Hello everyone, I'm Xue Di.
April means what? It means another season of anime has concluded, and that fresh shows are ready for viewing!
Let's not rush into the April new releases just yet, let's let the dust settle a bit.
But first, let me guide you through the five recommended anime that stood out to me from the January 2024 season.
Dreaming of Becoming a Magical Girl

I couldn't believe it when I heard this title was getting an anime adaptation, "Dreaming of Becoming a Magical Girl." Is this really going to fly under censorship radar?! XD
The previous work by the original author Akira Ononaka, "Taste Kumikka," had a warm, culinary vibe. But who could've expected such a dramatic leap in style with this one? I practically dropped my jaw, wondering if the author was on something when they came up with it.
The story follows Maweetina, a devoted magical girl fan, who gets hit up by the indispensable mascot character from magical girl series. But after transforming, she shockingly finds out she's on the side of the evil organization. Despite it all, she realizes her inner urge for domination during duels with her favorite magical girls and builds deep bonds with her comrades in the evil faction.
Although the animation felt a bit cheap in many scenes, the voice acting and major performances really shine, making it highly recommended, especially for those who love some sweet yuri action!

Watch for free online: Dreaming of Becoming a Magical Girl
King of Bravery BANG BRAVERN

Bang Bang Bang Brave!!!
After some yuri sweetness, it's time for some steamy male mech action (?).
Bravery isn't just the unexpected hit of the season; it started off like any realistic mech anime but then threw us for a loop with a super robot fixated on the male lead.
It’s a mix of comedy, action, and charm. Who could resist a robot that assembles itself, fights with its own BGM, and beams projecting effects?
Watch for free online: King of Bravery BANG BRAVERN
Dungeon Meshi

To save his sister swallowed by a dragon, Laios dives back into the dungeon, but he's strapped for resources. His solution? Eating the monsters!
This series is a delightful mix of fantasy and culinary adventure, with a healthy serving of fanservice, including the dwarf uncle Senshi. Watching Marsille go from reluctance to eagerly trying dungeon cuisine is a treat!

Even though it plays it safe, Dungeon Meshi stands out precisely because it's rare these days to find anime that tells a well-rounded story. It’s the perfect light-hearted watch!
Watch for free online: King of Bravery BANG BRAVERN
My Shades of Thoughts Season 2

Pure love supremacy! OP supremacy!!
The first season of "My Shades of Thoughts" had a slow start but picked up speed, and the second season maintains high standards, particularly with the OP, which many are predicting to be the best of the year with its fully hand-drawn dance sequences—simply unbeatable!
While many modern "pure love" stories fall flat with lackluster execution, this show meticulously portrays the male lead's innermost thoughts and skillfully uses light and angle to delicately chart the emotional development between the leads.
If you’re looking for something that'll fill your heart, make you giggle at the cute interactions, or send you spinning on your bed, don't miss this masterpiece!
Watch for free online: My Shades of Thoughts Season 2
Frieren: Beyond Journey's End Season 2

"Frieren" continues to captivate with its second season—shifting its focus from the road trip style of the first to a group drama centered on the Level 1 Mage Exam.
While the pace might seem slow for some, it's the characters' grand moments that steal the show. With memorable faces like Iron Fist Dunkan, Sisso's luscious feet, the child-lifting Metedei nee-chan, grumpy Ferron, and others, it's bursting with personality and flair, ensuring you're hooked throughout.
Watch for free online: Frieren: Beyond Journey's End Season 2