Anime has arguably never been stronger. Like Vegeta’s after reading power levels of over 9,000 in Dragon Ball Z, my scanner is shattering at the cultural force of animation in 2024. Megan Thee Stallion just dressed up as Starfire from the Teen Titans for Halloween. Hip-hop duo Creepy Nuts scored back-to-back number-one hits in Japan for their songs on Dan Da Dan and Mashle, and Olympic gold medalist Noah Lyles hid Yu-Gi-Oh! cards in his tracksuit this summer for good luck. The list goes on, but we nerds are finally winning.
This year’s anime slate is also fantastic so far. One Piece boasted a new animation style that reinvigorated enthusiasm for the 25-year-old (and counting!) story. Demon Slayer opened its third season with a mind-blowing one-hour special, and Dragon Ball finally returned for a new series. New titles such as Kaiju No. 8, Blue Box, and Delicious in Dungeon are sure to become fan favorites in no time. We’ll also see Chainsaw Man return by the end of the year, alongside North American streaming releases for the Haikyu!! and Blue Lock films.
Honestly, every new year feels like the best year in anime history. So until 2025 rolls around, check out our favorites from 2024 below.
Anime in 2024 has proven to be a cultural juggernaut, offering diverse genres, groundbreaking stories, and breathtaking animation. From timeless classics making a comeback to innovative new titles, there’s something for everyone this year. Here are the top anime to dive into, complete with links to trailers and viewing platforms!
1. Orb: On the Movements of the Earth
This anime reimagines the 15th-century battle between science and religion. A scientist risks it all to prove that the Earth revolves around the sun. Thought-provoking and dramatic, Orb stands out for its intellectual depth.
Watch the trailer on YouTube
Available on Netflix
2. The Elusive Samurai
Set in 14th-century Japan, this anime tells the story of Hojo Tokiyuki, a young lord betrayed by his allies. Seeking revenge, he gathers a band of misfits in his quest for justice. From the studio behind Spy × Family and Bocchi the Rock!, expect top-notch animation.
Watch the trailer on YouTube
Available on Crunchyroll
3. Dragon Ball Daima
Goku and friends are back in Dragon Ball Daima, the first new series in nearly a decade. Mysteriously de-aged into children, the iconic characters embark on new adventures, appealing to both newcomers and lifelong fans.
Watch the teaser on YouTube
Available on Crunchyroll
4. Look Back
Adapted from a short story by Chainsaw Man creator Tatsuki Fujimoto, Look Back follows a young artist discovering her passion for manga. This heartfelt tale has been turned into a full-length film.
Watch the trailer on Amazon
In theaters, coming to Amazon Prime Video on November 7, 2024
5. Haikyu!! The Dumpster Battle
The beloved volleyball series reaches its thrilling conclusion with The Dumpster Battle, covering the iconic match between Karasuno and Nekoma. The hype for this cinematic showdown is real.
Watch the teaser on Crunchyroll
In theaters, streaming on Crunchyroll in December 2024
6. Kaiju No. 8
Kafka Hibino dreams of fighting kaiju, but fate has a surprise: he transforms into one of the monsters himself. Balancing action and humanity, Kaiju No. 8 is a standout in the genre.
Watch the trailer on Crunchyroll
Available on Crunchyroll
7. Delicious in Dungeon
When a group of adventurers runs out of supplies, they start cooking the monsters they fight. This quirky mix of fantasy and culinary arts offers humor and heart.
Watch the trailer on Netflix
Available on Netflix
8. Blue Box
Part romance, part sports drama, Blue Box explores the budding relationship between Taiki, a badminton player, and Chinatsu, a basketball star. It’s a touching tale of ambition and young love.
Watch the trailer on Crunchyroll
Available on Crunchyroll
9. Chainsaw Man Season 2
Denji returns with his trusty chainsaw, facing new devils and dilemmas in Season 2. With its signature mix of action and emotional weight, this season promises more unforgettable moments.
Watch the trailer on Crunchyroll
Available on Crunchyroll
10. Blue Lock Movie: Episode Nagi
Expanding the Blue Lock universe, this film focuses on fan-favorite character Seishiro Nagi. It delves into his rise as a soccer prodigy and his battles on and off the field.
Watch the trailer on Crunchyroll
Available in theaters, streaming on Crunchyroll later in 2024
With so many incredible titles to explore, 2024 is shaping up to be an unforgettable year for anime fans. Whether you’re into high-energy battles, heartfelt dramas, or lighthearted fun, these shows and movies have you covered.