Respawn & Reload
Otaku Thoughts from Boss Fights to Binge Nights10 Legendary Anime Masterpieces from Studio BONES That You Need to Watch
Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood
Edward and Alphonse Elric are two brothers who attempt the forbidden act of human transmutation in a desperate bid to bring their mother back to life. The ritual goes horribly wrong—Edward loses his leg, and Alphonse loses his entire body. In a final act of sacrifice, Edward trades his arm to affix Alphonse’s soul to a suit of armor. The brothers then embark on a journey to find the legendary Philosopher’s Stone in hopes of restoring their bodies. Along the way, they uncover dark state secrets and the terrifying truths behind the stone itself.
A Relentless Pursuit of Truth and Redemption
Though an older series, its gritty art, dynamic action sequences, deep world-building, and unforgettable characters make it a timeless classic. The emotional resonance is intense—bittersweet and profound. With a soundtrack by Michiru Ōshima and an opening that pierces the soul, this anime leaves a lasting impact. A masterpiece in every sense.
Ouran High School Host Club
Haruhi Fujioka, a bright student from a humble background, earns a scholarship to the elite Ouran Academy. One day, she stumbles into the Host Club—a group of attractive boys who entertain female students—and accidentally breaks an expensive vase. To pay off her debt, Haruhi joins the club, hiding the fact that she’s actually a girl. Thus begins her chaotic, cross-dressing high school life with six eccentric boys.
A sparkling rom-com classic. The concept isn’t new—a school club and one female lead—but this series makes everything feel fresh and heartwarming. The humor is sharp, the art is polished (especially for a 2006 anime), and the characters are charming to the core. It’s quirky, hilarious, and heartfelt. Haruhi is still one of the most iconic female leads—stylish even in a boys’ uniform!
Mob Psycho 100
Meet Shigeo “Mob” Kageyama—an awkward, unremarkable middle schooler who’s actually an unbelievably powerful psychic. After an accident in childhood where he hurt his younger brother, Mob suppresses his abilities. But when his emotions hit 100%, all hell breaks loose.
The contrast between Mob’s dull personality and his insane powers is gripping. Based on the manga by ONE (of One Punch Man fame), the anime retains the unique art style, but enhances it with incredible animation, humor, and heart. Every episode is a wild emotional ride. Pure genius.
Eureka Seven
Renton, the son of a legendary hero, dreams of joining a sky-surfing rebel group called Gekkostate. His life changes forever when he meets Eureka, a mysterious girl pursued by the military. His decision to help her sets him on a path of danger, growth, and love.
This isn’t your average mecha show. It’s a coming-of-age story wrapped in sci-fi. Renton and Eureka’s evolving relationship is moving and beautifully handled. The series explores love, sacrifice, and what it truly means to grow up. A hidden gem for romantics and idealists.
Bungou Stray Dogs
After being kicked out of his orphanage, Atsushi Nakajima is saved by a strange man named Dazai, a member of the Armed Detective Agency. Together, they investigate a mysterious tiger plaguing the city. What follows is a wild blend of supernatural powers, literary allusions, and intense battles.
The show creatively blends classic literature with stylish action. The animation is top-tier, and the voice cast is phenomenal. From OP to ED, everything is polished and purposeful. A visual and intellectual feast.
Darker than Black
A mysterious phenomenon creates a wall in Tokyo called Hell’s Gate, and with it, the rise of superpowered humans called Contractors. These individuals wield incredible abilities—but at a steep personal cost. Hei, a mysterious operative, searches for his missing sister and the truth behind the Gate, all while being labeled the “Black Reaper.”
A dark, cerebral thriller with philosophical depth. What does it mean to sacrifice humanity for power? With noir-style ambiance, haunting music (shoutout to Tsuki Akari), and layered characters, this 2007 classic still resonates.
Tokyo Magnitude 8.0
Middle schooler Mirai and her little brother Yuuki are visiting a robot exhibition when a devastating earthquake strikes Tokyo. On their journey home, they’re joined by motorcyclist Mari, and the trio must navigate the ruins of a collapsing city.
This underrated anime feels like a heartfelt documentary. It captures the fear, love, and raw emotion of disaster. Mirai’s character growth from a rebellious teen to a responsible sister is portrayed with subtlety and grace. Every scene is hand-drawn with realistic detail. An emotional journey worth every minute.
Noragami
Yato is a minor deity with no shrine, taking odd jobs for 5 yen just to get by. He meets Hiyori, a schoolgirl who becomes spiritually unstable after saving him from an accident. Together, they face off against phantoms and divine politics in a world where gods are just trying to get by.
A unique blend of fantasy, action, and humor, Noragami critiques modern work culture through divine metaphors. Yato’s comedic charm and Hiyori’s strength make them an unforgettable duo. The art is crisp, and the soundtrack by Hiroyuki Sawano adds emotional weight.
Blood Blockade Battlefront
Set in the surreal city of Hellsalem’s Lot—where a dimensional rift has opened, merging humans and monsters—this action-packed anime follows Leo, a boy with the “All-Seeing Eyes of the Gods,” as he joins a secret society fighting crime and chaos.
A thrilling mix of sci-fi, fantasy, and detective noir. Its stylish visuals, offbeat humor, and explosive fight scenes keep you hooked. Leo’s journey from an ordinary boy to a hero is moving and inspiring. This one’s a chaotic, beautiful mess—in the best way.