10 Anime Series That Nearly Achieve Perfection

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Anime has undeniably become a pivotal element of global pop culture, introducing a wave of high-caliber content that has captivated audiences worldwide. Each year, a plethora of anime series emerge, spanning various genres and attracting diverse viewership. While the idea of a “perfect” anime series remains elusive, certain shows come astonishingly close. Titles such as Attack on Titan and One Punch Man are often heralded as near-perfect by both fans and critics alike.Yet, even these widely celebrated series harbor minor imperfections that prevent them from achieving absolute perfection. Whether it’s issues with pacing, characterization, or animation, these subtle flaws have sparked debates within the anime community. Despite these minor setbacks, these anime remain beloved and continue to hold a prestigious place in the hearts of fans. Below, we delve into ten anime series that, although almost flawless, fall just short of perfection.

10. Dragon Ball Z (1989 – 1996)

Dragon Ball Z is nothing short of a cultural phenomenon. Often cited as one of the “big three” anime, it played an instrumental role in popularizing the genre worldwide during the 1980s and 1990s. The saga of Goku, the mighty Saiyan warrior, and his allies and adversaries has captivated audiences across generations.

However, despite its monumental influence, Dragon Ball Z is not without its shortcomings. The series is notorious for its filler episodes and sluggish pacing, which can make the viewing experience feel tedious at times. These pacing issues have dissuaded some potential viewers, preventing them from fully appreciating or completing the series.

9. From the New World (2012)

From the New World is often hailed as a masterpiece, celebrated for its breathtaking animation, intricate storytelling, and compelling characters. Set in a dystopian future, the series offers a rich and complex narrative that challenges viewers’ perceptions.

Yet, this complexity can also be its Achilles’ heel. The show’s layered and nuanced plot demands significant mental engagement from the audience, which can be daunting for newcomers. While this intellectual challenge appeals to some, it can alienate others, making the series less accessible to a broader audience.

8. Paranoia Agent (2004)

Paranoia Agent is a psychological thriller that delves into the lives of Tokyo’s residents, who become victims of a mysterious assailant known as Little Slugger. As detectives investigate the attacks, they uncover how these incidents strangely improve the victims’ lives.

While the series excels in storytelling and character development, its inconsistent visual quality can be jarring. The fluctuating art style at times detracts from the overall viewing experience, momentarily breaking the immersion for the audience. Despite this, Paranoia Agent remains a gripping narrative that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats.

7. Odd Taxi (2021)

Odd Taxi follows the story of Hiroshi Odokawa, a walrus taxi driver whose life takes an unexpected turn when he becomes entangled in the case of a missing girl. The series is notable for its unique anthropomorphic characters and intricate plot.

However, the show’s tendency to shift focus to various side characters and their subplots can sometimes feel disconnected from the main narrative. These tangents, though engaging, can distract from the central mystery, leaving viewers feeling as though the core story is being overshadowed. Nevertheless, Odd Taxi remains compelling enough to keep audiences hooked.

6. March Comes in Like a Lion (2016)

March Comes in Like a Lion chronicles the life of Rei Kiriyama, a young shogi prodigy grappling with the pressures of his talent and the emotional burdens it brings. The series is a beautifully crafted coming-of-age story that explores themes of loneliness, family, and personal growth.

Despite its strengths, the series suffers from pacing issues that can affect viewer engagement. The narrative sometimes progresses too slowly, risking the loss of audience interest. However, for those who appreciate a thoughtful, character-driven story, March Comes in Like a Lion offers a deeply rewarding experience.

5. Violet Evergarden (2018)

Set in the aftermath of a devastating war, Violet Evergarden tells the poignant story of Violet, a former soldier who becomes an Auto Memory Doll—a professional letter writer—while grappling with the meaning of love and loss.

While the series is visually stunning and emotionally resonant, some viewers feel that the emotional impact of certain scenes falls short of the writers’ intentions. These moments, though minor, prevent Violet Evergarden from fully realizing its potential as a tear-jerking masterpiece. Nonetheless, it remains a beautifully animated and deeply moving series.

4. Steins;Gate (2011)

Steins;Gate follows Rintaro Okabe and his friends as they inadvertently discover the ability to send memories back in time, setting off a chain of events that pits them against a shadowy organization known as SERN. The series is lauded for its intricate plot and emotional depth.

However, the show’s complex time travel mechanics can be challenging to grasp, particularly for viewers unfamiliar with the genre. The lack of detailed explanations can leave some audience members struggling to follow the story. Despite this, Steins;Gate remains a top choice for fans seeking a deeply emotional and intellectually stimulating anime.

3. Hyouka (2012)

Houtarou Oreki, a high school student who prefers a quiet, uneventful life, finds himself reluctantly drawn into solving various mysteries after joining the Classics Club. Each mystery becomes more intriguing than the last.

While Hyouka offers a beautifully subtle and introspective narrative, its slow pacing can be challenging for some viewers. The deliberate storytelling, though rewarding for patient audiences, might test the endurance of those seeking a faster-paced experience. Despite this, Hyouka stands out as a thoughtful exploration of youth and curiosity.

2. Neon Genesis Evangelion (1995)

Neon Genesis Evangelion is a groundbreaking mecha series that has left an indelible mark on anime history. The story of Shinji Ikari and his battles against monstrous beings known as Angels is as psychologically complex as it is action-packed.

However, the series is infamous for its confusing and abrupt ending, which left many viewers bewildered. The finale’s lack of clear resolution prompted creator Hideaki Anno to produce a follow-up film to address the widespread dissatisfaction. Despite this polarizing conclusion, Neon Genesis Evangelion remains a seminal work in the anime canon.

1. One Piece (1999)

One Piece is a legendary series that has captivated audiences for decades with its epic tale of adventure, friendship, and the quest for the ultimate treasure. Luffy and his crew’s journey is widely regarded as one of the greatest stories ever told in anime.

Yet, its sheer length—spanning over 1,000 episodes—can be daunting for new viewers. The extensive time commitment required to catch up deters many from diving into this otherwise extraordinary series. However, recent adaptations, such as the Netflix live-action version, have attempted to streamline the story, making it more accessible while retaining its core essence.

These ten anime series, while not flawless, come remarkably close to achieving perfection. Despite their minor shortcomings, each of these shows has left a lasting impact on the anime world, earning a special place in the hearts of fans.