With the summer anime season wrapping up, I’ve put together my top picks for the best anime of summer 2024. These are shows I’ve either finished or plan to watch soon, and they’re listed in no specific order.
Top Anime of Summer 2024:
Oshi no Ko Season 2
Aqua is set on revenge while he and his sister, Ruby, navigate the dark side of the entertainment industry. Ruby aspires to become an idol like her late mother, and Aqua joins a prestigious theater group to uncover the truth about his father.
I’m current with the manga for Oshi no Ko, but admittedly, I don’t remember much about this arc. Judging by fan reactions online, though, the story is likely reaching its peak.
Alya Sometimes Hides Her Feelings in Russian
Genre: Romance, Comedy
The new transfer student Alya keeps to herself but excels academically. In a playful twist, she flirts with her classmate Kuze Masachika in Russian, unaware that he actually understands her language.
This was my top pick from summer 2024. I’m also following the manga for Alya. While this season is filled with RomComs, I’d rank it as the second best of its genre. The adaptation is impressive; they even found a voice actress fluent in both Japanese and Russian. There’s some fan service, so if that’s not your thing, this one might not be for you. The season finale feels a bit abrupt, but a second season has already been announced.
Tower of God Season 2
Genre: Action, Adventure, Drama
Ja Wangnan is stuck on the 20th Floor, determined to advance despite his failures. Along the way, he meets the mysterious Viole and invites him to join his team of Regulars as they face endless challenges.
I remember watching Tower of God Season 1, and I’ve never disliked a character more than Rachel. This new season is airing its 13th episode as I write, with a total of 26 episodes planned. I’ll be binge-watching it once the season is complete, hoping for Bam to finally get his long-overdue justice.
Wistora: Wand and Sword
Genre: Action, Adventure
Will, an aspiring sorcerer, enrolls in a magic academy, only to discover he can’t actually use magic. While his peers and teachers look down on him, he remains undeterred. Though unable to wield a wand, his skill with a sword drives him forward.
This anime has generated a lot of buzz online, though I don’t know much about it myself.
My Deer Friend Nokotan
Genre: Comedy
Koshi Torako is a model honor student, but few know about her rebellious past. Her calm school life is interrupted by Shikanoko Noko, a girl with actual antlers. Their interactions shake things up in unexpected ways.
This “brain rot” comedy is similar to Asobi Asobase and Azumanga Daioh. Though I haven’t watched it yet, I plan to. Plus, the opening theme alone has convinced many viewers to check it out.
Makeine: Too Many Losing Heroines!
High schooler Kazuhiko Nukumizu usually stays in the background, until he steps in to comfort Anna Yanami after she’s dumped by her childhood friend. He soon finds himself entangled with other girls who’ve faced heartbreak too.
This anime has surprised fans this season, though I’d rate it as a fairly average RomCom. It has a slow start, so giving it a few episodes before judging might be worthwhile.
Suicide Squad ISEKAI
Genre: Action, Adventure
In crime-ridden Gotham, A.R.G.U.S. leader Amanda Waller gathers a team of infamous criminals, including Harley Quinn, Deadshot, and Peacemaker, and sends them through a portal to a magical realm of dragons and orcs.
Although I lean more towards Marvel, this anime’s unique take on isekai with DC characters is intriguing.
Pseudo Harem
Genre: Romance, Comedy
Drama club member Eiji Kitahama hopes to create a harem like his favorite manga, while his underclassman, Rin Nanakura, adopts various personas to win his heart.
For me, this is the season’s top RomCom. I read the manga years ago and was surprised by how well the anime was executed. Saori Hayami’s impressive voice work for Rin makes each persona distinct.
Days With My Step Sister
Genre: Slice of Life, Romance
After his father remarries, Yuta Asamura’s new stepsister, Saki Ayase, becomes a central figure in his life. Though cautious due to their family situations, their shared experiences gradually deepen their bond.
Though “step-sibling” anime can be divisive, this one seems similar in tone to My Stepmom’s Daughter is My Ex, with a wholesome approach.
Shoshimin: How to Become Ordinary
Genre: Slice of Life, Mystery
High school students Jougarou Kobato and Yuki Osanai pledge to keep a low profile but soon find themselves involved in mysterious situations that make “normal” a challenge.
For a full review, click here.
Kimi ni Todoke: From Me to You Season 3
Genre: Romance, Drama, Comedy
This season sees Sawako and Shouta’s relationship deepen through summer school and family introductions. While their love grows, they face the emotional hurdles of a new relationship.
One of the most iconic romance series is back with strong ratings.
The Elusive Samurai
Genre: Action, Adventure
Set in 1333, the story follows Houjou Tokiyuki, a young heir escaping his family’s massacre, as he travels with Suwa Yorishige to reclaim his birthright. The stunning animation has been widely praised.
Senpai is an Otokonoko
Genre: Drama, Comedy, Romance
When Saki Aoi confesses her love to Makoto Hanaoka, he doesn’t reciprocate, but she’s determined to make him her first love.
I read the manga and was taken by its feel-good atmosphere. The opening twist is best experienced without spoilers, so I recommend watching the first episode blind. The story’s conclusion will likely be wrapped up in the recently announced movie.
These were my top anime picks for Summer 2024. Romance dominated this season, but there were plenty of strong action-adventure options too. The upcoming fall season looks promising, with highly anticipated titles like Blue Box on the way.