- What criteria are used to determine the Anime of the Year winner?
Who won anime of the year? This question often arises during annual anime award seasons, igniting debates among fans about which series has set the standard for excellence in animation, storytelling, and character development. This article delves into the latest winner of this prestigious title, highlights significant contenders, and explores why these anime have resonated so deeply with audiences worldwide.

Understanding the Anime of the Year Award
The anime industry is flooded with numerous titles every year, and distinguishing the best among them requires various awards. The term “anime of the year” typically revolves around prestigious award events such as the Crunchyroll Anime Awards, the Tokyo Anime Awards, and more. These awards aim to recognize outstanding achievements in various aspects of anime including direction, music, voice acting, and storyline.
2023 Anime of the Year Winner
As enthusiasts eagerly search for the answer to the question, “Who won anime of the year?”, the 2023 festivities offered a fascinating reveal. The winner for 2023 at the Crunchyroll Anime Awards was “Attack on Titan: The Final Season - Part 2.” This series has been a staple in the anime community since its inception, earning acclaim for its intricate storytelling, mature themes, and dynamic characters.
Analyzing the Winning Series: Attack on Titan
Deep Narrative Themes
“Attack on Titan” engages with themes of freedom, oppression, and the moral complexities of survival. It explores the human condition against a backdrop of existential dread, making it not only thrilling but also intellectually stimulating. Viewers are drawn into a world where humanity battles against giant humanoid creatures, exploring what it means to be truly free.
Character Development
The depth of character development in “Attack on Titan” is another pivotal factor that contributed to its victory. Characters undergo significant transformations as they confront their fears, morals, and desires, which adds a crucial layer of complexity.
Artistry and Animation
The series is renowned for its stunning visuals and exceptional animation quality, exemplifying what modern anime has achieved in terms of artistry. The fight sequences are choreographed with precision, and the world-building is immersive, offering fans a captivating viewing experience.
Audience Reception and Impact
Since its release, “Attack on Titan” has not only garnered a massive fanbase but also has achieved critical acclaim. Social media reactions, reviews on platforms like MyAnimeList and Anime News Network, and discussions in online communities reflect the series’ impactful presence in the anime landscape.
Supporting Contenders for Anime of the Year
While “Attack on Titan: The Final Season - Part 2” took home the trophy, several other series also made a significant impact this past year. Understanding these contenders provides further insight into the caliber of anime released in 2022. Here’s a quick overview of other notable shows considered for 2022:
Title | Genre | Studio | Synopsis |
Jujutsu Kaisen 0 | Action, Supernatural | MAPPA | Prologue to the Jujutsu Kaisen story, focusing on Yuta Okkotsu’s curse. |
Demon Slayer: Entertainment District Arc | Action, Adventure | Ufotable | Tanjiro and friends face powerful foes in the Entertainment District. |
Spy x Family | Comedy, Action | Wit Studio | A spy must create a family to infiltrate a prestigious school. |
My Dress-Up Darling | Romance, Slice of Life | Cloversworks | A budding romance between a boy who loves crafting and a girl passionate about cosplay. |
Each of these contenders offers unique narratives and engaging characters, making them deserving of recognition in their own right.
The Implications of Winning Anime of the Year
Cultural Impact
Winning the title of “anime of the year” significantly impacts the series and the studio involved. It enhances the visibility of the series, often leading to increased merchandise sales, international viewership, and even the production of related media such as movies or spin-offs.
Future Releases and Expectations
For both fans and creators, this accolade builds anticipation for future releases. Creatives are often inspired to push boundaries and innovate following such recognition, driving the industry forward.
Audience Engagement
Anime awards generate considerable discussions and debates within fan communities. The question “Who won anime of the year?” often leads to in-depth conversations about favorites, storytelling methods, and character developments, enriching the community experience.
Exploring the Anime Voting Process
The voting for the “anime of the year” involves fans, critics, and industry professionals. Popular platforms usually invite fans to participate in voting, which adds a layer of engagement. The following factors play a role in determining the nominees and winners:
- Popularity: Audience viewership and ratings often play a significant role.
- Critical Acclaim: Reviews from anime critics provide insight into the series’ quality.
- Innovation: Originality and pioneering storytelling can set apart a series.
Future Trends in Anime
The anime industry continually evolves, marking significant trends shaping how fan engagements and expectations are formed. For instance, the increasing presence of international anime dubbing and streaming platforms implies that future winners may come from diverse storytelling backgrounds and cultures.
Looking Ahead: What Will the Future Bring?
As anime continues to gain global recognition, the question “Who won anime of the year?” will also evolve. Future awards may spotlight innovative series with diverse narratives reflective of a global audience. Emerging genres such as isekai, slice of life, and adaptations of webtoons from various regions could dominate future award seasons.
Conclusion
The excitement surrounding the question “Who won anime of the year?” is a testament to the passion and dedication of the global anime community. As exemplified by the 2023 winner, “Attack on Titan: The Final Season – Part 2,” the combination of narrative depth, character growth, and high-quality animation can resonate profoundly with audiences. Other notable contenders further illustrate the richness of content available today, ensuring that anime will continue to captivate viewers for years to come. As fans eagerly await future announcements, they remain more engaged than ever, shaping the landscape of this beloved art form.
For more insights into anime awards or to get involved in the discussions, check out Anime News Network and MyAnimeList.

