10 Anime with only one season, ranked shortest to longest

Contrary to popular belief, several anime with only one season can provide a complete and satisfying story. More often than not, these single-season shows comprise captivating narratives, unforgettable characters, and emotional depth. By focusing solely on storytelling without any unnecessary distractions, these limited series contribute to the overall plot and character development in every moment.

Thus, viewers can expect a rich and immersive experience as these powerful narratives, despite running for a single installment only, are sure to leave a lasting impact. Anime enthusiasts can follow the ranked list of 10 must-watch anime series with only one season that covers diverse genres and experiences—from heartwarming dramas to thrilling adventures. These anime showcase the brilliance of storytelling within the limited span of a single season.

From No Game No Life to Erased: 10 anime with only one season, ranked shortest to longest

10) Anohana: The Flower We Saw That Day (11 episodes)

Anohana: The Flower we saw that day is an anime with a single season, that was produced by A-1 Pictures and aired in 2011. It is a heartfelt narrative that revolves around a group of childhood friends who grew apart in the aftermath of their friend Menma's tragic death.

Years later, Jinta Yadomi encounters the ghost of Menma, urging him to fulfill her unfulfilled wishes. Through their reunion, these friends embark on an emotional journey, confronting buried emotions, regrets, and the profound impact of grief on their lives. Anohana skillfully captures the enduring power of friendship and explores the healing process with remarkable depth and authenticity.

9) Barakamon (12 episodes)

Kinema Citrus' Barakamon takes readers on a delightful journey through the life of Seishuu Handa, an incredibly talented calligraphy prodigy, who finds himself banished to a tranquil rural island. Interacting with a cast of eccentric locals, Handa gains fresh perspectives on life, creativity, and the true essence of calligraphy.

This heartwarming slice-of-life comedy anime with only one season began airing in 2014. It offers lighthearted humor and uplifting moments that will undoubtedly leave readers feeling refreshed and inspired.

8) Death Parade (12 episodes)

Death Parade (Image via Madhouse Studio)

Death Parade by Madhouse Studio started airing in January 2015, taking viewers on a compelling journey into the enigmatic realm of the afterlife. In a bar known as Quindecim, two recently departed individuals are thrust into a series of games that hold the key to their ultimate fate. As Decim, the astute bartender, keenly observes their true essence, complex moral quandaries and profound emotional revelations come to light.

This captivating psychological thriller anime with only one season prompts introspection and poses intriguing questions about the intertwined nature of life, death, and accountability.

7) Erased (12 episodes)

Erased, also known as Boku dake ga Inai Machi, by A-1 Pictures is a gripping anime that combines the thrill of time-travel with a captivating mystery. The story revolves around Satoru Fujinuma, an introverted manga artist with an extraordinary ability called "Revival." This power allows him to travel back in time and prevent tragedies from occurring.

However, when Satoru's mother is tragically murdered and he becomes the main suspect, Revival sends him 18 years into the past, back to his childhood days. His mission is to prevent a series of kidnappings and murders that haunt both his memories and society.

The anime with only one season mesmerizes its audience with its enthralling narrative, clever plot twists, and deep emotional character development. Viewers will find themselves on the edge of their seats as Satoru races against time in his quest to unveil the identity of the killer and ensure the safety of those he holds dear.

6) No Game No Life (12 episodes)

No Game No Life (Image via Madhouse Studio)

Step into the wondrous realm of Madhouse Studio's No Game No Life, where the remarkable siblings, Sora and Shiro, known as "Blank," have ascended to legendary status as masterful gamers in an alternative reality governed solely by games. Transported to this extraordinary domain, where all matters are resolved through strategic gameplay, their ultimate ambition is to challenge the revered God of Games and claim dominion over the entire world.

This captivating anime with only one season amalgamates vibrant visuals, intricate mind games, and a delightful blend of humor, culminating in an engrossing viewing experience. No Game No Life distinguishes itself through its innovative premise, skillful storytelling techniques, and imaginative portrayal of a vast universe shaped by the sheer power of games.

5) Angel Beats! (13 episodes)

Angel Beats! is an anime series by P.A. Works that captivates audience with its comedic moments and heartfelt drama. Set in an intriguing afterlife setting, it follows Yuzuru Otonashi, who finds himself in a mysterious school-like world. Joining the rebel group known as SSS (Shinda Sekai Sensen), he fights against Angel, the student council president.

Despite being an anime with only one season, Angel Beats! delves deep into the personal stories of the SSS members, their tragic pasts, and their unwavering determination to defy the system that controls them. This anime offers a powerful blend of emotions that will linger long in viewers' hearts.

4) Paranoia Agent (13 episodes)

Paranoia Agent (Image via Madhouse Studio)

Paranoia Agent, an anime with only one season by Madhouse Studios, dives deep into the psychological realms of its characters, delving into the immense societal pressures they face and exploring the profound ramifications of suppressed emotions. The series follows a string of unsettling attacks carried out by an enigmatic assailant named Lil' Slugger, while two diligent detectives, Keiichi Ikari and Mitsuhiro Maniwa gradually uncover disturbing connections between each victim.

Being an anime with only one season, a captivating narrative and insightful social commentary, Paranoia Agent offers a truly gripping and intellectually stimulating viewing experience.

3) Plastic Memories (13 episodes)

Plastic Memories (Image via Doga Kobo Studios)

Doga Kobo Studios' Plastic Memories is an anime with only one season. It is a captivating sci-fi romance series that delves into the complexities of human emotions and artificial intelligence. Set in a world where Giftia, androids with limited lifespans, exist, the story follows Tsukasa Mizugaki as he embarks on an emotional journey in the Terminal Service Department.

Alongside Isla, a Giftia left with 81 days to live, Tsukasa confronts the daunting task of retrieving expiring androids. Through its heartfelt narrative, this anime with only one season explores profound themes of love, loss, and the vulnerability of memories.

2) Serial Experiments Lain (13 episodes)

Serial Experiments Lain (Image via Triangle Staff Studio)

Triangle Staff Studio takes viewers on a captivating journey into the realms of technology, consciousness, and identity through the narrative of Serial Experiments Lain. The focal point revolves around Lain Iwakura—a high school student intricately entangled in a series of bewildering events, all interconnected by the Wired, a global communication network.

This thought-provoking anime with only one season challenges one's perception of reality and delves into existentialism while exploring the profound impact of technology on human connections.

1) Toradora! (25 episodes)

J.C. Staff Studios' Toradora! exceeds the typical one-season length, despite being an anime with only one season. However, its impact in a single run cannot be ignored.

This narrative revolves around Ryuji Takasu and Taiga Aisaka, two high school students with contrasting personalities. As they navigate their own love interests, an unexpected bond forms between them that leads to self-discovery and personal growth. Toradora! portrays the intricacies of teenage relationships through humor, warmth, and relatability.

These ten anime with only one season provide captivating stories, memorable characters, and emotional depth. They encompass heartwarming romances, thrilling mysteries, and thought-provoking explorations, showcasing the brilliance of anime narratives.