Genre: Supernatural, Romance, Slice of Life
Where to start: Season 1, Episode 1
Tohru Honda is a kind-hearted orphan living in a tent in the woods. She is discovered by the mysterious Sohma family, who have a curse: thirteen of them are possessed by the animals of the Chinese Zodiac. When hugged by the opposite sex, they turn into their animal form. Genre: Supernatural, Romance, Slice of Life Where to
Why it’s popular: The 2019 version is a complete adaptation of the manga, unlike the 2001 version. It starts as a quirky comedy and slowly reveals layers of parental abuse, trauma, and healing. It is the gold standard for Shoujo anime. Status: Ongoing Why it’s popular: This is the
Recommendation: The manga is a classic, but the 2019 anime is superior in pacing and emotional depth. Genre: Supernatural, Romance, Slice of Life Where to
Status: Ongoing Why it’s popular: This is the current king of "Dark Shonen." With fluid animation by Studio MAPPA and a power system (Cursed Energy) that rivals Naruto’s Chakra, Jujutsu Kaisen delivers non-stop thrills. The Recommendation: Watch Season 1 and the Hidden Inventory arc (Season 2). Then, switch to the manga. The upcoming "Culling Game" arc is chaotic, brutal, and constantly trending on social media.
Not every popular series has to be about punching. Some of the highest-rated anime on MyAnimeList will destroy your heart.