Harem (HRM) is a popular sub-genre of anime in which the main male character is usually surrounded by several female characters who, at times, are potential love interests. This setup is often a recipe for predictable weird situations, which makes the sub-genre excellent for a mix of romance and comedy. The best harem anime series often have captivating storylines and an amazing balance of emotion, comedy, and reflections of reality.
Anime lovers often find themselves enchanted by harem series that blend humor, romance, and whimsical situations. With a multitude of female characters vying for the attention of one male lead, these shows create a unique dynamic that can lead to hilarious misunderstandings and heartfelt moments. As we delve into the world of harem anime, we explore some of the most beloved titles that fans have come to adore.
What are the top harem anime series, and what makes them fascinating? From comedic escapades to touching love stories, these series offer a delightful escape into a world brimming with colorful characters and engaging plots. Join us as we unveil the 20 best harem anime series that you won't want to miss!
The 20 Best Harem Anime Series
Here are some amazingly good harem anime television shows that fans of the genre will know.
20. My First Girlfriend is a Gal (2017)
This series’ plot is centred around Junichi Hashiba, a young boy who feels bad for not having a girlfriend until his classmates make him confess his love for one of his female schoolmates. Afterward, Junichi begins attracting the attention of other girls in school, including his childhood friend, Nene.
19. Outbreak Company (2013)
Outbreak Company tells the story of Shinichi Kanou, a boy with vast knowledge of video games, manga, and anime. One day he gets kidnapped and taken to the Eldant Empire, a mystical world full of dwarves, dragons, and elves.
18. Heaven’s Lost Property (2009)
Tomori Sakurai is a quiet boy who often dreams of meeting an angel one day. Then, one night as he watches some strange occurrences in the sky, a mysterious creature falls nearby. Tomoki discovers that the mysterious creature is a humanoid called Ikaros from an unknown world.
17. Infinite Stratos (2011)
This series takes place at a time when the planet’s balance of power has shifted radically following the development of weaponized exoskeletons known as Infinite Stratos. The Stratos can only be controlled by women, paving the way for female domination in the world.
16. Hentai Ouji to Warawanai Neko (2013)
Youto Yokodera is a shy boy who struggles with expressing his feelings. He makes a wish on a magical cat statue that gives him the personality traits of several girls in his school. As everyone involved tries to sort out the mess, they find themselves working together, creating comedic moments due to Youto’s shy nature.
15. When Supernatural Battles Became Commonplace (2014)
The story revolves around the literature club at Senkō High School, where five members possess different superpowers. The members’ abilities become part of their daily lives as they battle other youngsters wielding similar powers.
14. To Love-Ru (2008)
To Love-Ru tells the story of Yuuki, a high school boy who struggles to communicate his feelings to his love interest, Haruna Sairenji. One day, he finds an unclothed girl in his bathtub, later discovering she is a princess and heir to the throne on another planet.
13. Strike the Blood (2013)
Kojou Akatsuki becomes possessed by the spirit of a powerful vampire, placed under the watchful eye of a skilled warrior girl who has instructions to kill him if he becomes dangerous.
12. Yuuna and the Haunted Hot Springs (2018)
Kogarashi Fuyuzora is a psychic who accidentally gets possessed by an evil ghost. After renting a room at the haunted Hot Springs Inn, he embarks on a new life surrounded by beautiful girls.
11. Haganai: I Don’t Have Many Friends (2011)
This series follows Kodaka, a friendless schooler mistaken for a violent guy due to his intimidating expression and blond hair. His life takes a turn when he meets a girl talking to an imaginary person.
10. Nagasarete Airantou (2007)
The show tells the story of Ikuto Touhouin, a 14-year-old who runs away aboard a ship after a fight with his father. He wakes up on a strange island populated entirely by girls who have never seen a boy before.
9. Date A Live (2013)
Date a Live follows Shidou Itsuka, a young boy with powers allowing him to seal the powers of spirits with a kiss. In a world constantly under attack from alien spirits, Shidou must step up to defuse their powers.
8. Maken Ki Battling Venus (2011)
This comedy harem anime follows Takeru Ohyama, a somewhat perverted teenage boy who joins a new co-ed school. His dreams are dashed when he realizes every student possesses mystical items known as Makens that unleash magical abilities.
7. Mayo Chiki! (2011)
Mayo Chiki! tells the story of Kinjirou Sakamachi, a boy who develops a fear of women after surviving kicks and punches from his mother and sister, both professional wrestlers. His life changes when he meets a girl named Kanade who promises to help him.
6. Rosario to Banpaia (2008)
This anime series, loosely translated to Rosario and the Vampire, follows Aono as he enrolls in Youkai Academy, where monsters learn to coexist with humans. It’s dangerous for humans at the school, but Aono meets a girl named Moka who keeps him safe.
5. Kakegurui (2017)
Kakegurui is a thrilling harem anime set in Hyakkaou Private Academy, where students engage in high-stakes gambling to prepare for the real world. The new student, Yumeko, loves the thrill and threatens to expose the dark forces behind the games.
4. Trinity Seven (2014)
Trinity Seven follows Arata Kasuga as he navigates life with an all-female troupe. When a black sun rises, it triggers a phenomenon that leads him on a quest to find a missing cousin while evading a mysterious wizard.
3. Nisekoi (2014)
Nisekoi tells the story of Raku, an average high school student and heir to a Yakuza family. Years ago, he promised a girl he wouldn’t marry anyone else but her, and he has never lost the pendant she gave him.
2. High School DxD (2012)
This plot centers on Issei, a man who dies after an encounter with a fallen angel and is reincarnated by Rias Gremory, a female devil. The series is known for its captivating storylines and emotional depth.
1. The Familiar of Zero (2006)
The top harem anime is The Familiar of Zero, which follows Louise Françoise, a mage at Tristain Academy who struggles with casting spells. Despite her failures, she summons a familiar named Saito, leading to unexpected adventures.
Exploring Reverse Harem Anime
Typical harem anime features a male protagonist surrounded by multiple female characters who are often in love with him. In contrast, reverse harem anime flips the script, presenting a female protagonist surrounded by several male characters, each vying for her affection.
While reverse harem is not as prevalent as traditional harem, it offers a unique perspective and a different set of dynamics. Many viewers find these series equally engaging, showcasing the romantic entanglements and complexities of love from a female viewpoint.
Top Reverse Harem Anime Recommendations
According to the ReelRundown site, the top reverse harem anime is Ouran High School Host Club
