While anime seems to be in an era where sequels are increasingly common, there are still some fantastic shows that, despite their popularity or critical acclaim, have not received the follow-up seasons they deserve. Many of these series ended abruptly, leaving fans yearning for more, and with each passing year, the likelihood of them getting a second season grows slimmer. Here’s a look at ten anime that still have fans hoping for a return:
10. The Disappearance of Nagato Yuki-chan
- Studio: Satelight
- Based on: Manga by Puyo
A spinoff of The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya, this series follows a more relaxed, alternate reality where Yuki Nagato, a shy bookworm, tries to win Kyon’s affection. The Disappearance of Nagato Yuki-chan brings charm and humor to the Haruhi universe, but despite its potential, it never received a second season, leaving fans wishing for more.
9. No Matter How I Look At It, It’s You Guys’ Fault I’m Not Popular
- Studio: Silver Link
- Based on: Manga by Nico Tanigawa
The series focuses on Tomoko Kuroki, an antisocial otaku trying to navigate high school life. While the show initially leans into cringe comedy, it later transitions into a deeper slice-of-life story. Fans were left hanging after the first season, and with over a decade passing, it’s unlikely we’ll see a continuation.
8. Dark Gathering
- Studio: OLM, Inc.
- Based on: Manga by Kenichi Kondo
A supernatural horror about a young man dragged into battling spirits by a girl on a mission to save her mother’s soul. The anime had solid animation and a fun, dark storyline, but it ended on a cliffhanger. Despite this, it seems unlikely we’ll see a return, especially with OLM’s focus on other projects.
7. Nichijou
- Studio: Kyoto Animation
- Based on: Manga by Keiichi Arawi
Nichijou is a surreal comedy that stands out for its eccentric humor and breathtaking animation by Kyoto Animation. It’s widely considered one of the studio’s finest works, but despite its immense popularity and the potential for more absurdity, it has never seen a second season. Fans of this unique show still hope for more, especially with a spiritual successor, City, coming in 2025.
6. Deadman Wonderland
- Studio: Manglobe
- Based on: Manga by Jinsei Kataoka & Kazuma Kondou
In this dark and bloody series, Ganta Igarashi is sent to a brutal prison where inmates possess deadly abilities. The anime adapted only a small portion of the manga, ending with a cliffhanger that never got resolved. Manglobe’s bankruptcy in 2015 sealed the series’ fate, making a continuation nearly impossible.
5. Aoashi
- Studio: Production I.G
- Based on: Manga by Yugo Kobayashi
Aoashi follows Ashito Aoi, a young soccer player with big dreams of turning professional. The anime was praised for its animation and character writing but ended on a major cliffhanger regarding Ashito’s career. Despite the show’s popularity, no second season has been confirmed yet, and its future remains uncertain.
4. Berserk
- Studio: OLM, Inc.
- Based on: Manga by Kentaro Miura
The original Berserk anime, airing in 1997, is a classic of dark fantasy. It follows the story of Guts, a swordsman on a quest for revenge. The anime ended on a notorious cliffhanger, and despite several adaptations, including the more recent CGI versions, the true continuation of the story from the 1997 series has never been realized.
3. Land of the Lustrous
- Studio: Orange
- Based on: Manga by Haruko Ichikawa
In a future where humanity has perished, Land of the Lustrous follows gemstone-based beings called Lustrous who battle an alien race. The anime’s groundbreaking 3D animation and haunting story made it a standout, but it ended before adapting the full manga, leaving fans hoping for more. Sadly, it’s unlikely that the story will be picked up again anytime soon.
2. Bocchi the Rock!
- Studio: CloverWorks
- Based on: Manga by Aki Hamaji
This anime follows Hitori “Bocchi” Gotou, an antisocial girl who dreams of becoming a rock star. Bocchi the Rock! won over audiences with its relatable character and infectious humor, yet despite its success, a second season has not been announced. Fans remain hopeful for more, especially after the show’s massive cultural impact.
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