Top Isekai Anime To Watch This Summer 2022
Hey anime fans, are you ready for another season packed with epic adventures, fantastical worlds, and, of course, a healthy dose of isekai? Summer 2022 was a goldmine for isekai anime, serving up a diverse range of shows that transported viewers to exciting new realms. From overpowered protagonists to heartwarming slice-of-life stories, this season had it all. So, grab your snacks, settle in, and let's dive into some of the best isekai anime of Summer 2022!
The Rising Popularity of Isekai Anime
First off, let's talk about why isekai anime is so popular, guys! For those who are new to the genre, isekai typically involves a character being transported to another world, often a fantasy realm. This could be through reincarnation, being summoned, or simply finding themselves in a new reality. The appeal is multifaceted. Audiences enjoy the wish-fulfillment aspect – imagining themselves in a world where they have unique abilities or the chance to live a completely different life. The element of escapism is also incredibly strong. Watching a character navigate a new world with its own rules, challenges, and cultures provides a fantastic way to break away from the mundane and experience something extraordinary. Moreover, isekai often explores themes of self-discovery, growth, and the importance of relationships, making them relatable and emotionally engaging, even with the fantastical settings. The variety within the genre is also a major draw. You've got your action-packed adventures, your comedic romps, your strategic power fantasies, and everything in between. This means there's an isekai anime out there for virtually every taste. Whether you're into epic battles, clever problem-solving, or just watching a character build a cozy life, isekai has something to offer. The genre's ability to constantly reinvent itself and explore new narrative possibilities ensures it remains fresh and exciting, keeping audiences hooked season after season. The blend of familiar tropes with unique world-building makes each series a potential hit, leading to a vibrant and ever-evolving landscape that continues to captivate viewers worldwide. It’s no wonder isekai anime has become a staple in the anime community.
Why Summer 2022 was a Great Season for Isekai
Summer 2022 was an especially great season for isekai anime, bringing a wave of diverse shows to the forefront. This season saw the return of some popular franchises as well as the debut of many new series, offering a wide array of themes and styles. The quality of animation and storytelling was particularly high, ensuring that there was something for everyone. This variety is what made Summer 2022 stand out – from action-packed adventures to lighthearted comedies, there was a show for every mood. The overall quality of production, combined with the innovative storytelling, truly set this season apart from others. Several shows managed to capture the hearts of the audience with compelling characters and intricate worlds. The summer of 2022 was the perfect time for both seasoned fans and newcomers to discover and enjoy the isekai genre. The selection was vast, with each series offering a unique approach to the beloved formula. The season also highlighted the growing global appeal of isekai anime, attracting international viewers with its universal themes and relatable characters. The summer of 2022 was a testament to the enduring popularity and evolution of isekai anime.
Top Isekai Anime of Summer 2022: Recommendations
Now, let's get into the main event: some of the top isekai anime that graced our screens during Summer 2022. I'll cover some popular picks as well as some hidden gems, so you'll have plenty of options for your watch list.
1. Overlord IV
The return of Overlord IV was one of the most anticipated events of the summer. The series continues its dark fantasy narrative, following the protagonist, Ainz Ooal Gown, as he navigates the complexities of ruling the Great Tomb of Nazarick and the surrounding world. The focus is still on world domination, with Ainz making strategic moves to further his goals, but the show is so much more than that. This season offers a deeper dive into the politics and societies of the new world. Viewers get to see Ainz interact with various factions, each with its unique ambitions and challenges, making for complex storytelling. The animation quality and the art are generally top-notch, offering beautiful visuals for its dark setting. The action sequences are well-choreographed, and the character designs are visually striking. This allows for immersive world-building and an intense viewing experience. Overlord IV is a must-watch for fans of dark fantasy and strategic storytelling, and it provides both action and intrigue. The anticipation was definitely worth it.
2. Isekai Meikyuu de Harem wo
This anime, known in English as Harem in the Labyrinth of Another World, is definitely an interesting one. The series features a protagonist who is transported to a fantasy world and granted the ability to create a harem. This anime focuses on the protagonist's adventures as he explores the new world. He quickly assembles a diverse group of companions. The show is known for its ecchi elements and its blend of action and comedy. It provides a unique take on the isekai formula. The protagonist uses his newfound powers to face challenges and build relationships. The animation quality is decent, and the character designs are visually appealing. The action sequences are well-animated, which provides a satisfying viewing experience. The anime is definitely not for everyone, due to its explicit content. But if you’re into it, it offers a fun and lighthearted escape, with a refreshing twist on the isekai genre, making it a guilty pleasure for some viewers.
3. Uncle from Another World
This anime brought a unique and comedic take on the isekai genre. The plot revolves around a man who wakes up from a coma after seventeen years and reveals that he has spent his time in another world. The show is filled with humor and nostalgia as his nephew tries to help him adjust to modern life. The humor comes from the clash between his uncle's old-fashioned ideas and the present-day technology. This allows for many comedic moments. The animation style is quite distinct. It incorporates elements of retro video game aesthetics, which is a nod to his uncle's time in the other world. The show is well-received for its creative storytelling. It also provides a heartwarming look at family relationships. The story is a refreshing change, offering a unique blend of comedy, adventure, and heartwarming moments. It explores the themes of family, nostalgia, and acceptance, which makes it engaging. It's a must-watch if you're looking for something humorous and heartwarming.
4. My Isekai Life: I Gained a Second Life and Became a Sage!
This isekai series follows a salaryman who finds himself in another world as a powerful sage. He uses his newfound abilities to battle monsters and explore the world. The show is known for its fast-paced action and the protagonist's growth as he gains experience and new powers. The animation is vibrant, and the character designs are appealing. The action sequences are well-executed. They bring a lot of energy to the show. It's a fun and exciting show. It offers a classic isekai adventure with plenty of action and fantasy. It's an excellent choice if you're looking for a show that is focused on adventure and the cultivation of abilities in a fantasy setting. The battles are entertaining. The overall narrative is well-paced, providing a good viewing experience.
5. Lycoris Recoil
While not a traditional isekai anime, Lycoris Recoil offers a unique blend of action, slice-of-life, and mystery, making it a noteworthy addition to the summer 2022 anime lineup. The series follows a group of highly trained agents, known as Lycoris, who work to maintain peace and order in Tokyo. They perform various missions, and the show blends high-octane action with lighthearted moments of everyday life. The animation is visually stunning, featuring dynamic action sequences and detailed character designs. The characters are well-developed. Viewers get to see them grow and bond. The series' unique setting and compelling plot make it a standout show. While not an isekai in the traditional sense, Lycoris Recoil offers an equally immersive experience. It's great if you are looking for a show with a well-developed story, with amazing animation and memorable characters.
Exploring More Isekai Anime from Summer 2022
Beyond these top picks, Summer 2022 also offered a wealth of other isekai anime to discover. Some other notable mentions include: "Made in Abyss: The Golden City of the Scorching Sun" (Season 2) which continues the dark adventure; "The Maid I Hired Recently Is Mysterious" which is a slice-of-life comedy with a focus on a mysterious maid; and "Black Summoner" an action-packed series where the main character is a powerful summoner. The beauty of the isekai genre is that there is always something new to experience, and the summer of 2022 was no exception. Whether you are into action, comedy, or fantasy, there was something for everyone to enjoy.
Hidden Gems and Underrated Isekai Anime
Sometimes, the best shows are the ones that fly under the radar. Some of the hidden gems from Summer 2022 include series with unique premises. These are also worth checking out: "Engage Kiss", which blends action, romance, and supernatural elements in a near-future setting; "Extreme Hearts," which is a musical and sports anime, featuring a group of girls who compete in the Hyper Sports. These underrated gems often provide a fresh perspective on the genre, showcasing the versatility and creativity of isekai anime. Exploring these hidden gems is a great way to find new favorites and broaden your anime horizons.
Conclusion: Summer 2022's Isekai Anime Legacy
Summer 2022 was a fantastic season for isekai anime, providing a wide range of shows that catered to all tastes. From the return of beloved series to the debut of new and innovative stories, there was no shortage of exciting adventures. The season highlighted the ongoing popularity of the genre. The quality of storytelling, animation, and character development was consistently high, making it a great time to be an isekai fan. Whether you are a longtime viewer or a newcomer, Summer 2022 offered a variety of shows for everyone to enjoy. So, go back and watch the isekai anime. You might discover some new favorites.
Where to Watch Isekai Anime
Now, for those of you eager to dive into these awesome shows, where can you watch them? Many popular streaming services have a great selection of anime. Some popular platforms include Crunchyroll, Funimation, and HIDIVE. These services often have a wide variety of isekai anime, including the series mentioned above. You can easily find both the new and older shows. Some of these platforms offer free trials. So, you can start watching your favorite isekai anime right away. Happy watching, anime fans!