Spring Anime 2022: The Ultimate Tier List Ranking!
Hey anime fans! Ready to dive into the best of Spring 2022? We're breaking down all the hits and misses with our ultimate tier list. Get ready for some serious opinions, maybe some surprises, and definitely some shows you'll want to add to your watchlist immediately! So, grab your snacks, settle in, and let’s rank some anime!
What is a Tier List and Why Should You Care?
Okay, for those who might be new to the concept, a tier list is essentially a way of ranking things – in our case, anime – into different categories based on their overall quality. These categories, or tiers, usually range from the absolute best (think god-tier masterpieces) to the ones you might want to skip (sorry, but someone has to say it!). Why should you care? Well, with so much anime coming out each season, it's tough to know where to invest your time. A tier list can give you a quick and easy guide to what's hot and what's not, helping you discover your next favorite show without wasting hours on something mediocre. Plus, it’s fun to see if your opinions line up with everyone else's – and to argue about the ones that don’t! This is all just opinion, of course! There’s no definitive, objective truth when it comes to art, but it’s fun to engage and debate about what makes certain shows rise to the top. So, with all of that said, a Tier List serves as a useful guide to determine what to watch, and it helps one to dive into a series which many others find to be a worthwhile investment. Beyond helping you choose what to watch, tier lists also spark discussions about animation quality, plot depth, character development, and overall impact. By breaking down these elements, we can get a clearer picture of what makes a show truly stand out. Moreover, creating and sharing tier lists encourages a sense of community among anime fans. It's a great way to connect with others who share your passion, discover new perspectives, and even challenge your own preconceptions about certain series. Don't forget that personal taste plays a significant role in how we perceive anime, and that's perfectly okay! Tier lists provide a framework for expressing our opinions while respecting the diverse preferences within the anime community. They help us navigate the vast world of anime, making it easier to find shows we'll genuinely enjoy. So, whether you're a seasoned anime veteran or a curious newcomer, a tier list can be an invaluable tool for exploring and appreciating the art of Japanese animation. Now that we’ve covered the basics, let's dive into the exciting part – ranking the Spring 2022 anime! Get ready to discover hidden gems, revisit old favorites, and maybe even find some new shows to add to your watchlist. The Spring 2022 anime season was packed with a diverse range of genres and styles, offering something for every type of anime fan. From heartwarming slice-of-life stories to intense action-packed adventures, there was no shortage of captivating content to enjoy. Join us as we break down the season's highlights and rank them according to their overall quality and impact.
Our Tier List Criteria
Before we jump into the rankings, let's quickly go over the criteria we used to evaluate each anime. We considered several factors to ensure a fair and balanced assessment. First up is story and plot. Was the narrative engaging? Did it have a compelling hook? Were there plot holes or inconsistencies that detracted from the overall experience? A strong story is the backbone of any great anime, and we paid close attention to how well each series crafted its narrative. Next, we looked at character development. Were the characters relatable and well-developed? Did they undergo meaningful growth throughout the series? Characters are the heart and soul of any story, and their evolution can make or break an anime. We also assessed the animation quality. Was the art style visually appealing? Were the action sequences fluid and dynamic? High-quality animation can elevate an anime to new heights, immersing viewers in its world and enhancing their emotional connection to the story. Sound design and music were also important factors. Did the soundtrack complement the visuals and enhance the emotional impact of key scenes? Did the sound effects create a sense of realism and immersion? The audio elements of an anime can greatly enhance the overall viewing experience. Finally, we considered the overall enjoyment factor. Did the anime leave a lasting impression? Did it make us laugh, cry, or think? Did it offer something unique and memorable? Ultimately, anime is about entertainment, and we wanted to highlight the shows that resonated with us the most. By taking all of these factors into account, we aimed to create a tier list that is both informative and insightful, providing you with a comprehensive guide to the best of Spring 2022 anime. So, without further ado, let's dive into the rankings and discover which shows made the cut!
The Spring 2022 Anime Tier List
Alright, let's get to the good stuff! Here’s our Spring 2022 anime tier list, broken down into categories. Remember, this is just our opinion, so feel free to disagree (respectfully, of course!).
S-Tier: Masterpieces
These are the anime that blew us away. They excelled in almost every aspect and left a lasting impression. They are the crème de la crème of Spring 2022.
-
Spy x Family: Seriously, what's not to love? This show had it all: amazing animation, hilarious comedy, and a heartwarming story about a fake family becoming a real one. Anya is a global treasure, and the action sequences were top-notch. A must-watch, no question.
Spy x Family dominated the Spring 2022 anime season, and for good reason. The series masterfully blends elements of espionage, comedy, and family drama, creating a unique and captivating viewing experience. The animation quality is consistently high, with fluid action sequences and expressive character designs. The story follows the Forger family, each member concealing their true identity. Loid Forger, a spy, must create a fake family to infiltrate a prestigious school. Anya, his adopted daughter, is a telepath who knows everyone's secrets. Yor Briar, the wife, is a skilled assassin. Together, they navigate the challenges of family life while trying to keep their true identities hidden. The humor in Spy x Family is top-notch, with plenty of slapstick and witty banter. Anya's antics are particularly hilarious, and her interactions with Loid and Yor are both heartwarming and comedic. The action sequences are also well-choreographed and exciting, adding an extra layer of entertainment to the series. But beyond the humor and action, Spy x Family also explores themes of family, identity, and belonging. The Forgers may be a fake family, but they gradually develop genuine bonds of affection and loyalty. The series reminds us that family is not always about blood relations, but about the people who care for us and support us. Overall, Spy x Family is a masterpiece of the Spring 2022 anime season. It's a show that will make you laugh, cry, and leave you wanting more. If you haven't already, be sure to check it out!
A-Tier: Excellent
These anime were fantastic and highly enjoyable, with only a few minor flaws holding them back from the top tier.
-
Kaguya-sama: Love Is War - Ultra Romantic: The third season of Kaguya-sama continued the hilarious and clever battle of wits between Kaguya and Shirogane. The animation was gorgeous, and the humor was as sharp as ever. Some may argue this is S-Tier, and it's a fair point!
Kaguya-sama: Love Is War - Ultra Romantic continues the saga of Miyuki Shirogane and Kaguya Shinomiya, two brilliant and prideful students who are both deeply in love with each other but refuse to confess their feelings. The third season takes the romantic tension to new heights, with even more elaborate schemes and hilarious misunderstandings. The animation quality remains consistently high, with vibrant colors and expressive character designs. The humor is as sharp and witty as ever, with plenty of pop culture references and meta-commentary. But beyond the humor and romance, Kaguya-sama also explores themes of pride, vulnerability, and the challenges of communication. Shirogane and Kaguya's refusal to be honest with each other often leads to comical situations, but it also highlights the importance of being open and vulnerable in relationships. The series reminds us that love is not always about grand gestures, but about the small moments of connection and understanding. The supporting characters also get their time to shine in Ultra Romantic, with Yu Ishigami and Miko Iino both undergoing significant character development. Ishigami's struggles with his past and his growing feelings for Tsubame Koyasu provide a poignant counterpoint to the main romance, while Iino's awkwardness and her attempts to assert herself as a student council member add plenty of comedic moments. Overall, Kaguya-sama: Love Is War - Ultra Romantic is an excellent addition to the series. It's a show that will make you laugh, cry, and root for the characters as they navigate the challenges of love and relationships. If you're a fan of romantic comedies, this is a must-watch.
-
Ya Boy Kongming!: A wild premise executed perfectly! Zhuge Liang (Kongming), the legendary strategist from the Three Kingdoms period, is reincarnated in modern-day Tokyo and becomes a manager for an aspiring singer. The music was catchy, the characters were charming, and the blend of historical strategy with modern-day music was surprisingly brilliant.
Ya Boy Kongming! is a unique and entertaining anime that blends historical strategy with modern-day music. The series follows Zhuge Liang (Kongming), the legendary strategist from the Three Kingdoms period, who is reincarnated in modern-day Tokyo. Determined to use his strategic genius to help an aspiring singer named Eiko Tsukimi achieve her dreams, Kongming becomes her manager and devises elaborate plans to promote her music. The animation quality is vibrant and dynamic, with eye-catching visuals that capture the energy of the Tokyo music scene. The music is catchy and infectious, with a mix of J-pop and traditional Chinese melodies. The humor is clever and witty, with plenty of references to historical events and strategic concepts. But beyond the humor and music, Ya Boy Kongming! also explores themes of perseverance, creativity, and the power of collaboration. Kongming's unwavering belief in Eiko's talent and his dedication to helping her succeed are inspiring, while Eiko's determination to pursue her dreams despite the challenges she faces is equally admirable. The series reminds us that success is not always about individual talent, but about the ability to work together and support each other. The supporting characters are also well-developed, with each bringing their unique talents and perspectives to the table. Kabetaijin, a former rapper, provides valuable insights into the music industry, while Nanami Kuon, a talented singer, offers Eiko guidance and support. Overall, Ya Boy Kongming! is an excellent anime that offers a refreshing and unique take on the music genre. It's a show that will make you laugh, dance, and leave you feeling inspired. If you're looking for something different, this is a must-watch.
B-Tier: Good
Solid anime that were enjoyable but had some noticeable flaws or didn't quite reach their full potential.
-
Summer Time Rendering: A time-loop mystery with some cool twists and turns. The animation was solid, and the suspense was well-maintained. However, the plot got a little convoluted towards the end, and some characters felt underdeveloped.
Summer Time Rendering is a gripping time-loop mystery anime that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. The series follows Shinpei Ajiro, who returns to his hometown of Hitogashima Island after the death of his childhood friend, Ushio Kofune. As he investigates her death, he discovers a dark secret lurking beneath the surface of the island: shadowy figures that resemble the island's inhabitants. Trapped in a time loop, Shinpei must unravel the mystery of the shadows and save his friends from a deadly fate. The animation quality is excellent, with detailed backgrounds and fluid action sequences. The suspense is well-maintained, with plenty of twists and turns that keep viewers guessing. The series explores themes of loss, grief, and the importance of protecting those we love. Shinpei's determination to save Ushio and his friends drives the narrative forward, while the shadowy figures add an element of horror and intrigue. However, the plot can get a little convoluted towards the end, with a lot of information to keep track of. Some characters also feel underdeveloped, particularly the supporting cast. Despite these flaws, Summer Time Rendering is still a solid anime that offers a thrilling and suspenseful viewing experience. The time-loop mechanic is well-executed, and the mystery surrounding the shadows is captivating. If you're a fan of mystery and thriller anime, this is worth checking out.
-
Tomodachi Game: A psychological thriller where a group of friends are put through twisted games to test their bonds and reveal their true nature. The premise was intriguing, but the execution was a bit uneven. Some games were more compelling than others, and the constant betrayals could get a little exhausting.
Tomodachi Game is a psychological thriller anime that explores the dark side of friendship. The series follows Yuichi Katagiri and his group of friends, who are tricked into participating in a series of twisted games designed to test their bonds and reveal their true nature. As the games progress, the friends are forced to betray each other and confront their deepest secrets. The premise of Tomodachi Game is intriguing, and the series does a good job of creating a sense of tension and suspense. The games are often brutal and manipulative, forcing the characters to make difficult choices that have lasting consequences. The series explores themes of trust, betrayal, and the true meaning of friendship. However, the execution of Tomodachi Game is a bit uneven. Some games are more compelling than others, and the constant betrayals can get a little exhausting. The characters can also be frustrating at times, as they often make questionable decisions that seem out of character. Despite these flaws, Tomodachi Game is still a worthwhile watch for fans of psychological thrillers. The series offers a dark and twisted look at friendship, and the games are often inventive and suspenseful. If you're looking for something that will keep you on the edge of your seat, this is worth checking out.
C-Tier: Average
These anime were okay but didn't stand out in any particular way. They were watchable but forgettable.
-
Shikimori's Not Just a Cutie: A sweet and fluffy romance about a cute but also cool and protective girlfriend. It was pleasant to watch, but the plot was fairly generic, and the characters lacked depth. Good for a relaxing watch, but not much substance.
Shikimori's Not Just a Cutie is a sweet and fluffy romance anime that offers a lighthearted and enjoyable viewing experience. The series follows Yu Izumi, a clumsy and unlucky high school student, and his girlfriend, Shikimori, who is not only cute but also incredibly cool and protective. As they navigate the ups and downs of high school life, their relationship blossoms and they learn to support each other. The animation quality is bright and cheerful, with vibrant colors and expressive character designs. The romance is sweet and innocent, with plenty of heartwarming moments that will make you smile. The series is easy to watch and doesn't require much investment, making it perfect for a relaxing evening. However, the plot of Shikimori's Not Just a Cutie is fairly generic, and the characters lack depth. The series doesn't offer much in the way of conflict or drama, and the overall story is predictable. Despite these flaws, Shikimori's Not Just a Cutie is still a pleasant anime to watch if you're looking for something light and fluffy. The romance is cute, the characters are likable, and the animation is visually appealing. If you're a fan of slice-of-life romance anime, this is worth checking out.
D-Tier: Disappointing
These anime had potential but ultimately failed to deliver. They had significant flaws that made them difficult to enjoy.
-
Heroine Tarumono! ~Kiraware Heroine to Naisho no Oshigoto~: The premise of a girl becoming a manager for a popular idol group was interesting, but the execution was bland and uninspired. The characters were one-dimensional, and the plot was predictable.
Heroine Tarumono! ~Kiraware Heroine to Naisho no Oshigoto~ had an interesting premise, but unfortunately, it failed to deliver on its potential. The series follows Hiyori Suzumi, a high school girl who becomes a manager for a popular idol group while trying to keep her job a secret from her classmates. The idea of a girl juggling a normal high school life with the glamorous world of idols had promise, but the execution was bland and uninspired. The characters in Heroine Tarumono! were one-dimensional and lacked depth. Hiyori was a generic protagonist with no distinguishing features, and the idol group members were equally forgettable. The plot was predictable and lacked any real conflict or drama. The series failed to explore the challenges and rewards of managing an idol group, and the overall story felt shallow and unfulfilling. The animation quality was also underwhelming, with stiff character movements and uninspired backgrounds. Overall, Heroine Tarumono! was a disappointing anime that failed to live up to its potential. The premise was interesting, but the execution was lacking in every way. If you're looking for a compelling idol anime, there are much better options out there.
Final Thoughts
So, there you have it – our ultimate Spring 2022 anime tier list! Hopefully, this guide has helped you discover some new shows to watch or given you some food for thought about the ones you've already seen. Remember, anime is subjective, so don't be afraid to form your own opinions and explore different genres. Happy watching, guys! And don't forget to let us know your own tier list in the comments below. We’re always up for a good anime debate!