Did you know that in 2016 there were a total 365 anime’s created? 2016 was considered the strongest year for anime in the history of the medium. Anime went from just a hobby to an absolute global powerhouse. Yuri On ice, My Hero Academia, Twin Star Exorcist, and Saikik were all popular anime’s in 2016. Pop culture is still dominated by these Anime’s and you can find merchandise in stores as evidence of there relativity.
The global phenomenon ” Yuri on ice”
“Yuri On Ice” was the global phenomenon of the year praised for its inclusive storytelling and realistic portrayal. The series revolves around the relationship between Yuri Katsuki and Victor Nikiforov. Yuri On Ice is a bittersweet topic for fans due to the cancellation of it in April of 2024. The anime was popular because the relationship between the two characters felt real and it was unique unlike any other anime created. It had relatable mental health issues and it connected to the viewers which also made it more popular. Unlike most sports anime’s, there wasn’t a “bad guy” to defeat which made the anime comforting to its viewers.
Launch of “My hero Academia”
My Hero Academia was a highly anticipated anime after coming out with its first season it became a very prominent anime series and international hit. The story follows Izuku Midoriya, a “Quirkless” teen who inherits powers from the worlds greatest super hero. and begins his journey at an elite academy for heroes. The anime appeals to its viewers because of the relatable underdog story and its human take on “superheros” as well as its villains. This anime continued to be popular and over time grew more and more fans and became a community.
The release of ” Your Name”
“Your Name” is about two teenagers, Mitsuha and Taki, who discover they are mysteriously swapping bodies and attempt to find one another. Released in August, the film became a global phenomenon and stands as one of the highest-grossing anime films of all time. This anime appealed to its viewers because of its breath taking visuals, universal themes of connection and iconic sound track. The anime provides an immersive and beautiful experience and is highly recommended by most anime lovers.
The Release Of “Saiki k”
“The Disastrous Life of Saiki K.” Is about a high-school student who secretly possessed secret physic abilities and over the course of the anime he desires to conceal these secrets and live a normal life. The anime appeals to its viewers because of its rapid-fire humor and absurdity.
reflecting back on 2016 it was clearly the year anime broke into the mainstream. it had over 300 shows released, it delivered a perfect storm of hits; from Your Name and Yuri on Ice to the massive cultural shifts sparked by My Hero Academia and Saiki K. These anime’s did more than just entertain; they connected people through relatable themes like mental health and perseverance. Even now, these anime’s remain relative and prove that this was the year anime evolved from a niche hobby into a permanent fixture of pop culture!
