If you’re looking for the best short anime series to watch, there are plenty of amazing shows with just one season. These 12-episode animes are perfect if you want something quick yet engaging. Short anime often tells powerful stories without dragging the plot.
Many times we don’t have much time to watch many episodes and just don’t want to stress brains want to enjoy a sweet short series with some action and fun.
Whether you enjoy action, drama, or a mix of both, one-season anime series can deliver a complete experience in just a few hours. Some popular options include Erased, a mystery thriller, and Anohana, which focuses on friendship and loss.
For fantasy fans, No Game No Life and Made in Abyss are great choices. These shows leave a lasting impression without demanding a huge time commitment.
With only 12 or 13 episodes, you can explore diverse genres and discover memorable characters. If you’re short on time, these short animes make a perfect choice for your next binge session.
Why do most anime fans love to watch short anime series?
Most anime fans enjoy watching short anime series because they are easy to finish and don’t take much time. With busy schedules, people often prefer something they can complete quickly without feeling overwhelmed.
Short anime also tend to have tighter stories with fewer filler episodes, keeping viewers engaged from start to end. Fans like how these series focus on the main plot and develop characters without dragging things out.
It’s also easier to recommend short anime to friends because they don’t require a huge time commitment. For newcomers, shorter series are a great way to explore anime without diving into something long.
Overall, short anime series offer good stories, quick entertainment, and satisfying endings, making them a favorite among anime fans.
Must-Watch Short Anime Series Under 13 Episodes-
20. The God of High School-
The God of High School is yet another action anime where high school student Jin Mori enters into a martial arts tournament.
It is really beginning a real thriller with tough battles and cool powers, reminding you of Black Clover for fast-paced fights and many great themes on friendship.
The fighting scenes animation is pretty good, and the soundtrack helps to bring out the next level of excitement in the show. However, sometimes the plot feels a bit rushed as it is trying to balance too many martial arts, gods, and mysterious societies.
While the action is great fun to watch, character development takes the back seat. If you are looking for a short anime series, an action-packed series with lots of energy, this anime should be worth watching.
If you’re into shows that mix in power-ups and team dynamics.
19. Dorohedoro-
Dorohedoro is a gritty and wildly unique anime. It is set in a dystopian world where magic users and regular people coexist but clash. The anime story revolves around Caiman, a lizard-headed man with amnesia, and his friend Nikaido.
They hunt for answers about his strange transformation. Dorohedoro has a darkly comedic, gore-filled, savagely quirky vibe. The animation is raw and grainy to match the energy of this show.
Each character is complex and unpredictable, and the villains feel weirdly relatable. The show touches on identity and friendship but does not let that weigh it down; it is fast-paced and fun.
Anime managed to balance the serious with the absurd and laugh-out-loud scenes. It’s a rare, unique mix of horror, mystery, and comedy that keeps you hooked every episode.
If you like anime and are looking for a fresh short anime series, Dorohedoro could be a good one. It’s an underrated anime, but it’s always fun to watch.
- Imdb rating- 7.5/10
- Total Epiosdes- 13
18. Wind Breaker-
Wind Breaker is a solid anime for fans of action and high school stories. It follows Haruka Sakura, a strong and quiet guy who transfers to a new school known for its tough, fighting students. Instead of studying, these students protect the town from troublemakers.
The story feels simple but works because of its cool fights and friendships. The characters are what make this anime enjoyable.
Haruka is strong but also kind in his own way, and the people he meets add humor and energy to the show. The animation during the fights is smooth, and the visuals are clean.
While the story doesn’t dig deep into emotions, it’s easy to enjoy. If you like watching characters fight for respect and grow as a team, Wind Breaker delivers. It may not be unique, but it’s a fun watch for action lovers.
- Imdb rating- 7.1/10
- Total Epiosdes-
17. High School of the Dead-
High School of the Dead is an action-adventure anime that follows how a group of high school students survive during the worst apocalypse: zombies.
Teamwork is what helps those high school students to come out alive as their whole world crumbles. Keep moving, with loads of intense moments and challenges on the way to test their character’s courage.
The main cast is pretty relatable. Each of them has some special skill or perspective, and as the series goes on, you get to see how they handle all this chaos and danger around them.
The animation looks clean, especially in the action scenes, and the sound effects add to the tension. If you like stories with zombies, survival, and teamwork, this anime is worth a try.
It’s a short series, so it doesn’t take long to finish. Overall, High School of the Dead delivers solid entertainment for fans of the genre.
- Imdb rating- 8.1/10
- Total Epiosdes- 11
16. Anohana: The Flower We Saw That Day-
Anohana: The Flower We Saw That Day is a very short anime, but impactful. The six childhood friends drift apart over time due to the result of a tragic accident involving one of them.
Three years later, Menma’s ghost reappears, asking for help to let her go, and through reunion, the group confronts all their guilt, grief, and unspoken feelings.
It has only 11 episodes, so it is easy to finish. However, its emotional depth is unforgettable. The way the series depicts friendship, loss, and healing makes it real and relatable.
A simple story that connects well with you; an ending so powerful that you’ll not forget it. So, if you are searching for a short anime series with powerful emotions and a meaningful message, Anohana is definitely worth watching.
- Imdb rating-
- Total Epiosdes-
15. Noragami-
Noragami is a short anime series that’s easy to enjoy and hard to forget. It follows Yato, a minor god who dreams of becoming famous, but he’s broke and will do odd jobs for just 5 yen.
Alongside Hiyori, a human girl stuck between two worlds, and Yukine, a troubled spirit, Yato battles supernatural enemies and helps people with their struggles.
The story blends humor, action, and emotional moments, all within 12 episodes. They keep things moving without dragging in the least.
The characters have likable personalities and grow as the series progresses, especially Yato, whose past adds that much depth. The cleanliness of the animation and fights makes it fun to watch.
The best thing is that they are short but meaningful. Even when it ends quickly, it still remains memorable. Noragami is suitable for any viewer who wishes to watch a short series with action and heart.
- Imdb rating- 8.7/10
- Total Epiosdes- 12
14. Dandadan-
Dandadan is a wild, crazy, fun anime that mixes comedy and action with the supernatural in such a way that it would never be forgotten.
The story follows two very different characters, a boy who doesn’t believe in ghosts and a girl who doesn’t believe in aliens, as they encounter both. The mix of these ideas creates wild and unexpected adventures.
The pacing of the story keeps viewers hooked, balancing crazy battles with moments of humor and emotion. The artwork is sharp, detailed, and dynamic, especially in fight scenes, which makes it exciting to see.
What also makes it unique is how the characters grow through their strange experiences. Their bond deepens in a way that feels real despite the wild events around them.
Whether you love aliens, ghosts, or just a good adventure, this anime has something for everyone.
Related:
11 Best Anime Like Dandadan You Can’t Miss
- Imdb rating- 8.3/10
- Total Epiosdes- 12
13. Chainsaw Man-
Chainsaw Man is a really crazy anime, with lots of action scenes and a unique storyline. Denji, the main character, is a guy who merged with his pet devil, Pochita, and became a chainsaw-wielding fighter.
Denji joins a group that hunts devils in trying to survive while chasing simple dreams, like eating good food or finding love.
The animation is smooth, and the fight scenes are intense and brutal, not for everyone.
The characters feel real because they have their own struggles and flaws. It’s not just about fighting—it’s also about friendship and what it means to live a good life.
Chainsaw Man is different from most anime, and that makes it worth watching. It’s weird but interesting, and it leaves you wanting to see what happens next.
- Imdb rating- 8/10
- Total Epiosdes- 13
12. Horimiya-
Horimiya is a slice-of-life anime about two high school students, Hori and Miyamura, who seem very different at first. Hori is popular and outgoing, while Miyamura is quiet and looks plain.
But as they get to know each other, they find out they both have sides they don’t show to others. Hori is more down-to-earth at home, and Miyamura has tattoos and piercings.
This has been a focus of their blossoming relationship and how they encourage one another. The series introduces friends, which makes the drama engaging while showing different types of friendship.
The animation is simple, clean, and follows the mood of the story. Horimiya isn’t action-packed or dramatic; it’s warm and realistic. It’s about ordinary days and the connections that you have.
It’s a worthwhile watch if you like light-hearted romance with some depth. It is very short and easy to enjoy.
- Imdb rating- 7.6/10
- Total Epiosdes- 12
11. No Game, No Life-
No Game, No Life is a good choice for those looking for simple and sweet anime to binge-watch. The story is about two genius gamer siblings, Sora and Shiro, who get transferred to a world where everything is decided by games.
The story is unique, combining strategy, fantasy, and fun twists. The art style is colorful, making it stand out, and the pacing keeps you hooked.
The series explores interesting themes like teamwork, intelligence, and the power of belief. Sora and Shiro’s bond as siblings adds an emotional layer to the story.
Even though the anime is only 12 episodes, it delivers a full, entertaining experience. It doesn’t have a full ending since it’s based on a longer light novel series, but it’s still worth watching.
If you want something short and clever with a mix of humor and action, this anime is a solid pick.
- Imdb rating- 8.3/10
- Total Epiosdes- 12
10. Kaiju No. 8-
Kaiju No. 8 is an amazing, action-filled anime that represents a creative take on the monster genre. It chronicles the story of Kafka Hibino, a man who cleans after each kaiju battle but always dreams of fighting them.
That action finally comes for Kafka when he unexpectedly finds himself infused with the ability to become a kaiju. With humor, intense action, and a bit of heart, the anime just gets it all right and balances out well; the characters are easy to root for.
It is fast-paced, and with only 12 episodes, it gives a great experience and keeps you glued if you like stories about underdogs who chase their goals and the insane big odds facing them.
Cool monsters and solid storytelling make the anime Kaiju No. 8 a must-watch for anyone who loves a good monster battle and hero journey.
Related:
Top 11 Anime Like Kaiju No 8 That You’ll Love
- Imdb rating- 7.5/10
- Total Epiosdes- 12
9. Prison School-
If you’re looking for something unique but crazy, one of the best short anime series to binge-watch, Prison School, is worth checking out. This show is about five boys who end up in a strict all-girls school with some unusual rules.
Things turn wild when they get caught doing something they shouldn’t and are sent to the school’s prison. The story mixes comedy with many unexpected twists.
It balances crazy situations with moments of tension, making it hard to stop watching. The characters stand out with their unique personalities, and their struggles keep you hooked.
At only 12 episodes, it’s a quick watch that delivers a complete and entertaining story. Prison School isn’t for everyone due to its over-the-top humor, but if you’re open to something bold and different, something crazy, it’s a must-try for short anime fans.
- Imdb rating- 7.6/10
- Total Epiosdes- 10
8. Devilman Crybaby-
Devilman Crybaby is one of the best short anime series out there. It shows how Akira Fudo, a kind-hearted teenager, transformed into a “Devilman” after merging with an evil demon to save all humanity.
The series portrays how love, friendship, or other aspects of life develop darker sides in human beings and are portrayed through these concepts.
Its art is uniquely gripping, and the fast-moving nature of the plot doesn’t let you get bored until the climax. The one thing that makes Devilman Crybaby stand out is how it balances action and emotion.
The fights are intense, but the real focus is on how the characters deal with the chaos around them. It’s only 10 episodes long, making it easy to binge in a weekend. By the time it ends, it leaves you with a lot to think about.
If you’re into anime with deeper meaning, this is a must-watch. This anime has one of my favorite OSTs; you must listen to it.
- Imdb rating- 7.2/10
- Total Epiosdes- 12
7. Black Summoner-
Black Summoner is a kind of anime where the protagonist, Kelvin, has no memory of his past life. Kelvin is a boy reincarnated into a fantasy world, and he becomes a summoner while trying to build a proper team of powerful companions who can easily help him in battles.
There are many action-packed scenes, along with various fights. Not giving any spoilers, it is a good show for fans of the Isekai anime genre.
If you enjoyed an anime like Black Clover and Mushoku Tensei because of their leveling-up focus and character development, you should give Black Summoner a try.
This show has fast-paced moments on experience, and the animation is fair but nothing more but for one season, anime is good.
Overall, it’s a funny anime for the fantasy world and people who like to see the main character get stronger episode after episode. Adventure and magical anime fans will probably enjoy this one.
- Imdb rating- 8.4/10
- Total Epiosdes- 13
6. Violet Evergarden-
Violet Evergarden is among the best short anime series. It’s the story of a young woman named Violet, who was a soldier and learns to understand people and their emotions.
It is basically about growth, healing, and finding a purpose in life after losing everything. Each episode feels like a short, touching story, but they all come together to tell a bigger tale about Violet’s journey.
Animation is just stunning, really detailed visuals, and it does match the tone very well with heartfelt music that makes it emotional but never forced. It’s a short 13-episode watch that really leaves an impression.
Whether you are a ransack old anime fan or you recently heard the word, Violet Evergarden has to be watched as it does an excellent mix of narrative, visuals, and such meaningful moments for many people to connect with.
- Imdb rating- 6.7/10
- Total Epiosdes- 13
5. Gleipnir-
Gleipnir is one of the best short anime series you can watch. The story focuses on a high school student who discovers he can transform into a monster.
He meets a mysterious girl who forces him into a dangerous partnership. Together, they face life-threatening challenges and uncover dark secrets about their world.
The anime stands out for its unique premise and gripping plot. Each episode moves the story forward, keeping you hooked with twists and action.
The characters are memorable, and their struggles feel real and intense. The animation and soundtrack add to the overall experience, making it a solid choice for anime fans.
If you’re looking for a short series that combines action, mystery, and emotional depth, Gleipnir is worth a watch. It delivers a complete and satisfying story in just one season.
Related:
25 Hottest Female Anime Characters Who Are Total Badasses
- Imdb rating- 7.8/10
- Total Epiosdes- 12
4. Plastic Memories-
Plastic Memories is an emotional anime that brings out human emotions and relationships. The story revolves around a world where humans live with the androids known as Giftias, who have limited lifespans.
Tsukasa is the main character, working for a company that retrieves Giftias when their time is due. Along the way, he teams up with a Giftia named Isla, and their journey becomes one of the bonds they share.
The anime blends the emotional moments with light humor, keeping it engaging all through its 13 episodes. It does question the love, loss, and what it takes to truly cherish time spent with other people.
It is a story that makes it easy to follow due to the pacing, thus making it a satisfying experience for viewers who enjoy such touching stories.
If you’re looking for a short anime series that has a meaningful theme, then Plastic Memories is worth watching. It impacts without feeling too heavy.
- Imdb rating- 8.2/10
- Total Epiosdes- 10
3. Hellsing Ultimate-
Hellsing Ultimate is an ultra-violent, action-loaded anime that reboots the earlier Hellsing series with far greater faithfulness to the manga.
It details the Hellsing Organization, which is under the skilful hands of Sir Integra Hellsing. The organization’s task is to defend England from sundry supernatural threats, primarily vampires.
The ace in this organization’s sleeve is Alucard, a truly invincible, strong vampire. Joining him is Seras Victoria, a former police officer who has turned into a vampire.
This series is known for its graphic violence, dark humor, and stylish animation. Hellsing Ultimate goes deep into Alucard’s past, the Nazi foe group Millennium, and how, in the end, things will play out between vampires and humans.
The animation is top-notch, and dramatic fighting sequences with a gothic atmosphere make it a must-watch for those who like horror, action, or supernatural themes.
However, its explicit content makes it suitable only for mature audiences. The best short anime series with some great storylines and spicy fights is a must-watch for anime fans who love to watch short anime like me; they don’t get too heavy on the mind—short and sweet.
- Imdb rating- 7.8/10
- Total Epiosdes- 12
2. Death Parade-
Death Parade is a fascinating short anime series of 12 episodes. The plot focuses on a strange place where people encounter unknown challenges after death.
New characters are introduced in every episode, and their actions decide their fate. The series delves into human emotions and morality, which keeps the audience glued to their screens with its unpredictable twists.
The animation style is clean, and the music adds depth to the story. The opening song stands out as one of the most memorable parts of the series.
Though the concept might seem dark, the show balances heavy themes with meaningful storytelling. Death Parade never lags, and in my opinion, this would make it perfect for one who wants a full story contained within a short anime.
It makes you think about judgment upon others and about humans, really. If you love anime with depth, this show’s worth your time.
- Imdb rating- 8.4/10
- Total Epiosdes- 13
1. Erased-
Erased is one of the best short anime series with a unique mix of mystery and emotional depth. It follows Satoru, a young man who experiences a strange ability that lets him go back in time to prevent tragedies.
The story mainly focuses on how he uses this ability when a major event from his childhood resurfaces in his life. The series keeps you hooked with its tight plot, strong characters, and emotional moments.
Each episode adds layers to the story, making it hard to stop watching. It’s paced well, delivering a complete and satisfying narrative within 12 episodes.
If you’re looking for a short anime series that combines mystery, drama, and a meaningful story, Erased is a must-watch. Its length makes it perfect for viewers who want a powerful anime experience without committing to a long series.
Conclusion-
A short anime series lasting only one season is perfect for people who want a quick but memorable experience. These 12-episode animes pack great stories into a short time.
Death Parade uniquely explores life and death. “Erased” mixes mystery with emotion, while “Anohana” tells a heartfelt story about friendship and loss.
Fans of action series will appreciate “No Game No Life” or “Devilman Crybaby,” where deep themes get combined with action fight scenes.
The Promised Neverland (Season 1) has fans on edge with the suspenseful storytelling. You will fall for emotional anime like “Your Lie in April” and “Angel Beats!”.
These ones will just prove that you don’t need even long seasons to have it all going well. Whether you’re looking for action, drama, or suspense, there’s a one-season anime for every mood. Try one, and enjoy the world of short anime series.