A Decade of Anime: Reflecting on the Best of 2015
As we celebrate the tenth anniversary of 2015, a remarkable year in anime, it is essential to recognize the shows that not only shaped the landscape of the medium but also left a lasting impact on viewers. This retrospective highlights the ten most acclaimed anime of that year, evaluating their legacy based on quality, storytelling, animation, and fan reception.
The Top Ten Anime of 2015
10. Plastic Memories
Studio: Doga Kobo
Legacy: While not widely remembered today, Plastic Memories garnered significant fan support upon its release. The story centers around Tsukasa, an employee at a company that manages AI androids, who develops feelings for Ilya as he works to retrieve androids nearing the end of their lifespan. Though criticized for adhering to familiar tropes, it remains a heartfelt tale that resonates emotionally with its audience.
9. Prison School
Studio: J.C. Staff
Legacy: Offering a unique take on the school genre, Prison School follows five boys enrolled at an all-girls institution who get caught in a peeping scandal. The series stands out due to its bold humor and raunchy fan service, potentially alienating some viewers, yet it has achieved cult status among fans who appreciate its absurdity and comedic value.
8. Osomatsu-San
Studio: Pierrot
Legacy: This revival of the beloved Osomatsu-Kun series brings a comedic twist, portraying the sextuplets as unemployed adults engaging in slapstick humor. Its clever references to contemporary anime and pop culture have helped maintain its relevance, with a new season set to be released in 2025, underlining its enduring popularity.
7. Food Wars! Shokugeki no Soma
Studio: J.C. Staff
Legacy: Following Soma, a young chef at an elite culinary school, this series infuses food battles with intense competition and dramatic cooking scenes, often accompanied by fanservice. Despite mixed opinions on its provocative elements, the exhilarating nature of the cooking duels has made it a staple within the genre.
6. Overlord
Studio: Madhouse
Legacy: Emerging at the forefront of the Isekai genre, Overlord features a gamer who is transported into the world of his virtual MMORPG as a powerful skeleton overlord. Its unique premise and darker themes have allowed it to maintain a robust following, securing its place among the best Isekai narratives.
5. Sound! Euphonium
Studio: Kyoto Animation
Legacy: A story about high school band members navigating personal challenges and aspirations, Sound! Euphonium has earned acclaim for its remarkable character development and emotional depth. Its continued success is evidenced by ongoing adaptations and a dedicated fanbase.
4. Dragon Ball Super
Studio: Toei Animation
Legacy: As a continuation of the beloved Dragon Ball series, Dragon Ball Super tackles new cosmic threats while rejuvenating interest in the franchise. Although met with criticism regarding fillers, its innovative arcs have captivated a new generation of fans and solidified its status as a cultural phenomenon.
3. Death Parade
Studio: Madhouse
Legacy: This original series delves into the ethical dilemmas surrounding life and death as a bartender judges souls in the afterlife. While its initial popularity has subsided, Death Parade remains deeply respected for its philosophical themes and strong character relationships.
2. Assassination Classroom
Studio: Lerche
Legacy: The premise of students tasked with assassinating their alien teacher becomes a narrative rich with humor and heartfelt lessons about life and growth. Celebrating its tenth anniversary, Assassination Classroom continues to resonate with audiences for its combination of charm and action.
1. One-Punch Man
Studio: Madhouse
Legacy: Dominating the anime landscape, One-Punch Man redefined superhero narratives with its blend of humor and stunning animation. The first season remains a landmark in anime history, despite the mixed reception of its sequel. It has established itself as a cultural touchstone that has had a profound influence on the genre.
Conclusion: A Lasting Impact
As 2025 approaches, reflecting on these standout anime from 2015 reveals the dynamic evolution of the medium over the past decade. With the rise of new series continually shaping audiences’ tastes, it is crucial to celebrate and remember the anime that laid the groundwork for today’s vibrant landscape. This decade-long journey underscores not only how far the industry has come but also how these earlier works continue to inspire and engage new fans worldwide.
