In the ever-expanding world of anime, getting lost in the sea of mainstream hits is easy. While anime like Naruto, Attack on Titan, and Demon Slayer dominate the conversation, there are countless lesser-known series that deserve just as much attention. These hidden gems often bring fresh storytelling, stunning animation, and unforgettable characters to the table but somehow fly under the radar.
If you’re looking for anime that might have slipped past your radar, here’s a list of the Top 10 Underrated Anime Gems you’ve probably missed.
1. Ergo Proxy one of the Underrated Anime
Genre: Cyberpunk, Psychological Thriller
Episodes: 23
Plot: Set in a dystopian future, Ergo Proxy combines cyberpunk aesthetics with deep psychological themes. The story follows Re-L Mayer, an inspector investigating a series of mysterious events in a domed city where humanity lives in isolation. The anime explores existential questions, identity, and consciousness, offering a narrative that challenges viewers to think deeply about the nature of existence. Why It’s Underrated: Despite its rich narrative and stunning visual design, Ergo Proxy was overshadowed by other mainstream anime released around the same time.
2. Kaiba
Genre: Sci-Fi, Drama
Episodes: 12
Plot: In a world where memories can be transferred to new bodies, Kaiba follows the journey of a young man trying to recover his lost memories while questioning the meaning of identity and existence. The show’s distinct art style contrasts with its emotionally intense storytelling. Why It’s Underrated: Kaiba‘s unique animation and abstract narrative make it a difficult sell for mainstream audiences, but for those who give it a chance, it’s an unforgettable experience.
3. Mushishi
Genre: Supernatural, Slice of Life
Episodes: 26
Plot: Mushishi is a serene, slow-paced anime that follows Ginko, a “Mushi Master,” as he travels through rural Japan investigating strange lifeforms called Mushi. Each episode presents a different self-contained story, exploring the mysteries of nature and the human condition. Why It’s Underrated: While Mushishi is widely praised for its atmosphere and storytelling, its slow pacing and lack of overarching plot put off viewers who prefer action-packed anime.
4. The Tatami Galaxy
Genre: Psychological, Comedy
Episodes: 11
Plot: This quirky anime follows a nameless protagonist who navigates his college life in endless loops, trying to find the perfect outcome. The anime plays with time and alternate realities, diving deep into themes of regret, choice, and self-discovery. Why It’s Underrated: Its rapid dialogue and unconventional animation style may be a turn-off for some, but The Tatami Galaxy is a hidden masterpiece for those who appreciate unique storytelling.
5. Baccano!
Genre: Action, Mystery
Episodes: 16
Plot: Set during the 1930s Prohibition era in the U.S., Baccano! intertwines the stories of gangsters, immortals, and thieves across multiple timelines. The show’s non-linear narrative is bold and complex, demanding full attention from its viewers. Why It’s Underrated: Despite its compelling plot and memorable characters, Baccano! was overshadowed by other big titles released in 2007, and its fragmented storytelling style didn’t appeal to everyone.
6. Planetes
Genre: Sci-Fi, Drama
Episodes: 26
Plot: In the year 2075, space travel is routine, and debris floating in space is a serious issue. Planetes follows a group of debris collectors who clear space junk while dealing with personal struggles. The series is a grounded, realistic take on life in space, mixing everyday struggles with philosophical themes. Why It’s Underrated: Planetes’ lack of flashy action scenes may have caused it to fly under the radar, but its mature storytelling makes it a standout in the sci-fi genre.
7. Nana
Genre: Romance, Drama
Episodes: 47
Plot: Nana tells the story of two women, both named Nana, whose lives intersect after a chance meeting on a train. One is a punk rock singer chasing her dreams, and the other is searching for love. Together, they navigate their personal struggles, relationships, and careers in Tokyo. Why It’s Underrated: Though hugely popular with fans of romance and drama, Nana is often overlooked in favor of more action-packed or fantasy-driven anime.
8. Haibane Renmei
Genre: Drama, Fantasy
Episodes: 13
Plot: In a quiet, mysterious town, a girl named Rakka is born with small, gray wings and no memory of her past. The show follows her as she tries to uncover the secrets of her existence in this seemingly peaceful but puzzling world. Why It’s Underrated: Haibane Renmei’s slow pacing and minimalist approach to storytelling didn’t appeal to mainstream audiences, but for those seeking a more introspective anime, it’s a hidden gem.
9. Welcome to the NHK
Genre: Psychological, Drama
Episodes: 24
Plot: This dark comedy follows Tatsuhiro Sato, a reclusive shut-in (hikikomori) who believes in conspiracy theories involving the NHK broadcasting company. As he tries to overcome his isolation, he forms a bizarre relationship with a girl who claims she can cure him of his lifestyle. Why It’s Underrated: Its exploration of mental health, depression, and social anxiety might have been too real for some viewers, but its honest portrayal of societal issues makes it a standout.
10. Paranoia Agent
Genre: Psychological, Mystery
Episodes: 13
Plot: Paranoia Agent is a psychological thriller that weaves together the stories of various characters impacted by a mysterious boy known as “Lil’ Slugger,” who attacks people with a golden baseball bat. The show delves into the psychological struggles of each character, blurring the lines between reality and paranoia. Why It’s Underrated: With its bizarre, surreal storytelling, Paranoia Agent isn’t for everyone, but for fans of psychological thrillers, it’s a mind-bending masterpiece.
Conclusion
Anime is an ever-growing medium with countless stories to tell, but not all of them get the recognition they deserve. These underrated anime gems may not have the massive fanbases of mainstream hits, but they offer unique experiences for those willing to dive into them. Whether you’re in the mood for psychological thrillers, heartfelt dramas, or complex sci-fi, these hidden treasures are sure to leave a lasting impression.
So, which of these anime will you be adding to your watchlist next?