Best 20 Studio MAPPA Anime That You Should Watch - retoreview

Introduction:

In the ever-expanding realm of anime, Studio MAPPA stands as a powerhouse, weaving captivating narratives and delivering visually stunning masterpieces that leave an indelible mark on fans worldwide. Known for their exceptional animation quality, bold storytelling, and a penchant for pushing creative boundaries, Studio MAPPA has become synonymous with top-tier anime experiences.

As we dive into the world of Studio MAPPA, join us on a journey through some of the studio's most compelling creations that have set the anime community abuzz. From intense action sequences to emotionally charged narratives, Studio MAPPA has consistently raised the bar, earning them a well-deserved reputation among anime enthusiasts.

Whether you're a seasoned anime aficionado or a newcomer eager to explore the best that the medium has to offer, our curated list of the "Best 20 Studio MAPPA Anime That You Should Watch" is your gateway to a realm where storytelling prowess and artistic brilliance converge. Let's embark on this anime odyssey together, discovering the gems that make Studio MAPPA an essential contributor to the vibrant tapestry of the anime landscape.

20-Taisou Zamurai


At the peak of his gymnastics journey, Joutarou Aragaki, known as Samurai for his distinctive hairstyle, experiences a shoulder injury after his wife's passing. Despite five years passing, he persists in pushing his physical limits as part of the Japanese gymnastics team. However, Joutarou's rigorous training yields no improvement, leading his coach, Noriyuki Amakusa, to recommend retirement.

Accompanied by his lively and supportive nine-year-old daughter, Rei, Joutarou visits Ego Wonderland to share the difficult news with her. Yet, their outing takes an unexpected turn when they encounter a peculiar self-proclaimed ninja named Leonardo. Leonardo follows them home, consistently disrupting Joutarou's attempts to communicate with his daughter.

Upon discovering Leonardo's desire to witness his gymnastics once more, Joutarou surprises Japan by announcing that he is not retiring. He commits himself to the most significant challenge of his career, determined to prove that the world of gymnastics is where he truly belongs.

19-Re-Main


After awakening in a hospital, Minato Kiyomizu discovers that he has been in a coma for 203 days, resulting in a complete loss of memory from his middle school years due to a car accident. Realizing his past achievements in water polo, he expresses a desire to resume his passion. However, confronted with the stark contrast between his former self and his current state, Minato undergoes intense rehabilitation to start afresh, aiming for a life without water polo.

Despite his efforts to distance himself from the sport, Minato is confronted with his past skills and a commitment made on his first day at Yamanami High School. Despite being acutely aware of his limitations, he decides to join the school's water polo club. Alongside his clubmates, he embarks on the challenge of relearning the fundamentals of the sport and recruiting new members to meet the required seven-man roster. In the process, Minato endeavors to rediscover his latent talent for water polo and once again establish himself as one of Japan's celebrated players.

18-Zombieland Saga


Sakura Minamoto aspires to become an idol, but her dreams are shattered when she unexpectedly dies in a traffic accident. A decade later, she awakens in Saga Prefecture to discover that she's now a zombie with no recollection of her past. Koutarou Tatsumi, a man she encounters, reveals that he has resurrected her and six other zombie girls from different eras. His goal is to revive Saga's economy through an idol group comprising these resurrected girls. Taking on the role of a brusque manager, Koutarou organizes events, and the girls reluctantly agree, eventually naming their idol group Franchouchou.

Zombieland Saga presents a hilariously unconventional twist on the idol genre, narrating the heartwarming journey of Franchouchou as they strive to rescue Saga Prefecture. All the while, they must conceal their true identities as zombies and piece together the fragments of their past lives.

17-Ushio to Tora


Ushio Aotsuki, a determined middle school student and the son of an unconventional temple priest, lives his life dismissing his father's warnings about otherworldly creatures called youkai. However, while taking care of the temple in his father's absence, he stumbles upon a startling revelation: in the basement, he discovers a menacing youkai impaled by the legendary Beast Spear.

This youkai is Tora, renowned for his destructive abilities, who attempts to persuade Ushio into releasing him from a five-hundred-year seal. Ushio remains skeptical and refuses to set him free. Yet, when a sudden outbreak of youkai threatens his friends and home, Ushio has no alternative but to reluctantly trust Tora, relying on the ancient spear as a safeguard if things go awry.

The encounter between Ushio and Tora marks the commencement of an unexpected journey into the depths of the spiritual realm. Armed with the fabled Beast Spear, Ushio will soon discover the genuine and perilous nature of the supernatural world.

16-Tondemo Skill de Isekai Hourou Meshi


Tsuyoshi Mukouda, a corporate worker, finds himself unexpectedly summoned as a hero to the Kingdom of Reijseger in a parallel world to aid in their defense against adversaries. Suspicious of the true motives of the royal family, Mukouda manages to extricate himself from the situation using his non-combat skill, "Online Supermarket," which is initially dismissed as worthless.

Contrary to expectations, this skill proves to be highly valuable. Leveraging this ability, Mukouda can inexpensively acquire Japanese food products and utensils, many of which are considered luxury items in the new world. While showcasing his culinary talents with his newfound power, Mukouda attracts the attention of Fel, a formidable mythical wolf. Impressed by the mouthwatering dishes, Fel swiftly establishes a contract to become Mukouda's familiar. Accompanied by Fel, Mukouda embarks on a journey across the world, making a living as both an adventurer and a merchant, all the while relishing delicious meals.

15-Takt Op. Destiny


The United States of America has plunged into turmoil since the advent of D2s, an invasive species originating from a black meteorite that descended to Earth. A public decree prohibits citizens from engaging in musical activities to prevent further casualties caused by the D2s' aversion to music. Even in 2047, this prohibition remains in force. Humanity's sole defense against the D2s lies in Musicarts, young women embodying classical music pieces, and Conductors who control them.

Takt Asahina, a detached piano prodigy, undergoes a transformation into a Conductor during an unexpected D2 attack. The same incident claims the life of Anna Schneider's younger sister, Cosette, and introduces Takt to his Musicart, Destiny. In their quest to stabilize the pact between them, Takt, Destiny, and Anna embark on a hazardous journey to the Symphonica Headquarters in New York City.

Takt is eager to reach the city to resume playing the piano, despite the fact that his passion attracts the creatures he now despises. Meanwhile, Destiny's sense of duty entangles the group in trouble along the way. With a path infested by D2s and numerous challenging obstacles ahead, will the trio successfully reach New York City unscathed?

14-Inuyashiki


Ichirou Inuyashiki, a 58-year-old man facing challenges in his personal life, grapples with chronic back pain and the emotional distance from his indifferent wife and children. Despite these difficulties, he finds comfort in adopting Hanako, an abandoned Shiba Inu. His life takes a tragic turn when a medical examination reveals he has stomach cancer with only three months left to live. Despite trying to remain strong, his family's lack of concern leads to an emotional breakdown.

In a moment of despair, Ichirou, accompanied by Hanako, encounters a mysterious figure in a nearby field. A sudden burst of light surrounds him, and he awakens to a startling revelation—he has been reborn as a mechanized weapon in the guise of his former self. Initially shocked, Ichirou discovers that he possesses extraordinary powers.

Driven by compassion, Ichirou decides to use his newfound abilities to save lives, finding joy and renewed hope in helping others. However, the source and purpose of these powers remain shrouded in mystery. The enigmatic figure from the field raises questions about the nature of this transformation and whether they share Ichirou's benevolent intentions with this dangerous gift.

13-Heion Sedai no Idaten-tachi


Eight centuries in the past, humanity faced a dire threat from horrifying demons that jeopardized its very existence. On the verge of extinction, people fervently prayed to their deities, imploring for deliverance. Responding to these desperate pleas, powerful battle deities, known as the "Idaten," manifested. Endowed with extraordinary strength and endurance, the Idaten successfully vanquished the demons, bringing forth an era of unparalleled peace.

The current generation of Idaten, unfamiliar with the brutality of demons, has only known a tranquil life. Under the guidance of Rin, the sole surviving Idaten from eight centuries ago, the new generation learns to navigate a world where they appear to have outlived their original purpose. However, when the oppressive Zoble Empire resurrects a demon, the unconventional group of gods is once again summoned to the battlefield to confront their ancient adversary.

12-Kakegurui


In contrast to many educational institutions, Hyakkaou Private Academy equips its students with skills essential for real-world challenges. The student body comprises the offspring of the world's wealthiest individuals, imparting a distinct character to the academy. By day, it functions as a conventional school, offering lessons in history, languages, and various subjects. However, as night falls, it transforms into a hub of gambling activities, instructing students in financial acumen and the art of influencing others. The maxim "money is power" prevails, determining the hierarchy within the school based on the outcomes of these games.

Yumeko Jabami, an ostensibly innocent and attractive transfer student, is poised to immerse herself in Hyakkaou's unique curriculum. Diverging from her peers, she doesn't engage in the games solely for victory; rather, she seeks the exhilaration of the gamble. Yumeko's unconventional and nearly deranged approach to gambling may introduce unforeseen dynamics to the gaming table.

11-Shingeki no Bahamut: Genesis


In ancient times, the legendary dragon Bahamut unleashed chaos upon the Mistarcian land—a realm shared by gods, demons, and humans. To avert the world's demise, rival deities united to seal Bahamut, dividing the key between them to ensure the dragon's eternal imprisonment.

With Bahamut's threat neutralized, bounty hunters like Favaro Leone resume their usual activities in the tranquil world. Favaro, leading a carefree and self-centered life, navigates his bounty hunting endeavors while evading pursuit from Kaisar Lidfard, a righteous bounty hunter seeking vengeance. However, Favaro's uncomplicated existence takes an unexpected turn when he encounters Amira, a mysterious woman holding a crucial part of the key that maintains the world's delicate peace.

"Shingeki no Bahamut: Genesis" narrates the tale of an unlikely group of heroes thrust into the midst of a grand conflict between gods and demons. As they confront an imminent storm, these individuals must forge their own path to navigate the challenges that arise.

10-Dance Dance Danseur


Junpei Murao's fascination with ballet ignited in his youth when he attended his sister's ballet recital and witnessed a male dancer deliver a captivating performance. However, Junpei harbors a deep fear of his peers discovering his secret passion for ballet, worried that they might perceive him as effeminate. Consequently, he actively participates in the soccer club, trains in Jeet Kune Do, and aspires to follow his father's path as a stunt coordinator—pursuits traditionally associated with masculinity.

One day, Junpei's classmate Miyako Godai witnesses him showcasing a remarkable kick that seamlessly blends ballet and Jeet Kune Do techniques. Intrigued, she persuades him to join her mother's ballet studio. Despite initial reluctance and having abandoned his dreams of formally pursuing ballet, Junpei cannot deny the unique euphoria that ballet brings. Suppressing his desire for ballet over time has made it challenging for him to shed his hesitations and break free from societal expectations of masculinity. To fully embrace ballet, Junpei must be prepared to make sacrifices and confront the risk of losing some friendships.

9-Yuri!!! on Ice


After suffering a devastating loss at the Grand Prix Finale, Yuuri Katsuki, once hailed as Japan's most promising figure skater, returns to his family home to contemplate his future. At 23, Yuuri faces a narrowing window of opportunity in the skating world, exacerbated by his love for pork cutlets and a tendency to gain weight.

Unexpectedly, Yuuri gains attention when a video of him performing a routine previously executed by the five-time world champion, Victor Nikiforov, goes viral. To his surprise, Victor himself shows up at Yuuri's doorstep and offers to be his mentor. Thrilled to have one of his idols as a mentor, Yuuri embarks on a journey to reclaim his position on the global stage. However, the competition is intense, with the emerging Russian star, Yuri Plisetsky, relentlessly determined to surpass Yuuri and regain Victor's guidance.

8-Dorohedoro


Hole, a dismal and chaotic district where the powerful exploit the vulnerable and death is commonplace, truly lives up to its name. It exists outside the bounds of law and ethics, serving as a battleground for magic users who hold sway over it. Occupying the highest echelons of society, these magic users view the inhabitants of Hole as insignificant insects, subjecting them to murder, mutilation, and experimentation without a second thought. The powerless denizens of Hole regularly fill the halls of its hospital, victims of the atrocities committed against them.

With unrestricted access to and from this cesspool and facing minimal challenges to their authority, the magic users seem invincible to most, except for a select few. Kaiman, more reptilian than human, stands out as one such individual. Armed with a pair of trusted bayonets and immune to magic, he relentlessly hunts magic users in a quest for answers. Cursed by his appearance and haunted by nightmares, he sees magic users as the key to restoring his life to normalcy. Despite his biggest obstacle being his own hunger, his ally Nikaidou, who runs the restaurant Hungry Bug, supports him in his journey.

Set in a harsh world of infernal design, Dorohedoro skillfully blends comedy and lighthearted moments with the grim realities of death and carnage. Unfolding through the lives of Hole's residents, the narrative takes unexpected twists and turns, creating a unique and otherworldly environment with a bleak appearance that may not be suitable for the faint-hearted or easily disturbed.

7-Jigokuraku


Condemned to death, the emotionless ninja known as Gabimaru the Hollow resigns himself to his fate. Despite a life steeped in bloodshed, Gabimaru feels he deserves the ultimate punishment. Strangely, every attempt to execute him proves futile. Enter Sagiri Yamada Asaemon, a novice member of a renowned executioner clan, tasked with ending Gabimaru's life. However, Sagiri hesitates and refuses to carry out the deed.

Asserting that Gabimaru's love for his wife is the key to his survival, Sagiri proposes an alternative. Instead of death, Gabimaru is offered a chance at redemption. If he can journey to the perilous island of Shinsekyo, procure the fabled Elixir of Life, rumored to bestow immortality, and deliver it to the shogun, he will be granted a full pardon.

Yet, no one who has ventured to Shinsekyo in pursuit of the mythical elixir has returned unscathed, if they return at all. Unaware of the impending perils, Gabimaru accepts the proposition, joined by ten other condemned individuals. His goal is to secure a future of peace for himself and his wife, even as the challenges ahead remain shrouded in uncertainty.

6-Zankyou no Terror


In the aftermath of a terrorist attack on a Japanese nuclear facility, the sole remnants are the painted red letters spelling "VON." The government grapples with its ineffectiveness, and the police are in a frantic pursuit to apprehend the culprits. The public remains unaware until, six months later, an enigmatic video surfaces on the internet. In the video, two unidentified teenage boys, known only as "Sphinx," directly challenge the police, threatening to unleash chaos and destruction throughout Tokyo. As mass panic grips the city and the police struggle to contain the situation, Detective Kenjirou Shibazaki finds himself caught in the midst of the chaos.

Zankyou no Terror narrates the tale of Nine and Twelve, the mysterious duo concealed behind the masks of Sphinx. Against all odds, they defy existence in a world of lies and concealed truths, orchestrating the city's descent into chaos with the aim of burying their own tragic past.

5-Sakamichi no Apollon


Kaoru Nishimi, an introverted classical pianist and exemplary student, has recently started his first year of high school in Kyushu. Due to a childhood marked by constant relocations, he resigns himself to the prospect of another isolating and unfulfilling year. However, everything changes when he crosses paths with Sentarou Kawabuchi, a notorious delinquent.

Sentarou's deep passion for jazz music becomes a catalyst for Kaoru's curiosity about the genre. Consequently, Kaoru begins to break free from his self-imposed isolation and forges his first genuine friendship. Engaging in after-school jazz sessions in the basement of Ritsuko Mukae's family-owned record shop, Kaoru not only explores the world of jazz but also discovers the profound joy of using his musical talents to bring happiness to himself and others. As the summer unfolds, Kaoru's experiences might culminate in a memorable crescendo that stays with him forever.

"Sakamichi no Apollon" is a heartwarming narrative that revolves around friendship, music, and love, portraying the journey of three distinct individuals united by their shared love for jazz.

4-Banana Fish


Aslan Jade Callenreese, also known as Ash Lynx, escaped life on the streets of New York City and was brought up by Dino Golzine, a notorious mafia godfather. At the age of 17, Ash has become the leader of his own gang. His current focus is unraveling the enigma of "Banana Fish," a phrase his older brother Griffin repeatedly mentioned after returning from the Iraq War. Ash's pursuit faces obstacles when Dino dispatches his henchmen to track him down at an underground bar where he seeks refuge.

In this bar, Ash's friend Skip introduces him to Shunichi Ibe and Eiji Okumura, Japanese photographers covering American street gangs. Their conversation is abruptly interrupted by Shorter Wong, an ally of Ash, who warns him about Dino's impending threat. Chaos ensues as Dino's men raid the bar, kidnapping both Skip and Eiji. Now, Ash must navigate the dangerous situation, rescue his friends, and persist in his investigation of Banana Fish. However, the shadows of his mafia past loom large, raising doubts about his chances of success.

3-Dororo


The avaricious feudal lord Daigo Kagemitsu's domain is withering away, and he is willing to go to any lengths for power, even forsaking Buddha and entering into a pact with malevolent forces. His prayers are answered by 12 demons who grant him the desired power in exchange for aiding the prosperity of his region, but there's a catch. When Kagemitsu's first son is born, the child is born without limbs, nose, eyes, ears, or even skin—yet miraculously survives.

This infant is abandoned in a river and forgotten. Fortunately, a healer happens upon him, providing prosthetics and weapons that enable him to survive and fend for himself. Despite lacking the ability to see, hear, or feel, the boy must confront and defeat the demons that were responsible for his sacrificial fate. With the demise of each demon, he reclaims a part of himself that was taken. For many years, he roams alone until an orphan named Dororo befriends him. Together, this unlikely pair of outcasts fights for their survival and humanity in a merciless world infested with demons.

2-Jujutsu Kaisen


Engaging in unfounded paranormal activities with the Occult Club, high school student Yuuji Itadori divides his time between the clubroom and the hospital, where he cares for his bedridden grandfather. However, his relaxed routine takes an unexpected turn when he unintentionally comes across a cursed object. This sets off a series of supernatural events that thrusts Yuuji into the world of Curses—sinister entities born from human malevolence and negativity. The catalyst for this transformation is the ingestion of a finger that turns out to belong to Sukuna Ryoumen, the formidable King of Curses.

As Yuuji grapples with his newfound abilities, he witnesses the peril that Curses pose to society. His journey leads him to Tokyo Prefectural Jujutsu High School, where he embarks on an irreversible path—the life of a Jujutsu sorcerer.

1-Chainsaw Man


Denji's adolescence is stolen from him, replaced by the burden of his father's insurmountable debt. With his lone companion being the chainsaw devil Pochita, he engages in devil-slaying to settle his debts, only to find the money flowing into the yakuza's coffers. Denji yearns for a simple, enjoyable life filled with good food and the company of a beautiful girlfriend. However, a treacherous betrayal by the yakuza results in Denji's brutal demise, shattering any hope of attaining happiness.

Surprisingly, an ancient contract enables Pochita to merge with the deceased Denji, granting him devil powers and transforming him into a hybrid capable of turning body parts into chainsaws. Due to the potential threat posed by Denji's newfound abilities, the elite devil hunter Makima from the Public Safety Bureau takes him under her wing. Denji is allowed to live, provided he follows Makima's commands. Driven by the prospect of a fulfilling life with an appealing partner, Denji dedicates himself completely, striving to turn his idealistic dreams into reality. 

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