So, Japan voted on their top anime of 2022. Eighty shows made the cut! Eighty! That's a lot of animation. Let's dive into this list, shall we?
The Reigning Champs (Probably)
I bet Attack on Titan is on there somewhere. It's always on there. Giant naked people fighting? What's not to love (or be slightly terrified of)?
And Demon Slayer? Obvious. Tanjiro's quest to save his sister is peak anime heroism. Plus, the animation is so pretty!
Okay, okay, enough with the predictable choices. Let's get controversial.
The Hidden Gems (Maybe)
There's bound to be some isekai anime in the mix. Someone getting transported to another world and becoming OP is a classic. I secretly enjoy these.
Maybe Spy x Family made a splash? Anya's facial expressions alone are worth the watch. Bond the dog is also very high on my favourite anime characters list.
I am also hoping a few more "slice of life" anime made the list. Give me quiet moments and gentle stories any day!
The Ones I'm Side-Eyeing (Just Kidding... Mostly)
Look, not every anime can be a masterpiece. I'm just saying. Some have weird plots.
I am sure, there are several long-running series that just keep going. Is it still good? I don't know. I stopped watching 200 episodes ago.
"Why are they still fighting that one guy?"Me, yelling at my screen.
The Underdogs I'm Rooting For
Hopefully, there's a quirky anime about talking animals. Or maybe a sports anime that makes you cry over teamwork. That's what I want to see!
I love a good underdog story. Give me the anime where the awkward kid becomes a hero! I'm here for it. Absolutely!
Perhaps Bocchi the Rock! showed up? A socially anxious girl finding her place in a band? Relatable.
My Unpopular Opinion Zone
Alright, time for honesty. Sometimes, I prefer the anime with the ridiculously over-the-top fight scenes. Yes, even if the plot makes no sense.
And maybe, just maybe, I like some of the cheesy romance anime. Don't judge me! Everyone loves a good love story even if it’s super predictable.
There, I said it. Let the internet rage commence.
The Art Style Appreciation Segment
Let's be real: anime art styles are amazing. From the super detailed to the minimalist, there's something for everyone.
I'm a sucker for the ones with the beautiful backgrounds. Makes you want to visit those fictional places, you know?
And the character designs? Iconic. I will never forget those hairstyles.
Let’s Speculate about Some More
What are the chances a Gundam series popped up? Giant robots never go out of style.
I hope something from Studio Ghibli made the list, even if it’s technically not from 2022. Timeless classics should always be celebrated.
Did a dark horse anime completely steal the show? One that nobody saw coming? That would be amazing. Bring on the unexpected!
The Real Winner?
Ultimately, the "best" anime is subjective. It's all about what you enjoy. The anime world is huge and has something for everyone.
So, whether you agree with Japan's top 80 or not, happy watching!
Now, if you excuse me, I have eighty anime to add to my watchlist.