Top Chinese Anime Of 2022: A Year In Review
Hey everyone! 2022 was a fantastic year for Chinese animation, or as some of you might know it, donghua. We saw a ton of amazing shows, from epic fantasy adventures to heartwarming slice-of-life stories. If you're a fan of anime, you've gotta check out what the Chinese animation studios have been cooking up! Let's dive into some of the top Chinese anime of 2022 and explore what made them so special.
The Rise of Donghua: Why 2022 Was a Big Deal
Okay, first things first: why was 2022 such a standout year for Chinese anime? Well, donghua has been steadily gaining popularity worldwide, and 2022 was a culmination of years of hard work, investment, and creative growth. The quality of animation has significantly improved, with studios adopting advanced techniques and embracing stunning visual styles. This year, we saw a rise in the production value with more detailed character designs, fluid action sequences, and breathtaking backgrounds, making each episode a visual treat. The storytelling also got a huge upgrade. Chinese animation has always been strong with its source material, often adapting popular novels and manhua (Chinese comics). In 2022, we saw more diverse genres, better pacing, and more nuanced characters. This meant that viewers got to experience shows with more complex themes and emotional depth, creating a richer viewing experience.
One of the biggest factors in the rise of donghua is its accessibility. With more streaming platforms offering subtitles and dubs in various languages, it's easier than ever for viewers across the globe to enjoy these shows. Plus, social media has played a massive role in spreading the word. Fans can share their favorite moments, discuss theories, and connect with other enthusiasts. This international community helps keep the excitement alive and drives more people to discover and enjoy these amazing shows. The investment in Chinese animation is also growing. More studios are being established, and there's a strong push for innovation. This competitive environment has spurred studios to push creative boundaries and deliver top-notch content. As a result, 2022 was a year filled with fresh and exciting stories. This growth isn't just a trend; it's a testament to the dedication, talent, and passion of the creators behind these incredible works. It's a great time to be a fan of Chinese anime!
Top Anime of 2022: Must-Watch Titles
Alright, let's get down to the good stuff: the shows! Here are some of the top Chinese anime from 2022 that you absolutely need to add to your watch list. I'm talking about the best of the best, guys!
A Will Eternal (Season 3)
Let's kick things off with a fan favorite! A Will Eternal continues its amazing journey. The story follows Bai Xiaochun, a hilariously cowardly but ultimately determined protagonist. The animation is top-notch, featuring vibrant colors, over-the-top character expressions, and some seriously epic fight scenes. The world-building is rich and immersive, drawing you into a universe filled with cultivation, magic, and hilarious situations. The comedy in this show is perfectly timed, which provides a great balance to the intense action and drama. Each episode kept me on the edge of my seat, eager to find out what mischief Bai Xiaochun would get into next.
In 2022, the third season of A Will Eternal was released, and it really delivered! The plot thickens, the stakes get higher, and Bai Xiaochun faces even greater challenges. The character development is really strong, with Bai Xiaochun growing into his own in unexpected ways. If you love cultivation stories with a comedic twist, this one's a must-watch. The creators didn't hold back on the visual spectacle, either. The animation is more polished than ever, with fluid combat and breathtaking scenery. The story is engaging and addictive, and the characters are so well-developed that you can't help but root for them. It's truly a testament to the growth of Chinese animation and a great example of what donghua can achieve.
Link Click (Season 2)
Now, for something a bit different, but equally amazing, we have Link Click. This is a fantastic time-travel series with a unique premise and incredibly strong storytelling. The story revolves around two friends who run a photo studio. One of them can enter photos and possess the photographer's body, while the other can see the events that occur after the photo was taken. The series is known for its stunning visuals, clever plots, and the emotional depth of its characters. This show has gained huge popularity with its gripping narrative and memorable characters. The mystery is the main driving force of the story, as they uncover the secrets within the photos and the mysteries surrounding the characters' pasts.
The second season, released in 2022, continued to impress with its intricate plotlines and emotional resonance. The character development is very impressive, as the characters face new challenges and grow as individuals. This is a show that isn’t afraid to tackle complex themes. If you're looking for something that will keep you guessing and leave you feeling moved, this is it. The animation is beautiful. The characters' expressions are very detailed, which makes the emotional moments all the more powerful. The fight scenes, though less frequent than in other genres, are impactful and well-choreographed. The way the story unfolds is carefully crafted. Every episode leaves you wanting more. If you're looking for a donghua that breaks the mold, you have to watch Link Click!
Throne of Seal
Now, if you like fantasy and action, you're going to love Throne of Seal. This is an epic story of adventure, loyalty, and a touch of romance. The story follows a young man who becomes the inheritor of a powerful artifact. He has to assemble a team of knights to protect the world from dark forces. Throne of Seal is known for its intricate world-building, stunning visuals, and exciting combat sequences. This show has everything: epic battles, a compelling story, and characters that you'll root for. The animation is stunning. The world of Throne of Seal is brought to life with vibrant colors, detailed environments, and dynamic fight scenes. Each episode is a visual treat. The characters are well-developed. The characters’ relationships with one another are really engaging. If you are looking for a donghua that will get you hooked from the first episode, check this one out.
In 2022, Throne of Seal brought a fresh and exciting narrative to the fans. The plot continued to develop, introducing new characters and deepening the mysteries of the world. The story continued to explore themes of duty, friendship, and sacrifice, creating an immersive experience for the viewers. The production quality of the show really stands out. The animation is incredibly detailed, from the characters to the environment. The combat sequences are a visual feast, as the characters use their special abilities to do combat. The storytelling is engaging and the characters are easy to connect with, making it a must-watch for fans of the genre. The series takes its viewers on a journey into a world full of fantasy, action, and compelling characters. With amazing animation, the story is both engaging and beautiful to watch. If you're looking for an epic adventure, Throne of Seal is the donghua for you!
More Great Donghua from 2022: Honorable Mentions
Okay, while those three are my top picks, there were so many other fantastic Chinese anime released in 2022. I can’t list them all, but here are a few more that deserve a shout-out:
- Perfect World: Another popular cultivation series with stunning visuals and an action-packed plot. If you love a mix of martial arts and fantasy, this one's for you.
- The Daily Life of the Immortal King (Season 2): A hilarious and action-packed series about a powerful immortal teenager trying to live a normal life. Its great animation is a big plus.
- Battle Through The Heavens: Epic story of a young man who struggles against all odds to make his way to the top. This anime has amazing battle scenes.
The Future of Chinese Anime: What to Expect
So, what's next for Chinese anime? The future looks incredibly bright, guys! The industry is growing, and studios are experimenting with different genres, styles, and animation techniques. We can expect even higher production values, even more immersive storytelling, and more shows that push creative boundaries. New studios are emerging. Established ones are getting bigger and better. The global interest in donghua is only going to increase, which means more opportunities for Chinese animators and more incredible shows for us to enjoy. There is a whole new wave of original stories and adaptations of the best web novels and manhua. We will definitely see more cross-cultural collaborations. Overall, 2022 was an amazing year for Chinese anime, and the future holds even greater things.
Where to Watch Chinese Anime
Okay, so you're probably wondering where to watch these amazing shows, right? Luckily, there are plenty of options: the most popular are Crunchyroll, Funimation, and Bilibili. Each platform offers a vast selection of Chinese anime with subtitles and dubs, so you can choose the language you prefer. If you want to support the industry, checking out these platforms is the way to go. There are also many streaming sites and fan-subbing groups that provide access to shows.
Conclusion: Celebrate Chinese Animation!
2022 was a landmark year for Chinese anime, guys! With incredible shows like A Will Eternal, Link Click, and Throne of Seal, it's a great time to be a fan of donghua. These shows offer a unique blend of animation, storytelling, and cultural influence. If you're new to the world of Chinese animation or if you're a long-time fan, there's never been a better time to dive in. So, grab some snacks, get comfy, and start exploring the exciting world of donghua! Enjoy the shows and happy watching!