Overview of Kaiju in Anime
- Kaiju enthusiast can find a variety of characters in popular anime series, including titles such as Attack on Titan and Neon Genesis Evangelion.
- Modern shows like SSSS.Gridman and Godzilla Singular Point merge captivating storytelling with thrilling Kaiju elements.
- The return of the Gamera franchise through Gamera: Rebirth on Netflix has reinvigorated interest with nostalgic character battles.
Kaijus, the colossal monsters rooted in Japanese culture, have influenced media for over seventy years. Despite their integral role, these titanic creatures have often taken a back seat in the anime landscape compared to other established tropes, such as superheroes and mecha. Nonetheless, the legacy of iconic franchises such as Godzilla, Gamera, and Ultraman remains profound and influential within the anime industry.
For dedicated Kaiju fans and followers of the Tokusatsu genre, numerous contemporary anime series spotlight these formidable giants. Many of these shows boast thrilling narratives that pit humanity against enormous, city-destroying creatures. Here are several must-watch anime series highly recommended for fans of Kaiju and Godzilla.
1. Taste
A Unique Shōnen Series with Kaiju Inspirations
Adapted from the manga by Yukinobu Tatsu, Dandadan has quickly emerged as one of the standout anime of 2024. Heavily influenced by the Tokusatsu genre, the series features characters reminiscent of Ultraman, such as the Serpo Aliens, echoing the design of the Dada Aliens. One notable character is Nessie, who draws inspiration from Shin Godzilla, making memorable appearances.
Season 2 will unveil the much-anticipated Kaiju Arc, introducing Bamora, an alien girl equipped with a kaiju-like Exosuit capable of massive destruction. Tatsu’s admiration for Godzilla and Ultraman is palpable throughout the series.
2. Attack on Titan
Humanity’s Battle Against Deadly Giants
While Attack on Titan may not initially seem like a conventional Kaiju show, its narrative revolves around humanity’s struggle against formidable giants known as Titans. Created by Hajime Isayama, the series combines elements of horror and adventure, appealing to those who appreciate dark Kaiju narratives through its stunning fight scenes and aerial combat mechanics.
Although many Titans share human-like characteristics, the introduction of the nine Special Titans adds a layer of variety to the confrontations, evoking classic Kaiju battles like the notable clashes of the Attack Titan against the Female Titan.
3. Neon Genesis Evangelion
A Deep Psychological Drama Infused with Giant Monsters
At the heart of Neon Genesis Evangelion lies a formal nod to the Kaiju genre, with its creator, Hideaki Anno, weaving together psychological depth and colossal battles. Characters like Jet Alone are direct nods to previous Kaiju elements. The series has crossed paths with the Godzilla franchise, enhancing its cultural significance, as Anno continued to craft films focused on giant monster themes, such as Shin Godzilla.
4. SSSS.Gridman
A Contemporary Take on the Classic Tokusatsu Series
Released in 2018, SSSS.Gridman quickly garnered a strong following thanks to its engaging storyline, showcasing a boy who transforms into the heroic Gridman to combat invading Kaiju threatening his city. This series serves as a modern revision of Tsuburaya Productions’ classic, Gridman the Hyper Agent.
This series shines with its exhilarating Kaiju confrontations, thanks to Studio Trigger’s adept animation style. Building off its success, a sequel titled SSSS.Dynazenon premiered in 2021, maintaining the same high production quality.
5. Camera: Rebirth
A Much-Needed Animated Comeback for a Legendary Franchise
Fans of Kaiju cinema will recognize Gamera as the beloved giant turtle, a significant player alongside Godzilla in the Tokusatsu realm. After several popular films, the franchise had seen a long hiatus following Gamera the Brave in 2006.
In 2023, Gamera made a triumphant return with Gamera: Rebirth, a brand new, original CG anime series available globally on Netflix. This series revitalizes the franchise with its exhilarating battles, top-notch animation, and appearances from iconic foes like Gyaos, Guiron, and others.
6. Godzilla Singular Point
An Enjoyable Yet Complex Journey with the King of Monsters
The Godzilla franchise ventured into animation several times before finally releasing its inaugural series, Godzilla Singular Point, in 2021, following a brief foray into animated films in 2017. This series stands out for its mix of complex scientific dialogue and unique narrative elements, resulting in a multifaceted viewing experience.
Produced by Bones and Orange, the anime’s complexity does not overshadow its engaging characters or thrilling Kaiju confrontations. Fans of Godzilla will undoubtedly appreciate this devoted piece dedicated to the legendary creature.
7. Kaiju No. 8
A Dynamic Shōnen Series Featuring a Kaiju-Powered Protagonist
Kaiju No. 8, adapting Naoya Matsumoto’s acclaimed manga, surged to popularity in 2024. It presents a world where humans constantly combat lurking giant monsters. The story follows Kafka Hibino, an underwhelming individual who gains astonishing capabilities that allow him to transform into a hybrid Kaiju capable of dismantling enemies effortlessly.
This captivating shōnen series uniquely incorporates Kaiju elements, with its protagonist and monstrous foes featuring appealing designs that ensure captivating battles. The narrative entwines the thrill of action with a compelling backstory, captivating both viewers and readers alike.
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