Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End is undoubtedly a contender for anime of the year, leaving an indelible mark on fans as 2024 progresses.

This year has seen a plethora of major anime releases, including blockbuster franchises making their debut and beloved series returning with new episodes. Amidst this stiff competition, “Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End” stands out as a significant highlight.

The series commenced its journey last fall, garnering attention with its initial episodes. However, it’s the latter half, airing in the winter of 2024, that truly elevates it to greatness.

Building upon the foundation laid in the first half, the series delivers even more stunning animation, poignant character moments, and the promise of a vast, adventurous world drawn from the original manga.

Why Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End is Anime of the Year

What makes “Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End” exceptional is its meticulous attention to detail, characteristic of anime produced by Studio Madhouse.

Every scene, from intimate character interactions to grand magical battles, is crafted with unparalleled care, setting a standard that few can match this year. The anime finds beauty in simplicity, whether it’s a character donning a coat or engaging in a low-stakes dance.

Beyond its visual prowess, “Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End” weaves a nice narrative. The introduction of numerous new characters in the latter half, particularly during the First Class Mage Exam arc, could have overwhelmed a lesser series. Yet, each character is fleshed out with distinct desires and traits, the audience’s hearts—such as the viral sensation Ubel.

However, amidst these new faces, the anime remains focused on its core themes. It explores life after the traditional fantasy story’s conclusion, emphasizing the significance of embracing life’s little moments.

As the series draws to a close, it leaves viewers with a profound message, even if there are no future plans for continuation. “Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End” concludes with such resonance that its impact will linger throughout the year.