2023 was an incredible year for anime fans, with a wide variety of outstanding series across multiple genres. From long-awaited sequels to exciting new original works, there was no shortage of must-watch shows. After much deliberation, we’ve put together our definitive ranking of the top 20 anime that aired in 2023.
Whether you’re a hardcore otaku or a casual viewer, you won’t want to miss out on these amazing series that represent the pinnacle of Japanese animation over the past year. So let’s count down the 18 best anime of 2023, from epic adventures and heartwarming slice-of-life tales to pulse-pounding action and gut-busting comedies.
18. The Angel Next Door Spoils Me Rotten
- Studio: Project No.9
- Genres: Comedy, Romance, Slice of Life
- Episodes: 12
- Original Run: January 7, 2023 – March 25, 2023
The Angel Next Door Spoils Me Rotten is a heartwarming romantic comedy about an average high school boy and his beautiful neighbor. Amane Fujimiya is used to keeping to himself, but when the school’s “angel”, Mahiru Shiina, starts cooking and cleaning for him, his life takes an unexpected turn.
This sweet and lighthearted anime is the perfect comfort watch. The two leads have wonderful chemistry and watching their relationship slowly develop is a joy. With gorgeous visuals and a soothing soundtrack, The Angel Next Door Spoils Me Rotten is a delightful addition to the rom-com genre.
17. Trigun Stampede
- Studio: Orange
- Genres: Action, Adventure, Sci-Fi
- Episodes: 12
- Original Run: January 7, 2023 – March 25, 2023
A reboot of the classic 90s anime, Trigun Stampede brings the legendary gunslinger Vash the Stampede into the modern age with cutting-edge 3DCG animation. On the desert planet of No Man’s Land, Vash wanders from town to town, trying to keep a low profile despite the massive bounty on his head.
Trigun Stampede honors the spirit of the original while blazing its own trail with movie-quality visuals and updated designs. The kinetic action scenes are a real highlight, and Vash remains as charming as ever. Both newcomers and old fans will find plenty to love in this stylish space western.
16. Ayakashi Triangle
- Studio: Connect
- Genres: Action, Comedy, Romance, Supernatural
- Episodes: 12
- Original Run: January 10, 2023 – March 28, 2023
From the creator of Keijo!!!!!!!! comes another fanservice-heavy battle anime with a supernatural twist. Ayakashi Triangle follows ninja exorcist Matsuri Kazamaki, who is transformed into a girl by his childhood friend, the ayakashi Shirogane. Now Matsuri must adjust to his new body while fighting evil spirits alongside Shirogane and his other friend, Suzu Kanade.
Ayakashi Triangle is a wild ride, full of over-the-top action, raunchy comedy, and playful ecchi moments. But beneath the silliness is a story about identity, friendship, and acceptance. The dynamic between the three leads is the heart of the show, and their bonds are put to the test as they face increasingly powerful foes.
15. Tomo-chan Is a Girl!
- Studio: Lay-duce
- Genres: Comedy, Romance
- Episodes: 13
- Original Run: January 5, 2023 – March 30, 2023
Childhood friends Tomo Aizawa and Junichiro Kubota have always been close, but dense Junichiro only sees tomboyish Tomo as “one of the guys”. Determined to get him to notice her as a woman, Tomo enlists the help of their pretty boy classmate Misaki Gundo to give her a more feminine makeover.
A light and breezy romcom, Tomo-chan Is a Girl! is carried by the charming cast and their hilarious interactions. Tomo and Junichiro’s will-they-won’t-they relationship is the core of the story, and it’s a delight to watch the slow-witted Junichiro gradually realize his feelings. With fun visuals and a poppy soundtrack, this is an easy, feel-good watch.
14. Kubo Won’t Let Me Be Invisible
- Studio: Pine Jam
- Genres: Comedy, Romance, Slice of Life
- Episodes: 12
- Original Run: January 10, 2023 – March 28, 2023
Meet Junta Shiraishi, a guy so plain and unassuming that he’s practically invisible to his classmates. The only one who notices him is the popular and energetic Nagisa Kubo, who makes it her mission to put Shiraishi in the spotlight. But as Kubo helps Shiraishi come out of his shell, she starts to develop feelings that go beyond mere friendship.
Kubo Won’t Let Me Be Invisible is a sweet and relatable romcom with a pair of lovable leads. Shiraishi and Kubo’s opposite personalities play off each other perfectly, resulting in many memorably funny and heartwarming scenes. Elevated by beautiful watercolor-style art, this hidden gem about overcoming social anxiety is not to be missed.
13. Bofuri: I Don’t Want to Get Hurt, so I’ll Max Out My Defense. Season 2
- Studio: Silver Link
- Genres: Action, Adventure, Comedy, Fantasy
- Episodes: 12
- Original Run: January 12, 2023 – March 30, 2023
The adorable adventures of Maple and her overpowered shield continue in the second season of Bofuri. Now a seasoned player of the VRMMO NewWorld Online, Maple is ready to take on new challenges with her guild, Maple Tree. But as they explore uncharted territory and face fierce rivals, Maple’s unconventional play style leads to more hilarious mishaps.
Like its predecessor, Bofuri Season 2 is the ultimate feel-good fantasy. Watching Maple gleefully break the game with her maxed out defense never gets old, and the addition of new characters and abilities keeps things fresh. With eye-catching action and a generous helping of cute slice-of-life moments, this is a must-watch for fans of lighthearted isekai.
12. Nier: Automata Ver 1.1a
- Studio: A-1 Pictures
- Genres: Action, Sci-Fi
- Episodes: 12
- Original Run: January 8, 2023 – March 26, 2023
Based on the critically acclaimed video game, Nier: Automata Ver 1.1a is a stylish and thought-provoking sci-fi epic. On an Earth overrun by machine lifeforms from another world, androids 2B and 9S are deployed as part of a resistance force to take back the planet. But as they fight alongside other androids, the duo uncovers dark truths that shake the foundations of their reality.
A brilliant adaptation that captures the existential themes and haunting atmosphere of the source material, Nier: Automata Ver 1.1a is a visual and auditory feast, with fluid action scenes and a mesmerizing soundtrack. It’s a complex and emotionally resonant tale that explores the nature of humanity in a world where the line between man and machine is blurred.
11. Vinland Saga Season 2
- Studio: MAPPA
- Genres: Action, Adventure, Drama, Historical
- Episodes: 24
- Original Run: January 10, 2023 – June 27, 2023
The Viking epic Vinland Saga returns with a powerful second season that shifts the focus to Thorfinn’s personal journey of redemption. Haunted by his past as a child soldier, Thorfinn renounces violence and becomes a pacifist, working as a slave on a farm in Denmark. But when his old life catches up to him, Thorfinn must find a way to break the cycle of hatred and pursue his dream of a peaceful life in Vinland.
A stark contrast to the brutal warfare of Season 1, Vinland Saga Season 2 is a more introspective and character-driven story about a man struggling to find his place in a world shaped by violence. MAPPA’s stunning visuals bring the historical setting to life, and the nuanced writing adds depth to Thorfinn’s development. It’s a mature and moving tale of one man’s quest for atonement.
10. Kaina of the Great Snow Sea
- Studio: Polygon Pictures
- Genres: Adventure, Fantasy
- Episodes: 12
- Original Run: January 11, 2023 – March 29, 2023
In a world where the surface is covered in an ocean of snow, people live on giant trees that tower above the clouds. Kaina of the Great Snow Sea follows the story of Kaina, a boy from the canopy who meets Liliha, a girl from the surface, when she arrives in his village on a flying boat. As Kaina and Liliha explore the mysteries of their world, they uncover long-forgotten truths that could change everything.
A breathtaking original fantasy, Kaina of the Great Snow Sea boasts a fascinating setting, gorgeous CG animation, and a grand sense of adventure. The bond between Kaina and Liliha forms the emotional core of the story, as they learn and grow through their shared experiences. With its imaginative world-building and sweeping orchestral score, this is a captivating journey from start to finish.
9. Oshi no Ko
- Studio: Doga Kobo
- Genres: Drama, Supernatural
- Episodes: 11
- Original Run: April 13, 2023 – June 22, 2023
When a doctor is reincarnated as the child of his favorite idol, he vows to protect her from the dark side of the entertainment industry. But as young Aquamarine Hoshino navigates the world of showbiz with his twin sister Ruby, he discovers that the path to stardom is paved with scandal, exploitation, and broken dreams.
From the creator of Kaguya-sama: Love is War, Oshi no Ko is a gripping and sometimes disturbing look at the harsh realities behind the glitz and glamour of idol culture. It’s a story of ambition, sacrifice, and the price of fame, elevated by Doga Kobo’s polished visuals and a talented voice cast. While it has its share of lighthearted moments, this is a more serious and mature work that isn’t afraid to delve into the industry’s darkest corners.
8. Jujutsu Kaisen Season 2
- Studio: MAPPA
- Genres: Action, Supernatural
- Episodes: 23
- Original Run: July 6, 2023 – December 28, 2023
The smash hit shonen series Jujutsu Kaisen is back and better than ever in its second season. Divided into two cours, Season 2 first delves into the past with the “Hidden Inventory” arc, exploring the tragic backstory of Satoru Gojo and Suguru Geto. Then it returns to the present for the “Shibuya Incident” arc, as Yuji Itadori and his fellow jujutsu sorcerers face their greatest challenge yet when a group of powerful curses launch an attack on Tokyo.
With its electrifying action, memorable characters, and dark urban fantasy setting, Jujutsu Kaisen remains one of the most exciting and stylish battle shonen around. MAPPA once again delivers jaw-dropping animation that brings Gege Akutami’s bold art style to life, and the storytelling reaches new emotional heights as it reveals the origins of Gojo and Geto’s doomed friendship. Season 2 cements Jujutsu Kaisen‘s status as a modern classic.
7. Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba – Swordsmith Village Arc
- Studio: ufotable
- Genres: Action, Supernatural
- Episodes: 11
- Original Run: April 9, 2023 – June 18, 2023
Demon Slayer continues its unstoppable momentum with another stellar season adapting the Swordsmith Village arc. After the events of the Entertainment District, Tanjiro Kamado and his Demon Slayer Corps allies head to the hidden Swordsmith Village to repair their weapons and recover. But trouble follows close behind as two Upper Rank demons, Gyokko and Hantengu, launch an attack on the village.
Ufotable’s jaw-dropping animation reaches new heights in this action-packed arc, delivering some of the most visually stunning demon-slaying yet. But it’s not all non-stop battles, as the Swordsmith Village also offers quieter character moments and a deeper dive into the lore of the series. With its unbeatable combination of heart and spectacle, Demon Slayer shows no signs of slowing down.
6. Heavenly Delusion
- Studio: Production I.G
- Genres: Adventure, Mystery, Sci-Fi
- Episodes: 13
- Original Run: April 1, 2023 – June 24, 2023
In a post-apocalyptic Japan where the last remnants of humanity live in isolated colonies, a sheltered boy named Maru sets out on a journey to find heaven. He meets Kiruko, a mysterious girl with strange powers, and together they brave the dangers of the outside world, searching for answers about their reality.
A haunting and beautifully crafted sci-fi mystery, Heavenly Delusion is a feast for the senses, with Production I.G’s lush visuals and atmospheric soundtrack creating an immersive experience. The story slowly unravels its secrets through Maru and Kiruko’s journey, building to mind-bending revelations about the nature of their world. It’s a thought-provoking and emotionally resonant tale that lingers long after the final episode.
5. Attack on Titan: The Final Season – Part 3
- Studio: MAPPA
- Genres: Action, Dark Fantasy
- Episodes: 2
- Original Run: March 4, 2023 – November 4, 2023
The epic conclusion to the global phenomenon Attack on Titan arrives in two special hour-long episodes. In the aftermath of the Rumbling, the remaining members of the Survey Corps make a last desperate stand against Eren’s world-ending plan. Faced with impossible choices and heartbreaking sacrifices, Mikasa, Armin, and the others fight to break the cycle of violence and restore freedom to the world.
MAPPA pulls out all the stops for Attack on Titan‘s grand finale, with movie-quality animation and a sweeping score that heightens the emotional impact of every scene. It’s a thrilling and cathartic end to one of the greatest anime sagas of all time, a story of the human spirit triumphing over oppression and despair. Attack on Titan leaves an indelible mark on the medium, cementing its place in the pantheon of anime greats.
4. Mob Psycho 100 III
- Studio: Bones
- Genres: Action, Comedy, Supernatural
- Episodes: 12
- Original Run: October 1, 2023 – December 24, 2023
The psychic prodigy Shigeo “Mob” Kageyama is back for his third and possibly final season, once again under the masterful direction of Yuzuru Tachikawa at Studio Bones. As Mob navigates the challenges of his second year of middle school, he also faces new supernatural threats that push his already immense powers to even greater heights.
Mob Psycho 100 has always been a visual feast, with some of the most creative and dynamic animation in the industry. Season 3 takes it to another level, delivering jaw-dropping psychic battles and beautifully surreal imagery that perfectly captures the series’ unique blend of action, humor, and heart. But it’s not just style over substance – Mob’s journey of self-discovery and the colorful cast of characters around him remain as compelling as ever.
3. Spy x Family Part 2
- Studios: Wit Studio, CloverWorks
- Genres: Action, Comedy, Slice of Life
- Episodes: 13
- Original Run: October 1, 2023 – December 24, 2023
The lovable Forger family of spies returns for the second half of Spy x Family‘s first season. Twilight, Yor, and Anya continue their mission to maintain world peace while keeping their true identities secret from each other. But as new threats emerge and Anya’s unpredictable psychic powers cause more chaos, the family’s bonds are put to the test.
Part 2 maintains the irresistible charm and humor that made the first half such a breakout hit. The addition of new characters like the clairvoyant dog Bond and Anya’s rival Damian Desmond shake up the family dynamic in hilarious ways. Wit Studio and CloverWorks’ vibrant animation brings the manga’s most memorable moments to life, from intense spy action to adorable chibi faces. Heartwarming and hilarious, Spy x Family solidifies its place as one of the most entertaining anime in recent years.
2. Kaguya-sama: Love is War – Ultra Romantic
- Studio: A-1 Pictures
- Genres: Comedy, Romance
- Episodes: 13
- Original Run: April 9, 2023 – June 25, 2023
The romantic comedy masterpiece Kaguya-sama: Love is War reaches new heights in its third season, subtitled Ultra Romantic. Shuchiin Academy’s prideful geniuses Miyuki Shirogane and Kaguya Shinomiya continue their battle of wits and wills, each determined to make the other confess their love first. But as their feelings deepen and new challenges arise, the war takes on a different shape.
Ultra Romantic is a non-stop barrage of hilarity, delivering the series’ trademark rapid-fire jokes, fourth wall breaks, and over-the-top visuals with even more wit and energy than before. But it’s also the most emotionally resonant season yet, with poignant character moments that hit hard amidst the laughter. The long-awaited culture festival arc is a particular highlight, paying off years of build-up with a cathartic and swoon-worthy climax. A rom-com at the peak of its powers, Kaguya-sama Season 3 will have you in stitches one minute and in tears the next.
1. Chainsaw Man
- Studio: MAPPA
- Genres: Action, Dark Fantasy, Horror
- Episodes: 12
- Original Run: October 12, 2023 – December 28, 2023
The most anticipated anime of 2023 did not disappoint. Chainsaw Man, Tatsuki Fujimoto’s wild and bloody manga sensation, explodes onto the screen in a dazzling adaptation by the always impressive MAPPA. The story follows Denji, a poor young man who becomes a human-devil hybrid with chainsaws for arms and head. Recruited into the Public Safety Devil Hunters, Denji fights to survive in a cruel and unforgiving world.
From the first frame to the last, Chainsaw Man is a relentless assault on the senses, with eye-popping visuals, bone-crunching action, and gallons of blood and guts. But beneath the ultraviolence is a surprisingly thoughtful and subversive story about the human condition, with complex characters and themes of love, loss, and the search for purpose in a meaningless existence. MAPPA’s animation is a perfect match for Fujimoto’s bold and frenetic art style, bringing every devil and chainsaw to visceral life.
Raw, rebellious, and utterly unforgettable, Chainsaw Man isn’t just the best anime of 2023 – it’s an instant classic that redefines what the medium is capable of. A must-watch for anyone who loves boundary-pushing storytelling and balls-to-the-wall insanity.
And there you have it – the 18 best anime of 2023, a truly incredible year for the medium. Whether you’re a hardcore fan or a curious newcomer, these series represent the pinnacle of what Japanese animation has to offer, from heartwarming slice-of-life to mind-melting action and everything in between.
So what are you waiting for? Fire up those streaming services and dive into the wild, wonderful world of anime. With so many amazing shows to choose from, there’s never been a better time to be a fan. Here’s to another year of unforgettable stories, characters, and experiences. Anime is truly forever.
