Winter is almost over, but anime streaming services have only just released their English-dub lineups for winter 2018. Finally, dub fans will get a chance to watch the winter favorites their sub-loving counterparts have been raving about. Here are five English-dubbed anime shows you should watch this winter.
DARLING in the FRANXX
- Premiere date: February 1, 2018
- Studio: A-1 Pictures and Trigger
- Genre(s): Sci-fi, Mecha
- Where to watch: Funimation
DARLING in the FRANXX takes place in a war-plagued future where children live in cages. The children solely exist to pilot giant mechas called FranXX against a mysterious race known as the Kyoryu. Hiro, our protagonist, was once considered one of the best FRANXX navigators. That is until he lost his ability to pilot the giant robots and, subsequently, the admiration of his peers. After all, not piloting a FRANXX is the same as not existing. However, when Hiro meets Zero Two, a strange girl with horns, his luck begins to change.
Kakegurui: Compulsive Gambler
- Premiere date: February 1, 2018
- Studio: MAPPA
- Genre(s): Drama, Game, Mystery, Psychological, School, Shounen
- Where to watch: Netflix
The high-stakes gambling anime, Kakegurui, was a surprise hit last summer. So, of course, Netflix decided to stream the English-dubbed version to reach a broader audience. In Kakegurui, the students spend their days studying traditional school subjects. But when night falls, the real lessons begin. High-rolling teenage gamblers play kids games, such as rock-paper-scissors, but if the player loses, they must become the winner’s servant. Kakegurui is an unexpected adrenaline rush. With a thrilling story, an awesome soundtrack, and insane characters, this anime will keep you hooked.
Pop Team Epic
- Premiere date: January 22, 2018
- Studio: Kamikaze Douga
- Genre(s): Comedy, Parody
- Where to watch: Funimation
Pop Team Epic follows two girls, quick-tempered Popuko and the calm Pipimi. Their absurd adventures are full of odd, dark humor that will have you clutching your pearls. If that isn’t enough to worry your grandparents, then the girls’ potty mouths will. Despite its crudeness, Pop Team Epic has achieved internet fame. There may be no rhyme or reason behind anything that the girls do, but that’s a part of the show’s charm. If you are looking for a laugh, then this is the anime for you.
Karakai Jouzu no Takagi-san
- Premiere date: January 28, 2018
- Studio: Shin-Ei Animation
- Genre(s): Slice of Life, Comedy, Romance, School, Shounen
- Where to watch: Funimation
“If you blush, you lose,” is a principle that middle schooler Nishikata knows all too well. Tired of his classmate, Takagi-san’s, teasing, Nishikata intends to turn the tables on her and get revenge. But is Takagi-san’s continuous pestering a front for something else? Something beautiful? Will the young Nishikata ever learn Takagi-san’s true intention? This winter 2018 season has many slice-of-life shows, but Karakai Jouzu no Takagi-san is one that you should check out. Not only will it make you laugh, it will fill your heart with joy.
Dagashi Kashi 2
- Premiere date: January 29, 2018
- Studio: Tezuka Productions
- Genre(s): Slice of Life, Comedy, Shounen
- Where to watch: Funimation
In Dagashi Kashi 2, Kokonotsu continues to pursue his dream of becoming a shoujo manga artist. However, his family wants him to join the family business, a shop that sells traditional Japanese candy. When Hotaru, a lover of dagashi (candy), finds out about Kokonotsu’s plans, she (along with his other friends) decides to do everything possible to push him into the candy business. Will Hotaru sway the aspiring manga artist to take over his father’s sweet shop? Or will he broaden his horizons and follow his dreams?
