Whenever it comes to famous anime, they are often too long, with many seasons or a long-running format that aren’t always suitable for beginners. For someone looking to explore the world of anime, it’s often better to start with something that has fewer than 50 episodes, so watching a new series doesn’t become daunting. Not to mention that even anime fans sometimes need a break from the trending shows and explore more series that aren’t bound by the limitations of a typical battle Shonen. A while back, Comic Book published a list of 10 short anime series perfect for beginners, followed by another list of recommendations that are just as good as the previous list.

However, the anime industry has a lot more to offer, so we have curated another list of short series that deserve to be on everyone’s watch list, not just beginners.

Run With the Wind

Image Courtesy of Production I.G.

This forgotten, hidden gem adapts the story in just 23 episodes, following a group of youngsters and their passion for running. The story is realistic in many ways, focusing on motivation and hard work instead of flashy elements or animation, making it all the more relatable. As a fan of sports anime, I found “Run With the Wind” to be a refreshing take on the genre, showcasing the struggles and triumphs of the characters in a compelling way.

Violet Evergarden

Image Courtesy of Kyoto Animation

Beneath the breathtaking visuals and beautiful setting, the story is about healing and understanding those around you. As a former child soldier, Violet spent most of her life on the battlefield, living merely to follow orders. Now that the war is over, she must find a new purpose in life, but blending into society isn’t easy for someone unable to express her emotions. The emotional depth of “Violet Evergarden” is truly captivating, making it a must-watch for any anime fan.

Dororo

Image Courtesy of MAPPA

The anime is a reboot of the 1969 series based on one of Osamu Tezuka’s most underrated works. The story is intense, filled with unimaginable struggles faced by the protagonist, Hyakkimaru, yet he continues to fight each day just to earn the right to exist in this world. As a fan of Tezuka’s works, I was impressed by the dark themes and character development in “Dororo,” making it a standout series in the anime industry.

Death Parade

Image Courtesy of Madhouse

As an original series, Death Parade often goes unnoticed despite having gorgeous visuals and layers of mystery. The series, which didn’t return with a sequel season, explores the complexities of human nature as they reveal their true selves in the face of danger. The psychological aspect of “Death Parade” is incredibly intriguing, delving into the depths of human emotions and morality in a unique way.

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