Top Anime Every Gamer Should Watch This Year
Anime and gaming share a strong connection, with both offering immersive worlds, thrilling storylines, and complex characters. Many popular anime titles draw inspiration from video games, making them particularly appealing to gamers who enjoy rich narratives and dynamic action.
Series like Sword Art Online, No Game No Life, and Log Horizon have successfully blended gaming concepts into their plots, allowing viewers to experience adventures that feel similar to playing a story-driven game.
For those planning to watch these anime without interruptions, you can get Crunchyroll Premium cheaper, giving you access to a wide selection of shows with an improved viewing experience.
Why Anime and Gaming Make a Perfect Combo
Both anime and gaming thrive on storytelling, character progression, and world-building. Many anime incorporate game-like elements such as quests, levels, and skill systems, allowing viewers to enjoy a familiar sense of progression. This overlap creates a unique connection for gamers, as they can watch narratives unfold in a format that mirrors their favorite RPG or adventure games.
Below is a list of must-watch anime for gamers this year, featuring a mix of new releases and ongoing fan favorites:
| Anime Title | Why Gamers Will Love It |
|---|---|
| Solo Leveling | An action-packed series with breathtaking animation and thrilling boss battles, perfect for fans of progression-based RPGs. |
| Cyberpunk: Edgerunners | Set in the same universe as Cyberpunk 2077, this anime offers high-energy action, emotional storytelling, and a stunning cyberpunk aesthetic. |
| Kaiju No. 8 | A unique story about a man transforming into a kaiju, balancing emotional depth with high-stakes battles. |
| Demon Slayer | Renowned for its cinematic visuals and emotional storytelling, this anime delivers intense combat sequences akin to top-tier action games. |
| Sakamoto Days | A promising blend of action and humor based on a hit manga, offering an entertaining experience for fans of lighter yet thrilling narratives. |
| The Rising of the Shield Hero | Follows the journey of a gamer transported to a parallel world, combining RPG-style progression with character-driven storytelling. Season 4 is highly anticipated. |
Anime-Inspired Video Games
Many anime series have inspired video game adaptations, allowing fans to actively engage with their favorite characters and stories. Popular examples include games based on Demon Slayer, Naruto, One Piece, and Attack on Titan.
Where to Watch These Anime
Most of the titles listed above are available on popular streaming platforms, including Crunchyroll, Funimation, HIDIVE, and Netflix. Crunchyroll remains a top choice for anime enthusiasts, offering an extensive collection of shows, especially for those opting for their premium plans that provide ad-free and uninterrupted streaming. If you’re looking for more options, check out our guide on underrated anime streaming sites to discover hidden gems for watching your favorite shows.
