Top Romance Anime Of 2021: Award Winners

Hey anime fans, are you ready to dive into the world of heartwarming stories, intense feelings, and unforgettable characters? I bet you are! Today, we're taking a look back at the best romance anime of 2021, a year that gifted us with some truly spectacular tales of love, loss, and everything in between. Whether you're a seasoned anime enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, get ready to discover (or revisit) some of the most charming and emotionally resonant series from that year. Let's get started, shall we?

Understanding the Criteria: What Makes a Romance Anime 'Best'?

Before we jump into the winners, let's talk about what makes a romance anime truly stand out. What are the key ingredients that elevate a series from good to great? It's not just about the cute couples or the blushing characters. A truly exceptional romance anime excels in several areas:

First off, character development is absolutely crucial. We need to see the characters grow, evolve, and learn about themselves and each other. Are the characters dynamic and interesting? Do they have unique personalities, flaws, and strengths that make them relatable and engaging? Do they feel like real people, even if they're drawn in the style of anime? Strong character development allows us to connect with the characters on a deeper level. We start to root for them, celebrate their victories, and feel their pain. Watching characters mature and overcome obstacles together is incredibly rewarding. A good romance anime knows that the journey of self-discovery and personal growth is just as important as the romantic relationship itself.

Then, of course, there's the chemistry between the main characters. Are we convinced of their feelings for each other? Do they have a natural connection, or do their interactions feel forced? Great chemistry can be the result of a variety of things - shared interests, compatible personalities, a sense of humor, or even something as simple as the way they look at each other. Subtle cues, like a lingering gaze or a tentative touch, can speak volumes about the bond between two characters. The best romance anime knows how to build that chemistry slowly and deliberately, allowing the relationship to blossom organically.

The plot itself is very important, too! A compelling plot is another element. While romance is at the heart of these series, they also need a solid storyline to keep us invested. Is there a clear conflict or problem that the characters must overcome? Are there interesting subplots or secondary characters that add depth to the story? A well-crafted plot gives the romance context, meaning, and a sense of purpose. It provides a framework for the characters to interact and grow. The story must keep us invested and curious about what is going to happen next.

And finally, emotional impact. Does the anime make you feel something? Do you laugh, cry, cheer, and maybe even cringe a little? A truly unforgettable romance anime will take you on an emotional rollercoaster. It'll leave you thinking about the characters and their story long after the credits roll. Emotional resonance is what elevates a good anime to a classic.

The Award Ceremony: Top Romance Anime of 2021

Alright, it's time to reveal the winners! These are the anime that captured our hearts in 2021. So, grab your snacks, get comfy, and let's get into it.

Winner: Horimiya

Horimiya (or Hori-san to Miyamura-kun in Japanese) absolutely charmed audiences with its sweet and realistic portrayal of high school romance. This anime, based on the manga series, centers around the unlikely pairing of the popular and seemingly perfect Kyoko Hori and the gloomy, bookish Izumi Miyamura. They are both keeping secrets. Hori has a hidden side of the house chores and looking after her family, and Miyamura has body modifications. The story really begins when they accidentally discover each other's secret identities.

The anime is the best. The series really sets itself apart from others by delving into the challenges and complexities of teenage relationships. The characters have a great connection, going through ups and downs together, supporting each other and being honest with each other. This is not just a typical high school romance. The anime explores themes of self-discovery, identity, and the struggle to be true to oneself. The characters deal with their own insecurities and learn to accept themselves and each other, which brings the audience closer to the story. The characters are likeable. The character development is really good. The plot development is very good. The overall impact of this anime is very great. Horimiya leaves you with a warm, fuzzy feeling and a newfound appreciation for the beauty of everyday moments.

Runner-Up: Fruits Basket: The Final

Fruits Basket: The Final is the third and final season of the reboot of the classic Fruits Basket manga. This anime series follows the story of Tohru Honda, an orphan girl who ends up living with the Soma family. It is a story about the cursed family. When a member of the Soma family is hugged by a member of the opposite sex, the person transforms into one of the animals of the Chinese zodiac. The curse causes a series of problems, secrets, and challenges for the Soma family.

Fruits Basket is a story of love, family, and healing. Tohru brings light and positivity into the Soma family. The series is emotionally deep and deals with complex themes like trauma, abuse, and the importance of forgiveness and acceptance. The anime really stands out with its beautiful animation, emotional storytelling, and well-developed characters. The story of Fruits Basket: The Final brings the story to a satisfying conclusion, resolving the conflicts and giving closure to the characters' journeys. It's a bittersweet but ultimately uplifting watch that will stay with you long after you've finished it. The series is able to be a tearjerker and a heartwarming story all at once.

Honorable Mention: Wonder Egg Priority

Wonder Egg Priority is a visually stunning and emotionally charged anime that explores the themes of grief, trauma, and friendship. The series tells the story of Ai Ooto, a middle school girl who is guided by a mysterious voice to buy a wonder egg. After hatching the egg, Ai must enter a dream world and save girls from the past to bring them back to life.

While not strictly a romance anime, Wonder Egg Priority includes romantic elements and explores the characters' feelings. The animation is absolutely beautiful, with vibrant colors. The story is quite unique and the anime stands out because it blends elements of magical realism, psychological drama, and slice-of-life. It's a thought-provoking series that raises a lot of questions about mental health, self-acceptance, and the impact of trauma. The anime is great and stands out with its unique visual style and strong emotional impact. Wonder Egg Priority is a must-watch for anyone looking for a thought-provoking and visually stunning anime.

Conclusion: The Enduring Appeal of Romance Anime

And there you have it, folks! The top romance anime of 2021. As you can see, the genre is still alive and well, offering a wide range of stories that resonate with viewers of all ages. From heartwarming high school romances to emotionally deep dramas, there's something for everyone in the world of anime.

These anime have showcased the power of love, friendship, and human connection. Anime helps us see the world and characters in a way that is meaningful and touching. I hope these recommendations have inspired you to check out some of these amazing series or to revisit your old favorites. Happy watching!

If you want more recommendations, just ask! Or if you want to give your own recommendations, just comment. Always happy to hear from you.