Since the advent of anime, it has grown into a vast and significant market. Anime is a medium consisting of every imaginable genre for its colossal fan base. Whether you are a fan of action, horror, or romance, there is always a show for everyone.
Yet, mixed within the generic themed anime, there are shows known as the ‘hidden gem’. Indeed, these are anime that provide stimulating effects for its audiences. If you are ready to change your life forever by watching anime, then prepare yourself.
Because today, I will be going over the list of the 5 Must-Watch Anime Containing Meaningful Life Messages. Let’s begin!
5. NHK ni Youkoso!
Anime Synopsis:
Tatsuhiro Satou was a 22 years old college dropout who struggled to venture outdoors. Furthermore, he believed that the work of an evil organization named NHK was behind his shut-in NEET life.
After Satou’s fateful encounter with Misaki, a mysterious girl decided to help him escape. His Hikikomori lifestyle, life for Satou was never quite the same.
” Never Be Afraid To Try Something New “
Anime Life Message:
NHK ni Youkoso is a unique anime that presents some of the darkest and most profound themes possible to its viewers. Similar to some issues of modern society, the anime provides an insight into life as a shut-in NEET.
Why do these people have no motivation in life? Were there particular reasons for their fear of everyday social interactions? Finally, NHK ni Youkoso promised to bring a meaningful message to all young people who have watched the show.
One does not have to be a Hikikomori or shut-in to gain the benefits of the show. Life sometimes can seem somewhat routinely and undeniably dull. NHK ni Youkoso will show viewers how to expand their horizons and go beyond their limits!!
4. Clannad: After Story
Anime Synopsis:
Following the previous events of Clannad, Tomoya Okazaki and Nagisa Furukawa were finally married. However, their initial ‘honeymoon’ phase might last. The couple knew there were many challenges and difficulties to overcome.
” Be Strong When Things Fall Apart “
Anime Life Message:
As an emotional roller coaster, Clannad: After Story essentially taught viewers to appreciate kindness and good deeds. Despite going through life challenges. Tomoya tried his best to fulfill the needs of his loved ones.
As a husband and a father, he must adapt to new and difficult emotions without being overwhelmed. As the viewer, we see the characters struggled and failed. But, we never see them give up.
The series urges its viewers to remain challenging. Through spectacular character development no matter what life throws at them. Really, what could be a more powerful and meaningful message?
3. Psycho-Pass
Anime Synopsis:
In the 22nd century, crime rates in Japan have dropped due to the Sibyl System. Using the Psycho-Pass meter, the system can identify potential criminals. And stop crimes before it happens.
However, Akane Tsunemori, a new Public Safety Bureau’s inspector. Soon realizes that the Sibyl System is not at all perfect. Tsunemori, along with her teams of loyal latent criminals. She wishes to change the state of the Sibyl System.
She gets in trouble with law enforcement and gets herself in dangerous situations numerous times. But, who is willing to make a difference for a better world besides Tsunemori herself?
” Better To Fail Spectacularly Than Do Something Mediocre “
Anime Life Message:
Through the unreasonable judgment of the Sibyl System. Psycho-Pass strongly encouraged its viewers to challenge societal norms. Law exists to protect its citizens. However, bad laws should be challenged and changed.
Revolutions made up the world today. What if Abraham Lincoln never fought for slavery? What if the Civil War never occurred? If bad laws were not challenged, the world would never have changed for the better.
2. One Punch Man
Anime Synopsis:
After going through rigorous training and losing all his hair, Saitama has transformed into a seemingly invincible being. As a hobby, aside from daily grocery shopping, he goes around beating monsters to keep his neighborhood safe.
However, after an encounter with Rank-S hero Genos, Saitama decided to join the Hero Association to become an official hero.
” Never Underestimate The Quiet Ones “
Anime Life Message:
Though Saitama’s power is never recognized, the man is more powerful than the Hero Association combined. Despite this, unlike other shallow and fake heroes. Saitama does not focus on fame but rather on the world’s safety more than anything.
To us, he truly is our only hero!! Similar to modern society, a boisterous and active ‘fool’ is more noticeable than a quiet person. And aloof ‘genius’.And I am not saying that all boisterous and active people are fools. The more active people are out there gaining recognition.
At the same time, the quiet ones avoid conflicts and are mesmerized in their world. The bottom line is: never underestimate that one quiet and aloof person. Heck, it might even be Saitama, for all we know.
1. Watamote
Anime Synopsis:
Kuroki Tomoko lives the life of a classic awkward and introverted person. While possessing a love for high-school simulation games, Tomoko also aspired to live the life of a ‘popular’ person.
Along with support from her loved ones, the young girl is well on the way to achieving her goal. Or at least that’s what she thinks.
“Quitters Never Win And Winners Never Quit”
Anime Life Message:
Though Watamote is generally a hilarious and comedic anime, it does also contain dark themes. For some, Tomoko’s awkwardness and fear of social interactions are incredibly relatable.
Indeed, it can be challenging to break out of that shell. And yes, first impressions do matter, contrary to what some might say. However, on a positive note, Watamote strongly encouraged its viewers to never give up on any aspects of their lives. Tomoko never gave up on her ultimate dream.
In her way, she is giving it her best to become more popular. For the characters within the manga, perhaps Tomoko’s attempt was indeed fruitless. But in reality, we can take away a life-changing message from her efforts alone.
Conclusion:
For some, anime might be an entertainment medium to pass the time. However, these hidden gems might make you reconsider the way you think about anime. And life in general. These shows taught us important life messages.
And if you have not watched the anime listed here, please do yourself a favor and start now. You will learn a lot, I promise!!
Are there any more anime that you might consider putting on this list? Or perhaps you interpreted the anime on this list differently? If so, feel free to share in the comment section below!!
