Best Anime Of 2016: What Were The Highlights?

Explore the best anime of 2016, featuring iconic series like Re:Zero, My Hero Academia, and KonoSuba that captivated audiences worldwide.

Ani

July 9, 2025 12:00 AM

2016 was a monumental year for anime, featuring an impressive lineup of series that captivated audiences worldwide. This article explores the best anime of 2016, showcasing storytelling, animation quality, and character development. Whether you're an anime veteran or new to the genre, these titles defined 2016 and left a lasting impact.

Top Picks for Best Anime of 2016

1. Re:Zero - Starting Life in Another World

"Re:Zero" quickly became a fan favorite due to its unique premise and complex characters. The story follows Subaru Natsuki, who is transported to a fantasy world where he discovers he can return from death, giving him a second chance to alter events. The series explores themes of despair, hope, and perseverance.

Key Elements of "Re:Zero"

Genre: Fantasy, Thriller
Episodes: 25
Director: Masaharu Watanabe

2. My Hero Academia

"My Hero Academia" introduced viewers to a world where nearly every human possesses superpowers, known as "Quirks." The story centers on Izuku Midoriya, a Quirkless boy who dreams of becoming a hero. His journey of self-improvement and bravery resonates throughout the series.

Significant Themes in "My Hero Academia"

Heroism: The essence of what it means to be a hero is explored.
Friendship: Relationships play a critical role in character development.
Growth: Characters evolve significantly throughout the series.

3. Attack on Titan (Season 2)

The second season of "Attack on Titan" continued to build on its predecessor's groundbreaking popularity. This dark fantasy series showcases humanity's struggle against gigantic creatures known as Titans. Season 2 introduced new layers to the plot and expanded the lore surrounding Titans.

Noteworthy Features of "Attack on Titan"

Animation Quality: The visuals remained top-notch, enhancing the intensity of battles.
Character Depth: New characters were introduced, adding complexity to the story.
Plot Twists: The season is renowned for unexpected revelations.

4. KonoSuba: God's Blessing on This Wonderful World!

Highlights of "KonoSuba"

Genre: Comedy, Fantasy
Running Time: 10 episodes per season
Director: Takaomi Kanasugi

Anime Genre Diversity in 2016

The variety within the best anime of 2016 showcases the depth of storytelling across genres. Viewers could enjoy everything from action-packed thrillers to light-hearted comedies.

Action and Adventure

Series like "Berserk" and "Phantom Blood" kept action enthusiasts entertained with their gripping narratives and intense combat sequences. These shows highlighted the quest for revenge and legacy, bringing depth to violent plots.

Romance and Slice of Life

On the softer side, "Your Lie in April" continued to tug at heartstrings with its powerful narrative about love and music. This blend of romance and mind-bending drama resonated deeply with audiences.

Conclusion: Why 2016 Stands Out

In conclusion, 2016 marked an extraordinary year in the world of anime, producing several iconic series that continue to shape the industry today. Each title listed among the best anime of 2016 contributes uniquely to the medium, offering viewers an array of experiences ranging from hilarity to heartache. These shows have not only entertained but also set a benchmark for future anime productions.

Whether you're revisiting these classics or experiencing them for the first time, the best anime of 2016 undoubtedly holds a special place in the hearts of fans around the globe.

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