Top Fall 2022 Anime You Can't Miss

Hey anime lovers! Get ready to dive into the coolest season of anime with our roundup of the absolute best Fall 2022 anime you NEED to be watching. This season was an absolute banger, with a mix of brand new series that blew us away and continuations of beloved franchises that kept us on the edge of our seats. We're talking epic action, heartwarming stories, mind-bending plots, and characters that you'll be thinking about long after the credits roll. So, grab your snacks, settle in, and let's get into the shows that made Fall 2022 a truly unforgettable season for anime fans everywhere. Whether you're a seasoned otaku or just dipping your toes into the vast ocean of anime, there's something here for everyone.

The Big Hitters That Defined the Season

When we talk about the best Fall 2022 anime, a few titles immediately spring to mind, and for good reason. These were the shows that dominated conversations, generated massive hype, and delivered on every single promise. Chainsaw Man was undoubtedly the elephant in the room, and man, did it deliver. The anime adaptation of Tatsuki Fujimoto's wild manga was a visual spectacle, bringing Denji's bizarre and brutal world to life with stunning animation and intense action sequences. The blend of dark humor, gore, and surprisingly emotional moments made it a standout. MAPPA, the studio behind Jujutsu Kaisen and Attack on Titan, absolutely outdid themselves, proving once again why they are a powerhouse in the industry. The character designs were faithful, the fight choreography was fluid and impactful, and the soundtrack? Chef's kiss! It wasn't just about the hype; Chainsaw Man offered a unique narrative that explored themes of poverty, exploitation, and the search for basic human connection, all wrapped up in a devil-hunting extravaganza. Makima was a character that everybody was talking about, and her enigmatic presence added so much depth to the unfolding drama. The introduction of characters like Aki Hayakawa and Power, with their distinct personalities and motivations, further enriched the experience, making the cast feel incredibly well-rounded and compelling. The way the anime handled the source material's chaotic energy while still maintaining a coherent narrative was a masterclass in adaptation. Honestly, if you missed out on Chainsaw Man this season, you seriously missed out on a cultural phenomenon. It set a new bar for what anime adaptations can achieve, and the discussion around its characters and plot points continued long after the final episode aired, which is a testament to its lasting impact. The sheer creativity and audacity of the series captured the imagination of fans worldwide, making it a must-watch for anyone looking for something truly unique and exhilarating.

Another series that absolutely crushed it was Spy x Family Part 2. While technically a continuation, its release in Fall 2022 made it a crucial part of the season's success. The Forger family's antics continued to charm us, balancing heartwarming slice-of-life moments with espionage thrills. Anya's adorable reactions, Loid's suave spy work, and Yor's deadly assassin skills all came together to create a perfect blend of comedy and action. WIT Studio and CloverWorks really nailed the tone, making every episode a joy to watch. The dynamic between the three main characters is simply unbeatable, and the introduction of new characters and plotlines in this second part only added more layers to their already fascinating lives. The world-building is subtle yet effective, creating a believable Cold War-esque setting that contrasts beautifully with the Forger family's domestic bliss. The anime manages to tackle mature themes like political intrigue and societal prejudice with a light touch, making it accessible to a wide audience. Anya, with her telepathic abilities, often provides hilarious insights into the characters' true thoughts, leading to some of the season's funniest moments. Yor's duality as a loving adopted mother and a ruthless assassin is a constant source of both tension and comedy, and Loid's struggle to maintain his cover while genuinely caring for his new family adds a layer of emotional depth. The interactions between these three characters are the heart of the show, and watching them grow closer, despite their secrets, is incredibly rewarding. Spy x Family Part 2 didn't just continue the story; it deepened our connection to the characters and the world they inhabit, solidifying its place as one of the most beloved anime of the year. It's the kind of show that leaves you with a smile on your face and a warm feeling in your heart, proving that sometimes, the most compelling stories are about found families and the lengths we go to protect them.

Hidden Gems and Surprises You Might Have Missed

While the big names grab the headlines, the best Fall 2022 anime list wouldn't be complete without shouting out some of the incredible hidden gems and surprise hits. Bocchi the Rock! absolutely exploded onto the scene, and honestly, it was the dark horse that nobody saw coming but everyone fell in love with. This slice-of-life comedy about a socially anxious girl who dreams of becoming a rock star is pure gold. The animation is incredibly dynamic and expressive, perfectly capturing Bocchi's crippling anxiety and her journey of overcoming it through music. CloverWorks delivered a surprisingly deep and hilarious character study that resonated with so many viewers. The way the show visualizes Bocchi's internal struggles through surreal and often hilarious sequences is genius. It's not just about her anxiety; it's about friendship, finding your voice, and the power of pursuing your passions, even when it feels impossible. The bandmates – Nijika, Ryo, and Kita – are fantastic characters in their own right, each bringing their unique personalities and dynamics that help Bocchi grow. The music itself is also surprisingly good, with original songs that fit perfectly within the narrative. This anime proved that you don't need epic battles or world-ending threats to create a compelling story. The relatability of Bocchi's struggles, combined with the show's sharp wit and creative execution, made it an instant classic for many. It's a feel-good show that tackles mental health issues with sensitivity and humor, making it a truly special experience. The pacing is excellent, allowing viewers to connect with Bocchi's slow but steady progress, and the supporting cast provides both comedic relief and genuine support, highlighting the importance of a good friend group. The visual gags and the fourth-wall breaks are expertly done, adding an extra layer of charm and entertainment. If you're looking for something that will make you laugh, cry, and cheer Bocchi on, this is the anime for you.

Don't sleep on Mobile Suit Gundam: The Witch from Mercury either! This new entry in the legendary Gundam franchise brought a fresh perspective to the series, focusing on a female protagonist, Suletta Mercury, and a more school-drama-infused setting. The political intrigue, the corporate rivalries, and the mecha battles were all top-notch, but it was the character dynamics and the underlying themes of societal prejudice and corporate greed that really made it stand out. Sunrise really showed that Gundam can evolve and appeal to new audiences while staying true to its roots. The animation quality is superb, and the pacing keeps you hooked from the start. The relationships between the characters, particularly Suletta and Miorine, are central to the narrative, offering a compelling emotional core amidst the high-stakes conflicts. The show doesn't shy away from exploring complex themes, such as the ethics of war, the impact of technology on society, and the challenges faced by those who are different. Suletta's journey from a shy, somewhat naive student to a determined pilot is incredibly engaging, and Miorine's strong, independent personality provides a perfect foil. The world of Asticassia, with its rigid social hierarchy and the dominance of corporate powers, serves as a fascinating backdrop for the unfolding drama. The series managed to balance intense mobile suit combat with character-driven storytelling, creating a rich and immersive experience. The visual design of the Gundams themselves is striking, and the action sequences are choreographed with precision and flair. The Witch from Mercury is a testament to the enduring appeal of the Gundam franchise and its ability to reinvent itself for a new generation. It’s a show that encourages critical thinking and offers a thought-provoking narrative that lingers long after viewing. It proves that the best Fall 2022 anime can also be the ones that bravely venture into new territory while respecting their legacy.

Genres Galore: Something for Every Fan

Fall 2022 wasn't just about action and comedy; the best Fall 2022 anime spanned across a multitude of genres, ensuring that every fan found something to love. For the fantasy enthusiasts, Frieren: Beyond Journey's End (though its main run started in Fall 2023, its initial announcement and early buzz were significant, and many anticipate its impact) offered a beautifully melancholic and introspective look at immortality and the passage of time. While its full release was later, the anticipation for it as a major upcoming release from the Fall 2022 announcement cycle warrants its mention for its sheer quality and the impact it had on expectations for future seasons. If we focus strictly on shows that aired during Fall 2022, then we have to highlight series that provided profound narrative experiences. Let's reconsider some of the other fantastic series that aired. The sheer variety this season was incredible. Whether you were craving a tense psychological thriller, a heartwarming romance, or a high-octane adventure, Fall 2022 delivered. The studios behind these shows pulled out all the stops, delivering stunning visuals, compelling narratives, and memorable characters that will undoubtedly be talked about for years to come. The diversity in storytelling meant that even if a particular genre wasn't your usual cup of tea, the sheer quality of the execution in other shows might have convinced you to branch out. This season was a fantastic reminder of the breadth and depth of creativity within the anime industry. The ability to weave complex emotional arcs with exciting plot developments across different genres is what makes anime such a unique and captivating medium. It's this blend of artistic expression and storytelling prowess that cements Fall 2022 as a truly exceptional season. The willingness of creators to experiment with different themes and narrative structures ensures that anime remains a dynamic and ever-evolving art form, constantly offering fresh perspectives and engaging experiences for its global audience. The sheer volume of high-quality content released during this period also speaks volumes about the industry's capacity to cater to a diverse range of tastes, making it a golden age for anime fans.

For the Shonen Fanatics: Beyond the aforementioned giants, shows like Blue Lock kicked off with incredible energy. This competitive sports anime took the soccer genre to a whole new level with its intense, almost battle-royale-like approach to finding the best striker. The sheer brutality and psychological warfare involved in the 'Blue Lock' program made for incredibly compelling viewing. It’s the kind of show that gets your adrenaline pumping and makes you root for your favorite characters to survive and thrive in a cutthroat environment. The animation during the matches was dynamic, and the strategic depth of the gameplay kept viewers engaged. It tapped into the primal desire to be the best and framed it within the context of a sport, making it universally relatable yet uniquely thrilling. The characters, despite their often selfish motivations, are incredibly charismatic, and their development throughout the intense trials is a major draw.

For the Slice-of-Life and Romance Aficionados: While Bocchi the Rock! certainly hit the mark, other shows offered their own unique charms. Keep an eye out for underrated series that might have flown under the radar but offered heartfelt stories and lovable characters. The beauty of the best Fall 2022 anime season was this incredible variety, ensuring that no matter your preference, there was a compelling narrative waiting for you. Each genre offered a unique lens through which to experience compelling storytelling, from the high-stakes competition of sports anime to the introspective journeys of slice-of-life dramas. The sheer quality and diversity of the offerings made Fall 2022 a landmark season for anime fans worldwide, solidifying its place in the annals of great anime years. It was a time of explosive new hits, satisfying continuations, and the discovery of potential future classics, all contributing to a vibrant and unforgettable viewing experience.