Underrated Anime Series You Might Have Missed in 2024

Summary

Delico’s Nursery offers a unique take on vampires and a detective plot, packed with drama and intrigue.
Mayonaka Punch features a strange vampire-idol pact, blending goofiness, friendship, and becoming famous at any cost.
No Longer Allowed In Another World critiques isekai with dark comedy and satire, addressing serious topics like suicide and depression.

As a seasoned anime enthusiast with over three decades of watching these fascinating stories unfold, I must say that this year has been quite an interesting ride! From the captivating reboot of “Spice and Wolf” to the thought-provoking depiction of history in “Orb: On The Movements of the Earth,” there’s no shortage of engaging narratives.

This season’s anime shows have made quite an impression on the fanbase. As usual, some well-known series grab all the limelight, leaving other equally excellent ones somewhat overlooked.

This year, some lesser-known anime span from an unexpected detective story set within a hierarchical vampire community, to a reboot of one of the most beloved romance series that viewers should catch at least once. Here’s a peek at this collection of shows which offer compelling and robust stories, but didn’t receive enough recognition to dominate conversations as we approach its conclusion.

7. Delico’s Nursery

A Vampire Sleuth Story

In a world where status and lineage are paramount, Dali Delico stands out as an outsider. Once a respected vampire investigator and leader of a noble family, he now chooses to live in seclusion, bringing up his children by himself following a heartbreaking event that took the life of his cherished companion. One stormy night, unexpected visitors from his past knock on his door, inquiring about his refusal to take part in an investigation into a string of murders. Dali explains that he is dedicating all his time to his family.

In the Vlad Agency, they choose to unite their offspring under one roof, aiming to nurture them while investigating murders. This decision, though eventually regretted, ignites a tale brimming with humor, mystery, emotion, and much more. The title Delico’s Nursery, set in the same universe as the vampire manga TRUMP, serves as a prequel of sorts. It artfully blends detective work with gothic horror, but unfortunately, it didn’t garner the recognition it deserved.

6. Mayonaka Punch

A Vampire And A Fallen Idol Make A Strange Pact

After damaging her professional standing, Masaki Sonoue yearns to regain her past status as an esteemed “NeoTube” idol. However, rebuilding her tarnished reputation could prove challenging, given she was dismissed for physically assaulting the group’s leader. In her desperate search for a solution, she catches the eye of Live, a vampire with a thirst for her blood. They strike a bargain: Live will aid Masaki in achieving viral popularity, and Masaki will grant Live access to her blood as payment.

What follows is a succession of goofyt satirical events that quickly become a story of friendship, trust, and becoming famous at all costs. The idea of these otherwise scary supernatural beings helping a girl become famous by doing shenanigans at midnight is both hilarious and ridiculous.

5. No Longer Allowed In Another World

Unsurprisingly, This Isekai Critique Didn’t Get Enough Likes

Release Date: July 9, 2024
Director: Shigeki Kawai
Studio: Atelier Pontdarc
Number of Episodes: 12

When viewing a satire, viewers should recognize that it frequently criticizes its subject matter. In the case of “No Longer Allowed In Another World“, there are numerous elements that could provoke the audience. For instance, the protagonist’s persistent pursuit of a “beautiful death” or the portrayal of isekai’d individuals as not being considered heroes but oppressors who misuse their powers for ill purposes – this series is essentially about challenging conventional norms.

It seems the issue lies in the show’s mature content, making it unsuitable for younger viewers as it tackles heavy topics such as suicide, death, depression, substance use, among others. Given that it delves into themes more commonly associated with the Seinen demographic (young adults), it may have been miscategorized initially, potentially leading to its exclusion from the ‘best of the season’ list for isekai/fantasy audiences. However, this doesn’t diminish its quality as a series that appeals to those who enjoy dark comedy and satire.

4. Wistoria: Wand And Sword

A Familiar Formula In An Overcrowded Market

In my opinion, I’ve come across numerous discussions claiming that “Wistoria: Wand And Sword” follows a familiar pattern – a boy with minimal powers striving to ascend the academic ladder solely through determination and grit. This narrative structure seems quite reminiscent of another widely-adored school-themed superhero series, leading to much discussion and comparison. It’s possible that amidst all this debate, the series might not have received the recognition it deserved.

The truth is that this fantasy tale about overcoming weakness for a greater purpose was written by Fujino Ōmori, the author of (among other things) DanMachi. People are discordant when they speak about Ōmori’s work. Some of them love his LN, and some of them hate his series. But Wistoria can be good to watch, especially if fans are into cool battle scenes, sword and sorcery.

3. Undead Unluck

Crosses The Line Several Times And Still Has Its Charm

A story featuring a 200-year-old zombie targeting a 20-year-old idle person may initially raise eyebrows due to its questionable content. However, delving past the excessive spectacle, viewers will uncover an endearing (and unique) tale: one centered around two individuals who find compatibility in their unusual circumstances.

Despite the absence of romantic elements in this show, that doesn’t necessarily make it unworthy to watch. It offers an array of appealing features such as adventure, humor, and a peculiar secret society of anti-natural beings working to maintain order. Notably, it boasts remarkable fight sequences and visual effects. Unfortunately, it didn’t quite catch on with the audience, but its second season has been confirmed; however, a release date is yet to be disclosed.

2. Orb: On The Movements Of The Earth

When The Price Of Truth Is Too High To Bear

I’m immersed in the captivating world of Orb, an animated series that delves into the epoch that reshaped our cosmic understanding – a time echoing the Copernican revolution. This narrative unfolds myriad facets of the chase for the elusive “universal truth,” even shedding light on the tragic tribulations endured by those who dared to tread this intellectual path, often facing brutal persecution.

Through young Rafal’s perspective, we witness the portrayal of the Inquisition’s impact on scientists, the sacrifices of those pioneering a fresh astronomical model, and the dawning of a new era. The series “Orb” presents a raw, uncompromising, and fearless critique of an institution that obstructed scientific progress for years, clinging onto knowledge and power as its monopoly. If viewers appreciate a gritty atmosphere and an exhilarating story about truth-seekers battling the world, then they should definitely give it a watch.

1. Spice and Wolf (Reboot)

Remains True To The Original And Adds Better Visuals

“Revisiting Isuna Hasekura’s timeless romance narrative this year is a must-see event. While some devotees of the initial series expressed disapproval towards the new artistic approach, claiming the production seemed ordinary, it’s important to note that despite its updated dialogue and contemporary aesthetics, the series stays remarkably faithful to its 2008 roots.

In the spirit of the revival of Rurouni Kenshin, the new Spice and Wolf series embodies the heart of the original story while enhancing its value through improved lighting, stunning landscapes, and overall design upgrades. It’s not just about nostalgia; this show has been reimagined for contemporary viewers to appreciate. If you’re a fan of light fantasy romance, it’s definitely worth a watch.

2024-12-21 14:05