Hidden Masterpieces Every Anime Fan Should Experience at Least Once
Anime has exploded into mainstream culture, but in the shadows of blockbuster hits like Attack on Titan, Demon Slayer, and Jujutsu Kaisen, many masterpiece-level shows remain underrated. These series deliver exceptional storytelling, emotional depth, and unforgettable characters — yet never received the global attention they deserved.
If you’re searching for anime that go beyond clichés and leave a deep impact, here are the Top 9 Underrated Anime You Must Watch Before You Die, featuring both your selections and additional gems chosen with internet research.
1. Pantheon
Genre: Sci-Fi, Techno-Thriller, Psychological
Why It’s Underrated:
Pantheon wasn’t widely recognized because it premiered on AMC+ instead of traditional anime platforms. Yet it offers one of the most intelligent sci-fi stories of the decade.
Why You Must Watch It
- Deals with Uploaded Consciousness and AI ethics
- Heavy emotional themes about family and humanity
- High-quality animation and suspense
- Thought-provoking storytelling similar to Black Mirror
Final Take:
A rare western-anime hybrid masterpiece that every sci-fi fan should experience.
2. 86 — Eighty Six
Genre: Military Drama, Mecha, Sci-Fi
Why It’s Underrated:
Despite critical acclaim, 86 never reached massive popularity because of its serious tone, political depth, and heartbreaking narrative.
Why You Must Watch It
- One of the most emotional war stories in anime
- Incredible character development (Shin & Lena!)
- Haunting visuals and soundtrack
- Thoughtful critique of oppression and discrimination
Final Take:
86 is a modern classic — heartbreaking, powerful, and unforgettable.
3. Monster
Genre: Crime, Psychological Thriller, Mystery
Why It’s Underrated:
Regarded as one of the greatest anime ever made, Monster remains less popular due to its older art style and past availability issues.
Why You Must Watch It
- Features one of anime’s greatest villains: Johan Liebert
- No superpowers — pure psychological terror
- Slow-burn storytelling that rewards patient viewers
- Deep moral questions about good, evil, and humanity
Final Take:
A masterpiece that redefines the thriller genre. Monster is essential viewing.
4. Dororo
Genre: Dark Fantasy, Action, Drama
Why It’s Underrated:
Despite being a reboot of a classic manga, Dororo didn’t get widespread attention because it released alongside other major titles.
Why You Must Watch It
- Emotional, tragic story about humanity and identity
- Gorgeous animation and atmospheric world
- Samurai-era setting infused with demons and folklore
- Beautiful chemistry between Hyakkimaru and Dororo
Final Take:
A soulful, heart-wrenching dark fantasy you’ll never forget.
5. Odd Taxi
Genre: Mystery, Psychological, Drama
Why It’s Underrated:
Many skipped Odd Taxi due to its cartoonish animal character designs, not realizing it’s one of the smartest anime ever written.
Why You Must Watch It
- Complex mystery with shocking twists
- Brilliant dialogue-heavy storytelling
- Web of interconnected characters
- A legendary final episode reveal
Final Take:
Don’t be fooled by the art style. This is a modern mystery masterpiece.
6. Lycoris Recoil
Genre: Action, Slice of Life, Thriller
Why It’s Underrated:
Although popular within certain circles, it remains criminally under-watched globally.
Why You Must Watch It
- Stylish action sequences
- Great chemistry between the leads, Chisato & Takina
- A balance of comedy, slice-of-life, and dark thriller elements
- High production quality
Final Take:
A refreshing and stylish action series with surprising emotional depth.
7. Akebi’s Sailor Uniform (Editor’s Pick)
Genre: Slice of Life, School, Coming-of-Age
Why It’s Underrated:
This anime didn’t gain mainstream traction due to its quiet, wholesome nature — but that’s what makes it special.
Why You Must Watch It
- Stunning animation and art detail
- Relaxing, slow-paced storytelling
- Beautiful portrayal of school life and self-discovery
- Soft, emotionally warm atmosphere
Final Take:
A calming, visually beautiful slice of life that deserves more recognition.
8. Birdie Wing —Golf Girls’ Story
Genre: Sports, Drama
Why It’s Underrated:
A women’s golf anime may sound niche, but Birdie Wing is a creative, high-energy sports story filled with flair.
Why You Must Watch It
- Unique premise unlike any other sports anime
- Stylish character designs
- Intense golf battles with anime-level exaggeration
- A strong rivalry at the heart of the plot
Final Take:
A fresh, fun, unexpectedly addictive sports anime.
9. A Condition Called Love (Editor’s Pick)
Genre: Romance, Drama
Why It’s Underrated:
Despite being listed in several “underrated anime of the 2020s” articles, it remains underseen in the romance community.
Why You Must Watch It
- Deep and realistic emotional storytelling
- Explores trauma, vulnerability, and imperfect love
- Characters feel human, flawed, and relatable
- Beautifully crafted romantic tension
Final Take:
A mature, heartfelt romance anime that deserves far more attention.
Final Thoughts: Why These Anime Are Worth Watching Before You Die
Across genres — sci-fi, mystery, fantasy, romance, and slice-of-life — these 9 underrated anime share one thing in common:
They offer something deeper, more meaningful, and more artistically powerful than most mainstream anime.
These shows stand out because they deliver:
Rich emotional storytelling
Complex characters
Mature themes
Unique art styles
Intelligent writing
Powerful endings that stay with you
These aren’t just anime — they’re experiences that change how you view the medium.
If you want anime that truly touch your mind, heart, and soul, these nine underrated gems belong at the top of your watchlist.