Okay, confession time. I used to be obsessed. Like, really obsessed with anime.
Remember those days? Binge-watching Sailor Moon till 3 AM. Arguing about whether Goku could beat Superman (he totally could, fight me!).
Yeah, good times. But… I think I’m over it.
The Great Anime Exodus
Don't get me wrong! I still appreciate a good opening theme. And I'll always have a soft spot for Studio Ghibli.
But my intense, unwavering love? It's… faded.
Am I alone in this? Probably not.
The Telltale Signs
Here are a few signs you might be experiencing the same thing.
First, the backlog. Remember that list of “must-watch” anime? Gathering dust, isn't it?
Second, the struggle. Finding a new show feels like a chore. Not an exciting adventure.
Third, the dub vs. sub debate just…doesn't matter anymore. You’re just tired.
The Realization
It hit me during a re-watch of Cowboy Bebop. A classic!
I realized I was watching it out of obligation. Not enjoyment.
That’s when the anime exodus began.
What Changed?
Maybe I grew up. Maybe my tastes evolved.
Maybe I just discovered other hobbies. Like competitive cheese sculpting (kidding…mostly).
Or maybe, just maybe, the anime industry started churning out too much of the same thing.
It's Not You, It's… Me?
Look, anime is still amazing. I know that.
Attack on Titan is a masterpiece. Spirited Away is pure magic.
But my heart just isn’t in it like it used to be.
The Replacement
So what did I replace anime with? Good question!
Mostly, it’s been books. Lots and lots of books.
And trying (and failing) to learn how to play the ukulele.
The Future
Will I ever go back? Possibly.
A truly groundbreaking anime could always pull me back in.
But for now, I'm happy exploring other worlds. Ones that don't involve giant robots and overly dramatic transformations.
A Final Word
So, to all of you that I loved anime with, it's been real.
No regrets. Just a gentle goodbye.
And maybe, just maybe, we'll meet again someday in the Crunchyroll comments section. But probably not.
Adieu! Or as they say in anime… Sayonara!