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Ever since the first season of Chainsaw Man ended, fans have been eagerly waiting for news about the next installment. The series by Tatsuki Fujimoto has a massive fan following across the world.

Denji from Chainsaw Man. [Credit: Mappa]

Now, legal documents filed by Shueisha have reportedly confirmed that Chainsaw Man Season 2 is greenlit. However, the announcement does not guarantee a quick release, which means that the wait is not yet over!

Fans may have to be a bit more patient, but at least we have hope that sooner or later, we will be getting a new season. And that is more than we can say for many anime, even the popular ones (No Game No Life for instance).

Mappa’s heavy workload spells delays

With the upcoming Reze Arc movie officially set for 2025, the second season seems further away than expected. This is because the studio in charge of the series is Mappa.

Elves have been a key feature of fantasy for decades. They are a staple race in fantasy stories ranging from Tolkien's Galadriel to Frieren, the protagonist of Frieren: Beyond Journey's End. Many elves take on roles as elegant archers, while others study the arcane as mages. By now, these long-eared folk have appeared in stories across several diverse mediums.

It's no surprise that they've even come to be a part of various different fantasy anime. Several Elven characters have made a considerable mark on their franchises. Different as they may be, these characters all have their Elven heritage in common. While there are plenty of elves across many anime, a few stand out as the best, not just in terms of aesthetic but also in terms of character.

Deedlit is a Classic Elven Heroine in Record of Lodoss War Streaming on Crunchyroll

Deedlit may be from a classic anime, but...

Not all anime endings are created equal. Some hit a home-run and go down in anime history as perfect, but such masterpieces are few and part between. More often than not, many anime endings are hit or miss. However, quite a few anime endings have subverted all expectations by rushing through the finish line with abrupt and anticlimactic resolutions.

An anime ending will ultimately determine how an anime is remembered, regardless of whether the anime started off on a high point or not. Sometimes it's better to be forgotten than remembered as terrible. Budget and time do sometimes have a hand to play in an anime's ultimate downfall. But, it's ultimately up to pacing and plot structure to determine if an anime series will conclude in a positive or negative way.

Soul Eater Concluded With a Lack-luster Anime-Only Ending Streaming on Crunchyroll

Soul Eater became a cult-classic for its visually stunning artstyle and bombastic characters.

In anime, main characters will often become stronger throughout the narrative as they overcome various conflicts. But, some anime like to take it to the extreme by making their protagonists truly overpowered in every sense of the word. There is no greater degree of power than obtaining the strength to surpass or even defeat God.

Sometimes the main character will take a god's place as the strongest in their respective world, going so far as to surpass the most powerful characters around them as the pinnacle of their universe. Whether the main character starts out stronger than god or slowly grinds their way up to being the most powerful, it hardly matters. The end result is always the same: Overpowered main characters are popular for a reason, after all.

Solo Leveling's Sung Jinwoo is the Strongest Hunter Streaming on Crunchyroll

Solo Leveling follows Sung Jinwoo, an E-Rank Hunter with the...

Hidive, one of North America's fastest-growing anime streaming services, has excellent news for fans of action-packed historical fantasies. Sword of the Demon Hunter: Kijin Gentosho will premiere exclusively on Hidive in the upcoming spring 2025 simulcast season.

Sword of the Demon Hunter: Kijin Gentosho is a promising supernatural action anime based on the popular light novel series by author Motoo Nakanishi, artist Tamaki and publisher Futabasha. The anime adaptation will launch Hidive’s highly anticipated spring 2025 lineup with a one-hour premiere on Monday, March 31, 2025, at 8.30 a.m. Et. Following the 60-minute series debut, a new 30-minute episode of Sword of the Demon Hunter: Kijin Gentosho will premiere every Monday at 11 a.m. Et.

Related'We'll Do Our Best Not to Disappoint': One-Punch Man Fans Get Long-Awaited Season 3 Production Update

J.C. Staff anime producer Atsushi Fujishiro has positive news for fans awaiting the return of the studio's One-Punch Man anime series.

Sword...

The main cast of the acclaimed high fantasy anime series Frieren: Beyond Journey's End has reunited to reveal some exciting new updates about the show's upcoming Season 2.

Via the Toho Animation YouTube channel, Frieren voice actor Atsumi Tanezaki revealed that Frieren: Beyond Journey's End Season 2 will premiere in Jan. 2026. Season 2's teaser visual was also presented, featuring protagonists Frieren, Fern and Stark; readers can check out the new Frieren visual confirming a Jan. 2026 release window below.

Related'We'll Do Our Best Not to Disappoint': One-Punch Man Fans Get Long-Awaited Season 3 Production Update

J.C. Staff anime producer Atsushi Fujishiro has positive news for fans awaiting the return of the studio's One-Punch Man anime series.

Fan-Favorite Frieren: Beyond Journey's End Anime Gets Season 2 Release Window & Key Visual Image via Madhouse

The update was announced during the Frieren: Beyond Journey's End: Talk Show Magic live stream. Voice actors Atsumi Tanezaki (Frieren), Nobuhiko Okamoto...

There was a time when anime and TV seasons used to come out like clockwork. As painful as it is to admit it, those days are now a thing of the past. The long wait between seasons has gone from an occasional frustration to an industry-wide crisis. Fans are no longer just waiting months for a continuation – they’re waiting years. It's been five years sinceFire Force Season 2 ended, with Season 3 premiering in April 2025. One Punch Man suffered a three-year gap between seasons (only to come back with a controversial studio change).

This isn’t just an anime problem though, it’s part of a growing trend in television and streaming as a whole, where long production cycles and industry delays are making audiences lose patience. While Western TV shows like Stranger Things, Euphoria, and House of the Dragon still manage to dominate pop culture despite long gaps, anime faces a more unique challenge.

If you’re one of the Og Tokyo Ghoul manga readers, you know the pain all too well, better than anyone else. It’s hard to even think about how the anime adaptation ended up being such a major letdown, which absolutely doesn’t make any sense.

Ken Kaneki bound to a chair | Credits: Studio Pierrot

It’s not like Studio Pierrot wasn’t capable enough to do justice to the manga. They have shown off their skills with previous adaptations like Bleach: Tybw, and Boruto, so what exactly went wrong with Tokyo Ghoul?

It’s a question that still haunts fans of this highly acclaimed manga series. The anime’s inconsistent pacing, awkward animation, and questionable creative choices left everyone scratching their heads. But was it really all Studio’s fault or could there be any other issue that fans might not know of?

Fans are still waiting for a Tokyo Ghoul remake,...

Isekai anime lean more towards shonen tropes, with female characters often taking a backseat to the story. However, plenty of isekai anime still feature incredible female characters—both as leads and supporting cast—who play key roles in the plot and themes. Many even have their own interesting arcs and growth.

As isekai has grown in popularity, the genre has expanded into more areas, including romance, where female characters often take center stage. But well-written women aren’t and shouldn't be limited to romance, and many action isekai anime also feature strong female leads. The key is giving these characters enough depth and development to stand out. While many isekai anime have great female characters, some stand out even more for how prominently they are featured.

Related10 Best Female Isekai Anime Protagonists, Ranked

Female-led isekai anime bring fresh perspectives, focusing on personal growth and self-discovery, making them the genre’s most compelling story.

Some anime take the cake in terms of powerscaling and overly complicated power levels. But, not every fight is about how strong a character is. Sometimes, a fight can be won with wits and skill alone. Power levels are great for showcasing an individual character's strength or aura, but they often simplify the scaling and offer little other than boring sequences where the outcome is already decided.

Skill, on the other hand, allow for suspense and excitement as two characters fight using their experience and smarts to claim victory. What's the point of watching a fight take place if the outcome is plain as day? Unless the purpose is to showcase an epic moment of comeuppance, power levels almost always ruin the fun of a given fight. But, when two fighters are equal, or better yet, unknown to each other, the suspense is much more satisfying.

Related 10 Shonen Anime Characters...

The journey of isekai becoming popular was a long one, but the way that the world perceives the isekai genre today makes it feel like it was worth it. The resurgence of the isekai genre is here and it has brought immense success to many anime.

Sora, Shiro, and Zell in No Game No Life | Credits: Madhouse

There are many current isekai series that are extremely popular and well-known, like Re: Zero, Solo Leveling, Omniscient Reader’s Viewpoint (Orv), The Beginning After The End (Tbate), and Zenshu. This renewed sense of interest and the surge in popularity is proof that the audience is still captivated by the fantastical worlds.

When isekai anime has intricate storytelling and relatable protagonists thrown into almost unimaginable settings, the fans seem to eat it up and push it to a very high rank.

Isekai is at its peak and ready to thrive

Yet, amidst this revival,...

Fans of No Game No Life were recently stirred by rumors of a second season of the anime. After being denied a sequel for a decade, the fans happily gobbled up the rumors that were circulating online.

However, the author of the series’ light novels, Yuu Kamiya, quickly addressed the speculation, confirming that the rumors are baseless.

What the author said:

Taking to X (formerly Twitter), Kamiya responded to an overwhelming number of direct messages from fans seeking clarification.

“Good morning. I woke up to an absurd number of DMs, but it’s just a baseless rumor, so I’d appreciate it if you didn’t contact me about it,” Kamiya posted, putting an end to the frenzy.

Mashiro Hiiragi, artist of No Game No Life and Yuu Kamiya’s wife, also added her voice to the conversation, humorously pointing out that any legitimate news about the series would not have escaped their notice.

Another setback has befallen Is It Wrong to Try to Pick Up Girls in a Dungeon? (more commonly referred to as DanMachi). The popular action fantasy title by Fujino Omori and Suzuhito Yasuda has been hit with another delay following the recent hiatus of Season 5 of the anime TV series.

The official social media account for DanMachi has announced a delay for its upcoming video game release. The message uploaded on X (formerly Twitter) reads: "Due to the postponement of the anime broadcast, we have decided to change the release date of Is It Wrong to Try to Pick Up Girls in a Dungeon? ~Fulland of Water and Light~." The action role-playing game was initially set to be released on Feb. 27, 2025. Now, it will be released on PC and Nintendo Switch on March 13, 2025.

Related No Game No Life Creator Debunks Season 2 Rumors in Disappointing New Update

Fans get a disappointing...

Fans of the extremely popular No Game No Life anime series have received a disappointing update on the possibility of a second season, with the franchise's creator responding directly to rumors regarding Season 2's production.

No Game No Life creator Yuu Kamiya has dispelled recent rumors relating to a second season of the anime series. Via his X (formerly Twitter) account, he said, "Good morning. When I woke up, I had an incomprehensible number of DMs, but they were all fake, so I would appreciate it if you would not contact me about them." The series manga artist Mashiro Hiiragi (alongside Kamiya) added, "I thought so. I was surprised for a moment, but then I realized there was no way we wouldn't have known about it..."

Related Inuyasha Creator Recommends the Next Hit Sci-Fi Action Series

Inuyasha creator Rumiko Takahashi gives a glowing review to a new manga series, calling...

It's no secret that in the expansive realm of Japanese manga and anime, bad things regularly happen to good people, making them victims of their circumstances. Sometimes it's clear-cut, such as in shonen manga, where a good-hearted hero suffers through no fault of their own when they deserved better. Some seinen manga/anime characters are like that too, or perhaps it's more morally ambiguous.

In any case, some seinen manga/anime series are grim yet highly compelling because of the horrible injustice that is inflicted on good people, which often leads to stories of revenge or desperately seeking the meaning of an apparently cruel and meaningless world. Even if some seinen characters aren't entirely innocent, they still deserved better than they got, never deserving the whimsical brutality of the world and fate. In a few cases, it's mostly for comedy, proving that even the rough seinen genre has a sense of humor.

The sheer length of some of the most famous anime series can be something of a turnoff for newcomers, leading some fans to wonder what the best short anime are. Friends may enthusiastically recommend Naruto, One Piece, or The Legend of Galactic Heroes, but those shows, classics that they are, have hundreds of episodes, making them something of a time commitment, to say the very least.

Maybe a viewer is new to anime and isn't sure that they want to sink that much time into a single piece of media, or maybe they're a longtime fan who simply doesn't have the time or patience to sit through another 70 episodes until they finally reach the story arc their friends keep raving about. Luckily for those pressed for time, anime has a lot of excellent shorter shows that aren't held back by their length, coming in at 13 episodes or less. The best...

Bushiroad’s upcoming game Hunter x Hunter: Nen x Impact was given a rating of “Refused Classification” by the The Classification Board of Australia.

The Refused Classification rating means that the game cannot be sold, hired, advertised or legally imported in Australia, as the content in question is very high in impact and falls outside generally-accepted community standards.

While the game has received relatively low age ratings in other regions—approved for ages 12 and up in Germany and South Korea and rated Cero B (ages 12 and up) in Japan—Australia’s Classification Board took a different stance.

Responding to Automaton Media, the board elaborated on its decision, stating that the game features depictions that suggest “sexual violence against characters under the age of 18 by an adult male character.”

They further clarified that these depictions lacked any story context to justify their inclusion, which contributed to the refusal of classification.

The...

That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime has become one of the anime community's favorite isekai series alongside other giants like Re:Zero and Konosuba. Known as TenSura for short, the Slime anime tells the tale of a salaryman who gets reborn as a blue slime in a fantasy world, but he won't stay humble for long as a tiny monster. Dubbed Rimuru Tempest, the reborn slime gains new powers, new forms, and most importantly, new friends and allies as he sets out to build a nation where all monsters can live together in peace.

For the most part, watching the TenSura anime in order is a simple affair, with three chronological seasons of the main anime to watch. But there's more content to be had with extra material such as the Slime Diaries and a few OVAs sprinkled in, and fans must know where in the timeline those extra adventures are placed.

Isekai heroes come in all shapes and sizes, varying from lighthearted characters with the best intentions to some of the most evil and vicious characters in anime. What separates each one comes down to circumstances, usually the world they find themselves transported to for any number of reasons that vary from reincarnation to teleportation.

Whatever the reason and method, the world where isekai protagonists arrive often involves some sort of rhyme or reason that varies from saving the world to conquering it, and while some characters wish to return home, others make a new home. Ultimately, each isekai protagonist is different and not all are heroes, but every single one has broken the rules and traditional trappings of the genre to some degree.

Kazuma Satou is a Greedy Coward Kazuma's Luck Stat Controls the Plot

Traditional isekai heroes step up and save the world from impending doom, but Kazuma is anything but traditional.

Shonen anime have been some of the most popular shows since the beginning. The inspiring action and heroic tales lift fans' spirits. With that said, there are many shonen anime that fall under the radar. No matter the reason for their anonymity, these shows are practically flawless from beginning to end.

What makes these underrated shonen anime so great is their commitment to their theme. They dont hold back a silly premise or a dark plotline. These stories lay everything out for audiences to experience. Many of these anime also boast great animation and character development. They may not have a large following like the most popular shonen anime, but these shows have what it takes to be just as renowned.

Related 10 Most Overrated Anime of 2024, So Far

While there are several 2024 anime that have become major critical hits, some of these shows were actually letdowns that didn't deserve the hype.

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Leaving behind the reality of ones world and becoming tangled in another is the classic trait of the isekai genre. The audience has always generally been moved and captivated by the odds stacked against the outsider who gets teleported or reincarnated in another world and must now fulfill an important task. The isekai genre is one of the most popular and loved in the anime community, giving fans adventurous tales of heroes and heroines saving a fantasy realm.

Although isekai anime series are always the highlight of every season, standalone isekai movies have also garnered public and critical fame. The likes of Studio Ghiblis Spirited Away are considered the epitome of the greatest isekai stories. However, besides the obvious classics, the genre has produced epic stories with impeccable world-building that will leave viewers awestruck.

Updated by Sage Ashford on November 14th, 2024:...

While some isekai protagonists get transported to new, fun worlds, the grass isn't always greener. Some isekai worlds are dark, brutal, and unforgiving, making the main character wish they could go back home. Dark isekai is a newer addition to the wider genre of isekai, and it doesn't have too many entrants. Most isekai series focus on the brighter side of life and give their characters fun powers in their vibrant new worlds. Dark isekai do the opposite, usually leaving the main character in a harder environment than they can initially handle.

Some characters, like Ainz from Overlord, are perfectly capable of handling the environment they're in and instead choose to be the world's villain. It's not entirely a dark world for Ainz, but it sure is for everyone who isn't his friend. Dark isekai have a unique opportunity of pitting the main character against the world their isekai'd into,...

The best anime about gambling are some of the medium's most engaging and thrilling titles, featuring suspenseful atmospheres and captivating mind games full of surprising tricks and unexpected strategies. Whether the stakes are high or low, these titles make each psychological duel as compelling as some of the best and most memorable anime fights.

As niche as the gambling theme may seem, this medium is creative and diverse enough for creators to figure out a variety of ways to incorporate gambling elements in their storytelling. From grounded stories featuring realistic games and palpable tension, to those distinguished through their fantastical or supernatural twists, every good gambling title leverages its dramatic setting to deliver entertaining twists and thrilling resolutions.

Problem Children Are Coming From Another World, Arent They? (2013) Produced by Diomeda and Based on the Light Novel Series by Tar Tatsunoko & Y Amano

Also known as Mondaiji, it's an isekai anime where 3 characters with unique abilities,...

June 30 is not only the official birthday of Sailor Moon; it's also the annual real-life celebration of International Sailor Moon Day. To commemorate the occasion, a talented anime cosplayer magically transformed herself into an alternative version of Sailor Mercury.

An anime cosplayer named Olga (@/carioka_go) celebrated International Sailor Moon Day 2024 by dressing herself up as Ami Mizuno, better known to the world as Sailor Mercury. However, this isn't the more traditional cosplay of Sailor Mercury. The punk rock version of the character is instead based on fan art by an artist named @/soo_k_0070 on Instagram. In addition to Sailor Mercury, @/soo_k_0070 drew several alternative versions of the Pretty Guardians, such as Sailor Neptune and Uranus, Sailor Pluto and Sailor Moon herself with Black Lady -- the adult, evil version of Chibi Moon.

Related One of Anime's Best All-Time Villains Gets Angelic Recreation in New Berserk Cosplay

One...

Thanks to some new No Game No Life cosplay, everyones favorite game-obsessed otaku is making the jump from the gaming world to reality. Shiro, the adorable gamer obsessed with her older step-brother Sora, is portrayed beautifully here by an amazing anime cosplayer.

The talented cosplayer, who goes by the social media name of "likelawu," shared photos of her No Game No Life cosplay on Reddit. likelawu wears Shiros memorable purple sailor uniform and her thigh-high stockings. She also sports Shiros golden crown with colorful embedded jewelry.

Related My Neighbor Totoro's World Cosplay Championship Appearance Inspires Both Applause and Laughter

The titular, towering forest spirit of Studio Ghibli's classic 1988 animated film My Neighbor Totoro comes to life in new award-winning cosplay.

Shiro from No Game No Life by likelawu photo Leonardo.weckner_photoby u/likelawu in cosplay

The various photos show likelawu passing the time in her room with different kinds of games,...

Since No Game No Life went off the air in 2014, anime fans (and the author himself) have been waiting for a decade for a Season 2 announcement. Now, a viral social media post falsely claims that a new season of No Game No Life has already been "officially" confirmed and will be announced very soon, along with other highly anticipated anime series -- one of which just came true.

An anime Facebook account called Zeethou is claiming that a Season 2 announcement for No Game No Life will be announced by Aniplex and Kadokawa on Aug. 2, 2024. According to the fake 'leak,' in addition to No Game No Life, new seasons for Lycoris Recoil, 86 and Kaguya-sama: Love Is War will also supposedly be announced, as well as an original Sword Art Online anime project, a new anime adaptation, and a Genshin Impact anime. While Aniplex and Kadokawa have indeed officially revealed...

A classic isekai trope depicted in Suicide Squad Isekai's premiere could be more than that meets the eye. Suicide Squad Isekai may be hinting at a twist that further explores its title genre. Understanding isekai subgenres is key to unraveling the potential storytelling secrets of the series.

There's a lot to love about Suicide Squad Isekai. The irreverent antihero squad of DC fame is deployed cleverly in the Wit Studios and Warner Bros. collaboration. With the likes of Harley Quinn, Peacemaker, and other chaotic characters among their ranks, there's no shortage of self-referential humor, genre self-awareness and fantasy-tinged action to whet the appetites of anime or DC diehards.

While the series does plenty to take advantage of and have fun with its "in another world" genre so far, there's still plenty of runway left in its debut (perhaps only?) season to take the anime absurdity even further. In particular,...

The Dangers in My Heart S2 and Ova Get English Dub Release on Hidive - Main Image

Good news for Ichikawa and Yamada fans, as The Dangers in My Heart season 2’s English dub release date is now confirmed! Not only that but the anime’s beloved Ova, Twi-Yaba, will also be released in English soon.

Hidive Announces English Dub Release for The Dangers in My Heart S2 and Twi-Yaba Ova

The Dangers in My Heart season 2 ended a few months ago, and finally, its English dub is coming out soon. That is because Hidive confirmed that it will stream the anime’s English version beginning on Saturday, June 15.

The company also announced that the spin-off anime special titled Twi-Yaba will get an English dub release. However, it is not currently known whether the Twi-Yaba English dub will also premiere on the same day.

Here’s when fans may expect...

Isekai anime offer new adventures, exciting art, and fresh storylines for fans to explore and enjoy. Overlord stands out by making the villain the protagonist, showcasing unique tones, contrasting light and dark themes. No Game No Life's 10-year-old release remains original with a unique story, vibrant art style, and an entirely new realm to explore.

Isekai is a genre of anime known for new worlds, fresh adventures, and an opportunity for an anime studio to include exciting art and animation in their story. Nothing feels more exciting than a character coming from a world they're familiar with and stepping into an entirely new environment, usually with new rules to boot. Protagonists, like Natsuki Subaru from Re: Zero, usually start their lives in Japan before getting "isekai'd" and transported to wild new lands.

These lands usually include magical beasts, people with animal features, and even spells and special abilities that the protagonist can use.

The world of anime is vast and varied. Many series are able to forge on for years, like Naruto, while others are able to tell its story in a succinct number of episodes, like Cowboy Bebop. However, not every anime series is lucky enough to enjoy a complete run.

From budget constraints and production issues to declining viewership and source material shortages, many things contribute to the premature endings of these beloved shows. Some have been able to see a revival in recent years while others may never get a second chance.

Attempts To Revive Btooom! Failed Close

Related 10 Canceled Anime With The Best Beginnings Anime like Btooom!, No Game No Life, and Pandora Hearts started very strong, only to get canceled before they could reach their stride.

The survival horror anime, Btooom! made waves in 2012 but never achieved its full potential. The series follows Ryota Sakamoto, a top player of the online game "Btooom!,...

Netflix isekai anime offer a fresh twist on traditional genre tropes, with unique world-building and character dynamics. Series like Overlord and High-Rise Invasion provide exciting adventures, while Uncle From Another World adds comedic charm. 3.Explore classic isekai like InuYasha, or heartwarming tales like A Lull in the Sea to experience the genre's diversity.

With the high turn-over rates for the many shows on Netflix, especially anime, it’s about time to reconsider the best of the isekai genre that the platform has to offer. Many popular shows have left the Netflix catalogue, such as Welcome to Demon School! Iruma-kun, The Devil is a Part-timer, and No Game No Life. What is left behind are hidden gems and unexpected entries that stretch, or even overturn the definition of an isekai.

The word isekai in Japanese directly translates to "another world", conjuring images of fantasy, new landscapes, and endless possibilities for redemption.

No Game No Life light novel creator Yuu Kamiya went viral on social media this week, igniting fan calls for a second season during the anime series' 10th anniversary celebrations.

Kamiya celebrated No Game No Life's 10th anniversary in a post via X (formerly Twitter), saying "㊗[Congratulations] No Game No Life, It's the 10th Anniversary of the anime." He added in a follow-up post, "Please make a second season ♥." Naturally, the post went viral, with over 500k views on the post and many in the replies echoing his calls. Readers can check out Kamiya's post below.

Related Oshi no Ko Season 2 Returns With Premiere Pre-Screening Oshi no Ko Season 2 premiere is set for an advanced theatrical screening, along with the 90-minute Season 1 episode for the anime's first anniversary. 二期作ってã.ださい♥ — 榎宮ç¥.♟ï¸.ノゲノラ (@yuukamiya68) April 9, 2024 Make season 2 already!!!@k_shoten...

Anime has a unique way of portraying characters in all their diverse facets, from valiant heroes to cunning tricksters. Among these, there exists a niche group of characters who have a penchant for gambling. Whether it’s high-stakes card games or strategic wagers, these anime characters are drawn to the thrill of taking risks and testing their luck. Let’s delve deeper into the lives of some of the most famous anime characters who love to bet.

Usopp – One Piece

Usopp, known as the marksman among the Straw Hat Pirates in “One Piece,” might not fit the typical gambler mold. Still, his knack for weaving elaborate stories and embracing uncertainty secures his spot among these characters. Usopp’s exaggerated stories often involve bets and challenges that push the limits of believability, showcasing his fearless spirit and love for adventure. Whether facing off against opponents or navigating the treacherous seas, Usopp...

Most high school anime keep things lighthearted and easygoing, but the slice-of-life psychological thriller Classroom Of The Elite presents a cutthroat environment where only the best can succeed. Kiyotaka has become notorious as one of the laziest, yet most intelligent, anime characters of all time because of his deadpan disposition but masterful manipulations.

Classroom of the Elite fans can rejoice, as the series has finally returned with a third season that's currently airing as part of the Winter 2024 lineup. However, for those needing something to pass the time while they wait for new episodes to release, there are plenty of other great anime series out there with a similar tone and theme to this iconic title.

Updated February 28th, 2024 by Chelsea Steele: Classroom of the Elite is one of anime's most iconic and unique slice-of-life series, combining the classic high school setting with the thrills of the psychological genre.

Every Best Isekai Anime Ever Made — From Long Before It Became Mainstream ( Photo Credit – IMDb )

The Isekai genre has been getting quite traction in mainstream media over the past few years, mainly driven by the rise in the popularity of light novels and web novels that largely follow this trajectory. However, many newer anime and manga fans may not be aware that the isekai and reincarnation theme has been a widely popular trope, existing long before it was formally categorized as ‘isekai.’

Here are some of the best isekai anime ever made. Some of these are old and classic, while others have that typical contemporary isekai storyline incorporated into them.

No Game, No Life

“No Game, No Life” is a 2012 fantasy, sci-fi, gaming manga based on the light novel of the same name. The anime of the series was animated by Madhouse and was released in 2014

Trending The Lord Of The Rings...

2014 saw the rise of great anime like Fate/kaleid liner Prisma Illya 2wei! and Fate/stay night: Unlimited Blade Works, which elevated the Fate franchise to new heights. Amagi Brilliant Park showcased Kyoto Animation's signature art and animation, making it a standout series in an already strong year of anime. No Game No Life and Yuki Yuna Is a Hero proved that they could hold their own in their respective genres, even after a decade.

The landscape of anime has certainly changed a lot since 2014, but that doesn't mean there isn’t any good anime to watch from a decade ago. Even though an entire decade has passed, there are plenty of great anime from 2014 that are still actively producing new content after 10 years, and even for those that finished their stories, they ended up leaving such a big impact on people that they’re still held in high regard after so many years.

Sword Art Online is considered a forerunner in the isekai genre, with its high stakes and relatable characters. Ni no Kuni explores the RPG-isekai relationship through parallel worlds, but falls short in character development and narrative structure. Lookism challenges the common interpretation of isekai by exploring social expectation and vanity, showing that the grass isn't always greener on the other side.

With the high turn-over rates for the many shows on Netflix, especially anime, it’s about time to reconsider the best of the isekai genre that the platform has to offer. Many popular shows have left the Netflix catalogue, such as Welcome to Demon School! Iruma-kun, The Devil is a Part-timer, Overlord, No Game No Life, Konosuba, and more. What is left behind are hidden gems and unexpected entries that stretch, or even overturn the definition of an isekai.

The word isekai in Japanese directly translates to "another world", conjuring images of fantasy,...

New York, NY (11/18/23) – Yen Press, LLC announced eleven new acquisitions at its Industry Panel at Anime NYC. Releasing in May 2024, this lineup includes eight manga, andthree novels (Brunhild the Dragonslayer; The God of Nishi-Yuigahama Station; Guillotine Bride).

Bungo Stray Dogs Official Anthology

Original Story by Kafka Asagiri

Character Design by Sango Harukawa

Art by Various Artists

Presenting the first anthology of the popular supernatural action series Bungo Stray Dogs! Featuring a luxurious list of guest authors, these new Bungo stories include everything from gags to heartwarming moments in a charming collection that will leave you begging for more!

Days with My Stepsister

Story by Ghost Mikawa

Art by Yumika Kanade

Character Design by Hiten

After his father's remarriage, high school student Yuuta suddenly finds himself stepsiblings with his classmate Saki. However, unlike the plain and simple Yuuta, his new younger sister has an over-the-top sense of style and is known...

The sources anime turn to for inspiration are not limited to manga series and original concepts. Another favored originator for anime series is the wonderfully multifaceted world of light novels, or ranobe, a type of Japanese young adult fiction that goes hand-in-hand with anime and manga. Light novels skyrocketed in popularity in recent years, impacting the trends that spread wide over the entire medium.

It's likely that even if fans have no idea where their favorite anime originated from, some of these stories came directly from ranobe. These incredible light novels are some of the best the genre has to offer, and they were adapted into equally splendid anime shows.

Related:10 Best Light Novels Everyone Should Be Reading In 2023

Updated on June 8, 2023, by Maria Remizova: The growing market of light novel adaptations urges more and more fans to pick up the books instead of waiting for a new season of their respective anime.

Chainsaw Man was arguably the most significant anime released in 2022. Following its release, anime fans bought the series' merchandise in excess. The polarizing antagonist for the first part of the series, Makima, immediately drew fans in with her mysterious motives and magnetic presence. As the series went on, Makima controlled virtually everything and everyone as she saw fit. Her existence as the Control Devil allows her to control anyone she views below herself.

Related: 10 Times Chainsaw Man Lived Up To The Hype

Due to the absurdity of Makima's control ability, virtually no one can resist her powers in Chainsaw Man. However, outside of Chainsaw Man, there are a select few that Makima wouldn't be able to control due to their immense presence.

Sogiita Gunha (A Certain Magical Index)

Makima's inability to control Sogiita Gunha is due to his bizarre existence. Sogiita's infamously known in A Certain Magical Index for his unexplainable physiology and powers.

The Japanese manga industry is beloved across the world for its dashing storylines and sometimes, even the titles that grace their covers. While titles in the United States and overseas tend to get straight to the point without spoiling the story, there are many manga and light novels in Japan that have long titles.

Related: 10 Best Isekai Manga That Still Need Anime Adaptations

These long manga titles are almost like a meme, amusing some readers with wordy, self-explanatory titles that summarize the entire premise in one go. Often, these are isekai or fantasy titles that describe the main character's goal and abilities, or these titles might describe an awkward relationship. Long titles might look like a hassle, but they do open up more possibilities for titles and allow the author to flex their creativity.

Update on May 13th, 2023 by Louis Kemner: by now, Japanese manga fans are used to some...

Fantasy anime has been a trend in the community for nearly a decade, with even older titles like Danmachi, receiving new seasons despite their already long run time. One such popular title in the genre is The Rising Of The Shield Hero, an anime that just recently wrapped up its second season.

Thankfully, even with the end (for now) of the popular series, there are many like it that have both transpired in the past or were aired after it. Many of these similar anime have captured the hearts of fans over the world for their creative stories and tantalizing characters.

Is It Wrong To Try To Pick Up Girls In A Dungeon? (2015 - ) Stream On Hidive

Otherwise, known as Danmachi, Is It Wrong To Try To Pick Up Girls In A Dungeon? was a title released in early 2015. The story follows Bell Cranel, a boy who wants to become a hero,...

AMC Networks has acquired Cool Japan Fund’s anime content distributor Sentai and its assets, including niche subscription streaming service Hidive.

Sentai’s anime-centric direct-to-consumer platform will join AMC Networks’ lineup of targeted streaming services, which includes AMC Plus, Acorn TV, Shudder, Sundance Now and Allblk.

Those digital offerings are in addition to the company’s linear channels AMC, BBC America (a joint venture with BBC Studios), IFC, SundanceTV, We tv and IFC Films.

Per AMC Networks, “With strong industry relationships and access to key content creators in Japan, Sentai distributes and curates one of the anime industry’s most diverse libraries of top trending and classic titles, with its content available on Crunchyroll, Hulu and Amazon Prime, among others.”

Japanese anime is a hot commodity these days, with major players like Sony Pictures Entertainment recently loading up on assets in the genre, one that has a large and vocal global fanbase and convention culture.

New York, NY (11/20/21)—Yen Press, LLC announced the digital release of chapters of No Game No Life, the bestselling light novel series that inspired the popular anime and manga, at the Yen Press Industry Panel at Anime NYC. The Yen Press digital chapter publication of Yuu Kamiya’s intriguing tale of gamers transported to a fantasy world will involve the prologue chapter of No Game No Life, Vol. 11 being made available on November 25, 2021 to time with the Japanese release of the highly anticipated volume.

While Yen On releases have previously been published as digital firsts, as seen with the The Intuition of Haruhi Suzumiya and Megumi Hayashibara’s The Characters Taught Me Everything, the publication of the No Game No Life, Vol. 11’sprologue is the first Yen On digitital chapter release. The No Game No Life chapter publication is an exciting addition to the Yen Press digital chapter program that...