Top 10 Must-Watch Donghua for Anime Fans
The world of anime is vast, but there's another exciting realm of animation waiting to be explored: Donghua, the name for Chinese animation. From stunning visuals to captivating stories, donghua has become increasingly popular and offers a unique experience for anime lovers.
Here are 10 of the best donghua that you should add to your watchlist:
1. The King's Avatar (全职高手)
Genre: Fantasy, Sports, Action
Synopsis: A top-ranked virtual reality gamer, Ye Xiu, is forced to retire due to a scandal. He starts anew in a new server, using a low-tier character, and climbs his way back to the top.
Why you should watch it: A captivating story about perseverance, teamwork, and the thrill of competition. The anime features an intricate virtual world and impressive animation.
2. Mo Dao Zu Shi (魔道祖师)
Genre: Fantasy, Romance, Action
Synopsis: Wei Wuxian, a powerful cultivator, is framed for a crime and killed. After being resurrected, he seeks to unravel the mysteries surrounding his past and uncover the truth behind his death.
Why you should watch it: A beautifully crafted story with compelling characters, intriguing world-building, and a captivating romance.
3. Heaven Official's Blessing (天官赐福)
Genre: Fantasy, Romance, Supernatural
Synopsis: A legendary deity, Xie Lian, is banished from Heaven and becomes a street performer. He encounters a powerful and mysterious figure, Hua Cheng, who vows to protect him.
Why you should watch it: A heartwarming and hilarious tale of love and redemption. The animation is visually stunning, and the characters are incredibly endearing.
4. The Legend of Hei (黑神话：悟空)
Genre: Fantasy, Action, Adventure
Synopsis: A reimagining of the classic Chinese novel "Journey to the West," this donghua follows the journey of a young monk and his companions as they face danger and overcome challenges.
Why you should watch it: Exceptional animation, breathtaking fight scenes, and a thrilling storyline. Fans of martial arts and mythical creatures will love this one.
5. Hitori no Shita: The Outcast (一人之下)
Genre: Action, Supernatural, Martial Arts
Synopsis: Zhang Chulan, a young man with supernatural abilities, is thrust into a world of hidden powers and ancient secrets.
Why you should watch it: A fast-paced and action-packed story with an intriguing premise and unique character designs.
6. Ling Cage - The Extinction of Human Species (灵笼)
Genre: Sci-Fi, Action, Post-Apocalyptic
Synopsis: Set in a post-apocalyptic world where humanity has been driven underground by giant, monstrous creatures called "Farmen," the story follows a group of survivors as they fight for survival.
Why you should watch it: A visually impressive donghua with stunning animation and a compelling story about survival and hope.
7. The Daily Life of the Immortal King (仙王的日常生活)
Genre: Comedy, Fantasy, Slice of Life
Why you should watch it: A hilarious and heartwarming story about a powerful immortal king who is forced to live a normal life in the modern world. Expect plenty of laughs and relatable situations.
8. Scissor Seven (刺客伍六七)
Genre: Action, Comedy, Slice of Life
Synopsis: A struggling assassin, Seven, struggles to make a living while also trying to regain his memories.
Why you should watch it: A fun and quirky donghua with a mix of action, humor, and heartwarming moments.
9. Under One Person (一人之下)
Genre: Action, Supernatural, Martial Arts
Synopsis: Zhang Chulan, a young man with supernatural abilities, is thrust into a world of hidden powers and ancient secrets.
Why you should watch it: A fast-paced and action-packed story with an intriguing premise and unique character designs.
10. The Demonic King (魔尊)
Genre: Fantasy, Romance, Action
Synopsis: A young demon, Mo Xie, is forced to serve as a concubine to the human emperor, but she secretly harbors a plot to overthrow him.
Why you should watch it: A captivating story with a strong female lead, beautiful animation, and a complex plot filled with political intrigue.
This list is just a starting point. With the increasing quality and variety of donghua, there's something for everyone. So dive in and discover the wonders of Chinese animation!