The Winter 2023 anime season is almost at an end. In fact, shows like Don't Toy with Me, Miss Nagatoro 2nd Attack, The Angel Next Door Spoils Me Rotten, and The Fire Hunter have already aired their finales, and most series will conclude their runs before the end of March. Even though it probably will not go down as an all-time great, the season has nevertheless produced its share of memorable shows that will be discussed for years to come.

With over 40 anime airing during Winter 2023, keeping up with everything can be borderline impossible. Furthermore, some series take a few episodes to really find their groove; by the time these anime get good, they might have already been dropped from a viewer's rotation. Consequently, let's take a look at the best anime of Winter 2023 that are worth binging now that the season is nearly complete.

Special Mention: Kubo Won't Let Me Be Invisible & The Misfit Of Demon King Academy 2

A number of Winter 2023 anime have been delayed. Shows like NieR:Automata Ver1.1a and Unite Up! have returned from their hiatuses, but the same cannot be said for Kubo Won't Let Me Be Invisible and The Misfit of Demon King Academy 2 The latter two are indefinitely delayed, while the former is set to return in April 2023. Due to their statuses, these three series will not be in contention for the best anime of Winter 2023.

19 D4DJ All Mix (+/- 0)

Winter 2023 is quite giving when it comes to idol anime. Continuing from Fall 2022, IDOLiSH7 Third Beat! Part 2 is among the genre's strongest seasons in a long time, and it is not without company. Unite Up! has lost some steam due to a delay, but the anime is still a fairly interesting and grounded look into the industry. Technoroid: Overmind is, admittedly, not that great, but D4DJ All Mix is more than good enough to pick up the slack.

The CG anime sets itself apart by concentrating on idols backed by DJs, with the story introducing a couple of different girl groups. The current season finds the girls trying to stage an event per month, a process that involves creating new songs revolving around timely themes. Like its prequel, 2020's D4DJ First Mix, All Mix is fairly laid-back, almost feeling like a slice of life at times. While typically ending with a performance, most episodes are driven by the characters' charming banter rather than their drive to be the best of the best.

18 NieR:Automata Ver 1.1a (+/- 0)

Two of the biggest anime of Winter 2023 fall under the sci-fi umbrella: NieR:Automata Ver 1.1a and Trigun Stampede. The former has managed to exist alongside its source material rather. A-1 Pictures adaptation suffered a setback when its fourth episode was delayed for a couple of weeks, causing the anime to lose most of its early momentum. Since returning on February 19, 2023, Ver 1.1a has maintained a reasonably high standard of quality.

The story revolves around a seemingly endless war between androids and machines. The former fight for humanity's sake, while the latter have started to ape some human behavior. 2B and 9S are advanced YoRHa androids who are sent to help the resistance, although their mission quickly becomes ambiguous. Ver 1.1a has largely stuck to NieR:Automata's story, albeit with a few flourishes that expand on some aspects that are only touched upon in the game.

17 The Vampire Dies In No Time Season 2 (+/- 0)

The Vampire Dies in No Time might not be Madhouse's most well-known or acclaimed series, but the comedy anime is consistently amusing. The first season laid the foundation for Draluc and Ronald's formula, as the vampire and hunter learn to live with each other. As entertaining as the two leads are, the anime's supporting characters steal the show, something season 2 seems to recognize since the series is now basically an ensemble sketch comedy.

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Each episode is divided into two or three skits, and the weirder things get, the better. Draluc and Ronald might be the most "ordinary" characters in this universe, and they act as great straight men for wackier personalities such as Fukuma, Yomotsuzaka, and Handa. The Vampire Dies in No Time is not a groundbreaking or once-in-a-lifetime show, but it is a fun Winter 2023 anime that can bring a smile to a viewer's face.

16 The Fire Hunter (-4)

The Fire Hunter has been strange so far. The series envisions a world where humans burst into flames when close to fire, and most towns are barely managing to scrape by. Fire hunters are tasked with defeating monsters who contain an energy source, and they are accompanied by dogs. When a fire hunter dies saving a young girl named Touko, she accepts responsibility for the deceased man's dog and agrees to journey to the capital in search of his family.

Signal.MD's anime is a mixed bag. The show has an eye-catching art style that pops off the screen but is held back by occasionally subpar animation. The Fire Hunter's world-building is fantastic, painting a clear picture of a desperate society on the brink of annihilation; however, a lot of this information is delivered via underwhelming exposition dumps. Characters like Touko and Koushi are well-written and multi-layered, but they are also not big personalities. While not perfect, The Fire Hunter's positives outweigh its negatives, and season 2 has been confirmed.

15 Bofuri: I Don't Want To Get Hurt, So I'll Max Out My Defense. Season 2 (-2)

While there are plenty of anime about characters trapped in video game worlds, stories that remove the "trapped" part are relatively rare. Bofuri follows Maple as she starts her video game career by diving into a VR MMORPG called New World Online at the behest of her friend, Sally. In order to avoid getting hurt, Maple focuses solely on leveling up her defense stat, a decision that breaks the game and transforms the rookie into a powerhouse.

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Season 2 continues to chronicle Maple, Sally, and their friends' virtual journeys as they explore new layers, discover exciting loot, and take on bosses. Due to its premise, Bofuri is naturally devoid of any real tension since the worst that can happen is a quick respawn or a wasted session. Consequently, the anime opts for a relaxed tone that highlights its likable characters. This Winter 2023 anime is the ultimate comfort food.

14 Trigun Stampede (+2)

Trigun Stampede has struggled to step out of its cult classic predecessor's shadow, Madhouse's Trigun. Orange's new series is a more faithful adaptation of Yasuhiro Nightow's shonen manga, although that does not necessarily translate to a superior experience. Putting aside comparison to the '90s series, Trigun Stampede is undeniably one of Winter 2023's most visually stunning shows; in terms of animation, the anime stands alongside Land of the Lustrous, Orange's CG masterpiece.

Vash the Stampede has a reputation for bringing destruction with him, which makes him a target for bounty hunters on Noman's Land. Despite his villainous reputation, in reality, Vash is a kind soul who is incapable of hurting a fly. However, his brother is another story entirely.

13 Sugar Apple Fairy Tale (+2)

In a season overflowing with fantasy stories, Sugar Apple Fairy Tale has been somewhat lost in the shuffle. This is a shame, especially since the J.C.Staff anime is trying almost single-handedly to satisfy Winter's shoujo quota. In this universe, humans and fairies co-exist, although the former treat the latter as slaves. Ann Halford aspires to craft silver sugar like her recently deceased mother, and she hires a fairy bodyguard named Shall Fen Shall to accompany her on this journey. Due to suffering a lot at the hands of humans, Shall does not take Ann at her word when she says she will set him free once their job is done.

Sugar Apple Fairy Tale is built entirely on the strength of Shall and Ann's friendship, and both of these characters are well-defined as individuals. Earnest but slightly naive, Ann has good intentions, which put her at risk of being manipulated; however, she quickly learns from her terrible experiences. On the other hand, Shall starts out as cold but steadily warms up to Ann, while still retaining a mistrust for humans at large. Their story has been enchanting and memorable.

12 Don't Toy With Me, Miss Nagatoro 2nd Attack (+2)

Filling in Winter 2023's teasing quota, Don't Toy with Me, Miss Nagatoro 2nd Attack has completed its transition into a wholesome romantic comedy. While the opening season's debut episode can leave a bad impression due to Hayase's overzealous bullying of her senpai, Naoto, the anime quickly softens the girl's mean-spiritedness. Since then, she has come across as annoyingly playfully rather than unnecessarily aggressive.

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Ending on a really sweet note, season 2 is a contender for Winter 2023's most wholesome anime, something that might have seemed impossible after the pilot episode. It is not just that Hayase stops treating her senpai like a punching bag, but Naoto also undergoes a lot of growth. In some ways, he is one of the most realistic protagonists in anime rom-coms. While he feels nervous around Hayase, he does not let that stop him from pursuing his interests.

11 Tokyo Revengers: Christmas Showdown (+/- 0)

Starting exactly from season one's conclusion, Tokyo Revengers: Christmas Showdown finds Takemichi returning to a future that is somehow worse than ever before. Once again, the timid protagonist is forced to go back in time to try and change the Tokyo Manji Gang's trajectory, hopefully saving Hinata's life in the process. This time, Toman is on a direct collision course with Black Dragon, a violent biker gang governed by a vicious and manipulative leader.

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Christmas Showdown has generally offered more of the same; consequently, if someone hated the first season, the sequel is unlikely to change their mind. Well-meaning but frequently ineffective, Takemichi is a divisive figure who can be very frustrating. The anime also loves to highlight the protagonist's fragile nature to a fault, with most episodes involving a moment when Takemichi receives a few punches to the face. Popular characters like Draken and Mikey have taken a backseat in season 2 as well, although this has permitted people like Chifuyu and Kisaki to get more time in the spotlight.

Tokyo Revengers is a high drama series that can be very entertaining, provided someone tolerates Takemichi and does not mind suspending their disbelief.

10 In/Spectre Season 2 (+/- 0)

In/Spectre season 1 had a lot of things going for it: awesome protagonists, great dialogue, and interesting stories. However, the third arc overstayed its welcome to such an extent that it damaged the cour's overall quality. So far, season 2 seems to have fixed its predecessor's pacing issue. In a world where humans unknowingly exist alongside spirits, Kotoko Iwanaga serves as a bridge between the two. Yokai (and sometimes humans) turn to the human girl to help them solve their dilemmas, and she is insightful, sharp as a knife, and witty.

Season 2 is currently on its third arc, and the show has yet to produce anything resembling a miss. Along with being fascinating in isolation, each saga has been relatively different as well, ensuring things do not get repetitive.

9 Tomo-chan Is A Girl! (+/- 0)

Tomo-chan Is a Girl! has been consistent since its opening episode; consequently, if someone likes the pilot, they will probably enjoy the rest of the series. The rom-com centers around Tomo and Jun, two people who grew up together. Due to their long history, the latter does not really see the former as a love interest, and he treats her like a brother. As she is interested in potentially taking their relationship to the next level, Tomo would like to change that. Unfortunately, she is very inexperienced in matters of romance.

Tomo-chan Is a Girl! has a strong core roster of characters. Tomo and Jun are both hard-headed to an extent, and they complement each other beautifully. The leads are supported by the sarcastic Misuzu, the blunt Carol, and the good-natured Kousuke, all of whom might be funnier than the anime's protagonists.

8 Campfire Cooking In Another World With My Absurd Skill (+/- 0)

Campfire Cooking in Another World with My Absurd Skill has been a delight. The Winter 2023 anime season has its share of isekai stories, and while they each have unique features, they can blend together due to their near-identical settings. Although not an exception in that area, Campfire Cooking sets itself apart through the introduction of Feru, a powerful monster who becomes the main character's familiar.

Mukouda's special ability is that he can essentially use Amazon to order products from Earth, which he uses to cook food that blows away everything found in the fantasy world. After tasting the human's cooking, Feru decides to accompany Mukouda on his journey, provided he keeps feeding him. Weirdly enough, Mukouda and Feru have one of the season's most endearing friendships.

7 Tsurune - The Linking Shot - (+/- 0)

It took four years to happen, but Tsurune finally has a sequel. Winter 2023 has kept sports fans well-fed with Blue Lock, Yowamushi Pedal: Limit Break, and "Ippon" again!; the former two are Fall 2022 continuations, while the latter is decent but forgettable. As solid of a line-up as that already is, Tsurune - The Linking Shot - elevates the genre's output to another level, an achievement courtesy of Kyoto Animation's high standard of quality.

After qualifying for the nationals, Kazemai High School's Kyudo Club immediately jump into another competition, which ends up exposing the team's weaknesses and lack of cohesion. Similar to the first season, The Linking Shot is driven entirely by its characters' intra- and interpersonal conflicts rather than the thrill of matches. However, the anime is not devoid of the latter either.

6 The Magical Revolution Of The Reincarnated Princess And The Genius Young Lady (+/- 0)

The Magical Revolution of the Reincarnated Princess and the Genius Young Lady is the best isekai anime of Winter 2023, although a viewer would be forgiven if they completely miss the show's association with the theme. Title aside, Diomedea's anime barely mentions that it is isekai. In a world of magic, Princess Anis is born without an affinity for spells. Rather than just give up, she turns to science to bridge the gap; more importantly, she hopes to use her creations to fly among the stars, a dream inspired by her memories of a past life.

As the anime's title suggests, Anis is just one half of the equation, and she is accompanied by Euphyllia. The latter is a powerful magician who goes through an identity crisis after being dumped by Anis' brother. Together, they form a partnership that brings out the best in both of them. While losing a bit of steam during its middle stretch of episodes, the anime ended on an extremely high note, producing comfortably one of the best final chapters of Winter 2023.

5 The Angel Next Door Spoils Me Rotten (+/- 0)

When it debuted, The Angel Next Door Spoils Me Rotten seemed like a fairly typical wish fulfillment-type anime that follows an ordinary guy who suddenly finds his school's idol showering him with attention. While certainly having an element of fantasy, the romance anime dedicates a great deal of time to establishing exactly what Amane and Mahiru get from their newfound friendship. The leads have baggage that influences their attempts to form bonds with their peers, and these histories manifest during frank discussions that allow both characters to support each other.

Quite a few good romance anime aired during Winter 2023, and The Angel Next Door Spoils Me Rotten was probably the best of the bunch. While not the most visually compelling show, the series made up for it with well-written characters, flashes of humor, and a strong emotional core.

4 Buddy Daddies (+/- 0)

Rei and Kazuki are hired guns, and they take on a mission that results in them gaining a daughter named Miri. Moving past the somewhat convoluted set-up, Buddy Daddies is a charming anime about a found family who will do anything for each other. While not devoid of action, the show is predominantly a comedy that focuses on the fathers' attempts to adapt to their new responsibilities. While ever-present, the hired gun aspect takes a backseat in most episodes to make room for Miri's school activities.

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Buddy Daddies knocks its three main characters out of the park. Good-natured but carrying a lot of guilt, Kazuki warms up to Miri and his new role as a parent quite quickly. Conversely, the withdrawn and stoic Rei takes longer to make the transition, although he still cares about his new daughter. Last but certainly not least, Miri is a ball of precious energy who can be adorable, annoying, kind, loud, nuanced, and obtuse. She is a refreshingly realistic portrayal of a child, at least when it comes to her day-to-day behavior.

3 Is It Wrong To Try To Pick Up Girls In A Dungeon? 4 Part 2 (+/- 0)

Despite being a good watch since its opening cour, DanMachi struggled to produce a season that would cement it as a must-watch fantasy series. At least, that was the case prior to Winter 2023. Is It Wrong to Try to Pick Up Girls in a Dungeon? 4 Part 2 takes everything that worked in the previous entries, such as season 1's dungeon crawling and season 3's vicious action, and combines them to create a nearly flawless 11-episode run.

Sometimes, simplicity is key, and that is something that DanMachi 4 Part 2 exemplifies. The season sticks to two storylines, which are both fairly straightforward. To escape from the Juggernaut, Bell and Ryuu end up in the dungeon's deep floors, which they will need to traverse if they want to get out. Meanwhile, Bell's remaining party members are trying to find their lost leader, a journey that involves taking on a floor boss. Both threads find the heroes in desperate battles for survival, and a single wrong move could result in death. In the second half of the cour, Bell and Ryuu's arc takes center stage, a decision that completely pays off.

2 Bungo Stray Dogs 4 (+/- 0)

While always very good, Bungo Stray Dogs had a habit of falling just shy of greatness; at least, that was the case prior to season 4. The current cour wisely centralizes two of the anime's most mysterious characters: Ranpo and Yukichi Fukuzawa. These figures played a defining part in establishing Armed Detective Agency, and their pasts might bring on the organization's end. The detectives are targeted by Decay of the Angel, a group of powered people who are looking to tear down the agency as publicly as possible.

Blending mystery, action, and even a hint of humor, Bungo Stray Dogs 4 is the most complete anime airing as part of Winter 2023. The storyline is not a stand-alone experience and requires familiarity with previous seasons, but it is well worth watching all of those episodes just to consume the fourth season.

1 Vinland Saga Season 2 (+/- 0)

Vinland Saga's opening season was so brilliant that it set an almost impossible standard for its sequel to maintain. Set years after the events of its predecessor, season 2 has been a slow burn, which makes sense since the anime has to effectively reintroduce Thorfinn as he is in such a different place than he was at the end of the previous arc. Now a slave in Demark, the Viking works alongside Einar, a British man, as they chase their freedom. In the meantime, a war is brewing to determine the rightful king of England.

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Vinland Saga's character writing is top-notch, and that holds true for season 2. Effectively starting with nothing, Thorfinn is gradually coming to recognize that he might wish to live, a change stemming from his friendship with Einar. The anime's world-building is also fantastic, even though most of the current arc takes place on a farm in Denmark.

Where To Stream Every Winter 2023 Anime

As has become standard, the Winter 2023 anime lineup is spread across a range of subscription services. Crunchyroll and HIDIVE have the majority of the shows, but some series might become available on other platforms too. While this data could change over the coming days, the following table states each anime's current streaming information, along with their debut date.

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