Popularity does not always determine the quality of a production. While many anime masterpieces gain global recognition, some become hidden gems discovered by only a small audience. Although they may not reach wider audiences, these rare anime succeed in offering unforgettable emotional journeys, forging deep connections with the viewers who give them a chance.
8. Ef: A Tale of Memories
Some visual novel adaptations have become global hits, such as the Fate Series or Aria: The Animation. However, there are still hidden gems waiting to be discovered, and Ef: A Tale of Memories is one of them. Combining drama and romance, the production features a powerful narrative that follows two parallel love stories.
Although its art style is characteristic of the 2000s, it serves as a wonderful follow-up for fans of Clannad and other Key anime. It stands out with its visual storytelling; the animation quality is comparable to modern productions and showcases the excellent craftsmanship of Studio Shaft. The anime was even shaped at the storyboard stage by the legendary director Makoto Shinkai and is graced with magnificent music. Its sequel series, Ef: A Tale of Melodies, takes this music to an even higher level. Ef: A Tale of Memories masterfully blends mystery, melodrama, and sorrow without becoming overly pessimistic, offering a profoundly moving and unforgettable experience for the viewer.
7. Yatagarasu: The Raven Does Not Choose Its Master
Yatagarasu is arguably one of the most underrated anime of 2024. Set in a fantasy kingdom called Yamauchi, the story is about a race that can transform into three-legged crows. Each region is divided among noble families who compete for power amidst intrigue, murder, and secrets within the palace.
Unfortunately, the supernatural elements of the work were overlooked by most viewers; the anime was mistaken for a conventional historical drama and was overshadowed by the other popular production set in an imperial court, The Apothecary Diaries. While its slow pace may challenge some viewers, it manages to captivate them once it reveals its true charm. With complex characters like Crown Prince Wakamiya, it unveils a world subjected to the schemes and manipulations of different factions. Consequently, Yatagarasu is filled with political intrigue, secrets, and a surprising plot, making it a perfect recommendation for viewers who enjoy complex games of thrones.
6. Casshern Sins
Casshern Sins is a remake of Neo-Human Casshern, released by Tatsunoko Production in 1973. Although it preserves the visual identity and character designs of the original, this anime stands out not as a faithful remake but as a completely new, dark, and introspective story.
Produced by Madhouse, the series is set in a post-apocalyptic world doomed to extinction. Rusted robots search for immortality against their inevitable end. At the center of this world is the young Casshern, who does not remember his past but is connected to the decay of reality. Although Casshern frequently engages in battles, the main focus of the production is not action. Instead, it is a deep philosophical journey that questions death, the price of immortality, and the hardships of life. Casshern’s travels bring with them significant moral conflicts and valuable lessons.
5. Bokurano
Very few productions have managed to deconstruct the fundamental elements of anime as powerfully as Bokurano. What at first appears to be an innocent story about a group of children piloting a giant robot soon evolves into something far darker and more realistic than expected. Adapted from Mohiro Kitoh’s manga, the anime takes the core concept of the popular children’s series Matchless Raijin-Oh and transforms it into a bleak, fatalistic, and human story.
Although the anime took some creative liberties in its second half and has been criticized for its 3D animation, which may be considered lacking by today’s standards, it is a must-watch for science fiction and mecha fans. Bokurano explores the drama and fear experienced by people thrust into a perilous situation. In each episode, the mysterious plot unravels a little more, drawing the viewer into a dark and deceptive world. The work has also been respectfully noted for its many parallels with Puella Magi Madoka Magica.
4. House of Five Leaves
As one of the most underappreciated samurai anime, House of Five Leaves went unnoticed by many viewers even during its broadcast in Japan. Adapted from the manga by Natsume Ono, who also created ACCA: 13-Territory Inspection Dept. and Ristorante Paradiso, the work tells the story of a ronin who joins a group called the “Five Leaves”.
House of Five Leaves reveals the less glamorous side of feudal Japan. It presents a realistic depiction of the era’s hardships and society while painting a different portrait of a ronin through the character of Masanosuke. Unlike traditional samurai figures, Masanosuke is insecure and timid. Although its slow-paced narrative and lack of epic sword fights like those in Rurouni Kenshin or Sword of the Stranger may not appeal to some, it has managed to captivate viewers with its complex and compelling characters, strong direction, and music.
3. Romeo’s Blue Skies
Romeo’s Blue Skies is part of the World Masterpiece Theatre catalog, which includes classic anime such as Anne of Green Gables and Heidi, Girl of the Alps. Moreover, masters from Studio Ghibli, Hayao Miyazaki and Isao Takahata, also worked on these series. However, despite gaining popularity in Middle Eastern countries, Romeo’s Blue Skies did not achieve the same fame worldwide.
Adapted from the German-Swiss novel The Black Brothers, the anime tells the story of Romeo, who is sold into servitude and tries to survive as a chimney sweep in a large, unfamiliar city. The friendship Romeo forms with another boy, Alfredo, plays a vital role in his life. With a characteristic 90s art style and a strong Ghibli influence, the production captures the essence of Milan. Romeo’s Blue Skies stands out as a retro anime treasure that emphasizes the importance of friendship and teamwork, balancing warm moments with intense drama.
2. Den-noh Coil
Released in 2007, Den-noh Coil is a cult classic that has received much critical acclaim; however, it remains largely unknown among the general audience. While virtual reality gained popularity thanks to hit anime like Serial Experiments Lain, Den-noh Coil approaches technology differently. It builds an original and detailed world where the lines between fiction and reality are blurred.
The story is set in a near future where augmented reality glasses have become an integral part of daily life. These glasses, central to the children’s games and adventures, are not as harmless as they seem; technological progress brings darker consequences for humanity. Den-noh Coil blends multiple genres such as comedy, romance, and thriller, offering mysteries, philosophical debates, and moral dilemmas. It is distinguished by its depiction of a society firmly connected to today’s world but belonging to the future. With its strong visual style and emotional moments, it is a masterpiece that science fiction fans must watch.
1. Planetes
As one of the best seinen anime ever made, Planetes is a masterpiece from the creator of Vinland Saga; however, it has not received the same level of attention and praise. Despite being a science fiction series set in space in the year 2075, it features neither giant robots nor epic galactic wars.
Planetes is a realistic anime that offers a serious look at human development and space exploration. With slice-of-life touches, it reflects interpersonal interactions and the dynamics of living together. Rather than getting bogged down in technical scientific details, it focuses on the characters’ development and their philosophical thoughts on Earth and space. One of the series’ greatest strengths is its realistic portrayal of the various relationships, experiences, and problems the characters face, which makes them unique. Furthermore, Planetes boasts masterful production quality that powerfully conveys the vastness of space and the story’s realism to the viewer. It thereby offers viewers a unique visual experience they will not regret.