MAPPA is an animation studio known for its beautiful work, like the exciting action in Jujutsu Kaisen and the impressive visuals of Attack on Titan‘s final season. The positive feedback these shows receive is well-deserved, but MAPPA created many other excellent series and films before those hits that also deserve to be recognized.
You might recognize a few of these anime if you’ve been a fan for a long time, but that doesn’t mean they don’t deserve more attention. Because many of them are older – made over ten years ago – the animation might not be as polished as what you’ve seen in recent hits like Chainsaw Man, Hell’s Paradise, and Jujutsu Kaisen from MAPPA.
Terror in Resonance Stands as One of the Best Thriller Anime
Although not perfect, Terror in Resonance makes viewers question their assumptions by presenting the story from the point of view of two individuals labeled as “terrorists.” While their methods are extreme, the anime gradually reveals that Twelve and Nine are driven by experiences of abuse, trauma, and a desire to fight against corruption.
Beyond its compelling storyline, this anime is directed by Shinichiro Watanabe – known for classics like Cowboy Bebop and Samurai Champloo. Viewers who enjoyed Terror in Resonance often highlight the show’s distinctive visuals and moving music, which perfectly complement the intricate story. It’s comparable to other great anime but feels more realistic and down-to-earth.
Yuri!!! On Ice Deserves a Second Season
Yuri!!! On Ice broke new ground for sports anime by openly portraying a romantic relationship between two men. The story follows Yuri Katsuki, a Japanese figure skater who’s lost confidence after a disappointing competition. His love for the sport is rekindled when his idol, the renowned Russian champion Victor Nikiforov, starts coaching him.
At first, Yuri!!! On Ice centers around Yuri regaining his self-assurance and the unexpected competition he faces from another talented skater named Yuri Plisetsky, who also looks up to Victor. However, what really captivated viewers was the developing connection between Victor and the main character, blossoming from mutual trust into a heartfelt romance.
MAPPA delivered on its promise with stunning animation of the figure skating performances in Yuri!!! On Ice. Despite only having one season, which aired in 2016, fans are still eager for the planned movie to be made or for the series to continue with a second season. Ultimately, Yuri!!! On Ice is a unique and heartfelt sports anime that isn’t afraid to show emotional depth.
Kids on the Slope is an Overlooked Coming-of-Age Story
Released in 2012, Kids on the Slope is a remarkably realistic anime about growing up, with characters that feel incredibly genuine. Set in 1960s Japan after World War II, the story follows three friends—Kaoru, Sentaro, and Ritsuko. While there’s a love triangle, the drama feels natural and unforced. The series beautifully captures the awkwardness and mistakes of being a teenager, and what makes it truly special is how the characters’ friendship endures as they learn and grow from their flaws.
It’s no surprise that Kids on the Slope is directed by Shinichiro Watanabe, as it’s his second anime on this list. Beyond its realistic story and romantic elements, the show boasts an incredible soundtrack. Watanabe often works with Yoko Kanno, and together they created the perfect music for Kids on the Slope, which is deeply connected to the characters and a key part of what makes the series so special. While MAPPA is famous for action-packed shows, they clearly have the ability to create something more gentle and heartwarming as well.
Dorohedoro Doesn’t Shy Away from Being Bizarre
If you enjoy anime like JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure and Gintama, you’ll love Dorohedoro. It’s a bit of a hidden gem from the studio MAPPA, offering a wild mix of comedy and a story full of surprises. The world is incredibly creative, with even the bad guys having interesting backstories, and the characters are truly endearing. Many fans consider its second season to be among the best of recent anime, alongside hits like Jujutsu Kaisen, Chainsaw Man, and Hell’s Paradise.
The success of Dorohedoro lies in MAPPA’s ability to capture the manga’s unique and striking visual style. The animation truly brings the story to life, and the original manga is excellent on its own. Although it might not appeal to all viewers, Dorohedoro‘s clever humor and surprisingly deep story make it a standout anime from MAPPA in recent years.
In This Corner of the World Gives a Voice to Innocent Citizens During War
Similar to Isao Takahata’s Grave of the Fireflies, In This Corner of the World is a heartbreaking film about World War II. It tells the story of Suzu, a young woman who moves to Kure, a city near Hiroshima, and follows her life as she gets married and struggles to survive the war. The film portrays the hardships of wartime, including air raids, food shortages, and the pain of losing family and friends.
I’ve seen a lot of war films, and they usually center on battles and the soldiers fighting them. But In This Corner of the World felt different – it showed how everyday people just tried to live through World War II. What really struck me was how the animation studio, MAPPA, handled Suzu’s inner world. They seamlessly moved between her vivid imagination – a way for her to cope with everything happening – and the difficult reality around her. The animation style itself is beautiful, almost like a watercolor painting, which makes the contrast with the horrors of war even more powerful. It’s a heartbreaking film, and I think it’s one of MAPPA’s best works.
2026-07-20 18:12