No 'Frieren' or 'The Apothecary Diaries': 5 Lesser-Known but Worth Watching Fantasy Anime
Instead of focusing on the big hits, we'll focus on five little-known titles that definitely deserve attention, too.
Even the most sophisticated fantasy anime viewer risks getting overwhelmed by endless recommendations of Frieren: Beyond Journey's End or The Apothecary Diaries.
While these are definitely exceptional projects, they often overshadow other gems of the genre.
1. 'Somali and the Forest Spirit', 2020
IMDb Score: 7.5/10
Humans have long been absent from this world – they either died out or fled to distant lands. Now, it is inhabited by magical creatures: spirits, demons, and golems.
One of these creatures has served as the forest's guardian for many years. One day, he discovers a human girl in his domain. A strange bond develops between them – the girl, Somali, calls the golem father, and he fears that after his death, no one will care for her.
Consequently, the golem and Somali embark on a journey in search of humans, where magical adventures and surprising encounters await them.
2. 'Little Witch Academia', 2017
IMDb Score: 7.8/10
Akko decides to become a sorceress and enrolls at Luna Nova Magical Academy. Since she hasn't been granted Chosen One status, all the witchcraft tasks prove extremely difficult for her.
Then, Akko discovers the staff of her idol, Shiny Chariot, which changes the situation. From then on, she faces monsters, dragons, and rival witches.
3. 'Made in Abyss', 2017-...
IMDb Score: 8.3/10
Humanity discovers a mysterious island with a huge pit at its center. Adventurers call this place the Abyss, build a city above it, and set out to search for treasures of all kinds.
Twelve-year-old orphan Riko, whose parents were also adventurers, wants to join the search for relics, too. She accidentally falls into the Abyss, where she encounters a robot boy, a rabbit girl, and ancient horrors.
4. 'The Slayers', 1995-2009
IMDb Score: 7.5/10
Unlike other sorceresses who dedicate their lives to the eternal search for ancient knowledge, Lina Inverse is interested only in enriching herself – she attacks bandits and steals their loot.
One day, she comes into possession of a mysterious artifact that triggers a hunt for her. The warrior Gourry Gabriev volunteers to help her.
Together, they explore a postmodern fantasy world filled with pop culture references, battle dragons, and engage in war with demons.
5. 'Raven on the Inner Palace', 2022
IMDb Score: 7.3/10
Xia Gaojun, the rightful heir to the imperial throne, organizes a rebellion to reclaim power. Now, he faces a multitude of palace secrets and intrigues, one of which involves a mysterious concubine in the imperial harem.
Her existence is shrouded in mystery, but details suggest she is connected to an ancient pagan deity. With her help, Xia Gaojun uncovers palace secrets and discovers new information about his ancestors and himself.
