Over the years, the anime industry has seen the rise of fan service as a common trend, crossing all genres and demographics. While there is nothing inherently wrong with its presence and the appreciation it receives from fans, it is not everyone's preference. For those seeking anime without fan service, there are plenty of options to explore.
It's worth noting that anime series known for their fan service can still be good in their own right. However, for those who prefer to avoid it completely, there is a wide range of alternatives available. These shows prioritize plot development and mood setting, making gratuitous scenes unnecessary.
10 Death Parade
9 Spy x Family
When a show attempts to explore deep philosophical concepts, like the meaning of life and death, there is often a risk of oversimplifying and delivering a shallow and unrefined message. However, Death Parade distinguishes itself by genuinely portraying various perspectives and addressing the inherent complexities of the systems in place. In this series, individuals who pass away simultaneously neither ascend to heaven nor descend to hell; instead, they find themselves in a bar, where they must engage in a game that determines their ultimate fate. However, this seemingly straightforward game is far from simple.
In the midst of an ongoing secret information war that threatens to undermine the peace talks between neighboring countries Ostania and Westalis, an unlikely group is forced to play the role of a family. Tasked with gathering intelligence on a corrupt politician, Westalis' highly skilled spy, codenamed "Twilight," embarks on a mission that requires him to pose as Yor's husband. Yor, known as the "Thorn Princess," is one of Ostania's deadliest assassins. Furthermore, he must also pretend to be the father of Anya, a hidden esper with telepathic abilities. As they conceal their true identities from one another, their interactions become both heartwarming and hilarious.
8 Violet Evergarden
7 Mob Psycho 100
Violet Evergarden tells the tale of its namesake, a young woman who has only known the harsh realities of war. After the conflict ends, she is left adrift, unsure of her purpose. When she discovers the concept of Auto Memory Dolls, she decides to become one herself, driven by the desire to comprehend human thoughts and convey their messages. While the series revolves around Violet, it equally focuses on the individuals she encounters during her journey. Each client she interacts with has a deeply moving and authentic backstory, making Violet's personal growth a captivating experience from start to finish.
In Mob Psycho 100, we follow the story of Shigeo Kageyama, also known as "Mob," a seemingly ordinary boy with extraordinary psychic powers. Despite his desire to blend in, Mob grapples with the immense strength of his abilities, which he realizes can be more harmful than helpful. To maintain control, Mob must constantly suppress his emotions, but when they become overwhelming, he is unable to contain his powers any longer. Created by the mastermind behind One Punch Man, this incredible series seamlessly combines action and comedy, featuring stunning animation and a distinctive art style that leaves a lasting impression.
6 Kino's Journey
Kino's Journey chronicles the escapades of Kino, the main protagonist, and their trusty talking motorcycle companion, Hermes, as they embark on an extensive road trip. This expedition serves a dual purpose of expanding their knowledge of the world and discovering their true selves. Travelling through diverse nations, each characterized by distinct traditions and societal norms, their encounters range from deeply sorrowful to bewilderingly ambiguous in terms of morality. However, both Kino and Hermes refrain from attempting to manipulate the world or shape the societies they encounter; instead, they assume the role of mere observers. Their extraordinary adventures vividly demonstrate that the world derives its beauty from its inherent flaws and imperfections.
5 Kaguya-sama: Love is War
Regardless of the medium, romantic comedies, or romcoms, have now become a universally established genre. However, they often carry a reputation for lacking inspiration and originality. Kaguya-sama: Love is War defies this notion entirely, proving that the world will never cease to produce innovative ideas. This title showcases that romcoms can be just as exceptional as any other genre. The narrative revolves around Kaguya Shinomiya and Miyuki Shirogane, prominent members of an esteemed high school's student council. Despite harboring feelings for one another, their pride prevents them from confessing their love, resulting in a constant battle of hidden emotions every single day.
4 Ya Boy Kongming!
As common as stories about reincarnation may be in the medium, there is no other title quite like Ya Boy Kongming! It stands out not only due to its unique premise but also because of its exceptional quality. The narrative revolves around Zhuge Kongming, a renowned strategist from China's Three Kingdoms era, who is reborn in modern-day Japan. Here, he crosses paths with Eiko Tsukimi, an aspiring singer. Deeply moved by her exceptional voice and determined to help her achieve the recognition and success she deserves, Kongming decides to become her manager. Surprisingly, his application of ancient war strategies to the modern entertainment industry results in a truly enjoyable and one-of-a-kind show.
3 Keep Your Hands Off Eizouken!
Few titles are as iconic in the world of anime as Keep Your Hands Off Eizouken! This series revolves around the awe-inspiring process of conceptualizing and crafting animation. It centers on a one-of-a-kind school club known as the animation club. The members include Midori Asakusa, a curious and imaginative girl who delights in drawing backgrounds and weaving stories, Sayaka Kanamori, the pragmatic and down-to-earth member who serves as the producer, and Tsubame Misuzaki, a talent who adores the human form and finds joy in bringing stories to life through animation. A heartfelt homage to animation in all its forms, this show is an absolute must-watch for anyone passionate about the medium.
2 Oshi No Ko
A title that made waves in the anime world upon its initial release, Oshi No Ko stands apart as more than just another typical reincarnation story. While it may bear superficial similarities to other idol shows, a deeper examination reveals stark differences between the two. Instead of solely focusing on the endeavors and aspirations of idols, Oshi No Ko delves into the weightier issues that inherently permeate the entertainment industry, presenting itself as a decidedly more mature offering. The tale of Ai Hoshino and her children is truly unparalleled, delivering a profound and unforgettable experience.
1 Any Studio Ghibli Film
When it comes to favorite titles, many fans of the medium inevitably bring up Studio Ghibli, a cherished studio in the anime industry. Interestingly, what sets this studio apart is its departure from the conventional, opting for personal narratives rather than epic exploits. Additionally, the studio's distinctive and timeless animation style ensures instant recognition of every film. However, determining the best Studio Ghibli movie is an impossible task; each title possesses its own uniqueness, and every anime enthusiast has their own special connection to a particular film.
Among the abundance of titles that consistently incorporate fan service, it can be tempting to assume that finding an anime devoid of such scenes is a challenging task. Nonetheless, this compilation convinces us otherwise, showcasing the vast array of options available. Ranging from delightful tales of love and laughter to profound narratives delving into the essence of existence, mankind, and the intricate facets of our reality, this selection encompasses virtually every conceivable genre and theme. Within this remarkable collection, we present to you some of the finest anime that successfully exclude any form of fan service.