News Otaku – When it comes to touching the hearts of viewers and making them cry, romantic anime has an unparalleled power.
While the genre is filled with unique and memorable love stories, some narratives truly reach deep levels of sadness.
Sometimes, love in anime doesn’t have a happy ending, as inevitable tragedies strike or fate’s circumstances rob characters of their chance at happiness.
In the world of anime, we often encounter hauntingly tragic love stories that make us wish we could change the plot.
Some romantic anime possess the emotional power to break hearts, and here are 10 of the most heart-wrenching romantic anime based on rankings from CBR, Monday (10/06/2024).
10 Most Heartbreaking Romantic Anime You Shouldn’t Watch Alone
10. Nana
Nana excels in presenting mature themes and narratives. The story focuses on two young women named Nana who unexpectedly meet and become close friends. Despite their vastly different personalities, their journey is filled with tragedy, especially in unhealthy relationships and losing loved ones. One of the most heartbreaking moments is Ren’s death and its profound impact on Nana Osaki. Meanwhile, Nana Komatsu struggles with her relationship with Takumi and feels lonely due to the lack of meaningful connections. The complex yet realistic love story in Nana makes it a touching experience for viewers who can relate to similar stories.
9. Oshi No Ko
The 2023 breakout anime, Oshi No Ko, isn’t just about romance but also depicts various forms of tragic love. The plot involves unusual and hidden love behind unrequited emotions. Ai’s unexpected pregnancy by an unknown person in her youth reveals her hidden love for him, but circumstances force their separation. Aqua, a former fan of Ai, reincarnates as her son, creating a complex love or obsession far beyond maternal affection. Other characters like Kana Arima also experience painful unrequited love, making it clear that no love in Oshi No Ko seems destined for a happy ending.
8. Anohana: The Flower We Saw That Day
Anohana is a tear-jerking anime that inspires viewers about loss, love, and friendship. The series begins with the tragedy of six close friends losing Meiko Menma in an accident, leaving deep emotional scars. Years later, Menma appears as a ghost to Jinta, leading the group to confront their unresolved emotions and past conflicts. Anohana is a meaningful story about collective healing and facing hidden feelings.
7. Banana Fish
Banana Fish tells the tragic story of Ash Lynx, a gang leader with a traumatic past. His life changes when he meets Eiji, a kind-hearted Japanese photographer. Despite being entangled in crime, Ash finds solace and unconditional love with Eiji, bringing hope to his life. Their ambiguous relationship helps Ash cope with his past, offering a touching tale of love, forgiveness, and sacrifice.
6. Ef: A Tale of Melodies
A Tale of Melodies delves into the past of supporting characters from Ef: A Tale of Memories. It follows the complex journey of Himura and Yuuko, orphaned children who reunite after years and rekindle their childhood love. Despite being separated by Himura’s initial rejection, fate gives them a second chance. The story highlights Himura’s emotional struggles after losing Yuuko, presenting a tearful yet important message about cherishing shared memories.
5. Rumbling Hearts
Rumbling Hearts depicts a painful love triangle involving Haruka, Narumi, and Mitsuki. After a tragic accident leaves Haruka in a coma, Narumi and Mitsuki develop a relationship. Haruka’s sudden awakening complicates their situation, trapping them in a web of drama and deep sadness. While more focused on drama than tragedy, Rumbling Hearts powerfully portrays the struggles of love hindered by difficult circumstances.
4. Orange
Orange tells the story of love and friendship as Naho and her friends receive letters from their future selves, urging them to prevent certain mistakes, particularly to save Kakeru, a new student with suicidal thoughts. Naho’s love for Kakeru and the group’s efforts to help him highlight the importance of friendship and support in overcoming dark thoughts, demonstrating that love alone isn’t always enough to save someone.
3. Your Lie in April
Your Lie in April explores themes beyond the loss of a loved one. It begins with Kousei Arima, who loses his ability to play music after his mother’s death. His encounter with Kaori brings music back into his life, but also forces him to face the painful reality of losing someone important again. This anime celebrates the spirit of true love, despite the deep pain it brings.
2. Plastic Memories
Plastic Memories conveys powerful messages through its characters, focusing on the relationship between Tsukasa and Giftia. The story highlights the limitations of their happiness due to Giftia’s lifespan, making it heartbreakingly clear that all things must come to an end. The central theme of separation emphasizes the importance of cherishing every moment, despite inevitable goodbyes.
1. Clannad
Clannad immerses viewers in profound tragedy and its deep effects on the characters. After Nagisa’s death during childbirth, Tomoya is shattered and retreats from the world, even from his daughter Ushio. With support from those around him, Tomoya slowly rediscovers life’s meaning, only to face another tragedy. Clannad is a complex mix of realism and the human quest for happiness, portraying how some people become an unforgettable part of our soul.
