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The world of anime is full of epic sagas, some have ended and others still continuing. However, long-running series likeOne PieceandNarutocan be deterrents for newcomers and even seasoned fans pressed for time. Fortunately, the anime medium offers a wealth of exceptional shorter series that don’t sacrifice storytelling for briefness.

Edward and Alphonse Elric from Fullmetal Alchemist

Whether a newcomer looking to dip their toes into the anime genre or a seasoned viewer seeking a quick viewing experience just likeFullmetal Alchemist, these short series will satisfy the craving. These 5 best short anime have only one season, which also proves that quality is not contingent on quantity.

5Akame ga Kill(24 Episodes)

ThoughAkame ga Killhas an IMDb rating of 7.8, its narrativehas dark and gritty themes. The story follows Tatsumi, a young man who joins a group of assassins known as the Night Raid in order to take down the corrupt government. The series is set in a fantasy world where power and corruption run rampant.

The series turns out to be quite violent at times, it also explores themes of justice, loyalty, and the consequences of one’s actions.

Tatsumi’s death scene from Akame ga Kill

“It’s just an everyday fact of life”: What Hiromu Arakawa Did With Scar in Fullmetal Alchemist Was Not Something Even Attack on Titan Could Conjure

Akame ga Killis available to watch on Crunchyroll.

4Death Parade( 12 Episodes)

Death Paradehas based its story on the concepts of life, death, and the nature of the human soul. It takes place in a mysterious bar called Quindecim. A place where recently deceased individuals are sent to participate in various games that determine the fate of their souls.

It allows viewers to question their own judgments about the preconceptions of the afterlife. It has a deep, introspective anime experience that doesn’t require a significant time investment.

“It’s just an everyday fact of life”: What Hiromu Arakawa Did With Scar in Fullmetal Alchemist Was Not Something Even Attack on Titan Could Conjure

Death Paradeis available to watch on Crunchyroll.

3Violet Evergarden(13 Episodes + OVA)

Violet Evergardenis placed third in this with an IMDb rating of 8.4. It’s a beautiful and emotional anime that explores the concept of language and communication. The series followsViolet, a former child soldier who is learning to adapt to civilian life. After the war, Violet is employed as an “Auto Memory Doll.”

Just like theFullmetal Alchemist‘s brothers who journey to redeem themselves, Violet also walks a path which quite unknown to her.

Decim Vs Ginti from Death Parade

Violet Evergardenis available to watch on Netflix.

2Cowboy Bebop(26 Episodes)

Cowboy Bebopis a classic anime released in 1998. With an IMDb rating of 8.9, it is quite similar toFullmetal Alchemistin terms of a sophisticated and stylish anime experience, as both series have somewhat Western influence in them the series. The anime blends elements of science fiction, film noir, and jazz to create a truly distinctive aesthetic.

It follows a group of bounty hunters who have their own backstories and personalities and are set in a futuristic world where humanity has colonized the solar system

Violet Evergarden

Cowboy Bebopis available to watch on Netflix.

1Erased(12 Episodes)

Even thoughErasedhas an IMDb rating of 8.4, it tops the list as it provides a psychological thriller to viewers. It follows the story of Satoru Fujinuma, who has the ability to travel back in time to prevent tragic events. When a series of murders occurs, Satoru is sent back to his childhood in the 1980s to try and uncover the truth behind the crimes.

It carefully blends different aspects of mystery and drama to create a suspenseful narrative. The anime’s short runtime allows for a tightly-paced viewing experience same asFullmetal Alchemistdid for its audiences.

Hiromu Arakawa Almost Wrote Fullmetal Alchemist in a Completely Different Time Period But Derailed After Realising Her Manga Had Its Own Plans

Erasedis available to watch on Crunchyroll.

Akihito Chakma

Articles Published :165

Holding a Master’s degree in English, Akihito is a dedicated Content Writer at FandomWire. He has a keen focus on the ongoing anime series, classic series and new releases. With his passion for anime and writing skills, Akihito keeps fans informed and entertained through his work.

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cowboy bebopFullmetal AlchemistViolet Evergarden