Content Warning: This article addresses sensitive themes.
With the conclusion of the action-packed Summer 2023 anime lineup, featuring giants like Jujutsu Kaisen and Bleach: Thousand-Year Blood War, anime enthusiasts eagerly await the fresh narratives and characters of the upcoming Fall Season. Fans of both returning series with new chapters and brand-new adaptations of beloved manga are already counting down the days to these premieres.
Even before their official release, these newcomers have stirred fervent discussions on My Anime List. From an immortal elf grappling with her past regrets to a quirky detective and a young police officer's quest to solve mysteries, viewers can expect profound themes and diverse characters in the most highly anticipated new anime of Fall 2023.
10 Shangri-La Frontier
Shangri-La Frontier
Shangri-La Frontier blends action-adventure with a touch of video game allure, following second-year high school student Rakuro Hizutome. Rakuro's sole interest lies in seeking out bad games and conquering them. His gaming prowess knows no bounds, and no game is too dreadful for him to relish. However, his world takes a dramatic turn when he dives headfirst into the latest VR game, 'Shangri-La Frontier,' bypassing the prologue and tutorial in favor of min-maxing and immediate action. As the story unfolds, Shangri-La Frontier promises unexpected twists and subversions. This shounen anime premieres on October 1.
9 I'm in Love With a Villainess
I'm in Love With a Villainess
An isekai tale based on a Light Novel, I'm in Love With a Villainess follows ordinary office worker Rei Oohashi, who awakens in the body of the protagonist of her cherished otome game, "Revolution." To her delight, Rei crosses paths with her favorite character in the game, Claire Francois, who also happens to be the game's primary antagonist. Rather than pursuing romantic interests among the game's male leads like Rod and Yu Bauer, Rei concentrates all her efforts on winning Claire's heart. Promising an unexpected romance and the possibility of an "enemies to lovers" arc, "I'm in Love With a Villainess" premieres on October 3.
8 The Vexations of a Shut-In Vampire Princess
The Vexations of a Shut-In Vampire Princess
Vampire Princess Terakomari Gandesblood, affectionately known as Komari, awakens from a prolonged slumber of nearly three years only to discover her appointment as a Commander in the Mulnite Imperial Army. Her unit comprises rebels and ruffians who revolted against their superiors at the first sign of weakness. Despite hailing from a prestigious vampire lineage, Komari's blood-free diet has left her scrawny, uncoordinated, and inept at magic. "The Vexations of a Shut-In Vampire Princess," premiering on October 7, unfolds as an underdog tale, chronicling Komari's journey to success as the Commander of her unlikely unit, accompanied by her devoted maid Vill, who may or may not have a crush on her.
7 Our Dating Story: The Experienced You and The Inexperienced Me
Our Dating Story
Our Dating Story: The Experienced You and The Inexperienced Me kicks off with Ryuto Kashima reluctantly confessing his feelings to Runa Shirakawa, the school's most popular girl. Surprisingly, Runa, who claims to be currently single, accepts his confession, leading to an unexpected first date. The surprises don't end there, as Runa invites Ryuto to her room immediately after school. Despite their differences in love experience and social circles, Ryuto and Runa embark on a journey filled with romantic firsts. This love story, premiering on October 6, promises heartfelt moments.
6 Undead Unluck
Undead Unluck
Undead Unluck weaves an action-packed yet heartwarming narrative centered around the duo of Fuuko Izumo and Andy. For a decade, Fuuko has suffered from a condition that brings extreme misfortune to anyone who touches her, inadvertently leading to the tragic demise of her parents. After contemplating ending her life on a bridge, she encounters a mysterious man whose touch sends him plummeting in front of an oncoming train. However, Fuuko soon realizes that Andy shares her unique ability—he is immortal. Unbeknownst to them, a mysterious organization is tracking their bizarre powers as they vow to help each other achieve the best possible death. "Undead Unluck" premieres on October 7.
5 Ron Kamonohashi, Deranged Detective
Ron Kamonohashi, Deranged Detective
Totomaru Isshiki, despite lacking the ideal skills for the job, always aspired to solve murders and assist people at the Metropolitan Police Department. Seeking guidance from a mentor, Totomaru sets out to recruit Ron Kamonohashi, once the most promising detective at Detective Training Academy Blue five years ago. Ron's sudden disappearance remains shrouded in mystery, but Totomaru may hold the key to unlocking it. Although Ron initially refuses to engage with the detective, they ultimately team up to tackle a current serial murder case. "Ron Kamonohashi, Deranged Detective" premieres on October 2.
4 The Apothecary Diaries
The Apothecary Diaries
In what promises to be one of the visually rich offerings of Fall 2023, The Apothecary Diaries revolves around a 17-year-old girl named Maomao. Kidnapped and forced into servitude at the emperor's palace within an imperial court in ancient China, Maomao becomes aware of the emperor's ailing twin babies. Drawing upon her experience as a pharmacist raised in the impoverished light district, she takes it upon herself to intervene, all while remaining anonymous. Maomao's talents catch the eye of Jinshi, a eunuch who recognizes her potential. This catapults her into the emperor's inner court, where her knowledge and eccentricity lead her to solve various medical mysteries. "The Apothecary Diaries" premieres on October 22.
3 Ragna Crimson
Ragna Crimson
In a world dominated by dragons that rule the skies, seas, and land, Ragna Crimson sets the stage for an epic confrontation between humanity and these draconic oppressors. Ragna, the protagonist, is driven by a prophetic dream of his mentor's death and his destined victory over the dragon overlords. He forms an unlikely alliance with the enigmatic hunter Crimson. While Crimson's motives for joining forces with Ragna remain unclear, their shared goal is clear: to vanquish the dragon monarchs and free humanity. With tones reminiscent of "Hell's Paradise" and "Jujutsu Kaisen," "Ragna Crimson" is a tale of destruction, sacrifice, and deep lore. It premieres on October 1.
2 The Kingdoms of Ruin
The Kingdoms of Ruin
Fantasy takes center stage in Fall 2023 with The Kingdoms of Ruin. Set in a world where magic has been eradicated and replaced by scientific advancements, the Redia Empire wages a ruthless campaign against witches, deeming both them and their magic obsolete. Adonis, the protagonist, was just a boy when the witch hunt began, apprenticed to a beloved witch who met a tragic end at the hands of the Redia Empire. Driven by vengeance, Adonis unleashes his formidable powers to exact revenge, leading to a blood-soaked path of retribution. "The Kingdoms of Ruin" premieres on October 7.
1 Frieren: Beyond Journey's End
Frieren: Beyond Journey's End
Topping the list of the most highly anticipated anime for Fall 2023 is Frieren: Beyond Journey's End. This fantasy drama follows Frieren, who, in fulfillment of her comrade's dying wish, takes on his apprentice as they embark on an ostensibly aimless journey. This adventure revisits places previously explored by Frieren and her companions—Himmel, Heiter, and Eisen—while they were still alive. However, this anime is not about a quest to defeat a demon king but rather begins with his defeat, as the four heroes reminisce about their decade-long journey. After the celebratory reunion, they bid each other farewell, and Frieren, an elf for whom time passes differently, bears witness to the gradual passing of her companions. Now joined by Fren, Frieren confronts her regrets and missed opportunities to forge deeper bonds with her departed friends. "Frieren: Beyond Journey's End" promises to be an emotionally charged anime, premiering on September 29.
As the Fall 2023 season approaches, anime enthusiasts have much to look forward to, from action-packed adventures to heartfelt dramas and captivating mysteries. These top 10 highly anticipated anime are sure to keep fans eagerly glued to their screens.
