Anime animation has always been a dynamic and evolving phenomenon, reflecting changes in styles, inspirations, and technological advancements.
Over the decades, various trends have emerged and faded, but the 2020s stand out as a particularly remarkable period for anime animation. In this era, animation studios have pushed the boundaries of creativity, producing visually stunning works that captivate audiences worldwide.
Here, we explore some of the best examples of anime animation from the 2020s, each showcasing unique styles and innovative techniques that elevate the storytelling experience.
Top 10 Anime Series With Exceptional Animation Since 2020
10. Horimiya
*IMDb Rating: 8.1; MyAnimeList Rating: 8.5*
Horimiya presents a heartwarming tale of young love and friendship set against the backdrop of high school life. The anime’s animation, executed by CloverWorks, beautifully captures the essence of romance through its expressive character designs and fluid movements.
Whether it’s the tender moments between the protagonists Hori and Miyamura or the interactions among the supporting cast, the animation breathes life into the story, conveying emotions with remarkable clarity.
Anime : Horimiya pic.twitter.com/pxhAGwnLGc
— anime aesthetics (@aesthetxcs_Pics) March 19, 2024
9. Oshi no Ko
*IMDb Rating: 8.4; MyAnimeList Rating: 8.7*
Oshi no Ko delves into the dark underbelly of the entertainment industry, juxtaposing themes of glamour with the harsh realities of fame.
The anime’s animation, characterized by vibrant visuals and dynamic transitions, expertly captures the dichotomy between the glittering facade of showbiz and the shadows lurking beneath. Through its use of color and imagery, Oshi no Ko immerses viewers in a world where success comes at a cost, and appearances can be deceiving.
8. Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End
*IMDb Rating: 9.0; MyAnimeList Rating: 9.2*
Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End offers a refreshing departure from conventional anime aesthetics, embracing a subdued color palette and a contemplative atmosphere reminiscent of a classic storybook.
The animation, courtesy of Madhouse, transports viewers to a fantastical realm where every frame feels like a work of art. By focusing on the quieter moments of the journey rather than the destination, Frieren captivates audiences with its evocative visuals and understated elegance.
7. Zom 100: Bucket List of the Dead
*IMDb Rating: 7.6; MyAnimeList Rating: 7.9*
Zom 100: Bucket List of the Dead offers a unique take on the zombie apocalypse genre, infusing its animation with vibrant colors and dynamic imagery.
As protagonist Akira Tendou navigates the chaos of a world overrun by the undead, the animation reflects his journey from monochrome drudgery to vivid exhilaration. Through its use of color symbolism and expressive visuals, Zom 100 creates a visually engaging experience that resonates with audiences on multiple levels.
6. Lycoris Recoil
*IMDb Rating: 7.6; MyAnimeList Rating: 8.2*
Lycoris Recoil combines adrenaline-fueled action with impeccable animation, courtesy of A-1 Pictures. The anime’s sleek character designs and fluid combat sequences are a testament to the studio’s mastery of the craft.
From intense gunplay to intricate choreography, Lycoris Recoil delivers exhilarating action scenes that are as visually stunning as they are thrilling. Against the backdrop of a secret government agency’s covert operations, the animation brings to life a world where danger lurks around every corner.
— Lycoris Recoil Frames (@LycoRecoFrames) March 19, 2024
5. Trigun Stampede
*IMDb Rating: 7.3; MyAnimeList Rating: 7.8*
Trigun Stampede reinvents a beloved 90s anime with cutting-edge animation techniques, opting for a three-dimensional art style that breathes new life into the iconic characters.
Produced by Toho Animation and Orange, the anime seamlessly blends CGI elements with traditional animation, creating a visually striking aesthetic that pays homage to its predecessor while embracing modern sensibilities. With its dynamic visuals and stylized realism, Trigun Stampede offers a fresh take on a timeless classic.
Most cgi anime I’ve seen don’t look very good but Trigun stampede looks amazing and is the best example of what a cgi anime should look like pic.twitter.com/YN9rzPOA9k
— cantsee (@Attack3561) March 13, 2024
4. Chainsaw Man
*IMDb Rating: 8.4; MyAnimeList Rating: 8.5*
Chainsaw Man, courtesy of MAPPA, immerses viewers in a world of visceral horror and supernatural intrigue, brought to life through stunning animation that doesn’t shy away from the grotesque.
From the gruesome battles to the eerie landscapes, every frame is meticulously crafted to evoke a sense of dread and awe. With its expert use of lighting and shadow, Chainsaw Man creates an atmosphere of relentless tension that keeps audiences on the edge of their seats.
3. Toilet-Bound Hanako-kun
*IMDb Rating: 7.5; MyAnimeList Rating: 7.8*
Toilet-Bound Hanako-kun distinguishes itself with its unique watercolor-inspired animation, creating a visually distinctive world that blurs the line between fantasy and reality.
Produced by Lerche, the anime’s ethereal aesthetic and luminous palette lend a dreamlike quality to its supernatural narrative. Through its innovative use of lighting and texture, Toilet-Bound Hanako-kun transports viewers to a realm where every shadow hides a secret, and every color tells a story.
Friendly little ghost 👻 (via Toilet-bound Hanako-kun) pic.twitter.com/sr0MEnOKef
— Crunchyroll (@Crunchyroll) November 11, 2023
2. Cyberpunk: Edgerunners
*IMDb Rating: 8.3; MyAnimeList Rating: 8.6*
Cyberpunk: Edgerunners, a collaboration between CD Projekt RED and Studio Trigger, dazzles audiences with its breathtaking animation and futuristic aesthetic.
Set in the gritty streets of Night City, the anime immerses viewers in a neon-lit world of cybernetic enhancements and corporate intrigue. With its dynamic character designs and kinetic action sequences, Cyberpunk: Edgerunners captures the essence of the cyberpunk genre while pushing the boundaries of visual storytelling.
wdig is actually so underrated. it’s cyberpunk anime excellence. only bad bitches get her. pic.twitter.com/jOzu3GMejj
— shio (@sannipanyeo) March 19, 2024
1. Jujutsu Kaisen
*IMDb Rating: 8.6; MyAnimeList Rating: 8.6*
Jujutsu Kaisen, produced by MAPPA, stands as a pinnacle of animation excellence, captivating audiences with its breathtaking visuals and dynamic action sequences.
From the intricate spellcasting to the bone-crushing battles, every frame is a testament to the studio’s talent and dedication. With its fluid animation and expressive character designs, Jujutsu Kaisen transports viewers to a world where the supernatural clashes with the mundane, creating an immersive experience that leaves a lasting impression.
The 2020s have witnessed a renaissance in anime animation, with studios pushing the boundaries of creativity and innovation to new heights.
From the dazzling neon of Cyberpunk: Edgerunners to the haunting watercolors of Toilet-Bound Hanako-kun, each anime on this list offers a glimpse into the boundless potential of the medium. As we look ahead to the future, one thing is certain: the evolution of anime animation is far from over, and the best is yet to come.
