The Spring 2024 anime season has finally arrived, bringing with it a plethora of shows to make their mark in the industry. As usual, the lineup boasts a mix of sequels and fresh titles, with the former typically stealing the spotlight.
However, amidst the familiar favorites, there are several newcomers with the potential to carve out their own niche and potentially spawn sequels in the future.
Spring 2024 offers a diverse range of genres and demographics, though the distribution may not be entirely equal. Nevertheless, there’s something for everyone to enjoy, catering to a wide spectrum of tastes and preferences. For those feeling overwhelmed by the choices, fret not—there are standout recommendations that promise to deliver the cream of the crop from the Spring 2024 lineup.
Whether you’re in the mood for comedy, romance, or something entirely different, Spring 2024 has something to offer. So, grab your snacks, settle in, and prepare to be immersed in the best anime that the season has to offer.
11. Jellyfish Can’t Swim In The Night
With the title “Yoru no Kurage wa Oyogenai,” the expectations were high for this original anime, especially given Doga Kobo’s track record of recent successes. The story revolves around a group of girls who come together to form an artists’ collective, symbolized by a jellyfish logo.
Among them is Kano, a musician and former idol striving to shed her past persona and reinvent herself as a V-Tuber with genuine authenticity.
Mahiru, once an aspiring artist who abandoned her passion due to unexpected criticism, finds herself encouraged to resume drawing by Kano, who admires a jellyfish mural she created in her childhood. The trio is completed by Kimura, a devoted fan of Kano’s idol days who also happens to be a talented composer.
“Jellyfish Can’t Swim in the Night” has thus far dedicated itself to fleshing out the backgrounds, insecurities, ambitions, and obstacles of its main characters. While the cast is likely to expand further, Kano, Mahiru, and Kimura form a solid core, their interactions brimming with chemistry.
Despite their diverse pasts, the girls are united in their quest to move beyond their histories, finding strength in each other’s company. Alongside its compelling narrative and stellar animation, the series consistently delivers humor in abundance, further cementing its appeal.
“Yoru no Kurage wa Oyogenai” translates to “Jellyfish Don’t Swim at Night.” It’s a Japanese manga series written and illustrated by Rumi Umezawa. The manga was serialized in Hakusensha’s “Hana to Yume” magazine from 2011 to 2013 and later compiled into a single volume.
The story revolves around Tsukimi Kurashita, a socially awkward young woman who is passionate about jellyfish. She lives in an apartment building called Amamizukan, which is inhabited by a group of eccentric female otaku with different interests.
Tsukimi’s life takes an unexpected turn when she encounters a stylish and fashionable woman named Kuranosuke Koibuchi. Despite their differences, Kuranosuke becomes involved with Tsukimi and her friends, leading to comedic and heartwarming adventures.
The manga finds themes of friendship, self-discovery, and acceptance, as the characters find their way through various challenges and personal growth. “Jellyfish Don’t Swim at Night” is praised for its charming characters, unique premise, and humor. It also received an anime adaptation titled “Princess Jellyfish,” which aired in 2010.
Fans of slice-of-life manga with quirky characters and heartwarming stories often enjoy “Jellyfish Don’t Swim at Night” for its endearing portrayal of friendship and individuality.
10. Wind Breaker
Sometimes, simplicity proves to be the most effective approach. In “Wind Breaker,” we follow Haruka Sakura, a troubled teenager who has always found himself on the outskirts of society through no fault of his own.
Seeking refuge in violence, Haruka enrolls at Furin High School under the notorious Makochi’s wing, hoping to test his mettle against formidable fighters.
However, he soon discovers that both the town and the school have undergone significant changes in recent years, thanks to Furin’s Bofurin gang striving to maintain peace on the streets. While clashes are still commonplace, Haruka realizes that he cannot exist in isolation.
Wind Breaker may not revolutionize the shonen action genre with its standard protagonist and delinquent-infused setting, but it effectively employs familiar tropes.
Haruka’s character is easily relatable, and he is surrounded by a cast of characters who help temper his fiery temperament. Moreover, CloverWorks’ animation is top-notch, bringing both quiet moments and adrenaline-pumping fight sequences to life with finesse.
9. That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime Season 3
Isekai often faces criticism for its tendency to rely heavily on simplistic power fantasies. “That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime” fits snugly into this category, yet it stands out as a shining example of the genre’s allure when executed with finesse.
Rimuru’s quest to bring harmony to monster-kind is primarily characterized by a light-hearted tone, occasionally punctuated by moments of tension. While season 2 saw its fair share of surprises, the Jura Tempest Federation largely emerged victorious.
Season 3 is poised to continue this trajectory, maintaining a delicate balance between gentle political intrigue, beautifully animated action sequences, slice-of-life escapades, and the growing adulation surrounding Rimuru.
As in previous installments, the protagonist acts as a unifying force, drawing together a diverse array of fascinating and charismatic characters, from Diablo to the Demon Lords.
“That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime” is a Japanese light novel series written by Fuse and illustrated by Mitz Vah. It has been adapted into manga, anime, and other media.
The story follows Satoru Mikami, an ordinary salaryman who gets killed in a random stabbing incident. After his death, he is reincarnated into a fantasy world as a slime monster named Rimuru Tempest. Despite his new form, Rimuru retains his memories and intellect from his previous life.
In his new life, Rimuru discovers that he has unique abilities as a slime, including the power to absorb other creatures and gain their skills and powers. He sets out on a journey to find the world, make friends, and build a community where all races can live together in harmony.
As Rimuru travels and encounters various beings, he gains allies and forms alliances with different nations and factions. He also faces off against powerful enemies and threats to the peace of the world. Along the way, Rimuru uses his newfound powers and knowledge to protect his friends and create a better world for everyone.
“That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime” is known for its engaging story, likable characters, and creative world-building. It combines elements of fantasy, adventure, and humor, with Rimuru’s unique perspective as a slime, adding a fresh twist to the isekai genre. The anime adaptation has received praise for its animation quality and faithful adaptation of the source material.
Fans of fantasy anime with a light-hearted tone and a focus on world-building and character development often enjoy “That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime” for its entertaining and heartwarming story.
8. Spice and Wolf: Merchant Meets the Wise Wolf
Revisiting a beloved classic is always a risky endeavor. Isuna Hasekura’s “Spice and Wolf” light novel stands as a timeless fantasy masterpiece, and the 2008 anime adaptation is held in high regard by fans.
Therefore, Ookami to Koushinryou: Merchant Meets the Wise Wolf faces the daunting task of not only living up to the brilliance of the source material but also potentially surpassing a beloved adaptation. Passione, the studio behind the project, must bring their A-game to the table.
While it’s still early days, there are promising signs that the studio may just succeed in this challenging endeavor. “Spice and Wolf: Merchant Meets the Wise Wolf” appears to have captured the essence of Holo and Kraft Lawrence’s characters flawlessly.
Both characters are depicted as fully realized individuals with rich histories that shape their present and future trajectories. Moreover, their dynamic is portrayed authentically, with Lawrence’s pragmatism serving as the perfect foil to Holo’s otherworldly charm and capriciousness.
“Spice and Wolf” is a Japanese light novel series written by Isuna Hasekura, with illustrations by Juu Ayakura. It has been adapted into manga, anime, and other media.
The story is set in a medieval fantasy world and follows the travels of Kraft Lawrence, a traveling merchant, and Holo, a wolf deity who takes the form of a young woman with wolf ears and tail.
Holo, also known as the “Wise Wolf of Yoitsu,” is the harvest deity of the nearby town of Pasloe, but as people began to move away from their rural lifestyle, she is left to wander alone. She strikes a deal with Lawrence to accompany him on his journey in exchange for helping him increase his profits.
As they travel together, Lawrence and Holo engage in various business ventures, trading goods and negotiating deals while also forming a deep bond with each other. Along the way, they encounter economic challenges, political intrigue, and personal struggles, all while Holo searches for her long-lost home of Yoitsu.
“Spice and Wolf” is known for its unique blend of economics, romance, and fantasy elements. The series finds themes of commerce, human nature, and the passage of time, all set against the backdrop of a richly detailed medieval world. The dynamic between Lawrence and Holo, characterized by their banter and mutual reliance, is a highlight of the series and has endeared them to fans worldwide.
The anime adaptation of “Spice and Wolf” received critical acclaim for its beautiful animation, compelling storytelling, and nuanced characters. It has garnered a dedicated fanbase and is often praised for its mature and thought-provoking themes.
Fans of romance, fantasy, and stories with intelligent dialogue and intricate world-building often find “Spice and Wolf” to be a nice and memorable series.
7. Laid-Back Camp Season 3
It’s interesting how slice-of-life stories seem to be somewhat rare these days. While most anime seasons may include one or two SOL series, they’re not as prevalent as they once were.
Luckily, Spring 2024 brings us a standout in the genre with the third season of “Yuru Camp.” This series is like a breath of fresh air, offering relaxation and a sense of freedom while showcasing some of Japan’s most stunning scenery.
As always, the members of the Outdoors Activities Club are eagerly anticipating their next camping trip, brainstorming ideas while enjoying each other’s company.
Meanwhile, Rin continues her solo expeditions, reflecting on fond memories of her grandfather, whose passion for camping ignited her own love for the outdoors. “Laid-Back Camp” is a delightful blend of sweetness, humor, and tranquility, making it the perfect antidote to even the most stressful of days.
“Laid-Back Camp,” also known as “Yuru Camp△” in Japanese, is a slice-of-life manga series written and illustrated by Afro. It has been adapted into an anime series, as well as a live-action drama.
The story follows a group of high school girls who enjoy camping and outdoor activities. The main protagonist, Rin Shima, is a solo camper who loves the peace and solitude of camping alone.
One day, she meets Nadeshiko Kagamihara, a cheerful and outgoing girl who recently moved to the area. Nadeshiko becomes fascinated with camping after seeing Mount Fuji from afar and decides to join the Outdoor Activities Club at her school.
As Rin and Nadeshiko become friends, they, along with other members of the Outdoor Activities Club, get on various camping trips together. The series showcases their adventures, camping experiences, and the bonds they form through their shared love of the outdoors.
“Laid-Back Camp” is known for its relaxing atmosphere, beautiful scenery, and charming characters. It offers viewers a sneak peek into the joys of camping, from planning and preparation to enjoying meals and stargazing by the campfire. The series also features helpful camping tips and information about real-life camping locations in Japan.
The anime adaptation of “Laid-Back Camp” received widespread praise for its soothing and heartwarming storytelling, as well as its stunning visuals and detailed backgrounds. It has become popular among fans of slice-of-life and relaxation-themed anime.
Fans of “Laid-Back Camp” often appreciate its tranquil atmosphere, lovable characters, and the sense of camaraderie it portrays among friends enjoying the simple pleasures of nature.
6. KonoSuba: God’s Blessing on This Wonderful World!
Kazuma, Megumin, Aqua, and Darkness are back and as hilarious as ever in “Kono Subarashii Sekai ni Shukufuku wo!”—the definitive isekai parody. This series expertly pokes fun at the genre while still delivering enough thrills to keep fans entertained.
Filled with irreverent humor and featuring characters that are both “awful” yet irresistible, the show consistently pushes boundaries while maintaining its effortless banter between the four leads.
Season 3, thus far, has remained true to the spirit of KonoSuba. The humor hasn’t evolved significantly, the characters are largely unchanged, and the storylines are often inconsequential. However, if something isn’t broken, there’s no need to fix it—and KonoSuba is far from broken.
“KonoSuba: God’s Blessing on This Wonderful World!” is a Japanese light novel series written by Natsume Akatsuki and illustrated by Kurone Mishima. It has been adapted into multiple media formats, including anime, manga, and video games.
The story follows Kazuma Satou, a young shut-in gamer who dies in a rather embarrassing and comical way. After his death, he meets the goddess Aqua, who offers him the chance to be reincarnated into a fantasy world with one special item or ability of his choice. Kazuma, thinking it’s a joke, chooses Aqua herself.
In this new world, Kazuma finds himself in a comedic and dysfunctional party with Aqua, the explosive-obsessed mage Megumin, and the masochistic crusader Darkness. Together, they get on various adventures, quests, and misadventures, often facing off against incompetent enemies, absurd situations, and the consequences of their own antics.
“KonoSuba” is known for its hilarious comedy, parodying the typical tropes and conventions of the isekai (another world) genre. It features a mix of slapstick humor, witty banter, and absurd situations, with a colorful cast of characters who each have their own quirks and flaws.
The anime adaptation of “KonoSuba” received widespread acclaim for its humor, animation quality, and voice-acting performances. It has garnered a dedicated fanbase and multiple seasons, as well as spin-off material.
Fans of comedy and fantasy anime often enjoy “KonoSuba” for its irreverent take on the isekai genre and its entertaining portrayal of dysfunctional adventurers trying to make their way in a fantasy world.
5. Train to the End of the World
“Shuumatsu Train Doko e Iku?” presents a unique and intriguing premise for its debut in Spring 2024. Set in a Japan transformed by the introduction of 7G, which inexplicably turned adults over 18 into animals, the series finds a world where humanity is gradually fading away.
Amidst this bizarre reality, a group of girls from a small town, curious about the outside world, gets on a journey after spotting a friend’s image in a newspaper from another city. Thus, they board a train and venture into the post-apocalyptic unknown.
“Train to the End of the World” has made a charming and imaginative start, raising compelling questions that promise exciting answers.
With a lighthearted tone that doesn’t undermine the seriousness of its premise, EMT Squared’s anime sets the stage for a fresh adventure filled with thrills, laughter, and suspense. Here’s hoping the series lives up to its potential, as the second episode demonstrated a promising blend of humor and tension.
4. Mushoku Tensei: Jobless Reincarnation Season 2 Part 2
Isekai has its fair share of divisive titles, but “Mushoku Tensei 2: Isekai Ittara Honki Dasu” undoubtedly takes the cake as one of the most controversial representatives of the genre.
While some hail it as the pinnacle of isekai storytelling and among the finest fantasy series ever produced, others find it lacking due to its protagonist, Rudeus, who starts off as unlikeable and has shown only marginal growth since then.
By now, most viewers likely know whether they want to join Rudeus on his journey or not, and attempting to change anyone’s opinion may prove futile.
Focusing solely on the current arc, “Mushoku Tensei” appears to be laying the groundwork for an engaging storyline that will hopefully look deeper into the world’s politics and mythology—two aspects that have always been strong points of the anime.
With Rudeus and Sylphy contemplating marriage and settling down, the stage is set for new adventures. However, Rudeus also seems poised to launch on a quest to find his mother—a quest that was sidelined in the previous arc.
“Mushoku Tensei: Jobless Reincarnation” is a Japanese light novel series written by Rifujin na Magonote and illustrated by Shirotaka. It has been adapted into manga, anime, and other media.
The story follows the life of a 34-year-old NEET (Not in Education, Employment, or Training) named Rudeus Greyrat, who gets hit by a truck while saving strangers from it.
After his death, he is reincarnated into a fantasy world as a baby named Rudeus, retaining his memories and intellect from his previous life. Determined to make the most of his second chance, Rudeus resolves to live a fulfilling life in this new world.
As Rudeus grows up, he discovers that he possesses immense magical talent and begins training in various forms of magic. With the help of his wise mentor, Roxy Migurdia, and his family, he learns about the world’s magic, culture, and society. Along the way, Rudeus experiences friendship, love, loss, and personal growth, as he finds the challenges and adventures of his new life.
“Mushoku Tensei” is known for its immersive world-building, complex characters, and rich storytelling. It finds themes of redemption, self-discovery, and the consequences of one’s actions. The series has garnered a dedicated fanbase and is often praised for its compelling narrative and well-developed characters.
The anime adaptation of “Mushoku Tensei: Jobless Reincarnation” premiered in 2021 and received positive reviews for its animation quality, faithful adaptation of the source material, and emotional depth.
Fans of fantasy light novels and isekai stories with character-driven plots and detailed world-building often find “Mushoku Tensei: Jobless Reincarnation” to be a compelling and engaging series.
3. Whisper Me A Love Song
Based on Eku Takeshima’s beloved yuri manga, “Sasayaku You ni Koi wo Utau” delves into the realm of young, passionate love. The story revolves around Himari Kino, an energetic and bubbly high school first-year who experiences “love at first sight” when she hears Yori Asanagi perform a song during the opening ceremony.
However, Himari’s love for Yori initially stems from admiration as a fan. Despite this, when Himari confesses her feelings to Yori, the latter mistakes it for a declaration of romantic love and promptly falls head over heels for Himari. As Yori realizes her misunderstanding, she hopes to kindle genuine affection in Himari’s heart.
While HIDIVE may not boast many seasonal exclusives this time around, “Jellyfish Can’t Swim in the Night” and “Whisper Me a Love Song” are both emerging as standouts of Spring 2024’s anime lineup. Himari and Yori, instantly endearing characters, exude charisma and warmth, sharing an undeniable chemistry.
Himari’s vibrant personality commands attention in every scene, while Yori’s relatable shyness adds a grounding element to the show, setting the stage for a potentially heartwarming and poignant romance.
“Whisper Me a Love Song” (Japanese: “Sasayaku You ni Koi o Utau”) is a yuri manga series written and illustrated by Eku Takeshima. It was serialized in Ichijinsha’s Comic Yuri Hime magazine starting in 2019 and has since been collected into tankobon volumes.
The story follows the relationship between two high school girls, Yori Suzushiro and Himari Asaki. Yori is a shy and introverted girl who prefers to keep to herself and avoid social interactions.
Himari, on the other hand, is outgoing, popular, and a talented musician. Despite their contrasting personalities, Yori becomes fascinated by Himari’s singing voice and gradually finds herself drawn to her.
As their friendship deepens, Yori begins to develop romantic feelings for Himari, but she struggles to express her emotions openly. Meanwhile, Himari harbors her own feelings for Yori but is unsure how to convey them. The series finds the complexities of love, friendship, and self-discovery as the two girls find their evolving relationship.
“Whisper Me a Love Song” is praised for its heartwarming story, relatable characters, and beautiful artwork. It captures the delicate nuances of teenage romance and the challenges of coming to terms with one’s feelings.
The manga has garnered a dedicated fanbase and is well-regarded within the Yuri genre for its authentic portrayal of love and emotional depth.
Fans of yuri manga and romance stories with compelling character dynamics often find “Whisper Me a Love Song” to be a touching and enjoyable read.
2. Kaiju No. 8
Spring 2024 may not boast the same level of hype as series like “Solo Leveling” or “Frieren,” but it still offers its fair share of highly-anticipated new anime. Among them, “Kaiju No. 8” stands out as the top pick, and Production I.G’s adaptation has made a stellar debut.
In this world, Japan combats the constant threat of kaiju with a special military force armed with weapons crafted from the monsters they hunt. Kafka, unable to pass the Defense Force’s exam, settles for the mundane task of cleaning up post-battle wreckage—until his life takes a drastic turn when he accidentally ingests a small kaiju and transforms into one himself.
The series kicks off with an action-packed opening episode that deftly establishes the world’s current state, the significance of the Defense Force, Kafka’s dissatisfaction with his lot in life, and a budding friendship between Kafka and Reno.
Alongside this, “Kaiju No. 8” treats viewers to two impressive and distinct action sequences, showcasing imaginative kaiju designs that hint at the diverse array of monsters yet to be encountered.
Despite his extraordinary circumstances, Kafka is portrayed as a surprisingly relatable character—an everyday person thrust into an extraordinary situation, adding depth and realism to the story.
“Kaiju No. 8” is a Japanese manga series written and illustrated by Naoya Matsumoto. It began serialization on the online platform Shonen Jump+ in July 2020 and has quickly gained popularity.
The story is set in a world where humanity is under constant threat from kaiju, giant monsters that wreak havoc on civilization. The protagonist, Kafka Hibino, is a low-ranking member of the Defense Force, tasked with fighting against these kaiju. However, Kafka dreams of rising through the ranks to become a member of the prestigious Kaiju Defense Force.
One day, during a battle with a kaiju, Kafka finds himself infected with kaiju cells, granting him incredible powers and transforming him into a humanoid kaiju hybrid. Now, Kafka must find the challenges of his new form while also contending with the dangers of the kaiju-infested world.
“Kaiju No. 8” is known for its dynamic action scenes, compelling story, and well-developed characters. It combines elements of science fiction, action, and drama to create an exciting and immersive narrative. The manga has received praise for its unique premise, fast-paced storytelling, and high-quality artwork.
“Kaiju No. 8” has garnered a large and dedicated fanbase since its debut, and it continues to attract readers with its thrilling plot twists and character development. Fans of action-packed manga with a twist of sci-fi and monster battles often find “Kaiju No. 8” to be an exhilarating and enjoyable read.
1. Sound! Euphonium Season 3
Among the plethora of sequels gracing Spring 2024, “Hibike! Euphonium 3” has the potential to shine as one of the best, despite the likelihood of being overlooked by many. Kyoto Animation’s music-centric series has garnered a dedicated following over the years, though it remains more of a cult favorite than a mainstream hit.
Nevertheless, existing fans can eagerly anticipate weekly episodes that continue to chronicle Kitauji High School’s band club’s journey toward winning a national competition. For Kumiko, who is in her final year of high school, this season marks her last chance to pursue her dream.
“Sound! Euphonium 3” has excelled in introducing a host of new club members, including the exceptionally talented Mayu Kuroe, who shares Kumiko’s instrument.
With its trademark stellar animation, compelling storytelling, endearing characters, and a palpable sense of drama, “Sound! Euphonium 3” is poised to be a standout in Spring 2024’s anime lineup.
“Sound! Euphonium” is a Japanese novel series written by Ayano Takeda and illustrated by Nikki Asada. It has been adapted into various media formats, including anime, manga, and films.
The story revolves around the Kitauji High School Concert Band, particularly focusing on the experiences of its members as they strive for excellence in music and performance. The main protagonist is Kumiko Oumae, a first-year high school student who joins the concert band after being inspired by its performance in middle school.
As Kumiko finds the challenges of high school life and band competitions, she forms friendships, confronts personal insecurities, and discovers her passion for music.
Alongside her fellow band members, including the talented trumpeter Reina Kousaka, Kumiko works tirelessly to improve her skills and achieve success in the competitive world of high school band competitions.
“Sound! Euphonium” is known for its realistic portrayal of the joys and struggles of being in a high school band, as well as its beautiful music performances and character-driven storytelling. The series finds themes of friendship, dedication, and the pursuit of one’s dreams, resonating with audiences who have a passion for music and the arts.
The anime adaptation of “Sound! Euphonium” received critical acclaim for its stunning animation, emotional depth, and memorable soundtrack. It has garnered a dedicated fanbase and multiple seasons, as well as films and spin-off material.
Fans of music-themed anime with compelling characters and heartfelt storytelling often find “Sound! Euphonium” to be a nice and emotionally resonant series.