Unbelievable Anime Gems on Hulu You Won't Believe You've Missed!

With an abundance of anime series available on streaming platforms like Hulu, it's inevitable that certain underrated shows can go unnoticed. Despite lacking the recognition they deserve, these shows possess various appealing qualities that could captivate a wide fan base. Surprisingly, some of these overlooked series have been in existence for almost two decades.

Whether it's an enthralling story, a charming ensemble of characters, or visually stunning animation, numerous anime series fail to receive the attention they merit. Although Hulu may not be the primary streaming service that comes to mind for anime enthusiasts, its collection includes beloved classics and lesser-known gems. While dedicated fans may already be familiar with most of the anime on Hulu, newcomers to the genre beyond the mega-hits have a plethora of options that may have slipped under the radar.

10 K Project (2012)

K Project is a visually stunning animated series that captivates viewers with its beautiful opening sequence, gripping storyline, and diverse range of intriguing characters. The show revolves around the life of high school student Yashiro Isana, who finds himself embroiled in a web of supernatural occurrences when he becomes wrongly accused of murder by various organizations. However, Yashiro's true nature holds more secrets than initially apparent, and the series delves into his journey as he navigates the perilous situations surrounding him and the extensive ensemble cast of K Project.

In addition to its two seasons, K Project boasts a 2014 movie titled "K: Missing Kings" and a collection of related manga and light novels, expanding the world beyond the confines of the anime. Praised for its unique and top-notch animation, K Project maintains its high quality throughout its entirety. Furthermore, the series effectively weaves together the multifaceted narratives of its characters, providing insight into their past experiences and relationships that have shaped them into the individuals they are today.

9 Gangsta. (2015)

Set in Ergastulum, a city plagued by crime, Gangsta. follows two hired mercenaries named Worick and Nic, who join forces with newly recruited Alex Benedetto. The story delves into the evolving relationships between Alex and the two "Handymen" mercenaries as she becomes acquainted with them and learns more about the society they inhabit. This society is divided between humans and "Twilights," superhumans who face distressing discrimination.

Based on Kohske's manga series, the anime aired for one season in 2015. Unfortunately, the bankruptcy of the animating studio resulted in an unfinished storyline, despite the ongoing manga. Nevertheless, Kohske's Gangsta. deserves attention due to its visually stunning style, intricate characters, and engrossing world and plot. Kohske has faced health challenges, leading to sporadic hiatuses for Gangsta., but she continues to work on the series when her health permits.

8 Tiger & Bunny (2011)

Tiger & Bunny experienced a significant resurgence in 2022 with the release of its long-awaited second season, ten years after the initial premiere. The show takes place in a society where being a hero is a legitimate and highly commercialized profession, elevating these heroes to celebrity status and subjecting them to constant public scrutiny. Despite the intense focus on fame, all of the heroes, including the central figures Kotetsu "Wild Tiger" Kaburagi and Barnaby "Bunny" Brooks Jr. from the city of Stern Bild, genuinely prioritize the safety and well-being of their city and its inhabitants.

The first season primarily explores the evolving partnership between Tiger & Bunny as crime-fighting allies. However, it delves into the lives of the other captivating characters, shedding light on their personal stories and aspirations. Season 2 further delves into this intricate world, delving into the newly introduced "Buddy System" where heroes fight crime in pairs. As a whole, Tiger & Bunny is a captivating series that skillfully combines humor, heartwarming moments, and thrilling action. Its premise tackles profound and thought-provoking themes, featuring a diverse cast that includes characters representing the LGBTQ+ and gender-nonconforming communities.

7 The Deer King (2021)

The Deer King, directed by Masashi Ando, a former Studio Ghibli Alumnus, is a captivating film based on Nahoko Uehashi's novel series. It follows the thrilling journey of Van, a former warrior, and Yuna, a young girl he rescued from the clutches of the mysterious disease-carrying Ossam dogs. Having survived this ordeal, they become sought after by different groups who believe they may hold the key to curing Black Wolf Fever.

Premiering in 2021 and arriving in the US in 2022, The Deer King enchants viewers with its breathtaking animation set in a magnificent fantasy world. It delves into the themes of creating a family out of unexpected bonds and the undeniable significance of compassion in a fear-stricken society. With its heartwarming moments, thought-provoking narrative, and stunning visuals reminiscent of beloved Studio Ghibli movies like Princess Mononoke, The Deer King is rightfully regarded as a hidden gem.

6 Mushi-shi (2005)

Mushi-shi, a 2005 anime based on the serialized work of Yuki Urushibara, follows the captivating journey of Gingko, the main character, as he safeguards individuals from supernatural creatures called Mushi. Beyond its intriguing premise, Mushi-shi is an aesthetically pleasing series that captivates viewers with its thoughtfulness and tranquility. While the story delves into otherworldly phenomena, it also embraces introspective moments, exploring the intricate relationships between the human inhabitants of this extraordinary world. Additionally, Mushi-shi spans two seasons and offers various forms of media, including artbooks, animated and live-action films, OVAs, video games, and more. Although only the first season has been dubbed, both seasons are available for streaming with subtitles on numerous platforms.

5 Bakuman (2010)

Bakuman is an entertaining comedy anime set in a slice-of-life world. It debuted in Fall 2010 and spans three seasons. The story revolves around Mashiro and Takagi, a dynamic duo with a burning desire to make it big in the manga industry. Throughout their journey, they encounter both triumphs and tribulations, using each experience as a lesson on their path to success. While the narrative predominantly focuses on their quest to break into the industry, it also delves into the blossoming romance between Mashiro and his crush, Miho Azuki, who aspires to become a voice actress in the future.

The release of a live-action film, video game, and novels based on Mashiro and Takagi's eventual works, along with the success of the manga and subsequent anime, surprised viewers as it was written by the original author of the popular series Death Note. It provided an insightful glimpse into the world of manga creation and told a lighthearted story.

4 Noragami (2014)

Noragami is an anime adaptation of the manga series of the same name, which falls under the supernatural urban-fantasy genre. The manga was created by the talented duo, Adachitoka. The story revolves around Hiyori Iki, a middle school student who experiences moments where her soul separates from her body due to a tragic accident. Through these extraordinary occurrences, Hiyori becomes aware of the coexistence of two parallel worlds known as the Near Shore and the Far Shore. She also encounters Yato, a god without a name, who is determined to prove his worth. Joined by Yato's weapon, Yukine, who was once a human spirit, Hiyori and Yato embark on numerous thrilling journeys.

3 D.Gray-Man (2006)

The Noragami manga's journey is drawing to a close with the upcoming release of its 27th volume by the end of this year. However, there is still no news regarding the highly anticipated third season that would further explore the captivating storyline presented in the manga. Devoted fans of the series wholeheartedly embrace Noragami's distinctive aesthetic and style, the multifaceted and dynamically portrayed characters, as well as its masterful storytelling that surpasses expectations and warrants greater recognition.

D.Gray-Man, based on the beautifully illustrated manga by Katsura Hoshino, is an anime series. It is set in an alternate world during the 19th century and follows the journey of Allen Walker. The protagonist joins The Black Order, an organization of exorcists. The original anime, consisting of 103 episodes, diverged from the ongoing storyline of the manga and concluded. However, a new series called D.Gray-man Hallow was later created to continue where the anime left off. The manga, which is published in Jump SQ, is still ongoing.

2 Kimi Ni Todoke (2009)

D.Gray-Man presents a fundamentally dark narrative, albeit with intermittent moments of comedy. Its central themes entail intricate characters who have endured their own personal tragedies, residing in a realm that transcends simplistic notions of right and wrong. The initially depicted 'good' forces gradually unveil shades of ambiguity as the series progresses, evoking a captivating and intricate saga that only deepens with each new revelation.

Kimi Ni Todoke, a delightful romantic-comedy slice-of-life series, is a captivating adaptation of the manga by Karuho Shiina. It follows the journey of Sawako Kuronuma, a high school student who longs for genuine friendship. Unfortunately, her peers often subject her to teasing and spread false rumors about her, largely due to her perceived ominous appearance. Nevertheless, Sawako is a kind-hearted girl who experiences a breakthrough when she starts conversing with the popular boy, Shota Kazahaya. As the story unfolds, new relationships are forged, and the characters navigate through the joys and challenges of their everyday high school lives.

Kimi Ni Todoke's success has led to the creation of various additional media properties, including a live-action movie, a video game, and light novels. Fans are captivated by the series' delightful and humorous tones, and they appreciate how Sawako's experiences contribute to her increasing self-confidence over time. Ultimately, this endearing tale of self-acceptance and love deserves more attention, especially from shojo enthusiasts.

1 The World Ends With You: The Animation (2021)

Despite The World Ends With You video game's popularity, many fans may be unaware of its 2021 anime adaptation. Spanning 12 episodes, the series aims to capture the game's distinctive art style and overall aesthetic. Viewers are immersed in Neku Sakuraba's story as he finds himself transported to another realm, forced to participate in the Reapers' Game to survive. Along his journey, Neku encounters various characters, forming reluctant partnerships with them to gain the strength to endure. As time passes, these alliances evolve into genuine friendships, all while Neku strives to unravel the mystery of his forgotten past.

Although a second game titled Neo: The World Ends With You was released in 2021, it remains uncertain if another season of the animation will be produced. Undoubtedly, both fans of the game and newcomers will find this animated series a refreshing way to delve into the captivating tales of Neku and his friends, making it well worth watching.

Not every anime receives the recognition it truly deserves, as there is limited time in the spotlight. However, thanks to the multitude of options available on streaming platforms, viewers now have the chance to discover hidden gems at any given moment. For anime enthusiasts who have access to Hulu, considering these underappreciated series could be a promising addition to their watchlist when craving something new.