Top 10 Most Underrated Anime of All Time

In the vast and colorful world of anime, some shows shine so brightly that they become cultural icons—everyone knows the likes of Naruto, One Piece, and Attack on Titan. But what about those hidden gems that sit quietly in the shadows? The ones that never get the spotlight they deserve? Today, we’re digging deep to uncover the Top 10 Most Underrated Anime of All Time—shows that might’ve flown under your radar but deserve a place in your watchlist.

Imagine finding a long-forgotten treasure chest filled with stories so profound, animations so unique, and characters so rich they make you wonder how you missed them. Whether you’re a veteran otaku or a casual anime fan, this list will introduce you to masterpieces that break the mold, challenge conventions, and offer something truly unforgettable.

But before we dive in, let me tell you this: anime isn’t just a medium; it’s a kaleidoscope of emotions and genres, from heartwarming slice-of-life tales to mind-bending psychological thrillers. Each anime on this list has its unique flavor—like tasting a gourmet dish for the first time, unsure what to expect, only to be blown away. Let’s kick things off with a surreal classic that’s as much a visual experience as it is an emotional journey.

1. Kaiba (Genre: Sci-Fi, Drama, Romance)

Picture this: a world where memories can be transferred between bodies, making death obsolete. Sounds futuristic, right? But what if those same memories could be stolen, erased, or manipulated? Kaiba explores this hauntingly beautiful concept, blending surrealism with deep existential questions about identity and love.

Directed by Masaaki Yuasa (Devilman Crybaby, Ping Pong the Animation), Kaiba is a feast for the eyes and the mind. Its art style may remind you of retro cartoons, but don’t be fooled—it’s a bold artistic choice that makes the story’s emotional punches hit even harder.

The show’s protagonist, Kaiba, wakes up in a body with no memories of who he is or how he got there. His journey to uncover the truth is filled with heart-wrenching encounters and morally complex dilemmas. Each episode peels back another layer of this bizarre universe, leaving viewers with the lingering question: “What truly makes us who we are—our memories, our body, or something deeper?”

While Kaiba may not have the mainstream appeal of other sci-fi giants, its animation and storytelling are nothing short of revolutionary. Despite a modest rating of 8.1 on MyAnimeList, it’s a series that deserves far more attention for its emotional depth and stunning world-building.

2. Planetes (Genre: Sci-Fi, Drama, Romance)

Space—the final frontier, but also, apparently, a dumping ground. In Planetes, humanity’s conquest of space has led to an unexpected problem: space debris. Tiny fragments of old satellites and garbage orbit the Earth, threatening the lives of astronauts and the future of space exploration. And that’s where our story begins.

Enter the members of the Debris Section, a team of underappreciated and overworked “space janitors” tasked with cleaning up the mess. While the premise might seem mundane, Planetes takes an ordinary concept and transforms it into an extraordinary exploration of human ambition, relationships, and the cost of chasing our dreams.

The show’s strength lies in its characters, particularly Hachimaki, who dreams of owning his own spaceship, and Ai Tanabe, a newcomer who brings a fresh perspective to the team. Their dynamic evolves over 26 beautifully crafted episodes, combining thought-provoking philosophical discussions with heartfelt moments.

With its realistic portrayal of space travel, grounded science, and emotional storytelling, Planetes is a gem for fans of hard sci-fi. It holds an impressive rating of 8.3 on MyAnimeList, yet it remains criminally underrated in mainstream anime discussions

3. Monster (Genre: Psychological, Thriller, Mystery)

If morality were a coin, which side would you fall on? Monster forces its viewers to confront this question in one of the most gripping psychological thrillers ever created.

The story follows Dr. Kenzo Tenma, a brilliant surgeon who makes a life-altering decision: he chooses to save the life of a young boy over a prominent politician. What seems like a noble act spirals into a nightmare when the boy, Johan Liebert, grows up to become one of the most terrifying villains in anime history.

What makes Monster a masterpiece is its slow-burn storytelling and complex characters. Johan isn’t just a villain; he’s a symbol of humanity’s darkest potential. And Dr. Tenma’s relentless pursuit of justice makes you question what it means to be good in a world filled with moral ambiguity.

With a staggering rating of 8.8, Monster is a critically acclaimed series often praised for its realistic animation, intricate plot, and psychological depth. However, its slow pacing and older art style have kept it from gaining the recognition it truly deserves among newer anime fans.

4. Ergo Proxy (Genre: Cyberpunk, Mystery, Psychological)

If Blade Runner had an anime cousin, it would be Ergo Proxy. This cyberpunk masterpiece is set in a dystopian future where humanity lives in domed cities to escape a ravaged Earth. The show dives into heavy themes like consciousness, identity, and the human condition, all while unraveling a gripping mystery.

The story centers on Re-L Mayer, an inspector investigating a string of murders linked to androids infected with the “Cogito Virus.” Alongside Vincent Law, a man searching for the truth about himself, Re-L uncovers secrets that will challenge her understanding of reality itself.

What sets Ergo Proxy apart is its philosophical depth. It doesn’t hand you answers on a silver platter; instead, it invites you to think, analyze, and interpret. The show’s dark, moody atmosphere and stunning animation further elevate its narrative.

Despite its brilliance, Ergo Proxy remains a niche title with a rating of 7.9, partly because of its abstract storytelling style. But for those willing to dive in, it’s an unforgettable experience.

5. The Twelve Kingdoms (Genre: Fantasy, Adventure, Drama)

The Twelve Kingdoms is the kind of fantasy anime that doesn’t just whisk you away to another world—it builds an entire universe with its own rules, history, and politics. Think Game of Thrones, but with a dash of mythical Eastern lore.

The story begins with Yoko Nakajima, an ordinary high school girl, who is suddenly transported to a parallel world. There, she learns she’s destined to become the ruler of one of the twelve kingdoms. But her journey is anything but smooth. Betrayals, battles, and self-discovery shape Yoko into one of the most compelling protagonists in anime.

What makes this series stand out is its mature storytelling. It doesn’t shy away from complex themes like leadership, morality, and personal growth. The world-building is meticulous, and every kingdom feels alive with its own culture and politics.

With a rating of 8.0, The Twelve Kingdoms is a hidden gem for fans of epic fantasy. Its rich narrative and character development are on par with some of the most celebrated works in the genre, yet it rarely gets the recognition it deserves.

6. Haibane Renmei (Genre: Slice of Life, Drama, Fantasy)

Gentle, poignant, and hauntingly beautiful—Haibane Renmei is not your typical anime. It’s a quiet masterpiece that explores themes of redemption, loss, and self-acceptance in a way that resonates deeply with viewers.

The story unfolds in the mysterious town of Glie, where beings called Haibane are born from cocoons, complete with halos and small, angelic wings. The protagonist, Rakka, is a newly “born” Haibane struggling to understand her identity and purpose. As she navigates her new life, she begins to uncover the secrets of her existence and the town’s unspoken rules.

What sets Haibane Renmei apart is its introspective tone. It doesn’t rely on flashy action or dramatic twists; instead, it immerses you in an emotional journey that feels deeply personal. The animation is subdued yet evocative, perfectly matching the somber and reflective narrative.

Despite its brilliance, Haibane Renmei holds a modest rating of 8.0. It’s a hidden gem for those who appreciate slow, meditative storytelling that lingers in your heart long after the credits roll.

7. Now and Then, Here and There (Genre: Drama, Sci-Fi, Adventure)

Brace yourself—this anime isn’t an easy watch, but it’s one you’ll never forget. Now and Then, Here and There is a harrowing tale that pulls no punches in its depiction of war, suffering, and the resilience of the human spirit.

The story begins with Shu, an optimistic and carefree boy, who is transported to a desolate world ruled by a tyrannical king. There, he meets Lala-Ru, a mysterious girl with the power to control water—a precious resource in this dystopian wasteland. Shu’s unwavering hope and determination are tested as he faces the horrors of war and the cruelty of humanity.

What makes Now and Then, Here and There so impactful is its unflinching portrayal of hardship. It doesn’t sugarcoat its message, making every moment feel raw and real. The animation, though simple, effectively captures the bleakness of its world, and the voice acting adds an extra layer of emotion.

With a rating of 7.6, this anime is often overlooked, but for those who can handle its heavy themes, it’s a deeply moving experience that stays with you.

8. Barakamon (Genre: Slice of Life, Comedy, Drama)

If you’ve ever felt stuck or in need of inspiration, Barakamon is the anime for you. This heartwarming slice-of-life series is as refreshing as a cool breeze on a summer day, filled with humor, charm, and life lessons.

The story follows Seishuu Handa, a talented but arrogant calligrapher, who is sent to a rural island after an outburst at an art exhibition. There, he meets the quirky villagers, including the mischievous Naru, a young girl who becomes his unlikely companion. Through their interactions, Handa learns to embrace imperfection and rediscover his passion for calligraphy.

Barakamon thrives on its lighthearted tone and relatable themes. The animation beautifully captures the idyllic island setting, while the humor and heartfelt moments make it impossible not to smile.

With a rating of 8.4, this anime has earned a loyal fanbase, but it still doesn’t get the widespread recognition it deserves. It’s a feel-good show that reminds us to slow down and appreciate the simple joys in life.

9. Denpa-teki na Kanojo (Genre: Mystery, Psychological, Thriller)

Short but impactful, Denpa-teki na Kanojo is a two-episode OVA that packs more intensity than many full-length series. It’s a dark and gripping psychological thriller that keeps you on the edge of your seat from start to finish.

The story revolves around Juuzawa Juu, a delinquent high school student, and Ame Ochibana, a strange girl who claims to be his “servant” from a past life. While Juu initially dismisses her, the two become embroiled in a series of violent and mysterious incidents, forcing him to confront the darker sides of humanity.

Denpa-teki na Kanojo stands out for its tight storytelling and atmospheric tension. The animation is sharp, and the characters are complex, making it an unforgettable experience despite its short runtime.

With a rating of 7.6, it remains one of the most underrated psychological thrillers in anime, deserving far more attention for its masterful execution and gripping narrative.

10. Space Brothers (Genre: Sci-Fi, Slice of Life, Comedy)

Dream big—this is the mantra of Space Brothers. This inspiring series tells the story of two brothers, Mutta and Hibito, who made a childhood promise to become astronauts. While Hibito fulfills that dream, Mutta struggles to find his way back on track.

The anime beautifully captures the ups and downs of chasing a dream. Mutta’s journey is filled with humor, failures, and small victories that make him incredibly relatable. The series also dives into the technical and emotional challenges of becoming an astronaut, giving viewers a realistic yet uplifting glimpse into the world of space exploration.

Space Brothers is a slow burn, but it rewards patience with its rich character development and heartwarming moments. Its rating of 8.5 reflects its quality, yet it often goes unnoticed in favor of more action-packed titles. For anyone looking for an inspiring and human story, this anime is a must-watch.

Conclusion

And there you have it—10 anime gems that deserve far more love and attention. From the surreal and introspective world of Kaiba to the heartwarming charm of Barakamon and the emotional depth of Monster, these shows prove that anime is a medium capable of telling stories that are profound, thrilling, and unforgettable.

So, which of these underrated masterpieces will you watch first? Let me know if you’d like more insights or recommendations!