In Isekai anime, the protagonist gets transported from their everyday world into a new or parallel one. This genre has peaked in recent years. This genre does a great job of providing the audiences with an escapist fantasy. Moreover, the entire ordeal of starting a life from scratch in an unknown world seems quite appealing. With abundant Isekai anime in the community, selecting a particular series to watch every day is becoming challenging. However, here is a list of Isekai anime that will be popular throughout 2023.
1. Mushoku Tensei: Jobless Reincarnation
Mushoku Tensei revolves around the story of a 34-year-old with nothing going on in his life. However, he gets another chance at life after dying in a traffic accident. He is reborn in a world of swords and magic but retains the memories of his past life. He decides not to commit the same mistakes again. The story is quite dark, emotionally complex, and morally inclined, which received heavy criticism from audiences. However, despite the smoke, the series performed well and is still one of the most popular Isekai anime. With beautiful animation and captivating new world-building, Rudeus Greyrat’s story is worth watching.
2. Re:Zero
The story of Re: Zero is about a teenager named Subaru who is transported to another world. Appearing as another bland Isekai, horror dawns upon Subaru when he dies in another world. The teenager soon realizes he has a mysterious power to rewind time upon death, allowing him to try to prevent tragedy. The protagonist’s overpowered nature makes Re: Zero stand out from other Isekai series. He is just an average person who can rewind time, which puts him through excruciating trials. Subaru’s gruesome deaths and frantic struggles to save his friends using his “Return by Death” ability make for an unpredictable viewing experience.
3. That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime
This Isekai anime is called Tensura and follows the story of an office worker, Satoru, who is transported to another world and born a slime monster. This story captures RPG-style adventures. The part where this series outshines others is the premise of the protagonist being reborn as an unlikely creature. That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime puts a comedic spin on the Isekai genre. From dragons to goblins, Satoru creates his own nation of monsters. The series balances humor with world-building and action and is one of the best modern Isekai anime.
4. Sword Art Online
Sword Art Online revolves around the story of Kirito. He gets trapped inside a virtual reality with thousands of other players. However, there is a dreadful twist: anyone who dies in-game will also die in real life. However, the only way to get out of the game is for Kirito and his allies to progress through each dungeon. This Isekai was a massive hit back in 2012 and also remains hugely influential today. Sword Art Online was an absolute breakout with an intense premise and stellar animation. Viewers enjoyed the concept of players getting trapped within a game with lethal consequences.
5. The Rising of the Shield hero
Naofumi is a college student transported to another world with three other people. These people are considered heroes who are prophesied to save a parallel realm. However, Naofumi has gotten the shorter end of the stick. Unlike his comrades, who are granted swords and spears, Naofumi is stuck with a shield. Moreover, the story gets intense as the protagonist is framed for crimes he didn’t commit and is banished from the kingdom. The Rising of the Shield Hero delves into trauma, discrimination, and injustice. Lastly, watching Naofumi right against a rigged system and rising to the top is enjoyable.
