20 Underrated Anime Gems You Might Have Missed Over the Years
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In the vast world of anime, countless incredible shows never quite hit the mainstream spotlight. Whether it’s because of timing, overshadowing hits, or niche appeal, these anime often remain hidden treasures waiting to be discovered. Today, we’ll highlight 20 underrated anime series that deserve your attention. Whether they spark nostalgia or open up new horizons, these titles promise entertainment and depth in their unique ways.
| Position | Anime |
|---|---|
| 1 | The Heroic Legend of Arslan |
| 2 | Yozakura Quartet: Hana no Uta |
| 3 | The King’s Avatar |
| 4 | Tsubasa: Tokyo Revelations |
| 5 | Canaan |
| 6 | Real Drive |
| 7 | Moribito: Guardian of the Spirit |
| 8 | Scissor Seven |
| 9 | Arpeggio of Blue Steel |
| 10 | Buso Renkin |
| 11 | Beelzebub |
| 12 | Symphogear |
| 13 | Sengoku Basara |
| 14 | Casshern Sins |
| 15 | Super Crooks |
| 16 | High Card |
| 17 | Gundam: Iron-Blooded Orphans |
| 18 | My Home Hero |
| 19 | Space Battleship Yamato 2199 |
| 20 | Pluto |
1. The Heroic Legend of Arslan (2015)%20(5).jpeg)
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If you’re a fan of historical kingdom dramas filled with war, betrayal, and character growth, The Heroic Legend of Arslan is for you. Released in 2015, it’s an epic tale of a disgraced prince seeking redemption amidst war and political intrigue. The show excels in world-building, with each episode adding layers to its rich universe. While it may not have received the same spotlight as contemporaries like Unlimited Blade Works and Seraph of the End, Arslan remains a hidden gem worth exploring.
2. Yozakura Quartet: Hana no Uta (2013)
2013 was a standout year for anime, and hidden among hits like Beyond the Boundary and Tokyo Ravens was Yozakura Quartet: Hana no Uta. This supernatural fantasy blends quirky comedy with stylish action, offering a refreshingly unconventional approach to its genre. The vibrant visuals and eccentric characters make it an oddball delight. If you enjoy supernatural anime with charm and humor, give this one a shot.
3. The King’s Avatar (2017)%20(6).jpeg)
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A must-watch for esports enthusiasts, The King’s Avatar captures the intensity and drama of competitive gaming. This Chinese anime focuses on the redemption arc of a professional gamer who’s forced to start over after being expelled from his team. While it didn’t benefit from traditional anime marketing, it stands out with its engaging plot and focus on the world of esports. If you enjoyed titles like Overlord or Log Horizon, this one's for you.
4. Tsubasa: Tokyo Revelations (2007)%20(7).jpeg)
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Fans of CLAMP's interconnected universe will find a treat in Tsubasa: Tokyo Revelations. This OVA adapts a crucial manga arc skipped in the main anime series, delivering a darker and more intense storyline. While it requires familiarity with Tsubasa Chronicle, the OVA’s refined storytelling and emotional depth make it an essential watch for fans of the franchise.
5. Canaan (2009)%20(8).jpeg)
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For fans of action thrillers, Canaan offers a gripping ride set in China, complete with conspiracies, assassinations, and intense action sequences. The dynamic between the two leads drives the narrative, while its sharp pacing keeps you hooked across its 13 episodes. It’s a departure from typical PA Works titles, but the result is an underrated thriller worth your time.
6. Real Drive (2008)%20(9).jpeg)
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A sci-fi anime ahead of its time, Real Drive explores humanity’s increasing dependence on technology and the potential consequences of a hyper-connected world. Released alongside heavyweights like Code Geass and Soul Eater, it struggled to stand out. However, its world-building, thought-provoking themes, and serious undertones make it a hidden gem for sci-fi enthusiasts.
7. Moribito: Guardian of the Spirit (2007)%20(10).jpeg)
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From Production I.G., Moribito is a beautifully animated fantasy series set in an Indochina-inspired world. The story follows Balsa, a skilled bodyguard, as she protects a cursed prince. With fluid animation, excellent fight choreography, and strong character development, Moribito stands tall among fantasy anime. Fans of Claymore and Rurouni Kenshin will find plenty to love here.
8. Scissor Seven (2018)%20(11).jpeg)
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This Chinese anime offers a quirky blend of comedy, action, and heartfelt storytelling. Following an incompetent assassin, the show delivers light-hearted fun while sneaking in some surprisingly emotional moments. Its unique art style and witty humor make it a delightful watch, even if it occasionally leans into repetition.
9. Arpeggio of Blue Steel: Ars Nova (2013)%20(12).jpeg)
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Arpeggio of Blue Steel combines military strategy with sleek character designs and captivating storytelling. While it was initially overshadowed by more prominent titles in its season, the anime manages to balance serious plot points with light-hearted moments seamlessly. Its two-part movie conclusion ties up loose ends nicely, despite the first film being a rushed recap.
10. Buso Renkin (2006)%20(13).jpeg)
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From the creator of Rurouni Kenshin, Buso Renkin is a battle shonen anime filled with magical weapons, over-the-top action, and a strong narrative flow. While it lacks the thematic depth of heavyweights like Fullmetal Alchemist, it offers consistent entertainment and memorable fight sequences. Fans of classic action anime will find Buso Renkin to be a fun and nostalgic ride.
11. Beelzebub (2011)%20(14).jpeg)
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If absurd comedy and chaotic action sound appealing, Beelzebub delivers. This delinquent-themed anime combines slapstick humor with a surprisingly heartfelt story. Despite its high episode count and occasional filler arcs, it remains an enjoyable watch thanks to its lovable characters and outrageous plotlines.
12. Symphogear (2012)%20(15).jpeg)
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Combining magical girls, sci-fi, and musical performances, Symphogear is a bold genre fusion that exceeded expectations. With each season, the stakes rise, the battles grow grander, and the characters evolve beautifully. While its initial rough start might discourage some, sticking with it promises a thrilling ride.
13. Sengoku Basara (2009)%20(16).jpeg)
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Historical accuracy takes a back seat in Sengoku Basara, but that’s part of its charm. With flashy battles, exaggerated weapon techniques, and larger-than-life characters, this anime delivers high-octane entertainment. If you’re into over-the-top action and warlords with wild personalities, Sengoku Basara is a must-watch.
14. Casshern Sins (2008)%20(17).jpeg)
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A dark and introspective sci-fi anime, Casshern Sins explores themes of life, death, and redemption in a post-apocalyptic world. While its slower pacing and philosophical undertones might not appeal to everyone, fans of thoughtful storytelling will appreciate its haunting beauty.
15. Super Crooks (2021)
Following in the footsteps of Great Pretender, Super Crooks combines superhero tropes with crime caper elements. While it didn’t quite reach the same heights, it still delivers charismatic characters, vibrant visuals, and engaging action sequences.
16. High Card (2023)%20(18).jpeg)
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Mixing playing cards with superpowers, High Card blends action, mystery, and a stylish atmosphere. Its adult cast and fast-paced narrative make it an underrated gem from 2023. If you enjoyed shows like Bungou Stray Dogs or Kingsman, High Card will be right up your alley.
17. Gundam: Iron-Blooded Orphans (2015)%20(19).jpeg)
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Known for its gritty realism and emotional storytelling, Iron-Blooded Orphans offers a fresh take on the Gundam franchise. With heavy themes of child soldiers and societal corruption, it’s a bold and impactful entry that stands apart from traditional Gundam narratives.
18. My Home Hero (2023)%20(20).jpeg)
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My Home Hero starts as a light-hearted comedy but quickly transforms into an emotional rollercoaster with strong writing and character development. While it may not have drawn much attention, its mature themes and gripping narrative make it a standout from recent years.
19. Space Battleship Yamato 2199 (2012)%20(21).jpeg)
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A remake of the classic space opera, Space Battleship Yamato 2199 preserves the spirit of the original while enhancing it with modern animation and storytelling techniques. It’s an epic tale of survival, heroism, and sacrifice that captures the best of the genre.
20. Pluto (2023)%20(22).jpeg)
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Pluto is a masterclass in storytelling, adapted from Naoki Urasawa's manga. With profound themes, emotional depth, and gripping tension, it’s a must-watch for fans of introspective anime. While its release format might have limited mainstream hype, Pluto is a timeless masterpiece.
These 20 anime cover a wide range of genres and themes, ensuring something for everyone. Whether you’re revisiting a forgotten classic or discovering a new favorite, these underrated titles deserve a spot on your watchlist. What do you think of this list? Share your thoughts and recommendations in the comments!
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