Top Anime Of 2023: Must-See Series & Hidden Gems

Hey anime fans! Let's take a look back at 2023, a year packed with incredible anime. From continuing sagas to brand new series, there was something for everyone. Get ready to explore the best anime that 2023 had to offer, including some hidden gems you might have missed.

Continuing Series That Dominated 2023

Many established anime series continued their runs in 2023, delivering more of what fans loved. These series were incredibly hype.

Attack on Titan: The Final Season Part 3

Okay, guys, the end is finally here (or, well, was here in 2023!). "Attack on Titan" wrapped up its epic journey with the final part of its final season. After years of twists, turns, and shocking revelations, we finally got to see how Eren's story concludes. The animation was top-notch, the soundtrack was as epic as ever, and the emotional impact was undeniable. Whether you loved the ending or hated it (and let's be honest, there are strong opinions on both sides!), you can't deny the cultural phenomenon that "Attack on Titan" became. The animation quality remained consistently high, a testament to the dedication of the production team. Each battle sequence was a visual masterpiece, and the character expressions conveyed the immense emotional weight of the story. The soundtrack, as always, amplified the intensity of every scene, making the viewing experience even more immersive. Moreover, the final season delves deeper into the complexities of war, morality, and the cyclical nature of hatred, prompting viewers to contemplate the true meaning of freedom and the sacrifices required to achieve it. Eren Yeager's transformation from a determined young boy to a conflicted and morally ambiguous figure reached its climax, challenging viewers to question their own perceptions of justice and righteousness. The intricate plot threads woven throughout the series converged in a dramatic and unforgettable conclusion, leaving a lasting impact on the anime landscape and solidifying "Attack on Titan" as a modern classic. The series also explored themes of identity, nationalism, and the consequences of unchecked power, providing a rich tapestry of narrative layers for viewers to unravel and dissect. As the characters grappled with their past traumas and the weight of their responsibilities, their personal growth and development became integral to the overall narrative arc, adding depth and resonance to their actions and decisions.

Demon Slayer: Swordsmith Village Arc

"Demon Slayer" continued its reign with the "Swordsmith Village Arc." Tanjiro's journey to become a Hashira continues, and this arc introduced us to new and interesting characters, along with some seriously intense battles. The animation, as always, was breathtaking, and the story kept us hooked. For those who love Demon Slayer this arc was amazing. The dazzling visuals and fluid animation, trademark features of the series, were elevated to new heights, immersing viewers in a vibrant and dynamic world. Each fight scene was a spectacle of choreography and special effects, showcasing the unique abilities and fighting styles of the characters. The introduction of new characters, such as Mitsuri Kanroji, the Love Hashira, and Muichiro Tokito, the Mist Hashira, added fresh dynamics to the ensemble cast, enriching the narrative with their distinct personalities and backstories. Tanjiro's unwavering determination to protect his sister Nezuko and his relentless pursuit of vengeance against Muzan Kibutsuji continued to drive the story forward, inspiring viewers with his courage and compassion. Moreover, the arc delved deeper into the lore and history of the Demon Slayer Corps, revealing the origins of the demon-slaying techniques and the sacrifices made by previous generations of slayers. The exploration of themes such as family, loyalty, and the struggle against adversity resonated deeply with audiences, solidifying "Demon Slayer" as a cultural phenomenon. The emotional depth and character development added layers of complexity to the narrative, elevating the series beyond a simple action-adventure and establishing it as a compelling and thought-provoking work of art.

Jujutsu Kaisen Season 2

"Jujutsu Kaisen" Season 2 adapted the "Hidden Inventory / Premature Death" and "Shibuya Incident" arcs. The first half gave us a glimpse into Gojo and Geto's past, while the second half was an absolute rollercoaster of action and despair. The animation quality remained consistently high, with stunning visuals and intense fight sequences. The plot twists and emotional moments were executed masterfully, leaving viewers on the edge of their seats. The series also explored themes of friendship, sacrifice, and the consequences of power, adding depth and complexity to the narrative. The introduction of new characters and their intricate backstories further enriched the world of "Jujutsu Kaisen", providing a tapestry of interconnected relationships and motivations. Moreover, the series continued to challenge viewers with its morally ambiguous characters and thought-provoking themes, solidifying its place as one of the most compelling and impactful anime of recent years. The exploration of mental health, trauma, and the burden of responsibility added layers of emotional depth to the story, making it resonate with audiences on a personal level. The characters' struggles and triumphs served as a reflection of the human condition, inviting viewers to contemplate their own values and beliefs.

Standout New Anime Series from 2023

2023 also saw the debut of several new anime that quickly gained popularity and critical acclaim. These fresh titles were a huge hit.

Vinland Saga Season 2

Okay, so technically not a new anime, but Season 2 of "Vinland Saga" was a completely different beast from the first. Trading in the action-packed battles for a more introspective and character-driven narrative, the second season followed Thorfinn as he worked on a farm, grappling with his past and trying to find meaning in his life. It's a slow burn, but it's incredibly rewarding. The animation, while less flashy than the first season, was still beautiful and detailed, capturing the harshness and beauty of the Icelandic landscape. The characters were complex and well-developed, and the themes of redemption, forgiveness, and the search for inner peace were explored with nuance and sensitivity. The season also delved into the social and political dynamics of the time, providing a nuanced portrayal of Viking society and the clash of cultures. Thorfinn's journey of self-discovery was a central theme, as he grappled with the trauma of his past and sought to find a new path forward. The supporting characters also underwent significant development, adding depth and complexity to the narrative. Overall, "Vinland Saga Season 2" was a compelling and thought-provoking work of art that left a lasting impression on viewers. It explored the complexities of human nature and the challenges of overcoming adversity, solidifying its place as a must-watch anime series.

Heavenly Delusion

"Heavenly Delusion" was one of the most unique and intriguing anime of 2023. Set in a post-apocalyptic Japan, the story follows two groups: Maru and Kiruko, traveling across the ruined landscape in search of "Heaven," and the children living in a seemingly idyllic facility. The mystery surrounding the world and the connection between the two groups kept viewers hooked from beginning to end. The animation was stunning, with a distinctive art style that perfectly captured the eerie and unsettling atmosphere of the series. The characters were well-developed and their motivations were complex, adding depth to the narrative. The themes of survival, identity, and the search for meaning in a desolate world were explored with nuance and sensitivity. The series also incorporated elements of science fiction, horror, and mystery, creating a unique and captivating blend of genres. The plot twists and revelations kept viewers on the edge of their seats, and the ending left a lasting impression. Overall, "Heavenly Delusion" was a thought-provoking and visually stunning anime that challenged viewers to contemplate the nature of reality and the human condition.

Oshi no Ko

"Oshi no Ko" took the anime world by storm with its dark and twisted take on the idol industry. When a doctor is reborn as one of his favorite idol's twins, he discovers the dark secrets and cutthroat nature of the entertainment world. The series is a fascinating blend of mystery, drama, and suspense, with compelling characters and a gripping storyline. The animation was vibrant and eye-catching, perfectly capturing the glitz and glamour of the idol world. The characters were complex and their motivations were often shrouded in mystery, adding depth to the narrative. The themes of fame, identity, and the exploitation of youth were explored with unflinching honesty. The series also delved into the psychological toll of the entertainment industry, highlighting the pressures and sacrifices that idols often face. The plot twists and revelations kept viewers guessing, and the ending left a lasting impression. Overall, "Oshi no Ko" was a thought-provoking and captivating anime that challenged viewers to question the true cost of fame and the dark side of the entertainment world.

Hidden Gems You Might Have Missed

Not every great anime gets the attention it deserves. Here are a few underrated anime from 2023 that are worth checking out.

Skip and Loafer

"Skip and Loafer" is a heartwarming and charming slice-of-life anime about a bright and ambitious girl named Mitsumi who moves from the countryside to a high school in Tokyo. The series follows her as she navigates the challenges of city life, makes new friends, and learns to adapt to a new environment. The animation is simple but effective, capturing the warmth and charm of the story. The characters are well-developed and their relationships are genuine and heartwarming. The themes of friendship, self-discovery, and the importance of embracing one's individuality are explored with sensitivity and humor. The series also provides a realistic portrayal of high school life, capturing the everyday struggles and triumphs of its characters. Overall, "Skip and Loafer" is a delightful and uplifting anime that is sure to leave viewers with a smile on their faces.

My Home Hero

"My Home Hero" is a suspenseful and thrilling anime about a father who accidentally kills his daughter's abusive boyfriend and must protect his family from the yakuza. The series is a gripping tale of love, sacrifice, and the lengths to which a parent will go to protect their children. The animation is dark and gritty, perfectly capturing the tense and dangerous atmosphere of the story. The characters are complex and their motivations are often morally ambiguous, adding depth to the narrative. The themes of justice, revenge, and the consequences of violence are explored with unflinching honesty. The series also delves into the psychological toll of living in constant fear, highlighting the impact of trauma on its characters. The plot twists and revelations keep viewers on the edge of their seats, and the ending leaves a lasting impression. Overall, "My Home Hero" is a thought-provoking and captivating anime that challenges viewers to contemplate the nature of morality and the true meaning of justice.

Final Thoughts

2023 was a fantastic year for anime, with a wide variety of genres and styles to choose from. Whether you're a fan of action, drama, comedy, or slice-of-life, there was something for everyone. So, what were your favorite anime of 2023? Let us know in the comments below!