Best Anime Of 2014: What Were The Highlights?

In the vibrant world of anime, 2014 stands out as a remarkable year, offering a diverse range of series that captured the hearts of many fans. With genres spanning action, romance, fantasy, and adventure, the best anime for 2014 showcased captivating storylines and memorable characters. This article explores some of the most notable series from that year, highlighting their key features and why they became favorites among viewers.

Top Picks for Best Anime of 2014

1. Attack on Titan (Shingeki no Kyojin)

Attack on Titan revolutionized the anime landscape with its gripping narrative and stunning animation. The story follows Eren Yeager and his friends as they fight against gigantic beings known as Titans that threaten humanity’s existence. Released in 2013, the series continued to gain momentum into 2014, making it one of the best anime of the year. It features intense action sequences, deep exploration of themes such as freedom and sacrifice, and complex character development.

Key Features:

• Genre: Action, Fantasy, Dark Fantasy
• Studio: Wit Studio
• Episodes: 25 (Season 1)

2. Sword Art Online II

Sword Art Online II continued the story of Kirito, who dives back into virtual reality games after his harrowing experience in the original series. This sequel explores new gaming environments and introduces fresh characters while delving into darker themes. Its combination of action and emotional depth contributes significantly to its status as one of the best anime for 2014.

Key Features:

• Genre: Action, Adventure, Fantasy
• Studio: A-1 Pictures
• Episodes: 24

3. Noragami

Noragami tells the story of Yato, a minor deity who dreams of building his own shrine. The series blends supernatural elements with comedy and action, making it appealing to a broad audience. The character dynamics and the balance between light-hearted moments and serious themes resonate well with viewers, securing its place among the best anime of 2014.

Key Features:

• Genre: Action, Supernatural, Fantasy
• Studio: Bones
• Episodes: 12

Additional Noteworthy Mentions

4. My Love Story!! (Ore Monogatari!!)

This romantic comedy offers a refreshing take on high school romance through the story of Takeo Goda, an unusually large and strong boy, navigating his feelings for Rinko Yamato. The series is praised for its heartwarming moments and unique character dynamics, making it a beloved addition to the best anime for 2014 lineup.

Key Features:

• Genre: Romance, Comedy, Slice of Life
• Studio: Madhouse
• Episodes: 24

5. Parasyte: The Maxim (Kiseijuu: Sei no Kakuritsu)

Parasyte: The Maxim presents a thrilling storyline where parasitic aliens invade Earth and take over human bodies. The protagonist, Shinichi Izumi, fights for control over his body after being partially possessed. This series is renowned for its thought-provoking themes surrounding humanity and survival, confirming its reputation among the best anime of 2014.

Key Features:

• Genre: Horror, Sci-Fi, Thriller
• Studio: Madhouse
• Episodes: 24

Conclusion: Why 2014 Was a Landmark Year

The best anime for 2014 reflects a year of innovation and creativity within the industry. With a variety of genres and styles, these series catered to diverse fan preferences while pushing the boundaries of storytelling and animation. Whether you're revisiting these classics or discovering them for the first time, the legacy of 2014's anime remains significant in the evolving landscape of this popular medium.