Top Anime of 2023: Most Popular Anime Of The Year

A Year of Anime Triumphs and Surprises

In the world of anime, 2023 was a standout year, marking a surge in popularity that transcended cultural boundaries. As American animation drew inspiration from innovative Japanese storytelling, the anime landscape continued to redefine narratives. This year not only brought back hits like Jujutsu Kaisen, Demon Slayer, and Vinland Saga but also introduced newcomers like Oshi No Ko, Pluto, and the inventive Scott Pilgrim adaptation by Science Saru.

Oshi No Ko: Unraveling the Idol Paradox

Runner-Up: Oshi No Ko

Step into the world of Japanese Idols with Oshi No Ko, a wild ride brought to life by DogaKobo. Beyond its stunning animation, the series follows pop idol Ai, but the plot takes a sharp turn when the life of young doctor Gorou Amamiya intertwines with Ai’s. This series, exploring the reincarnation anime trend, evolves unpredictably, becoming a viewer favorite.

Oshi No Ko’s central mystery and honest portrayal of fame’s pitfalls spark divisive conversations. Despite its short run, this impactful anime challenges viewers with its wild setup and shocking twists, offering a deeply engaging narrative. Whether you embrace its eccentricities or not, Oshi No Ko stands as one of the most unique anime series of the year.

BOCCHI THE ROCK!: Strumming Through Anxiety

Runner-Up: BOCCHI THE ROCK!

Bocchi the Rock! brings us a delightful music anime centered around Hitori Gotoh, a young woman battling severe anxiety while aspiring to shine as a guitarist. Adapting Aki Hamaji’s manga, this series stands out with its experimental visual approach, compassionate insight into anxiety, and heartwarming coming-of-age storytelling.

Unlike anime exploiting anxiety for laughs, Bocchi the Rock! roots for its protagonist’s journey of self-discovery. This series not only delivers fantastic music and genuine friendships but also surprises with vibrant aesthetic choices. In a year of blockbusters, Bocchi the Rock! shines as the little music anime that captured hearts with its sincere narrative.

Mob Psycho 100 Season 3: A Perfect Conclusion

Runner-Up: Mob Psycho 100 Season 3

BONES, the studio behind Mob Psycho, defied challenges to deliver the highly anticipated third season. Despite concerns about English dub recasting and source material limitations, Mob Psycho 100 Season 3 surpassed expectations. The season excelled by embracing the show’s signature absurdity, delivering standout action sequences, and providing closure to loose ends.

Surprisingly, this season delved into character development and overarching narrative, deviating from the typical action-packed shonen formula. Focusing on smaller stakes and emotional arcs elevated the final season, making it a synthesis and expansion of the series’ popularity. Mob Psycho 100 Season 3 concludes as one of the finest anime finales, leaving a lasting impact on its viewers.

Vinland Saga Season 2: A Viking Tale Reimagined

Winner: Vinland Saga Season 2

The crown jewel of 2023’s anime lineup, Vinland Saga Season 2, proved to be a revelation. Departing from the breakneck pace of its debut season, this season explored the aftermath of a viking family’s journey. The decision to slow down and focus on character over action provided a fresh perspective, drawing inspiration from cinematic masters like Akira Kurasawa.

With a mature and tortured Thorfinn Thorsson at its center, Vinland Saga Season 2 delves into the consequences of a life driven solely by revenge. Labeled “a masterclass in anime storytelling” by our reviewer, this season showcased the bravery of unexpected choices, breathing new life into the beloved series. The juxtaposition of a slower pace, historical exploration, and powerful character development makes Vinland Saga Season 2 one of the most surprising sophomore seasons in anime history.

Honorable Mentions: A Stellar Lineup

While these standouts took the spotlight, other contenders vied for the top spot, including Aggretsuko, Attack on Titan Final Season, Chainsaw Man, Insomniacs After School, Jujutsu Kaisen Season 2, Mobile Suit Gundam, Pluto, Scott Pilgrim Takes Off, To Your Eternity Season 2, Undead Murder Farce, and Zom 100: Bucket List of the Dead.

Conclusion: A Diverse Tapestry of Anime Excellence

As we reflect on the best anime of 2023, the year becomes a testament to the industry’s innovation, embracing the weird, celebrating the unexpected, and delivering unforgettable stories. Whether it’s the surprising twists of Oshi No Ko, the heartfelt journey of Bocchi the Rock!, the perfect conclusion of Mob Psycho 100 Season 3, or the reimagined Viking saga in Vinland Saga Season 2, each series contributes to the rich tapestry of anime excellence in 2023.

What were your favorite anime series of the year? Let us know in the comments!