With the change of seasons comes a change of anime. Anime both new and old are just starting to release, and if Spring 2021 is anything like last season, then there will be countless new shows to binge-watch over the weekends with some snacks, a comfortable blanket, and maybe a friend or two.
But for various reasons, not everyone has the time to watch every single new anime to be released this season though. To narrow down the choice, here are 9 promising anime of different genres to keep an eye on for this Spring 2021.
10 The Shaman King Reboot Is a Comfortable Return to Form
Originally adapted into an anime in 2001, Shaman King follows the 13-year-old shaman, Yoh Asakura, on his journey to becoming Shaman King by winning the Shaman Fights. Being a staple series for shonen fans everywhere, when Netflix announced that it had acquired the streaming license to the rebooted show for Western audiences, enthusiasts of the franchise were extremely pleased and excited.
Unfortunately, Netflix has not given a solid date as to when the new adaptation will be available on their platform besides specifying that it will be this year, but it is already available for viewing on various Japanese outlets for those who have them. Admittedly, Shaman King shows its age even underneath the beautifully done animation, headed by Bridge, in a way that only an early 2000s anime can, with a very predictable storyline and characters that aren’t as in-depth as some of the newer series. However, if potential viewers want a nostalgic trip back to the past, Shaman King fits that need just right.
9 Don’t Toy With Me, Miss Nagatoro: A Comedic Romance That’s Deeper Than It Appears
For those who are even just toe-deep into the world of anime, Don’t Toy With Me, Miss Nagatoro probably sounds familiar. When news first broke about the popular online-only manga receiving an anime adaptation by TMS Entertainment, the internet was flooded with excitement.
Now that Spring is here, fans are extremely happy with what is being delivered. Available for viewing on Crunchyroll, Don’t Toy With Me, Miss Nagatoro follows the shy introvert Naoto Hachioji and his ever-persistent companion, Hayase Nagatoro, through a skit-like format. A healthy dose of dark comedy, some romance, and stunning animation faithful to the manga makes this a choice pick for an anime to watch this season.
8 Shadows House Is Perfect for Horror Aficionados
Something that isn’t seen often enough in anime is horror. The genre lends itself very well to animation in that any number of horrific visuals and effects could be done, with only imagination as the limitation. The Junji Ito Collection, named after the mind of its creator, Junji Ito, is a perfect example of this.
While not nearly as disturbing as something like Parasyte or its ilk, Shadows House still serves to unnerve the viewer with some of its visuals and offers its own brand of unsettling experiences.
7 Eden’s Zero Knows Its Audience
Created by Hiro Mashima, the mind behind Fairy Tail, viewers who are fans of said series will feel right at home when watching Eden’s Zero. The story follows Rebecca Bluegarden, Happy, and Shiki Granbell as they adventure across space —partially fueled by Shiki’s desire to have more friends.
Eden’s Zero is a well-rounded anime that touches on action, comedy, and storytelling that can grab and keep viewers’ attention throughout the runtime of the episode. For those who are not big on Fairy Tail, this would be one anime for this Spring to pass on.
6 Full Dive Is a Fun Take On a Crowded Genre
As the years go on, isekai anime, or anime that take characters into another world, are becoming more and more common. Where once .hack//Sign was the only series that did such a thing, now the likes of Sword Art Online, Overlord, and I’ve Been Killing Slimes for 300 Years and Maxed Out My Level, and many more, have taken their own spins on the trope.
Full Dive also follows that trend but doesn’t take itself too seriously during the course of its runtime, leaving for some rather hilarious situations. If viewers want a more lighthearted alternative comedy from Don’t Toy With Me, Miss Nagatoro, this is a strong contender.
5 To Your Eternity Can Make A Stone Heart Clench
To Your Eternity is for those who are looking for something to invest in while being entertained emotionally. A unique premise, the tale follows an immortal nameless being that is able to copy the form of anything that gives it stimuli. Over time, the immortal being gains sentience and perspective on the human race leading to heartwrenching loss and heartwarming beginnings.
Recommended for those who enjoyed reading or watching A Silent Voice. The creator, Yoshitoki Oima, explores many of the same themes of humanity, life, and emotion here as she did in the aforementioned title.
4 Mars Red Makes You Wonder Why Vampire Anime Are Niche
Mars Red brings something that is more of a rarity in today’s anime. Where once upon a time, vampires were all the rage, featuring predominately across multiple franchises like Rosario Vampire, Dance in The Vampire Bund, and the latest of which, Bakemonogatari, now the well has run slightly dry.
In comes Mars Red with its beautiful visuals and gritty action and it makes viewers wonder why the vampire train ever stopped in the first place. Based on a stageplay by Bun-O Fujisawa, the anime tells a gripping story that takes place in 1923’s Japan.
3 86 For Those Who Love Mechs & Political intrigue
Usually, when mechs are brought up, the first thought is Gundam, Evangelion, or even Eureka Seven for those who have been in the game long enough, and 86 is good enough to make itself a part of that list for those who love their giant mechanized fighters.
Much like those mentioned prior, 86 has taken it upon itself to craft a world that mirrors our own and shines a light on socioeconomic issues that some may not be aware of. Written by Asato Asato and brought to the screen by A-1 Pictures, 86 is a heavy tale, but a good one nonetheless.
2 Vivy: Fluorite Eye’s Song Has a Melody That Everyone Needs to Hear
Vivy: Fluorite Eye’s Song is truly something special. It’s like some odd mixture of the Terminator, Japanese pop idol culture, and Steins; Gate, but it works extraordinarily well and brings a fascinating story saturated with rich action, beautiful melodies, and gorgeous visuals.
Without giving too much away, Vivy: Fluorite Eye’s Song tells the story of Vivy and Matsumoto, two A.I. created for very different purposes, working together to stop the fall of humankind and save the world from an apocalyptic war between humans and A.I.
1 Tokyo Revengers Is A Story About Delquincy & Time Travel
Possibly the most well-received anime of this Spring, Tokyo Revengers has a little something for everyone. Shonen lovers will undoubtedly be enamored with Takemichi’s climb to the top, those who love an in-depth storyline will adore the prospect of time travel, and there is even a dash of romance in here as well.
The animation is done by Liden Animation and is a treat to watch. The anime has been so well received, in fact, that it is already slated to receive a live-action adaptation for release on the big screen.
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