Anime fans often focus on big 3 anime titles like Naruto, Attack on Titan, or One Piece. However, there is a vast world of lesser-known anime that offer just as much, if not more, in terms of emotional depth, artistic brilliance, and unique storytelling. These hidden gems often go unnoticed because they lack the massive marketing budgets or widespread fan base of mainstream series.
Still, they deliver unforgettable stories, fascinating characters, and worlds that pull you in completely. For those willing to venture beyond the popular titles, these underrated anime provide a refreshing and enriching experience. In this blog, we will explore ten underrated anime that deserve a spot on your watchlist. From deeply emotional journeys to mind-bending narratives and visually stunning artistry, these shows are bound to leave a lasting impression. Get ready to discover some new favorites!
1. Erased (Boku dake ga Inai Machi)
Genre: Mystery, Supernatural
Episodes: 12
Synopsis: Satoru Fujinuma, a struggling manga artist, has a mysterious ability called “Revival” that sends him back in time moments before a tragedy occurs. After his mother is murdered, Satoru finds himself sent 18 years into the past, where he must solve a string of child abductions to prevent her death.
Why It’s a Gem:
- Erased masterfully blends suspense, emotional depth, and time travel mechanics.
- Its concise 12-episode format keeps the pacing tight and the storytelling impactful.
- The emotional connection between Satoru and the characters, especially his childhood friend Kayo, will tug at your heartstrings.
If you enjoy thrillers with a personal touch and love solving mysteries, Erased is a must-watch.
2. Kaiba
Genre: Sci-Fi, Romance
Episodes: 12
Synopsis: In a world where memories can be digitized and transferred between bodies, Kaiba wakes up in an unfamiliar body with no recollection of his past. As he journeys through this surreal universe, Kaiba uncovers the secrets of his identity and the dark truths about memory manipulation.
Why It’s a Gem:
- The art style is unconventional, resembling 1960s cartoons, yet it contrasts beautifully with the show’s mature themes.
- Kaiba explores profound questions about identity, memory, and the human condition.
- Its episodic structure allows for diverse storytelling, each episode offering a different perspective on the world.
This anime is perfect for those who appreciate experimental animation paired with philosophical depth.
3. Moribito: Guardian of the Spirit
Genre: Fantasy, Adventure
Episodes: 26
Synopsis: Balsa, a skilled spear-wielding warrior, is tasked with protecting Prince Chagum, who is marked for assassination by his own father. Together, they navigate political intrigue, mythical creatures, and personal growth.
Why It’s a Gem:
- Exceptional world-building that immerses you in a richly detailed fantasy setting.
- Balsa is a rare example of a strong, independent female protagonist with depth and complexity.
- The narrative balances action, character development, and emotional resonance seamlessly.
Fans of epic adventures with a touch of mythology will find Moribito an absolute delight.
4. Barakamon
Genre: Slice of Life, Comedy
Episodes: 12
Synopsis: Seishuu Handa, a calligrapher, moves to a remote island after a public outburst damages his reputation. There, he learns life lessons and rediscovers his passion for art through interactions with the quirky locals, especially a mischievous little girl named Naru.
Why It’s a Gem:
- Wholesome humor and heartwarming moments make this anime a feel-good experience.
- The depiction of island life is both charming and refreshing.
- Handa’s growth as a character is relatable and inspiring.
If you’re looking for something lighthearted yet meaningful, Barakamon is a perfect choice.
5. The Great Passage (Fune wo Amu)
Genre: Slice of Life, Drama
Episodes: 11
Synopsis: This anime follows a team of linguists working on creating a new dictionary called “The Great Passage.” The story highlights their dedication and passion while exploring themes of communication and connection.
Why It’s a Gem:
- A unique premise that showcases the beauty of language and words.
- Thoughtful and realistic character development.
- A calm and reflective tone that makes it stand out from high-octane anime.
The Great Passage is ideal for viewers who appreciate understated storytelling and intellectual themes.
6. Planetes
Genre: Sci-Fi, Drama
Episodes: 26
Synopsis: Set in the near future, Planetes follows a team of space debris collectors who work to prevent accidents in Earth’s orbit. The anime explores their struggles, relationships, and ethical dilemmas in a realistic depiction of space life.
Why It’s a Gem:
- Grounded realism and attention to detail in its portrayal of space technology and challenges.
- Complex characters who face relatable struggles and moral questions.
- A perfect blend of workplace drama, romance, and sci-fi elements.
For those who enjoy realistic sci-fi with a focus on human stories, Planetes is a must-watch.
7. Shiki
Genre: Horror, Supernatural
Episodes: 22
Synopsis: When a mysterious epidemic sweeps through a small village, residents start dying under strange circumstances. As a young doctor investigates, he discovers that vampires, or “shiki,” are behind the deaths.
Why It’s a Gem:
- A chilling atmosphere and eerie visuals create a sense of dread throughout the series.
- Explores moral ambiguity, making you question who the real monsters are.
- Strong character arcs and unexpected twists keep you hooked.
Horror fans will love Shiki for its psychological depth and gripping narrative.
8. Silver Spoon (Gin no Saji)
Genre: Slice of Life, Comedy
Episodes: 22 (2 seasons)
Synopsis: City boy Yuugo Hachiken enrolls in an agricultural high school to escape academic pressure. There, he learns the hard truths about farming, animal care, and himself.
Why It’s a Gem:
- Educational and informative, offering insights into agricultural life.
- Balances humor and emotional moments perfectly.
- Yuugo’s character growth is inspiring and relatable.
Whether you’re a fan of slice-of-life anime or curious about rural life, Silver Spoon is a delightful watch.
9. Princess Principal
Genre: Action, Mystery
Episodes: 12
Synopsis: Set in an alternate Victorian-era London, a group of young spies navigates dangerous missions while dealing with political intrigue and personal dilemmas.
Why It’s a Gem:
- Stylish steampunk aesthetics and dynamic action sequences.
- Intriguing espionage plots with unpredictable twists.
- Multi-dimensional characters with compelling backstories.
If you love espionage dramas with a unique setting, Princess Principal will captivate you.
10. March Comes in Like a Lion (3-gatsu no Lion)
Genre: Drama, Slice of Life
Episodes: 44 (2 seasons)
Synopsis: Rei Kiriyama, a teenage shogi prodigy, struggles with depression and loneliness. Through his interactions with a warm-hearted family and the challenges of shogi, Rei begins to find purpose and hope.
Why It’s a Gem:
- Deep emotional resonance and raw portrayal of mental health.
- Beautifully animated scenes that enhance the storytelling.
- A perfect balance of melancholy and uplifting moments.
This anime is a masterpiece for anyone seeking a profound and emotionally rich experience.
FAQ
- What is an underrated anime?
An underrated anime is a show that, despite its quality and storytelling, hasn’t received widespread recognition or popularity compared to mainstream titles. - Why should I watch underrated anime?
Underrated anime often feature unique themes, artistic styles, and storytelling that differ from mainstream trends, offering a refreshing viewing experience. - Is Erased a good anime for beginners?
Yes, Erased is beginner-friendly due to its engaging plot, emotional depth, and short episode count. - Is Kaiba suitable for all age groups?
While Kaiba has a childlike art style, its mature themes make it more suitable for older teens and adults. - Where can I watch these anime?
Many of these shows are available on streaming platforms like Crunchyroll, Funimation, Netflix, or Hulu. - What’s the main appeal of Moribito: Guardian of the Spirit?
Its rich world-building, strong female lead, and emotional storytelling make it stand out. - Is Barakamon a comedy?
Yes, Barakamon is a slice-of-life comedy with heartwarming and humorous moments. - How long is The Great Passage?
It’s a concise 11-episode anime, perfect for a quick yet meaningful watch. - Does Planetes focus only on space debris collection?
No, it delves into the personal lives, struggles, and relationships of the characters, making it much more than just a sci-fi story. - Is Shiki too scary for casual viewers?
While Shiki has horror elements, its focus on character-driven storytelling makes it accessible to a broader audience. - What makes Silver Spoon educational?
It provides insights into farming, agriculture, and rural life, which are rarely explored in anime. - Is Princess Principal suitable for action lovers?
Absolutely. Its spy missions and action-packed sequences will keep you on the edge of your seat. - Why is March Comes in Like a Lion so emotional?
Its raw portrayal of mental health, loneliness, and human connections makes it deeply moving. - Are these anime available with English dubs?
Many of these titles have English dubs available on major streaming platforms. - What’s the ideal age group for these anime?
Most are suitable for teens and adults, but content warnings may apply for shows like Shiki and Kaiba. - Are there similar anime to Erased?
Shows like Steins;Gate and The Girl Who Leapt Through Time share similar time-travel themes. - What’s unique about Kaiba’s art style?
Its retro, simplistic style contrasts with its complex and mature narrative. - Does Barakamon have a sequel?
Yes, the prequel Handa-kun explores the protagonist’s high school life. - Is Planetes scientifically accurate?
Yes, it’s praised for its realistic depiction of space and orbital mechanics. - Does Shiki have a satisfying ending?
The ending is thought-provoking and wraps up the story while leaving room for interpretation. - Can I watch Silver Spoon without farming knowledge?
Absolutely. The anime explains agricultural concepts in an engaging way, making it accessible to everyone. - Is Princess Principal episodic or serialized?
It’s a mix of both, with an overarching plot and standalone missions that develop the characters. - Why is March Comes in Like a Lion divided into two seasons?
The two seasons allow for a deeper exploration of Rei’s personal growth and his relationships over time. - What makes Moribito different from other fantasy anime?
Its focus on character-driven storytelling, political intrigue, and realistic fight choreography sets it apart. - Are these underrated anime suitable for group watching?
Yes, most of these anime are enjoyable with friends or family, especially Barakamon and Silver Spoon for their humor and relatability.
Final Thoughts
These underrated anime gems showcase the diversity and depth of storytelling that anime has to offer. Whether you’re a fan of sci-fi, slice-of-life, or suspense, there’s something on this list for everyone. From heartfelt tales of personal growth to thrilling adventures in far-off worlds, these series have the power to captivate your imagination and stir your emotions.
If you’ve been looking for anime that breaks away from the typical tropes or explores unique concepts, these hidden treasures are exactly what you need. They might not have the same level of fanfare as some of the more popular titles, but their compelling narratives, well-developed characters, and striking visuals ensure a memorable experience. Exploring these shows is also a great way to support the creators and studios behind them, encouraging more diverse and innovative storytelling in the anime industry.
So, don’t miss the opportunity to discover these hidden treasures and broaden your anime horizons. Who knows? One of these might just become your new favorite! Add them to your watchlist, and take a step into worlds filled with wonder, excitement, and emotion. Which of these anime have you watched, or which are you planning to add to your list? Let us know in the comments—we’d love to hear your thoughts and recommendations!
