As 2022 winds down, it's time to look back on a year packed with incredible anime. With so many massive titles hitting the screen, our watchlists have been overflowing. Now, Google Japan has officially released its annual search rankings, breaking down what captured the nation's attention. Let's dive into the anime category and see which series had everyone scrambling to the search bar!
Here's the official top ten countdown.
▼ #10 - Tomodachi Game
Based on the manga by Mikoto Yamaguchi and Yuki Sato, Tomodachi Game had already been adapted into live-action TV shows and films before its anime debut in April. The story kicks off when high schooler Yuichi Katagiri discovers the money for their class trip has been stolen—and the thief is one of his four best friends. With no one fessing up, the group is forced into a series of psychological games to expose the traitor and settle a massive debt.
▼ #9 - Call of the Night
Kotoyama's manga Call of the Night (Yofukashi no Uta), which takes its name from a song by the hip-hop duo Creepy Nuts, got its anime adaptation in July. The series follows Ko Yamori, a middle schooler who, struggling with insomnia after dropping out of school, starts wandering the streets alone at night. His life changes forever when he meets a mysterious and beautiful vampire, Nazuna Nanakusa. Enchanted by the freedom of the night, Ko sets his sights on a new goal: becoming a vampire himself.
▼ #8 - Bocchi the Rock!
This season's breakout hit from Houbunsha, Bocchi the Rock!, is a name you've probably heard a lot lately. The story centers on Hitori "Bocchi" Gotoh, a socially anxious girl who dreams of forming a band but spent all of middle school too shy to make friends. Her luck changes in high school when she's scouted by Nijika Ijichi, a drummer in desperate need of a guitarist. Bocchi is pulled into "Kessoku Band" with bassist Ryo Yamada and vocalist Ikuyo Kita, finally kicking off the musical journey she always wanted.
▼ #7 - Ya Boy Kongming!
Dropping in April, Ya Boy Kongming! became an instant sensation, with its opening theme song taking over the internet and airwaves. The show was easily one of the year's strongest contenders. The wild premise follows the legendary strategist Zhuge Kongming, who, on his deathbed during the Battle of Wuzhang Plains, is reincarnated as a young man in modern-day Shibuya during a Halloween parade. There, he meets aspiring singer Eiko Tsukimi and dedicates his brilliant tactical mind to helping her achieve her dreams.
▼ #6 - My Dress-Up Darling
Airing back in January, My Dress-Up Darling had fans everywhere declaring, "Marin is my waifu!" The series exploded in popularity by blending a sweet high school romance with the fascinating world of cosplay, and fans are already eagerly awaiting a second season. The story follows Wakana Gojo, a quiet high school student who loves crafting traditional Hina dolls, and Marin Kitagawa, one of the most popular girls in school. The two, who seemingly have nothing in common, form an unlikely bond when Marin discovers Wakana's sewing skills and asks him to help her with cosplay.
▼ #5 - Urusei Yatsura
The return of Urusei Yatsura with a brand-new anime adaptation after more than 30 years was a massive surprise for old and new fans alike. Since its premiere in October, this classic series has been drawing major attention, introducing a whole new generation to the electrifying charm of Lum.
▼ #4 - Lycoris Recoil
As one of the few original anime series to make the list, Lycoris Recoil captured hearts and minds when it began airing in July. Its unique world and charming characters quickly won over a massive fanbase. As for whether a sequel is in the works, we'll just have to wait for an official announcement!
▼ #3 - Mobile Suit Gundam: The Witch from Mercury
It's no surprise to see the latest Gundam series, Mobile Suit Gundam: The Witch from Mercury, rank this high. As the first new TV anime in the franchise in years, every single episode has dominated Twitter trends since its October debut. With a fresh story and new characters, the series has successfully brought a wave of new fans into the Gundam universe, making it one of the most talked-about shows of the season.
▼ #2 - Spy x Family
After premiering in April and returning for Part 2 in October, Spy x Family has maintained an incredible level of buzz all year long. Every member of the Forger family—Loid, Yor, Anya, and even the future-seeing dog Bond—has become a fan favorite. With the show split into two cours this year, it's easy to see why it landed the number two spot on the most-searched list.
Alright, it's time for the big reveal. Any guesses as to which anime claimed the top spot in 2022? Do you have your answer ready?
▼ #1 - Chainsaw Man
Ever since its anime adaptation was first announced, Chainsaw Man has been a constant topic of intense discussion. Studio MAPPA masterfully built anticipation by releasing details slowly in the months leading up to its premiere. Since its October debut, every episode has delivered shock and awe, not to mention the meticulously crafted and unique ending sequence for each episode, which has become a major talking point for fans every week.
This is just one of the many categories in Google Japan's 2022 Year in Search. If you're curious to see more, you can check out the official blog post for the full breakdown. So, did this ranking live up to your expectations? Were there any huge hits you're shocked to see missing from the list? Let us know in the comments!
