5 underrated MAPPA anime that aren't Jujutsu Kaisen

The animation studio MAPPA has quickly garnered a reputation for its consistently gorgeous animation, from the fast-paced action in Jujutsu Kaisen to the daunting visuals in the final season of Attack on Titan. The praise of these popular series and the studio's efforts are completely warranted. However, before the likes of Jujutsu Kaisen, the studio had produced many brilliant anime series and movies that deserve the same attention.

Some of these anime series may sound familiar to lifelong fans, but that doesn't make them any less underrated. Since many of these were produced more than a decade ago, the animation may not match the expectations Chainsaw Man, Hell's Paradise and Jujutsu Kaisen have set for MAPPA's quality.

Terror in Resonance Stands as One of the Best Thriller Anime

While the writing isn't without flaws in many sections, Terror in Resonance challenges the audience to see through the perspectives of two "terrorists." The two leads, Twelve and Nine, might be extreme in their approach. However, as the anime progresses, the audience realizes their story is one about abuse, trauma, and standing up against corruption.

If the plot isn't enough, the anime is also directed by Shinichiro Watanabe, the creator of Cowboy Bebop and Samurai Champloo. Many fans of Terror in Resonance also praise the unique art style and emotional soundtrack that accompany the complex narrative. It easily rivals the likes of the best psychological thriller anime like Death Notebut with a more grounded approach.

Yuri!!! On Ice Deserves a Second Season

Yuri!!! On Ice did what every sports anime series is afraid to include, and depicted a confirmed same-gender romance for ages to come. The story revolves around an insecure 23-year-old Japanese figure skater, Yuri Katsuki, who feels demotivated after losing the Grand Prix Final. His passion is reignited when his idol and legendary Russian figure skating champion, Victor Nikiforov, becomes his coach.

Initially, Yuri!!! On Ice focuses on getting Yuri's confidence back and his sudden rivalry with a young Russian figure skater, Yuri Plisetsky, who also idolizes Victor. What made fans fall in love with the series is the evolving relationship between Victor and the protagonist. The growing trust grows into a genuine and loving romance.

As promised by MAPPA, the animation of the figure skating routines mesmerizes the audience. Although it only had one season, which was released in 2016, fans are still hoping for the canceled movie to be revived or for a second season. Overall, Yuri!!! On Ice is a refreshing sports anime that isn't afraid to be vulnerable.

Kids on the Slope is an Overlooked Coming-of-Age Story

Released in 2012, Kids on the Slope is one of the most authentic coming-of-age anime series whose characters feel like actual human beings. The story is set in post-World War II Japan in the 1960s and is centered around three friends, Kaoru, Sentaro, and Ritsuko. It does involve a love triangle, but surprisingly, most of the drama doesn't feel forced. The classic teenage awkwardness and mistakes are there, but how the friendship survives through mutual growth makes Kids on the Slope compelling. All of them have their flaws and grow from them.

Coincidentally, Kids on the Slope is directed by Shinichiro Watanabe, making it his second anime on the list. If the romance and realism aren't enough, the music is incredible. Yoko Kanno, a frequent collaborator of Watanabe's, created the perfect soundtrack for Kids on the Slope. Since it's essential to the characters, it becomes a huge part of what makes the show a masterpiece. MAPPA might be known for intense action series, but there's no doubt the studio can produce something light.

Dorohedoro Doesn't Shy Away from Being Bizarre

For fans of Jojo's Bizarre Adventure and Gintama, this dystopian anime is the perfect addition. Dorohedoro is one of the most overlooked series animated by MAPPA, with chaotic humor and an unpredictable story. The unique world-building, where even the villains are fleshed out, adds a layer of complexity. What ties it all together into a masterpiece is how lovable the characters are. Season 2 might be one of the best anime MAPPA has released in 2026, alongside Jujutsu Kaisen, Chainsaw Man, and Hell's Paradise.

Dorohedoro works because MAPPA allows the manga's bold and eccentric visuals to pop. The animation brings it to life, but the source material is a brilliant read. While the anime might not suit everyone's taste, the good humor and surprisingly complex narrative hidden under the surface make Dorohedoro a must-watch MAPPA anime released in recent years.

In This Corner of the World Gives a Voice to Innocent Citizens During War

In This Corner of the World is often compared to Isao Takahata's Grave of the Fireflies. It's a devastating war movie set before and during World War II, following a young woman named Suzu, who moves to Kure, a port city near Hiroshima. The audience navigates her marriage and surviving through war, dealing with air raids, distributing rations, and worst of all, losing loved ones.

Most war movies focus on the soldiers and the combat aspect, but In This Corner of the World does something unique in depicting ordinary people trying to adapt during World War II. MAPPA does an incredible job subtly shifting between Suzu's imaginative brain that copes with the trauma of what she's going through, and the harsh reality she's living in. The soft, watercolor-style animation is a contrast to the dreadful war, making this 2016 movie one of MAPPA's most heartbreaking masterpieces.