The Fall 2024 anime season has officially concluded, leaving behind a plethora of new and returning series that captivated audiences worldwide. From highly anticipated sequels to surprise hits, this season had something for every anime fan. Now that the dust has settled, it’s time to delve into the rankings and see which series emerged as the most popular and critically acclaimed.
The Titans of Fall 2024
Several anime series stood out from the crowd, garnering significant attention and praise. Bleach: Thousand-Year Blood War Part 3 – The Conflict dominated many rankings, showcasing its powerful animation and intense storyline. This continuation of the beloved Bleach series lived up to the hype, delivering a thrilling experience for long-time fans. Its sharp pacing and high production values made it a standout, solidifying its place as a top contender.
Another major success was Dandadan, a new series praised for its unique blend of sci-fi action and humor. Its stylized visuals and fast-paced narrative made it a social media sensation and a favorite among viewers. Its first season, which aired in the Fall, managed to garner significant viewership and critical acclaim, showing that it is a series to watch in the future.
Re:Zero -Starting Life in Another World- Season 3 also proved to be a strong contender, continuing its popular isekai story. The return of Subaru and Emilia was highly anticipated, and the new season did not disappoint. It consistently ranked high across multiple platforms, showcasing its continued appeal.
Top Rankings From Various Sources
Different platforms and publications have compiled their own rankings, offering a diverse look at the season’s best.
- Anime Corner conducted weekly polls, culminating in a final “Anime of the Season” poll. Their weighted system gave Bleach: Thousand-Year Blood War Part 3 – The Conflict first place with 14.25%, followed by Dan Da Dan with 9.78%, and Re:Zero -Starting Life in Another World- Season 3 with 7.03%. This ranking highlights the overall popularity and consistent performance of these titles.
- Animate Times in Japan revealed their top 10, with Ranma ½ remake at the top, followed by Dandadan and Natsume’s Book of Friends Season 7. This ranking underscores the strong appeal of both new and classic anime.
- Niconico Video & Niconico Live ranked Dandadan in first place based on views and comments, indicating its popularity among core otaku fans.
- ABEMA‘s initial speed ranking placed Orb: On the Movements of the Earth at the top for view count in its first episode, followed by Re:Zero and then The Healer Who Was Banished from the Party Actually Has Ultimate Power. This shows a different perspective, based on early viewership data.
Other Notable Series
Beyond the top three, several other anime made a significant impact:
- Blue Box, a romance/sports hybrid, was praised for its endearing central relationship and solid production. Its unique genre combination made it a pleasant viewing experience.
- Dragon Ball Daima also garnered attention as a throwback to the series’ roots. Despite not having the planet-exploding stakes of some other Dragon Ball entries, it was noted for its charm and enjoyable storyline, bringing a new spin to the classic series.
- Orb: On the Movements of the Earth was recognized for its unique premise and intriguing storytelling, making it a series that many were eager to watch. It is a historical anime about the theories of the earth.
- Ranma 1/2‘s remake was a hit, demonstrating the lasting popularity of the series. Its placement at the top of Animate Times’ list shows that nostalgia can be a powerful draw.
- Blue Lock Season 2 continued to be a popular sports anime, maintaining its fanbase.
The Power of Streaming Platforms
Streaming platforms played a significant role in the popularity of many anime series. Platforms like Crunchyroll, Netflix, and Hulu made these shows accessible to a global audience, broadening their reach and impact. The presence of certain titles on these platforms introduced anime to viewers who might otherwise have missed out. This boost in accessibility contributed to the success of many series, showcasing the power of streaming services in shaping anime viewership.
Fan Favorites and Surprise Hits
The Fall 2024 season wasn’t just about the big names. Some new series surprised viewers, gaining popularity through word of mouth and social media buzz. These surprise hits demonstrate that the anime landscape is constantly evolving, with fresh stories and unique animation styles continually emerging.
Solo Leveling: A Standout Performer
Although it did not air during the Fall 2024 season, it is worth mentioning that Solo Leveling finished the year with over 800,000 viewers on MyAnimeList, taking the top spot comfortably. This highlights how some series can dominate the year’s popularity rankings even if they aren’t part of a particular season. It is a testament to its engaging story and high-quality animation.
Conclusion
The Fall 2024 anime season was a rich and varied experience, offering a mix of highly anticipated sequels and exciting new series. Bleach: Thousand-Year Blood War Part 3 – The Conflict, Dandadan, and Re:Zero -Starting Life in Another World- Season 3 emerged as the top contenders, but numerous other series also captivated audiences. The season’s success reflects the anime industry’s continued growth and the increasing global popularity of Japanese animation. Whether you prefer action-packed shonen, heartwarming romance, or thought-provoking dramas, Fall 2024 had something for every anime fan. As the year closes and the new season begins, it’s worth taking time to reflect on the shows that made the Fall so memorable, and to look ahead to what new stories and characters the future will bring.
