Unveiling the Hidden Anime Treasures
Ninja Kamui (Currently Airing)
MyAnimeList: 8.62
A slightly surprising addition to the Winter 2024 anime lineup, Ninja Kamui tells an original story that blends shinobi, AI, and revenge. While still in progress, the show is shaping up to be genuinely fantastic, provided a viewer knows what they are getting into. E&H Production's series is fueled by intense and bloody action, with most fight sequences involving a beheading or two. On the surface, this might not seem especially novel, but most anime are limited in what they can depict when it comes to these types of scenes; consequently, Ninja Kamui stands out in a big way. Due to being licensed by Warner Bros and airing as part of Adult Swim, the show has been granted a level of freedom that is not afforded to most projects. And, it is taking advantage of this opportunity, mainly by depicting visceral and borderline uncomfortable gore.
FLCL: Grunge & Shoegaze
MyAnimeList: 4.74 (Grunge); 6.20 (Shoegaze)
2000's FLCL is a cult classic, and despite feeling like a product of its era, the anime holds up well due to its sheer creativity and kinetic energy. Even though its surface story is fairly unhinged and chaotic, the show's coming-of-age themes are universal and timeless. Since 2018, the series has been receiving sequels that have almost all struggled to justify their existence, and the most recent additions (Grunge and Shoegaze) are no exception.
Dive Into the Exciting Worlds
Housing Complex C
MyAnimeList: 5.37
Housing Complex C aired during the Fall 2022 anime season, lasting for four episodes. The series attracted attention due to the fact horror anime are exceptionally rare. If one were to rank the genre's best offerings of 2022, Housing Complex C would crack the top three since its only competitors would be the forgettable Theatre of Darkness: Yamishibai 10 and Berserk: The Golden Age Arc - Memorial Edition, the latter of which barely counts as horror. Despite running almost unopposed, Housing Complex C is not even the best horror anime of the year.
Western Animation Shows for Anime Fans
Samurai Jack
A Cartoon Network classic, Samurai Jack is a captivating journey of a prince born in feudal Japan sent to the distant future to defeat his arch-nemesis, Aku. With stylish direction and innovative storytelling, Samurai Jack remains incredible, offering a mix of episodic and serial content that keeps viewers engaged.
Scooby-Doo! Mystery Incorporated
Mystery Incorporated takes the iconic Scooby-Doo franchise to new heights with a continuous story arc, character growth, and a blend of comedy and mystery that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. The distinct art style and engaging plot make this series a must-watch.
Teen Titans
With a blend of Japanese influence and DCAU style, Teen Titans offers top-notch humor and action. Following a group of young heroes, each season highlights different characters and delivers stellar standalone episodes that are a treat for viewers.
Scavengers Reign
A sci-fi gem on Max, Scavengers Reign explores the adventures of survivors on an alien planet, showcasing fantastic animation and world-building. While not strictly 'anime', the series draws inspiration from Japanese animation, offering a unique viewing experience.