Must-Watch Boys Love Anime in 2023
Table of Contents:
- Introduction
- What is Boys Love Anime?
- Love Stage
- Antique Bakery
- Kyokaramau
- Loveless
- Super Lovers
- Junjo Romantica
- Heaven's Official Blessing
- Yuri on Ice
- Given
- Banana Fish
- Conclusion
Introduction
Boys Love, also known as BL or Sujoi, is a rising genre in the world of anime. It revolves around the narrative of love between two boys or men and offers a unique and different experience from other genres. In recent years, the demand for Boys Love shows has increased, prompting anime producers to focus on leveling up their coverage of this genre. In this article, we will explore the top 10 best Boys Love anime to watch in 2023. Whether You're a fan of BL or simply curious about this genre, this list will introduce you to some must-watch shows. So, let's get right into it!
What is Boys Love Anime?
Before diving into the top 10 list, let's briefly define what Boys Love anime is. Boys Love, often referred to as BL, is a genre that depicts romantic relationships between two male characters. It has gained popularity among various audiences, including LGBTQ+ communities and fans of romance anime. While Boys Love focuses on the narrative of love between boys or men, it is different from Yaoi, which includes explicit and graphic portrayals of adult relationships.
Love Stage
First on our list is Love Stage. This anime follows the story of Izumi, a nerdy outcast who comes from a family of celebrities. Izumi is torn between pursuing his dream of becoming a mangaka and following in his family's footsteps. One day, he accidentally meets Ichiju Ryoma, who mistakes Izumi as a woman and falls head over heels in love with him. Love Stage is a light-hearted BL comedy with romantic teasing elements. Although it is relatively short with only 10 episodes, it is a must-watch for every BL anime fan.
Antique Bakery
Next up is Antique Bakery, a unique and fresh take on the BL genre. Set in 2008, this anime revolves around two former classmates, Tachibana and Kichiru, and the genius protege baker, Onoyusuke. Kichiru, who owns the cake shop Antique, invites Yusuke to work for him. The story develops as Yusuke comes out of the closet and starts making advances towards Kichiru. Antique Bakery stands out with its solid storyline composed of comedy, angst, and realistic drama. It wows fans with its plot narrative, character development, and sublime voice acting.
Kyokaramau
Kyokaramau is an enjoyable isekai anime that offers romantic tension and boy-on-boy action for BL fans to appreciate. Despite being released some time ago, it remains a decent watch for anime enthusiasts regardless of their love for BL. The story follows Yuri Shibuya, who gets transported to another world where humans and mazoku coexist. Due to his black hair and eyes, he takes on the role of the next Maou and must solve the Kingdom's problems. Kyokaramau is perfect for any isekai fan, blending interesting plot elements with light BL elements.
Loveless
If you can set aside any social prejudice about BL, Loveless is a must-watch. This anime combines fantasy, angst, and the josei genre, Based on the manga by Kōga Yun. It centers around Ritsuka, a 12-year-old boy who becomes Agatsuma Soubi's partner in fighting an organization called Nanatsu no Tsuki. Together, they become fighters and sacrifices, investigating the death of Ritsuka's brother. Loveless stays true to its source material, offering interesting characters, unexpected twists, and enjoyable combat scenes.
Super Lovers
Despite its controversial history and heavy criticism from non-BL fans, Super Lovers has successfully spawned two seasons and an OVA since its release in 2016. Set in a year that marked the emergence and uprising of the LGBTQ+ community, Super Lovers tells the story of high school boy Haru and his adoptive younger brother Ren. With the responsibility of looking over Ren, Haru needs to break down his personal walls. Despite its fast pace, Super Lovers impresses with character development and plot progression and is a decent watch if you're looking for something feel-good.
Junjo Romantica
Junjo Romantica is one of the most popular BL anime series of all time. It has spawned three seasons and an OVA based on the manga by Shungiku Nakamura. The anime follows the story of Misaki and Usami, the tale between a student and his tutor. Misaki starts having confusing feelings and odd problems after reading Usami's explicit book about him. Although Junjo Romantica contains smut and explicit content, it is beloved for its comedy and romance. If you're a fan of the genre, this is a definite must-watch.
Heaven's Official Blessing
Heaven's Official Blessing is an action-adventure Supernatural Chinese anime that captures the Attention of viewers, including non-BL fans. It focuses on the Crown Prince of the Xian Le kingdom and his Journey to exercise ghosts from ascending to Heaven. Despite its BL elements, this highly anticipated Chinese anime grabs attention with its smooth animation, dynamic duo, and enjoyable narrative.
Yuri on Ice
Yuri on Ice is one of the most popular and heartwarming BL anime series. It features beautiful figure skating and follows the story of Katsuki Yuri, a Japanese professional ice skater on the verge of retiring. Everything changes when he meets the five-time consecutive Grand Prix champion, Victor Nikiforov, and his Russian protege, Yuri Plisetsky. With the coaching and guidance of Victor, Yuri continues to skate in the beautiful yet harsh reality of ice skating. Yuri on Ice showcases BL scenes while maintaining its focus on friendship, gorgeous skating sequences, and beautiful animation.
Given
Given, like Banana Fish, has received recognition and praise from many anime fans. It stands out with its interesting concept and fresh take on BL anime. Given revolves around Ritsuka Uenoyama, who is losing his passion for music. One day, he accidentally overhears the singing voice of Mafuyu, which changes his perspective on music. Given impresses with its fluid character development, well-animated sequences, touching moments, and beautiful music. Whether you're a BL fan or not, Given is a recommended watch.
Banana Fish
Finally, we have Banana Fish. Considered one of the best BL anime series of all time, Banana Fish offers a thrilling and rewarding experience for fans of the genre. Aside from its BL elements, the anime appeals to non-BL fans with its dark and Hyper-violent narrative, compelling characters, and catchy music. Set in New York, Banana Fish follows the story of seventeen-year-old Ash Lynx and the kind Japanese cameraman assistant, Eiji Okumura. Their fateful encounter leads them on a journey involving mysterious secrets. From action-packed scenes to tender moments, Banana Fish is a must-watch for both BL enthusiasts and anime lovers in general.
Conclusion
Boys Love anime has gained significant popularity in recent years, leading to an increased demand for captivating and intriguing shows in this genre. From Love Stage to Banana Fish, the top 10 anime discussed on this list offer a diverse range of storytelling, character development, and unique narratives. Whether you're a longtime fan of BL or a curious viewer looking to explore something new, these anime series are sure to captivate your attention and leave you wanting more. So grab some popcorn, find a cozy spot, and indulge yourself in the world of Boys Love anime.
Highlights
- Boys Love anime is a rising genre in the world of anime, gaining popularity among various audiences.
- Love Stage is a light-hearted BL comedy that follows the story of a nerdying outcast torn between pursuing his dreams and following in his family's footsteps.
- Antique Bakery offers a unique and fresh take on the BL genre, with a solid storyline and amazing character development.
- Kyokaramau is an enjoyable isekai anime that combines interesting plot elements with light BL elements.
- Loveless is a combination of fantasy, angst, and the josie genre, offering unexpected twists and pleasant combat scenes.
- Super Lovers, despite its controversial history, is a feel-good anime with character development and a decent watch for BL fans.
- Junjo Romantica is one of the most popular BL anime series of all time, featuring comedy and romance.
- Heaven's Official Blessing is a highly anticipated Chinese anime that captures attention with its smooth animation and enjoyable narrative.
- Yuri on Ice is a heartwarming BL anime with beautiful figure skating and a focus on friendship.
- Given impresses with its interesting concept, fluid character development, touching moments, and beautiful music.
- Banana Fish is considered one of the best BL anime series, offering a compelling narrative, complex characters, and catchy music.
- Boys Love anime provides captivating and intriguing stories that cater to the diverse tastes of viewers.
FAQ
Q: What is Boys Love anime?
A: Boys Love anime, often referred to as BL or Sujoi, is a genre that depicts romantic relationships between two male characters. It has gained popularity among various audiences, including LGBTQ+ communities and fans of romance anime.
Q: Are all Boys Love anime explicit?
A: Not all Boys Love anime are explicit. While some BL anime may contain explicit content, others focus more on the romance and emotional aspects of the relationships.
Q: Can non-BL fans enjoy Boys Love anime?
A: Yes, non-BL fans can still enjoy Boys Love anime. Many BL anime series offer compelling storylines, well-developed characters, and engaging narratives that appeal to a broader audience.
Q: What are some popular Boys Love anime series?
A: Some popular Boys Love anime series include Love Stage, Antique Bakery, Junjo Romantica, Yuri on Ice, Given, and Banana Fish.
Q: Are there any upcoming Boys Love anime to look forward to?
A: While specific release dates may vary, there are always new Boys Love anime series being announced. Keeping an eye on anime news and forums can help you stay updated on upcoming releases in the genre.