Looking for anime that will provide a great story but not take 900+ episodes and thousands of hours to watch? You know, something to watch between your weekly and for-lifer anime. Well I’ve got you. I’ve been tirelessly digging through the latest anime releases and some classics to find the best short anime for when you’re short on time. To my pleasent surprise most of them were romances or female led anime. I’ve found a treasure trove of short, yet absolutely captivating anime series that are all about romance and powerful female leads. 🌹💪
Now these aren’t your typical, run-of-the-mill shows. Each one is a unique gem, bursting with heart throbing plots and unforgettable characters. Whether you’re a seasoned anime watcher or just looking for your next binge-worthy obsession, these series are sure to surprise and delight you. So, grab your snacks and get comfy, because I’m about to dive into these great stories of love and empowerment. Let’s get into it!
Watch the video:
Kenka Bancho Otome: Girl Beats Boys
Genre: Female lead, School, Martial Arts
Synopsis: A girl takes her twin brother’s place in a boys’ school known for its martial arts battles. This short anime series, inspired by an otome game, is packed with action and unexpected twists.
Thoughts: This is thew shortest anime with 8-minute episodes totaling 96 minutes. I reminds me of ‘Ouran High School Host Club’ with a strong female lead that dresses like a male student surrounded my males.
Recovery of an MMO Junkie
Genre: Female lead, Video Games
Synopsis: Meet Moriko Morioka, a 30-year-old NEET woman escaping reality in the world of online gaming. Here, she’s Hayashi, a handsome male character. Life takes a turn when she meets Lily in-game and a handsome elite employee in real life. The lines between the virtual and real world blur, leading to unexpected romance and revelations.
Thoughts: This show has 10 episodes plus 1 OVA episode. Perfect for a cozy weekend binge! Reminds me of My Love Story with Yamada-kun at Lv999 but with 30 year old working adults. This is one of my favorite romance anime and I wish it had more seasons.
Monthly Girls’ Nozaki-kun
Genre: School, Otaku Culture
Synopsis: Chiyo Sakura’s love confession to her crush Nozaki lands her a job as his manga assistant instead of a date! Follow their hilarious and heartwarming journey through the quirky world of manga creation.
Thoughts: With 12 episodes, this series will leave you laughing and rooting for love. It is soooooo cute.
Tomo-chan Is a Girl!
Genre: Tomboy, Female lead
Synopsis: Tomo, a tomboy, has her sights set on her childhood friend, Junichiro, who sees her as just one of the guys. This light-hearted series is all about Tomo’s efforts to get Junichiro to notice her femininity.
Thoughts: At 13 episodes, this series offers a fresh take on romance, echoing shows like ‘Romantic Killer’ and ‘Love is War’.
Kiss Him, Not Me
Genre: Shoujo, BL
Synopsis: Fujoshi Kae Serinuma loves imagining her male classmates in romantic scenarios. After a dramatic weight loss, she becomes the center of attention among four handsome students. But her heart races more for their potential romance with each other!
Thoughts: This 12-episode series is a quirky twist on traditional romance anime. I finished this anime in one sitting because it was so gooddddd! I’ve probably watched it twice just last year.
Love After World Domination
Genre: Superhero, Parody, Romance
Synopsis: Fudo, a hero, and Desumi, a member of an evil organization, are caught in a forbidden love. This series humorously explores their secret relationship amidst their conflicting roles.
Thoughts: A must-watch 12-episode series, especially for Power Rangers fans! I had no idea what this anime was going to be like but as I watched it I was smiling the whole time.
Arte
Genre: Seinen, Female lead
Synopsis: Set in 16th-century Florence, Arte is a noblewoman who dreams of becoming an artist. This series portrays her journey to overcome societal norms and pursue her passion.
Thoughts: With 12 episodes, ‘Arte’ offers an inspiring story of resilience and determination. I just want another season because I need to know about the potential love interestsssssss.
Smile Down the Runway
Genre: Fashion, School
Synopsis: Chiyuki Fujito aspires to be a Paris Collection model despite her height. Teaming up with aspiring fashion designer Ikuto Tsumura, they challenge the fashion world’s norms.
Thoughts: This 12-episode series is a stylish and heartfelt journey into the world of fashion.
Raven of the Inner Palace
Genre: Historical, Shoujo
Synopsis: In this mysterious and historical setting, the Raven Consort holds mystical powers. As the Emperor seeks her help, secrets unfold in a narrative filled with intrigue and supernatural elements.
Thoughts: With 13 episodes, this series offers a rich tapestry of story and character development. Not going to lie it is a little slow at some parts but the story as a whole was good and worth the watch.
I’m the Villainess, So I’m Taming the Final Boss
Genre: Villainess, Shoujo, Isekai
Synopsis: Reborn as the villainess Yumiella, this college kid tries to avoid her doom by capturing the heart of the Demon Lord Claude. Can she rewrite her fate?
Thoughts: Dive into this 12-episode adventure for a unique blend of romance and fantasy. I loved this anime. It was my first villainess otome game anime and now I’m addicted. Any time I see a otome game like anime I think of this one.