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Plenty of shows from over a decade past are already beginning to join the roster of classics; think Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood, Death Note, and Hunter x Hunter. While the nostalgia of old series certainly can help boost their reputation, so many newer series have impressed anime fans enough to be called modern classics in the making. Shows from the past few years that have brought new ideas and life to anime, and ushered in great, new stories to rewatch and discuss for years to come. This list will discuss seven newer anime series that will almost certainly be included among the greats in the future.
7) Hell’s Paradise: Jigokuraku
Hell’s Paradise: Jigokuraku is a dark fantasy anime series that takes place in an inspired historical setting. Released in 2023, Hell’s Paradise currently has a single season, with a second season set to premiere in 2026. The show is considered part of Shonen Jump’s “Dark Trio”, which consists of gritty shonen anime series such as Jujutsu Kaisen and Chainsaw Man. Despite this, Hell’s Paradise didn’t get as much traction as other contemporary titles in the genre until recent years; it’s a shame, because the show offers a clean, compact plot with gorgeous art and strong character motivation that sets it leagues above its counterparts. Themes explored in the series include redemption, the moral nature of immortality, good versus evil, and self-discovery.
In Hell’s Paradise, we meet Gabimaru the Hollow, an infamous ninja currently slated for execution to pay for his many crimes and wrongdoings. Instead of being killed, Gabimaru is offered an opportunity that may allow him to receive a pardon and return home to his wife. He must travel to the legendary island of Shinsenkyō, a dangerous place that is said to hide the secret to the Elixir of Life. Gabimaru must face the unknown perils of the island alongside his assigned executioner, Sagiri, and uncover the secrets of Shinsenkyō, which lead back to the shogunate itself.
6) Dr. Stone
Dr. Stone is an awesome anime series that blends science fiction and fantasy genres. The show was released in 2019 and has a total of four seasons, with the final season concluding in 2026. Dr. Stone has been praised for its unique concept, developed world-building, and use of science within its power-scaling system. The show addresses complex topics such as the power of information, scientific discovery, maintaining hope, and rebuilding. Additionally, the anime has a vibrancy to its art and animation style that brings to life the characters and setting in a way that immerses the audience completely.
The plot of Dr. Stone is set 3700 years in the future, after a mysterious flash of light is followed by a global disaster that turns the entire human population into stone statues. Senku Ishigami, a scientific prodigy, remains awake in his confined, petrified state throughout the years until he’s able to wake himself from his forced slumber. Senku embarks on a journey to awaken other humans and cure the petrification that has decimated Earth. Along the way, Senku attempts to uncover the secret behind the flash of light that heralded the end of the world, relying on his best friend, Taiju, and his own knowledge.
5) Violet Evergarden
Violet Evergarden had the immediate feel of an anime classic when it was released, garnering widespread attention and a huge fan base. The show first aired back in 2018 with a singular season, containing only 13 episodes; additionally, the series was followed by two movies, Violet Evergarden: The Movie and Eternity and the Automemory Doll. It was praised for its fluid animation, breathtaking art, and intricate character development that occurred throughout its short run-time. Themes explored in the series include self-discovery, forgiveness, empathy, and the effects of trauma.
The story of Violet Evergarden revolves around the reflection and growth of its titular character, Violet. Following a four-year war, Violet returns from battle with injuries that require her to wear prosthetic limbs to recover and resume her normal life. She begins work as an Auto Memory Doll, a job that allows Violet to write letters for clients who cannot concisely express their emotions or thoughts. Traveling the country, Violet meets people from all walks of life as she performs her new job, learning to heal and move on from her past as a soldier.
4) Vinland Saga
Vinland Saga is an anime series that feels like it could be substituted as a historical epic. The show was released in 2019 and had a single season containing 24 episodes, with a second season that was released in 2023 with another 24 episodes. It’s been acknowledged for complex character dynamics, compelling character growth, and intense battle sequences that carry weight. Vinland Saga explores themes such as redemption, the search for peace, self-discovery, and the consequences of pursuing revenge.
The plot of Vinland Saga centers around Thorfinn, a young Viking whose father is brutally murdered by the infamous mercenary, Askeladd. Vowing revenge on his father’s killer, Thorfinn trains and grows until he’s old enough to join Askeladd’s band of mercenaries. In his attempt at getting closer to his target, Thorfinn experiences the horrors of war and the Viking lifestyle, prompting him to question whether his quest for vengeance is what he truly wants. Instead, Thorfinn begins to pursue the far-off dream of Vinland, a land of promised peace where his people can thrive in safety.
