Best Action Anime Of 2021: A Must-Watch List
Hey anime fans! If you're anything like me, you're always on the hunt for the next adrenaline-pumping, action-packed anime to binge-watch. Well, 2021 was a fantastic year for action anime, and I'm here to give you the lowdown on some of the absolute best shows that kept us glued to our screens. We're talking epic battles, stunning animation, and stories that'll grab you from the first episode and refuse to let go. So, grab your snacks, get comfy, and let's dive into the top action anime of 2021!
Unveiling the Titans: Why 2021 Was a Golden Year
Alright, guys, before we get into the nitty-gritty of individual anime, let's talk about why 2021 was such a stellar year for the action genre. Firstly, the animation quality across the board was incredible. Studios really pushed the boundaries, delivering visually stunning fight sequences that were a feast for the eyes. We saw some incredible use of CGI combined with traditional animation, creating a unique and dynamic viewing experience. Secondly, the stories themselves were top-notch. From intricate plots with complex characters to simple, straightforward tales of good versus evil, there was something for everyone. Many of these anime featured well-developed characters that you could connect with, making the action even more impactful. And let's not forget the sound design, with epic soundtracks that enhanced every battle and moment of tension. It's safe to say, 2021 delivered in spades when it came to action anime, leaving us with a wealth of choices to explore. This year was especially great because it brought a mix of new series and continuations of beloved franchises, meaning both new and veteran anime fans were satisfied. The innovation of 2021’s anime made the action scenes more dynamic than ever. With new animation techniques, and unique approaches to storytelling, the anime scene saw a massive leap forward. And what's even better, many of these series are available on major streaming platforms, so getting your hands on these incredible shows is easier than ever. This means you can get started on your anime adventure in minutes. If you’re like me, you probably have a running list of anime to watch, and hopefully, this list will give you some new additions.
The Rise of New Action Anime
The most exciting part about the anime industry is the continued evolution and the rise of new action anime. With the success of many new action anime series, the industry is seeing new studios, animators, and writers breaking into the scene. This means fresh perspectives, innovative animation techniques, and different types of stories. These new action anime series often blend various genres, creating a unique watching experience. You might see elements of sci-fi, fantasy, and even slice-of-life mixed in with the core action elements. This blend caters to a broader audience. It keeps the genre fresh and exciting, and opens the door for new stories to tell. The creators also don't shy away from complex themes, tackling everything from social issues to the complexities of human nature, which enhances the viewing experience. These new anime series bring a lot to the table, and they are constantly challenging our expectations. With unique approaches to animation and new stories to tell, the future of the action anime genre looks promising.
Top Contenders: The Action Anime that Dominated
Now, for the main event: let's jump into the best action anime of 2021! These are the shows that earned their spot in the hearts of fans around the world and were talked about for months after their release. Each of these anime offers something unique, whether it's breathtaking fight scenes, compelling characters, or a gripping storyline. Get ready to add some must-watch shows to your list!
Jujutsu Kaisen (Season 1)
Jujutsu Kaisen was a massive hit, and for good reason! This anime combines supernatural action with dark humor and a great cast of characters. The story follows Yuji Itadori, a high school student who swallows a cursed object to save his friends. This act binds a powerful curse to his soul, and he’s thrust into the world of Jujutsu sorcerers. He joins Tokyo Jujutsu High, where he learns to control his newfound powers and fight against curses. The animation is absolutely stunning, with each battle being a visual spectacle. The fight choreography is top-notch, and the use of special effects enhances the intensity of the action. Beyond the action, Jujutsu Kaisen explores themes of friendship, sacrifice, and the meaning of life and death, making it much more than just a typical action show. The characters are well-developed and relatable, with each having their unique personalities and motivations. The show is packed with intense action, and the animation quality is what makes the action stand out even more. If you're looking for an anime with great battles and emotional depth, Jujutsu Kaisen is a must-watch. The first season of Jujutsu Kaisen really set the stage for the series' future, and it is a great anime to start with.
Attack on Titan: The Final Season Part 1
Attack on Titan continued its epic saga in 2021 with the first part of its final season. This anime is known for its intense action, dark themes, and complex narrative. The story delves into a world where humanity is on the brink of extinction, battling giant humanoid creatures known as Titans. The final season takes the story to a whole new level, exploring themes of war, morality, and the consequences of conflict. The animation remains incredible, and the action sequences are as gripping as ever. The battles are brutal and intense, and the emotional impact is amplified by the show's dark tone. With the end of the series approaching, the stakes are higher than ever, and the characters are faced with difficult choices. If you’ve followed Attack on Titan from the beginning, then you were definitely on the edge of your seat. This season is filled with twists and turns, making it a compelling watch. The conclusion of the final season, and the events leading up to it, are a fantastic experience that will remain with you long after you're done watching.
Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba – Entertainment District Arc
Demon Slayer became a global phenomenon, and the Entertainment District Arc continued its popularity. This anime is renowned for its stunning visuals, emotional storytelling, and engaging action. The story follows Tanjiro Kamado, a young man who becomes a demon slayer after his family is murdered, and his sister is turned into a demon. He goes on a journey to find a cure for his sister and to avenge his family. The Entertainment District Arc takes Tanjiro and his friends to a new setting, where they battle powerful demons in a vibrant, neon-lit district. The animation quality is outstanding, and the fight scenes are breathtaking. The characters are well-developed, and the emotional impact of the story is significant. The anime strikes a balance between intense action and heartfelt moments, keeping you invested in the characters' journey. The fight scenes are also known for their creativity and stunning visuals. If you are a fan of stunning visuals and dynamic fights, this anime is for you. The Entertainment District Arc gave fans another reason to love this anime.
Others to Consider
While the above anime dominated the year, many other action anime were worth watching. Tokyo Revengers is a time-travel action anime about a delinquent who goes back in time to save his girlfriend. It features exciting fight scenes and a compelling story. 86 is a sci-fi action anime with mecha and a deep narrative about war and discrimination. With beautiful animation and compelling storytelling, these anime deserve attention and offer different flavors of action to enjoy. These series may not be as popular as the top contenders, but they're still worth exploring if you're looking for something new. These anime shows are a testament to the diversity of the action anime genre. Make sure to check them out if you want to broaden your horizons and find new favorites.
The Animation and Visuals: A Feast for the Eyes
Guys, one thing that truly stood out in 2021 was the incredible animation quality. Studios really stepped up their game, delivering visually stunning fight sequences that were a joy to watch. The use of CGI has become more sophisticated, seamlessly integrated with traditional animation to create dynamic, fluid action. This wasn't just about flashy effects; it was about enhancing the storytelling. The visual details in these shows helped convey the power of the characters, the intensity of the battles, and the emotional depth of the narrative. From the vibrant colors of Demon Slayer to the gritty realism of Attack on Titan, the visuals played a vital role in capturing our attention. The animation techniques used in action anime have evolved significantly. With new technologies, artists are able to create mind-blowing visual spectacles. Animation quality has become a major selling point for action anime, and 2021 delivered some of the best-looking anime ever made.
Fight Choreography and Cinematography
Besides animation, the fight choreography and cinematography played a massive role in making the action scenes so memorable. The way battles are staged, the camera angles, and the pacing all contributed to the excitement. The best anime of 2021 had fight scenes that felt like art, with each movement carefully planned and executed. We saw creative uses of slow motion, dynamic camera angles, and seamless transitions to create a cinematic experience. It's not just about watching a fight; it's about feeling the impact of every blow, anticipating the next move, and being completely absorbed in the action. Some anime took inspiration from different genres, like martial arts films and superhero comics, to create unique fighting styles. The fight scenes in 2021 had a huge visual impact because of the high level of detail, dynamic movements, and expert camera work. The choreography added to the overall appeal, making it a great watch.
Stories and Characters: Beyond the Battles
While the action is a major draw, what truly elevates an action anime is the story and the characters. In 2021, we saw anime that went beyond simple fight scenes, delving into complex narratives and well-developed characters that kept us invested in the stories. It's not just about the battles; it's about the emotional journeys, the sacrifices made, and the bonds between the characters. The best action anime explored themes like friendship, loss, and the nature of good and evil. They tackled difficult topics with nuance and made us question our values. The characters were relatable, with their own flaws, strengths, and motivations. We rooted for them, cheered them on, and felt their pain. This depth of storytelling made the action scenes more impactful, as we were invested in the outcome and the characters' fates. The depth of the stories and characters added to the action scenes. This added a layer of emotional weight to the battles, so you were invested in the outcome.
Character Development and Emotional Impact
Character development was a key aspect in 2021. The shows went into the backgrounds of the characters, their motivations, and the challenges they faced. We witnessed the characters grow and change throughout the series, which made us feel connected to them. The emotional impact of the stories was amplified by this focus on character development. Many anime explored themes such as sacrifice, love, and loss, which led to powerful and memorable moments. These anime showed us the impact of the characters' actions, as well as the relationships between them. These relationships made the action even more meaningful. The attention to detail in the character arcs made the action anime stand out from the rest. The anime explored the complexities of human relationships and emotions. This resulted in greater connection between the audience and the anime series.
Where to Watch These Action Anime
So, you're probably wondering where you can watch all these amazing anime, right? Luckily, the world of streaming has made it easier than ever to access your favorite shows. Many of the top action anime of 2021 are available on popular streaming services like Crunchyroll, Funimation, and Netflix. These platforms offer a vast library of anime, including subtitled and dubbed versions, so you can enjoy them however you prefer. Some shows may also be available on other platforms, so it’s always a good idea to check around. The streaming services have been constantly improving their libraries to include the top anime series. This means you can find these shows easily. So, get your subscription ready and prepare to dive into the world of action anime! These platforms often offer new episodes soon after they air in Japan. They also provide a great way to discover new anime and connect with other fans.
Conclusion: The Action Never Stops!
Alright, guys, that's a wrap on our look at the top action anime of 2021! It was a fantastic year for the genre, with tons of shows that kept us entertained. Whether you're a seasoned anime fan or new to the scene, there's something for everyone on this list. From epic battles and stunning visuals to complex stories and relatable characters, these anime had it all. So, go ahead and start watching – you won’t regret it! I'm already looking forward to seeing what the action anime world has in store for us in the future. With so many great shows to watch, you won’t get bored. There are several anime you will surely enjoy. So, grab your popcorn, find your favorite streaming platform, and enjoy the ride. Keep an eye out for more recommendations and reviews. Happy watching!