The 20 Most Underrated Anime Of 2022, Ranked

Anime in 2022 delivered some incredible titles that flew under the radar for many, overshadowed by the heavyweights like *Demon Slayer* and *Attack on Titan*. However, there were some gems from 2022 that didn’t quite get the recognition they deserved. In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into the 20 most underrated anime of 2022, showcasing some of the best series that deserve more attention. These hidden gems range from thought-provoking dramas to action-packed thrillers, offering a little something for every anime fan.

20. *Ya Boy Kongming!*

Starting off the list, *Ya Boy Kongming!* stands out for its eccentric premise. The story follows Zhuge Liang, a brilliant strategist from the Three Kingdoms period of China, who reincarnates in modern-day Tokyo. Instead of military warfare, he finds himself helping a struggling pop singer make it big in the music industry. The show blends historical figures with modern-day elements, creating an entertaining and unpredictable narrative. The fusion of different genres, such as comedy, music, and historical fiction, makes it one of the most original anime of 2022.

19. *The Executioner and Her Way of Life*

In a world where people from other realms are summoned to fight against monsters, *The Executioner and Her Way of Life* offers a fresh take by exploring the darker side of this premise. It follows a young man who is transported to a world where those summoned are often killed for being a threat to society. The anime’s unique take on the isekai genre, combined with its mature themes, makes it an underrated but refreshing watch for fans seeking something different.

18. *Futoku no Guild* (The Hidden Dungeon Only I Can Enter)

A blend of fantasy, comedy, and light fanservice, *Futoku no Guild* tells the story of a boy named Noir who discovers a mysterious dungeon. The twist? He can use the dungeon’s abilities to level up and gain rare items. While it leans into classic fantasy tropes, the show’s engaging characters and quirky humor provide an enjoyable experience that doesn’t get the attention it deserves.

17. *A Couple of Cuckoos*

It’s rare to find a romance anime that’s as wholesome yet comedic as *A Couple of Cuckoos*. This series centers around Nagi, a high school student who discovers that he’s been swapped at birth, and his arranged engagement to a girl he doesn’t know. The interactions between Nagi and his fiancée, as well as the emotional growth they both undergo, make it a standout romantic comedy that should have gotten more recognition in 2022.

16. *Shikimori’s Not Just a Cutie*

At first glance, *Shikimori’s Not Just a Cutie* may appear like another typical high school romance anime. However, it quickly stands out for its role reversal in the romantic dynamic. Shikimori, the female protagonist, is not just a cute girlshe’s a total badass with a tough exterior who protects her boyfriend from danger. The show plays with the usual romance tropes, making it an enjoyable, quirky series that’s fun to watch but sadly underrated.

15. *Engage Kiss*

Though it doesn’t break any major boundaries in its story, *Engage Kiss* is a fast-paced, entertaining anime with a fun combination of supernatural action and romance. Set in a futuristic city, the protagonist battles demons while dealing with his complicated relationships with two women. The animation is smooth, the plot engaging, and the character dynamics refreshing, but it didn’t make as big of a splash as it could have in 2022.

14. *Kakkou no Iinari*

This quirky anime is a delightful mix of comedy, drama, and romance, following a group of teenagers as they navigate high school life and relationships. The series focuses on how these characters bond and grow, despite facing societal pressures. With a charming storyline and relatable characters, it’s a lighthearted yet impactful show that didn’t get the widespread praise it deserved.

13. *Call of the Night*

For fans of supernatural and psychological anime, *Call of the Night* is a hidden gem. The story follows Ko, a teenager struggling with insomnia, who encounters a vampire named Nazuna. Their strange relationship and the deeper exploration of loneliness and desire make this show a standout. Its blend of the supernatural and coming-of-age elements is fascinating, yet it flew under the radar for many anime fans.

12. *Requiem of the Rose King*

*Requiem of the Rose King* offers a unique take on Shakespeare’s *Richard III*, blending historical fiction with dark fantasy. The anime’s gothic atmosphere, intricate plot, and compelling character development set it apart, but its niche appeal and slow pacing might have prevented it from reaching a larger audience. For fans of historical dramas with a twist, it’s an anime worth checking out.

11. *Tomodachi Game*

There’s something thrilling about *Tomodachi Game*, a psychological thriller where friends are forced to compete in deadly games of deception and betrayal. Despite its exciting premise and high stakes, it didn’t generate as much buzz as other psychological anime. The show’s dark and intense themes make it one of the more underrated psychological dramas of the year.

10. *Trapped in a Dating Sim: The World of Otome Games Is Tough for Mobs*

This isekai series might be one of the more enjoyable, underrated gems of 2022. The story follows a man who is reincarnated into an otome game as a mob character, only to defy the game’s predetermined outcomes. With a healthy balance of humor, romance, and action, this anime deserves more attention from fans of the genre. It’s the perfect blend of satire and fantasy that hits all the right notes.

9. *Demon Slayer: Entertainment District Arc*

While *Demon Slayer* is undoubtedly a giant in the anime world, the *Entertainment District Arc* still deserves mention here. While it was hugely successful, its success somewhat overshadowed the depth of storytelling and stunning animation in this arc. The introduction of new characters like Tengen Uzui, along with the beautifully choreographed battles, makes this arc unforgettable, even though it’s a bit of a follow-up in a season filled with top-tier anime.

8. *Mushoku Tensei: Jobless Reincarnation*

Even though *Mushoku Tensei* gained a substantial fan base in 2022, the depth of its world-building and character development still makes it one of the most underrated anime of the year. The show explores themes of growth, redemption, and self-discovery, all while offering stunning animation and thoughtful storytelling. It’s a must-watch for isekai fans, though it deserves even more praise for its intricate approach to the genre.

7. *Dai no Daibouken* (Dragon Quest: The Adventure of Dai)

For fans of classic adventure anime, *Dai no Daibouken* is a series that flew under the radar in 2022. Based on the *Dragon Quest* video game franchise, the anime delivers nostalgia, great character designs, and action-packed sequences. Its failure to fully capture the wider anime community’s attention is a shame, as the show provides everything fans of the genre could want.

6. *Dorohedoro* (Second Season)

While *Dorohedoro*’s first season gained attention, its second season, *Dorohedoro: The Lost World*, didn’t quite get the same recognition. The show’s bizarre world, dark humor, and unique character designs still make it one of the more underrated anime series, with an impressive mix of mystery, action, and absurdity that keeps viewers hooked.

5. *The Orbital Children*

In this sci-fi anime, *The Orbital Children* explores themes of space exploration, technology, and survival. Despite its intriguing concept and strong animation, it didn’t manage to captivate mainstream audiences in 2022. The show’s profound questions about humanity’s future in space and its distinct visual style make it one of the most underappreciated titles of the year.

4. *The Case Study of Vanitas* (Season 2)

The second season of *The Case Study of Vanitas* delivered the same mix of supernatural action, mystery, and romance that fans loved in the first season. With its unique blend of vampires and steampunk aesthetics, it’s one of the more sophisticated shows of the year. However, it didn’t get as much love as it deserved in 2022, despite its high-quality storytelling.

3. *Summertime Render*

One of the most underrated psychological thrillers of 2022, *Summertime Render* follows the story of a man caught in a time loop, trying to unravel the mystery behind his friend’s death. The show combines mystery, sci-fi, and thriller elements to create a gripping narrative that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. Its under-the-radar success makes it a hidden gem that fans of psychological thrillers should definitely check out.

2. *Spy x Family*

Although *Spy x Family* became incredibly popular, it’s still one of the most underrated anime in terms of its comedic charm, emotional depth, and well-rounded characters. The series follows a spy who must build a fake family in order to complete a mission, only for his “family” to be full of secrets of their own. A perfect mix of action, comedy, and heart, *Spy x Family* is often overlooked for its unique blend of genres.

1. *Made in Abyss: The Golden City of the Scorching Sun*

The continuation of *Made in Abyss* continues to haunt and mesmerize audiences with its deeply emotional storytelling and unrelenting atmosphere. The second season brings an even darker tone to the story, with chilling moments that few anime can match. Despite its acclaim, it remains underappreciated by mainstream audiences, making it the true hidden gem of 2022.

Experiences With Underrated Anime of 2022

Watching underrated anime often feels like discovering a secret world where creativity, storytelling, and artistry have a chance to flourish without the pressure of mass popularity. Some of these series, like *Summertime Render* or *Made in Abyss*, offer a level of depth and nuance that’s missing from mainstream hits. The way they build tension, develop their characters, and explore complex themes is a refreshing reminder of the boundless potential anime holds.

In my own experience, shows like *Ya Boy Kongming!* and *The Executioner and Her Way of Life* caught me off guard with their originality. I found myself eagerly anticipating each new episode because these anime offered something different from the usual fare. Whether it was the clever humor of *Ya Boy Kongming!* or the dark twists of *The Executioner and Her Way of Life*, these anime made me reflect on how underrated gems often get overlooked in favor of more popular titles.

The beauty of these underrated anime is that they allow for a more intimate viewing experience. There’s something special about watching a show that hasn’t yet reached the mainstream audience, knowing you’re among the first to discover it. These series challenge conventional storytelling, offer fresh perspectives, and provide moments of unexpected brilliance that make them worth seeking out.

Ultimately, the overlooked anime of 2022 prove that there’s much more to the medium than the top-billed franchises. From the thrill of psychological dramas like *Tomodachi Game* to the heartfelt emotional journeys in *A Couple of Cuckoos*, there’s no shortage of hidden treasures in the anime world. It’s just a matter of finding them.

Conclusion

2022 was a year filled with both mainstream hits and some incredibly underrated anime. Whether you’re looking for an action-packed adventure, a psychological thriller, or a heartfelt romance, there was something for everyone in this year’s under-the-radar series. From *Ya Boy Kongming!* to *Made in Abyss*, these hidden gems prove that sometimes the most exciting anime are the ones that don’t make the biggest splash. As anime fans, it’s our job to dig deeper and celebrate these underrated titles, helping them get the recognition they truly deserve.

sapo: Dive into the world of underrated anime with our list of the 20 most overlooked shows from 2022. These hidden gems showcase unique storytelling, unforgettable characters, and genres worth exploring.