Studio MAPPA has emerged as a juggernaut in the anime industry, continually dazzling audiences with a plethora of titles that push the boundaries of animation, storytelling, and character development. Since its inception in 2011, MAPPA has redefined what fans expect from modern anime. With a track record that spans over a decade, the studio has produced some of the most compelling series that have graced our screens. In honor of their remarkable 12th anniversary, let’s delve into 20 of their finest works that are a testament to their storytelling prowess and animated artistry.
The Shonen Powerhouse: Jujutsu Kaisen
Any discussion of contemporary shonen cannot exclude the phenomenon that is “Jujutsu Kaisen.” Bursting onto the scene in 2020, this series has swiftly ascended to the top of MAPPA’s portfolio. The series follows Yuji Itadori as he is thrust into the arcane world of Jujutsu Sorcery. Known for its dynamic animation and compelling fight scenes, “Jujutsu Kaisen” also makes notable deviations from its manga, enriching the anime narrative and giving characters like Nobara and Nanamin expanded roles in key story arcs like the Shibuya Incident.
The Saga Concludes: Attack on Titan
“Attack on Titan” has remained a cornerstone of the anime zeitgeist for over a decade. With MAPPA at the helm for its climactic final season, which premiered in December 2020, the story continues from a significant time skip to reveal a world teetering on the brink of war. The final season is a masterclass in narrative closure, beautifully animated and painstakingly adapted from the manga.
An Idol Apocalypse: Zombie Land Saga
“Zombie Land Saga” flips the script on traditional zombie narratives by infusing it with the bright and bubbly world of idol culture. The series is an inventive blend of comedy, drama, and music, following the undead idol group as they seek to reinvigorate a declining business in the most unconventional ways possible.
The Gritty Realm of Dorohedoro
“Dorohedoro,” while not as widely known as some of MAPPA’s other titles, is a gem that explores the dark and dystopian landscape of “The Hole.” Viewers are plunged into a gritty universe where sorcerers conduct experiments on the denizens of this underworld. The story centers around Kaiman, who seeks to reclaim his lost memories and reverse his reptilian curse, leading to a grotesque yet engrossing adventure.
The Anticipated Debut: Chainsaw Man
With an explosive entrance into the 2022 fall anime lineup, “Chainsaw Man” promises to be a series that will leave a lasting impact. Following Denji’s transformation into a devil hunter after merging with his devil dog Pochita, this series is gearing up to redefine what audiences expect from dark fantasy anime.
mappa really blessed us with one of the best levi ackerman battle sequences ever pic.twitter.com/wysSMwmTWk
— levi content (@leviacontent) November 6, 2023
Grounded in Reality: Banana Fish
Set against the gritty backdrop of 1980s New York, “Banana Fish” is a powerful narrative that explores themes of gang strife, betrayal, and the consequences of a mysterious drug. This gripping series is as emotional as it is realistic, offering a more nuanced look into the human condition.
The Epic Continues: Vinland Saga Season 2
Vinland Saga’s sophomore season continues the harrowing tale of Thorfinn, as he navigates a path of vengeance, violence, and eventual introspection. The series is a brutal yet beautiful meditation on the nature of war and the quest for peace.
Grace on Ice: Yuri!!! on Ice
MAPPA also showcases its versatility with “Yuri!!! on Ice,” a heartfelt sports anime that captures the elegance of figure skating. The series has been lauded for its intricate animation of skating routines and the emotionally charged relationships between its characters.
The Culinary Adventure: Campfire Cooking in Another World
In the realm of isekai, “Campfire Cooking in Another World” is a delightful departure from typical fantasy fare, focusing on the universal joy of cooking. This anime serves up a satisfying blend of comfort and adventure.
The Pursuit of Immortality: Hell’s Paradise: Jigokuraku
Rounding out this impressive list is “Hell’s Paradise: Jigokuraku.” It chronicles the treacherous journey of Gabimaru the Hollow as he searches for the elixir of life, navigating betrayal and a contest of death among convicts.
Studio MAPPA’s portfolio is as diverse as it is impressive, covering a range of genres and themes that speak to the vastness of the anime landscape. These 20 titles represent just a slice of the creativity and innovation MAPPA brings to the medium. As they celebrate their 12th anniversary, we are reminded of the narratives they’ve shared with us and the ones that are yet to come. Whether you’re a long-time fan or a newcomer to the world of anime, MAPPA’s lineup is a testament to the studio’s commitment to excellence and its ability to weave stories that resonate across different spectrums of human experience. Here’s to many more years of groundbreaking anime from MAPPA.
