Top Anime Of Spring 2022: Must-Watch Series Ranked

Hey anime fans! Spring 2022 was an amazing season for anime, serving up a delicious mix of new series and returning favorites. If you're looking for the absolute best anime from that season, you've come to the right place. We're diving deep into the standout shows that captured our hearts and kept us glued to our screens. This list isn't just about popularity; it's about quality, innovation, and the lasting impact these anime had on the community. So, grab your snacks, settle in, and let's explore the top anime of Spring 2022!

The Rising of the Shield Hero Season 2

The Rising of the Shield Hero made a triumphant return with its second season, continuing the epic journey of Naofumi Iwatani, the unfairly vilified Shield Hero. Season 2 delves deeper into the intricate world-building, introducing new threats and challenges that test Naofumi's resilience and strategic thinking. While the first season focused on establishing Naofumi's character and his struggle against injustice, the second season explores the broader consequences of the Waves and the political complexities of the world he's been thrust into. One of the highlights of Season 2 is the introduction of new allies, each with their unique abilities and backstories, adding depth to Naofumi's party and providing fresh dynamics. These characters not only aid Naofumi in battle but also offer emotional support, helping him to overcome the psychological scars from his past experiences. The season also addresses some of the criticisms leveled at the first season, particularly regarding the portrayal of female characters. While Raphtalia remains a central figure, Season 2 introduces other strong female characters who contribute significantly to the plot and challenge traditional gender roles. The animation quality remains consistent with the first season, with fluid action sequences and detailed character designs. However, some fans felt that the pacing of the second season was uneven, with certain arcs feeling rushed while others dragged on. Despite these minor flaws, The Rising of the Shield Hero Season 2 is a worthy continuation of the series, offering a compelling blend of action, adventure, and character development. It expands upon the themes of trust, betrayal, and redemption, making it a must-watch for fans of the isekai genre. The world-building is also a strong point, with the introduction of new countries, cultures, and mythical creatures that enrich the overall narrative. Furthermore, the season delves into the political intrigue surrounding the other heroes and their respective kingdoms, adding layers of complexity to the storyline. The challenges Naofumi faces are not limited to physical battles; he must also navigate treacherous alliances and conspiracies, making strategic decisions that can have far-reaching consequences. The soundtrack complements the visuals, enhancing the emotional impact of key scenes and creating a sense of immersion. The opening and ending themes are catchy and memorable, adding to the overall appeal of the series. While Season 2 may not reach the same heights as the first season in terms of critical acclaim, it still delivers a satisfying and engaging viewing experience, solidifying The Rising of the Shield Hero as one of the top isekai anime of recent years.

Spy x Family

Spy x Family was THE breakout hit of Spring 2022, and for good reason! This anime blends espionage, comedy, and heartwarming family dynamics into a truly unique and irresistible package. The story centers around Loid Forger, a master spy tasked with infiltrating an elite private school to prevent a war between Westalis and Ostania. To accomplish this mission, he creates a fake family, adopting Anya, a telepathic orphan, and marrying Yor, a skilled assassin. What makes Spy x Family so special is the way it balances high-stakes missions with the everyday challenges of family life. Loid struggles to be a good father and husband while maintaining his cover, Anya uses her telepathic abilities to hilarious effect, and Yor tries to reconcile her deadly profession with her desire for a normal family. The characters are incredibly well-developed and relatable, each with their own quirks and motivations. Loid's cool and collected demeanor hides a deep sense of responsibility, Anya's mischievousness is endearing, and Yor's awkwardness adds to her charm. The animation is top-notch, with vibrant colors and expressive character designs. The action sequences are exciting and dynamic, while the comedic moments are perfectly timed and executed. The soundtrack is also excellent, featuring catchy tunes that perfectly complement the show's tone. Spy x Family isn't just a fun and entertaining anime; it also explores deeper themes of family, identity, and the importance of connection. The Forger family may be fake, but the bonds they form are real, and their love for each other grows stronger with each episode. The series also touches upon the absurdity of war and the importance of communication and understanding between different cultures. The success of Spy x Family can be attributed to its broad appeal. It's a show that can be enjoyed by viewers of all ages and backgrounds, thanks to its blend of action, comedy, and heart. The series has also spawned a massive fanbase, with countless fan art, cosplay, and merchandise. The impact of Spy x Family on the anime community has been significant, revitalizing the spy genre and introducing a new generation of viewers to the joys of anime. The series has also been praised for its positive representation of families and its emphasis on the importance of love and acceptance. In conclusion, Spy x Family is a must-watch anime that deserves all the hype it has received. It's a truly special show that will leave you laughing, crying, and wanting more. The series is a testament to the power of storytelling and the importance of creating relatable and engaging characters. If you haven't already, be sure to check out Spy x Family and experience the magic for yourself.

Ya Boy Kongming!

Ya Boy Kongming! is the surprise hit of Spring 2022 that no one saw coming. This anime takes the historical figure of Zhuge Liang (Kongming), a brilliant strategist from the Three Kingdoms period of China, and transports him to modern-day Tokyo. Reborn as a young man, Kongming finds himself in the vibrant world of Shibuya nightlife, where he encounters Eiko Tsukimi, an aspiring singer with a powerful voice. Intrigued by her talent and determined to help her achieve her dreams, Kongming uses his legendary strategic mind to guide her to stardom. What makes Ya Boy Kongming! so unique is its clever blend of historical drama, comedy, and music. The series seamlessly weaves together Kongming's historical background with the modern-day setting, creating a hilarious and engaging contrast. Kongming's strategic thinking is applied to everything from music promotion to managing Eiko's social media presence, resulting in some truly absurd and entertaining scenarios. The characters are also a major highlight of the show. Kongming's fish-out-of-water antics are endlessly amusing, while Eiko's determination and passion are inspiring. The supporting cast is equally memorable, with each character adding their own unique flavor to the story. The music in Ya Boy Kongming! is another standout feature. Eiko's songs are catchy and uplifting, and the series features a diverse range of musical genres, from J-pop to hip-hop. The animation is vibrant and colorful, capturing the energy and excitement of the Shibuya nightlife. The action sequences are surprisingly well-animated, with Kongming using his strategic mind to outwit his opponents in various competitions and challenges. Ya Boy Kongming! isn't just a comedy; it also explores themes of ambition, perseverance, and the power of music. Eiko's journey to stardom is fraught with challenges, but she never gives up on her dreams. Kongming's unwavering support and guidance help her to overcome obstacles and reach her full potential. The series also celebrates the rich history and culture of China, highlighting the wisdom and strategic thinking of Zhuge Liang. The success of Ya Boy Kongming! can be attributed to its originality and its ability to surprise viewers. The series takes a familiar historical figure and places him in a completely unexpected setting, resulting in a truly unique and unforgettable anime experience. The show has also been praised for its positive message and its celebration of music and culture. In conclusion, Ya Boy Kongming! is a must-watch anime that will leave you laughing, singing, and inspired. It's a truly special show that deserves all the attention it has received. The series is a testament to the power of creativity and the importance of taking risks. If you're looking for something different and refreshing, be sure to check out Ya Boy Kongming!

Conclusion

Spring 2022 delivered some truly unforgettable anime experiences. From the strategic brilliance of Ya Boy Kongming! to the heartwarming family dynamics of Spy x Family and the continued adventures in The Rising of the Shield Hero Season 2, there was something for everyone. These anime not only entertained us but also left a lasting impact on the anime community, sparking discussions, fan art, and cosplay. If you missed out on these gems during their initial release, now is the perfect time to catch up and discover why they were among the best anime of Spring 2022. Happy watching, guys!