An Isekai Odyssey Continues: What 2023 Has To Offer
It seems the magic portal leading to alternate worlds is wide open, and it isn’t closing anytime soon. Isekai anime has remained the darling genre of both casual fans and otaku culture, growing exponentially year after year. This year has been no different, with more than 30 fresh additions to the genre. So, how do you separate the wheat from the chaff? Which new Isekai should make it onto your must-watch list? Don’t fret; we’ve got you covered!
Farming Life in Another World: A Slice-of-Paradise
“Based on a light novel by Kinosuke Naitou, Farming Life in Another World falls within the slow-life isekai category.”
Do you enjoy laid-back, easy-going narratives with a sprinkle of fantasy? Say hello to Hiraku Machio, a man who gets a second shot at life in another realm. His simple wishes? A healthy body and a serene farmer’s life. Talk about a peaceful countryside escape—this anime is for you if you prefer a nonchalant approach to a genre often rife with action and drama.
Breaking the Mold with Handyman Saitou in Another World
“Handyman Saitou in Another World foregoes the typical overpowered isekai protagonist in favor of a character designed to play a supporting role.”
Tired of the same old overpowered main characters? Meet Saitou, a reincarnated handyman with a knack for, well, handy work. What sets this anime apart is its humor balanced with moments of genuine depth. Saitou isn’t your usual run-of-the-mill hero; he’s someone who brings a fresh perspective to the genre.
Finance and Fantasy: Saving 80,000 Gold in Another World for My Retirement
“Mitsuha, the female protagonist, unlocks the ability to jump back and forth between Earth and a medieval world. She uses this skill to achieve financial security by selling modern luxuries for a premium price.”
In this anime, Mitsuha presents a delightful twist: the art of bartering modern luxuries in a medieval world. If you’re into the idea of turning a clever premise into a unique adventure, this series is worth a binge.
When Magic Meets Exorcism: The Reincarnation Of The Strongest Exorcist In Another World
“Haruyoshi is born to a magically-inclined family but has access to his previous life’s abilities, making him one of the most powerful people in his new home.”
The story focuses on Haruyoshi, a strong, betrayed figure who makes a comeback through reincarnation magic. If you are into darker narratives with an aura of mysticism, look no further.
The Comfort Food: Campfire Cooking In Another World With My Absurd Skill
“Tsuyoshi gains two familiars before too long, both of whom have awesome personalities that complement the human lead.”
Summoned by accident and left alone, Tsuyoshi turns to what he knows best: cooking. This series brings in a comforting, feel-good atmosphere coupled with a sprinkle of fantasy elements, making it an ideal choice for those who prefer lighter tones in their anime selection.
Girl Power: The Magical Revolution Of The Reincarnated Princess And The Genius Young Lady
“In a refreshing change of pace, the story skips over the whole ‘being sent to another world’ angle.”
Anisphia and Euphyllia provide a fresh take on the genre, where the plot centers around friendship and magical adventures. The anime brings in a fresh air of originality by not making the ‘other-world’ the focal point, but rather focusing on the relationships and magical pursuits within it.
The Forgettable Aristocrat: The Aristocrat’s Otherworldly Adventure
“The Aristocrat’s Otherworldly Adventure was among Spring’s most forgettable shows.”
Sometimes, even the magical world can produce clichés. This anime is your quintessential overpowered protagonist tale that might work as a light distraction but doesn’t stand out much from the pack.
Dual Realities: I Got A Cheat Skill In Another World And Became Unrivaled In The Real World, Too
“It is interesting to see Yuuya try to deal with his mental anguish and low self-esteem stemming from years of mistreatment.”
Meet Yuuya, a character who operates in dual realities, confronting challenges in both the fantasy and real world. The anime delves deep into Yuuya’s psyche, making it a poignant watch for those who like to dive beneath the surface of their characters.
Intricate Relationships: The Reason Why Raeliana Ended Up At The Duke’s Mansion
“Despite not really liking each other at this point in the narrative, the characters already have great chemistry.”
Eunha, reincarnated as Raeliana, finds herself in a perilous situation in a novel she knows well. The anime hinges on its leads’ dynamics and is a good pick for those interested in stories that focus heavily on complex relationships.
My One-Hit Kill Sister: Familial Power Dynamics Get A Makeover
“My One-Hit Kill Sister follows in the footsteps of Do You Love Your Mom and Her Two-Hit Multi-Target Attacks?, where the male protagonist is sent to a magical world with a family member who is far more powerful than them.”
Studio Gekkou’s upcoming anime is a seinen series that pushes the boundaries of family ties in a magical world. Maya, the main character’s sister, isn’t just tagging along; she’s a formidable force in her own right. This tale promises mature content and humor that might not be everyone’s cup of tea, but it certainly shakes up the isekai formula.
Dead Mount Death Play: Where Morality Takes A Backseat
“Dead Mount Death Play is an intriguing reverse isekai that, at first, appears to feature a villainous protagonist.”
With a story set in modern-day Tokyo, GEEK TOYS delivers a captivating narrative about a Corpse God turned crime ally. Far from the usual black-and-white moral compass we see in anime, Dead Mount Death Play serves up characters who play in shades of gray.
Summoned to Another World For A Second Time: Deja Vu, But Make it Exciting
“Summoned to Another World for a Second Time is very much a power fantasy type anime.”
Studio Elle is presenting us with a tale of a protagonist who gets a second chance in a world he’s already explored. What stands out here isn’t just the “been there, done that” experience, but how the world itself has changed. It’s a look into how even familiar territories can surprise you.
KamiKatsu: Questioning Existence In A Godless World
“KamiKatsu is bizarre. In isolation, the story is fairly aggressive and dark for an isekai, and it is compounded by over-the-top comedy.”
A world without the concept of religion or deities serves as the backdrop of Studio Palette’s latest work. Our protagonist, Yukito, is stuck in a societal limbo for questioning death and invites a deity into this godless world to build her reputation. It’s an isekai, but it’s also a sharp social critique.
The Most Heretical Last Boss Queen: A Strong Female Lead Takes Charge
“One thing that separates Pride from most of this subgenre’s leads is that she is fairly powerful.”
OLM Team Yoshioka introduces us to Pride, a reincarnated villainess from an otome game who now aspires to be a benevolent leader. If you’re a fan of the villainess subgenre, this anime adds a new layer by making its lead powerful and decisive.
Reborn As A Vending Machine: Not A Gag, But A Lifestyle
“Reborn as a Vending Machine does not take itself too seriously.”
Yes, you read it right. The protagonist is a vending machine. This unique angle by Studio Gokumi and AXsiZ creates an anime that is surprisingly engaging. With limited mobility and communication, the vending machine hero teams up with a strong-willed girl, Lammis, showing that team dynamics come in all shapes and sizes.
My Unique Skill Makes Me OP Even at Level 1: Overpowered but Underestimated
“My Unique Skill Makes Me OP Even at Level 1 is very much a by-the-numbers isekai story.”
If you’re into classic isekai tropes but want something lighter, Maho Film brings us the story of Ryouta Satou. He’s just another guy, but with a unique skill that lets him ace a dungeon on his very first try.
Sweet Reincarnation: A Sweet Spot In The Isekai World
“SynergySP has created some great shows over the years, although the studio’s most famous projects – Major, Cross Game, and Initial D – are relatively old. Still, Sweet Reincarnation is a decent notch in the company’s belt.”
Here we have an isekai where the protagonist gets a second chance to live his dream — as a pastry chef. It’s a heartwarming tale that makes you want to reach for a cupcake.
The Great Cleric: An Underwhelming Adventure
Despite its unique premise of an underpowered healer protagonist, “The Great Cleric” falls short due to repetitive storytelling and flat characters. While it may not be a total waste of your time, it’s hardly memorable.
“Out of all the quarter’s isekai shows, The Great Cleric is probably the worst. While not unwatchable, the show is rather forgettable.”
Am I Actually The Strongest?: The Quintessential Power Fantasy
“Am I Actually The Strongest?” encapsulates everything that isekai fans love and critics disdain about the genre—a protagonist who’s overpowered from birth. It’s a comfort food of an anime that successfully blends elements of action, drama, and comedy.
“An adaptation of a 2019 light novel series by Sai Sumimori, Am I Actually The Strongest? is Summer 2023’s most conventional power fantasy isekai.”
I’m In Love With The Villainess: A Twist on the Classic
Breaking away from the typical villainess trope, this anime takes the concept and molds it into something different and intriguing. If the anime adaptation can capture even a fragment of the source material’s charm, it will surely be a hit.
“Both leads, Rae and Claire, are delightful characters who have hilarious chemistry, and they will likely be one of Fall 2023’s best couples/duos.”
I Shall Survive Using Potions: The Crafting Angle
This anime, focusing on the art of potion-making, promises to bring something unique to the table. It’s not just about swinging swords and casting spells; it’s about using your brain and resources to make the best of a dire situation.
“After dying prematurely, Kaoru is allowed to revive in a new world, and she is granted proficiency in potion creation.”
Butareba: When Being A Pig Is Not So Bad
In a bizarre twist on isekai norms, “Butareba” has its protagonist reborn as a pig. It may not have received much attention yet, but its unusual premise could be its ticket to underground stardom.
“In a year that produced a vending machine isekai anime, a story about a man-pig seems almost ‘normal,’ a fact that might have taken the wind out of this show’s sails.”
Mushoku Tensei: Jobless Reincarnation
Still divisive but equally impactful, this sequel season concentrates on Rudeus’ quest to find his missing mother. Given how little of the source material has been adapted so far, there’s ample room for the story to grow and evolve.
“Season 2 finds Rudeus heading out in search of his missing mother. Mushoku Tensei: Jobless Reincarnation produced 26 light novel volumes, and the anime has only adapted about a quarter of this material.”
The Eminence in Shadow: A Hidden Gem
Ending its first season in Winter 2023, this series promises a compelling second season. Cid, its quirky protagonist, runs an organization that fights an imaginary cult—only to discover the cult is real. Now, that’s a plot twist we can all get behind!
“However, unbeknownst to Cid, this war is far from make-believe.”
Take Your Pick
In 2023, the isekai genre shows no signs of slowing down, offering a rich variety of stories. From chill farming lives to characters dealing with inner demons, there’s something here for everyone. Now, it’s time to decide which isekai realm you’ll choose to escape to next!
Other 2023 Isekai Anime Sequel:
Winter 2023
- By the Grace of the Gods 2
- The Fruit of Evolution: Before I Knew It, My Life Had It Made Season 2
Spring 2023
- In Another World With My Smartphone 2
- Kuma Kuma Kuma Bear Punch!
Summer 2023
- The Devil is a Part-Timer! Season 2 (Second Cour)
Fall 2023
- Dead Mount Death Play Part 2
- My Next Life as a Villainess: All Routes Lead to Doom! The Movie
- That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime: Coleus’ Dream (OVA)
- The Faraway Paladin Season 2
- The Rising of the Shield Hero Season 3
- The Saint’s Magic Power is Omnipotent Season 2
