Underrated Anime Series with Great Storytelling: Hidden Gems You Need to Watch

Anime has long been celebrated for its vibrant worlds, dynamic characters, and intricate plots. While mainstream anime like “Naruto,” “One Piece,” and “Attack on Titan” receive all the spotlight, there are countless underrated anime series with great storytelling that go unnoticed. These series may not have the massive fanbase of their more popular counterparts, but they still offer rich narratives, character development, and unforgettable moments.

Many viewers are constantly searching for anime that offer unique perspectives, deep emotional arcs, and engaging plots, which aren’t always available in the mainstream hits. Some of these hidden gems manage to build complex worlds and characters in ways that captivate the audience and leave them yearning for more.

In this article, we will dive into the world of underrated anime with fantastic storytelling. From psychological thrillers to emotional dramas, these series may not be on everyone’s radar, but they’re certainly worth your time.

Key Points to Remember:

1. Underrated anime often offer a deeper narrative than mainstream titles.
2. These hidden gems explore unique themes that are not often covered in popular anime.
3. Underrated anime may surprise you with compelling character growth and world-building.

Why Are Some Anime Series Underrated?

In the world of anime, popularity is often tied to factors like massive production budgets, established franchises, or extensive marketing efforts. However, many series that offer incredible storytelling end up flying under the radar for various reasons. Some of these reasons include:

• Limited Exposure: Many underrated anime never get the attention they deserve due to limited advertising or poor timing. With a lack of marketing campaigns and exposure, these series might not be on viewers’ radar. 
• Competing with Big Names: With mainstream series dominating the market, many hidden gems simply struggle to get noticed. The competition is tough, and often, smaller studios or less popular genres don’t have the same marketing power behind them. 
• Niche Genres: Some underrated anime fall into niche genres that may not appeal to the broader anime audience. These series may focus on unique themes, slow-burn narratives, or experimental formats, making them harder to market or understand for general viewers. 
• Lack of Merchandise or Spin-offs: Big franchises often have merchandise, video games, and multiple seasons, which help keep the anime relevant in mainstream conversation. Underrated anime typically don’t have these additional elements, making them more easily forgotten. 

However, just because an anime is underrated doesn’t mean it’s not worth watching. In fact, many of these series provide more nuanced, emotional, and thought-provoking stories than the more well-known shows.

Example:
One of the most famous underrated anime is “Steins;Gate,” a time-travel thriller that explores the consequences of tampering with time. Despite its initial low popularity, it has since gained a strong following thanks to its incredible narrative.

What Are the Best Underrated Anime Series with Great Storytelling?

When it comes to underrated anime series with great storytelling, the list is vast and varied. These series excel in delivering unique narratives, well-developed characters, and emotional depth, all while remaining under the radar of mainstream anime fans.

1. Erased (Boku dake ga Inai Machi)

“Erased” is a psychological thriller that blends elements of time travel and murder mystery. The story follows Satoru Fujinuma, a man who has the ability to travel back in time and prevent tragedies from happening. After being accused of a crime he didn’t commit, Satoru is sent back to his childhood, where he must uncover the mystery behind a series of kidnappings.

Why It’s Underrated:
While “Erased” gained some recognition, it was overshadowed by other anime series that year. Its gripping narrative and emotional moments make it a must-watch, but it remains a hidden gem.

Key Features:

• Intricate time-travel narrative.
• Deep emotional exploration of trauma and redemption.
• Suspenseful mystery that keeps viewers on edge.

2. The Tatami Galaxy (Yojouhan Shinwa Taikei)

“The Tatami Galaxy” is an experimental anime that dives into themes of regrets and the choices that shape our lives. The story follows an unnamed college student as he explores different versions of his life, trying to make better choices and find true happiness.

Why It’s Underrated:
Despite being visually stunning and thought-provoking, “The Tatami Galaxy” did not gain widespread attention due to its unconventional narrative structure and visual style.

Key Features:

• Unique visual style and innovative animation.
• Exploration of alternate realities and self-discovery.
• Fast-paced narrative that keeps viewers engaged.

3. Mushishi

“Mushishi” is a calm, atmospheric anime that follows Ginko, a wandering “Mushi Master,” as he encounters various strange, supernatural creatures known as Mushishi. The anime explores themes of nature, life, and the interaction between humans and the environment.

Why It’s Underrated:
Though it has a dedicated fanbase, “Mushishi” is often overlooked due to its slower pace and contemplative storytelling. It’s a perfect anime for those who enjoy serene and reflective narratives.

Key Features:

• Beautiful artwork and a relaxing pace.
• Philosophical exploration of life and nature.
• Standalone episodes that explore different themes.

4. Welcome to the NHK (NHK ni Youkoso!)

“Welcome to the NHK” is a dark comedy that delves into the life of a recluse named Satou, who battles depression, anxiety, and his paranoia about a supposed conspiracy led by the NHK network. It explores the complexities of social isolation, mental health, and personal growth.

Why It’s Underrated:
The anime’s heavy themes of mental illness and social anxiety prevent it from being as mainstream as other comedies, but its sharp wit and dark humor make it stand out.

Key Features:

• Raw, real-life exploration of mental health.
• Intricate character development and growth.
• Dark humor with a satirical edge.

Comparison Table: Underrated Anime Series with Great Storytelling

Conclusion:

The underrated anime series with great storytelling offer some of the most complex, emotional, and engaging narratives in the anime world. While they may not always have the flashy marketing or large fanbases of more popular shows, their storytelling prowess makes them worth watching. These hidden gems explore a variety of themes, from time travel and mystery to personal growth and self-reflection.

If you’re tired of mainstream anime and want to explore more deeply nuanced series, these underrated anime are a great place to start. They offer new perspectives, unforgettable characters, and plots that will keep you thinking long after the credits roll.

FAQ’s

1. What makes an anime underrated? 
   • An anime is considered underrated if it doesn’t gain the attention it deserves despite having excellent storytelling, characters, or visuals.
2. Are there any other underrated anime with great storytelling? 
   • Yes, other underrated anime series include “Paranoia Agent,” “Serial Experiments Lain,” and “Hikaru no Go,” all of which offer unique and compelling narratives.
3. Why do some underrated anime have such unique storytelling? 
   • Many underrated anime series focus on niche genres or experimental storytelling methods that don’t appeal to a wide audience but resonate with those who appreciate deep narratives.
4. How can I find more underrated anime series? 
   • Checking online anime forums, recommendations from anime communities, or streaming platforms like Crunchyroll and Funimation can help you find hidden gems.
5. Are underrated anime worth watching if they’re not popular? 
   • Absolutely! Many underrated anime offer the best storytelling because they focus on character depth, innovative plots, and exploration of unique themes.