This time, I’ll share my top five favorite anime that have left a lasting impression on me. For each one, I’ll provide a brief overview and what makes it stand out.
Disclaimer
No1:These works are chosen based on their personal impact on me, so they are not ranked—each anime is equally beloved.
No2:Only anime-original works are considered; manga or game-only stories are excluded.
No3:While I’ll avoid spoilers as much as possible, there may be minor references to story elements due to the nature of the content.
No4:For spoiler-heavy impressions, I plan to write separate, in-depth reviews for each anime.
No5:These are my personal opinions and do not represent the views of all Japanese fans.
Evangelion Series
Genre: Complex Mecha Battles
Story: Set in a futuristic 2015 Japan, this sci-fi anime unfolds 15 years after a catastrophic event known as the “Second Impact.” Mysterious beings called “Angels” appear to threaten humanity. To counter them, an organization called NERV is established, creating the “Evangelions,” advanced humanoid combat weapons. The story follows the protagonists Shinji Ikari, Asuka Langley, and Rei Ayanami as they pilot the Evangelions to fight these existential threats.
Highlights:
- Profound Characters:
Evangelion is not just a story about humanity vs. Angels. It delves deeply into the psyches of its characters. The struggles and emotional evolution of Shinji, Asuka, and Rei are thoughtfully explored. Additionally, adult characters like Misato, Gendo, and Ritsuko bring layers of realism through their complex relationships and organizational dynamics. - Unsolvable Mysteries:
One of Evangelion’s key charms is its inscrutability. For example, the Evangelions are never outright referred to as robots but as “Humanoid Battle Weapons.” This distinction sparks curiosity—what exactly are they? As the plot progresses, answers seem within reach, but new mysteries arise, making it endlessly thought-provoking.
Some notable points for speculation:
・The purpose and structure of SEELE
・The truth behind the Second Impact
・The significance of the White Moon, Black Moon, and the conflict between humanity and the Angels
・The Rebuild of Evangelion movies add even more layers of intrigue, making the series a treasure trove for fans who love deep analysis.
The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya
Genre: High School Adventures in Search of the Extraordinary
Story: The protagonist, Kyon, encounters Haruhi Suzumiya, a girl obsessed with finding aliens, time travelers, and ESPers. Together, they form the SOS Brigade and embark on quirky adventures to uncover the extraordinary in everyday life.
Highlights:
Diverse Episodes:
The anime features a variety of storylines, including school festivals, baseball tournaments, and summer trips, ensuring every episode feels fresh and engaging.
Unique Narrative Structure:
The anime’s airing order differs from the chronological order of events, offering multiple viewing experiences.
The infamous time loop episodes showcase character growth and emotional depth despite repetitive settings.
Fusion of Sci-Fi and Slice-of-Life:
Haruhi blends ordinary school life with extraordinary elements like aliens and time travelers, creating a refreshing contrast that keeps the audience engaged.
Enigmatic Themes:
Haruhi’s mysterious powers and the secrets of the SOS Brigade members unravel gradually, keeping viewers on edge.
Dragon Ball Series
Genre: Intense Battles with Unforgettable Moments
Story: Dragon Ball spans multiple series, each with its unique storyline:
Dragon Ball: A lighthearted tale of Goku’s adventures in search of the seven Dragon Balls, filled with humor, friendship, and exploration.
Dragon Ball Z: A continuation featuring adult Goku, packed with intense battles against formidable foes.
Dragon Ball GT: Goku’s journey to reclaim his original form after being transformed into a child. This includes interstellar adventures and climactic battles on Earth.
Dragon Ball Super: Introducing new gods and universes, this series expands the lore with Goku facing cosmic challenges.
Dragon Ball DAIM: A recent addition where Goku and friends venture into the Demon Realm to confront new enemies.
Highlights:
Unparalleled Action:
Iconic moments like Goku’s Kamehameha or his transformations into Super Saiyan forms have become cultural phenomena.
Expansive Universe:
Each series builds upon the last, introducing new worlds, characters, and challenges that continuously captivate fans.
