In the world of anime, most series typically consist of 12 to 13 episodes. Occasionally, a particularly popular show earns a sequel, often falling into the genres of shonen, isekai, or romance. However, there are instances when an anime continues to release episodes weekly, resulting in hundreds of installments. While these long-running titles can be enjoyable for avid binge-watchers, opting for short anime that can be finished in a day often provides a more satisfying experience.
Shorter anime, usually encapsulated in a single season, can often be completed in one afternoon. Still, many end on ambiguous notes, which can detract from the overall enjoyment. This list highlights various short anime that deserve your attention, including those that are divisive yet noteworthy.
Updated November 9, 2024 by Mark Sammut: This edition now features a section dedicated to divisive series that might not be universally acclaimed but possess redeeming qualities worth mentioning.
It’s important to note that while anime with multiple seasons are included here, we consider those that work effectively as standalone features.
19. She And Her Cat: Everything Flows
MyAnimeList: 7.68
Inspired by a 1999 short film by renowned director Makoto Shinkai, She and Her Cat: Everything Flows explores the deep connection between a college student, Miyu, and her aging cat, Daru. The narrative weaves between their past and present, showcasing the small yet significant moments that bind them together. This heartfelt slice-of-life experience is especially poignant for pet owners, tugging at the heartstrings throughout its run.
18. Tonari No Seki-kun: The Master Of Killing Time
MyAnimeList: 7.53
With a simplistic yet charming premise, Tonari no Seki-kun follows Rumi Yokoi, a dedicated student who can hardly keep her focus in class due to the antics of her classmate, Toshinari Seki. Each short episode, averaging seven minutes, showcases Seki’s creative methods for avoiding classwork, leaving Rumi in perpetual confusion. The series maintains its freshness by embracing absurdity, making it a delightful watch.
17. Afro Samurai
MyAnimeList: 7.36
Adapted from Takashi Okazaki’s seinen manga, Afro Samurai catapults viewers into an alternate feudal Japan, where samurai are ranked by headband numbers. The protagonist, Afro, embarks on a quest for revenge against Justice, the man who killed his father. With breathtaking animation and intense fight scenes, the series captivates fans who appreciate stylish visuals coupled with a gripping storyline.
16. Gakuen Handsome
MyAnimeList: 6.72
Gakuen Handsome is an intentionally subpar anime, embracing ludicrous animation and clichéd yaoi harem tropes to parody its own genre. The story follows Yoshiki Maeda, a self-insert protagonist, navigating romantic entanglements in an all-boys school. Despite its shortcomings, the series cleverly critiques its genre while providing a humorous experience.
15. The Tatami Time Machine Blues
MyAnimeList: 8.18
A sequel to the acclaimed The Tatami Galaxy, The Tatami Time Machine Blues can be enjoyed independently, condensing its narrative into a concise two-hour viewing experience. Set during a sweltering summer, a broken air conditioner leads a group of Kyoto University students to find a time machine, resulting in a whirlwind of comedic and complicated situations. With exceptional animation and witty dialogue, this series stands out as one of the top comedy anime of 2022.
14. Time Of Eve
MyAnimeList: 7.99
Originally adapted into a feature film, the six-part ONA series Time of Eve delves into the complexities of AI and humanity. Exploring a future where androids are commonplace yet treated as mere objects, the narrative centers around Rikuo as he discovers a café that bridges the gap between humans and their mechanical counterparts. Although covering familiar themes, the series offers a fresh and thoughtful perspective on societal relationships.
13. Erased
MyAnimeList: 8.30
Erased is a masterful blend of time travel and mystery, featuring Satoru Fujima as he returns to his childhood to unravel a series of murders. The unique premise of an adult trapped in a child’s body enables an engaging narrative filled with twists and emotional depth. The stunning animation from A-1 Pictures enhances the show’s gripping storyline, making it an unforgettable thriller.
12. Devilman Crybaby
MyAnimeList: 7.75
Diving into darker themes, Devilman Crybaby reimagines the classic horror narrative through stunning animation and intense psychological elements. Although the series embodies a nihilistic outlook, it successfully captivates viewers with its compelling characters and a haunting soundtrack, making it a bold yet rewarding watch.
11. Detroit Metal City: The Animated Series
MyAnimeList: 8.10
Detroit Metal City features an outrageous premise where the main character, Soichi, leads a metal band while yearning to create easy-listening music. A brilliant comedy, the contrast between Soichi’s dual lives culminates in hilariously chaotic situations. With rapid storytelling and charming absurdity, this series is a must-watch for comedy lovers.
10. Golden Boy
MyAnimeList: 8.04
Golden Boy masterfully blends raunchy humor with life lessons as the protagonist, Kintaro Oe, embarks on a journey of self-discovery and romantic escapades. While it explores adult themes, the humor remains endearing and relatable, showcasing Kintaro’s evolving character as he learns from his experiences.
9. Carnival Phantasm
MyAnimeList: 7.87
Though it may not be suitable for everyone, Carnival Phantasm serves as a delightful parody of Type-Moon properties. Those familiar with the original series will appreciate the clever humor, making it an enjoyable watch. Each short episode is charming and succinct, offering a lighthearted experience without repeating jokes.
8. Gunbuster (Season 1)
MyAnimeList: 7.87
The classic mecha series Gunbuster defies expectations with its character depth and emotional storytelling. The series elegantly balances action and character development over its six episodes. This allows the audience to engage with its themes of sacrifice and perseverance within the mecha genre.
7. Mignon
MyAnimeList: 8.03
Mignon stands out among the myriad of anime based on manhwa. This short ONA series artfully blends Boys Love, trauma, and supernatural elements in an impactful storytelling experience. The narrative explores the relationship between Mignon, an underground fighter, and Young-One, a doctor, navigating a dramatic and dark atmosphere within a concise runtime.
6. Terror In Resonance
MyAnimeList: 8.09
Directed by the esteemed Shinichiro Watanabe, Terror in Resonance tells the gripping story of two teenagers, Nine and Twelve, as they execute a series of strategic terrorist attacks in Tokyo. The tight pacing and moral complexities present a thought-provoking narrative that captivates the audience from beginning to end.
5. Skull-face Bookseller Honda-san
MyAnimeList: 7.29
Skull-face Bookseller Honda-san delivers a lighthearted yet realistic glimpse into the life of a bookshop employee. The charming cast and cozy atmosphere create a series that feels inviting, making it ideal for viewers looking for a relaxing anime experience.
4. Cyberpunk: Edgerunners
MyAnimeList: 8.60
Cyberpunk: Edgerunners serves as a prequel to CD Projekt Red’s acclaimed video game, immersing viewers in the chaotic reality of Night City. The series explores themes of survival amidst corruption and despair, all while showcasing stunning animation and compelling character arcs.
3. Bunny Drop
MyAnimeList: 8.35
In Bunny Drop, Daikichi Kawachi’s life transforms when he decides to adopt his grandfather’s illegitimate daughter, Rin Kaga. The series beautifully explores familial bonds and personal growth, weaving a heartwarming narrative that resonates with viewers.
2. Ping Pong The Animation
MyAnimeList: 8.62
Ping Pong The Animation is a remarkable example of storytelling within the sports genre. Through the lens of ping pong, the series delves into the deep friendship between competitors Smile and Peco, showcasing their growth and struggles against the backdrop of competitive sports.
1. FLCL (Season 1)
MyAnimeList: 8.03
FLCL is a surreal voyage that captivates with its frenetic storytelling and whimsical animation. This six-episode series expertly combines mecha, humor, and rich visual artistry, culminating in a unique viewing experience that has earned it a devoted following.
Divisive Short Anime That Are Worth Watching
While it’s tempting to endorse every short anime due to their accessibility, not all are created equal. Below is a selection of divisive series that may elicit mixed reactions but are worth discussing:
- Alice in Borderland – Haro Aso’s thrilling narrative has sparked widespread acclaim and even inspired a compelling live-action adaptation. The existing anime, though limited to a 3-episode OVA, serves as a decent introduction to its high-stakes premise.
- Young GTO – As a prequel to the lauded Great Teacher Onizuka, Young GTO may not receive the attention it deserves. Though its five-episode format lacks the depth found in the manga, it offers an enjoyable and nostalgic experience.
For readers interested in binge-watching short anime, a wealth of choices awaits that blend unique storytelling with emotional depth, making for an unforgettable viewing experience!
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