Swordsmith Village Arc
Alright, let's be honest, Demon Slayer is a global phenomenon for a reason. And the Swordsmith Village Arc just continued that trend. This season ramped up the action, introduced some cool new characters, and gave us a deeper look into the world of demon slaying. The animation, as always, was absolutely breathtaking. Ufotable's signature style really shines in the fight scenes, with fluid movements, vibrant colors, and stunning visual effects. Seeing Tanjiro and his friends battle against the Upper Rank demons was just a feast for the eyes. And let's not forget the emotional moments. Demon Slayer is known for its heartwarming stories and its focus on the bonds between characters, and the Swordsmith Village Arc definitely delivered in that regard. Seeing Tanjiro's determination to protect his sister Nezuko and his unwavering loyalty to his friends was truly inspiring. The new characters introduced in this arc were also a highlight. Mitsuri Kanroji, the Love Hashira, and Muichiro Tokito, the Mist Hashira, quickly became fan favorites thanks to their unique personalities and their impressive fighting skills. And of course, the music was on point as usual. The soundtrack perfectly complemented the action and the emotion of the series, making those key moments even more impactful. Overall, the Demon Slayer: Swordsmith Village Arc was a thrilling and visually stunning addition to the Demon Slayer franchise. It's a must-watch for any fan of the series, and it's a great entry point for newcomers as well. Just be prepared to be blown away by the animation and to have your heartstrings tugged a few times.
Hidden Gems and Underrated Anime of 2023
Okay, so now that we've covered the big hitters, let's talk about some of the underrated anime of 2023 that deserve a little more love. These are the series that might have flown under the radar but are definitely worth checking out.
Heavenly Delusion
Heavenly Delusion is a post-apocalyptic sci-fi series that's both intriguing and unsettling. The story follows two separate groups of characters: one living in a seemingly utopian facility and the other journeying through a desolate wasteland infested with monsters. What makes Heavenly Delusion so compelling is its mystery. As the series progresses, you slowly start to unravel the secrets of both worlds and how they're connected. The character dynamics are also really well done. The relationships between the characters feel authentic and nuanced, and you quickly become invested in their journeys. The animation style is unique and visually striking, with a blend of traditional and digital techniques. The desolate landscapes are beautifully rendered, and the monster designs are genuinely creepy. And let's not forget the soundtrack, which is both haunting and atmospheric, perfectly capturing the mood of the series. Overall, Heavenly Delusion is a hidden gem that deserves more attention. It's a thought-provoking and visually stunning series that will keep you on the edge of your seat from beginning to end. If you're a fan of post-apocalyptic stories or sci-fi thrillers, then this is definitely one to check out.
Oshi no Ko
Oshi no Ko is a dark and twisted story about the entertainment industry, reincarnation, and revenge. It's definitely not your typical idol anime! The story follows a doctor who is reincarnated as the child of his favorite idol, Ai Hoshino. However, Ai's life is cut short when she's murdered by a stalker, and her children vow to avenge her death. Oshi no Ko is a complex and multi-layered series that explores the dark side of fame and the pressures faced by idols. It's also a story about family, grief, and the search for justice. The characters are incredibly well-developed, and you quickly become invested in their struggles and motivations. The animation style is bright and colorful, but it's juxtaposed with the dark and gritty themes of the series, creating a unique and unsettling atmosphere. And let's not forget the music, which is catchy and upbeat, but also tinged with a sense of sadness and longing. Overall, Oshi no Ko is a unique and unforgettable anime that will stay with you long after you've finished watching it. It's a must-watch for anyone who's interested in the entertainment industry or who's looking for a story that's both entertaining and thought-provoking.
Final Thoughts
So there you have it, guys! A look back at some of the best anime of 2023. From epic action series to heartwarming slice-of-life stories, 2023 had something for everyone. And hopefully, you've discovered a few new series to add to your watchlist. What were your favorite anime of 2023? Let me know in the comments below! And here's to another year of amazing anime! Cheers!