As the summer fades away, a fresh wave of fall anime has arrived, offering a mix of surprises, disappointments, and undeniable gems. While there’s a noticeable lack of spooky, season-appropriate content, save for one unfortunate adaptation, there’s still plenty to get excited about. This season brings a standout newcomer, a few nostalgic returns, and an array of visual delights. Here’s a breakdown of the best anime premieres of fall 2024.
Dishonorable Mention: Uzumaki (Adult Swim)
After a promising premiere that gave hope for a successful anime adaptation of Junji Ito’s Uzumaki, the second episode took a dramatic nosedive. The visual quality dropped significantly, hinting at a behind-the-scenes shake-up in the animation team. What was once a visually gripping horror experience quickly turned lackluster, leaving fans feeling disappointed and misled.
Honorable Mentions
Blue Box
This charming romance/sports anime pairs a sweet love story with athletic competition. It’s not the most groundbreaking series, but the sharp visuals and character dynamics make it enjoyable. The story centers on two teen athletes who bond through mutual training, leading to some delightful “will-they-won’t-they” moments. The show’s standout feature is the character Hina, whose mischievous energy adds a refreshing spark to an otherwise conventional setup.
Negative Positive Angler
In contrast to its somber start, Negative Positive Angler has already established itself as an uplifting series about finding joy in unexpected places. The protagonist, after receiving devastating news, is introduced to a group of anglers whose passion for fishing helps pull him out of despair. By focusing on the therapeutic potential of a simple hobby, the series offers a heartwarming take on community and healing.
Sword Art Online Alternative: Gun Gale Online (Season 2)
While the second season’s debut was underwhelming, Sword Art Online Alternative has enough goodwill from previous seasons to keep fans interested. Though the pacing of the first episode was rushed, there’s hope that it will settle into the fun, quirky tone that made its earlier run so enjoyable. Plus, the return of memorable elements like the pink P-90 gun, affectionately named “P-chan,” keeps viewers engaged.
5. 365 Days to The Wedding
One of the most delightful surprises this season is 365 Days to The Wedding, a quirky romantic comedy set in a travel agency. The premise is simple but effective: Takuya and Rika, two socially awkward office workers, pretend to be engaged to avoid being transferred to their company’s Alaska branch. The show thrives on the unique personalities of its leads, and the way their quirks and hobbies make them feel authentic. Saori Hayami’s voice work as Rika stands out, and the show’s visual and comedic timing make this romance one to watch.
4. Dragon Ball Daima
Fans of Dragon Ball will rejoice with Dragon Ball Daima, a spin-off that captures the spirit of the original series. Set after the Buu saga, the show brings back Goku and friends—this time as children, thanks to a wish made by the new Demon Realm king, Gomah. The return to pre-time skip Dragon Ball vibes is a nostalgic treat for long-time fans. The animation is a noticeable improvement from recent Dragon Ball installments, and the goofy comedy, reminiscent of the early series, adds a refreshing lightness. The first episode does a fantastic job of recapping past events and bringing fans back into the fold.
3. Orb: On the Movements of the Earth
Orb: On the Movements of the Earth blends anime melodrama with a historical backdrop, drawing inspiration from the Renaissance period and the scientific discoveries of figures like Galileo. The story follows Rafal, a young prodigy, and Hubert, a scholar persecuted for his heliocentric theory. Rafal’s obsession with proving the theory brings excitement and tension as he navigates the dangers of challenging established beliefs. The show, animated by Madhouse, handles heavy themes of persecution and scientific curiosity with grace, while still maintaining an edge of suspense and excitement.
2. Ranma ½
MAPPA’s latest adaptation of Ranma ½ is a surprising hit this season. Despite being a classic, Ranma ½ still packs a punch with its signature gender-bending humor and action-packed sequences. The story follows Ranma Saotome, a martial artist who turns into a girl when splashed with cold water, and his fiancée Akane, with whom he shares a complicated relationship. The show’s comedic timing and expressive animation breathe new life into the old series, and while some gender dynamics may feel dated, the jokes and physical comedy remain sharp.
1. Dan Da Dan
The most anticipated newcomer of the season, Dan Da Dan, has already exceeded expectations with its supernatural premise and high-energy execution. The story follows Momo Ayase, who believes in ghosts, and Okarun, who’s obsessed with aliens. Together, they are pulled into a world filled with bizarre supernatural forces. Science Saru’s animation is a visual feast, delivering one of the most stunning battle scenes of the year. The chemistry between the leads is electric, with Ayase emerging as a particularly strong character. The only hiccup is an uncomfortable scene of sexual menace in the first episode, which feels out of place in an otherwise buoyant series. If it can maintain its explosive pacing and avoid such missteps, Dan Da Dan will likely dominate this fall’s anime lineup.
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