The fantastical realms of anime often diverge dramatically from our reality, presenting unique rules and customs. Each universe can explore alternate timelines, from reimagined royal families in Europe to alien landscapes where gravity behaves unpredictably, creating captivating settings for storytelling.
Isekai anime exemplifies this genre by thrusting main characters into unfamiliar and often daunting worlds, allowing viewers to experience these extraordinary environments through the protagonist’s perspective. This classic “fish-out-of-water”narrative format has numerous iterations, making it easy for even the most refined works to go unnoticed. While mainstream hits receive their due attention, die-hard fans of the genre should venture into isekai’s lesser-known gems.
As of December 24, 2024, by Mark Sammut: The Fall 2024 anime season has concluded, revealing that none of its isekai entries truly stand out as underrated. Nonetheless, titles such as I’ll Become a Villainess Who Goes Down in History and Demon Lord 2099 emerged as enjoyable newcomers, while As a Reincarnated Aristocrat, I’ll Use My Appraisal Skill to Rise in the World demonstrated a strong second cour. Conversely, heavyweights like Re:ZERO and Arifureta hardly fit the “underrated”label.
With a scarcity of exceptional picks from Fall 2024, an earlier isekai title has been included. This parody may not appeal to everyone.
The term “underrated”can be subjective; here, it describes series that lack sufficient appreciation, either in terms of viewership or positive reception. For our analysis, we will reference MyAnimeList scores and user counts. To qualify as underrated, an anime must have fewer than 65,000 users or a score below 7.5/10; ideally, it meets both criteria.
14 My Instant Death Ability is So Overpowered, No One in This Other World Stands a Chance Against Me!
A Humor Spectrum: Hilarious or Boring?
Breaking the mold, My Instant Death Ability is So Overpowered, No One in This Other World Stands a Chance Against Me! serves as a full-fledged isekai parody that humorously critiques the genre’s fixation on overpowered characters. This anime is characterized by its absurdity and repetitive humor, often devoid of true tension and presenting rather bland protagonists. The story follows Yogiri and his classmate, Tomochika, who find themselves in a fantasy realm where they initially appear powerless. However, unbeknownst to them, Yogiri harbors a lethal Lovecraftian power that enables him to eliminate anyone with merely a thought.
My Instant Death Ability sparked polarized opinions among audiences in 2024. Most of its humor centers around the archetype of a character arriving only to be swiftly dispatched by Yogiri. The comedy, heavily dependent on personal taste, ensures mixed reactions, suggesting that this anime is worth exploring to see where one falls on the humor scale.
13 No Longer Allowed in Another World
A Series with Peak and Valley Moments
Summer 2024 proved to be rather disappointing for isekai enthusiasts. Aside from That Time I Got Reincarnated As A Slime, which was a holdover from Spring 2024, the new offers fell flat. Series like Suicide Squad Isekai and Dahlia in Bloom were merely passable, while Failure Frame relied heavily on a few key moments to maintain curiosity, along with a somewhat cringeworthy lead. Titles such as A Journey Through Another World: Raising Kids While Adventuring and The Strongest Magician in the Demon Lord’s Army Was a Human were forgettable at best, symbolizing the season’s mediocrity.
Among the new entries, No Longer Allowed in Another World stands out as a bright spot, albeit not a true standout. The series begins as a sharp parody, featuring a protagonist inspired by the literary figure Osamu Dazai. It engages with tropes like “truck-kun”and the concept of overpowered heroes with wit and humor that resonates with its darkly comedic lead and affable supporting cast.
Although the pace slows midway through, the anime recaptures its momentum in the concluding episodes, particularly through more intimate narratives involving other summoned heroes.
12 The Weakest Tamer Began a Journey to Pick Up Trash
A Slow Begin Leading to a Heartwarming Tale
While the label of “underrated”may not perfectly fit The Weakest Tamer Began a Journey to Pick Up Trash, this anime is generally well-received yet spent much of Winter 2024 on the outskirts of mainstream discourse. By the end of March 2024, however, its narrative rhythm revealed memorable moments that distinguished it within the season’s offerings. Most importantly, The Weakest Tamer presents a refreshingly unique perspective, making it an ideal choice for viewers tired of typical storytelling tropes.
Set in a world where individuals are valued based on their skill levels, represented through “stars,”Ivy’s absence of stars renders her insignificant. Facing a grim fate, she flees her village and learns to leverage her seemingly inadequate tamer skills for survival in the wild. While the early episodes delve into intense moments, the anime transitions into a soothing slice-of-life format that highlights Ivy’s warmth and naive charm. The high-quality animation by Studio Massket further amplifies its appeal.
11 It is a miracle
Thrilling Action Once the Plot Takes Shape
Ishura presents a fantasy world where wars hinge on the prowess of a few, rather than vast armies. As tensions escalate, two nations amass a group of gifted individuals with varying allegiances.
The series employs an unconventional narrative structure, kicking off with five “first”episodes that introduce its entire ensemble of characters. While this approach initially muddles the storyline and may disorient viewers, the plot’s threads finally intertwine around episode 6 in anticipation of conflict, ushering in a climax filled with exhilarating confrontations among formidable characters.
This anime’s unique storytelling may dissuade some viewers who prefer a more streamlined narrative, but once the action ramps up, it delivers satisfying battles, rich with over-the-top abilities and character clashes.
10 Now And Then, Here And There
A Cult Classic Addressing Profound Themes
The act of helping others carries significant weight, and altruism serves as a compelling trait. Shuu Matsutani’s impulsive act to rescue a girl from armed captors changes his life drastically.
This dynamic leads him to a harsh desert world, where he is pursued by soldiers and accused of theft regarding a magical pendant vital for water creation. Despite its somewhat outdated animation, Now and Then, Here and There offers a rich narrative that dives into dark themes, rewarding viewers willing to confront its grimmer elements.
9 Kakuriyo: Bed & Breakfast For Spirits
A Gentle and Heartwarming Journey
In Kakuriyo: Bed & Breakfast for Spirits, the ability to perceive spirits can be both a blessing and a curse. For college student Aoi, her encounter begins when she feeds a spirit at a shrine, only to face an unexpected abduction by Odanna, an ogre who takes her to the Hidden Realm of spirits.
Aoi quickly learns of her grandfather’s debt to Odanna, and despite the ogre’s intention to claim Aoi’s hand in marriage, she manages to persuade him to let her work at his inn. Although it lacks the depth of more psychologically intense anime, Kakuriyo stands out as a delightful and soothing addition to the isekai genre.
8 El Hazard: The Magnificent World
A Nostalgic Classic with Timeless Appeal
El Hazard, an OVA series that spawned multiple seasons, may not consistently achieve greatness, yet it remains an entertaining watch. The story revolves around Makoto and Jinnai—two students whose rivalry becomes a catalyst for their transportation into a magical world.
Offering a mix of comedic escapades, the series embodies the classic 1990s anime style. Although its charm may not resonate with everyone, viewers who appreciate the nostalgia and humor in El Hazard will find plenty to enjoy.
7 Brave Story
A Unique Entry in the Isekai Film Genre
Brave Story, a mid-2000s film by Gonzo, encapsulates the essence of isekai adventures as it follows a young boy’s journey to the mystical realm of Vision to change his family’s unfortunate fate.
While the film navigates the challenges of adapting a lengthy narrative into a concise structure, it successfully portrays a rich character arc throughout its runtime. The animation may exhibit signs of age, but a strong story ensures that Brave Story remains a noteworthy experience.
6 High School Prodigies Have It Easy Even In Another World
High Production Values Enhance a Mixed Narrative
The plot follows seven exceptionally talented high school students—a magician, a multimillionaire, an inventor, a swordswoman, a Prime Minister, a doctor, and a former ninja—who survive a plane crash, finding themselves in a medieval fantasy realm.
High School Prodigies Have It Easy Even in Another World showcases a unique premise bolstered by outstanding animation, music, and writing. The series addresses how these prodigies navigate their new world with their earthly skills, exploring whether their expertise translates effectively in fantasy.
5 The Twelve Kingdoms
A Must-See Classic for Isekai Fans
For those who cherish in-depth world-building, The Twelve Kingdoms emerges as a standout anime. It intricately portrays twelve kingdoms, each reflecting its own unique culture and governance, offering viewers an immersive experience.
This series excels in character development, tackling profound themes and complex relationships without shying away from challenging questions. Though its animation may show some wear, the engaging story and well-defined characters solidify its status as a classic.
4 Outbreak Company
Celebrating Geek Culture with Humor
Outbreak Company combines elements of harem, comedy, and parody, following a protagonist determined to introduce otaku culture in a fantastical land devoid of such interests. The absurdity of this mission forms the show’s foundation, culminating in hilarious and relatable moments.
Shinichi, the main character, finds himself on a mission to share his fandom with a culture that lacks exposure to it, echoing the feelings of many otaku viewers. This relatable premise is a great strength of the series, showcasing that geek culture holds intrinsic value.
3 Didn’t I Say To Make My Abilities Average In The Next Life?!
Engaging Protagonist with a Unique Twist
Misato Kurihara yearns to live an ordinary life, free from the isolation of genius. When she reincarnates in a fantasy realm, her wish is hilariously upended when she’s endowed with powers that surpass expectations—the average of all world abilities, rendering her extraordinarily powerful.
Similar to established series like Sword Art Online, this anime blends humor with deeper moments, maintaining a self-aware tone. While it departs significantly from the original light novels, it still finds strength in its engaging female lead, numerous in-jokes, and a bright narrative spirit.
2 A Salad Bowl Of Eccentrics
Innovative Reverse Isekai with Unique Characters
Spring 2024 impressed fans with returning favorites like KonoSuba and Mushoku Tensei, yet it introduced another overlooked title—A Salad Bowl of Eccentrics. This series uniquely portrays powerful girls who transition to Earth, beginning with Sara, a princess escaping peril.
Upon falling onto private detective Sousuke amid a case, Sara faces challenges as she and her guard Livia navigate human society, producing noteworthy humor as Livia’s misadventures lead her to being revered by a cult. Although derivative at first, A Salad Bowl of Eccentrics quickly carves its unique identity, inviting viewers into a whimsical yet wholesome narrative.
1 KamiKatsu: Working For God In A Godless World
An Eccentric Comedy with Distinctive Humor
The landscape of isekai anime in 2023 was rich, spotlighting works like The Eminence in Shadow and Mushoku Tensei. Within this landscape, KamiKatsu rises as a unique experience with a challenging entry point. Its initial impression features unconventional CGI animations, which might alienate viewers unfamiliar with this aesthetic.
As the story unfolds, the distinct blend of absurdist humor becomes apparent, offering a comedic experience that grows more eccentric over time. KamiKatsu represents a niche preference; however, those who resonate with its style are likely to enjoy its wild ride.
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