These are some of the seasonal animes that I enjoyed watching for Spring 2023. Some of these were not as popular as other anime series. I wanted to check out a little of every genre this anime season. Hopefully, you find these animes as enjoyable as I did.
Oshi No Ko
Genres: Drama, Supernatural, Reincarnation
Season 1, 11 Episodes
In the entertainment world, celebrities often show exaggerated versions of themselves to the public, concealing their true thoughts and struggles beneath elaborate lies. Fans buy into these fabrications, showering their idols with undying love and support, until something breaks the illusion. But little do her fans know that Ai is one of the best Lairs in the entertainment industry. Hiding the truth from her fans, Ai gives birth to twins. However, Ai’s children are more than meets the eye.
This has to be one of the top animes this season. Oshi No Ko was created by Aka Akasaka who is best known for the series Love is War. What I enjoy about Akasaka’s work is how he is able to captivate his audience with a well-written, and entertaining story; alongside charismatic characters that keep you wanting more. What I really liked about the series; Oshi No Ko was the set up the show. We started strong with a 1-hour long first episode that immerses you as it explains the premise of the story. After the suspenseful and thrilling episode, you are hooked waiting for the rest of the series. As you continue to watch, you see how the story and characters are melding together to give life to the series. As I continue to watch the series, I am reminded of the movies Perfect Blue and Black Swan as we watch the twist and turns of trying to figure out who Ai really was. What secrets she kept, and how this will shape the main characters. Overall, this is an anime you should definitely check out for Spring 2023.
The Reason Why Raeliana Ended up at the Duke's Mansion
Season 1, 12 Episodes
Genres: Fantasy, Romance, Isekai
Rinko Hanasaki was your average girl until she was murdered. However, Rinko reincarnated as Raeliana McMillan, a minor character in a novel Rinko read. However, fate is not on her side since Raeliana will be killed by her future husband Lord Francis Brooks. Raeliana is determined to change her fate and end her engagement with Francis. Bringing her to the Duke Noah Wynknight door with a bargain. Will Raeliana be able to change her fate?
As a fan of the manhwa, I was super excited to see the series animated. What I enjoy about this series is how close they stick to the manhwa. Some of my favorite scenes were well done and encompass the interactions/ intend of the characters. I also enjoy how the voice actors in both the sub and dub versions are able to capture Noah’s personality through his actions and dialogue. Especially, when he is teasing Raeliana. Even though I am enjoying the series, there are some grips I have with the show. One being how the art style seems a bit stiff or rushed. However, the animation is not so bad that it deters from continuing the series. Overall, this is a fun anime to watch.
Mashle: Magic and Muscles
Season 1, 12 Episodes
Genres: Comedy, Action, Fantasy
In a magical world, one is easily identified as having magical abilities by a distinctive mark on their face. Those unable to practice magic are swiftly exterminated to maintain the magical integrity of society. However, deep within a forest the young Mash has been hidden away from society. When his existence is discovered will he be able to protect his family?
In all honesty, I started this anime off a friend’s recommendation, little did I know that I was going to enjoy this series so much. This anime reminds me of One Punch Man/ Saki with a dash of Harry Potter. Although, we can see the borrowed inspiration the characters are a fun bunch that help push the story. I enjoyed the gags and slap stick humor, it had me smiling or giggling to the series. The anime is a fun and chill anime to watch after a long day. 10 out of 10 recommended!
Skip and Loafer
Season 1, 12 Episodes
Genres: Drama, Seinen, Romance, Slice of Life
Mitsumi Iwakura is a small-town girl with big dreams. To pursue her dream of bringing positive change to Japan, she leaves her small countryside town to for the hustle and bustle of Tokyo. However, as Mitsumi travels to Tokyo to attend her prestigious high school she is met with a few bumps in the road. Will this small-town girl make it in the big city?
This is the romance anime that slipped through the cracks this season. Skip and Loafer is a great coming of age tale of friendship, romance, and bonds. Although, the high school romance genre is a bit overplayed, Skip and Loafer does it differently. This series gives the viewer a sense of authenticity as you watch the series. As we follow, Mitsumi befriending her classmates we are introduced high school students who are discovering themselves. We meet characters who feel like normal high school students. Students who show their animosity, awkwardness, jealousy and are hardworking. We see as they slowly get to know each other, how to depend on and befriend one another. This is a wonderful anime to check out for Spring 2023.
My Clueless First Friend
Season 1, 12 Episodes
Genres: Slice of Life, Comedy, Romance
Akane Nishimura's quiet nature makes her classmates perceive her as a gloomy and unlikeable person. Combined with her intimidating gaze, it earns Akane the ominous nickname "Grim Reaper," condemning her to endless bullying for her supposed cursed powers that bring misfortune to everyone around her. However, when Taiyou Takada transfers into the classroom Akane’s life is changed.
This had to be one of my favorite animes this season. It was so cute and adorable to watch. This was the anime I would put at dinner time to when I just wanted to chill and relax. A great feel-good anime to watch with friends and family. The characters are cute elementary schools’ kids learning about friendship and love but also about themselves. This anime reminds me of a time when being a kid was simple and easy. When I didn’t know about adulting. A fun mellow anime to watch.
Honorable Mentions
Insomniacs After School
The Ancient Magus' Bride Season 2
Sacrificial Princess and the King of Beasts
My Home Hero