As the anticipation builds for the Crunchyroll Awards nominations and category reveals, we’ve reached the crucial moment where the eligible anime have been finalized. Now is the perfect juncture to delve into our predictions for the Anime of the Year contenders. With a plethora of high-profile anime releases this year, accurately forecasting nominations requires a keen understanding of the judges’ preferences.
To navigate the nomination landscape, it’s crucial to consider the judges’ tendencies. Certain genres, such as light novel isekai and romances, are unlikely to secure nominations. Anime with substantial entry barriers or big shonen series experiencing weaker seasons might also face exclusion. In simpler terms, don’t hold your breath for Demon Slayer as an AOTY candidate. The recognition for Bleach or One Piece is expected to be modest. Even if Mushoku Tensei missed the nomination boat in the past two years, the chances are slim for its inclusion this year. My Hero Academia’s prospects are shrouded in doubt. And, let’s face it, even if these series do secure nominations, victory seems elusive.
Jujutsu Kaisen Season 2 is a no-brainer – the hype speaks for itself. Barring an unexpected meltdown in MAPPA’s Fall season production, this powerhouse is a shoo-in for a nomination. Picture this: they could even strategically hold back the Shibuya Incident arc for next year, letting the Hidden Inventory arc steal the spotlight and setting the stage for Jujutsu Kaisen’s reign for yet another year – a brilliant move, given that the series has been building up to this climactic moment. This anime’s track record in awards speaks volumes; it’s been a juggernaut akin to Demon Slayer since its initial Anime of the Year win. With recency bias in its favor, there’s no doubt that Jujutsu Kaisen will continue its award show dominance this year.
Chainsaw Man emerges as the standout from last year’s Fall anime lineup, its enduring impact evident even with the removal of recency bias. As we reflect on titles a year later, Chainsaw Man confidently stakes its claim for Anime of the Year candidacy. In a league of its own, surpassing even the likes of Mob Psycho 100 or Bocchi the Rock, Chainsaw Man’s debut resonated strongly in the West. The ongoing discussions, vibrant cosplay scenes, and a surge in YouTube content attest to its enduring relevance. While its victory isn’t a sure bet, the odds would be more than decent if not for the formidable presence of Jujutsu Kaisen.
Vinland Saga Season 2 stands poised for a nomination push, backed by widespread acclaim from major outlets and a substantial fan following. Its popularity, though not the pinnacle, is undeniably noteworthy. If the judges align in unanimous praise, envisioning it as a potential winner is not far-fetched. Personally torn, as Vinland Saga holds the title of my favorite anime of the year, I relish the aftermath of a popular shonen seizing victory. Validation from Crunchyroll isn’t crucial for my appreciation, but the prospect of witnessing the storm of emotions when a seemingly “less deserving” anime clinches the win is pure entertainment. Remember the 2020 showdown against Demon Slayer? This is why I steer clear of copium.
While a victory seems unlikely, Oshi no Ko’s colossal impact suggests a strong chance of clinching a nomination. Two hurdles impede its path: certain viewers harboring misplaced expectations, resulting in dissatisfaction, and its Hidive platform, which some anime news outlets tend to sidestep. Notably, Polygon’s belated addition of Oshi no Ko to their year-end anime list underscores its significance, especially compared to other recognized Spring shows. While an Anime of the Year win may be a stretch, I’m hopeful Oshi no Ko secures recognition in at least one category.
Attack on Titan: Final Season Part 3 faces uncertainties with its controversial ending and a shorter-than-usual runtime for nominees. Despite reservations, this installment marks the epic conclusion to Attack on Titan, a series that has defied controversies to maintain its cultural relevance. The prospect of a final nomination seems plausible, yet victory remains a mystery. Given Attack on Titan’s unparalleled popularity, success hinges on diverse factors. Recall the unexpected turn of events last year, where Edgerunners triumphed over Attack on Titan due to CDPR’s massive fandom influence. The anime community eagerly anticipates the outcome of this climactic chapter in Attack on Titan’s legacy.
Mobile Suit Gundam: Witch From Mercury could potentially be the judges’ darling without clinching the victory, mirroring the Ranking of Kings scenario from the previous year. Alternately, contenders like Trigun Stampede, Heavenly Delusion, or even underrated big shonen titles such as Blue Lock, Summer Time Rendering, or Hell’s Paradise might take the spotlight. Surprisingly, initially-dismissed heavyweights like Demon Slayer or Bleach could also emerge if the judges’ preferences lean differently than anticipated. However, the mandatory sixth slot seems fated to host a nominee overshadowed by the prowess of the other five candidates. The intriguing dynamics of this wildcard entry add an extra layer of anticipation to the impending announcement.
