Romance is a popular genre within the anime community, but it’s not everyone’s chosen cup of tea. Sometimes, series about romantic love and couples getting together aren’t one’s go-to. Others would prefer watching something else -- maybe something more wholesome, funnier, or whatever falls on the opposite spectrum of romance.
With Valentine’s Day coming up, there’s surely a significant demographic that refuses to conform to this holiday’s traditions. So what better way to “celebrate” than watching anything and everything but romance? Here are some of the best no-romance anime to watch for Valentine’s Day 2022.
Life Lessons with Uramichi-Oniisan
Some people will be alone this Valentine’s, and that’s completely fine -- so why not just laugh about life’s hardships instead? Life Lessons with Uramichi-Oniisan is a comedy series that navigates through the painful realities of being an adult. It follows Uramichi, a former gymnast who works for a children’s show called Together with Maman.
Just like most adults, he despises his job -- but due to its specific nature, he has to maintain a cheerful disposition. However, his pessimistic outlook on life never fails to seep through the cracks. As such, Uramichi ends up teaching the kids (and viewers) about the harsh experiences of being a grown-up through the lens of comedy. Despite its dark humor, Uramichi-Oniisan actually has a lot of uplifting messages.
K-On!: Wholesome Relaxing Vibes and Standout Music
Valentine’s does not have to be limited to romantic love. Solid, wholesome friendships are just as meaningful -- which is exactly what the classic slice of life anime K-On! has to offer. The story focuses on five high school girls -- Hirasawa Yui, Tainaka Ritsu, Akiyama Mio, Kotobuki Tsumugi and Nakano Azusa -- and their light music club.
They end up forming a band called Ho-Kago (After School) Tea Time. While K-On! simply revolves around their lives as students, musicians and friends, the distinct characters and storytelling overall give off a feel-good atmosphere. In addition, the soundtrack features numerous iconic hits that are worth listening to.
Haikyuu!!, The Fun and Intense Volleyball Anime
Perhaps there are some anime fans who instead want to feel inspired and motivated this Valentine’s. This volleyball series contains a diverse set of lovable characters, making it difficult to side with just one team. Haikyuu!! follows Hinata Shoyo, who’s determined to be an amazing spiker despite his short stature, and Kageyama Tobio, a setter prodigy.
After their first encounter at a junior high tournament, a rivalry ensues. Hinata and Kageyama end up attending Karasuno High School and become part of the same volleyball team. Their rivalry and competitiveness turn out to be advantageous for the team. Alongside the rest of the Karasuno Volleyball Club, Haikyuu!! explores the team’s journey toward making it to the top.
Haven’t You Heard? I’m Sakamoto
Haven't You Heard? I'm Sakamoto's titular protagonist is the pure embodiment of perfection. Almost everyone loves him; he’s known as the coolest student in school and is the type to have a crowd of screaming girls fawning over him. Unfortunately, some students and a teacher think he’s overrated.
But no matter how hard they try to sabotage him, the odds are always in Sakamoto’s favor. Even if he’s placed in a difficult or awkward situation, Sakamoto somehow manages to turn everything around. Whether it’s cleaning the classroom, putting out a fire, or flying off the school building during an evacuation drill, he always makes it look hilariously flawless and perfect.
Dorohedoro: The Perfect Comedy/Violence Mix for Anti-Valentine's
For those who feel like choosing something violent on Valentine’s, watching Dorohedoro is the way to go. The story is set in a place called the Hole, a dark and lawless area that serves as a “training” ground for sorcerers where they experiment on powerless humans. This gory yet comedic action series centers around Caiman, a man with a reptile head who has forgotten his identity and background.
To find answers regarding his past and the sorcerer who transformed him, he and his friend Nikaido attack sorcerers who come to the Hole. Eventually they cross paths with a syndicate called The En Family, and Caiman is finally closer to getting some answers.
