Anime of the Year 2023
The anime landscape in 2023 was rich with diverse storytelling, stunning animation, and compelling characters. From epic battles to heartwarming tales, several series stood out, earning accolades and the admiration of fans worldwide.
Crunchyroll Anime Awards 2023: Cyberpunk: Edgerunners Takes the Crown
At the 2023 Crunchyroll Anime Awards, Cyberpunk: Edgerunners clinched the prestigious Anime of the Year title. This cyberpunk thriller, set in the universe of the popular video game Cyberpunk 2077, captivated audiences with its gripping narrative and dynamic animation.
Other notable winners included:
- Best Action: Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba – Entertainment District Arc
- Best Animation: Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba – Entertainment District Arc
- Best New Series: SPY x FAMILY
- Best Film: JUJUTSU KAISEN 0
- Best Drama: Attack on Titan Final Season Part 2
- Best Comedy: SPY x FAMILY
- Best Ending Sequence: “Comedy” by Gen Hoshino, SPY x FAMILY
- Best Anime Song: “The Rumbling” by SiM, Attack on Titan Final Season Part 2
Other Standout Series of 2023
1. Jujutsu Kaisen – Guinness World Record Holder
Jujutsu Kaisen achieved a significant milestone by being recognized as the most popular anime globally in 2023 by the Guinness World Records. Surpassing giants like One Piece and Dragon Ball, the series garnered immense popularity, especially among Generation Z viewers.
2. Heavenly Delusion (Tengoku Daimakyo)
Heavenly Delusion captivated audiences with its unique blend of mystery and science fiction. The series received critical acclaim, winning multiple awards, including Anime of the Year at the Anime Trending Awards. Its compelling storytelling and intricate world-building made it a standout of the year.
3. Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End
Frieren offered a poignant exploration of time and memory, following the journey of an elven mage after the defeat of the Demon King. The anime received critical acclaim, holding a 100% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes and being praised for its emotional depth and character development.
4. Pluto
Pluto, a Netflix original, reimagined Osamu Tezuka’s Astro Boy into a dark, philosophical thriller. The series was lauded for its mature themes and stunning animation, earning praise from critics and audiences alike.
Fan-Favorite Rankings
According to Anime Corner’s 2023 Anime of the Year Awards, the top 10 fan-voted series were:
- Bungou Stray Dogs Season 5
- Attack on Titan Final Season
- Bleach: Thousand-Year Blood War – The Separation
- Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End
- Vinland Saga Season 2
- Jujutsu Kaisen Season 2
- The Dancers in My Heart
- Oshi no Ko
- Hell’s Paradise
- The Eminence in Shadow Season 2
What’s Next for Anime in 2024?
The anime industry continues to thrive, with 2024 promising even more groundbreaking series and adaptations. Fans can look forward to new seasons of beloved series and the introduction of fresh narratives that push the boundaries of animation and storytelling.
Final Thoughts
2023 was a remarkable year for anime, with a diverse array of series capturing the hearts of audiences worldwide. From the cyberpunk thrills of Edgerunners to the emotional depth of Frieren, the year showcased the versatility and creativity of the medium. As we move into 2024, the future of anime looks brighter than ever, with exciting new stories on the horizon.