Top Ten Anime of Fall 2023

This is VERY late due to the enjoyable December holiday break. Still, I have to do this list before I get to my 2023 best anime. And, this list is pretty strong. Let’s begin, shall we?

Goblin Slayer

At number ten, I have “Goblin Slayer”. The second season is very much anticipated, and it took years for it to come into fruition. Thankfully, we have more pure high fantasy, dungeon crawls, and organized violence as our favorite armored silver ranked slayer has to offer. I’m a HUGE fan of purely fantasy anime. And, this won’t be the last one on my list. Read on.

The Girlfriends

At number nine, I have “The 100 Girlfriends Who Really, Really, Really, Really, Really Love You”. That title is a mouthful, and Rentarou has his hands full trying to keep his upcoming 100 girlfriends alive. You heard that right he WANTS to keep them alive. Because of some fated mistake, instead of having one soulmate in life, Rentarou has 100. But, it gets more complicated than that. If he doesn’t make these soulmates his girlfriends, they end up dying. That’s a morbid premise, but the anime is quite over the top hilarious with that premise. This is the only anime on my list where I get to laugh out loud several times EVERY episode. The anime is so absurd that it is so funny.

Fuuko and Andy

At number eight, I have “Undead Unluck”. I have a soft spot for consecutive cour anime, and ‘Undead Unlock’ is one of a couple here on my list. Regardless of episode count, this is a pretty good anime to make my list. Undead or ‘Andy’ is out to find a way to end his immortal life. In comes Fuuko with her unluck power that could possibly allow Andy to die. The catch? The more Fuuko has an emotional attachement to the individual who touches her bare skin, the worse the unluck unleashed. I’m talking literal fire and brimstone from the sky disasters. So, Andy decides that in order to ensure that he dies in spite of his insane regenerative abilities, he will make Fuuko fall in love with him. He hopes this will truly end his immortal life. It’s another morbid premise that combines with excellent action, and comedy in it. I seem to have an affinity for this kind of anime. Hmm…

The Forgers

At number seven, I have “Spy Family”. The Forgers are back for their second season. This masterpiece by Wit Studio, and Cloverworks deserves all the attention it’s getting. Also, I love it when mama Yor gets to show off her ‘killer instinct’. There is a lot of it in this season. There’s a lot of super spy Loid in this season too. And yet, it all looks like a set-up to the movie that should be available in some areas by now. I’m already looking forward to the third season.

Senkuu

At number six, I have “Dr. Stone”. Senkuu and the Nation of Science are back to restore humanity to its technological present. This third season is as good as the second season. This is the second cour of the third season, and I’m fully satisfied that Ibara got what he had coming. He tried to outsmart Senkuu, but failed. This anime has a perfect mix of action, comedy, great animation, AND scientific knowledge that you can actually use as a sample in the classroom. Imagine a science class that uses “Dr. Stone” for its lessons. I can imagine it.

The Eminence in Shadow

At number five, I have “The Eminence in Shadow”. After a very entertaining first season, Cid/Shadow is back with Shadow Garden for the second season. The anime starts off strong at the gate, and provides everyone with more than enough isekai entertainment. By season’s end, Cid has a new challenge in a very familiar place. I suppose it was necessary considering the premise of existing alternate realities now revealed in the second season. What does this mean for Cid, and his hare—Shadow Garden moving forward? Let’s see what happens.

Maomao

At number four, I have “The Apothecary Diaries”. I gambled on this anime because it was from OLM studios. You know, the studio responsible for”‘Summertime Rende“‘? This was worth the gamble, and it has two consecutive cours. Maomao is the main character in this historical fiction anime that is set during the Chinese Imperial Era. Maomao is a potion maker/poison tester who gets sold into the Rear Palace of the emperor. This sets her on an adventure full of intrigue, and manipulation in the politics of the Rear Palace. This is a procedural anime with there being a mystery every episode. However, there is an even bigger mystery unravelling that might just lead to the core of succession to the throne. If anything, the biggest strenght of this anime is Maomao herself who is the perfect combination of brains, and beauty. Why do the brains come before the beauty? Watch the anime to find out.

Atom and Uran

At number three, I have “Plut”‘. If you’re an Astroboy fan, then you are in for a treat. This anime adapts “The Greatest Robot in the World” storyline from the original “Astroboy” run in the 1980s. It does so with hour long eight episodes. Unlike ‘Astroboy’, ‘Pluto’ takes a more serious tone, and creates a lot of emotional hooks to keep you interested. There is a lot of human interest in this science fiction anime that even makes the robots more human, AND humane than actual humans. You might want to watch the last two episodes of “Astrobo”‘ aka “The Greatest Robot in the World” to review the basic plot. You don’t need to though. ‘Pluto’ can stand on its own merits.

Jujutsu Kaizen

At number two, I have “Jujutsu Kaize”‘. For the second straight season, ‘Jujutsu Kaizen’ lands at number two. The previous cour came out during the summer season, and this continues into the fall. This is one of studio MAPPA’s babies, and it’s a hell of a show. Not only do we get some backstory on Gojou, but we also get the much anticipated Shibuya Arc. The Shibuya Arc was so influential that the Japanese Government shut down Shibuya for a while BECAUSE of what was being shown in this anime. Talk about pop culture having influence in real life, right? The third season has already been announced, and THAT promises to be better than this one. With all that is excellent with “Jujutsu Kaize”, Gojou and company still don’t have enough magic to overcome the number one anime of the season…

Frieren

At number one, I have “Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End”. MADHOUSE. IS. BACK. What a way to be back on top playing with the anime big boys. This is high fantasy at its best. Would you believe me if I told you that it’s also slice of life? What if it’s also the chillest anime of the season? The animation is flawless, and very crisp from cell to cell. The storytelling is heartwarming, and heartwrenching at the same time. I knew that the anime would be good. But, I didn’t know it would be THIS GOOD. To add, it’s also a back-to-back two cour anime. That means this is spiliing over to the winter season of 2024. Is this a good thing? Well, duh? OF COURSE IT IS! ”Frieren Beyond: Journey’s End” is not just eye candy. There are deep themes here that include (but not limited to) immortality, the cycle of life, and mundane magic-using. Just like how people underestimate Frieren, you can choose to underestimate this anime at your peril. There is a lot of hidden magic in this anime still waiting to be unleashed.

So, that’s my list. Agree with me? Disagree? Let me know in the comments.

Top Ten Anime of Summer 2023

The summer season is top heavy with some great returning and new anime. That doesn’t mean that I didn’t get my fill of anime to watch. In fact, there was more than enough anime this season to keep me entertained. So, here is my list.

Anne and Helck

At number ten, I have ‘Helck’. This anime adaptation of the manga is a long time coming, and fans of the manga will surely appreciate this anime adaptation. Helck is a human who wants to be the next Demon King. Sounds a bit off, right? However, he has a gripe with the human kingdom, and that is the reason why he wants to be king: to overcome the humans. Of course, he has to prove himself to the demon populace including Vamirio aka Anne. Not only does Helck win the demon populace over, but he also is slowly winning over Anne’s trust. ‘Helck’ has a good mix of action, comedy, and fantasy. It can be a bit over the top most times, but that’s part of this anime’s charm.

Dark Gathering Promotional Poster

At number nine, I have ‘Dark Gathering’. This is from OLM studios which is the same studio that came up with ‘Summertime Render’. Yayoi is a young girl who hunts the supernatural. Keitarou is an older boy who sees the supernatural. Eiko is around the same age as Keitarou who is cursed (like Keitarou) by the supernatural. Together they form a Scooby Doo-like Mystery Machine group that hunt down real supernatural threats. ‘Dark Gathering’ is primarily a horror anime with a dash of comedy. Even so, the comedy is rather dark. Yayoi is a nice protective friend to be around so long as you can accept her creepiness. This is as good a supernatural anime to watch this season as it gets.

Oliver, Nanao and their classmates of the Kimberly Magic Academy

At number eight, I have ‘Reign of the Seven Spellblades’. Think of Harry Potter, but with swords. That is the backdrop of this anime. The central characters are Oliver with his secrect mission, and Nanao a samurai with a unique ability. Together with their classmates, Michela, Katie, Pete, and Guy, the group go through the trials of studying, and surviving in Kimberly Magic Academy. Adding to the story are the mysterious seven spellblades which are regarded as the most powerful sword spells in all magic. Two of the characters mentioned know one each of these spells so far. Which ones? Watch the anime to find out.

(From Left to Right) Shizuku, Aya and Tsugaru

At number seven, I have ‘Undead Girl Murder Farce’. Boy did this anime slip under my initial viewing list. I was lucky enough to catch up with two episodes out, and it didn’t disappoint. Imagine a world where supernatural entities exist in the Victorian age. Now put three supernatural investigators from Japan into the mix. The lead character, Aya, is an immortal detective with only her head. Her assistant is Shizuku who is more bodyguard than maid. Then add Tsugaru, an immortal near invincible Oni to the mix, and you have a pretty entertaining mystery supernatural anime. ‘Undead Girl Murder Farce’ is a smart enough anime to make my summer top ten.

Kudou and Miyo

At number six, I have ‘My Happy Marriage’. I gambled on watching this anime. I rarely watch historical fiction. More so if the anime is romantic historical fiction. I’m happy I have the ‘three episode rule’ because this anime took off with the second episode for me. The kicker for me that made me continue watching ‘My Happy Marriage’ is that it has supernatural elements that weave seamlessly into the historical fiction. Some critics say that Kudou is just too perfect of a character. He’s not. He has his flaws though they are not prominent. Miyo on the other hand has so many red flags that her relationship with Kudou sort of balances out. Though, the central part of the story revolves around the mystery of Miyo’s parentage, and lack of supernatural ability…to a point. What do I mean? I can’t say much without spoiling it for those who haven’t seen the anime yet. I will say this, don’t let one of the best new anime of the summer slip through your fingers.

(From Left to Right) Yahiko, Sanosuke, Kenshin and Kaoru

At number five, I have ‘Rurouni Kenshin’. It didn’t take a lot to watch this remake by Liden Films of a seminal, and classic anime from the 90s. Add a stellar seiyuu cast which includes Rie Takahashi, and this was a no-brainer for me. It’s not just the nostalgia…it’s the message. Anti-war, kindness over force, change for the better…all of the above and more are the reasons why this anime is top notch for me. Of course, when you hear Kenshin say ‘Oro’, and see him being ‘bullied by Kaoru, you tend to realize that there is more to life than swordfighting. Oro?

Akira and Shuzuka

At number four, I have ‘Zom 100: Bucketlist of the Dead’. This is the best new anime of the summer in my list. It’s about zombies, and the apocalypse that follows. The irony in this anime is apparent. Akira is a zombie slave in the corporation he works for prior to the zombie apocalypse. It is only during the apocalypse that he decides to live his life by coming up with a list of 100 things he wants to do before he becomes a zombie. The anime is full of dark humor, and can be pretty morbid most times. The first anime of Bug Films hits a home run, and this elevates expectations for other properties. There’s a live action movie of this that covers around untile episode seven of this anime. Keep going or you’ll miss Beatrix. If you don’t, then you’ll really be brain dead.

Jobless Reincarnation Promotional Poster

At number three, I have ‘Jobless Reincarnation’ aka ‘Mushoku Tensei’. I’m a bit disappointed that this anime isn’t higher on my list. It’s still pretty good, but not as good as the first season. For one, the second season has a standard opening sequence unlike the first season which incorporates the opening song to the introduction of the story. That, and the fact that we see a lot of ’emo’ Rudeus which can be a drag sometimes, and number three is just the right spot for ‘Jobless Reincarnation’. Highlights are the meeting of Sylphy, and Rudeus (somewhat), and the investigation of the mystery of the mass teleportation in season one. For ecchi fans, there’s enough of Elinalise Dragonroad to go around, if you know what I mean.

Jujutsu Kaizen Promotional Image

At number two, I have ‘Jujutsu Kaizen.’ The arc that everybody has been waiting to see is here: the history of Gojou, and Getou’s relationship. Also, you get to see Gojou pre-blindfold which I’m sure will make feminine anime fans swoon. The second season is getting better and better, and we are blessed with a two consecutive cour season. The Shibuya arc is already ongoing. So, if you want to see just how much MORE Gojou is op, here’s your chance. Not to mention, we get to see Mei Mei with voice actress Kotono Mitsuishi. ❤

Ichigo Kurosaki

At number one, and the best anime of the summer, I have ‘Bleach: Thousand Year Blood War’. We don’t see a lot of Ichigo, but we do see a lot of the other characters around. This is the strength of ‘Bleach’. This anime has not let up since its return with beautiful animation, excellent storytelling, and well-paced action. Too bad this season is only one cour long. I’m not sure if it’ll be the number one anime of the year with shows like Oshi No Ko going toe-to-toe with it. That’s a discussion for another time. For now, ‘Bleach’ is king of the summer hill. Engage Ichigo at your own peril.

So that’s my list. Agree with me? Disagree with me? Let me know in the comments.

My Best Anime of 2022

So here we are at the beginning of a new year, and in the middle of the first month. Still good enough time for me to come up with my top ten anime of 2022. If you’re curious about my top fall anime of 2022, you can find it here. There are a couple on that fall list that make it to my Best Anime of the Year list. Which ones exactly? Read on to find out…

Mizuki, Takina, Chisato and Kurumi

At number ten, I have ‘Lycoris Recoil’. A lot of people will remember this year for A-1 pictures because of ‘Kaguya Sama’. That anime is not on my list which would probably get the ire of many slice of life fans. ‘Lycoris Recoil’ is good enough to make my top ten, and as I always say, original anime have a special place in my heart. That’s not to say Chisato, Takina, and the rest of the staff of Cafe LycoReco are not entertaining. In fact, this dramedy of an anime is quite good, and reminds me a lot of how I was surprised with ’86‘. The second season is imminent, and it’s more of a question of ‘when’ than ‘how’. I’m looking forward to seeing more of Chisato dodging bullets with her spanking new heart.

Tengen Uzui and Tanjiro Kamado

At number nine, I have ‘Kimetsu No Yaiba’ aka ‘Demonslayer’. Arguably the anime with the best fight scene of the year, Ufotable continues not to disappoint with ‘Demonslayer’. My biggest complaint with this anime is that it only has one cour as compared to the first season’s double cour. That’s probably one of the reasons why Tanjiro and the rest of the demonslayers make it only to number nine on my list. With the new year, we are getting a season three of ‘Demonslayer’, and my hope is it holds up more in storytelling to season one with the much improved animation of season two. Let’s see what happens as Tanjiro tries to reforge his broken sword.

Marin and Gojo

At number eight, I have ‘My Dress-Up Darling’. One of my surprise anime of 2022, I took a risk on this, and it lived up to the hype. Marin and Gojo have a very loyal manga following, and I’m glad to join them in the anime. This is yet another beautiful anime by Cloverworks which continues to impress with the eclectic nature of the properties under its wings. This romcom is a cosplayer, and phtographer’s dream come true. It’s also one of those anime wherein the good guy attracts the best girl of the 2022. Gojo, and Marin are lucky to have each other in their lives. How they decide to properly express their feelings towards each other is something that many fans are looking forward to happening…while getting a ton of laughs along the way.

Kongming and Eiko

At number seven, I have ‘Ya Boy Kongming!’. When you combine an isekai with an idol anime, this is what you get. The mentor-mentee (father-daughter?) relationship of Kongming, and Eiko is just downright inspiring to see. Kongming uses his knowledge of battle tactics ala Sun Tzu to help Eiko realize her dream of becoming a successful performer. The road to stardom is wrought with many challenges, and Kongming has so far provided the answers to each one of them Eiko faces. Needless to say, ‘Ya Boy Kongming!’ has one of the best set of anime songs of the year. Just like ‘My Dress-Up Darling’, I’m looking forward to seeing Eiko succeed in achieving her dream.

Mio, Shinpei, and Ushio

At number six, I have ‘Summertime Render’. Now this is one anime that was on my radar, but still caught me by surprise. Composed of two consecutive cours, this masterpiece from OLM will reward you for sticking around. It’s not that it didn’t have good episodes to start. It’s that in order to get to the better episodes you had to endure the good ones. Sounds confusing, right? Well, the biggest initial concern with me was that Shinpei was a bit wimpy at the beginning. It took me time to understand that it was all part of the beautiful development of the character into manhood. Albeit, man enough to be a match for the alpha female that is Ushio. If you like time travel, and myster anime, then this is the best one of the year for me.

Reg, Riko, and Nanachi

At number five, I have ‘Made in Abyss’. It took five years for a second season of this anime to come out. Though a movie came in between, I needed a better fix deep into the Abyss with Riko, Reg, and Nanachi. Is it possible for the second season to actually be better than the first, and yet ‘Made in Abyss’ will most likely not win as many awards in the second season? I think that’s going to be the case. There are just so many excellent anime this year. That shouldn’t discredit the excellence that you find in the best Kinema Citrus anime of the year. There is news circulating that a new season is coming up, and I’m wondering how that will happen with just a few chapters left from the source material to animate. ‘Made in Abyss’ will make you sad, and sadder some more before providing you the hope it shares by season’s end. It’s pretty standard by now for the adventures of Riko as she searchers for her mom. Here’s hoping she finds her alive with a little help from Reg, and Nanachi.

Bojji, and Kage

At numbe four, I have ‘Ousama Ranking’ aka ‘Ranking of Kings’. Just like Cloverworks, Wit Studio has shown with this tale of deaf-dumb Bojji that it has a wide range of animation approaches. I’ve been rooting for Bojji since 2021, and this has carried over to last year. More so, the second cour of ‘Ousama Ranking’ puts Bojji and Kage in a more favorable position than the first. Bojji is really a character to my mind that’s worth rooting for. Sure Bojji is a prince, but that just underscores how misereable, and sad his live is to begin. There is no better anime on my list to inspire you in achieving greater heights in spite of overwhelming challenges than this one. Long live Bojji!!!

Pochita, and Denji

At number three, I have ‘Chainsaw Man’. Highly anticipated, and highly hyped, this anime lived up to the expectations. Though there’s something about studio MAPPA and its penchance for supernatural anime. Is it a coincidence that they made both ‘Chainsaw Man’ and ‘Jujutsu Kaizen‘? I think not. The big difference between Denji, and Itadori is that Denji is a true blue antihero. I’ve said this before already, Denji’s needs are very basic: food, women, and lodging. Can you blame him though? With an upbringing like his, it’s no wonder Makima can manipulate him the way she does. This also has my vote for best music of 2022. Of all the thirteen songs there is not a one worth ignoring. It’s just a question of choosing your favorite. No word yet on season two, but that is a sure as Reze appearing soon.

Yor, Anya, and Loid Forger

At number two, I have ‘Spy Family’. The Forger family was my frontrunner to be my anime of the year for 2022 but fell a bit short. Not its own fault, but rather due to the surprise, and excellence of what is at my number one spot. For now, let’s focus on ‘Spy Family’ which is a masterpiece of both Cloverworks (My Dress-Up Darling), and Wit Studio (Ousama Ranking). It’s really unfair to have a version of Bojji in Anya, Marin in Yor to combine with the suave super spy that is Loid Forger. There is no greater family anime on my list. There’s already a new season set for this year to go along with a movie. More Spy Family is always good. Also, more Anya means more peanuts.

Ichigo

At numer one, I have ‘Bleach: Thousand year Blood War’. A while a go I mentioned that ‘Made in Abyss’ took five years for the second season to come out. In the case of ‘Bleach’, it took studio Pierrot over ten years to come up with the latter portion of Ichigo’s saga. I was just happy to have this anime back with little expectation of it being good. Surprise, surprise…it has gone well beyond what I expected. Cinematic animation. Excellent Storytelling. Hightened Anticipation. Whatever those creators from Pierrot ate while making ‘Bleach’, keep feeding it to them. And, it appears that the best is yet to come. This makes ‘Bleach’ my Best Anime of 2022.

Do you agree with me? Disagree with me? Tell me what you think in the comments.