Recommendations Archives - The Anime Basement

Nowadays, anime shows can drag on for many seasons due to their extremely complicated and long storyline. However, for those who have little time on their hands or simply love watching shorter anime shows, then you have come to the right place. Today, I will be presenting the list of the 15 Best Anime With One Season. These anime shows are exactly what they sound like, in that everything from the story, characters, to world-building, all unfolds within merely one-season. So if you're interested, strap up, sit tight, and check these awesome one season anime out. 15. Toradora Episodes: 25Season: Fall 2008Source: NovelStudio: J.C.StaffGenres: Slice of Life, Comedy, Romance, School Anime Synopsis: Ryuuji Takasu, a kind and soft-hearted young man in nature, often frighten others due to his intimidating face. Meanwhile, Taiga Aisak, opposite in nature, is a tiny girl with the personality of a young tiger: wild and aggressive. One day, upon hearing about Ryuuji's romantic problems with Minori Kushieda, Taiga decided to help him win the heart of her best friend. Unknowingly to them at the time, that event was the start of an adorable cat and mouse relationship. Best Anime One Season: Toradora tells an adorable love story between boisterous Taiga and the kind-hearted Ryuuji. Throughout the show, you will get a chance to see not only their personal dramas but how they overcome difficulties within their relationship. And what's more, the entire story from the build-up, climax, to the closure, are all done within one season of Toradora. Thus, making the show a must-watch one season anime of all time. 14. Tsuki ga Kirei Episodes: 12Season: Spring 2017Source: OriginalStudio: feel.Genres: Romance, School Anime Synopsis: Seemingly destined to be with one another, aspiring novelist Kotarou Azumi and track runner Akane Mizuno ended up in the same class. As events lead to another, the two gradually became close friends. Soon, their friendship quickly blossoms into an innocent crush. Under the beautiful full moon, Azumi found himself mustering his courage in order to confess his love toward Mizuno. Best Anime One Season: Do you love seeing cute and innocent middle school love over again? Then come check out Tsuki ga Kirei, one of the most heartwarming romance anime with only one season to show for. In fact, this show does not need a second season since the story wraps up quite nicely at the end. For those who love watching a cute and cheesy relationship unfolds before their very eyes, then Tsuki ga Kirei will be the perfect one season anime. Related: Top 20 Must Watch Drama Anime 13. Sakura-sou no Pet na Kanojo Episodes: 24Season: Fall 2012Source: NovelStudio: J.C.StaffGenres: Slice of Life, Comedy, Drama, Romance, School Anime Synopsis: Sorata Kanda was kicked out of his school's main dormitory due to a small incident with a stray cat. As a result, he was moved to Suimei High School's Sakura Hall, a dormitory filled with eccentric residents. There, Sorata, along with his close friend, Nanami, met the playboy Jin, genius programmer Ryuunosuke, and animator Misaki. Thus begun his dramatic and difficult life at Sakura Hall, a place where everyone has their own life and relationship problems. Best Anime One Season: Sakurasou no Pet na Kanojo tells the life story of the residence within Sakura Hall. Initially, the show might appear to be a comedy rom-com that features the fun love life of Sorata. Surprisingly, Sakurasou no Pet na Kanojo carries with it some of the deepest and most meaningful life lessons you will ever learn. Throughout the anime, you will witness its characters fail in life, only to get up and stand tall once more. If this one season anime sound like your cup of tea, then certainly go check it out. 12. Golden Time Episodes: 24Season: Fall 2013Source: NovelStudio: J.C.StaffGenres: Comedy, Drama, Romance Anime Synopsis: Banri Tada, a young college student possessing severe amnesia, has successfully been enrolled in a law school in Tokyo. As Banri wandered aimlessly around his university, he quickly bumped into Koukou Kaga, one of the most beautiful girls he has ever witnessed. Determined to get into a relationship and have an unforgettable year at college, Banri was up for numerous difficulties that challenged the truth about his identity. Best Anime One Season: Golden Time is not the everyday romance anime that leaves you wondering whether its characters will end up with one another. Rather, it focuses on how relationships are maintained and developed, as well as the difficulties that follow with romance. For those of you who love to watch these sort of shows, then within only one season, Golden Time will fill you in on all of its dramatic and climactic moments. 11. Kill la Kill Episodes: 24Season: Fall 2013Source: OriginalStudio: TriggerGenres: Action, Comedy, Super Power, Ecchi, School Anime Synopsis: When Ryuuko Matoi's father was murdered, the only lead left behind was one of his greatest inventions, the Scissor Blade. Using the weapon, Ryuuko arrived at the prestigious Honnouji Academy where its social hierarchy was strictly determined by Satsuki Kiryuuin and her four underlings, the Elite Four. There, Ryuuko must climb the harsh rankings in order to discover the truth about her father's death. Best Anime One Season: Kill la Kill is a chaotic one-season action anime that is able to provide you all the fan service you will ever need. Featuring a powerful female lead, the show tells Ryuuko's tale of revenge through its wide variety of nudity, sexiness, and epic bikini-themed-clothings. If you love fan service, great plot and character development, as well as intense fighting scenes, then Kill la Kill is the perfect one-season anime to watch. Related: Top 10 Anime With Female Lead 10. Shinsekai yori Episodes: 25Season: Fall 2012Source: NovelStudio: A-1 PicturesGenres: Drama, Horror, Mystery, Psychological, Sci-Fi, Supernatural Anime Synopsis: In the nearby future, mankind has awoken their hidden psychic powers through multiple genetic mutations. As 12 years old Saki Watanabe, a villager at Kamisu 66, received her powers, she was finally able to reunite with her friends at Sage Academy. However, her joy quickly turned to suspicions as she wondered what really happened to children who were unable to awaken their psychic powers. Along with her group of friends, Saki was about to find the ugly truth to Kamisu 66 and its people. Best Anime One Season: Within the world of anime, Shinsekai yori is perhaps known as the hidden gem for some. It contains quite a unique storyline, characters, as well as its constant mysterious and creepy vibes that keeps you wanting for more. Despite its initial slow start, throughout the show, you will get to know the ugly truth about Kamisu 66, as well as whether their concept of a dystopia was of any good in this case. 9. Nagi no Asukara Episodes: 26Season: Fall 2013Source: OriginalStudio: P.A. WorksGenres: Drama, Fantasy, Romance Anime Synopsis: Mankind has been living underwater since ancient times. However, that all changed when people started abandoning their underwater homes for the surface. As time goes by, this creates separate groups of humans: those who could breathe underwater, and those who cannot. Thus, when a group of friends including Hikari, Manaka, Chisaki, and Kaname decided to attend school on the surface, they encountered some interesting folks. This is a story about friendships, romantic dramas, and the regrets associated with maturity. Best Anime One Season: Nagi no Asukara is perhaps the most heartwarming and beautiful anime you will ever watch. Kicking off with an initially slow start, the world-building, as well as the characters, are quite well developed. As a slice of life romance anime, Nagi no Asukara contains everything from love triangles, friend-zoning, to even jealousy. If you are looking for a nicely-developed romantic story that unfolds within one season, then definitely check out Nagi no Asu kara. 8. Little Witch Academia Episodes: 25Season: Winter 2017Source: OriginalStudio: TriggerGenres: Adventure, Comedy, Fantasy, Magic, School Anime Synopsis: Kagari "Akko" Atsuko was finally able to achieve her dreams, and that is to attend the prestigious Luna Nova Magical Academy. However, magic turns out to be much more difficult than she expected. As a result, Akko was shamed for being the worst in her class. Wanting to prove her classmates wrong, she was determined to train in order to become the best witch ever. Best Anime One Season: Little Witch Academia is a one-season anime that will fulfill every single one of your childhood fantasies. It has everything, whether it be dragons, knights, or most importantly, witches. Through a light-hearted theme focusing on the life of a young and naive mage, Akko, Little Witch Academia unfolds perfectly within one season. If you're looking for a short anime with an amazing and fun plot, then consider checking out this anime will be your best bet. 7. Plastic Memories Episodes: 13Season: Spring 2015Source: OriginalStudio: Doga KoboGenres: Sci-Fi, Drama, Romance Anime Synopsis: After failing his college entrance exam, Tsukasa Mizugaki, fortunately, was able to land a job at Sion Artificial Intelligence Corporation. SAI Corp, for short, is a company that creates and maintains "Giftias", which are highly intelligent humanoid androids. There, Tsukasa was partnered with Isla, one of the most beautiful Giftias he has ever seen. As the two became close and deepened their romantic bonds, Tsukasa quickly learned of the 81,920 hours memory limit of Giftias. Thus, for the first time, he learned that happiness never lasts. Best Anime One Season: Plastic Memories tells a sweet yet heartbreaking tale about a romantic relationship between a human and an android machine. If you think you're prepared for what the show has to offer, then think again, because this anime will greatly surprise you. Featuring in-depth romantic progression, slice-of-life storytelling, and epic visuals, Plastic Memories is definitely a one-season anime worth checking out. 6. Charlotte Episodes: 13Season: Summer 2015Source: OriginalStudio: P.A. WorksGenres: Drama, School, Super Power Anime Synopsis: Yuu Otosaka has a unique ability, and that is to fully gain the consciousness of someone for five seconds. As a result, he was able to use this power to cheat his way through exams, scoring top marks. However, to his surprise, his seemingly secret ability was quickly discovered by two high school students, Nao Tomori and Joujirou Takajou. It was only after their fateful meeting that Yuu learned of Hoshinoumi Academy, an academy for students possessing supernatural ability. Thus began his new eccentric life surrounded by supernatural abilities that even science couldn't explain. Best Anime One Season: If you think Charlotte looks like every other cliche romance / school life anime, then think again. Despite its seemingly generic impression, Charlotte is a surprisingly dark show containing mature themes that will question your sanity once and for all. So if you're looking for great story progression, somewhat decent characters, and amazing art, Charlotte is the all-in-one package that you should be watching now. 5. Shigatsu wa Kimi no Uso Episodes: 22Season: Fall 2014Source: MangaStudio: A-1 PicturesGenres: Drama, Music, Romance, School, Shounen Anime Synopsis: When prodigy pianist, Kousei Arima, encountered boisterous but naturally gifted violinist, Kaori Miyazono, his passion for classical music was ignited once more. Yearning to accompany Kaori, the young pianist must struggle to get over his past trauma of being unable to hear his own playing. Thus begun Kousei Arima's musical journey in order to change his monotonous life once and for all. Best Anime One Season: At first glance, Shigatsu wa Kimi no Uso seems like your generic music anime where the main protagonist performed in numerous prestigious and winning every award there is. However, there is much more than meets the eye. In essence, Shigatsu was Kimi no Uso is an emotional drama that teaches you how to move on from past trauma, stand up for yourself, and most importantly, learn how to say goodbye. If you're up for these meaningful life lessons, then Shigatsu was Kimi no Uso is definitely a solid one-season anime to watch. 4. Anohana Episodes: 11Season: Spring 2011Source: OriginalStudio: A-1 PicturesGenres: Slice of Life, Supernatural, Drama Anime Synopsis: Jinta Yadomi was relaxing at home when suddenly, a white hair girl popped up out of nowhere to annoy him. Apparently, she was the ghost of Meiko "Menma" Honma who died in an unfortunate accident years ago. Now, in order to allow Menma to move on from the world, Jinta and his friend must reunite and fulfill her wish. However, there is a problem, and that is Menma herself does not know what she truly wanted. Best Anime One Season: If you are looking for an emotional and wholesome one-season anime to watch, then you can't go wrong with Anohana. Revolving around a group of disconnected friends, the show explores the very basis of humans relationships as well as the process of growing up. More importantly, Anohana also touches greatly upon the issue of saying goodbyes and mourning the loss of a great friend. Related: 6 Sad Anime That Will Make You Cry 3. Violet Evergarden Episodes: 13Season: Winter 2018Source: NovelStudio: Kyoto AnimationGenres: Slice of Life, Drama, Fantasy Anime Synopsis: The Great War, a conflict that lasted for four years, has resulted in thousands of casualties for both sides who were involved. Violet, a surviving soldier, awakens from a hospital with the memories of words from her beloved lieutenant: "I love you". However, war has stolen most of her human emotions, rendering unable to comprehend the meanings of such phrases. As Violet started her life anew working for "Auto Memory Doll" to transcribe mails, slowly but surely, she was learning of the numerous beautiful emotions that humans possess. Best Anime One Season: Violet Evergarden deals with the PTSD recovery journey of a surviving soldier from the devastating Great War. Despite its slice of life episodic story-telling, there is a great deal of character development within the show, creating a sense of progression that will constantly intrigue you to come back for more. Essentially, Violet Evergarden there presents a variety of heartwarming scenes that will arguably make you bust out crying. So if you're seeking a highly emotional one-season anime to watch, then Violet Evergarden will not disappoint. 2. Death Note Episodes: 37Season: Fall 2006Source: MangaStudio: MadhouseGenres: Mystery, Police, Psychological, Supernatural, Thriller, Shounen Anime Synopsis: One day, when Ryuk, an all-powerful-shinigami, became bored of the underworld, he dropped the Death Note into the human realm as a fun experiment. By seemingly pure chance, high school prodigy Yagami Raito picked up the notebook only to see it as a nasty joke. However, upon testing the Death Note, he quickly realized that it was indeed the 'real deal'. With the Death Note in hand, Raito decided to reform the world by killing every single criminal off the earth. However, unknowingly, his plan was about to be stopped by a young detective named L, resulting in a heated battle of mind games and criminology. Best Anime One Season: Death Note is a detective and psychological thriller that will constantly keep you on the edge of your seats. Arguably, due to its extreme popularity, the show contains many of the greatest outplays, mind games, and iconic scenes in the history of anime. Featuring an amazing story with numerous plot twists and its well-developed characters, Death Note is probably one of the best one-season anime you will ever watch. 1. Angel Beats! Episodes: 13Season: Spring 2010Source: OriginalStudio: P.A. WorksGenres: Action, Comedy, Drama, School, Supernatural Anime Synopsis: Yuzuru Otonashi awakens at a strange place only to have no recollection of himself except for his name. Upon encountering a girl named Yuri Nakamura, Otonashi quickly learned that he was dead and that this was the afterlife. Yuri then proceeds to invite Otonashi to her organization, Shinda Sekai Sensen, a group that wages war against an incredibly evil girl named Tenshi. However, after Otonashi's attempt in speaking with Tenshi, he quickly realized the truth about the people within the afterlife. Best Anime One Season: Initially, Angel Beats might come off as an extremely confusing anime where nothing really makes sense. However, trust me when I say that as the show progress, you will become extremely invested in the characters of the show. Angel Beats is an emotional roller-coaster that will show you the character's happiness, sadness, hope, and other emotions too complicated to describe. Ultimately, if you are considering watching Angel Beats, prepare lots and lots of tissue, because Angel Beats is a one-season anime show that mercilessly shed tears. Conclusion: That concludes the list of the 15 Best One Season Anime To Watch. Within this list, there is variety of different shows, from the more emotional and heartwarming, to the more thrilling and action-based shows. If you are an anime fan with little time on your hands, or simply prefer short and straightforward anime shows, then hopefully, this list was able to give you a large option to choose from. So what did you think of this list? Were there any other one season anime that you would like to see recommended? Feel free to leave your thoughts in the comment section below!