Anime Summer 2022: The Ultimate Season Review
Hey everyone! Let's dive deep into the Anime Summer 2022 season. It was a season packed with surprises, continuations, and some absolute bangers. From thrilling action to heartwarming romance, there was something for every anime fan. In this comprehensive review, we'll break down the top titles, hidden gems, and overall trends that defined the summer of anime. So grab your snacks, settle in, and let's get started!
Top Anime Series of Summer 2022
The Summer 2022 anime season brought us some truly outstanding series that captured the hearts of viewers worldwide. These shows stood out not only for their engaging storylines and impressive animation but also for their memorable characters and overall impact. Let's take a closer look at some of the top contenders that made this season unforgettable.
Lycoris Recoil
Lycoris Recoil emerged as one of the season's biggest surprises. This original anime, produced by A-1 Pictures, quickly gained popularity for its stylish action sequences and endearing characters. The story revolves around elite agents known as "Lycoris" who maintain peace in Tokyo by eliminating criminals. The contrast between the serious nature of their work and the cute, everyday lives they lead creates a unique and captivating viewing experience. The animation quality is consistently high, with fluid fight scenes and vibrant backgrounds that bring the world to life. What sets Lycoris Recoil apart is its focus on the relationship between the two main characters, Chisato and Takina. Their dynamic is a perfect blend of comedy and heartwarming moments, making them a beloved duo among fans. The series also tackles deeper themes of identity, purpose, and the cost of maintaining peace, adding layers of complexity to the narrative. The unexpected twists and turns kept viewers on the edge of their seats, making Lycoris Recoil a must-watch anime of the Summer 2022 season. Its blend of action, comedy, and slice-of-life elements appealed to a wide audience, solidifying its place as a standout title.
Overlord IV
The highly anticipated fourth season of Overlord finally arrived, much to the delight of fans who had been eagerly awaiting its return. Overlord IV continues the epic saga of Ainz Ooal Gown as he navigates the challenges of ruling his kingdom and dealing with various political and military threats. This season delves deeper into the intricate power dynamics of the New World, introducing new characters and exploring the motivations of existing ones. The animation quality saw a noticeable improvement, with more detailed character designs and visually stunning battle sequences. One of the highlights of Overlord IV is its strategic depth. Ainz's meticulous planning and calculated decisions make him a compelling protagonist, even as he grapples with the moral implications of his actions. The supporting cast also shines, with each character contributing to the overall narrative in meaningful ways. The season's pacing is well-managed, balancing action-packed moments with quieter, character-driven scenes. The world-building remains a strong point, with the lore of the New World continuing to expand and captivate viewers. Overlord IV successfully builds upon the foundation laid by previous seasons, delivering a satisfying continuation of the story. For fans of dark fantasy and strategic anime, this season was a definite highlight of the Summer 2022 lineup.
Made in Abyss: The Golden City of the Scorching Sun
Made in Abyss returned with its long-awaited second season, The Golden City of the Scorching Sun, and it did not disappoint. Known for its stunning visuals and dark, compelling storyline, this season takes Riko, Reg, and Nanachi deeper into the abyss, where they encounter new dangers and uncover more of the abyss's mysteries. The animation quality is breathtaking, with intricate details and vibrant colors that bring the bizarre and beautiful world of the abyss to life. The character designs are expressive, and the creatures are both fascinating and terrifying. What makes Made in Abyss so captivating is its ability to blend adventure with horror, creating a sense of unease and wonder. The story delves into the themes of survival, sacrifice, and the relentless pursuit of knowledge. The characters face moral dilemmas and make difficult choices, adding depth and complexity to the narrative. The sound design is also exceptional, with a haunting soundtrack that enhances the atmosphere and emotional impact of the scenes. The Golden City of the Scorching Sun is a masterclass in world-building and storytelling, solidifying Made in Abyss's reputation as one of the best dark fantasy anime of recent years. For those who enjoy a challenging and thought-provoking anime, this season was a must-watch. The emotional depth and narrative complexity set it apart from other titles in the Summer 2022 season.
Hidden Gems and Underrated Anime
While some anime series receive widespread attention and acclaim, others may fly under the radar despite their quality and potential. Summer 2022 had its share of hidden gems that deserve recognition. These underrated anime often offer unique stories, compelling characters, and fresh perspectives that can surprise and delight viewers.
Shadows House 2nd Season
The second season of Shadows House continues the intriguing story of Kate and Emilico as they navigate the mysteries of the Shadows House. This season delves deeper into the secrets of the mansion and the true nature of the Shadows and their living dolls. The animation quality remains consistent, with a gothic aesthetic that complements the story's dark and mysterious tone. The character designs are unique, and the backgrounds are detailed, creating a visually captivating world. Shadows House stands out for its intricate plot and well-developed characters. The relationship between Kate and Emilico is at the heart of the story, and their bond is tested as they uncover the truth about their existence. The series explores themes of identity, freedom, and the power of friendship. The pacing is deliberate, allowing the story to unfold gradually and build suspense. The mysteries are well-crafted, and the reveals are satisfying. For those who enjoy a blend of mystery, gothic horror, and character-driven drama, Shadows House 2nd Season is a hidden gem that should not be missed. Its unique premise and engaging storyline make it a standout title in the Summer 2022 season.
Yurei Deco
Yurei Deco is an original anime that blends science fiction with a unique visual style. The story is set in a futuristic city where virtual reality and augmented reality are integrated into everyday life. The protagonist, Berry, discovers a hidden world of "yurei deco," virtual ghosts that reveal the city's secrets. The animation style is vibrant and colorful, with a distinctive character design that sets it apart from other anime. The world-building is imaginative, creating a believable and engaging futuristic setting. Yurei Deco explores themes of technology, social inequality, and the search for truth. The story is full of twists and turns, keeping viewers guessing until the very end. The characters are well-developed, each with their own motivations and backstories. The series also incorporates humor and lighthearted moments, balancing the serious themes with a sense of fun. Yurei Deco is an underrated anime that offers a fresh and unique perspective on the sci-fi genre. Its imaginative world, engaging story, and distinctive visual style make it a must-watch for those looking for something different in the Summer 2022 season.
Trends and Observations from Summer 2022
The Summer 2022 anime season was marked by several notable trends and observations that shaped the overall viewing experience. From the prevalence of isekai titles to the rise of original anime, there were several factors that defined the season's unique characteristics.
The Popularity of Isekai Continues
Isekai, or "other world" anime, remained a dominant genre in the Summer 2022 season. These series typically involve a protagonist being transported to a fantasy world, where they must navigate new challenges and often gain extraordinary abilities. While the isekai genre has been popular for several years, it continues to evolve and attract a large audience. One of the reasons for the genre's enduring appeal is its escapism. Isekai anime allow viewers to immerse themselves in fantastical worlds and imagine themselves as powerful heroes. The genre also offers a wide range of subgenres, from action-packed adventures to comedic slice-of-life stories. Some notable isekai anime from the Summer 2022 season include Black Summoner. While these series may not have reinvented the genre, they provided entertaining and engaging experiences for fans of isekai. The continued popularity of isekai suggests that the genre will remain a staple of anime for years to come. However, as the genre becomes more saturated, it is important for creators to find new and innovative ways to stand out from the crowd. The challenge lies in balancing familiar tropes with fresh ideas to keep the isekai genre exciting and relevant.
Original Anime Shine
One of the most exciting trends of the Summer 2022 season was the emergence of several high-quality original anime. Unlike adaptations, original anime are not based on existing manga or light novels, giving creators more freedom to explore new ideas and concepts. Lycoris Recoil stood out as a prime example of the potential of original anime. Its unique story, engaging characters, and stylish animation made it one of the season's biggest hits. Other original anime, such as Yurei Deco, also garnered attention for their creativity and innovation. The success of these original anime suggests that there is a growing demand for fresh and unique stories in the anime industry. Original anime allow creators to take risks and experiment with new ideas, leading to unexpected and rewarding results. While adaptations will always be an important part of the anime landscape, the rise of original anime is a positive sign for the industry's future. It demonstrates a willingness to invest in new talent and explore uncharted territory, which can lead to the creation of even more memorable and groundbreaking anime series.
Final Thoughts
The Anime Summer 2022 season was a diverse and exciting collection of shows. Whether you were into action, romance, fantasy, or slice-of-life, there was something for everyone to enjoy. From the breakout success of Lycoris Recoil to the highly anticipated return of Overlord, the season delivered plenty of memorable moments and engaging stories. While some series may have been overlooked, the overall quality of the Summer 2022 lineup was impressive. As we look ahead to future anime seasons, it's clear that the industry is continuing to evolve and innovate. The rise of original anime and the enduring popularity of isekai suggest that there is a strong demand for both fresh ideas and familiar tropes. By embracing creativity and taking risks, the anime industry can continue to surprise and delight viewers around the world. So, what were your favorite anime of the Summer 2022 season? Let us know in the comments below! And be sure to stay tuned for more anime reviews and recommendations in the future. Happy watching, anime fans!
