The Best Anime of 2021: A Comprehensive Guide

2021 was a standout year for the anime scene, with a plethora of shows that catered to every taste. From dramatic narratives to action-packed adventures, there was something for everyone to enjoy. Here, we'll delve into some of the standout titles that made 2021 an unforgettable year for anime enthusiasts.

Standout Anime of 2021

Beastars: Season 2

Beastars, the second season, captivated viewers with its bold and unflinching narrative. The series didn’t shy away from shocking and intense moments, but rather added depth to Juno and Louis, my personal favorite characters. While the ending may not have aligned with every viewer's expectations, there were undeniably memorable moments that resonated. The animation, art, and music, particularly the opening and ending themes, were standout features.

Dr Stone: Stone Wars

Dr Stone: Stone Wars provided a refreshing twist with enjoyable additions to the cast, which improved the overall viewing experience. Season 2 featured a well-rounded and engaging cast, making it a significant improvement over season one. The opening of season 2 was also a step up, providing a more compelling start to the story. Despite some frustrating moments, the show remains a compelling continuation of a fun, scientific adventure.

Cells at Work

Creatively portraying the inner workings of the human body, Cells at Work is a unique and entertaining series. The characters, designed to embody different cells in the body, are not only scientifically accurate but also have their own distinct personalities. Some designs may be questionable, and the pacing can be slow at times, but the show remains engaging, especially with the charming characters like the Dendritic Cell, Cancer Cell, and various bacteria.

So I’m a Spider, So What?

Adopting an isekai trope with a fresh approach, So I’m a Spider, So What? manages to balance humor with relatable character struggles. The protagonist, though a spider in another world, regenerates with each level-up, offering a sense of growth and improvement. Despite the abundance of spiders, the world-building and character designs are intriguing, making the series a delightful view.

Mushouku Tensei: Jobless Reincarnation

Mushouku Tensei: Jobless Reincarnation is a bit of a mixed bag. The primary reason for its high placement is the character growth of Eris, as well as her journey through an interesting, diverse world. The MC, while initially scoundrel-like, gradually evolves into a morally complex character. The world-building and plot are engaging, but the female characters have room for improvement. Still, it’s a solid show worth watching.

My Next Life as a Villainess: All Routes Lead to Doom!

This anime stands out with its humorous MC and well-crafted premise, even though is has been a familiar theme in many manga. The intriguing fashion designs and the trait of not taking herself too seriously make this series a treat to watch. Beyond humor, it offers compelling character dynamics and a satisfying pace, making it a standout choice in the crowded 2021 anime landscape.

Vanitas No Carte

The humor and character design in Vanitas No Carte make it a charming and fun watch. The world, art style, and ending are all well-crafted, contributing to the overall enjoyment of the series. With a strong voice acting performance, both in dub and sub, and a thought-provoking premise, it’s a relaxing and refreshing series, despite its occasional unpredictability.

Vivy: Flourite Eye's Song

Vivy: Flourite Eye's Song offers a unique take on time travel, friendship, and learning to sing from the heart. Inspired by Violet Evergarden but set in a world of robots, this anime stands as a self-contained story with a well-paced narrative. The art and music, coupled with a compelling plot, make it a standout choice for fans of both science fiction and emotional storytelling.

Honourable Mentions

Horimiya

A strong romantic comedy, Horimiya is enjoyable enough with a solid cast of characters and consistent art and animation. While it doesn't reach the heights of some of the top titles, it remains a quality series that delivers consistent entertainment.

Words Bubble Up Like Soda Pop

With an intriguing premise, Words Bubble Up Like Soda Pop explores a unique character dynamic involving a guy sensitive to sounds and a girl with buck teeth. Despite a few pacing issues, the story is well-crafted, and the characters are engaging. However, it falls short of being one of the best anime of 2021, but it's still a good watch.

Belle The World's Finest Asassin Gets Reincarnated in Another World

Belle, based on a fairytale adaptation, presents an intriguing take on beauty and the beast. While visually captivating, the character of the beast leaves something to be desired, and the plot, though engaging, suffers from rushed development. The analysis of The World's Finest Asassin offers an interesting but flawed concept, with a supportive protagonist joined by notable characters. While it's not a showstopper, it’s engaging and thought-provoking.

Conclusion

2021 was a remarkable year for anime, with a diverse range of titles that catered to different tastes and preferences. From thought-provoking narratives to visually stunning creations, there was something for every anime lover. So, whether you’re a fan of action, drama, or lighthearted humor, there’s a series in this list that you won't want to miss. Happy viewing!