The Winter 2024 Anime Season was a delightful treat for anime lovers. It brought forth some fantastic new series and marked the return of some much-loved ones. This offered a wide array of first-rate shows, many of which are still creating a buzz.
However, some shows could not garner the attention they deserved. They were overshadowed by their more famous counterparts or had a lackluster start that discouraged viewers from continuing.
With that said, let’s look at the five best and worst anime in the Winter 2024 season.
5 Best Winter 2024 Anime
5Delicious in Dungeon
Studio: Trigger
‘Delicious in Dungeon’ may appear to have a simple premise for a fantasy anime, but it distinguishes itself with its unique qualities. The story starts as a delightful comedy that cleverly subverts fantasy clichés.
Each main character is charming and well-developed, with distinct roles that justify their inclusion in the group. The series’ future looks incredibly promising, as it is set to run through the spring of 2024.
4A Sign of Affection
Studio: Ajia-Do
For fans of pure romance, ‘A Sign of Affection’ is a must-watch anime that comes highly recommended. This series explores the theme of love while steering clear of the rom-com area. Moreover, it features characters of college age who exhibit behavior that aligns with their maturity.
Although it has occasionally fallen into a pattern, especially after the official commencement of Yuki and Itsuomi’s relationship, this does not compromise the show’s quality but rather indicates a consistent narrative structure. The secondary characters are varied, with some, like a possessive childhood friend, evoking mixed reactions.
3Classroom of the Elite 3
Studio: Lerche
Season 3 of ‘Classroom of the Elite’ continues its tradition of showcasing strategic mind games and academic rivalry. It also adds more challenges for Ayanokouji to test his limits. The key characters of Arisu Sakayanagi and Honami Ichinose gain more prominence, highlighting their unique influence.
Despite some storylines’ rapid pace, the season delivers critical moments of suspense and character development. It concludes on a high note, underscoring Ayanokouji’s complex nature.
2Mashle: Magic And Muscles – The Divine Visionary Candidate Exam Arc
Studio: A-1 Pictures
‘Mashle: Magic and Muscles’ combines Harry Potter’s enchantment with battle shonen’s dynamism. Season 1 was enjoyable but lacked depth, with Mash being the sole standout character. Season 2, however, expands the universe, enhances character development, and introduces compelling villains, elevating the series.
The Divine Visionary Candidate Exam Arc shines, showcasing Mash’s strength and the deep bonds among the characters. Alongside a roster of memorable antagonists, the series has found its stride, promising shonen fans a mix of humor and action.
1Solo Leveling
Studio: A-1 Pictures
Undoubtedly, ‘Solo Leveling’ was the most anticipated anime of Winter 2024. As the adaptation of a highly celebrated manhwa, it had lofty expectations to fulfill, and A-1 Pictures has largely succeeded. The first episode, while exposition-heavy, set the stage for the series, albeit with uneven pacing.
However, it served as a solid introduction, and the following episodes have truly lived up to the excitement. They showcase the series’ signature intense action and a compelling protagonist with immense potential.
5 Worst Winter 2024 Anime
5My Instant Death Ability Is So Overpowered
Studio: Okuruto Noburo
This anime is a classic example of an overpowered main character. While most isekai anime with OP protagonists still manage to create suspense, this one falls flat. The main character faces no real threats and doesn’t have to use intricate strategies to accomplish his goals.
Other anime with overpowered main characters usually balance it with excellent storytelling, humor, or memorable characters, but this show lacks any of that.
4The Foolish Angel Dances With the Devil
Studio: Children’s Playground Entertainment
The anime starts strong with a delightful comedic presence that captures the audience’s attention. However, as the series progresses, the initial positive impression worsens.
The show boasts charming characters and moments of effective humor, but the comedy tends to be excessive, often inserted into scenes where it feels out of place. This over-the-top approach to humor is the show’s downfall. When the jokes fail to hit the mark, they detract from the overall experience, ruining the show’s potential.
3Tales of Wedding Rings
Studio: Staple Entertainment
Critics fault the anime’s lackluster protagonist and unrealistic plot elements, precisely the hero’s eagerness to battle formidable monsters despite being weak. Although the art is praised as a positive aspect, it fails to compensate for the overall dissatisfaction with the character development and storyline.
2Metallic Rouge
Studio: Bones
‘Metallic Rouge’ is not the worst anime of the season but is a complex mix of sci-fi action and cyberpunk elements. Initially promising, it becomes convoluted with rapid pacing and unclear themes.
Despite its flaws, the series offers enjoyable moments, mainly focusing on the characters’ chemistry. Its main issue is trying to fit too much content into a short space, resulting in a chaotic yet engaging experience.
1Gushing Over Magical Girls
Studio: Asahi Production
The anime show has come under fire for its subpar execution as a magical girl series. It has faced criticism for its excessive ecchi content and stereotypical characters.
Despite being touted as a deep and meaningful coming-of-age tale or an exploration of sexuality, it fails to deliver and offers little beyond the usual ecchi tropes.
Please note that this list reflects our opinions and may differ from person to person. It is always advisable to watch the anime before making any final decisions.
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