Aside from the big anime shows that dominate the adventure-themed anime genre, such as One Piece, Fullmetal Alchemist, JoJo, Naruto, Fairy Tail, SAO, Bleach, and, of course, Dragon Ball, we've compiled a list of 20 of the newest and best adventure anime to watch in 2023.
Are you one of those anime enthusiasts who want to watch something other than the most popular titles?
Now, you don't have to look any further because this article got you covered! Let's put the pedal to the metal and set out on an exciting adventure!
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Castlevania
Castlevania is a Netflix-released adventure anime that many recommend watching despite having no prior knowledge of the Castlevania games or universe.
The anime is a blend of dark fantasy, adventure, action, thriller, and a touch of romance.
Even if viewers are unfamiliar with the source material, Castlevania has successfully immersed the audience in an easy-to-follow plot narrative.
Castlevania is not confusing enough to drag viewers down a rabbit hole unlike other anime shows based on games.
The anime follows Trevor Belmont, a vampire hunter, as he embarks on an exciting journey to fight vampires and otherworldly beasts led by Count Dracula.
Together with the witch, Sypha Belnades, they engage in an adventure reminiscent of old video games.
Sabikui Bisco
With its strange and intriguing premise, Sabikui Bisco takes a fairly unique approach to the fantasy adventure genre.
Even just reading the synopsis of this anime will pique someone's interest and make them want to watch it.
When viewers begin watching the series, they will be greeted by a flurry of well-written characters, flowing animation, and a fantastic opening and closing song.
The anime is set in post-apocalyptic Japan, where everyone has turned to dust after a violent surge of mushroom-spore-filled wind has swept the country.
It tells the story of Bisco Akaboshi, a mushroom grower who has gone rogue as a result of his profession.
Bisco set off on a quest to hunt "Sabikui", a fabled mushroom that is claimed to be capable of eradicating and devouring all types of dust.
READ MORE: Will There Be a Season 2 of Sabikui Bisco?
Shingeki no Bahamut
Demons, angels, gods, and mankind all clash in this epic story. Doesn't that already sound intriguing?
But hold on, there's more! You can expect a lot of visually beautiful animation and edgy character designs, not to mention the alluring backdrops that will enhance your viewing experience.
Shingeki no Bahamut begins with a narrative about a big and dreadful dragon that the gods and demons sealed up with a joint key.
The gods and the demon each had their own half of the key, and the two factions were at peace.
But fate steps in when one girl steals the god's portion of the key, and the rest is history.
With the threat rising, a group of unexpected heroes must forge their own path between the gods and the demons.
Tower of God
Tower of God is a Korean fantasy adventure anime that has gotten a lot of attention from both webtoon fans and the vast majority of the anime community.
According to fans, it is one of the first and only anime adaptations that is faithful to the Korean manhwa of the same name, which explains the high expectations.
Tower of God's greatest strength is world-building, which is crucial in most adventure anime shows to date.
This show is a passable anime for a decent watch, with a unique character design, impressive character abilities, and enjoyable action sequences.
It tells the story of Bam and Rachel, two friends who venture into the humongous tower of God, which is said to hold everything at its peak.
While Rachel strives to reach the top of the tower, Bam wishes for Rachel to remain by his side.
ALSO READ: Best Korean Anime to Watch
Golden Kamuy
Golden Kamuy is a wonderful adventure anime that explores the themes of war and survival.
Aside from being one of the best adventure anime, the show's strength stems from its flawlessly written historical narrative, which goes far beyond the concepts of war and survival.
This adventure anime follows Sugimoto, a Japanese-Russo war survivor, on a historical journey.
Golden Kamuy's premise is a promising and unique narrative that is built on historical elements.
Fortunately, the anime was brilliantly done, with the right direction and pacing.
READ MORE: The Best Historical Anime to Watch
KonoSuba
KonoSuba is an adventure anime that viewers will either despise or adore due to its art style.
While some people are offended by the character designs, others believe that they complement the show's horrific and ridiculous content.
Some even go so far as to say that it was the series' highlight, particularly its distorted and out-of-the-ordinary animation, which successfully emitted the anime's humor and emotions to the audience.
As of this writing, KonoSuba remains a top-tier adventure anime that shines with more comedy and humor than others.
Apart from the running gags in the series, the anime has successfully carried its source material.
KonoSuba follows the untimely death of Kazuma Sato as he is isekai'd in an MMORPG world and embarks on a ridiculous journey with his dysfunctional adventurer's squad, which consists of a goddess, a crusader, and an archwizard.
ALSO READ: Does Kazuma Defeat the Demon King?
Little Witch Academia
Little Witch Academia is and will always be a masterpiece of the adventure anime genre. It's a type of anime that not only entertains and thrills viewers but also captures and touches their hearts.
Furthermore, the anime has a heartfelt narrative that will leave the viewers with more tears than they can count.
This adventure anime provides a genuinely amazing experience that captivates viewers from the very first episode to the very last.
Aside from the fact that each episode of this adventure anime is noteworthy, and every minute is meaningful.
The plot of Little Witch Academia is beautifully crafted, and its twists and turns will surprise anyone.
The story follows Akko Kagari, an aspiring witch, as she embarks on a magical journey to fulfill her dreams despite having no magical background.
In an unexpected turn of events, Akko comes across the potent magical relic left by the witch Shiny Chariot, known as Shiny Rod.
Goblin Slayer
Goblin Slayer is an excellent adventure anime, not to mention full of controversy, with some of the best plot twists, background scenes, well-written character dynamics, and well-animated fighting scenes.
Despite its dark premise, the anime has proven to be entertaining and exciting to watch.
Goblin Slayer is a must-see for anime fans, with themes such as profanity, gore, MMORPGs, and dark fantasy adventure.
The anime follows a lone hero who makes a living by exterminating goblins.
He then embarked on a journey to form his own Goblin-slaying squad while also defending the villagers from goblin attacks.
Laid Back Camp
Laid Back Camp is an adventure anime that is one of the best-kept secrets in the genre. It is a heartwarming and soothing anime that keeps viewers entertained and compelled to watch episode after episode.
It's a unique take on the adventure anime genre, allowing viewers to immerse themselves in a one-of-a-kind camping experience.
Despite its simple plot narrative, Laid Back Camp has a lot to offer that will meet and exceed everyone's expectations.
Having said that, this adventure anime will be remembered as one of the best in its genre.
The anime follows Rin Shima, a young girl who enjoys camping and frequently bases herself at the foot of Mt. Fuji.
One fateful day, the lost Kagamihara Nadeshiko intrudes on Rin's camping trip. The rest is history, as the two began to bond in between camping trips.
Dororo
Dororo is a fantastic adventure anime that delves into the world of demons and samurai.
Despite its somewhat fast-paced narrative, the anime perfectly captures the elements of comedy, action, and even a touch of drama to balance the show's themes.
The anime gets off to a strong start with a solid foundation, intriguing plot revelations here and there, and beautifully crafted world-building that entices viewers to find out and learn more about the story.
Aside from that, the anime's opening and ending songs are fantastic, as are the key designs and animations.
The anime tells the story of Hyakkimaru, a mutilated ronin who is forced to exterminate demons in order to obtain his missing body parts.
He is accompanied on his gruesome adventure, which includes encounters with ghouls and demons, by an orphan thief named Dororo.
Dr. Stone
Dr. Stone is an anime that combines shounen, adventure, fantasy, sci-fi, and comedy elements to make education fun.
It also raises the importance of world-building to a new level, as the anime deals with a lot of technology, science, and civilization-building.
On that note, if you enjoy "EDUtainment" shows, Dr. Stone is an excellent choice.
The anime also includes opposing ideologies, which will serve as the narrative's solid foundation.
Moreover, Dr. Stone is a refreshing anime with unique storytelling that will keep viewers interested.
The anime takes place in a post-apocalyptic world in which everything has turned to stone after a mysterious ray of magical light appears in the sky.
The plot then shifts to Senku Ishigami, a 15-year-old prodigy, and his friends as they attempt to rebuild the world to its former glory.
Kino's Journey: The Beautiful World
Kino's Journey: The Beautiful World is a remake of the same-named 2003 adventure anime.
As viewers follow Kino and his escapades from one location to another, the animation creates a laid-back and pleasant atmosphere for the viewers to enjoy.
Although the original anime is a better recommendation, the reboot is a great watch if you just want another iteration of the anime.
Those who haven't seen the original anime will be able to have a decent viewing experience without feeling compelled to figure out what went wrong in the 2017 reboot.
A Place Further than the Universe
Everyone should watch the masterpiece of an art form that is A Place Further than the Universe, an adventure anime. It's a lovely anime that makes viewers feel good after a long day at work.
Also, it's one of many great shows that have surprised anime fans with how well they execute the anime's emotional appeal to the audience.
Trust me when I say that this anime is a tearjerker that will inspire you to embark on your own epic adventure!
Having said that, A Place Further than the Universe has an undeniably strong impact on viewers, prompting them to give it a ten out of ten rating.
A Place Further than the Universe follows Mari Tamaki, a high school student who wants to make the most of her youth but is afraid to do so.
One day, she meets Shirase Kobuchizawa, a girl who has been saving up for a trip to Antarctica in search of her missing mother.
That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime
Aside from the well-written main character, That Time I Got Reincarnated as Slime successfully manages the elements of an adventure anime.
This is one of the few times when the audience will not genuinely think that the MC is an overpowered character shielded by plot armor.
Aside from that, the anime perfectly captures the key component of world-building.
Moreover, this anime is so good that it provides viewers with an interesting adventure filled with reasonably good magical abilities in an intriguing world.
The anime follows a salaryman who is slain and reincarnates as a slime with special skills in a fantasy realm, where he collects allies to build his own nation of beasts.
The Promised Neverland
The Promised Neverland takes a different route, leaning more toward the psychological horror anime genre.
However, it is still deserving of inclusion on this list because the adventures of Emma, Ray, and Norman are depicted in the anime's second installment.
If you haven't seen the anime yet, I recommend that you watch it straight away.
While manga fans may be frustrated by the anime's rather clean and crisp visual designs and internal monologue cuts, The Promised Neverland is nevertheless worth praising for the sheer impact of its thrilling components.
But forget about the second season; we all need a proper follow-up to the incredible first season!
The anime follows three gifted children, Ray, Norman, and Emma, at an isolated, idyllic orphanage in the middle of nowhere.
They all thought the place they were staying in was a sanctuary for orphan children like them at first, but that was before Emma and Norman discovered the gruesome truth about their safe haven.
The three children, as determined as ever, devise an escape plan in order to save their lives and discover the world outside the orphanage.
Ranking of Kings
Bojji may be an adorable prince, but he is full of enthusiasm and is willing to go the extra mile to earn the king's position.
Witness Bojji's development, adventures, and transformation into a better character in Ranking of Kings.
Together with his partner, Kage, they go on a once-in-a-lifetime journey that will put their friendship to the test through ups and downs.
Ranking of Kings may appear to be a simple animation aimed at children, but it hides a surprisingly sophisticated and unpredictable story.
Astra Lost in Space
Do you enjoy space exploration and discovering new planets? In Astra Lost in Space, you'll join eight high school students on a space adventure as they try to find their way home after being attacked by a mystery orb.
Despite having only 12 episodes, Astra Lost in Space manages to captivate viewers with its world-building, intriguing plot, and endearing characters.
It's a whole new world in Astra Lost in Space as you explore and learn about several planets with varied ecosystems!
To Your Eternity
You will not be prepared for what To Your Eternity has in store for you! When you begin watching this anime, you'll be taken on an emotional roller coaster that will leave you with tears in your eyes.
In To Your Eternity, a seemingly cosmic being released a strange orb that can take the form of anything it comes across.
From becoming a rock to a wolf to a young human being, the orb encounters a variety of people and situations that make a significant difference to the story and leave a lasting impression on the viewers.
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Made in Abyss
Made in Abyss has a cult following among anime fans. During its peak, the anime community voted it as a contender forĀ the best anime of the year.
Perhaps this says a lot about the anime's strong reputation, which makes it a must-see for any anime fan.
While the anime began smoothly, the show takes a drastic turn in the subsequent episodes, making it interesting to watch.
While it appears to be very subtle from the promotional poster, Made in Abyss undoubtedly surprised everyone with its twisted storytelling that no one saw coming.
The anime follows the adventures of Riko, an aspiring Delver, and Reg, a humanoid robot, as they embark on a perilous journey to solve the mysteries of the cave system.
READ MORE: Do Riko and Reg End Up Together?
Vinland Saga
Travel from Iceland to Vinland as the young and vengeful Thorfinn embarks on a once-in-a-lifetime quest.
Vinland Saga is not for the faint of heart, since Thorfinn's voyage is filled with sorrow, pain, and violence.
Thorfinn must overcome a number of personal challenges before he can go to Vinland and be at peace with his family.
He had no choice but to seek vengeance for his father's death at the hands of Askeladd and his gang of mercenaries, and so his quest for vengeance starts.
ALSO READ: Will Thorfinn Ever Fight Again?
Adventure anime are well-received by fans all over the world, which is why Japanese animation studios continue to produce some of the best shows ever.
In fact, the number of adventure anime shows has reached new highs, second only to the action anime genre.
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