Summer 2022 Anime: Our Top Picks

What's up, anime fans! Summer 2022 was an absolute blast, wasn't it? We saw some killer shows drop, from mind-bending thrillers to heartwarming slice-of-life gems and epic action fests. Trying to figure out which ones were the absolute cream of the crop can be tough, so we've gone ahead and done the heavy lifting for you. Get ready, because we're diving deep into the best anime of Summer 2022 and breaking down why they absolutely crushed it. Whether you're a seasoned otaku or just jumping into the anime pool, this list is your ultimate guide to the must-watch series that defined the season. So grab your snacks, settle in, and let's get this party started!

Lycoris Recoil: The Unlikely Duo That Stole Our Hearts

Yo, let's talk about Lycoris Recoil. Seriously, if you slept on this one, you messed up! This anime was a total surprise package and quickly became one of the best anime of Summer 2022 for so many reasons. At its core, it's about Chisato Nishikigi and Takina Inoue, two agents from a secret all-female organization called Lycoris, who are tasked with taking down criminals and terrorists. Sounds intense, right? But what makes Lycoris Recoil truly special is its incredible blend of high-octane action and genuinely heartwarming character interactions. Chisato is this super laid-back, almost childlike agent who's ridiculously skilled but prefers to incapacitate rather than kill, often using non-lethal methods that are just as flashy as they are effective. Then you've got Takina, who's more by-the-book, serious, and a bit socially awkward, but fiercely loyal and surprisingly good at adapting. Their dynamic is chef's kiss. They’re constantly bickering, learning from each other, and forming this unbreakable bond that feels so real and earned. The animation is top-notch, the fight choreography is fluid and exciting, and the story, while having its serious moments with espionage and dark conspiracies, always comes back to the relationship between these two girls. It’s the perfect mix of danger, humor, and pure, unadulterated friendship that makes you root for them every step of the way. It wasn't just action; it was about found family and finding your place in the world, and that's why it landed so high on our best anime of Summer 2022 list. It’s a show that proves you don’t need a super complex plot to be incredibly engaging; sometimes, compelling characters and a strong emotional core are all you need. Plus, Chisato's ability to dodge bullets is just legendary!

Made in Abyss: The Golden City of the Scorching Sun - A Darker, Deeper Journey

Alright, let's get serious for a second, because Made in Abyss: The Golden City of the Scorching Sun was an absolute beast and a strong contender for the best anime of Summer 2022, despite being a sequel. If you're familiar with Made in Abyss, you know it's not for the faint of heart. This season dove headfirst into the treacherous depths of the Abyss, specifically the terrifyingly beautiful Ido Front. Riko, Reg, and Nanachi's journey this time around was brutal, emotionally taxing, and utterly captivating. We saw them encounter new characters, most notably the residents of the cursed Golden City, who have undergone some truly horrific transformations due to the Abyss's curse. The storytelling here was phenomenal, delving into themes of survival, sacrifice, and the devastating consequences of humanity's relentless pursuit of knowledge and treasure. The animation and art style remained stunning, depicting the alien landscapes and grotesque creatures with incredible detail, making the Abyss feel more alive and dangerous than ever. What really set this season apart was its sheer audacity in exploring the darker aspects of its world and characters. It didn't shy away from showing the pain, the desperation, and the sheer horror that comes with exploring such a hostile environment. The character development, especially for Nanachi and their connection to Mitty, was incredibly poignant and heartbreaking. Even though it's part of a larger story, this season felt self-contained enough to be immensely satisfying, while also leaving you desperate for more. It's a prime example of how sequels can elevate a series, offering deeper lore and more intense emotional payoffs. For fans of dark fantasy and incredibly well-crafted narratives, this was an unmissable part of the best anime of Summer 2022 lineup. It's a stark reminder that beauty and horror often go hand-in-hand in the Abyss.

Call of the Night: A Vampire Romance with Style to Spare

Okay, guys, let's talk about Call of the Night. This anime was pure, unadulterated vibe. Seriously, if you were looking for something cool, stylish, and a little bit melancholic, this was it. It immediately shot up as a contender for the best anime of Summer 2022 because it just felt different. The story follows Yamori Kou, a middle schooler who's bored with his mundane life and starts wandering the streets at night. That's where he meets Nazuna Nanakusa, a mysterious and alluring vampire who invites him to experience the night with her. The premise alone is killer: a human exploring the nocturnal world with a vampire who offers him a taste of freedom and adventure, with the ultimate allure being the possibility of becoming a vampire himself. But it's the execution that makes this show shine. The art style is gorgeous, with neon-drenched cityscapes and a distinct, almost noir-inspired aesthetic. The soundtrack is an absolute banger, perfectly capturing the late-night, slightly lonely, yet exhilarating atmosphere. Kou’s journey from disillusioned kid to someone experiencing genuine wonder and excitement is incredibly compelling. Nazuna is this enigmatic, chaotic force of nature, and her interactions with Kou are filled with witty banter and a surprising amount of genuine connection. The show perfectly balances its exploration of themes like loneliness, escapism, and the search for meaning with its supernatural romance elements. It’s stylish, it’s cool, and it manages to be both incredibly chill and surprisingly emotional. You get drawn into the world of the night, the freedom it represents, and the allure of the supernatural. It’s the kind of show you can just sink into and let it wash over you, which is why it absolutely deserves its spot as one of the best anime of Summer 2022. It's proof that sometimes, a simple concept executed with incredible style and heart can be the most impactful.

Overlord IV: The Overlord Returns to Dominate

For the OGs who have been following Momonga's journey, Overlord IV was the epic return we'd all been waiting for. This season solidified its place as a top-tier contender for the best anime of Summer 2022 by continuing Ainz Ooal Gown's reign of terror and strategic brilliance. We saw Ainz, the powerful undead overlord, expand his influence and power across the New World, all while maintaining his meticulously crafted persona. The stakes were higher than ever as Ainz, now recognized as the Sorcerer King, engaged in more complex political maneuvering and direct confrontations with powerful factions. This season really focused on showcasing Ainz's intelligence and the sheer overwhelming power of Nazarick's forces. It's fascinating to watch him strategize, often overthinking situations to maintain his image, which ironically leads to even greater success. The animation quality remained consistently high, bringing the epic battles and the imposing presence of Ainz to life with stunning detail. The supporting cast of characters, from Albedo and Demiurge to the various adventurers and rulers he encounters, all played their part in making the world feel dynamic and dangerous. Overlord IV didn't just rely on brute force; it delved deeper into the sociopolitical landscape of the world Ainz now dominates, exploring the consequences of his actions and the reactions of those who oppose him. It's a masterclass in showcasing an overpowered protagonist who remains utterly compelling because of his cunning and the loyalty of his subordinates. For fans of dark fantasy, power fantasies done right, and intricate world-building, this season was everything we could have asked for and more. It’s a testament to the enduring appeal of the series and why it remains a benchmark for isekai. This continuation was a powerful reminder of why Ainz is one of anime's most iconic villains (or anti-heroes, depending on how you look at it!) and a definitive entry in the best anime of Summer 2022. It kept us on the edge of our seats, anticipating Ainz's next move and reveling in the sheer scale of his ambition.

My Dress-Up Darling: A Sweet Slice of Life and Cosplay Bliss

Okay, okay, I know My Dress-Up Darling technically started in Winter 2022, but its cultural impact and popularity spilled so heavily into the summer months that we just had to include it in any discussion about the best anime of Summer 2022. Plus, who can forget the sheer joy this show brought? It's an absolute gem focusing on Wakana Gojo, a shy high school boy who dreams of becoming a traditional kashirashira craftsman, and Marin Kitagawa, a popular, outgoing girl who secretly loves anime and cosplay. Their unlikely friendship blossoms when Marin discovers Gojo's incredible sewing skills and enlists his help to create her elaborate cosplay costumes. What makes this show so special, guys? It's the chemistry between Gojo and Marin. Gojo, who's been isolated due to his passion, slowly opens up thanks to Marin's infectious energy and acceptance. Marin, in turn, finds someone who truly understands and supports her dreams, no matter how niche they might seem. The series beautifully explores themes of self-acceptance, pursuing your passions, and the power of genuine connection. The animation is vibrant and fluid, especially when it comes to depicting the creation of the costumes and Marin's transformations into various characters. It’s incredibly satisfying to watch Gojo meticulously craft each piece, and Marin’s sheer excitement and confidence when wearing them is infectious. It’s a wholesome, feel-good anime that celebrates creativity, individuality, and the beauty of finding someone who truly