As the year comes to a close, Google has revealed its most searched terms for 2024, including a dedicated slot for the anime category. The top 10 anime on this list feature several expected entries, with the recent global sensation Dandadan securing an impressive second place. Saru Science Dandadan has rightfully earned its place, delivering fans almost all the elements one could expect from an entertainment medium.
Google data highlights the growing interest in anime, with Dandadan skyrocketing in popularity after the release of Episode #7. This episode surprised fans with the tragic story of Acrobatic Silky, consolidating the anime's place among the most talked about series of the year. However, the most searched anime of 2024, although an expected contender for the list, took the top spot for a reason that firmly justifies its position.
Mashle takes first place on Google's top 10 anime list
Mashle Season 2, releasing during Winter 2024, has a good reason for its popularity
According to the list provided by Google Trends, Mashle: Magic and Muscle claims first place in this year's anime category. Season two follows Mash on his journey to become a Divine Visionary. Spanning twelve episodes, the season sees Mash and her friends face numerous challenges to achieve their goals. True to its shōnen roots, the anime introduces a classic trope during this arc, the interference of villains amid trials.
However, it is evident that Mashle's popularity as the number one anime on Google Trends' list can be largely attributed to its opening theme, Bling-Bling-Bling-Born by Creepy Nuts. This track also took first place in the Japanese buzz search category on Google Trends, further proving that the success of the anime owes a lot to the incredible soundtrack created by the Hip-Hop duo.
Therefore, it is reasonable to assume that Dandadan also secured second place on the list largely due to Creepy Nuts, who produced its viral opening theme, Otonoke, as well as the hit Bling-Bling-Bling-Born for Mashle. This data suggests that the rankings are based on virality rather than the anime itself as the main metric. Still, it's great to see other deserving anime, as expected by fans, also making the list.
Many excellent anime were featured in Google's top animes of 2024
Following Dandadan in #2, Kaiju #8 Production IG ranks third, with My deer friend Nokotan and The Indescribable Samurai securing places #4 and #5, respectively. Ufotable's latest addition to Demon Slayer franchise, the Hashira Air Trainingc, takes the 6th position, while the romantic comedy-sports hybrid anime Blue Box arrives at the 7th position, surpassing the recent global sensation Dragon Ball Daimawhich occupies 8th place.
The second to last spot on Google's top 10 anime list is claimed by another sports and drama themed anime, Battery of Oblivionwith Delicious in the dungeon completing the list in the final position. Although the high ratings of Mashle and Dandadan in Google's top Anime of 2024 highlight the influence of virality on these metrics, the inclusion of My deer friend Nokotan and Battery of Oblivion emphasizes that each anime has earned its place by offering unique and immersive experiences that captivate viewers.
Dandadan
Two high school students, involved in a bet to prove the existence of ghosts or aliens, encounter frightening paranormal threats, acquire superpowers and possibly discover love. The series combines supernatural elements with personal dynamics as the protagonists navigate their new abilities and unexpected challenges.