Sports anime are very inspiring for people who love sports. Watching the main character develop himself and get victory is one of the entertaining aspects of sports anime. These anime tend to be more realistic than other anime genres, therefore people can have more empathy for the characters. The best thing about sports anime is that they deeply show character development and the passion of people seeking victory. There are lots of good sports anime, however, today, we ranked the best sports anime for you.
Hajime no Ippo
Realistic portrayal of boxing: Hajime no Ippo is known for its realistic depiction of boxing. The author, George Morikawa, spent a lot of time researching boxing techniques and strategies to make the manga as authentic as possible. The fights are not only exciting but also educational, as they showcase the various tactics used in boxing. Throughout the series, we see the protagonist grow and evolve as a boxer and as a person.
Haikyuu!!
Engaging and intense matches: Haikyu!!. The author, Haruichi Furudate, does an excellent job of building up the tension during matches and making them feel like a battle. The characters are dynamic and lovable. The protagonist, Hinata Shoyo, is an undersized volleyball player with a big heart and a strong desire to win. The relationships between the characters are well-developed, and you’ll find yourself rooting for them to succeed.
Ping Pong the Animation
Unique visual style: Ping Pong the Animation has a unique visual style that sets it apart from other anime. The animation is unconventional, with the characters’ faces and bodies distorted during intense moments, which creates a sense of movement and emotion that is hard to replicate in other shows. The two main characters, Peco and Smile, have a complex dynamic that is both heartwarming and heartbreaking to watch. The characters learn to face their fears and overcome their weaknesses as they pursue their passion for table tennis.
Kuroko no Basket
Unique and diverse characters: Kuroko no Basket features a diverse cast of characters, each with their own unique playing style and personality. The protagonist, Kuroko Tetsuya, is an unassuming player often overlooked due to his lack of presence on the court. The basketball matches are intense and exciting, with each player using their unique skills to outmaneuver their opponents. The animation is top-notch, with fluid and dynamic movements that bring the basketball matches to life.
Ao Ashi
Beyond soccer, Ao Ashi also explores themes of self-discovery, passion, and perseverance. The characters are well-written and relatable, and their struggles and triumphs on and off the field make for a compelling story. The anime has a unique approach to soccer, focusing on the technical aspects of the sport and showcasing the beauty of the game through the eyes of the main character, Ashito Aoi.
Slum Dunk
Classic and influential: Slam Dunk is a classic anime that has significantly influenced the sports genre. The show has inspired countless basketball players and fans around the world and remains a beloved anime to this day. Slam Dunk explores themes of perseverance and hard work, showing how the characters overcome their weaknesses and push themselves to become better players. The anime has catchy and upbeat songs that enhance the excitement and intensity of the basketball matches.
Free
Themes of friendship and personal growth: Free explores themes of friendship and personal growth, showing how the characters support each other and help each other overcome their personal struggles. The characters’ movements are realistic and dynamic, making the swimming scenes visually impressive to watch. The characters in Free are diverse and likable, each with their own unique personalities and backstories.
Blue Lock
Now, forget about every sports anime on this list because this anime is unparalleled. Friendship? No, here, you must be the one who scores in order to survive. Blue Lock is an experimental soccer academy that aims to create the world’s best striker by pitting its players against each other in a competitive, cutthroat environment. The story is also filled with intense matches and strategic gameplay, making it a must-watch for any sports fan.
