5 Overlooked 2020s Anime Series That Deserve to Be Called Masterpieces

The anime landscape of the 2020s has been dominated by major hits that have attracted enormous global audiences. Yet some of the decade's most interesting shows have received considerably less attention.

These overlooked titles span cosy slice-of-life stories, workplace-inspired fantasy, radio comedy and character-driven drama. For viewers searching beyond the biggest names, they offer plenty of memorable ideas and personalities.

1. Do It Yourself!! Turns Crafting Into a Celebration of Creativity

Do It Yourself!! takes place in a technologically advanced future, but its central idea is surprisingly simple: there is still something special about making things with your own hands.

The 2022 series follows Serufu, a cheerful but accident-prone student who becomes involved with her school's DIY club. The club is struggling to survive, giving Serufu and her friends a reason to work together while learning different crafts.

Rather than making technology the enemy, the anime creates an interesting contrast between an increasingly advanced society and the satisfaction of traditional handiwork. Serufu's mistakes are part of the fun, while her determination gradually helps her become more confident.

The relaxed atmosphere, distinctive artwork and focus on friendship give the series its appeal. Its conclusion also provides a fitting sense of closure as the characters reflect on their school experiences and what they created together.

2. Akebi’s Sailor Uniform Finds Beauty in Ordinary School Days

Akebi’s Sailor Uniform is a slice-of-life series that puts character relationships and everyday experiences at the centre of its story.

Released in 2022, it follows Komichi Akebi, a lively student who has always wanted to wear a sailor uniform. When she begins attending her dream school, she finds herself surrounded by new classmates and opportunities to make friends.

The anime does not need an elaborate plot to remain engaging. Fishing trips, sporting events, beach outings and other ordinary activities become opportunities to explore the personalities of Akebi and the people around her.

CloverWorks' animation is another major attraction. The studio gives remarkable attention to expressions, movement and small details, allowing familiar school experiences to feel unusually vivid.

According to the appeal commonly associated with strong slice-of-life anime, the strength here comes from spending time with the characters rather than rushing towards a major dramatic payoff. The result is a warm and visually polished coming-of-age story.

3. Kiyo in Kyoto Finds Purpose Through Food

Kiyo in Kyoto: From the Maiko House offers a gentle look at the world surrounding maiko while following two friends whose ambitions eventually take them in different directions.

Kiyo and Sumire travel to Kyoto hoping to become maiko. Kiyo, however, soon realises that the traditional performance path is not right for her. Instead, she discovers that cooking is where her abilities truly lie.

She eventually takes responsibility for preparing meals at the maiko house. What begins as an unexpected change in direction becomes a meaningful role, as Kiyo uses food to care for the hardworking residents around her.

Her relationship with Sumire also remains central to the story. While Kiyo settles into her work in the kitchen, Sumire continues pursuing her maiko training. Their contrasting journeys create a thoughtful message about finding personal fulfilment rather than measuring success against someone else's path.

4. The Dungeon of Black Company Puts a Greedy Spin on Isekai

The Dungeon of Black Company takes a familiar fantasy setup and gives its protagonist a very different motivation.

The 2021 anime follows Kinji, a man whose greatest ambition is not heroism or defeating a powerful villain. He simply wants to enjoy a comfortable life without having to work for it.

That dream disappears when he ends up trapped in brutal dungeon-mining work for a corporation. Instead of accepting his circumstances, Kinji begins plotting ways to improve his position and ultimately turn the system to his advantage.

His selfishness is precisely what makes him unusual. Unlike the stereotypical idealistic hero, Kinji is greedy, calculating and constantly thinking about his next scheme. His attempts to outsmart those exploiting him provide much of the show's comedy.

The series mixes fantasy adventure with a satirical take on exploitative workplaces. Kinji's plans eventually begin producing results, giving the story a satisfying payoff while keeping its deliberately unconventional protagonist at the forefront.

5. Wave, Listen to Me! Turns a Disastrous Breakup Into Radio Comedy

Wave, Listen to Me! follows Minare Koda, whose ordinary life takes an unexpected turn after a drunken rant about her former boyfriend is broadcast on the radio.

Her unusual personality immediately catches attention, eventually opening the door to a job as a radio presenter. What follows is a fast-moving comedy about work, relationships, mistakes and the unpredictable nature of live broadcasting.

Minare is far from the polished protagonist often found in conventional anime. She is outspoken, impulsive and occasionally chaotic, but those flaws make her feel considerably more grounded. Her struggles after a painful breakup also give the comedy an emotional edge.

The series offers an entertaining look at radio production while allowing Minare's personality to drive much of the action. Its conclusion also turns towards a more heartfelt appreciation of the industry she has entered.

For viewers who enjoy character-led comedies with plenty of energy, Wave, Listen to Me! is an especially easy series to overlook despite having a premise that stands apart from more conventional anime.