In the current anime landscape, “fan service” is a common element that appears in many shows, regardless of its quantity. While it may not always detract from the overall quality, not every viewer appreciates the “oppai + pantsu” moments that are often put front and center. Below is a list of 10 titles that are part of a broader selection of 20 excellent anime series that do not rely on fan service to maintain their appeal:
Barakamon
Genre: Comedy, Slice of Life
Handa Seishū is a calligrapher who is struggling with his self-esteem after being criticized by a long-time expert. Seeking inspiration and a way to rediscover himself, he moves to Goto Island to escape the pressures of Tokyo life. There, surrounded by quirky locals, Seishū embarks on a journey of self-discovery.
Pandora Hearts
Genre: Adventure, Fantasy, Shounen, Supernatural
Oz Vessalius is a privileged boy who, on his 15th birthday, is thrown into a mysterious world known as the “Abyss.” There, he meets Alice, a girl with a mysterious past, and together, they uncover the secrets behind their fates and the enigmatic organization known as “Pandora.”
Chihayafuru
Genre: Drama, Josei, Sports
Chihaya is a tomboyish girl with a passion for the traditional Japanese card game “karuta.” After meeting her inspiring classmate Wataya Arata, she strives to become the best karuta player in Japan while navigating her friendships and personal growth.
When They Cry (Higurashi no Naku Koro ni)
Genre: Horror, Mystery, Supernatural, Thriller
After moving to the quiet village of Hinamizawa, Keiichi Maebara finds comfort in his new home until rumors of mysterious murders surface. As paranoia grips the community, Keiichi must uncover the truth behind the village’s dark history.
Zipang
Genre: Action, Historical, Military, Sci-Fi, Seinen
The Mirai, a modern Japanese Aegis destroyer, is mysteriously transported back to World War II. The crew must navigate the complexities of war and their advanced technology while trying to avoid altering the course of history.
Death Parade
Genre: Game, Mystery, Psychological
After death, people find themselves in a mysterious bar run by Decim, who forces them to play games that reveal their true nature. The outcome decides whether they go to heaven or hell, challenging their morals and beliefs.
Ergo Proxy
Genre: Cyberpunk, Mystery, Philosophy, Sci-Fi
In a post-apocalyptic world, humans coexist with sentient robots known as AutoReivs. When a virus grants some of these robots consciousness, chaos ensues, leading to an exploration of identity and humanity.
Baccano!
Genre: Action, Seinen, Supernatural
Set in the 1930s, “Baccano!” intertwines the stories of several characters aboard the train Flying Pussyfoot, where a supernatural event sparks a series of violent encounters and thrilling escapades across America.
Trigun
Genre: Action, Comedy, Sci-Fi
Set on a desolate future planet, “Trigun” follows the legendary gunslinger Vash the Stampede, whose reputation precedes him. Despite his notorious past, Vash seeks peace and redemption while being pursued by bounty hunters.
Psycho-Pass
Genre: Action, Police, Sci-Fi, Seinen
In a dystopian future, society uses a system to gauge a person’s mental state and potential for crime. The series follows Inspector Kougami Shinya as he investigates crimes in a world where personal freedoms are sacrificed for safety.
Source: Animelap
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