Best Anime of 2017: What Were the Highlights?

The year 2017 was a standout for anime, showcasing a blend of creativity and storytelling that captivated audiences around the world. Several shows emerged as fan favorites, each contributing uniquely to the landscape of anime. In this article, we will highlight the best anime of 2017, exploring their themes, characters, and why they resonated with viewers.

Top Anime Series of 2017

1. My Hero Academia Season 2

"My Hero Academia" continued its success with an exciting second season in 2017. This series follows Izuku Midoriya, a boy born without superpowers in a world where they are the norm. The second season focuses on the U.A. Sports Festival, showcasing intense training and heroic growth.

Key Highlights of My Hero Academia Season 2

• Character Development: Viewers witnessed significant growth in characters like Bakugo and Todoroki.
• Action-Packed Battles: The tournament arcs provided high-stakes action sequences.
• Themes of Perseverance: The series emphasizes hard work and overcoming obstacles.

2. Attack on Titan Season 2

Another major release in 2017 was the second season of "Attack on Titan," which picked up from the shocking events of its first season. As humanity continued to fight against the Titans, secrets about their origins began to unfold.

Key Features of Attack on Titan Season 2

• Intense Plot Twists: Each episode revealed more about the Titans’ true nature.
• World-Building: The lore expanded significantly, captivating fans of dark fantasy.
• Emotional Stakes: Character sacrifices added depth to the narrative.

3. Re:Creators

"Re:Creators" offers a unique twist by featuring characters from various fictional works coming to life. This series explores the relationship between creators and their creations while delving into existential questions.

What Makes Re:Creators Unique?

• Meta-Narrative: It blurs the lines between creator and creation.
• Diverse Characters: Each character comes from different genres, including fantasy and mecha.
• Thought-Provoking Themes: The series encourages viewers to consider the implications of storytelling.

Popular Genres in Anime of 2017

Shonen and Action

Shonen anime dominated the charts in 2017, appealing predominantly to younger audiences. Action-packed series like "My Hero Academia" and "Attack on Titan" exemplified this genre's popularity.

Characteristics of Shonen Anime

• Heroic Journeys: Protagonists face challenges that lead to personal growth.
• Friendship and Rivalry: These themes are often central to the story arcs.
• Dynamic Combat: High-energy battles are a staple of shonen series.

Isekai and Fantasy

The isekai genre saw significant growth in 2017, bringing new worlds and adventures to life. Series like "Re:Creators" and "No Game No Life: Zero" captivated fantasy lovers.

Features of Isekai Anime

• Transported to New Worlds: Protagonists often find themselves in different realities.
• Magical Elements: Magic and supernatural abilities are commonly featured.
• Exploration of Identity: Characters often undergo significant transformations.

Conclusion: Why 2017 Remains Memorable in Anime History

The best anime of 2017 combined innovative storytelling with captivating visuals, establishing a lasting impact on fans and the industry. With the rise of both classic series continuations and fresh narratives, it was a year filled with excitement and diversity. The rich variety of genres ensured there was something for every anime enthusiast. Whether you were drawn to the thrilling action of shonen or the imaginative realms of fantasy, 2017 offered unforgettable experiences worth revisiting.