The Best Anime of 2016: What Were The Highlights?

In the realm of anime, 2016 was a significant year that introduced audiences to a plethora of remarkable series and films. From intense action to heartfelt drama, the variety was expansive. This article explores the best anime from 2016, highlighting standout titles and their unique contributions to the medium.

Top Anime Series of 2016

When discussing the best anime of 2016, several series captured the hearts of fans worldwide. Below are the most notable ones that defined the anime landscape that year.

1. Re:Zero - Starting Life in Another World

Re:Zero became a landmark title in the isekai genre. The story follows Subaru Natsuki, who finds himself in a fantasy world where he possesses a unique ability: whenever he dies, he can return to a specific point in time. This narrative device leads to intense character development and emotional storytelling.

Key Themes

• Time manipulation
• Psychological struggles
• Character relationships

2. My Hero Academia

My Hero Academia took the superhero genre to new heights in anime. This series follows Izuku Midoriya, a boy born without superpowers in a world filled with heroes. His journey to becoming a hero despite his challenges resonated with viewers. The series was lauded for its character arcs and action sequences.

Notable Features

• Diverse cast of characters
• Intriguing backstories
• Strong moral messages

3. Yuri on Ice

Yuri on Ice broke boundaries in sports anime by focusing on figure skating and LGBTQ+ themes. The story centered around Japanese figure skater Yuri Katsuki and his relationship with his coach, Viktor Nikiforov. The series was praised for its animation quality, compelling storytelling, and character depth.

Core Elements

• Realistic portrayal of competition
• Emotional depth
• Relationship dynamics

Popular Anime Films in 2016

Apart from television series, 2016 also delivered outstanding films that left a lasting impact on audiences. Here are some of the best anime films released that year:

1. Your Name (Kimi no Na wa)

Your Name became a cultural phenomenon upon its release. The film tells the story of two teenagers, Taki and Mitsuha, who mysteriously begin to swap bodies. Their journey to understand this phenomenon, paired with breathtaking animation and a captivating soundtrack, made it one of the highest-grossing anime films of all time.

Significant Aspects

• Beautiful animation
• Engaging plot twists
• Emotional score

2. A Silent Voice (Koe no Katachi)

A Silent Voice addressed important social issues such as bullying and disability through its profound narrative. The story revolves around Shoya Ishida, who seeks redemption after bullying a deaf girl during elementary school. This film received critical acclaim for its sensitive handling of complex themes and stunning visual storytelling.

Highlights

• Deep character studies
• Impactful themes
• Stunning artwork

Final Thoughts on 2016 Anime

The anime industry flourished in 2016, producing works that continue to resonate with audiences today. Whether through gripping narratives or striking visuals, the best anime of 2016 showcased the medium's versatility and creativity. Titles like Re:Zero, My Hero Academia, and Your Name not only entertained but also provoked thought and discussion among fans, ensuring their places in anime history.

This reflection on 2016 anime emphasizes the power of storytelling and character exploration that the industry promises to deliver in the years to come. With each new season, viewers anticipate the next batch of captivating series and films, hoping to discover the next masterpiece that will stand the test of time.