Top 10 Underrated Anime of ALL Time

Anime is a vast medium with hundreds of series being produced each year. While some gain mainstream popularity, others remain hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Here are the top 10 underrated anime that deserve more recognition:

1.    “Paranoia Agent”:
   
   
   

This psychological thriller by Satoshi Kon delves into the collective unconsciousness and societal pressure. It follows the story of a mysterious assailant known as Lil’ Slugger, who attacks people when they are mentally vulnerable. The anime explores the victims’ mental state and the societal issues that led to their breakdown.

 

2.    “Mushishi”:
   
   
   

This episodic anime follows Ginko, a “Mushi Master,” who interacts with Mushi, primitive creatures living in the seams of reality. Each episode tells a standalone story revolving around the supernatural phenomena caused by Mushi and how Ginko helps people affected by them.

 

 

3.    “Welcome to the NHK”:
   
   
   

This dark comedy provides a sensitive portrayal of social anxiety and depression. It follows Tatsuhiro Satou, a hikikomori (a recluse), who believes that a sinister organization known as NHK is causing his social withdrawal.

 

4.    “Monster”:
   
   
   

This gripping psychological thriller follows Dr. Kenzo Tenma as he chases down his former patient turned serial killer, Johan Liebert. The anime explores themes of morality, the value of life, and the nature of evil.

 

 

5.    “Kaiba”:
   
   
   

This sci-fi anime with a unique art style explores themes of identity, memory, and the value of life. In a world where memories can be stored and transferred to new bodies, the protagonist, Kaiba, wakes up with no memories and embarks on a journey to discover who he is.

 

6.    “Ergo Proxy”:
   
   
   

This cyberpunk mystery anime delves into existentialism and the human psyche. It follows Re-l Mayer, a detective, and Vincent Law, a mysterious immigrant, in a post-apocalyptic world populated by humans and androids known as AutoReivs.

 

 

7.    “Planetes”:
   
   
   

This hard sci-fi anime about space debris collectors deals with themes like space exploration and geopolitical conflict. It provides a realistic depiction of life in space and the challenges faced by the crew of the debris collection ship, Toy Box.

 

8.   “Kino’s Journey”:
   
   
   

This philosophical anime follows the travels of a nomadic protagonist, Kino, and their talking motorcycle, Hermes. Each episode explores a different country with its own unique customs and people, raising philosophical questions about society and human nature.

 

 

9.    “Haibane Renmei”:
   
   
   

This slice-of-life anime with a supernatural twist explores themes of purgatory and self-redemption. It follows a group of angel-like beings known as Haibane, living in a secluded town surrounded by walls, as they try to find their purpose.

 

10.                 “Tatami Galaxy”:
    
    
    

This visually striking anime with a narrative focusing on choices and their impact on life. It follows an unnamed protagonist as he relives his two years at university in various scenarios, each time hoping for a “rose-colored campus life.”

 

 

Each of these animes offers a unique story and perspective, pushing the boundaries of the medium. They might not have the mainstream appeal of some of the more popular series, but they are all worthy of your time. Happy watching! 📺