Like other forms of storytelling, most anime narratives follow a chronological order. Maybe a flashback or two are thrown in for dramatic effect or a big reveal. Sometimes a timeskip happens, and we love to see those new character designs. It’s all standard practice. But occasionally some stories decide to go off the linear path to create unique situations and conflicts for characters. So let’s go over some of our favorite anime that play with time.
We’ll start off with a classic from Mamoru Hosoda: The Girl Who Leapt Through Time. Even as it celebrates its 20th anniversary this year, the film remains to be a timeless coming-of-age story. Makoto Konno discovers she has the power to jump back in time and begins to use it to make her school life easier. But eventually she realizes there’s a catch.
Orange has a slightly different take on time. High schooler Naho Takamiya receives a letter from her future self, warning her about the tragic loss of a dear friend. Fair warning, though, the series is known for some heavy themes so have a box of tissues at the ready. There’s also a sequel film for fans who want a different perspective on the story.
Although plenty of time-bending anime fall under the fantasy genre, Steins;Gate leans more towards sci-fi. Based on the 2009 visual novel of the same name, the series follows a group of researchers who discover a way to send messages to the past thereby creating alternate timelines as events unfold. This show is for viewers who prefer mystery and drama while trying to untangle the complications caused by manipulating time. And visual novel enjoyers can look forward to the upcoming visual novel reboot set to release this year.
Most time travel plots focus on someone jumping back in time. But in the case of Thermae Romae, an architect from Ancient Rome named Lucius finds himself in modern day Japan. He takes this opportunity to enjoy Japanese bath culture while drawing inspiration from these new experiences. This lighthearted comedy is a low-stakes spin on the time-slip trope.
Finally, we’re returning to the classic “going back in time” type of time travel via Nobunaga Concerto. When a high school student suddenly gets stuck in the Sengoku Period—a tumultuous era that took place centuries ago—he has to figure out how to survive and make sure that history stays on track. This anime is packed with adventure, drama, and comedy and comes with a star-studded Japanese voice cast.
So when you’ve got time to spare, give these anime a shot. Some of them might surprise you with a plot twist or they might just be the kind of show you need at the moment. And we know there are plenty more time travel anime out there. If it didn’t make the list, drop your recommendation in our socials, but be sure to keep them spoiler free!
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Written by Alon Bramble for TOM News
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