Mind-Blowing Anime Series You Won't Believe You Can Binge in Just One Day

Not every anime needs to have thousands of episodes, like One Piece or Case Closed. In fact, some of the most enjoyable stories are concise and compact. So, let's explore shows that excel in this aspect.

These shows can be considered "easily bingeable" due to their fast pace, cohesive storytelling, or the diversity of each episode. Whether it's one season or two, these shows captivate viewers with intriguing plotlines and beloved characters. With a wide range of styles and genres available, there's a binge-worthy anime for everyone looking for the best.

As of August 14, 2023, Mark Sammut has provided an update on the current Summer 2023 anime season. To fully watch everything, one would have to dedicate approximately 40 episodes per week. However, it is rarely worth it to consume such a large amount of content, and most individuals tend to choose only a few shows that catch their interest. In the meantime, while waiting for new episodes of popular anime series like Jujutsu Kaisen, Bleach, Mushoku Tensei, or Zom 100, viewers may find it refreshing to indulge in shorter, binge-worthy anime series. It is worth noting that anime with multiple seasons will be considered, as long as each season can be enjoyed independently.

26 She And Her Cat: Everything Flows

Japanese Title	Kanojo to Kanojo no Neko: Everything Flows
Studio	LIDENFILMS, LIDENFILMS Kyoto Studio
Number of Episodes	4
Where to Stream	Crunchyroll

Originating from a short film made by Makoto Shinkai in 1999, She and Her Cat: Everything Flows is a definite must-see for admirers of the director's later works. This enchanting series explores the deep connection between Miyu and her beloved cat, Daru, who have spent many precious moments together. As Daru reaches the end of his life, Miyu finds herself on the brink of adulthood as a college student. Through an intricate weaving of past and present, Everything Flows beautifully portrays the small yet meaningful experiences that have solidified Miyu and Daru's unwavering bond.

25 Tonari No Seki-kun: The Master Of Killing Time

: A Heartwarming Anime That Strikes a Chord with Pet Owners and Emotionally Connects with Viewers

Japanese Title	Tonari No Seki-kun
Studio	Shin-Ei Animation
Number of Episodes	21 Shorts
Where to Stream	Crunchyroll

Tonari no Seki-kun presents a charmingly simple concept. Rumi Yokoi, a dedicated student, simply wants to focus in class. However, sitting beside her is Toshinari Seki, a boy who goes to great lengths to avoid paying attention. This leads to an epic battle between them: Seki indulging in elaborate acts of time-wasting, while Rumi struggles to resist being captivated by the chaos unfolding on his desk.

With each episode lasting about 7 minutes, the series flies by in no time. Despite the repetitive nature of the jokes, Tonari no Seki-kun manages to stay enjoyable and refreshing throughout its entire run. This is thanks to its short duration and willingness to embrace absurdity.

24 Megalo Box

Japanese Title	Megalo Box
Studio	TMS Entertainment
Number of Episodes	13 (Season 1) & 13 (Season 2)
Where to Stream	Crunchyroll, Hulu

The release of Megalo Box in 2018 took many by surprise, and its recent announcement of a second season has further astonished fans. This anime serves as a quasi-celebration and tribute to Ashita no Joe, a legendary boxing anime akin to Rocky Balboa in its distinctive style and narrative.

Yet, despite its origins as a celebration of another series, Megalo Box manages to captivate on its own merits. The intricately crafted world sparks curiosity, and the enigmatic protagonist, Junk Dog or "Joe," leaves viewers yearning for more insight into his character. Moreover, the exhilarating spectacle of his fights adds to the show's appeal. Notably, the first season spanned a mere 13 episodes, making it an easily digestible watch.

23 Afro Samurai

Japanese Title	Afro Samurai
Studio	Gonzo
Number of Episodes	5 (+ Movie)
Where to Stream	Crunchyroll, Hulu, TubiTV

Based on Takashi Okazaki's seinen manga, Afro Samurai has garnered a following for its impeccably choreographed action and impressive ensemble cast for the English voice acting. Set in an alternate version of feudal Japan, warriors are classified by the number displayed on their headbands, with the renowned "Number 1" signifying the most formidable fighter in the entire country. As a young child, the protagonist, Afro Samurai, witnessed the demise of his father at the hands of Justice, who then claimed his Number 1 headband. Now a skilled swordsman himself, Afro Samurai embarks on a quest for vengeance against Justice.

With its lively characters and exceptional soundtrack, Afro Samurai delivers an enthralling viewing experience; however, it is the anime's graphic fight sequences and stylish animation that truly captivate audiences. While the plot offers moments of depth and introspection, both the series and the movie fully comprehend and cater to what the viewers desire to witness.

22 Gakuen Handsome

Japanese Title	Gakuen Handsome
Studio	Team YokkyuFuman
Number of Episodes	13 Shorts
Where to Stream	Crunchyroll

Gakuen Handsome boasts dreadful animation, abhorrent characters, and an abundance of yuri harem clichés. Notably, this anime exhibits self-awareness regarding these aspects, cleverly utilizing them to satirize a genre that has birthed numerous divisive series.

A captivating tale unfolds as Yoshiki Maeda, a self-insert protagonist, enrolls in an exclusive all-boys high school and swiftly becomes the center of attention for the school's most sought-after suitors and a teacher. From that point on, Yoshiki's everyday life is engulfed in a whirlwind of audacious displays of love, extravagant romantic gestures, and the impeccably sculpted chins that are characteristic of the anime realm.

21 The Tatami Time Machine Blues

Japanese Title	Yojouhan Time Machine Blues
Studio	Science SARU
Number of Episodes	6
Where to Stream	Hulu

The Tatami Time Machine Blues, a sequel to the acclaimed The Tatami Galaxy from 2010, offers a unique viewing experience. While the original series consists of just 11 episodes and can be binge-watched, the 2022 season condenses the story into a two-hour film. Its self-contained narrative makes it suitable for a single sitting, even for those unfamiliar with its predecessor.

Set in an apartment complex occupied by Kyoto University students on a scorching summer day, the residents are left in a sweltering mess when the air conditioner remote malfunctions. However, they stumble upon a time machine, which presents them with the opportunity to rewrite the past and create a cooler future. The story quickly becomes intricate and engaging, accompanied by stunning animation and a clever sense of humor. The Tatami Time Machine Blues is a delightful comedy anime and a standout of 2022.

20 Erased

Japanese Title	Boku dake ga Inai Machi
Studio	A-1 Pictures
Number of Episodes	12
Where to Stream	Crunchyroll, Hulu, Netflix

Erased is a sensational take on the concept of altering the past, reminiscent of the beloved film Back to the Future. A-1 Pictures, the renowned animation studio, impressively brings this narrative to life. Noteworthy for their diverse portfolio of anime, including the mesmerizing adaptation of Fairy Tail, the thrilling Blue Exorcist adaptation, and even the unconventional series GATE.

19 Senyuu.

: What sets Erased apart is its unique premise. The protagonist, MC Satoru Fujima, is a grown adult who possesses the ability to travel back in time and alter events. In this case, he goes back to his middle school days to unravel a perplexing murder mystery. What makes this even more intriguing is the fact that Satoru must navigate through mature themes and convince others of his credibility, all while inhabiting his younger self. Additionally, the story beautifully captures the bond between Satoru and Kayo, the girl he is determined to save. This combination of suspenseful storytelling, occasional jumps to the present, and the mesmerizing opening song will surely captivate viewers, leaving the melody lingering in their minds for weeks to come.

Japanese Title	Senyuu.
Studios	Ordet, LIDENFILMS
Number of Episodes	13 Shorts (Season 1) & 13 Shorts (Season 2)
Where to Stream	Crunchyroll

Once upon a time in a fantasy world, a brave hero emerged victorious over the Demon King, banishing him into confinement for a millennium. Unfortunately, it appears that the Demon King is plotting a comeback, compelling all descendants of the original hero to embark on a quest to defeat this formidable foe. Among these chosen individuals is Alba, an ordinary guy who finds himself unexpectedly thrust into this epic journey. Accompanying him on his adventure is Ross, a soldier whose well-intentioned actions often lead to unintended consequences for his companion.

Senyu. is a comedic anime that cleverly satirizes common fantasy conventions, particularly in its first season. While the sequel delves more into the overarching narrative, humor remains a central aspect of the show, consistently providing amusement to viewers. Clocking in at just four minutes per episode, Senyu. can be enjoyed in its entirety in less than two hours.

18 No Game No Life

Japanese Title	No Game No Life
Studio	Madhouse
Number of Episodes	12 (+ Movie)
Where to Stream	HIDIVE (Including Movie), Hulu

Imagine if conflicts were resolved not through words or physical confrontation, but through the outcome of a game. This is precisely the premise of No Game No Life. However, the author takes it a step further by introducing two reclusive siblings who happen to be the most skilled gamers in the entire world. As they find themselves transported to the enchanting realm of Disboard, the story only grows more captivating. No Game No Life is an extraordinary anime that boasts stunning artwork, a captivating soundtrack, endearing characters, and a truly original concept.

Sure, while there is a significant reliance on fanservice and referential humor, one cannot deny that Sora and Shiro stand out as remarkably unforgettable protagonists, making a second season for

17 Devilman Crybaby

a deeply coveted and well-deserved continuation.

Japanese Title	Devilman Crybaby
Studio	Science Saru
Number of Episodes	10
Where to Stream	Netflix

In contrast to many other series on this list, Devilman Crybaby does not follow a lighthearted or comedic path. While there are humorous moments, Devilman is primarily nihilistic, as intended by author Go Nagai. However, when Masaaki Yuasa was presented with the opportunity to create his own spin-off Devilman narrative, the darkness somehow intensified. This series can be seen as a psychological experiment with an abundance of violence, gore, and mature themes. Although it does not reach the same level of complexity as some other psychological anime, it is important to note that sadness or darkness does not equate to poor quality. In fact, Devilman Crybaby is exceptionally well-crafted, with a distinctive style, impressive animation, captivating rap scenes, compelling voice acting, horrifying elements, and thrilling action sequences.

16 Tomodachi Game

Japanese Title	Tomodachi Game
Studio	Okuruto Noboru
Number of Episodes	12
Where to Stream	Crunchyroll

Tomodachi Game is based on a shonen manga by Mikoto Yamaguchi. It revolves around five students who are thrown into a unique contest that tests the strength of their friendships. At the beginning, each student has the same amount of debt, but their choices can either distribute the blame evenly or unfairly burden their "friends." This gripping psychological drama takes high stakes to a whole new level, constantly delivering shocking revelations one after another.

15 AHO-GIRL

With its knack for cliffhangers, the anime engrosses viewers, captivating them completely. Despite being filled with unexpected twists and turns, Tomodachi Game remains faithful to its straightforward and comprehensible narrative. The story propels forward like a thrilling rollercoaster, accelerating with every passing moment.

Japanese Title	Aho Girl
Studio	Diomedéa
Number of Episodes	12 Shorts
Where to Stream	Crunchyroll

AHO-GIRL follows the antics of Yoshiko Hanabatake, an energetic and blunt girl who frequently annoys a guy named Akuru Akutsu. Despite her creativity, Yoshiko is primarily known for her idiocy. Akuru often bears the brunt of Yoshiko's foolishness and reacts in equally exaggerated ways.

The humor in AHO-GIRL relies heavily on slapstick and cringe-worthy moments, making it an acquired taste. However, the anime executes both elements effectively, and the role reversal of the main characters adds an amusing twist. With each episode lasting only 12 minutes, the comedic gags remain consistently entertaining without losing momentum.

14 Keep Your Hands Off Eizouken!

Japanese Title	Eizouken ni wa Te wo Dasu na!
Studio	Science Saru
Number of Episodes	12
Where to Stream	Crunchyroll

Keep Your Hands Off Eizouken is an absolutely delightful anime that deserves far more recognition than it currently receives. This show is undeniably popular, but it truly deserves double or even triple the amount of acclaim it presently enjoys. The series revolves around the captivating journey of three girls – Midori, Tsubame, and Kanamori – each possessing a unique love for art. While Kanamori is primarily motivated by monetary gain, all three girls exhibit remarkable dedication and determination as they collaboratively craft their own animations and projects. One could even classify this captivating narrative as a whimsical and enchanting slice of life tale, even though the genre is already saturated with countless offerings.

13 Detroit Metal City: The Animated Series

Japanese Title	Detroit Metal City
Studio	Studio 4°C
Number of Episodes	12
Where to Stream	N/A

Detroit Metal City is an exhilarating and twisted fantasy. Soichi yearns to create gentle and catchy pop tunes, devoid of any cruelty or innuendo. Unfortunately, as the frontman of a death metal band, he embodies everything he despises in the world during his on-stage performances. Nevertheless, he endures the charade for the sake of his livelihood, as long as his true identity remains concealed.

One could argue that Detroit Metal City revolves around a single joke, but it is an exceptionally amusing gag that the anime skillfully employs. Soichi's contrasting lives constantly collide in uproarious ways, and his metamorphosis into a metallic demon is always a spectacle to behold. For those seeking a disrespectful comedy that can be devoured in a mere two hours, Detroit Metal City surpasses expectations.

12 Golden Boy

Japanese Title	Golden Boy
Studio	APPP
Number of Episodes	6
Where to Stream	Crunchyroll

Golden Boy, a timeless anime comedy, features the iconic character Kintaro Oe, known for his perversion. With nothing but his attire, Kintaro embarks on a voyage across Japan, longing to experience the various facets of life while encountering numerous stunning women. As his educational and heartwarming expedition unfolds, Kintaro must continuously transform and adjust to ensure his survival.

11 Alice In Borderland

Golden Boy does not shy away from portraying Kintaro's insatiable desires for adult audiences. However, it manages to maintain a level of respectability throughout. Kintaro, as the unconventional yet endearing protagonist, wears his heart on his sleeve and is constantly striving for self-improvement. Golden Boy's humor has proven to withstand the test of time, making it suitable for those who appreciate a comedic touch.

Japanese Title	Imawa no Kuni no Alice
Studio	SILVER LINK.CONNECT
Number of Episodes	3
Where to Stream	HIDIVE

Alice in Borderland gained immense popularity after the success of its live-action adaptation on Netflix. While Haro Aso's manga is a highly enjoyable read, the TV show offers the best way to experience this story. In the greater context of the franchise's history, the 3-part anime serves as a mere footnote and falls short as a comprehensive introduction to this universe. Nonetheless, the animated series is enjoyable to watch and complements the manga well.

The OVA series follows Ryohei Arisu and his two friends as they are transported to an alternate version of Tokyo, a desolate and abandoned city. They soon discover that they have been recruited into a contest comprised of various life-or-death games. Throughout the series, a few games are played, and important secondary characters are introduced. While the adaptation doesn't have enough time to fully delve into its cast, it still provides entertainment value.

10 KanColle: Let's Meet At Sea

Japanese Title	KanColle: Itsuka Ano Umi de
Studio	ENGI
Number of Episodes	8
Where to Stream	Crunchyroll

KanColle is an unconventional property. It is a web browser game where historical warships are personified as women, set in the backdrop of World War 2. The franchise has expanded into two anime seasons and a movie, but the storyline of these adaptations is largely separate. The 2015 anime is generally light-hearted, yet not hesitant to explore darker themes when necessary. On the other hand, the 2022 series aims to present a more authentic portrayal of World War 2, within the confines of this fictional universe. Titled "Let's Meet at Sea," this new installment diverges significantly from its predecessor and can be enjoyed as a self-contained experience.

9 Gunbuster

KanColle: Let's Meet At Sea is bound to divide opinions, particularly due to its persistently melancholic atmosphere across its 8 episodes. The show faced numerous disruptions during its original airing, which hindered its flow, and the narrative is best experienced in one continuous viewing.

Japanese Title	Top wo Nerae! Gunbuster
Studio	Gainax
Number of Episodes	6 (Season 1) & 6 (Season 2)
Where to Stream	Crunchyroll (Season 2)

Gunbuster may initially seem like just another mecha anime, where a timid pilot proves their doubters wrong by defeating alien threats. However, it is much more than that. Throughout the six episodes of the original OVA series, Gunbuster combines well-animated action sequences with well-developed characters, particularly Noriko Takaya and Kazumi Amano. As the anime progresses, it only gets better, leading to a satisfying conclusion.

The sequel, Diebuster, is more complex and, therefore, divisive. Nonetheless, it is still enjoyable and worth a try for Gunbuster fans. However, the 2005 series only loosely connects to its predecessor, allowing viewers to binge-watch Gunbuster without concern for the sequel.

8 Terror In Resonance

Japanese Title	Zankyou no Terror
Studio	Mappa
Number of Episodes	11
Where to Stream	Crunchyroll

Renowned for his work on Cowboy Bebop and Samurai Champloo, Shinichiro Watanabe takes the helm in directing Terror in Resonance, his most tightly crafted project yet. With its abbreviated runtime, this anime leaves no room for respite, perfectly complementing the gripping narrative. The series revolves around two adolescents, Nine and Twelve, who orchestrate a series of terrorist acts in Tokyo. Their calculated methods minimize casualties but maximize societal unrest, keeping the police on high alert. If their riddle remains unsolved, they threaten to unleash an even more devastating assault.

7 BNA: Brand New Animal

Although the pair's motives evoke sympathy, their actions are not endorsed, thereby presenting a captivating moral quandary. Terror in Resonance immediately engrosses viewers with its compelling first four episodes and maintains its allure until the final moments.

Japanese Title	BNA
Studio	Trigger
Number of Episodes	12
Where to Stream	Netflix

Alright, let's be honest, Brand New Animal is essentially Trigger Studio's attempt to create an anime similar to Beastars. As is characteristic of most shows produced by Trigger, it captivates visually, but the writing doesn't quite match up to the exceptional animation.

That being said, for those who have watched any of Trigger's previous anime series like Gurren Lagann (still considered one of the finest mecha series available), Kill La Kill, or Little Witch Academia, this show follows a similar style, except the characters are anthropomorphic animals instead of magical beings, sentient clothing, or colossal robots. The storyline may not be the most intricate or captivating, but it guarantees an enjoyable experience from start to finish.