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Gay love animes

To the best of my recollection, the BL anime genre appears to have been in existence for an extensive period. Long before BL dramas or films achieved widespread recognition, BL anime and manga served as pioneering works, bravely exploring male romantic relationships in fictional narratives at a time when such themes were largely considered taboo within society.

Within the realm of anime, the BL (Boys' Love) genre shares a significant connection with terms like yaoi and shounen ai, both of which denote highly analogous narrative styles. Yaoi is typically characterized by its more explicit content, whereas shounen ai leans towards a more innocent portrayal; in contrast, BL often aims to encapsulate the finest aspects of both. This particular category has cultivated a dedicated following among specific audience segments. I'm not particularly fond of utilizing the descriptor "fujoshi," as it often carries certain negative connotations. It would be more accurate to state that individuals possessing discerning taste are the ones who typically gravitate towards watching BL anime!

Despite its considerable longevity, it is rather surprising how limited the selection of anime within this genre actually is. You can trust my word on this, as I have thoroughly investigated this subject, meticulously searching far and wide for BL anime recommendations. The paucity of available titles will likely astonish and perhaps disappoint you when juxtaposed with the sheer volume of other existing genres.

Consequently, this scarcity in available content renders it even more challenging for an outstanding anime series to emerge. While they may be an infrequent occurrence, truly exceptional choices do exist. BL Watcher has diligently experienced each one, and presented here are some of my premier BL anime recommendations!

List of BL Anime and Yaoi

2024 BL

2023 BL

2022 BL

2021 BL

2020 BL

2019 BL

Pre-2019 BL

BL Anime in 2024

Cherry Magic (2024)

Cherry Magic is a Japanese BL anime series that delves into the life of an office worker endowed with telepathic capabilities. The central protagonist is an unassuming employee who has never previously engaged in romantic relationships. He harbors feelings of insecurity concerning his lack of romantic experience, particularly as he approaches the age of thirty. In a recent development, the main character acquires the extraordinary ability to perceive others' inner thoughts. To his astonishment, he discovers that a popular colleague harbors a secret romantic interest in him. Subsequently, the two coworkers begin to forge a closer connection within the professional setting.

Notwithstanding its somewhat whimsical premise, the Cherry Magic anime series presents itself with a remarkable degree of realism. From its insightful internal reflections to the deeply affecting messages it conveys, I find myself profoundly impressed by the narrative's maturity and the thoughtfulness embedded within its storytelling. The charming office-based romance truly captivates in its initial episodes, masterfully capturing the delicate affection shared between the characters. They consistently treat one another with considerable sweetness through numerous tender interactions. Similarly, I derive considerable enjoyment from observing the secondary couple and their endearing bond.

  • Office romance
  • Cute & sweet
  • 12 episodes
  • 5 hours

Given Movie 2: Hiiragi Mix

Given Movie 2: Hiiragi Mix represents the second cinematic continuation of the acclaimed Japanese BL anime series. It chronicles the experiences of a collective of aspiring musicians and their romantic entanglements. The principal individual is a member of an amateur rock band, alongside his childhood companions. Following the unfortunate demise of their lead vocalist, the profound void left by his absence exerts a considerable emotional weight upon the two remaining members. They find solace and mutual emotional sustenance in one another, yet their unexpressed sentiments introduce complexities into their dynamic.

This second cinematic installment of Given adeptly expands upon the foundational narrative, incorporating insightful thematic explorations and subtle emotional layers. It examines the romantic journeys of the central characters from a more profound perspective. The film encounters some challenges when the narrative focus shifts to a newly introduced couple. Their personal histories feel somewhat awkwardly integrated, and the romantic drama presented is somewhat diluted. Nevertheless, I continue to appreciate the characters and their interactions. Several romantic exchanges within the film are particularly memorable and charged with palpable sexual tension.

  • School romance
  • Mature & interesting
  • Movie
  • 1 hour

Kuso Miso Technique (2024)

Kuso Miso Technique is a Japanese 18+ BL anime special that depicts an encounter between two strangers who engage in sexual activity within a public restroom. Following an intensely passionate sexual encounter within a washroom stall, they transcend conventional boundaries and establish a profound intimacy. The pair embarks on an adventurous odyssey characterized by bizarre escapades. Along their path, they encounter malicious antagonists intent on ending their lives. The protagonists are compelled to devise strategies for escaping each perilous predicament collectively.

The unrefined humor and explicit scenarios presented in Kuso Miso Technique might resonate with individuals who possess a rather unconventional sense of amusement. Its comedic impact is akin to that of a juvenile jest. Personally, I find this particular anime to be entirely devoid of entertainment value. From its pointless narrative trajectory to its lascivious sexual sequences, I observe the unfolding events with a mixture of astonishment, bewilderment, and sheer mortification. The rather unpolished visual aesthetic only serves to amplify the awkwardness, and the depiction of homosexual interactions functions more as a source of comedic commentary rather than conveying any meaningful sentiment.

  • Comedy
  • Happy & funny
  • 1 episode
  • 30 mins

Tadaima, Okaeri (2024)

Tadaima, Okaeri is a Japanese BL omegaverse anime series centered on a family raising a child within a suburban neighborhood. The principal individuals are a happily married couple, proudly embracing parenthood alongside their delightful young toddler. Each day, they luxuriate in domestic tranquility and embrace the novel experiences that parenthood entails. Notwithstanding their familial harmony, this same-sex couple frequently encounters instances of societal prejudice. The protagonists are compelled to offer each other unwavering support as they navigate through harassment and discrimination.

The Tadaima, Okaeri anime offers a charming portrayal of domestic bliss through a comedic slice-of-life narrative featuring a gay family. It presents a positive representation of same-sex parenting, a theme that is infrequently explored within the BL anime landscape. Numerous lighthearted moments punctuate the series, celebrating the sheer delight of nurturing a child. However, the storyline occasionally veers into an overly sentimental and saccharine territory, laden with excessive emotional effusion. Furthermore, it incorporates elements of omegaverse concepts, such as male pregnancy and societal stratification, which may prove divisive among viewers.

  • Romance
  • Cute & sweet
  • 12 episodes
  • 3 hours

The Perfect Prince Loves Me, the Side Character?! is a Japanese 18+ BL anime series that delves into a fantasy romance. The protagonist undergoes transmigration into the fictional world of a magical romance novel. He assumes the persona of a secondary character, originally intended to have a minor role in the unfolding narrative. Following an accidental administration of a love potion, the prince becomes infatuated with him instead of his intended bride. Consequently, the protagonist must locate an antidote to counteract this potent attraction.

Despite its distinctive fantastical milieu and refined ambiance, The Perfect Prince Loves Me, the Side Character?! regrettably squanders its narrative potential. It expends minimal effort on character development, dedicating its focus almost exclusively to explicit content. While the prince's character design is undeniably handsome, his personality is virtually nonexistent. The 18+ anime features a multitude of brazen encounters, yet the explicit material eventually devolves into a monotonous repetition.

  • 18+ erotica
  • Spicy & romantic
  • 8 episodes
  • 1 hours

Twilight Out of Focus (2024)

Twilight Out of Focus is a Japanese BL anime series that centers on a high school film club. The primary character enlists his roommate to take on a starring role in a short cinematic production. While working on the film, they are compelled to confront their developing feelings for one another. Furthermore, the other members of the club find themselves entangled in unexpected romantic developments. A pair of academic rivals transition from animosity to affection. Additionally, two students from disparate backgrounds and with contrasting personalities discover their underlying compatibility.

From its visually striking presentation to its eloquent dialogues, Twilight Out of Focus imbues its portrayal of romance with a sophisticated elegance. This particular anime is likely to captivate audiences who appreciate nuanced love stories featuring introspective characters. Each featured couple engages in tender relationships that showcase imagery conducive to the BL genre, including intimate embraces and tastefully executed lovemaking scenes. Occasionally, the script tends to be excessively theatrical, particularly evident in its overly sentimental lines and lengthy monologues.

  • School romance
  • Mature & interesting
  • 12 episodes
  • 5 hours

BL Anime in 2023

Buddy Daddies (2023)

Buddy Daddies is a Japanese anime series that follows the lives of two professional assassins tasked with raising a child together. During a violent confrontation, the protagonists are responsible for the demise of a four-year-old girl's father, rendering her an orphan. They subsequently assume the responsibility of becoming her guardians. This spirited youngster introduces an element of unexpected joy, excitement, and delightful disorder into their accustomed routines. However, their perilous profession poses a persistent threat to the stability of this unconventional family unit.

Although Buddy Daddies is not strictly classified as a BL anime, its thematic elements undeniably incorporate implicit LGBTQ+ undertones. The series highlights two men collaboratively undertaking parental duties within a non-traditional family structure. The absence of any romantic interactions limits my overall appreciation from a BL perspective. Nevertheless, this series remains thoroughly enjoyable due to its inherent charm, pervasive humor, and spirited energy. Each charming episode spotlights the beloved characters and their amusingly chaotic antics.

  • Non-BL comedy
  • Happy & funny
  • 12 episodes
  • 5 hours

Mask Danshi (2023)

Mask Danshi is a Japanese BL anime that centers on a timid high school student. The protagonist is plagued by self-consciousness and habitually wears a mask to conceal his features. He attracts the attention of a strikingly attractive classmate who expresses a desire for his friendship, despite their diametrically opposed natures. One possesses a reticent and anxious disposition, while the other is gregarious and highly popular. Notwithstanding their inherent differences, they commence spending time together and forge an unconventional bond.

The Mask Danshi anime skillfully narrates a compelling love story within a concise twenty-minute timeframe. Each relational encounter is characterized by playfulness, sassiness, and flirtatious undertones. A palpable sense of anticipation builds within the couple's romantic development, culminating in exhilarating displays of passion. However, their mutual affections appear somewhat superficial, resembling a pronounced physical attraction rather than a deep emotional connection. Furthermore, the narrative progression feels excessively accelerated, lacking substantive development. It would be prudent not to anticipate any particularly profound insights from this series.

  • School romance
  • Nice & heartwarming
  • 1 episode
  • 20 mins

Mignon (2023)

Mignon is an 18+ Korean BL anime series that explores the intense relationship between a cage fighter and a medical professional. The central character is an emerging boxer who participates in organized fights to earn financial rewards. Each brutal bout leaves him physically wounded and in need of medical attention. A compassionate physician tends to his injuries and persistently urges him to relinquish his perilous vocation. Despite the profound connection they share, a startling revelation irrevocably alters the trajectory of their relationship.

Mignon, a raw and sensuous anime, unveils a daring twist at the conclusion of its inaugural episode. The subsequent episodes meticulously document the couple's exhilarating trajectory amidst perilous circumstances. Characterized by numerous unexpected turns, this enthralling narrative skillfully elicits intrigue, anticipation, and a pervasive sense of brooding emotion. It also subtly hints at palpable romantic tension, culminating in a daring intimate encounter during the season finale. The stylish, atmospheric artwork contributes significantly to the overall cohesive and beautiful presentation.

  • 18+ drama
  • Dark & toxic
  • 12 episodes
  • 1 hour

My New Boss Is Goofy (2023)

My New Boss Is Goofy is a Japanese anime series that centers on an office employee and his guiding mentor. The protagonist recently resigned from his position at a workplace that was detrimental to his well-being. His previous employer engaged in psychologically abusive practices, which resulted in enduring trauma. The protagonist's new professional environment offers substantially improved working conditions. He develops a friendly rapport with a kind-hearted colleague, who provides solace through his unintentional displays of lightheartedness. Their burgeoning friendship aids him in recovering from his diminished sense of self-worth.

Although it does not strictly fall under the BL anime classification, My New Boss Is Goofy subtly implies a strong bromantic connection. The series thoughtfully incorporates sufficient hints to allow viewers to indulge in fantasies regarding the ambiguous workplace relationship. While I do harbor a desire for the romantic elements to be explicitly stated, I nonetheless derive considerable enjoyment from the warm and comforting interactions shared between the principal characters. Additionally, this delightful slice-of-life comedy is replete with uproarious jokes. It employs gentle humor as a therapeutic mechanism to examine the profound impact of emotional abuse and the subsequent recovery process.

  • Non-BL comedy
  • Happy & funny
  • 12 episodes
  • 5 hours

Sasaki and Miyano: Graduation (2023)

Sasaki and Miyano: Graduation represents the cinematic sequel to the highly regarded Japanese BL anime series. It meticulously continues the sweet romantic narrative of a high school couple who have recently embarked on their relationship. The central characters are compelled to discover effective methods for articulating their burgeoning feelings and exploring their physical desires. Furthermore, they harbor anxieties regarding how their friends and families will perceive and react to their romantic union. The protagonist also grapples with the inherent stress and uncertainty associated with the demanding university entrance examinations.

The Sasaki and Miyano film is poised to resonate deeply with enthusiasts of the original anime series. This exceptional sequel faithfully embodies the same genuine appeal and compassionate spirit that characterized its predecessor. It masterfully portrays the school romance with an enchanting touch, effectively capturing the exhilaration and tender moments experienced by a couple in the nascent stages of their relationship. Each interaction unfolds as if plucked from a teenage fantasy. Moreover, the film addresses mature themes with a delicate sensibility, exuding a remarkable degree of sincerity and profound emotional depth.

  • School romance
  • Nice & heartwarming
  • Movie
  • 1 hour

BL Anime in 2022

Mori no Kuma-san (2022)

Mori no Kuma-san, Toumin-chuu is an 18+ Japanese BL anime series that features anthropomorphic animals. The protagonist is a gentle bear who discovers an abandoned puppy and subsequently takes him in and adopts him into his household. At a later juncture, the bear enters a period of hibernation. Upon awakening, he finds that the puppy has undergone maturation from infancy and has developed a pronounced sexual drive. The characters are consequently compelled to navigate the ambiguous boundary between a familial bond and an overwhelming, irresistible attraction.

I maintain that it is inadvisable to approach Mori no Kuma-san with excessive seriousness, given its nature as a salacious anime possessing minimal substantive content. The narrative is heavily laden with gratuitous eroticism, while conspicuously lacking in other essential elements. Among its numerous deficiencies, the unsettling romantic dynamic between an adoptive parent figure and his rapidly maturing child is particularly troubling to me. Furthermore, a steamy romantic entanglement involving two animals holds no appeal whatsoever for me, especially when presented in a series as devoid of plot as this one.

  • 18+ erotica
  • Sexy & steamy
  • 9 episodes
  • 1 hour

Sasaki and Miyano (2022)

Sasaki and Miyano is a BL anime series that beautifully depicts the tender romantic journey between two high school students. The central character is an ardent admirer of BL content who forms a friendship with an older student, introducing him to the captivating universe of Boys' Love manga. As they cultivate their shared interests, their relationship evolves from a casual acquaintance to a budding mutual attraction. However, the protagonist experiences hesitation in fully acknowledging his burgeoning feelings and harbors insecurities regarding the prospect of a romantic relationship.

I hold a deep affection for the endearing characters, the emotionally resonant romance, and the empathetic messages conveyed throughout Sasaki and Miyano. This deeply felt series offers a poignant coming-of-age narrative. The storyline tenderly portrays a wholesome teenage infatuation with both warmth and compassion. Its essence reminds me of a comforting Young Adult novel, effectively capturing the exhilarating emotions associated with experiencing love for the very first time. This sweet and gentle anime is sure to appeal to a vast audience of BL genre enthusiasts.

  • School romance
  • Nice & gentle
  • 12 episodes
  • 5 hours

BL Anime in 2021

Dakaichi: Spain Arc (2021)

Dakaichi: Spain Arc serves as the cinematic sequel to the popular Japanese BL anime series, Dakaichi. This particular film continues the tumultuous romantic narrative of two renowned actors. The protagonist embarks on a journey to Spain with the objective of refining his dancing techniques in preparation for an upcoming theatrical production. During his travels, he encounters a cast of eccentric yet memorable local inhabitants who share a historical connection with his romantic interest.

The Dakaichi movie presents a somewhat superficial and meandering plot that takes a considerable amount of time to reach its intended conclusion. Later on, the narrative gains momentum with a few impactful scenes that leave a lasting emotional impression. This cinematic offering is distinguished by its stylish presentation and evocative atmosphere, complemented by visually stunning cinematography. Regrettably, it persists in glorifying regrettable nonconsensual encounters, much like the original series did.

  • Romance
  • Nice & gentle
  • Movie
  • 75 minutes

Fairy Ranmaru (2021)

Fairy Ranmaru is a fantasy anime series that subtly incorporates homoerotic themes. The narrative primarily follows the journey of five fairies originating from a fallen kingdom. They descend into the human realm, utilizing their magical superpowers to assist various ordinary women in overcoming their individual predicaments. As the fairies actively strive to uphold justice, a malevolent adversary actively works against their efforts, aiming to sow seeds of discord and despair throughout the land.

Although Fairy Ranmaru features multiple instances of homosexual romance and intimate moments, the explicit BL content is presented with a rather limited degree of focus. Nevertheless, this overtly flamboyant anime qualifies as a titillating guilty pleasure, boasting provocative visuals, revealing attire, and an abundance of flamboyant flair. Unfortunately, this series is hampered by overly simplistic plotlines and formulaic episode structures, which consequently diminish its overall entertainment value.

  • Non-BL fantasy
  • Dramatic & intense
  • 12 episodes
  • 5 hours

Given: On the Other Hand (2021)

Given: On the Other Hand is a brief supplementary episode for the widely acclaimed Japanese BL anime. The story picks up immediately following the events of the initial film. The protagonist finds himself engaged in remedial classes during a period of leisurely summer vacation. He begins to notice a decrease in the amount of time his boyfriend spends with him, as the latter is now frequently associating with their bandmate. As their relationship experiences a gradual drift, the couple must confront their evolving feelings and actively work towards improving their communication.

As a twenty-minute anime special, Given: On the Other Hand effectively utilizes its limited runtime to convey a charming narrative featuring the beloved characters. I particularly appreciate the emphasis placed on the couple's evolving relationship, skillfully navigating the intricate dynamics of a newly formed romantic partnership. The special offers a pleasant blend of humor, playful flirtation, and heartfelt sentiment. However, the special ultimately proves too concise, necessitating compromises in its storytelling approach. The narrative would have benefited from further development to ensure a more significant impact.

  • School romance
  • Cute & sweet
  • 1 episode
  • 20 mins

Reincarnated Into Demon King Evelogia's World (2021)

Reincarnated Into Demon King Evelogia's World, also recognized as Everything for Demon King Evelogia, is an 18+ BL anime adaptation. Across its nine-episode run, a young man is transported into the simulated environment of a video game. There, he encounters the game's ultimate antagonist, a demon king who possesses an outwardly innocent demeanor, and together they commence an adventurous expedition. The anime is also available in an uncensored version, replete with explicit romantic scenes between the central characters.

Provided one adopts a relaxed approach to its narrative substance, Reincarnated Into Demon King Evelogia's World offers a rather imaginative experience for admirers of erotic content. Although it lacks a sophisticated plot or a coherent romantic development, this salacious yaoi series delivers a form of mindless amusement. It may not appeal to everyone's particular tastes, but I must confess that I found the anime to be more engaging than initially anticipated.

  • 18+ erotica
  • Sexy & steamy
  • 9 episodes
  • 1 hour

Semantic Error (2021)

Derived from a Korean literary work, Semantic Error is a slice-of-life BL anime series consisting of four brief episodes. The principal characters are two university students collaboratively engaged in a video game development project. Despite their markedly contrasting personalities, the palpable attraction between them is undeniable.

My initial impression of the Semantic Error anime was highly positive, as it demonstrated considerable potential through its captivating romance. Nevertheless, the series suffers from an unfortunately truncated length, offering merely fifteen minutes of content. Any semblance of narrative progression feels abbreviated, giving the impression of observing an incomplete remake that only encapsulates a small segment of the original source material.

  • Slice-of-life
  • Cute & sweet
  • 4 episodes
  • 15 minutes

The Night Beyond the Tricornered Window (2021)

The Night Beyond the Tricornered Window is a supernatural horror anime series that features understated BL undertones. The main characters leverage their paranormal abilities to expel spectral entities and cursed spirits from the terrestrial plane. As time progresses, their professional association evolves into the development of a profound and intimate bond.

With its high-concept narrative, The Night Beyond the Tricornered Window frequently proves confusing, failing to articulate its storyline with sufficient clarity. Furthermore, there is a notable deficiency in romantic content, which may disappoint fans of the BL genre. Nevertheless, this anime adaptation successfully immerses the viewer in a dark, compelling, and psychologically intense adventure. Despite my dissatisfaction with certain aspects, the series gradually grew on me, and I found myself appreciating it more than I had initially expected.

  • Non-BL horror
  • Dark & toxic
  • 12 episodes
  • 5 hours

BL Anime in 2020

Given Movie (2020)

Given Movie stands as the inaugural cinematic sequel to the Japanese BL series. It chronicles the experiences of an amateur rock band, their creative endeavors, and the romantic conflicts that arise within the group. The primary character is the charismatic drummer, known for his casual romantic liaisons with both men and women. He inadvertently creates friction due to his unrequited affection for his roommate, a skilled violinist. Concurrently, he develops feelings for the bassist in his band, thus engendering a complex romantic entanglement.

The Given movie places significant emphasis on a tumultuous love triangle, encompassing emotional distress, tearful confrontations, and an underlying current of sexual tension. For those individuals who cherished the original narrative, it is advisable to manage your expectations. Regrettably, the film fails to replicate the distinctive charm of the anime series. While the plot may be heavily saturated with melodrama, it conspicuously lacks subtlety, passion, and sophistication. I experienced a profound sense of dissatisfaction with the overall resolution of the storyline.

  • Romance
  • Sad & emotional
  • Movie
  • 1 hour

The Stranger by the Beach (2020)

Based on a manga adaptation, The Stranger by the Beach is a slice-of-life BL anime film that centers on two gentlemen residing on an island. They first encountered each other on the shoreline as strangers during their childhood years. Now that they have reached adulthood, their relationship has progressed to a more intimate stage.

The Stranger by the Beach is an aesthetically remarkable anime, distinguished by its vibrant and colorful visual presentation. However, its narrative execution is lamentably weak, the pacing is entirely discordant, and the movie does not appear particularly welcoming to individuals who have not familiarized themselves with the source material.

  • 18+ romance
  • Deep & mature
  • Movie
  • 1 hour

The Titan's Bride (2020)

The Titan's Bride is an 18+ BL anime that depicts an ordinary student who is magically transported to the realm of titans. Contrary to his wishes, the human protagonist is designated as the bride of a formidable titan king. He is compelled to adapt to his unfamiliar environment, the arranged matrimonial union, and a virile husband intent on sharing his affections.

Ugh, can you feel my visceral reaction? The Titan's Bride exemplifies the kind of abysmal BL that severely tests my commitment to viewing every series within this genre. I am of the opinion that this yaoi series is utterly devoid of merit in virtually every aspect, ranging from its problematic thematic elements to its ludicrous romantic portrayal. The narrative is incomprehensibly rushed, featuring shallow characters, absurd scenarios, and utterly pointless sexual encounters.

  • 18+ erotica
  • Sexy & steamy
  • 9 episodes
  • 1 hour

Twittering Birds Never Fly: The Clouds Gather is an animated film adapted from a yaoi manga. Although I had not previously read the source material, I believe I was able to comprehend the general essence of the storyline based solely on viewing the film adaptation.

With that acknowledgment, this particular anime proved to be considerably more intense than I had anticipated, thrusting me directly into the clandestine operations of the criminal underworld, involving a promiscuous yakuza member and the spiraling trajectory of his existence. It presents a provocative narrative exploring themes of carnal relations, authority, transgression, and, most significantly, the enduring consequences of inflicted trauma.

  • 18+ crime drama
  • Dark & toxic
  • Movie
  • 90 minutes

Yes, No, or Maybe Half (2020)

Yes, No, or Maybe Half? is a BL anime movie that is based on a Japanese light novel. The primary character is a television presenter who meticulously maintains a composed public demeanor, despite his actual personality being rather petty and prone to belligerence. Only his recent acquaintance has been privy to both facets of his character, yet remains oblivious to the fact that these two distinctly different personas belong to the same individual.

Considering its limited one-hour runtime, Yes, No, or Maybe Half effectively conveys a charming and engaging love story, proceeding at a comfortable and unhurried pace. This particular anime adeptly explores the concept of duality, examining the discrepancies between external appearances and internal behaviors.

  • 18+ romance
  • Nice & gentle
  • Movie
  • 50 minutes

BL Anime in 2019

Given (2019)

Given is a Japanese BL anime series that revolves around a musical band and their enigmatic new lead vocalist. The main character is a senior in high school who collaborates musically with university students. After establishing a friendship with a reserved classmate, he discovers his friend possesses a remarkably beautiful singing voice. The protagonist extends an invitation for him to join the band, believing this newcomer possesses untapped potential. However, his companion is secretly burdened by past emotional trauma.

The Given anime commences as a tender narrative focusing on music and interpersonal relationships. It captivates the audience with its uniquely drawn characters, endearing interactions, and the burgeoning development of a romantic connection. The series deliberately takes its time to build towards the central plot. Each episode gradually escalates in intensity, becoming more profound and emotionally resonant, tugging at the viewer's heartstrings. Towards its conclusion, the narrative reaches a powerful emotional crescendo, encapsulating a poignant journey of heartbreak and eventual recovery.

  • School romance
  • Mature & interesting
  • 11 episodes
  • 4 hours

Papa Datte, Shitai (2019)

Papa Datte, Shitai is an 18+ BL anime that features a single father and his young household helper. The protagonist is a divorced father juggling a full-time job with the responsibilities of raising his young son. He hires a new housekeeper to manage the domestic tasks. Their professional association rapidly transgresses boundaries as an undeniable attraction develops between the two men.

Initially, I dismissed Papa Datte, Shitai as mere superficial yaoi erotica, lacking any semblance of logic or substantive content. As the narrative unfolds, I am compelled, albeit reluctantly, to concede that the anime addresses more mature themes than initially anticipated. Nevertheless, this steamy series remains excessively superficial, gratuitously sleazy, and comically absurd, rendering it incapable of being taken seriously beyond its explicit sexual content.

  • 18+ erotica
  • Sexy & steamy
  • 8 episodes
  • 40 minutes

Partner's Territory (2019)

Partner's Territory is a concise slice-of-life Korean BL anime. The inaugural episode serves as a brief prologue, recounting a pivotal moment in the romantic journey of a gay couple. The subsequent episode functions as an extended epilogue, meticulously highlighting the contented domestic existence shared by the central characters. These two romantic partners reside together, frequently engage in passionate intimacy, and have even adopted a canine companion.

Loosely adapted from a webtoon, Partner's Territory exudes a relaxed ambiance, punctuated by numerous affectionate interactions between the central couple. Unfortunately, it conveys the impression of an incomplete narrative, offering merely glimpses of the beginning and end of their romance. This slice-of-life anime ultimately proves too brief, simplistic, and inconsequential to leave a lasting impression on the viewer.

  • Romance
  • Cute & sweet
  • 2 episodes
  • 15 minutes

Other BL Anime Series

Antique Bakery (2008)

Antique Bakery is an anime series that centers on a recently established patisserie. The proprietor hires a highly skilled and openly gay pastry chef, despite a history of past difficulties between them. They are joined by additional staff members, each possessing distinctive personalities, as the characters collaborate to ensure the successful growth of this enterprise.

Adapted from a manga source, Antique Bakery offers an entertaining experience through its endearing characters and charming narrative threads. It must be acknowledged that the BL content is presented with a minimal degree of emphasis and may not satisfy individuals anticipating a fully developed homosexual romance. Nevertheless, this anime skillfully interweaves lighthearted comedy with a touch of bittersweet melancholy, thereby crafting a consistently enjoyable viewing experience.

  • Non-BL drama
  • Deep & mature
  • 12 episodes
  • 5 hours

Dakaichi (2018)

Dakaichi: I'm Being Harassed by the Sexiest Man of the Year is a BL anime that explores the clandestine romance between two prominent celebrities. The main character is a highly talented actor renowned for his status as the most desirable man in the entertainment industry. However, he finds himself unsettled by the emergence of a rising star who is steadily eclipsing his own prominence. As they collaborate on a film project, their relationship becomes a complex interplay of tension and temptation.

The most glaring issue plaguing Dakaichi is its appallingly irresponsible approach to the concept of consent. This problematic anime unfortunately fetishizes numerous non-consensual sexual encounters, thereby establishing an unsettling and potentially harmful relationship dynamic. Even if certain aspects of the narrative are compelling, I remain profoundly disturbed by the pervasive presence of excessively toxic tropes.

  • 18+ romance
  • Spicy & romantic
  • 13 episodes
  • 5 hours

Hyperventilation (2017)

Hyperventilation is an 18+ Korean BL anime series composed of six brief episodes. The protagonist, during his high school years, experienced social ostracization due to a respiratory condition that frequently induced hyperventilation. He forged a connection with the popular class president, who displayed considerable empathy towards him. Years later, their paths cross once more during a school reunion, reigniting dormant sentiments between the former classmates.

I find myself thoroughly impressed by Hyperventilation, a breathtaking romantic narrative that genuinely resonates. The storyline is captivating and concludes with remarkable elegance within a mere fifteen minutes. Despite some inconsistencies in the artistic quality, this anime effectively maintains a beautiful atmosphere that accentuates the delicate emotions portrayed.

  • 18+ romance
  • Spicy & romantic
  • 6 episodes
  • 20 minutes

Love Stage (2014)

Love Stage!! is a BL anime series that places its primary focus on the intricacies of the celebrity world. The central character hails from a family deeply entrenched in the realms of acting and music, yet he personally harbors no aspiration for achieving fame. His world undergoes a profound transformation when one of the most celebrated celebrities develops a romantic inclination towards him.

My feelings towards Love Stage are quite mixed; it's a visually bright and energetic anime series unfortunately overshadowed by its problematic elements. What should have been a lighthearted romantic comedy is unfortunately marred by an uncomfortable central romance. Sadly, I cannot overlook the non-consensual relationship dynamic, which significantly detracts from any positive attributes this BL anime may possess.

  • Romance
  • Happy & funny
  • 10 episodes
  • 4 hours

Merman in My Tub (2014)

Merman in My Tub is a peculiar slice-of-life anime that has been adapted from a manga. This comedic series features an exceptionally large merman who cohabitates with a human in his bathroom. As the characters establish an unusual bond, they are occasionally joined by the merman's eccentric aquatic companions.

Merman in My Tub does not contain any BL content, although certain aspects might hold appeal for enthusiasts of the genre. This charming comedy possesses the ability to win over audiences with its lighthearted narratives, amusing characters, and unconventional humor. The series is perfectly enjoyable, provided one harbors no specific expectations regarding romantic relationships.

  • Non-BL slice-of-life
  • Happy & funny
  • 13 episodes
  • 1 hour

Someone Else's BL Cartoon (2018)

Someone Else's BL Cartoon is a Korean BL anime that depicts a high school romance. The narrative concentrates on a conventionally upright student who forms a friendship with a delinquent classmate. Their shared appreciation for music leads to the development of an unlikely camaraderie. As the two teenagers spend more time together, their platonic relationship begins to intensify.

Loosely predicated on a webtoon, Someone Else's BL Cartoon represents a profoundly disappointing adaptation. This low-budget series is plagued by a dull narrative, unappealing visuals, and a disjointed romantic storyline. Furthermore, the story abruptly ceases without offering any resolution to the viewers. It genuinely feels as though minimal effort was invested in the creation of this lamentable BL anime.

  • School romance
  • Sad & emotional
  • 11 episodes
  • 20 minutes

Yuri on Ice (2016)

Yuri!!! on Ice is a BL anime that chronicles a figure skater's arduous journey after experiencing a significant career setback. Just as the protagonist was contemplating abandoning his lifelong ambition, one of the elite professionals recognized his immense potential and agreed to serve as his mentor. Their instructor-student dynamic generated considerable discourse within the competitive skating community, as Yuri was propelled into a whirlwind of experiences throughout his professional career.

Anyone familiar with both BL and anime recognizes Yuri!!! on Ice as a quintessential series, consistently appearing on recommendation lists for the finest BL anime. With its crisp animation, vividly drawn characters, and captivating plotlines, I can confidently affirm that Yuri on Ice truly lives up to the substantial anticipation surrounding it. This series is widely regarded as the benchmark for all BL anime that have followed.

  • Sports drama
  • Deep & mature
  • 12 episodes
  • 5 hours