In a relatively short span of time, Studio MAPPA has carved a niche for itself in the anime industry. With its inception in 2011, it has swiftly climbed the ladder of success, delivering a plethora of anime that have not only become fan favorites but have also showcased a unique blend of narrative brilliance and visual splendor. Let’s delve into the top 10 anime from Studio MAPPA that have left an indelible mark on the audience, based on viewer ratings.
10. Dorohedoro: A Dive into Dystopia
Dorohedoro, an adaptation of Q Hayashida’s manga, is a dark humor-laden journey into a dystopian world. The story revolves around Caiman, a man with a reptile head, navigating through the post-apocalyptic city known as “The Hole,” in a quest to regain his lost memory. The grim narrative coupled with the dark humor has made Dorohedoro an underrated gem since its premiere in 2020, now gaining traction on Netflix.
9. Kids on the Slope: A Musical Coming-of-Age Tale
Set in the nostalgic era of 1966, Kids on the Slope is a heartwarming tale of friendship and self-discovery, underscored by the rhythmic beats of jazz. The story follows Kaoru Nishimi, a transfer student who forms an unlikely friendship with the school rebel, all tied together by their love for jazz. This 2012 anime is a beautiful ode to young male friendships and the transformative power of music.
8. Banana Fish: Unraveling Conspiracies in Modern-Day New York
Banana Fish takes us on a thrilling ride through modern-day New York, as Ash Lynx, a young gang leader, delves into a conspiracy linked to the Iraq War. The narrative, filled with action and intrigue, has captivated audiences, making it a notable entry in Studio MAPPA’s repertoire.
7. Yuri!!! On Ice: Skating Through Self-Rediscovery
Yuri!!! On Ice is a heartwarming tale that transcends the icy realms of professional figure skating. Following the life of Yuri Katsuki, whose career takes a new turn under the mentorship of his idol Victor Nikiforov, this anime has been lauded for its representation of the LGBTQ community and the mesmerizing animation that brings the elegance of figure skating to life.
6. Hell’s Paradise: A Deadly Quest for Redemption
Hell’s Paradise, a recent addition to Studio MAPPA’s portfolio, has quickly garnered a fan base. The story follows Gabimaru, an assassin on a deadly quest to retrieve the Elixir of Life from a demon-infested island. With a second season already in the pipeline, as revealed by Crunchyroll, Hell’s Paradise is a promising new venture that has kept the audience on the edge of their seats.
Crunchyroll revealed a second season is already in the works!
Absolutely obsessed with how fluid the animation is each episode man,
JJK really is MAPPA’s favourite anime bc even on the “lower” episodes, the animators never miss🗣️🗣️
— DAL☯️ (@DallienceRNG) September 28, 2023
5. Dororo: A Historical Quest for Identity
Dororo, a dark fantasy set in feudal Japan, explores the life of Hyakkimaru, a boy on a quest to reclaim his body from demons, following a pact made by his father. This anime is a riveting blend of historical and fantasy elements, delving into themes of identity and purpose.
4. Chainsaw Man: A Gory Battle Against Evil
Chainsaw Man, based on Tatsuki Fujimoto’s manga, is a gruesome yet compelling narrative of Denji, who transforms into a chainsaw-wielding fighter post his untimely death. The anime has been praised for its faithful adaptation and the reflective narrative that keeps the audience hooked.
3. Jujutsu Kaisen: A Sorcerous Fight for Survival
Jujutsu Kaisen, a tale of sorcery and survival, follows Yuji Itadori as he joins a secret organization to combat curses. The anime has been appreciated for its relatable characters and gripping action sequences, making it a standout title in Studio MAPPA’s collection.
2. Vinland Saga: A Viking’s Voyage Through Adversity
Vinland Saga, initially a product of Wit Studio, saw a seamless transition to Studio MAPPA in its second season, mirroring the protagonist Thorfinn’s growth from a vengeful youth to a struggling adult. The anime continues to explore the harsh realities of the Viking era with a narrative that’s as compelling as it is visually stunning.
1. Attack on Titan: A Legacy of Rebellion
Attack on Titan, a monumental title in the anime world, found its way to Studio MAPPA in its final seasons. The saga of Eren Jaeger and his fight against the Titans has been a captivating narrative that has enthralled audiences for over a decade. Studio MAPPA’s rendition has been praised for maintaining the essence of the story while adding its unique touch, making Attack on Titan a timeless piece in the annals of anime.
Studio MAPPA’s journey through the years has been nothing short of remarkable. With each title, it has pushed the boundaries of storytelling and animation, earning a cherished spot in the hearts of anime aficionados worldwide.
