As the global anime fanbase continues to expand, 2024 is shaping up to be a year of exciting new releases and returning fan-favorites. From fresh adaptations of popular manga series to original works and sequels, anime studios in Japan are prepared to keep us glued to our screens. Here’s a look at some of the most anticipated anime series scheduled for release in 2024, including highlights of what to expect in terms of story, animation, and genre.
1. Chainsaw Man - Season 2
Following the massive success of Chainsaw Man’s first season, fans were left buzzing with questions and high expectations for season two. Adapted from Tatsuki Fujimoto's popular manga, Chainsaw Man follows Denji, a young man who merges with his pet devil dog, Pochita, to become Chainsaw Man, a devil hunter with chainsaws for arms. Season one introduced viewers to a dark, gory world filled with memorable characters, each driven by their desires. Season two promises to dive deeper into Denji's journey as he faces increasingly dangerous devils and navigates complex relationships, including the growing mystery surrounding Makima. Expect MAPPA to deliver top-tier animation and even more intense fight scenes this season.
2. Spy x Family - Season 3
After two successful seasons, Spy x Family is set to return for a third installment in 2024. The anime follows the unusual Forger family, which consists of a spy father (Twilight), an assassin mother (Yor), and their telepathic daughter (Anya). In the previous seasons, viewers were introduced to a unique blend of action, comedy, and heartwarming moments as the Forger family worked together to prevent an impending war. Season three is expected to explore more of Anya’s school life, Yor’s missions, and Twilight’s challenging spy work, all while keeping up the delightful family dynamic that has made this series so beloved.
3. Attack on Titan: The Final Season Part 4
Few series have captured the anime community like Attack on Titan. The journey, which began over a decade ago, is finally coming to its dramatic conclusion in 2024. This final part will resolve the longstanding conflict between the Eldians and Marleyans, diving into the moral complexities and human emotions that have made Attack on Titan a modern masterpiece. With the stakes at their highest, Eren Yeager and his friends face off in a final confrontation that could change their world forever. Expect stunning visuals, intense battles, and a narrative that challenges the nature of freedom, morality, and power.
4. Solo Leveling
Based on the popular Korean webtoon by Chugong, Solo Leveling has been eagerly awaited by fans worldwide. Set in a world where portals to dungeons appear, unleashing monsters that only hunters can fight, Solo Leveling follows the story of Sung Jin-Woo, a hunter initially deemed the weakest in his guild. However, after a near-death experience in a dungeon, he gains the mysterious ability to level up, allowing him to rapidly increase his power. A-1 Pictures is bringing this webtoon to life, and fans are excited to see the stunning action sequences and supernatural elements rendered in high-quality animation. With its unique premise and powerful protagonist, Solo Leveling is set to be one of 2024’s most popular new releases.
5. Jujutsu Kaisen - Shibuya Incident Arc
Jujutsu Kaisen returns with one of the most anticipated arcs in the series: the Shibuya Incident. Following the harrowing events of season one and Jujutsu Kaisen 0, season two delves into a storyline filled with intense battles, dramatic plot twists, and heartbreaking moments. The Shibuya Incident arc is highly regarded in the manga for its high stakes, emotional weight, and stunning fights. This season will test Yuji Itadori and his friends as they face powerful curses and are forced to confront the true horrors of the jujutsu world. Fans can expect MAPPA’s animation team to deliver some of the most visually impressive and emotionally impactful episodes in anime.
6. Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind (Series Adaptation)
In a surprise announcement, Studio Ghibli has decided to revisit one of its classic films, Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind, as a full anime series in 2024. The original film, directed by Hayao Miyazaki in 1984, became a cornerstone of environmental and anti-war themes in anime. The series adaptation aims to expand on the world of Nausicaä, a young princess navigating a post-apocalyptic world filled with toxic forests and massive insect creatures. This adaptation promises to delve deeper into the manga’s storyline, offering fans more of the stunning landscapes, compelling characters, and nuanced themes that Ghibli is known for.
7. My Hero Academia - Season 7
My Hero Academia returns for its seventh season, and fans are eager to see how the story will unfold after the intense battles in season six. With the stakes higher than ever and tensions between heroes and villains reaching their peak, this season is set to explore more character growth and delve into some darker themes. As Deku and his classmates face even more powerful adversaries, they will need to push their abilities to new limits. Fans can look forward to spectacular fights, emotional development, and high-stakes moments that highlight the heroes’ dedication and courage.
8. Blue Lock - Season 2
Soccer fans and anime enthusiasts alike were thrilled by Blue Lock’s first season, which introduced a unique twist to the sports anime genre. Blue Lock follows a group of strikers competing in a rigorous program designed to create the ultimate forward for Japan’s national soccer team. Season two will continue the intense, high-stakes competition, where players’ egos and ambitions clash. With character-driven storytelling and thrilling matches, Blue Lock has resonated with viewers, and season two promises even more fierce confrontations and dramatic plot twists.
9. Yasuke - Season 2
Netflix’s original anime Yasuke, which follows the story of Japan’s first Black samurai, returns for a second season. While season one took creative liberties, blending history with supernatural elements, season two is expected to deepen Yasuke's journey. The anime mixes action, history, and fantasy, with rich visuals that bring feudal Japan to life. Season two will likely introduce new characters and challenges as Yasuke faces his own inner struggles while defending those who cannot defend themselves.
10. Rurouni Kenshin (Reboot)
Rurouni Kenshin has returned with a reboot that reimagines the original 1996 series for a new generation. This anime tells the story of Kenshin Himura, a former assassin known as Battosai, who wanders Japan seeking redemption after renouncing violence. Fans of the original series and newcomers alike are looking forward to seeing Kenshin’s iconic swordsmanship and emotional journey in this reboot. With updated animation techniques and a more faithful adaptation of the manga, Rurouni Kenshin is a must-watch for anyone interested in samurai tales with rich historical contexts and themes of redemption.
11. Trigun Stampede - Season 2
The Trigun reboot, Trigun Stampede, brought a fresh take on the classic space western anime in 2023. As season two arrives in 2024, fans of Vash the Stampede are ready for more of his intergalactic adventures and moral dilemmas. This reboot explores Vash’s background and the mysteries surrounding his origin, adding a new layer of depth to the character. Season two is expected to maintain the series’ philosophical themes and adrenaline-filled action sequences, making it a must-watch for both newcomers and long-time fans.
Conclusion
2024 promises to be an extraordinary year for anime, with a mix of new adaptations, sequels, reboots, and original stories. From the gritty depths of Chainsaw Man and the action-packed arcs of Jujutsu Kaisen to the family warmth of Spy x Family, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re a fan of supernatural thrillers, action-packed shounen, or heartwarming tales, these upcoming releases will keep anime fans engaged all year long. Grab your popcorn, mark your calendars, and get ready for an unforgettable year in anime!
