2 – Schwarzes Marken
Plot: In an alternate version of the 1980s, the Cold War rages on and the East German Army’s 666th TSF Squadron, “Schwarzes marken,” (the German word for “Black Marks”) is a special-response force tasked with assaulting BETA forces. Because the BETA come in all shapes and sizes, carrying any number of advanced alien technologies, the Schwarzes marken must use the latest and most deadly weapons humanity can devise to drive them back. Why it’s good: Mecha fans should give this series a go. With stunning animations and well choreographed fight scenes, you really can’t go wrong with this series. The writing is well done enough to give the anime a kind of sense of realism despite the fact that it’s littered with mecha-on-monster action.
1 – Myriad Colors Phantom World (Musaigen no Phantom World)
Plot: Due to the accidental release of an experimental virus, the human brain chemistry changed to allow everyone to perceive extra-dimensional beings called “Phantoms.” In addition, certain children have developed special powers that allow them to fight and seal away these phantoms. As if high school life wasn’t hard enough. Why it’s good: Yes, it’s a high school battle harem anime – basically one of the most used scenarios – but there’s something about Myriad Colors Phantom World that makes it stick out. The animation is absolutely gorgeous, the characters are all quirky and likable and it’s just all around entertaining. The only con about the series is that the story does seem somewhat unfocused, so in the mean time, just enjoy the beautiful animation.
BONUS PICK: Grimgar of Fantasy and Ash (Hai to Gensuo no Grimgar)
Plot: “Awaken…” The only thing they seem to remember before awakening in a strange building in a medieval landscape, enshrouded by darkness. They can’t remember anything besides their names and are suddenly thrust into a strange world where they have to group up with strangers to make a living. Here, they learn just what it means to live, but what does it entail if their party can’t even defeat the weakest of Monsters? Well, there you have it; the Top 5 animes you need to be watching right now. How about you – what are some of your faves that people need to know about? Tell us below!