Top Chinese Anime Of 2022: Your Ultimate Guide
Hey anime enthusiasts! If you're anything like me, you're always on the hunt for the next awesome series to binge-watch. And let me tell you, the world of Chinese anime, or Donghua, has been absolutely exploding with creativity and quality. 2022 was a fantastic year, and I'm here to give you the lowdown on some of the best series that you absolutely need to check out. We're talking epic adventures, stunning visuals, and stories that will keep you hooked from the first episode. So, grab your snacks, settle in, and get ready to discover some incredible Donghua! This guide will focus on the most popular and the most promising new series of 2022. Whether you're a seasoned Donghua fan or a curious newcomer, there's something here for everyone. Let's dive in and explore the captivating world of Chinese animation!
Unveiling the Hottest Donghua of 2022: A Deep Dive
Chinese anime in 2022 delivered a diverse range of genres, from action-packed cultivation stories to heartwarming slice-of-life dramas. The animation quality has noticeably improved over the years, with studios pushing the boundaries of what's possible. The character designs are more intricate, the fight scenes are more dynamic, and the storytelling is becoming more sophisticated. One of the most significant trends of 2022 was the rise of sequels and adaptations of popular novels. Many beloved series returned with new seasons, while several fresh adaptations captured the hearts of viewers. The popularity of 3D animation (CGI) continues to grow, offering spectacular visuals and immersive experiences, although traditional 2D animation still holds a special place in many viewers' hearts. These animation companies are creating some of the most dynamic and immersive experiences in the industry, competing with even the most established studios worldwide. Many of the series mentioned include complex character relationships, exploring themes of friendship, romance, and self-discovery. The soundtracks are also worth noting, with many Donghua featuring catchy theme songs and beautiful background music that perfectly complement the visuals and narrative. In short, 2022 was a year of growth and innovation for Chinese anime, and the future looks incredibly bright.
The All-Time Favorites
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The Daily Life of the Immortal King (Season 3): Guys, this one is a must-watch if you haven't already! The Daily Life of the Immortal King is a hilarious and action-packed series about a high school student named Wang Ling, who is secretly an incredibly powerful immortal. Season 3 continued the story with the same blend of comedy, action, and supernatural elements that made the previous seasons so popular. Wang Ling has to deal with everyday life while trying to keep his immense powers a secret. I mean, the fight scenes are amazing, and the humor is top-notch. If you're looking for something lighthearted but still engaging, this is the perfect choice.
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Link Click (Season 1 & 2): Okay, this one is a bit of a mind-bender, but in the best way possible. Link Click is a beautifully animated series that follows two friends who run a photo studio. They have the ability to enter the photos and experience what happened in the past. Each episode presents a new mystery and a new challenge for the duo as they try to uncover the truth behind the photos. The story is incredibly engaging, with complex characters and a compelling plot. If you love a good mystery and enjoy stunning visuals, Link Click is a must-see.
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Spare Me, Great Lord! (Season 2): A mix of comedy and action based on the popular novel, this anime follows Lu Shu, who has to make his living in order to stay alive. The first season was an absolute hit, and season two does not disappoint. The animation quality is superb, and the characters are really endearing. If you enjoy slice-of-life comedies with a touch of the supernatural, this is definitely for you.
Exploring Promising New Series
2022 also brought us a bunch of amazing new series that quickly became fan favorites. These shows demonstrate the variety and quality of the Chinese anime scene. Here are a few that really stood out:
The Rising Stars
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A Will Eternal: This series is an adaptation of a popular cultivation novel. The animation is top-notch, with stunning visuals and dynamic fight scenes. If you're a fan of cultivation stories, this one is an absolute must-watch. The story follows Bai Xiaochun, who embarks on a journey to immortality. He faces various challenges and learns valuable life lessons along the way. The plot is filled with humor, and there are many action scenes to enjoy.
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Throne of Seal: This is another adaptation of a popular novel, and it has quickly gained a large following. The animation is gorgeous, and the story is really engaging. The plot revolves around a young man named Long Haochen who seeks to become a knight. Together with his teammates, he battles demons and protects humanity. The series offers a great blend of action, adventure, and fantasy elements. It is one of those series that you can’t get enough of.
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Star Martial God Technique: This is another popular fantasy series with stunning animation and engaging storytelling. The plot follows a young man who goes on a journey of cultivation to become stronger. He faces numerous challenges and meets many interesting characters. If you enjoy fantasy and action, this one is a great choice. The action scenes are particularly well-animated, making it a visual treat.
Trends and Innovations in Chinese Anime
Chinese anime in 2022 continued to evolve, with several trends shaping the industry's landscape. These innovations are paving the way for the future of Donghua. Here are some of the most notable developments:
The Rise of 3D Animation
- 3D Animation Dominance: 3D animation, also known as CGI, has become increasingly popular in Donghua. Studios are now creating highly detailed 3D models and environments, resulting in breathtaking visuals. The use of CGI allows for dynamic camera movements and epic fight scenes. The technology provides the ability to explore the imagination and push the boundaries of storytelling, creating immersive and unforgettable experiences.
Adaptations of Popular Novels
- Novel Adaptations: Many popular Chinese novels are being adapted into anime. This trend is not only popular but it also opens up new audiences to the animated medium. The original novels already have large fan bases, so adapting them into anime ensures a built-in audience and a guaranteed success. They have rich stories and detailed characters that provide studios with excellent material to work with. There is a wide variety of content to draw from, and you're sure to find something to enjoy!
Global Appeal
- International Recognition: Chinese anime is gaining more international recognition. Donghua is being translated and distributed worldwide, reaching a global audience. The growing popularity has also led to more collaborations with international studios and the development of original content with international appeal. The combination of beautiful animation, compelling storytelling, and diverse genres has made Chinese anime a popular choice worldwide.
Where to Watch Chinese Anime
So, you're probably wondering, where can I watch all these amazing shows? Here are some of the best platforms for streaming Chinese anime:
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Official Platforms: Some platforms like Tencent Video, Youku, and Bilibili offer a vast selection of Donghua, including many of the series mentioned above. These platforms often have exclusive content and are the best places to watch shows as they are released in China.
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Streaming Services: Crunchyroll, Funimation, and other well-known streaming services have started to add more Chinese anime to their libraries. You can also watch the shows with subtitles. Be sure to check what is available in your region. These platforms offer a convenient way to enjoy Donghua.
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Fan Subbing Websites: If you are not able to watch these on official platforms, there are fan-subbing websites. However, be aware that the legality of these sites can vary. Always check for legitimate sources before using unofficial sites.
Conclusion: The Future of Donghua is Bright!
Chinese anime in 2022 was a stellar year for Donghua. We saw stunning new series, the continuation of beloved favorites, and the continued evolution of animation techniques. The future of Donghua looks incredibly bright, with more and more viewers worldwide discovering the magic of Chinese animation. I highly recommend that you check out some of the series listed above. You might find your new favorite anime! If you have any recommendations or thoughts on the best Donghua of 2022, feel free to share them in the comments below. Happy watching!