As the Fall 2024 anime season unfolds, Japanese audiences have weighed in on the must-watch series that should be completed by fans, as well as those deemed universally enjoyable. From returning fan favorites to new, exciting shows, this season offers something for every anime enthusiast. According to a recent survey conducted by Animate Times, here are the top 10 anime that have captured the attention of viewers.
1. Ranma 1/2 Reboot
Topping the list is the highly anticipated Ranma 1/2 reboot, brought to life by MAPPA. Based on Rumiko Takahashi’s beloved manga, the series follows the chaotic life of Ranma Saotome, a boy cursed to transform into a girl when splashed with cold water. With its blend of martial arts and comedic romance, Ranma 1/2 continues to captivate audiences decades after its original release, and the reboot has been warmly embraced for modernizing the classic story while staying true to its roots.
2. Dandadan
Dandadan takes the second spot with its unique mix of comedy, action, and supernatural intrigue. The series, created by Tatsu Yukinobu, follows high school students Momo Ayase and ‘Okarun,’ who are thrust into bizarre situations involving aliens and ghosts. Momo’s abduction by an alien UFO and Okarun’s possession by a rogue spirit lead to the awakening of their psychic powers, forming a complicated yet compelling partnership. Dandadan’s humor and action-packed plot make it a standout in the Fall 2024 lineup.
3. Natsume’s Book of Friends Season 7
Returning for its seventh season, Natsume’s Book of Friends maintains its place among the top anime of the season. Adapted from Yuki Midorikawa’s manga, the series centers on Takashi Natsume, a boy with the rare ability to see yokai, or spirits. Natsume inherits his grandmother’s book, which contains the names of spirits she defeated, putting him at risk of being targeted by vengeful creatures. With the help of his spirit bodyguard Madara, Natsume navigates the delicate balance of protecting himself while resolving the lingering conflicts caused by his grandmother’s actions.
4. Orb: On the Movement of the Earth
A new entry to the Fall 2024 anime season, Orb: On the Movement of the Earth explores themes of science and existentialism. The show has been praised for its thought-provoking narrative and innovative animation style, adding a unique perspective to the lineup.
5. Blue Box
As the only sports anime in the top rankings, Blue Box has captured the hearts of fans with its blend of athleticism and romance. The story follows Taiki Inomata, a junior high badminton player who secretly harbors feelings for his classmate Chinatsu Kano, a talented basketball player. Their growing bond, coupled with their shared dedication to their respective sports, makes Blue Box a standout among Fall’s anime offerings. It also garnered significant attention in a recent poll by NicoNico, where it ranked second among popular series.
6. Re Season 3
The third season of Re continues Subaru Natsuki’s journey through a fantastical, perilous world, where every death leads to a new beginning. Known for its emotional depth and complex character development, the series has remained a fan favorite for those seeking intense drama and psychological twists.
7. Rurouni Kenshin: Kyoto Disturbance
The Rurouni Kenshin franchise is back with Kyoto Disturbance, which reintroduces fans to Kenshin Himura, a wandering swordsman with a dark past. This latest arc promises action-packed battles, moral dilemmas, and emotional stakes that have made the series iconic in anime history.
8. Tied Shows: New Isekai and Mystery Anime
Several titles are tied for eighth place, reflecting the variety and appeal of this season’s anime. These include:
I’ll Become a Villainess Who Goes Down in History, an isekai series that blends fantasy with romance and adventure.
The Do-Over Damsel Conquers the Dragon Emperor, which follows the journey of a female protagonist seeking redemption and power.
Blue Lock vs. U-20 Japan, an intense sports drama spin-off of the Blue Lock franchise.
How I Attended an All-Guys Mixer, a lighthearted comedy about a protagonist navigating a social experiment.
Ron Kamonohashi’s Forbidden Deductions, a mystery series centered around a detective solving complex cases.
Puniru Is A Cute Slime, a quirky and endearing fantasy series featuring a slime protagonist.
Streaming Availability
For those eager to catch up on these top-ranked shows, Ranma 1/2, Dandadan, and Blue Box are all available for streaming on Netflix. Meanwhile, Natsume’s Book of Friends Season 7 can be watched on Crunchyroll.
The Fall 2024 anime season continues to deliver a diverse range of stories, with both beloved series and exciting new titles capturing the attention of Japanese audiences. As these shows continue to unfold, it is clear that anime fans have plenty of reasons to stay tuned until the very end.