The best anime of 2024 so far

2023 was an exceptional year for anime. And if the early months of 2024 are any indication, audiences can likely expect another great year of terrific shows.

From new seasons of returning favorites like My Hero Academia, Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba, Sound! Euphonium, and Mushoku Tensei: Jobless Reincarnation to exciting new premieres like Delicious in Dungeon, Kaiju No. 8, Dragon Ball Daima, and Dan Da Dan, anime fans have a lot to look forward to in 2024!

To help you keep up with everything that’s coming out this year, we’ve gathered a quorum of Polygon’s resident anime lovers to create a list of the year’s best in anime. For clarity and convenience, these shows are presented in reverse chronological order, so the newest releases will always show up first. We’ll be updating our list periodically, season by season, so check in regularly to see what new, what’s hot, and most importantly of all — what’s best. Enjoy!

Our latest update added Kimi ni Todoke: From Me to You, The Elusive Samurai, Uzumaki, Dan Da Dan, and Orb: On the Movements of the Earth.

Orb: On the Movements of the Earth

How far would you go to defend an idea? Would you give up your life, and if so, what idea is worth something as monumental as devoting or sacrificing your own life to uphold it? Those are the questions at the core of Orb: On the Movements of the Earth. Based on Uoto’s manga of the same name, the series follows a cast of several individuals living in 15th-century Europe.

Despite lifetimes apart, they all share an ardent belief in a common idea: heliocentrism, a belief that the Earth and its adjourning celestial bodies orbit the sun. This belief flies in the face of the prevailing doctrine of the Church, and as a result, any one of them could be tortured or executed. Nevertheless, they persist in their search for the truth, even with the threat of pain of death.

If you’re a fan of historical fantasy anime like Vinland Saga or Golden Kamuy, then I highly recommend checking out Orb: On the Movements of the Earth. It’s a surprisingly riveting drama that transforms the advent of the Copernican revolution into a fraught meditation on the ideological schism between faith and science. —Toussaint Egan

Where to watch: Crunchyroll, Netflix

Once the beating heart of Dan Da Dan grabs you, it does not easily let you go. Based on the manga of the same name by Yukinobu Tatsu, Dan Da Dan follows two teens, Momo Ayase and Ken Takakura, the latter of whom goes by the name Okarun. Momo believes in ghosts, but not aliens. Okarun believes in aliens, but not ghosts. One thing leads to another and Momo awakens psychic powers from an encounter with aliens, and Okarun becomes possessed by a yokai named Turbo Granny, who steals his dong.

Yes, Dan Da Dan is the story of a boy who gets his penis stolen by a ghost, but it’s also so much more than that. The show smashes up influences from sci-fi and occult horror films, and even has moments that feel like an awkward coming-of-age teen rom-com. That, paired with strong visual direction from Science Saru, makes it one of my favorite shows this year. —Ana Diaz

The first episode of Uzumaki

We typically spotlight full seasons of anime on this list, not single, one-off episodes. But then, Uzumaki is not your typical anime. First announced back in 2019, the four-episode miniseries based on Junji Ito’s iconic horror manga of the same name has been one of the most anticipated anime of the past four years.

After several delays, the series finally made its long-awaited debut this October. Fans and critics were ecstatic over Uzumaki’s first episode, singling out the series’ characteristic blend of 3D and 2D animation, the exquisite character animation, and Colin Stetson’s chilling score. Then, the second episode aired, and all that goodwill evaporated in a haze of stilted animation and poor lip-syncing. The series improved, but nothing afterward hit quite the same high as Uzumaki’s premiere.

Given the series’ protracted production, including a year-long pause in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic and other unspecified complications, it would be easy to write off Uzumaki entirely were it not for that one pristine, spectacular episode. So spectacular, in fact, that we’re recommending you watch that episode at the very least for how it does what many thought was impossible: capturing the pure, mind-bending horror of Junji Ito’s storytelling and distilling it into animation. If for no other reason, that feat alone is worthy of commendation. —TE

Where to watch: Crunchyroll

If you’re looking for a good old samurai series, look no further than The Elusive Samurai. Based on the manga created by Yusei Matsui, this series follows the story of Hōjō Tokiyuki, a young warrior who seeks to restore the honor of his house after Ashikaga Takauji betrays his family. Swift and agile, Tokiyuki becomes known as the elusive samurai for his unique ability to dodge and evade his foes.

I think The Elusive Samurai is a solid recommendation for anyone who appreciates the standard shonen formula. However, it distinguishes itself from other shows for its standout visuals. CloverWorks delivers a feast of animation that’s inspired by classic Japanese art traditions like ink painting and shadow puppets. —AD

Where to watch:

When Kaiju No. 8 was first announced back in 2022, fans of Naoyo Matsumoto’s original manga series were ecstatic. A sci-fi anime about a man who transforms into a superpowered humanoid kaiju produced by Production I.G (Ghost in the Shell, Psycho-Pass) with monster designs by Mahiro Maeda (The Second Renaissance, Mad Max: Fury Road) and Studio Khara, the studio behind Hideaki Anno’s Rebuild of Evangelion tetralogy? Hell yes, sign me up.

The first season of Kaiju No. 8 delivered on the promise of its premise, weaving together a story about Kafka Hibino, a layabout 30-something with dreams of defending his homeland from a terrifying threat alongside his childhood friend, but who nonetheless lacked the courage and commitment to follow through on those dreams. When a twist of fate grants him the ability change into a sentient monster himself, Kafka commits himself to the task of pursuing his dream while concealing his identity as a half-monster vigilante.

The first season ended on a terrific cliffhanger that leaves the door open to an explosive confrontation in the future. It’ll likely be a while before we see the next season enter production, as the manga itself is nearing the conclusion of the arc set to be adapted next at this time of writing. I highly recommend you give Kaiju No. 8 a shot, and once you’re finished, be sure to catch up on the manga. It’s a breezy read with terrific fight layouts and a fast and lean plot perfect for any shonen action fan. —TE

Where to stream:

I’ve been a fan of anime about adolescent ne’er-do-wells with secret hearts of gold ever since I first watched Yu Yu Hakusho on Adult Swim. So Wind Breaker, the latest martial arts adventure anime from CloverWorks, didn’t have to do much in order to win me over. Based on Satoru Nii’s manga series, the show follows Haruka Sakura, a delinquent with a reputation for fighting who transfers to a high school notorious for its rowdy student gangs with the goal of becoming the top dog of the school.

An outcast from youth due to his black and white hair and heterochromia eyes, Haruka has never had a true friend, having been brought up on the belief that strength can only be found in one’s own ability to subjugate another. That quickly changes, however, when he witnesses the members of Bofurin — the definitive gang of his new school — fighting off rival thugs attempting to terrorize their neighborhood.

After being inducted as a member of Bofurin, Haruka gradually grows to understand that strength is more than physically beating the crap out of another person — it can also mean inspiring others to be their best selves in spite of their pasts, choosing to use their strength instead to protect rather than subjugate. Wind Breaker is more than its impressive fight sequences, though it has plenty of those. It’s an anime that’s about how there’s strength not only in numbers, but in opening yourself up enough to trust and believe in others as they in turn learn to trust and believe in you. The real treasure really is the friends we made along the way with this one. —TE

Where to stream:

Some people like to unwind at the end of the day by drinking a cocktail. I don’t drink, but I’d like to think that Bartender Glass of God captures those moments of reprieve and relaxation perfectly.

This laid-back show follows Ryu Sasakura, an expert bartender who makes drinks for people at a swanky speakeasy called Eden Hall. As we watch his life unfold, Sasakura meets new customers and finds a way to make the perfect drink to soothe their woes. This could be an old man grieving a late friend or a stressed-out service worker, but anyone is welcome at the dimly lit bar.

The glittering animation renders the craft of creating cocktails in stunning detail. I still can’t get over how good it feels to watch Sasakura chip away at a block of ice or delicately stir a drink, since those moments have an almost ASMR-like quality to them. If you’re looking for a show to put you at ease, this is it. —Ana Diaz

Kimi ni Todoke: From Me to You

After a 13-year hiatus, the classic romance series Kimi ni Todoke returned for a new season this year. Fans who saw the original got to watch the budding relationship between Sawako Kuronuma and Shouta Kazehaya unfold, but it was cut short. Now, fans can pick up where all the characters left off, starting with Koronuma and Kazehaya’s first date.

The reboot largely emulates the visuals of the first seasons and maintains series elements like its glowy romantic backgrounds and chibi character expressions. It also brings back its slow-moving plot and uneven character development, so if you’re expecting everything to work out overnight, this isn’t your show. However, even in its more baffling moments, it’s a beautiful series that’s just as much about the individual growth of each character as it is any romance. —AD

Dead Dead Demon’s Dededede Destruction

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Growing up can be hard. Growing up during a period of human history where damn near everyone thinks that the world is ending is even harder. Dead Dead Demons Dededede Destruction is a slice-of-life anime about a group of teenage girls going through this very experience: Growing up in the midst of an apparent alien invasion, with the death and hysteria caused by the arrival of a gigantic mothership otherwise melting into the hum-drum rhythm of everyday life as society inches closer to closer to collapse.

How is anyone supposed to focus on things like entrance exams and school papers in the middle of all of this, let alone a pair of disaffected teenage girls who just want to play video games, read manga, and make out with their crushes? Dead Dead Demons Dededede Destruction is a pitch-dark and frequently harrowing psychological story about a generation of kids coming up with in a world bombarded with way too much information and far too little reasons to hope for the future.

These kids may not be alright, but they’re doing the best they can, which is the best that really anyone can hope for. And who knows, if these kids can somehow find a way to navigate this absurd, chaotic time and find a way to come out it relatively sane in spite of it all, maybe there’s hope for the future after all. —TE

Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba – Hashira Training Arc

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In a show typically characterized by pulsing action and fights that draw out over the course of several episodes, the recent Hashira Training Arc brought a refreshing dose of calm to Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba. In the recent stretch of the show, Tanjiro Kamado ventures to a boot camp in the woods run by the all-powerful Hashiras to prepare to battle his nemesis Muzan Kibutsuji, the king of the demons.

Even though Tanjiro overcomes trial after trial set out by each leader of the Demon Slayer Corps, I would say this stretch of the series stands out for its adorable character moments.

We get to see the gloomy Obanai Iguro’s jealous reactions to Tanjiro’s friendship with Mitsuri Kanroji, and the warm soft smile of Muichiro Tokito when Tanjiro steps into a room. Sure, the threat of demons always lies just around the corner, but I will never tire of seeing Tanjiro and the rest of the cast in their summer camp era. —AD

For fans of the late Akira Toriyama, Sand Land: The Series is one of the most bittersweet anime releases of 2024. Based on the original single-volume manga, the series is both an adaptation and expansion of its source material, chronicling the adventures of an elderly sheriff named Rao who journeys across a vast and treacherous desert in search of a legendary spring to rescue his village from drought. With the aid of Beelzebub, a high-spirited demon prince with a love of video games and mischief, and his companion, Thief, Rao faces off against the royal army led by the nefarious supreme commander Zeu in their quest to liberate the people of Sand Land.

The anime does justice to one of Toriyama’s most underrated stories, deftly blending 3D and 2D animation to bring all the personality, charm, and humor of the original manga to life. The latter half of the series features an all-new storyline penned by Toriyama himself, introducing a dazzling new locale known as Forest Land and a stylish new antagonist. As heartbreaking as it is that Toriyama passed away too soon to see this adaptation praised, it’s heartening to know that Sand Land: The Series is an anime worthy of carrying the torch of his legacy. —TE

Where to watch: Crunchyroll

Sk8 the Infinity director Hiroko Utsumi is back with yet another original anime series. This time it’s a fantasy comedy about Araji Tomobishi, a shy young student who transfers to a new school filled with roughnecks and gangsters. Worse yet, he gets possessed by a powerful genie whose power inadvertently pits him between two of the strongest gangs in his school. To top it off, the poor guy just wants to lose his virginity, and instead he just ends up accidentally punching people, getting himself into increasingly deadlier and more precarious situations.

If you’re looking for a nonsensical action comedy with over-the-top antics, JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure-esque battles, and memorable character designs, Bucchigiri?! is an absolute delight. —TE

Where to watch: Crunchyroll

Fans of last year’s Mobile Suit Gundam: The Witch from Mercury, rejoice: There’s another great giant robot anime to watch this year, and once more, it’s also easily one of the funniest anime comedies of 2024.

Directed by veteran mecha anime director Masami Ōbari, Brave Bang Bravern! follows the story of Isami Ao and Lewis Smith, two mech pilots who meet during a joint American-Japanese military exercise in Hawaii. When their military base is besieged by an extraterrestrial threat, all hope seems lost — until a gigantic humanoid robot named Bravern comes to save the day… but only if Isami agrees to pilot him.

Where exactly did Bravern come from, though, and how does he know who Isami is? The answer, for right now at least, is don’t worry about it — just vibe! A big-hearted parody of “super robot” anime with explosive action, fun characters, and intense homoerotic overtones, Brave Bang Bravern! is an early contender for one of my favorite anime of 2024. —TE

Where to watch: Crunchyroll

Bones, the critically acclaimed studio behind popular anime like Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood, Eureka Seven, Mob Psycho 100, and My Hero Academia, is celebrating its 25th anniversary this year. What better way to celebrate the iconic production house than with an all-new original anime that combines tokusatsu-inspired action with a byzantine sci-fi conspiracy plot?

Set in a future where humanity has colonized the inner solar system and androids known as “Neans” serve their every beck and call, Metallic Rouge follows the story of Rouge Redstar — a Nean with the ability to disguise herself as a human who is dispatched to Mars on a top-secret mission. Along with her partner Naomi Orthmann, Rouge battles against a terrorist faction of androids bent on toppling society, all while transforming into a superpowered armored battle form known as “Metal Rouge.”

Co-written by Yutaka Izubuchi (RahXephon) and Toshizo Nemoto (Log Horizon), the series feels like a pitch-perfect throwback to the aesthetic and storytelling of early-aughts sci-fi anime, complete with wild left-field plot twists, dense world-building, and a New Jack Swing-inspired bop of a theme song. It’s certainly an entertaining watch, one which demands repeat viewings in order to pick up on every new detail and clue the series manages to throw at its audience. —TE

Where to watch: Crunchyroll

Going into Solo Leveling, I didn’t know anything about it other than it was one of the most anticipated anime releases of the season; I didn’t even look up the premise before diving in. By the time the credits rolled on the third episode, I honestly still couldn’t have told you what precisely was happening in Solo Leveling, but I did know I was hooked.

Blending typical fantasy adventure beats with video game elements, Solo Leveling is a unique and thrilling take on the typical zero-to-hero narrative. Sung Jin-woo is not the most dynamic protagonist, I must admit, but the spectacular animation, impeccably choreographed action, and relentlessly paced storytelling always leaves me itching to smash play on the next episode. —Sadie Gennis

Where to watch: Crunchyroll

The Apothecary Diaries follows Maomao, the daughter of a talented pharmacist and a poor girl from the slums in a world inspired by imperial China. One day, she gets kidnapped and sold to be a slave in the emperor’s palace. After solving the medical mysteries of some of the emperor’s concubines, she suddenly finds herself at the center of politics among the highest echelons of power. It’s kind of like House, except with swoon-worthy characters and an emphasis on showing the varying ways women navigate political systems that can both benefit and oppress them!

For me, I just love to see Maomao at work. She can get all dolled up and glitter like any anime protagonist, but she’s also a feral little medicine-obsessed goblin who has a sick desire to test poisons. She’s a girl who knows her interests and pursues them with dedication. It’s no wonder that every character in the show — and I as a viewer — can’t help but feel immediately endeared to her. The Apothecary Diaries has mystery, palace intrigue, and a dash of romance, and it’s one of my favorite anime series this year so far. —AD

Where to watch: Crunchyroll

Every year I fall head over heels for a new romance anime, and this year I’m obsessed with A Sign of Affection. The series follows Yuki Itose, a deaf woman who falls for a classmate named Itsuomi Nagi. He might seem a bit distant at first, but the feelings are mutual, and the series quickly settles into depicting their relationship as they both navigate how to express their feelings toward one another.

The actual animation might look a bit off at points, but this series still has plenty going for it. For starters, it follows two college-aged adults, so it feels a bit more aged-up than a lot of the other romance options out there. But what I appreciate the most about A Sign of Affection is that it isn’t about a love where they save each other, but where the central relationship inspires growth in one another. Itsuomi expands his world by learning sign language, and Yuki takes the steps needed to start traveling. I love to love love, and the two main characters just make it so easy. —AD

Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End

Where to watch: Crunchyroll

I don’t gravitate to many fantasy series, but the melancholic premise of Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End captured my attention in a way few series do. The story follows Frieren, a powerful elven mage who can live thousands of years and once belonged to a party of heroes who defeated the greatest evil monster in the land. Instead of depicting her grand story of defeating the Demon King, the show follows Frieren decades after those events and shows her quest to reunite with her departed friends in the resting place of souls.

While the show contains its fair share of contemplative moments, Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End brings together the best of both worlds. You’ll get to watch Frieren cast sick magic that overwhelms her enemies with a barrage of glittering attacks and also revel in the sense of loneliness that can only come with outliving almost everyone you’ve ever cared for in a long lifetime. It’s got a little bit for everyone, making it an easy recommendation from the slate of anime to air in 2024. —AD

Delicious in Dungeon (also known as Dungeon Meshi) is the anime this year, sporting a fun cast of characters and a delightful plot: As a crew of adventurers makes their way through a dungeon to save one of their fallen mates, they are trying to save money by eating the creatures they slay. It turns out that the critters down in this labyrinth are more edible than expected. Along the way, the gang learns a lot about the dungeon and the people inside of it through analyzing the creatures they slay and eat.

The author behind Delicious in Dungeon, Ryoko Kui, has a clear love for the fantasy genre, as you can really see her attention to detail when it comes to fantasy races, designs, and world-building that would rival even the best Dungeons & Dragons Dungeon Masters. All of the characters are charming in their own ways, and each episode will leave you more excited for the next one. —Julia Lee