Top Anime Of 2018: Must-Watch Recommendations
Hey anime fans! Are you looking for the best anime to watch from 2018? Well, you've come to the right place! 2018 was a fantastic year for anime, delivering a diverse range of shows that captured our hearts, blew our minds, and left us wanting more. From action-packed adventures to heartwarming romances and intriguing mysteries, there was something for everyone. So, let’s dive into some of the absolute must-watch anime series that 2018 had to offer. Get ready to update your watchlist, because these shows are totally worth your time!
A Place Further Than the Universe
A Place Further Than the Universe, also known as Yorimoi, is an absolute gem that came out in 2018. This anime tells the story of four high school girls who embark on an adventure to Antarctica. Now, I know what you might be thinking: "Antarctica? Really?" But trust me, this isn't just some random trip. It's a journey of self-discovery, friendship, and overcoming personal limitations. The main character, Mari Tamaki, nicknamed Kimari, is a high school student who dreams of experiencing something extraordinary but always ends up backing out at the last moment. That is, until she meets Shirase Kobuchizawa, a girl determined to find her mother who disappeared in Antarctica years ago. The two girls are joined by Hinata Miyake, an energetic girl who wants to escape her social life, and Yuzuki Shiraishi, a popular child actress looking for genuine friendship. Together, they face the challenges of traveling to one of the most remote places on Earth. What makes Yorimoi so special is its ability to blend comedy with heartfelt moments. You'll laugh, you'll cry, and you'll probably find yourself inspired to pursue your own dreams, no matter how impossible they may seem. The animation is gorgeous, capturing the stark beauty of Antarctica and the expressive emotions of the characters. The soundtrack is equally impressive, enhancing the emotional impact of each scene. A Place Further Than the Universe is not just an anime; it's an experience. It's a reminder that adventure is out there, waiting for us, and that sometimes, all it takes is a little courage and the right friends to make the impossible possible. If you haven't seen it yet, add it to your list now! You won't regret it.
Violet Evergarden
Violet Evergarden is another standout anime from 2018 that deserves all the praise it gets. Produced by Kyoto Animation, the studio known for its stunning visuals and emotional storytelling, Violet Evergarden tells the story of a young woman named Violet, a former soldier who struggles to reintegrate into society after the war. Having been raised as a weapon, Violet lacks the ability to understand human emotions. To find her purpose and understand the meaning of the words "I love you" that were told to her by her superior, Major Gilbert Bougainvillea, she becomes an Auto Memory Doll, writing letters for others. Through her work, Violet encounters a wide range of people and their stories, each letter she writes helping her to understand the complexities of human emotion. What sets Violet Evergarden apart is its breathtaking animation quality. Kyoto Animation truly outdid themselves with the detailed character designs, fluid movements, and stunning backgrounds. Each episode is a visual masterpiece, making it a treat for the eyes. But beyond the visuals, Violet Evergarden is a deeply emotional and thought-provoking story. It explores themes of loss, grief, love, and the importance of human connection. Violet's journey is one of self-discovery, as she learns to understand herself and the world around her. The series is filled with tear-jerking moments, but it's also incredibly uplifting, reminding us of the power of empathy and the beauty of human emotions. If you're looking for an anime that will tug at your heartstrings and leave you in awe of its artistic beauty, Violet Evergarden is a must-watch.
Devilman Crybaby
Devilman Crybaby is a wildly different beast compared to the previous two entries, but it's no less impactful. This anime, directed by Masaaki Yuasa and animated by Science SARU, is a modern adaptation of Go Nagai's classic manga, Devilman. The story follows Akira Fudo, a timid and compassionate young man who merges with a demon named Amon to become Devilman, a being with the power of a demon but the heart of a human. As Devilman, Akira must fight against other demons who are emerging into the human world, all while trying to protect his friends and loved ones. Devilman Crybaby is known for its distinct art style, which is both fluid and chaotic. Yuasa's unique direction brings a sense of energy and intensity to the series, perfectly capturing the madness and violence of the story. The anime is also notable for its bold and unapologetic exploration of mature themes, including violence, sexuality, and the nature of humanity. It's not for the faint of heart, but it's a powerful and thought-provoking experience. What makes Devilman Crybaby so compelling is its exploration of morality and the blurred lines between good and evil. Akira, as Devilman, struggles to maintain his humanity while battling demons, questioning whether his actions are justified. The series also raises questions about the nature of society and the darkness that lies within human beings. If you're looking for an anime that will challenge your perceptions and leave you thinking long after the credits roll, Devilman Crybaby is definitely worth checking out. Just be prepared for a wild and intense ride!
Aggretsuko
Switching gears entirely, we have Aggretsuko, a hilarious and relatable anime about a red panda named Retsuko who works as an office associate in a Japanese trading company. Retsuko appears to be a mild-mannered and docile employee, but beneath her calm exterior lies a volcano of frustration. To cope with her daily stress and annoyances, Retsuko unleashes her rage through death metal karaoke. Aggretsuko is a slice-of-life comedy that perfectly captures the struggles of modern working life. From annoying coworkers to demanding bosses, Retsuko deals with all the everyday frustrations that many of us can relate to. But what makes the series so special is its humor and its surprisingly insightful commentary on workplace dynamics and social expectations. Retsuko's death metal karaoke sessions are both hilarious and cathartic, providing a much-needed release for her pent-up emotions. The anime also explores themes of friendship, romance, and self-discovery, as Retsuko navigates the challenges of adulthood. The characters in Aggretsuko are all well-developed and relatable, each with their own unique quirks and personalities. The animation is simple but effective, perfectly capturing the comedic tone of the series. If you're looking for a lighthearted and funny anime that also offers some surprisingly insightful commentary on modern life, Aggretsuko is a must-watch. It's the perfect show to unwind with after a long day at work.
Megalo Box
Megalo Box is a thrilling sports anime that pays homage to the classic boxing manga and anime Ashita no Joe. Set in a futuristic world where boxers use mechanized exoskeletons called "Gear" to enhance their fighting abilities, Megalo Box tells the story of Junk Dog, an underground Megalo Boxer who fights in rigged matches to make a living. Frustrated with his situation, Junk Dog yearns for a real challenge. His life changes when he encounters Yuri, the champion of Megalo Box, and is inspired to enter the Megalonia tournament, the ultimate proving ground for Megalo Boxers. Megalo Box is a visually stunning anime with a gritty and stylish aesthetic. The animation is fluid and dynamic, perfectly capturing the intensity of the boxing matches. The soundtrack is equally impressive, featuring a mix of hip-hop and electronic music that adds to the series' cool and edgy vibe. But beyond its visual and audio appeal, Megalo Box is a compelling story about ambition, perseverance, and the pursuit of dreams. Junk Dog's journey is one of self-discovery, as he learns to overcome his limitations and fight for what he believes in. The series also explores themes of social inequality and the struggles of those living on the margins of society. If you're a fan of sports anime or just looking for a thrilling and visually stunning series, Megalo Box is a must-watch. It's a knockout of a show that will leave you on the edge of your seat.
Conclusion
So there you have it, folks! These are just a few of the best anime that 2018 had to offer. From heartwarming adventures to intense action and hilarious comedies, 2018 was a truly diverse and memorable year for anime. Whether you're a seasoned anime veteran or a newcomer to the world of Japanese animation, there's something on this list for everyone. So grab your popcorn, settle in, and get ready to experience some of the best anime that 2018 had to offer. Happy watching!