20 Best New-Gen Anime: From Hidden Gems to Breakout Hits

Anime has always held a special place in my heart. Growing up, I was enchanted by traditional anime’s intricate worlds and deep characters. Now, as I’ve ventured into the realm of new-gen anime, I’ve discovered a treasure trove of hidden gems and breakout hits shaping this beloved medium’s future. The evolution is both exciting and nostalgic, and I can’t wait to share some of the best picks from this new era with fellow enthusiasts.

1. ‘Demon Slayer’ (2019-)

‘Demon Slayer’ or ‘Kimetsu no Yaiba’ is not just another anime about supernatural battles; it’s a tale deeply rooted in the bonds of family. When demons slaughter Tanjiro’s family and his sister Nezuko becomes one, their journey of revenge and redemption begins.

Its breathtaking art style sets ‘Demon Slayer’ apart, especially during combat sequences. Ufotable, the animation studio behind it, has outdone itself in bringing fluidity and vibrancy to each scene. But it’s not just the aesthetics; each character’s depth, struggles, and growth make the story resonate on a personal level. The series seamlessly blends emotions, action, and themes of perseverance.

2. ‘Chainsaw Man’ (2022-)

At first glance, ‘Chainsaw Man’ might appear as a brutal, action-packed series, and while that’s true, it offers so much more. It dives into the psyche of its protagonist, Denji, who is both a devil hunter and bonded with a devil himself. The raw, unfiltered portrayal of emotions, juxtaposed with the gory battles, gives this series an edge.

This balance of emotional depth and action has made ‘Chainsaw Man’ a standout. The narrative doesn’t shy away from dark themes, yet it’s injected with moments of humor and absurdity, a testament to its versatile storytelling.

3. ‘Jujutsu Kaisen’ (2020-)

‘Jujutsu Kaisen’ has taken the anime world by storm, and for good reason. The premise revolves around curses born from human negativity and those capable of combating them. Yuji Itadori, a high schooler with immense latent talent, finds himself thrust into this world of Jujutsu sorcerers after consuming a cursed object. The series manages to build an intricate world without overwhelming the viewer.

The character development, especially, stands out. Each character, from the protagonists to the antagonists, has layers that are peeled back as the story progresses. The fight sequences are visually stunning and smartly constructed, making ‘Jujutsu Kaisen’ a perfect blend of intellect and spectacle.

4. ‘Attack On Titan’ (2013–2023)

‘Attack On Titan’ is arguably one of the most iconic new-gen anime. Set in a world where humanity is on the brink of extinction due to giant humanoid creatures known as Titans, the story follows Eren Yeager and his friends, who vow to retake their world. What started as a straightforward narrative soon spirals into a complex tale of politics, morality, and the very nature of humanity.

Its ability to consistently shock and awe its audience is unparalleled. The moral ambiguities, the plot twists, and the character arcs, especially of Eren, make ‘Attack On Titan’ more than just an anime about giant killers. It’s a deep dive into the psyche of humanity, of what it means to be free.

5. ‘My Hero Academia’ (2016-)

In a world where almost everyone has superpowers or ‘quirks,’ ‘My Hero Academia’ chronicles the journey of quirkless Izuku Midoriya and his dream to become the greatest hero. While the concept might sound familiar, the execution is anything but ordinary. The series doesn’t just focus on epic battles but also on the heart and determination of its characters.

One of its biggest strengths is its diverse cast, each with its unique quirks and personalities, making the school setting vibrant and dynamic. The lessons on heroism, friendship, and perseverance go beyond the screen, making ‘My Hero Academia’ a beacon of hope and inspiration for many.

6. ‘The Promised Neverland’ (2019–2021)

‘The Promised Neverland’ offers a chilling tale set in an orphanage that hides a dark secret. The children, led by Emma, Norman, and Ray, begin to uncover the truth and hatch a plan to escape. While the series is filled with suspense and mind games, the bonds of family and friendship stand at its core.

The narrative beautifully delves into the themes of sacrifice, hope, and the lengths one would go to protect those dear. The juxtaposition of innocence with the sinister undertones of the plot makes ‘The Promised Neverland’ a gripping watch, redefining the horror-thriller genre in anime.

7. ‘Violet Evergarden’ (2018)

‘Violet Evergarden’ is a masterpiece of emotion and visual storytelling. It follows Violet, a former soldier, as she tries to reintegrate into society after the war and understand her own feelings. Taking on the role of an Auto Memory Doll, she writes letters for others, translating their emotions into words.

Through this, not only does she witness the myriad of human emotions, but she also embarks on a personal journey of self-discovery and healing. The anime’s breathtaking animation and poignant narrative make ‘Violet Evergarden’ a touching exploration of love, loss, and the human condition.

8. ‘Spy x Family’ (2022-)

‘Spy x Family’ is a delightful blend of espionage, comedy, and family drama. The story revolves around Twilight, a top spy who must form a makeshift family to complete a mission. A series of comedic yet heartwarming events ensue as the members try to function as a family, each with their secrets.

The charm of ‘Spy x Family’ lies in its balance. It oscillates effortlessly between thrilling spy missions and genuine family moments, offering laughter and warmth. This unique mix ensures that the anime caters to a broad audience, making it a standout in the new-gen category.

9. ‘Dr. Stone’ (2019-)

In ‘Dr. Stone’, the world as we know it, is reset when every human turns to stone. Thousands of years later, Senku Ishigami awakens and is determined to bring back civilization using science. The series is a celebration of human ingenuity and the spirit of exploration.

Its dedication to scientific accuracy sets it apart, as Senku uses real-world scientific principles to overcome challenges. But beyond the science, ‘Dr. Stone’ is also a tale of friendship and determination. As Senku works to rebuild society, the relationships he forges become the backbone of the narrative, adding depth to this unique adventure.

10. ‘Black Clover’ (2017–2021)

‘Black Clover’ presents a world of magic where almost everyone can wield it—except for Asta, the protagonist. Despite this, he aspires to become the Wizard King. His indomitable spirit, paired with his mysterious anti-magic abilities, sets him on an epic journey. While the series follows traditional shonen tropes, it does so with vigor and freshness.

Asta’s relentless drive, paired with the dynamics of the diverse cast of characters, gives ‘Black Clover’ its unique flavor. The battles are intense, the power-ups exhilarating, but at its heart, it’s a story of perseverance, rivalry, and the belief that anyone, irrespective of their background, can achieve greatness.

11. ‘Re: Zero’ (2016-)

‘Re: Zero – Starting Life in Another World’ introduces us to Subaru Natsuki, who is suddenly transported to a mysterious world where he discovers he can return from death, albeit with a catch. Each revival brings emotional and psychological torment, making Subaru’s journey both captivating and harrowing.

What makes ‘Re: Zero’ exceptional is its portrayal of vulnerability, the cost of mistakes, and the nuances of human emotions. While it offers thrilling adventures and complex characters, it doesn’t shy away from delving deep into its protagonist’s psyche, making it a compelling watch in the isekai genre.

12. ‘Vinland Saga’ (2019–)

Drawing from historical tales, ‘Vinland Saga’ tells the story of Thorfinn, a young Viking seeking revenge for his father’s death. More than just a tale of battles and conquests, it’s a profound exploration of war, peace, and the human desire for a place to call home.

The rich tapestry of characters, each with their motivations and philosophies, adds layers to the story. The impeccable art and animation capture both the brutality of battles and the serenity of the landscapes. ‘Vinland Saga’ offers a fresh perspective on historical anime, merging fact with fiction to craft a captivating narrative.

13. ‘One-Punch Man’ (2015–2019)

At the heart of ‘One-Punch Man’ is a seemingly simple premise: a hero so strong he defeats any opponent with a single punch. Saitama, the protagonist, deals with the existential crisis of finding a worthy opponent. But the genius of the series lies in its subversion of traditional superhero and shonen tropes.

While it’s packed with exhilarating battles and quirky characters, it also delves into themes of boredom, recognition, and the nature of heroism. The blend of humor, action, and introspection has propelled ‘One-Punch Man’ to global acclaim, making it a must-watch in the new-gen lineup.

14. ‘Tokyo Revengers’ (2021-)

‘Tokyo Revengers’ merges elements of time travel, gang conflicts, and personal redemption. When Takemichi Hanagaki is given a chance to travel 12 years into the past, he’s determined to save his girlfriend from a tragic future and alter the course of events that led to his dismal present. The series beautifully balances intense gang confrontations with emotional moments of introspection.

The journey of Takemichi, as he navigates the challenges of his youth and the complexities of friendships, paints a vivid picture of determination and the lengths one would go to correct past mistakes. ‘Tokyo Revengers’ is a roller-coaster of emotions, drawing viewers into its intricate web of relationships and events.

15. ‘Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End’ (2023-)

‘Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End’ presents an evocative tale transcending the usual adventure genre. After defeating the Demon King, Frieren, an elf mage, embarks on a journey of reflection and understanding as she grapples with the passage of time and the ephemeral nature of human lives.

The series beautifully delves into themes of mortality, memory, and longing, offering a fresh perspective on what comes after the quintessential “and they lived happily ever after.” Its introspective narrative makes it an extraordinary addition to the new-gen lineup, proving that stories can still surprise and touch us in profound ways.

16. ‘Trigun Stampede’ (2023-)

‘Trigun Stampede’ reintroduces us to Vash the Stampede, the man with a $$60 billion bounty on his head. In a world reminiscent of the Wild West but set on another planet, Vash’s reputation as “The Humanoid Typhoon” precedes him, yet his goofy demeanor often contradicts his notorious label.

This installment expands upon the intricate balance between moments of humor and profound introspection, exploring themes of morality, redemption, and the human capacity for both destruction and compassion. It’s a testament to the lasting appeal of the ‘Trigun’ series, blending classic motifs with fresh narratives.

17. ‘Blue Lock’ (2022-)

Diving deep into the world of football (soccer), ‘Blue Lock’ offers a unique take on the sports genre. The story revolves around a project aimed at producing the best striker in the world for Japan’s national team. As players compete against each other to be the best, the series showcases the mental and physical challenges athletes undergo.

The intricate art captures the dynamism of football, making each match intense and captivating. Beyond the sport itself, ‘Blue Lock’ delves into themes of rivalry, personal ambition, and the essence of teamwork, crafting a compelling narrative both on and off the pitch.

18. ‘The Rising of the Shield Hero’ (2019-)

‘The Rising of the Shield Hero’ stands out in the isekai genre with its dark and redemptive narrative. Naofumi Iwatani, summoned to another world as the Shield Hero, finds himself betrayed and ostracized from the outset. Naofumi must navigate a world filled with prejudice and injustice with only his shield to defend him.

The series offers a nuanced look into trust, resilience, and redemption themes. The relationships Naofumi forms, particularly with his companions, underscore the importance of loyalty and understanding, making it a thought-provoking addition to the new-gen roster.

19. ‘Kaguya-Sama: Love Is War’ (2019–2023)

In the battleground of love, ‘Kaguya-Sama: Love Is War’ offers a hilarious take on romance and strategy. Kaguya Shinomiya and Miyuki Shirogane, two geniuses at an elite academy, find themselves in a constant battle of wits to make the other confess their feelings first.

Each episode is a delightful game of one-upmanship, filled with ingenious plans and comical misunderstandings. Yet, beneath the humor, the series subtly touches on vulnerability, pride, and the complexities of young love. Its clever narrative and endearing cast make it a standout romantic comedy in the new-gen anime scene.

20. ‘Odd Taxi’ (2021)

‘Odd Taxi’ is a brilliantly crafted narrative that dives deep into the lives of its diverse cast, all linked by a single taxi driver named Odokawa. On the surface, it might appear as a simple story of anthropomorphic animals navigating life, but it quickly unravels into a tale filled with mystery, crime, and introspection.

The series masterfully intertwines the individual stories of its characters, exploring themes of loneliness, societal pressures, and the search for identity. Its unique storytelling approach, paired with a gripping plot, ensures that ‘Odd Taxi’ leaves a lasting impression, reminding viewers of the intricate web that connects us all.

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