As 2023 comes to a close, anime fans are eagerly anticipating the upcoming releases in January 2024. Below, we've curated a list of the top eight anime to start the New Year with.
The anime industry continues to expand, with new masterpieces being released regularly. Just as one series ends, announcements for new series or sequels are frequently made.
The fall of 2023 was underwhelming for the anime community, with only a few highly anticipated titles like Jujutsu Kaisen and Spy X Family Season 2. However, the lineup for anime releases in January 2024 gives hope for an exciting year ahead for fans. Here are some of the standout anime that piqued our interest and we're sure will capture yours as well.
1. Classroom of the Elite Season 3
Classroom of the Elite, the gripping psychological thriller anime, is at last returning with a third season, leaving fans eager to uncover what the highly anticipated new season holds in store.
After the debut season, the anime community was abuzz with excitement over its intricate plot twists and the deep character development.
In Classroom of the Elite Season 3, the First Year Arc will come to a close, and viewers can expect to witness the students participating in a unique mixed training camp. This experience will require them to collaborate with both friends and rivals from various sections. Furthermore, there is anticipation for the season to reveal the true motives of the incredibly intelligent Ayanokouji.
Release date: January 3, 2024
2. Bottom-Tier Character Tomozaki Season 2
In 2021, Bottom-Tier Character Tomozaki Season 1 was released but didn't receive the deserved praise due to competition from popular titles like Horimiya. The renewal of the second season came as a surprise to fans.
For newcomers, Bottom-Tier Character Tomozaki follows the story of Tomozaki Fumiya, a skilled gamer who struggles in real life. Seeking guidance from classmate Aoi Hinami, he aims to improve his personal life.
Release date: January 3, 2024
3. Sasaki and Peeps
Sasaki and Peeps is a new anime that will enchant fans with its magical elements. The story follows Sasaki, a middle-aged office worker on the hunt for a new companion. After bringing home a bird named Peeps, he discovers that Peeps is no ordinary bird, but a magical Sage from another world.
Release date: January 5, 2024
4. Solo Leveling
Based on the popular Manhwa of the same name, Solo Leveling has been animated by A-1 Pictures, the studio responsible for Sword Art Online and Black Butler. Originally set for a 2023 release, the anime was delayed and is now set to debut in 2024. Anticipation is high, and it is expected to be one of the biggest anime of the year.
In a world overrun by deadly monsters, hunters work tirelessly to rid humanity of these creatures. The main character, Sung Jinwoo, is initially the weakest hunter, but gains powerful abilities from a mysterious program called System. With these newfound strengths, he must fight against the monsters threatening humanity.
Release date: January 6, 2024
5. One Piece (Egghead Island Arc)
The Wano Arc of the One Piece anime recently concluded, with the series now preparing to embark on the Egghead Island Arc. In addition to the Straw Hat Pirates, familiar characters from previous arcs like Blackbeard and Monkey D. Garp will be joined by the scientist Vegapunk in a prominent role.
The anime debut of this anticipated arc has been a popular topic of conversation within the community. Fans were particularly captivated by the vibrant new outfits revealed in promotional posters and teaser trailers.
Release date: January 7, 2024
6. TSUKIMICHI: Moonlit Fantasy Season 2
The Isekai anime TSUKIMICHI: Moonlight Fantasy is slated to make a comeback with a new season in January 2024, and we are eager for it to receive the support and recognition from fans.
Makoto possesses formidable powers that enable him to take on even the most formidable adversaries, including demons like Sofia Bulga and Mitsurugi. Upon realizing his strength, the goddess perceives him as a competitor. Meanwhile, Makoto seeks to form alliances with others of his kind.
Release date: January 8, 2024
7. Metallic Rouge
Another original anime series on the list comes from the popular animation studio, Bones, known for shows like Bungo Dogs, Fullmetal Alchemist, and Soul Eater.
Set in a world where androids known as Nenes coexist with humans, Metallic Rouge follows the story of a sinister group of Immortal beings that rise to invade human society. Their plans are thwarted by an android named Metal Rouge, also known as Rouge Redstar, and an investigator named Naomi Orthmann, who are determined to protect humanity from destruction.
Release date: January 10, 2024
8. BUCCHIGIRI?!
BUCCHIGIRI?! is a fresh anime series from MAPPA, the studio behind hit shows like Chainsaw Man and Jujutsu Kaisen. The original anime follows Arajin Tomoshibi as he sets out to reunite with his old friend Matakara Asamine, only to find themselves facing off against some dangerous enemies. As they try to return to normal, magical creatures appear, leading to an epic showdown.
Release date: January 13, 2024
All the above anime shows can be watched on Crunchyroll.
How to watch Crunchyroll from outside your location in 2023
Looking for the ultimate destination for streaming anime? Crunchyroll is your answer, offering a vast library of top titles like One Piece, Attack on Titan, and Jujutsu Kaisen. With the help of ExpressVPN, you can unlock access to Crunchyroll's complete collection from anywhere outside the US.
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Connect to any location in the US with Express VPN and choose from 24 different spots, from New Jersey to Santa Monica. Visit Crunchyroll online to stream all your favorite animes, and maybe discover some new ones.
Accessing the US roster on Crunchyroll offers a significant advantage. For instance, while Hong Kong users can only access less than 100 titles, the US provides access to nearly 1,000 movies and TV shows. Additionally, users can enjoy streaming anime for free with an ad-supported plan, or they can opt for a subscription, with the added option of a 14-day free trial for those who are undecided.
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Editor's P/S
As a Gen Z netizen, I am thrilled about the upcoming anime releases in January 2024. The lineup looks incredibly promising, with a diverse range of genres and styles to cater to different tastes. I am particularly excited about the third season of Classroom of the Elite, which has been one of my favorite anime series since its debut. The psychological thriller elements and intricate character development kept me hooked, and I can't wait to see what the new season has in store.
Another anime that has caught my attention is Solo Leveling. The Manhwa on which it is based has a massive fan following, and I have high expectations for the anime adaptation. The action-packed premise and the character's growth potential have me eagerly anticipating its release. Overall, I believe that January 2024 will be a fantastic month for anime fans, and I can't wait to dive into these new series and see what they have to offer.