Studio Gonzo may not be as active as it once was in terms of producing anime, but while it was around, it delivered some of the funniest and most eye-catching shows. Many of the anime produced have either been considered a cult classic at some point or even spawned some of the most memorable moments in the medium, which continue to be references to this day.
Studio Gonzo anime ranges from dark tales of revenge to lighthearted romantic comedies with a fun twist. So, which shows were the most memorable, and which ones managed to subvert expectations in classic stories?
10
Special A
From Rivals To Lovers
One memorable anime from Gonzo’s collection is Special A. This anime focuses on the luxurious school life of Hikari Hanazono and Kei Takishima, two of the smartest students in the entirety of Kei-Hakusenkan. This school gives the smartest students their own special classification as Special A.
However, not everything is as it seems, as Kei and Hikari are constantly competing for the top spot. The twist is that Hikari views Kei as her sworn adversary, while Kei has secret feelings for his classroom rival.
9
Rosario Vampire
A Vampire’s Kiss
Can monsters and humans coexist? This is what Tsukune Aono must figure out when he accidentally enrolls in a school populated entirely by monsters. This includes witches, succubi, and snow women. However, it’s the Vampire, Moka, who manages to steal his heart.
Every day is a new adventure for Tsukune as he tries to hide his identity as a human. He also tries to continue his relationship with the sweet and bubbly Moka. However, when the Rosario around her neck is removed, she reveals her true form and nature.
8
Gantz
Humanity Vs Aliens
Gantz is a gritty death game anime where humans must fight against aliens for a second chance at life. Plucked from the moment of their deaths, high schoolers Kei Kurono and Masaru Kato are forced to fight aliens to score points. When enough points are gathered, they can return to their normal lives.
Gantz has a good mix of dark moments and action-packed battles, which make you question the morality of the missions. With lives at stake and aliens that might not be as evil as they really seem, Studio Gonzo hit it out of the park with this adaptation.
7
Afro Samurai
A Quest For Revenge
Afro Samurai offers a blend of feudal and futuristic Japan as the setting. Here, headbands determine how powerful you are, with the one person to claim the number one headband being declared the most powerful warrior in existence.
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This warrior can only be challenged by the one wearing the number two headband. This just happens to be a Samurai named Afro who seeks revenge for the death of his father. With cool action sequences, hip-hop music, and a compelling narrative, Afro Samurai is one of the most unique anime from Gonzo.
Not Your Average High Schooler
If you blend military action, mechs, and the daily antics of life in high school, you get Full Metal Panic! Tasked with protecting high schooler Kaname Chidori, Sousuke Sagara must blend into his new setting despite only knowing a life of combat.
Now, he must juggle his protection duties as hostile organizations try to threaten Chidori. From mech battles to high school shenanigans, there’s never a dull moment in Full Metal Panic, but the best moments always involve Sousuke trying to apply his military logic to everyday problems.
5
The Count Of Monte Cristo
A Classic Retold
The Count of Monte Cristo is an interesting adaptation of the classic novel of the same name. With a colorful art direction and brand-new setting. Rather than taking place in the past, this adaptation takes place in the future where humans and aliens clash.
The same plot then ensues with the Count of Monte Cristo seeking revenge on those who wronged him in the past. However, everything is shown through the eyes of Albert de Morcerf, one of the count’s competitors, allowing for many of the plot points of the original story to become twists.
4
Welcome To The N.H.K
Conspiracy And Subcultures
Gonzo may have a good selection of comedy anime, but it excels when it comes to dark and moody stories. Welcome to the N.H.K. blends both tones in a dark comedy that follows the life of Tatsuhiro Sato, who has been unemployed for four years. He believes that there is a conspiracy against him causing these misfortunes.
After meeting Misaki Nakahara, she promises him that she has a solution to his shut-in lifestyle as long as she meets up with him each day. From there, it’s a deep dive into Tatsuhiro’s psyche as the series explores why he is the way he is and the many different subcultures he is exposed to.
3
Saki
The Queen Of Mahjong
Saki follows the life of Saki Miyanaga, who rediscovers a love for Mahjong as she is recruited into a club that focuses on competing. While she tries to hide her skills, she is eventually exposed as one of the best players.
Gozo uses every technique in the book to make Mahjong seem exciting, from showing moves being performed in dramatic slo-mo to portraying a play as a massive show of force. As Saki rises up the ranks in competitive Mahjong, she must also confront her inner demons.
2
My Bride Is A Mermaid
A Shotgun Wedding
When Nagasumi Michishio is saved from drowning by Seto Inland Sea, the last thing he expects is to discover that his savior is a mermaid. However, upon witnessing her true form, Nagasumi is given the choice to marry Seto or be executed to protect her secret.
Now engaged, Seto joins Nagasumi in school as he tries to keep her secret safe. With an overprotective dad, the Mermaid Yakuza watching him, and plenty of nautical situations, My Bride Is A Mermaid is one of Gonzo’s best comedies.
1
Hellsing
The Ultimate Horror Anime
Hellsing is one of the most iconic horror anime of all time. This is because it follows the Hellsing Organization as it fights back against supernatural threats. They also have the ultimate weapon working on their side of the battle, the legendary vampire, Alucard.
Alucard steals the show with his impressive powers, nearly indestructible body, and ghoulish way of defeating his enemies. From supernatural entities that threaten the world to other human organizations that are just as monstrous, Hellsing is one of Gonzo’s must-watch anime.
