Last year was a standout for anime enthusiasts, filled with a plethora of series that captivated fans across the globe. From heartwarming tales to adrenaline-pumping action, 2022’s anime landscape was as diverse as it was enthralling.
Reflecting on a Year of Anime Excellence
When you think back on 2022, it’s clear that the anime industry was firing on all cylinders. Selecting the cream of the crop is no small feat given the high bar set by numerous productions. Yet, amidst the sea of greatness, certain titles like Teasing Master Takagi-san 3, Chainsaw Man, and Cyberpunk: Edgerunners have distinguished themselves.
Standing Ovations: Honorable Mentions of 2022
Before diving into the crème de la crème, let’s acknowledge the titles that were close contenders. Series like Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba Entertainment District Arc, and Mob Psycho 100 III continued to dazzle audiences, proving that the anime medium is richer and more varied than ever.
Top Anime That Defined 2022
While every fan has their personal chart-toppers, here’s a look at some series that truly made a mark in 2022:
#11 Teasing Master Takagi-san 3
Arcane. Season 2. November 2024. #GeekedWeek pic.twitter.com/SmPjKZKhOx
— Netflix Anime (@NetflixAnime) November 9, 2023
A blend of comedy and budding romance, Teasing Master Takagi-san 3 continued to charm viewers with its sweet narrative and stunning iyashikei-style animation.
#10 Chainsaw Man
Living up to its substantial hype, Chainsaw Man burst onto the scene with a splash of gore and a dash of the surreal, introducing fans to a new kind of protagonist in Denji.
#9 Cyberpunk: Edgerunners
Cyberpunk: Edgerunners transported viewers to the dazzlingly dystopian Night City, delivering a compelling narrative infused with themes of ambition, love, and the human condition.
#8 Summer Time Rendering
A murder mystery that cleverly plays with time, Summer Time Rendering ensnared fans with its intricate plot and endearing characters.
#7 JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure Part 6: Stone Ocean
Netflix’s release of the final chapters of Stone Ocean captivated JoJo fans old and new, delivering a saga filled with pathos and epic stand battles
#6 Spy X Family
Spy x Family proved to be a breakout hit, combining espionage and domestic comedy to tell the story of an unconventional family with secrets of their own.
#5 Made In Abyss: The Golden City Of The Scorching Sun
Not for the faint of heart, Made in Abyss continued to push boundaries, weaving a narrative as dark as it is enchanting.
#4 Bleach: Thousand-Year Blood War
The much-anticipated return of Bleach didn’t disappoint, bringing with it battles that were as visually striking as they were emotionally charged.
#3 Attack On Titan: The Final Season Part 2
With tensions at an all-time high, Attack on Titan continued to unravel the complexities of its characters as they faced their most challenging dilemmas yet.
#2 Bocchi The Rock!
A sleeper hit that struck a chord, Bocchi the Rock! tackled the universal theme of overcoming personal barriers in pursuit of one’s passions.
A Year to Remember
While these series have earned their spotlight, they represent only a fraction of the year’s animated marvels. Each anime fan will have their own list, reflective of the unique and diverse offerings that made 2022 a year to remember.