Otaku: Anime takes America by storm

Jesse O. Walls
Executive Editor of New Media

When Astro Boy first aired in 1963, America experienced its first taste of anime – and it was well received. The decades that followed have shown a steady increase in the popularity of anime and other oriental culture, and since the 1980s the otaku subculture has become more prevalent in the states. Now more than 50 years since its arrival in the United States, let’s look back at some of the most memorable series available in the U.S. Here are my top favorites.

Kanon (2006)

In the mood for a little romance with a bit of mystery? Kanon is a beautiful and heart wrenching story that keeps the audience addicted until the end. Having some aspects of comedy, the main appeal of this show is the drama and how it pulls at the heart strings throughout the series.

School Rumble (2004)

A romantic comedy that is probably the most hilarious anime out there, School Rumble is based on a shonen manga series by Jin Kobayashi. Boasting two full seasons released in America, and a third, two-episode, season in Japan (which American fans are waiting for), the series follows the relationships of high school students, most notably the two main characters, Kenji Harima and Tenma Tsukamoto.

Full Metal Panic? Fumoffu (2003)

Falling between the first season of Full Metal Panic! and Second Raid, this anime took a different approach to the other two in the series. While focusing on the same characters, instead of putting its attention on the mecha combat and political undertones, it became a romantic high school comedy that fans of anime such as School Rumble would love.

Mars Daybreak (2004)

A sci-fi anime series focused on the notorious pirate ship ‘the Ship of Aurora’, Mars Daybreak combines comedy, mecha and romance for an anime sure to please any otaku taste. Set on Mars, the story revolves around reluctant pirate Graham River, who accidently becomes a member of the crew.

Witch Hunter Robin (2002)

A touch darker than the other anime on the list, Witch Hunter Robin revolves around a young craft user named Robin who joins the STN-J to hunt witches who abuse their powers. Along the way she starts to unravel the mysteries surrounding the STN-J, and soon finds herself the hunted. A supernatural series with plenty of occult action, this is definitely a must-see for any anime fan. Agree with this list? Are there any anime that should be added? Tweet us your favorite anime @CS_NewsNet using the hashtag #AnimeAmerica.

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