The Best Donghua to Watch in 2023
Donghua, the Chinese term for animation, has become a global phenomenon in recent years, offering captivating stories and stunning visuals that rival their Western counterparts. Whether you're a seasoned anime fan or a curious newcomer, this list features some of the best donghua currently available. Get ready to dive into a world of vibrant characters, exciting plots, and breathtaking animation!
Action and Adventure
1. The King's Avatar (全职高手)
- Synopsis: A professional gamer, Ye Xiu, is forced to retire from his beloved game Glory. He starts anew in a small internet cafe, using his unparalleled skills to climb the ranks and reclaim his title.
- Why You Should Watch It: The series is a beloved classic with compelling characters, a thrilling narrative, and a unique blend of esports and fantasy.
2. Soul Land (斗罗大陆)
- Synopsis: Tang San, a young boy with a special ability, embarks on a journey to become a powerful spirit master in a world where spirits and humans coexist.
- Why You Should Watch It: Fans of fantasy and martial arts will appreciate the epic scope, vibrant world-building, and intense action sequences.
3. Rakshasa Street (镇魂街)
- Synopsis: A young man named Cao Yanbing inherits the power of a legendary guardian spirit and must fight alongside him to protect the world from evil forces.
- Why You Should Watch It: Filled with supernatural elements, historical mysteries, and action-packed battles, this series offers a unique blend of genres.
Fantasy and Romance
4. The Daily Life of the Immortal King (仙王的日常生活)
- Synopsis: A powerful immortal king reincarnates as an ordinary high school student, struggling to balance his mundane life with his extraordinary powers.
- Why You Should Watch It: The hilarious mix of comedy, fantasy, and romance makes this series a delightful watch.
5. Mo Dao Zu Shi (魔道祖师)
- Synopsis: Wei Wuxian, a powerful cultivator, is betrayed and killed, only to be resurrected years later to face the consequences of his past actions.
- Why You Should Watch It: This series is a captivating blend of action, romance, and intricate world-building.
6. Hitori no Shita: The Outcast (一人之下)
- Synopsis: Zhang Chulan, a young man who possesses supernatural abilities, joins a hidden society dedicated to protecting the world from supernatural threats.
- Why You Should Watch It: The series boasts a captivating premise, engaging characters, and a unique blend of martial arts, fantasy, and supernatural elements.
Sci-Fi and Psychological Thrillers
7. Ling Cage (灵笼)
- Synopsis: Set in a post-apocalyptic world dominated by mutated creatures, humanity struggles to survive in fortified underground shelters.
- Why You Should Watch It: The series explores themes of survival, hope, and the human spirit against a backdrop of stunning CGI animation.
8. The Scum Villain's Self-Saving System (魔道祖师)
- Synopsis: A villainous character from a popular novel decides to change his fate and save himself from a tragic end.
- Why You Should Watch It: The series offers a unique perspective on classic tropes, witty humor, and complex characters.
9. Under One Person (一人之下)
- Synopsis: Zhang Chulan, a young man who possesses supernatural abilities, embarks on a journey to uncover the truth about his past and the mysterious world around him.
- Why You Should Watch It: This series explores themes of identity, family, and the struggle for freedom.
10. Grandmaster of Demonic Cultivation (魔道祖师)
- Synopsis: Wei Wuxian, a powerful cultivator, is betrayed and killed, only to be resurrected years later to face the consequences of his past actions.
- Why You Should Watch It: The series is a captivating blend of action, romance, and intricate world-building.
This is just a glimpse into the vast and exciting world of donghua. With its growing popularity, donghua is sure to continue pushing boundaries and captivating audiences worldwide. So, explore the world of Chinese animation, and discover your next favorite series!