The Most Unique Art Styles In Anime

Jonah Dorrance
Updated July 11, 2024 134.4K views 27 items
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6.3Kvoters28.6Kvotes
Voting Rules
Vote up the anime shows with truly unusual and striking visual styles.

Anime as an art style is already entirely unique and recognizable, but there are some shows taking this style to the next level. These series possess visually distinctive approaches to anime, building upon the style in the same way van Gogh built upon the impressionist movemnt. Kabaneri of the Iron Fortress and Mob Psycho 100 were among the 2016 award nominees for Crunchyroll’s “Best Animation” category, and Ping Pong: the Animation secured the win for the 2015 Tokyo Anime Award for “Animation of the Year.”

Award-winning or not, these shows are worth checking out to see the many ways in which anime has stepped out of the box-and in a variety of genres to boot. From the stunning underwater landscape of A Lull in the Sea to the abstract university days of Tatami Galaxy, the incredible worlds of these series guarantee both a captivating visual stimulus and original stories.

Over 6.3K Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of The Most Unique Art Styles In Anime
This list is dynamically ranked based on user voting. The order reflects the consensus of our voters and is not influenced by paid placements or editorial bias.

  • Jojo's Bizarre Adventure

    In Jojo's Bizarre Adventure, style meets absurdity as battles and intrigues unfold across generations in the Joestar family with stunning panache. The stark, bright colors against deep contrasted shading give characters such as Dio Brando an almost comic book effect, accentuating the exaggerated physical traits and action-filled moments.

    1,789 votes
    Truly unique?
  • Tatami Galaxy
    • Photo:
      • Tatami Galaxy
      • Madhouse

    The Tatami Galaxy weaves a metaphysical narrative around Watashi and his tumultuous relationship with love interest Akashi. With its art style echoing traditional Japanese block prints, its detailed settings stand apart from typical anime fare, warping reality into a fantastical landscape where every scene is a potential painting.

    844 votes
    Truly unique?
  • Mob Psycho 100
    • Photo:
      • Mob Psycho 100
      • Bones

    Mob Psycho 100 is a synergy of humor and heartfelt emotion embodied by Shigeo "Mob" Kageyama and his mentor Reigen Arataka. Its sketch-like, frenzied animation amplifies the psychic phenomena happening on-screen, conjuring dazzling spectacles that feel raw and incredibly alive.

    1,411 votes
    Truly unique?
  • Panty & Stocking with Garterbelt
    • Photo:
      • Panty & Stocking with Garterbelt
      • Gainax

    A mix of lewd humor and sharp satire, Panty & Stocking with Garterbelt centers on the chaotic adventures of Panty Anarchy and her sister Stocking. Drawn heavily in the style of Western cartoons, this series integrates a wild pop-art aesthetic quite distinct among its peers.

    1,004 votes
    Truly unique?
  • Afro Samurai

    Afro Samurai tells the intense story of Afro, eternally hunting for vengeful justice on Justice, the man who assassinated his father. This bleak tale showcases an artistic fusion of manga and hip-hop culture resulting in an unconventional visual feast featuring smooth lines and surreal landscapes.

    866 votes
    Truly unique?
  • Ping Pong the Animation

    Bringing table tennis to life like never before, Ping Pong the Animation uses its minimalist, sketchy designs to draw out characters’ emotions. It immerses you in the introspective journeys of Peco and Smile, their rivalry becoming a metaphor for the vicissitudes they confront.

    698 votes
    Truly unique?