While a few anime boost episode counts in the triple digits, most series are fortunate to receive even a single season. For some, a dozen episodes is plenty of time to develop a well-executed, satisfying narrative. But for other series, the short span results in loose plot threads and inadequate endings.

Warning: light spoilers ahead.

1. Noragami

Image of cast of Norigami

Although Noragami has had two successful seasons with conclusive endings, a third should be considered. Noragami Aragoto accomplished what other series sequels should strive for: highlighting the strengths of its predecessor while shedding light on prior loose ends. In addition, the follow up series further fleshed out characters, developed more intense drama, and executed a few successful, dynamic plot twists.

As viewers anticipated, the second season’s finale tied up most major arcs nicely. Despite Ebisu’s perfunctory resolution, the audience was left gratified with a sense of completion. Unfortunately, the same cannot be said for the main character, Yato. The finale concluded by destroying even the vaguest notions viewers surmised about Yato’s origins.

Creating anticipation for future events, with no guarantee of a third season, is unfair. Yato’s origins, though always cloaked in mystery, was seemingly discarded as other compelling arcs unfolded. At the end of the second season’s finale, a major reveal upends the entire narrative surrounding Yato’s past. I can only surmise this was to assure a third season for Norgami. Since Norgami Aragato ended in 2015, only time will tell if this cliffhanger will garner enough demand for another season.

2. Kokoro Connect

Image of cast of Kokoro Connect

There is no surprise that Kokoro Connect ended up on my list. Despite a few idealized situations and a bizarre love triangle, the strength of this series lies in the organic nature of its characters and unique overarching plot. But with an unsatisfying, ambiguous ending, viewers were left with more questions than answers.

The downfall derives from disjointed story arcs that foster an artificial environment. Considering the distinctive plot is what initially drew my interest, it made for a rather disappointing viewing experience. The random events involving body swapping and age regression are intriguing enough, in theory. But without a solid narrative to support these developments, the small progression that does take place is weakened.   

Despite these disappointments, a plausible resolution is deserved. The characters are thoroughly fleshed out, in a way meant to nurture viewer investment. Their inner dialogue and struggles exhibit an array of emotions: despair, fear, rejection, anticipation; all of which resonate with the audience. This connection to the cast makes it difficult to accept such a muddled ending. Though the follow up OVAs, I’m told, establish a more solid conclusion, a series shouldn’t rely on content outside the season to wrap up narrative arcs.

3. SpiritPact

Image of Ki and Keika from Spirit Pact

For those of you who followed along with Weekend Otaku’s and my Winter 2017 Viewing Party, may recall how passionate I grew over this series. This enthusiasm manifested itself through re-watching every episode and establishing detailed theories involving hidden symbolism and vague references in dialogue.

For all the queries and theories that surrounded this series, a few lingering threads remained. The finale closes with a satisfying cliffhanger. You know, the sort of cliffhanger that seems to say, “all your major questions have been answered, but now you want more, right?” Yes, yes I do. But why?

Sordid family histories unfolding amid dramatic story arcs, paranormal entities, and a well guarded secret casts enough intrigue to draw viewers in. Yet even in a world rampant with demonic influences, trepidation should be cast elsewhere, according to the protagonist– “there are things in this world more frightening than evil spirits, those are humans.” While this revelation invoked the expected reaction of piqued curiosity, with a side of anticipation, the series ends with only hints of this proclamation being explored.

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Out of this list, SpiritPact is the series that has the most likely chance of snagging a second season. The manhua source, Spirit Contract, and the Chinese anime adaptation, Ling Qi, has managed to cultivated an impressive following. Adding to this, the narrative has already been expanded on, well past the initial story, in the manhua. Unfortunately for fans not proficient in Chinese vernacular, there is no English or Japanese translation currently in print. 

 

Certainly this list is not all-inclusive. There are no shortage of series that deserve another season. For that reason, I have planned to follow this post with a second part (a ‘season 2,’ if you will). Even so, I am curious to know what anime series do you feel deserve a second, third, infinite number of seasons? Do you agree with the choices I’ve made, and the reasons behind them? Let me know in the comments below!