The Chinese animation industry has experienced a revival of interest in recent years, reigniting the flame that burned bright decades ago. Among the shows that have paved the way for this resurgence is “The King’s Avatar,” a remarkable Chinese anime that has captured the attention of fans around the world.

The Rise of Chinese Anime

“The King’s Avatar” stands out as a rare gem in the anime series landscape, with its focus on e-sports. This captivating show appeals to casual anime enthusiasts who love video and online games. The genius and overpowered main character offer a compelling story that has captivated audiences worldwide.

In addition to “The King’s Avatar,” there are several other Chinese animation series and movies that have set the bar high for Chinese anime, gaining recognition amidst the mainstream popularity of Japanese animation. “Soul Land” has emerged as the most-watched Chinese anime series in China, showcasing the growing popularity of the genre. Films like “Nezha: The Devil’s Rebirth,” “Big Fish and Begonia,” and “White Snake” have also garnered acclaim for their stunning animation and captivating storytelling.

Delving into the World of Chinese Anime

Chinese animation series such as “Battle Through The Heavens,” “Link Click,” and “Fog Hill of Five Elements” have become huge hits, rivaling even the best of Japanese animation. These shows draw inspiration from various Chinese novels and manhua, with a particular focus on xinxia and wuxia genres, famous for their cultivation plots. Additionally, the danmei (boys-love) genre has gained prominence, spearheaded by Mo Xiang Tong Xiu’s “Mo Dao Zu Shi” and “Tian Guan Ci Fu.”

My Best Chinese Anime Every Year (2017-2022)

Hence, I will be sharing my top Chinese anime every year since I started watching donghua in 2017, all thanks to the surging popularity of The King’s Avatar at that time. By sharing this list, I hope to inspire people to explore more donghua and discover the unique storytelling and animation style that Chinese anime has to offer.

2017: The King’s Avatar

“The King’s Avatar” stands out as the best Chinese anime of 2017 for several reasons. The focus on e-sports in the show was a refreshing change from the typical anime series, diving into the world of competitive gaming. The protagonist’s journey to reclaim his glory in the gaming world provided a compelling story, filled with challenges and triumphs. The animation quality of “The King’s Avatar” was top-notch, with visually stunning action sequences that brought the characters and their abilities to life.

2018: Grandmaster of Demonic Cultivation

In 2018, “Grandmaster of Demonic Cultivation” took the anime world by storm with its unique blend of humor, drama, and captivating characters. Based on the popular novel by Mo Xiang Tong Xiu, this series introduced viewers to the complex and intriguing world of cultivation. The balance between humor and drama, along with the deep bond between the main characters, resonated with fans on a profound level.

2019: Grandmaster of Demonic Cultivation Season 2

The highly anticipated second season of “Grandmaster of Demonic Cultivation” continued to captivate fans with its intricate storytelling and compelling characters. The exploration of the protagonist’s tragic past and the unraveling of mysteries kept viewers on the edge of their seats. The seamless continuation of the story and the skillful connection of plot elements from the previous season made it an engaging experience for fans.

2020: Fog Hill of Five Elements

“Fog Hill of Five Elements” emerged as the standout Chinese anime of 2020, captivating audiences with its stunning ink-brush animation. The exceptional animation and engaging storyline, packed into just three episodes, delivered a satisfying and immersive experience. The fast-paced action sequences and well-developed characters left viewers craving for more.

2021: Link Click

In 2021, “Link Click” emerged as the best Chinese anime of the year, captivating audiences with its original story and suspenseful plot. The action-packed series revolved around a time paradox, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats. The balance between intense action and a heartfelt tale of friendship made it a standout series.

2022: Battle Through The Heavens

While 2022 had several notable Chinese anime series, my personal recommendation is “Battle Through The Heavens Season 5.” This season continued the story from the beloved Three-Year Agreement Arc, taking viewers on a new adventure with the protagonist, Xiao Yan. The high-quality animation, engaging storytelling, and action-packed scenes kept viewers hooked throughout the year.

Chinese anime has witnessed a revival in recent years, with exceptional shows captivating audiences worldwide. From the intense gaming world of “The King’s Avatar” to the thrilling adventures of Xiao Yan in “Battle Through The Heavens,” Chinese animation has proven its ability to create compelling and unforgettable stories. As we eagerly anticipate the upcoming shows in 2023, we can confidently say that the future looks bright for Chinese animation.

This article was last updated on November 14, 2023 by Yu Alexius.

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