Anime Of The Year: What Makes It Stand Out?

As the anime industry continues to evolve, each year brings a fresh wave of captivating stories and stunning animation. Identifying the standout series that captures the hearts of audiences is crucial. In 2023, discussions surrounding what was anime of the year revolved around several exceptional contenders. In this article, we will explore the top contenders for 2023's anime of the year, analyzing what made them remarkable.

What Criteria Determine Anime of the Year?

To identify what was anime of the year, it is essential to establish the criteria that define excellence in anime. The main factors include:

1. Storytelling

The narrative quality plays a pivotal role in distinguishing anime. A compelling plot with well-developed characters often resonates more significantly with viewers, leading to critical acclaim.

2. Animation Quality

Visual appeal is another critical aspect. High-quality animation not only enhances the viewing experience but also showcases the dedication and skill of the animators involved in production.

3. Character Development

Depth and growth of characters contribute significantly to a series' impact. Viewers appreciate when characters face challenges and evolve throughout the story.

4. Audience Reception

The popularity of a series among fans, as well as its ratings and reviews, serves as a barometer for determining what was anime of the year.

Top Contenders for Anime of the Year 2023

Several anime series stood out in 2023, making a strong case for being recognized as anime of the year. Here are the top contenders:

1. "Attack on Titan: The Final Season"

“Attack on Titan” has consistently delivered a thrilling experience. The final season wrapped up numerous complex storylines, leaving fans eager for closure. Its combination of intense action, emotional depth, and stunning animation solidified its status as a frontrunner for anime of the year.

Highlights of "Attack on Titan"

• Rich storytelling with intricate lore.
• Unparalleled animation quality from MAPPA.
• Complex character arcs culminating in satisfying conclusions.

2. "Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba – Swordsmith Village Arc"

Demon Slayer continues to captivate audiences with its breathtaking visuals and gripping storylines. The “Swordsmith Village Arc” showcases exhilarating battles and deepens the emotional stakes for the characters, making it one of the most beloved series of 2023.

Key Features of "Demon Slayer"

• A stunning blend of traditional and modern animation techniques.
• Engaging character development for Tanjiro and others.
• A powerful soundtrack enhancing emotional moments.

3. "Jujutsu Kaisen Season 2"

“Jujutsu Kaisen” has been praised for its unique blend of horror and comedy, alongside well-choreographed fight scenes. Season 2 escalated the intensity with new characters and deeper story arcs, establishing it as a serious contender for anime of the year.

Reasons for Popularity

• Dynamic fight sequences that captivate viewers.
• Intriguing character relationships and backstories.
• Critical acclaim for character designs and animation quality.

How the Winner Will Be Decided

The winner of the anime of the year will ultimately depend on various vote-based awards, fan polls, and critical reviews. Here’s how the selection process typically works:

1. Fan Voting

Many platforms allow fans to vote for their favorite series. Each vote contributes to identifying what was anime of the year based on popularity.

2. Critics’ Reviews

Professional critics will publish reviews and rankings that evaluate both the artistic and narrative qualities of each contender. These insights often influence fan opinions and voting patterns.

3. Industry Awards

Established anime awards ceremonies like the Tokyo Anime Award Festival or Crunchyroll Anime Awards will announce nominees and winners based on comprehensive evaluations of animated works.

Conclusion: Anticipating the Results

While many anime have made significant impacts in 2023, determining what was anime of the year will depend on both audience engagement and critical success. Each of the highlighted contenders offers something unique, ensuring that the competition remains fierce. As the year comes to a close, fans can look forward to seeing which series will take the coveted title and why it resonated so profoundly with viewers worldwide.