Romance anime have long dominated the anime industry with their effervescent narrativesand relatable storylines. However, simple rom-com narratives aren’t always enough to satiate audiences, giving way to an entirely new subgenre – supernatural romance. Be it mysterious powers looming over the characters or otherworldly beings taking center stage, the supernatural romance category has much to offer in terms of versatile storytelling.
However, balancing the aspects of romance and supernatural is an arduous task, with many series failing to equally present both sides of the story. Despite the taxing nature of blending these two elements, some anime have mastered the blueprint of this dynamic subgenre. This has resulted in narratives that simultaneously embody the intrigue of supernatural storylines and the heartfelt sentiments of romantic chronicles.
2016
Number of Episodes
13
Orangedoesn’t limit itself to romance as this dynamic story incorporates mature subtexts such as suicide and depression. The story primarily revolves around mysterious letters from the future that guide the main characters to alter the timeline and save their friend’s life.
The unexplained supernatural elements of the show elevate the narrative, althoughOrangelater unravelsthe time travel phenomenonwith a scientific explanation, dampening the initial impact. Nevertheless, the series brings awareness to mental health issues while intermixing romance and supernatural elements, resulting in a surprisingly mature anime.
2012
Kokoro Connectis a deceptive anime that markets itself as a lightweight rom-com, yet it delves into some somber and heavy themes. Fivehigh school friends experiencean odd phenomenon where they randomly swap bodies for a brief moment, leading to their lives being entirely upended as they are forced to experience each other’s lives.
The premise is initially akin to the lighthearted fun of any other rom-com, though the narrative soon turns grim as the group begins to discover each other’s dark secrets and past traumas. Despite romance being embedded in the show’s premise,Kokoro Connectalso focuses on the platonic aspects of the group’s friendship.
2019
63
The premise ofFruits Basketmay seem obscure at first with its odd supernatural phenomenon, yet the very same narrative adds a certain depth to the series’ romantic subplot.The Sohma family is riddledby a curse that transforms its 13 members into animals of the Chinese Zodiac, though only under times of distress or if they come in contact with a person of the opposite sex.
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While the series initially focuses on Tohru’s dynamics with the entire family, her relationship with Kyou becomes a pivotal aspect later on. Being unable to embrace each other further adds a melancholic touch to the narrative, although the same romance ends up freeing Kyou from the curse.
2013
12
Beyond the Boundary’ssupernatural elements lend Mirai and Akihito a unique bond, resulting in a romantic account that blends well with the overall premise. Mirai’s role as a Spirit World warriorand Akihito’s permanenceoffer an interesting dynamic, allowing the two to grow together and form an unusual bond.
Mirai’s constant attempts at killing Akihito to practice her Spirit World warrior powers further deepen their bond, with the two eventually falling for each other.Beyond the Boundary’ssupernatural aspects act as a stimulant for Mirai and Akihito’s romance, setting a benchmark for anime that wish to tread the path of supernatural romance.
2010
Set in a purgatory-like world that sits in-between life and death,Angel Beats!is a tragic story that showcases the remorse of unfulfilled lives. Despite the somber narrative, the anime delves into the romantic side of things with Otonashi and Kanade’s wholesome relationship. The revelation of their intertwined fate further adds a layer of depth to the show, allowing their tale to transcend time and space.
The supernatural elements naturally blend in with the series’ romantic aspects.Angel Beats’gradual shift from a lighthearted action series to a melancholic tale adds a certain profundity to the narrative, and the afterlife’s mechanics serve as the perfectcatalyst for this tonal shift.
Run Time
1h 47m
Makoto Shinkai has long captivated audienceswith his immersive artwork and heartfelt narratives, andYour Namestands as a testament to his genius. Boasting the title of the third highest-grossing anime film of all time,Your Namehas mastered the framework of incorporating supernatural elements into romance, ensuring neither one becomes too overbearing.
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Taki and Mitsuha’s romantic chronicle transcends time and space, with the two defying all odds to meet once more. The supernatural phenomenon that causes them to swap bodies largely goes unexplained, yet fans find this very mystery to be an endearing part of the premise.
2000
167
InuYashais a classic example of balancing two different genres with perfection, as thisleading shojo animefeatures a thrilling supernatural adventure that is coupled with a heartfelt romance. Unlike other anime, however, InuYasha’s romance is subtle and builds up over time, giving way to an endearing relationship that feels neither forced nor out of place.
While Kagome and Inuyasha’s journey to find the Shikon Jewels remains at the forefront of the premise, their romance acts as a secondary plot that perfectly ties the show together. Furthermore, the anime community largely praises their journey as a couple as only a few anime series have offered audiences such a healthy relationship.
