Best Anime 2018 The Must-Watch Anime Series of 2018

The year 2018 was one of the most exciting periods for anime fans, delivering a wide range of memorable series across action, fantasy, drama, comedy, romance, and science best anime 2018. From emotional stories such as Violet Evergarden to intense titles like Devilman Crybaby and MEGALO BOX, there was something for almost every type of viewer.

Several of these shows were later recognized by the Crunchyroll Anime Awards, with Devilman Crybaby ultimately winning Anime of the Year for anime released in 2018.

If you are searching for the best anime 2018 had to offer, the following titles are excellent places to start.

1. Devilman Crybaby

Devilman Crybaby is one of the most distinctive anime series of 2018. Created by Science SARU and directed by Masaaki Yuasa, the series combines supernatural horror, action, psychological drama, and mature themes.

The story follows Akira Fudo after he becomes involved with demons and discovers that humanity is facing a terrifying threat. Its unconventional visual style and emotionally heavy storytelling helped it stand apart from more traditional anime productions.

The series was especially successful during the 2019 Crunchyroll Anime Awards, where it won Anime of the Year. It was also nominated in several other categories, including Best Animation and Best Director.

2. Violet Evergarden

For viewers looking for beautiful animation and emotional storytelling, Violet Evergarden is one of the strongest choices from 2018.

The story centers on Violet, a former soldier who begins working as an Auto Memory Doll, writing letters for people who struggle to express their feelings. As she meets different clients, Violet gradually begins to understand emotions and the meaning behind the words she once heard from someone important to her.

Kyoto Animation’s detailed artwork and carefully crafted character animation made the series visually impressive. Violet Evergarden also won the Crunchyroll Anime Award for Best Animation among the 2018 releases.

3. A Place Further Than the Universe

A Place Further Than the Universe is an inspiring adventure anime about four high-school girls who decide to travel toward Antarctica.

Rather than relying on supernatural powers or large-scale battles, the series focuses on friendship, personal growth, determination, and the courage to pursue an unusual dream. The characters each have their own reasons for joining the journey, giving the story emotional depth.

It was also one of the six Anime of the Year nominees at the 2019 Crunchyroll Anime Awards, demonstrating how strongly it was regarded among the standout anime of 2018.

4. MEGALOBOX

Fans who enjoy sports, boxing, and futuristic settings should consider MEGALOBOX.

The story follows a fighter known as Junk Dog, who enters the dangerous world of Megaloboxing, where competitors use mechanical equipment to enhance their fighting abilities. His ambition to challenge the champion creates an exciting underdog story.

The anime combines a retro visual identity with futuristic technology and hard-hitting boxing action. MEGALOBOX was also nominated for Anime of the Year and received the most nominations at the third Crunchyroll Anime Awards.

5. My Hero Academia Season 3

My Hero Academia Season 3 continued the popular superhero story with bigger conflicts, stronger villains, and major character development.

The season includes important events involving Izuku Midoriya, All Might, the League of Villains, and other students of U.A. High School. Its combination of superhero action, emotional character moments, and school-life elements helped maintain the series’ popularity.

The season was nominated for several Crunchyroll Anime Awards categories, including Anime of the Year and Best Animation.

6. Zombie Land Saga

Zombie Land Saga took a completely different approach to the zombie genre. Instead of focusing primarily on horror, the series mixes comedy, music, supernatural elements, and idol culture.

The story follows a group of girls who are unexpectedly brought back to life and recruited into an unusual idol group. The resulting situations range from hilarious to surprisingly emotional.

Its unusual concept helped it earn an Anime of the Year nomination alongside titles such as Devilman Crybaby, Violet Evergarden, and MEGALOBOX.

7. Hinamatsuri

Hinamatsuri is an excellent option for viewers who prefer comedy with heartfelt moments.

The story begins when a mysterious girl with powerful psychic abilities suddenly appears in the apartment of a yakuza member named Nitta. Their strange relationship creates plenty of comedic situations, but the series gradually introduces more emotional stories involving friendship, family, and growing up.

The balance between absurd humor and surprisingly touching character moments made Hinamatsuri one of the notable comedy anime of 2018.

8. Rascal Does Not Dream of Bunny Girl Senpai

Despite its unusual title, Rascal Does Not Dream of Bunny Girl Senpai is more than a simple romantic comedy.

The story follows Sakuta Azusagawa, who encounters Mai Sakurajima, a famous actress who believes people are somehow unable to notice her. The series uses supernatural concepts to explore loneliness, adolescence, relationships, and social pressure.

Its combination of romance, mystery, drama, and supernatural storytelling helped it become one of the memorable anime series of 2018. Sakuta and Mai were also among the notable nominees and characters represented in the 2018 Anime Awards.

9. That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime

That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime became a major title in the isekai genre.

The story follows Satoru Mikami, who dies and is reincarnated in another world as a powerful slime named Rimuru Tempest. Rather than simply focusing on fighting, Rimuru begins building a community and forming relationships with different races and characters.

The anime became particularly popular because it combines fantasy adventure, comedy, world-building, and action. Rimuru was also selected as a nominee for Best Protagonist at the 2019 Crunchyroll Anime Awards.

Why Was 2018 Such a Strong Year for Anime?

One reason 2018 stands out is the variety of genres represented. Viewers could choose from emotional drama, supernatural horror, sports action, fantasy adventure, comedy, romance, and science fiction.

The 2019 Crunchyroll Anime Awards reflected this diversity. The Anime of the Year nominees included Devilman Crybaby, A Place Further Than the Universe, Hinamatsuri, MEGALOBOX, Violet Evergarden, and Zombie Land Saga.

This range makes searching for the best anime of 2018 somewhat subjective. The ideal choice depends heavily on the type of story and experience a viewer wants.

Best Anime 2018 by Genre

If you want to narrow the list according to genre, these are strong starting points:

• Best supernatural/horror: Devilman Crybaby
• Best emotional drama: Violet Evergarden
• Best adventure: A Place Further Than the Universe
• Best sports anime: MEGALOBOX
• Best superhero anime: My Hero Academia Season 3
• Best comedy: Hinamatsuri
• Best fantasy/isekai: That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime
• Best romance/supernatural: Rascal Does Not Dream of Bunny Girl Senpai
• Best unusual comedy/music concept: Zombie Land Saga

FAQs About the Best Anime 2018

What was the best anime of 2018?

There is no single universally agreed choice, but Devilman Crybaby is one of the strongest answers because it won Anime of the Year at the third Crunchyroll Anime Awards.

Which 2018 anime has the best animation?

Violet Evergarden is an excellent choice. It won the


Anime Award for Best Animation for the 2018 anime awards cycle.

Is MEGALOBOX worth watching?

Yes. MEGALOBOX is particularly appealing if you enjoy boxing, underdog stories, futuristic settings, and stylish animation.

Is Violet Evergarden sad?

Violet Evergarden contains many emotional and sometimes heartbreaking stories. However, its central themes also involve healing, relationships, communication, and personal growth.

What is a good 2018 anime for beginners?

My Hero Academia Season 3 can be a good choice for viewers already familiar with the earlier seasons. For someone completely new to anime, a standalone series such as Violet Evergarden may be easier to approach.

Which 2018 anime is best for comedy?

Hinamatsuri is a strong option because it combines absurd comedy with meaningful character development and emotional moments.

Which 2018 anime is best for fantasy fans?

That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime is a popular choice for fantasy and isekai fans, especially those who enjoy world-building and powerful protagonists.

Why is 2018 considered an important anime year?

2018 produced a particularly diverse group of acclaimed anime. Its major releases included Devilman Crybaby, Violet Evergarden, MEGALOBOX, A Place Further Than the Universe, Hinamatsuri, and Zombie Land Saga, giving viewers very different styles and genres to explore.

Conclusion

The best anime 2018 lineup remains impressive because the year offered something for almost every kind of anime fan. Devilman Crybaby delivered dark supernatural drama, Violet Evergarden focused on emotion and visual beauty, MEGALOBOX brought powerful sports action, and A Place Further Than the Universe offered an inspiring adventure.