Beyond Naruto And One Piece: 5 Underrated Anime Series You Probably Haven’t Watched Yet

While Naruto and One Piece shaped the anime journeys of millions, they also overshadowed several exceptional series that never received the same mainstream attention. These anime didn’t rely on endless episodes or loud spectacle, which is precisely why many viewers overlooked them. Yet, in hindsight, they stand out for their storytelling depth, emotional honesty and cinematic execution.

Here are five underrated anime series that quietly delivered some of the medium’s finest work.

Erased

Despite its gripping premise, Erased was often dismissed because of its short episode count and lack of traditional action sequences. Many viewers expected a fast-paced thriller but underestimated its emotional core. Today, it is recognised as a tightly written series that blends suspense with childhood trauma and moral urgency, making it one of the most impactful anime dramas of its time.

Parasyte: The Maxim

Parasyte struggled to break into the mainstream due to its unsettling tone and graphic imagery, which made it less accessible to casual viewers. However, beneath its horror surface lies a deeply philosophical story about humanity, coexistence and survival. Its relevance has only grown, cementing its status as an anime that was ahead of its time.

Monster

Often avoided because of its slow pacing and serious themes, Monster never appealed to audiences looking for instant entertainment. Its lack of fantasy elements also worked against it in an era dominated by supernatural battles. Yet, those who watched it discovered a masterfully layered psychological thriller that remains one of anime’s most critically respected narratives.

Barakamon

Barakamon was overlooked largely because it lacked dramatic conflict or high stakes. Marketed as a quiet slice-of-life series, it failed to grab attention in a space crowded with action-heavy titles. Over time, viewers came to appreciate its warmth, humour and gentle storytelling, which offered a refreshing break from intensity-driven anime.

A Silent Voice

Despite widespread critical praise, A Silent Voice didn’t reach many viewers who associated anime films with fantasy or adventure. Its realistic portrayal of bullying, disability and redemption made it emotionally demanding. Those who did watch it, however, often regard it as one of the most honest and moving animated films ever made.

Why These Anime Still Matter

What connects these series is not popularity, but purpose. They prioritised meaningful storytelling over spectacle and depth over duration. As audiences grow more open to exploring anime beyond household names, these titles stand as reminders that some of the medium’s best stories were simply waiting to be discovered.

For anyone ready to move beyond the familiar and experience anime at its most thoughtful, these underrated series offer the perfect starting point.