BL anime recommendations (including "bait")
Anime
The BL anime included are labelled 'uncontroversial', 'partly controversial', 'controversial', and 'bait' to better help you find something to your liking. Those labels mainly refer to how healthy the relationships depicted are, and whether those relationships are explicitly romantic.
[Boys love, yaoi, shounen ai, male-male romance]
[Boys love, yaoi, shounen ai, male-male romance]
Gwahoheub
Hyperventilation
ONA, 2017,
6 eps
Me:-
Author:10
'Uncontroversial'.
An immensely beautiful story told in a very short run time, but to even greater effect because of it. Includes explicit sex scenes, in case that's relevant.
An immensely beautiful story told in a very short run time, but to even greater effect because of it. Includes explicit sex scenes, in case that's relevant.
ONA, 2021,
4 eps
Me:-
Author:9
'Uncontroversial'.
A great couple that meet each other at eye level and make an effort to treat each other well (even if it might not seem so initially).
A great couple that meet each other at eye level and make an effort to treat each other well (even if it might not seem so initially).
OVA, 2012,
2 eps
Me:-
Author:7
'Uncontroversial'.
Doesn't have the most impressive story, but a healthy relationship dynamic.
Doesn't have the most impressive story, but a healthy relationship dynamic.
30-sai made Doutei dato Mahoutsukai ni Nareru Rashii
Cherry Magic! Thirty Years of Virginity Can Make You a Wizard?!
TV, 2024,
12 eps
Me:-
Author:8
'Uncontroversial'.
A love story between two colleagues, one of which has gained the power to read minds when touching people. This magic aspect isn't just a gimmick, though, but is surprisingly well explored! The characters have flaws (e.g. jelousy) and conflicts, but address and deal with them in a reasonable manner. Thus, their relationship is refreshingly healthy and feels very real, despite the mind reading. The ending is a bit rushed and a bit too perfect (imo), but still sweet.
A love story between two colleagues, one of which has gained the power to read minds when touching people. This magic aspect isn't just a gimmick, though, but is surprisingly well explored! The characters have flaws (e.g. jelousy) and conflicts, but address and deal with them in a reasonable manner. Thus, their relationship is refreshingly healthy and feels very real, despite the mind reading. The ending is a bit rushed and a bit too perfect (imo), but still sweet.
Kono Danshi, Ningyo Hiroimashita.
This Boy Caught A Merman
OVA, 2012,
1 ep
Me:-
Author:8
'Uncontroversial', provided you give the anime the benefit of the doubt and assume Isaki isn't much older than Shima.
Very wholesome! Deals with trauma without getting overly dramatic. Their relationship develops further than most anime couples'. Has a good English dub.
Very wholesome! Deals with trauma without getting overly dramatic. Their relationship develops further than most anime couples'. Has a good English dub.
Doukyuusei (Movie)
Doukyusei -Classmates-
Movie, 2016,
1 ep
Me:-
Author:10
'Uncontroversial'.
Two very likable MCs, satisfying relationship progress, and no unnecessary melodrama.
Two very likable MCs, satisfying relationship progress, and no unnecessary melodrama.
Sasaki to Miyano
Sasaki and Miyano
TV, 2022,
12 eps
Me:-
Author:10
'Uncontroversial'.
The synopsis on MAL is very misleading, if not to say inaccurate. Please watch trailers and/or the OP for a first impression instead. Particularly the latter perfectly shows what a healthy, fluffy, feel good anime this is. Issues such as homophobia and toxic relationships are explored through the side characters instead of the main couple, so that the anime feels extremely wholesome without being unrealistically positive.
The synopsis on MAL is very misleading, if not to say inaccurate. Please watch trailers and/or the OP for a first impression instead. Particularly the latter perfectly shows what a healthy, fluffy, feel good anime this is. Issues such as homophobia and toxic relationships are explored through the side characters instead of the main couple, so that the anime feels extremely wholesome without being unrealistically positive.
TV, 2019,
11 eps
Me:-
Author:10
'Uncontroversial', except for maybe one scene in the sequel movie, but unlike dub con narratives, the matter is treated as an issue, not something harmless and/or sexy.
'Given' is a gripping story about loss, heartache, and connection. The first episode has a few rough edges, but viewers should be won over quickly . Make sure to watch the OVA "Given: Uragawa no Sonzai" alongside the movie to not miss out on the Mafuyu+Uenoyama content of the second arc.
'Given' is a gripping story about loss, heartache, and connection. The first episode has a few rough edges, but viewers should be won over quickly . Make sure to watch the OVA "Given: Uragawa no Sonzai" alongside the movie to not miss out on the Mafuyu+Uenoyama content of the second arc.
Fuyu no Semi
Embracing Love: A Cicada in Winter
OVA, 2007,
3 eps
Me:-
Author:8
'Uncontroversial'.
The visuals might take some getting used to, but the tragic plot is very impactful and moving regardless.
The visuals might take some getting used to, but the tragic plot is very impactful and moving regardless.
ONA, 2023,
12 eps
Me:-
Author:9
Made 'partly controversial' only because of the post credit scene in episode 12.
An extremely suspenseful and very touching story about two men living under very difficult circumstances. What it lacks in animation it more than makes up for through its visual direction, music, and sound design. My only criticism is the before mentioned post credit scene in episode 12.
An extremely suspenseful and very touching story about two men living under very difficult circumstances. What it lacks in animation it more than makes up for through its visual direction, music, and sound design. My only criticism is the before mentioned post credit scene in episode 12.
Mask Danshi wa Koishitakunai noni
Mask Danshi: This Shouldn't Lead to Love
OVA, 2023,
1 ep
Me:-
Author:7
'Partly controversial'.
Their relationship is abusive in the beginning, but becomes supportive and sweet by the end. Since this is only one episode, things feel a bit rushed in some places, but Sayama's backstory and character development are still given a surprising amount of depth.
Their relationship is abusive in the beginning, but becomes supportive and sweet by the end. Since this is only one episode, things feel a bit rushed in some places, but Sayama's backstory and character development are still given a surprising amount of depth.
ONA, 2018,
30 eps
Me:-
Author:7
'Partly controversial'.
Tells the story of two relationships which both have a (rather) bad start, but become very loving by the end, particularly the second one. The Hiraguchi brothers have reasons for acting the way they do, and while that's not an excuse, it helps them redeem themselves in the eye of the viewer when they see the error of their ways and become better people. Fumizawa's behaviour remains concerning, but even so, the happy ending makes it hard not to call this anime an enjoyable watch.
Tells the story of two relationships which both have a (rather) bad start, but become very loving by the end, particularly the second one. The Hiraguchi brothers have reasons for acting the way they do, and while that's not an excuse, it helps them redeem themselves in the eye of the viewer when they see the error of their ways and become better people. Fumizawa's behaviour remains concerning, but even so, the happy ending makes it hard not to call this anime an enjoyable watch.
ONA, 2018,
12 eps
Me:-
Author:8
'Partly controversial'.
Features surprisingly nuanced characters and many cute scenarios, but unfortunately also an age gap, plus grooming in S2.
Features surprisingly nuanced characters and many cute scenarios, but unfortunately also an age gap, plus grooming in S2.
TV, 2014,
10 eps
Me:-
Author:7
'Partly controversial'.
Has a few scenes in which personal boundaries are crossed, but is still a very solid BL overall. According to my personal experience, you can still enjoy it very much even if you don't like the art style AT ALL. The story gets continued in the special, so don't forget to watch it! Has a very good English dub (featuring almost every notable voice from Haikyuu). The special didn't get dubbed, unfortunately.
Has a few scenes in which personal boundaries are crossed, but is still a very solid BL overall. According to my personal experience, you can still enjoy it very much even if you don't like the art style AT ALL. The story gets continued in the special, so don't forget to watch it! Has a very good English dub (featuring almost every notable voice from Haikyuu). The special didn't get dubbed, unfortunately.
TV, 2017,
12 eps
Me:-
Author:7
'Partly controversial'.
Hasekura and Kensuke's relationship is abusive at the beginning and Masahiro and Kousuke's has a very uneven power dynamic due to their age difference. The good moments predominate, though. Has a good English dub.
Hasekura and Kensuke's relationship is abusive at the beginning and Masahiro and Kousuke's has a very uneven power dynamic due to their age difference. The good moments predominate, though. Has a good English dub.
Yes ka No ka Hanbun ka
Yes, No, or Maybe?
Movie, 2020,
1 ep
Me:-
Author:6
'Partly controversial'.
A mostly enjoyable story about two men learning to respect, value, and ultimately love each other. Its only major flaw is one scene during the last couple of minutes which completely undermines the whole relationship development until this point. It's a truly sad case of wasted potential, but I'd argue that the story before that scene is so good that the anime can still be regarded worth watching overall.
A mostly enjoyable story about two men learning to respect, value, and ultimately love each other. Its only major flaw is one scene during the last couple of minutes which completely undermines the whole relationship development until this point. It's a truly sad case of wasted potential, but I'd argue that the story before that scene is so good that the anime can still be regarded worth watching overall.
Movie, 2014,
1 ep
Me:-
Author:7
'Partly controversial'.
Almost uncontroversial and actually wholesome, despite it being part of the Sekaiichi Hatsukoi franchise. I'd even go so far as to call a specific scene on a balcony beautiful. This movie achieved the impossible: It made Yokozawa likeable! Needless to say, it's recommended to watch the Sekaiichi hatsukoi main series first. More on that below.
Almost uncontroversial and actually wholesome, despite it being part of the Sekaiichi Hatsukoi franchise. I'd even go so far as to call a specific scene on a balcony beautiful. This movie achieved the impossible: It made Yokozawa likeable! Needless to say, it's recommended to watch the Sekaiichi hatsukoi main series first. More on that below.
Sekaiichi Hatsukoi
Sekai Ichi Hatsukoi - World's Greatest First Love
TV, 2011,
12 eps
Me:-
Author:5
'Controversial'.
The only controversial BL I dare recommend, for the simple reason that it could be quite good if it got rid of all the abusive behaviour. The writing would still be of questionable quality, but that's part of the appeal.
The only controversial BL I dare recommend, for the simple reason that it could be quite good if it got rid of all the abusive behaviour. The writing would still be of questionable quality, but that's part of the appeal.
Atarashii Joushi wa Do Tennen
My New Boss Is Goofy
TV, 2023,
12 eps
Me:-
Author:10
'Bait'.
A story about four colleagues turned friends who are refreshingly open about their feelings and who do their best to make each other feel comfortable, valued, and happy. It's not soppy, though, it's absolutley hilarious! Besides one running gag that might become a bit old, the humour is on point, resulting in a dopamine inducing mix of cuteness, wholesomeness, and hilarity. The anime is also surprisingly progressive (one of the guys is openly bisexual) and sends an important message about growing as a person and finding happiness in life. In case you don't like the cat: Neither did I (at first), and I still enjoyed myself immensely, so don't let that bother you.
A story about four colleagues turned friends who are refreshingly open about their feelings and who do their best to make each other feel comfortable, valued, and happy. It's not soppy, though, it's absolutley hilarious! Besides one running gag that might become a bit old, the humour is on point, resulting in a dopamine inducing mix of cuteness, wholesomeness, and hilarity. The anime is also surprisingly progressive (one of the guys is openly bisexual) and sends an important message about growing as a person and finding happiness in life. In case you don't like the cat: Neither did I (at first), and I still enjoyed myself immensely, so don't let that bother you.
SK∞
SK8 the Infinity
TV, 2021,
12 eps
Me:-
Author:9
'Bait'.
So! Much! Fun!! My only criticism is that one of the side characters remains abusive. Loved the OP. The English dub is LEGENDARY.
So! Much! Fun!! My only criticism is that one of the side characters remains abusive. Loved the OP. The English dub is LEGENDARY.
Cool Doji Danshi
Play It Cool, Guys
TV, 2022,
24 eps
Me:-
Author:9
'Bait'.
An adorable and wholesome anime around four, later five, guys who are as likable as they are clumsy. Fans of iyashikei will enjoy. Features great voice actors. Both OPs and ED1 are extremely catchy!
An adorable and wholesome anime around four, later five, guys who are as likable as they are clumsy. Fans of iyashikei will enjoy. Features great voice actors. Both OPs and ED1 are extremely catchy!
Housekishou Richard-shi no Nazo Kantei
The Case Files of Jeweler Richard
TV, 2020,
12 eps
Me:-
Author:7
'Bait'.
A for the most part episodic anime around a young man working part-time for a mysterious, irresistibly charismatic gemstone appraiser. Not without its flaws, but still an entertaining watch. Explores a few interesting ideas through its female side characters, adding some unexpected depth. Features some top-tier voice actors.
A for the most part episodic anime around a young man working part-time for a mysterious, irresistibly charismatic gemstone appraiser. Not without its flaws, but still an entertaining watch. Explores a few interesting ideas through its female side characters, adding some unexpected depth. Features some top-tier voice actors.
Free!
Free! - Iwatobi Swim Club
TV, 2013,
12 eps
Me:-
Author:7
'Bait'.
Cute boys doing sporty things. I love their strong emotions and all the drama resulting from them. Peaks in S2, imo, but still ends satisfyingly enough. Features some top-tier voice actors and some really good music.
Cute boys doing sporty things. I love their strong emotions and all the drama resulting from them. Peaks in S2, imo, but still ends satisfyingly enough. Features some top-tier voice actors and some really good music.
Jie Yao
Antidote
ONA, 2020,
13 eps
Me:-
Author:7
'Bait'. MAL labels it as 'Boys Love', but there are no explicit expressions of romantic feelings between the MCs throughout the series (none that go beyond hugging and touching the other's cheek anyway).
Starts off slow, but gets exponentially better as the MCs grow closer and help each other sort their lives out. Since it explores one of the character's deep trauma, the anime can get very dark, but it ends on a positive and heartwarming note.
Starts off slow, but gets exponentially better as the MCs grow closer and help each other sort their lives out. Since it explores one of the character's deep trauma, the anime can get very dark, but it ends on a positive and heartwarming note.
TV, 2018,
17 eps
Me:-
Author:8
'Bait', but to a lesser extent than the previous titles, as the "baiting" scenes are few and far between. In exchange, there is a scene in which one guy's romantic feelings for another are confirmed, but it's rather unlikely this will ever be developed any further.
This was only the second idol anime I ever watched and I feel like I've been spoiled for life. An endearing cast, great voices, captivating drama, high (emotional) stakes, and many small details that make it infinitely rewatchable. Make sure to watch "IDOLiSH7 Vibrato" between S1 and S2. MAL lists it as a side story even though it ties up plot threads from S1 and contains events that are referenced in following seasons, so skipping it would diminish your viewing experience.
This was only the second idol anime I ever watched and I feel like I've been spoiled for life. An endearing cast, great voices, captivating drama, high (emotional) stakes, and many small details that make it infinitely rewatchable. Make sure to watch "IDOLiSH7 Vibrato" between S1 and S2. MAL lists it as a side story even though it ties up plot threads from S1 and contains events that are referenced in following seasons, so skipping it would diminish your viewing experience.
