The world of anime is full of epic sagas, some have ended and others still continuing. However, long-running series like One Piece and Naruto can be deterrents for newcomers and even seasoned fans pressed for time. Fortunately, the anime medium offers a wealth of exceptional shorter series that don’t sacrifice storytelling for briefness.
Whether a newcomer looking to dip their toes into the anime genre or a seasoned viewer seeking a quick viewing experience just like Fullmetal Alchemist, these short series will satisfy the craving. These 5 best short anime have only one season, which also proves that quality is not contingent on quantity.
5. Akame ga Kill (24 Episodes)
Though Akame ga Kill has an IMDb rating of 7.8, its narrative
has dark and gritty themes. The story follows Tatsumi, a young man who joins a group of assassins known as the Night Raid in order to take down the corrupt government. The series is set in a fantasy world where power and corruption run rampant.
The series turns out to be quite violent at times, it also explores themes of justice, loyalty, and the consequences of one’s actions.
Akame ga Kill is available to watch on Crunchyroll.
4. Death Parade ( 12 Episodes)
Death Parade has based its story on the concepts of life, death, and the nature of the human soul. It takes place in a mysterious bar called Quindecim. A place where recently deceased individuals are sent to participate in various games that determine the fate of their souls.
It allows viewers to question their own judgments about the preconceptions of the afterlife. It has a deep, introspective anime experience that doesn’t require a significant time investment.
Death Parade is available to watch on Crunchyroll.
3. Violet Evergarden (13 Episodes + OVA)
Violet Evergarden is placed third in this with an IMDb rating of 8.4. It’s a beautiful and emotional anime that explores the concept of language and communication. The series follows Violet, a former child soldier who is learning to adapt to civilian life. After the war, Violet is employed as an “Auto Memory Doll.”
Just like the Fullmetal Alchemist‘s brothers who journey to redeem themselves, Violet also walks a path which quite unknown to her.
Violet Evergarden is available to watch on Netflix.
2. Cowboy Bebop (26 Episodes)
Cowboy Bebop is a classic anime released in 1998. With an IMDb rating of 8.9, it is quite similar to Fullmetal Alchemist in terms of a sophisticated and stylish anime experience, as both series have somewhat Western influence in them the series. The anime blends elements of science fiction, film noir, and jazz to create a truly distinctive aesthetic.
It follows a group of bounty hunters who have their own backstories and personalities and are set in a futuristic world where humanity has colonized the solar system
Cowboy Bebop is available to watch on Netflix.
1. Erased (12 Episodes)
Even though Erased has an IMDb rating of 8.4, it tops the list as it provides a psychological thriller to viewers. It follows the story of Satoru Fujinuma, who has the ability to travel back in time to prevent tragic events. When a series of murders occurs, Satoru is sent back to his childhood in the 1980s to try and uncover the truth behind the crimes.
It carefully blends different aspects of mystery and drama to create a suspenseful narrative. The anime’s short runtime allows for a tightly-paced viewing experience same as Fullmetal Alchemist did for its audiences.
Erased is available to watch on Crunchyroll.
