So, Why You Should Watch Erased
Anime fans often discuss iconic shows like Attack on Titan, Naruto, and Demon Slayer, but some masterpieces fly under the radar despite their brilliance. One such underrated anime is Erased (Boku dake ga Inai Machi), a gripping psychological thriller that blends mystery, time travel, and emotional depth.
If you’re looking for a hidden gem that delivers a compelling story, unforgettable characters, and a unique premise, Erased is a must-watch. In this review, we’ll explore why this anime deserves more recognition and why you should add it to your watchlist today.
What is Erased About?
Erased is a 2016 anime adaptation of Kei Sanbe’s manga, produced by A-1 Pictures. The story follows Satoru Fujinuma, a struggling manga artist who possesses a mysterious ability called “Revival.” This power allows him to travel back in time a few minutes before a tragic event, giving him a chance to prevent it.
However, when his mother is murdered, Satoru is unexpectedly sent back 18 years into the past—to his childhood in 1988. He realizes that her death is linked to a series of child kidnappings that happened during his school years. Now, as a 10-year-old with his adult mind intact, he must uncover the truth, save his childhood friends, and prevent the tragedies that shaped his future.
Why Erased is an Underrated Masterpiece
Despite its powerful story and engaging premise, Erased is often overshadowed by mainstream thrillers like Steins;Gate or Death Note. Here’s why it deserves more attention:
1. A Unique Take on Time Travel
Time travel in anime is usually complex (Steins;Gate) or action-packed (Re:Zero), but Erased takes a more emotional and suspenseful approach. Instead of altering massive events, Satoru’s Revival power focuses on personal and intimate moments, making the story more grounded and relatable.
His journey is not about saving the world but about protecting the people he cares about. This human element sets Erased apart from other time-travel anime, making it a compelling watch for fans of both sci-fi and drama.
2. A Thrilling Murder Mystery
The central mystery of Erased—the identity of the serial kidnapper—keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. Each episode unveils new clues and twists, keeping the tension high. The show masterfully blends suspense and character development, making every revelation impactful.
Even if you guess the culprit early on, the psychological depth and emotional stakes ensure that the journey remains gripping until the very end.
3. Deep and Emotional Character Development
One of Erased’s biggest strengths is its well-developed characters, particularly Satoru and Kayo Hinazuki, the main victim of the child kidnappings.
Satoru Fujinuma: As a protagonist, Satoru is relatable and easy to root for. His growth from a passive adult to a determined hero willing to risk everything for his friends makes his character arc satisfying and inspiring.
Kayo Hinazuki: Kayo’s story is heartbreaking yet beautifully written. As a victim of abuse and neglect, she represents the helplessness many children face. Satoru’s attempts to save her not only drive the plot but also create some of the anime’s most touching moments.
The friendships and relationships in Erased feel authentic, adding emotional weight to the story. Every character has depth, making their struggles and triumphs resonate with the audience.
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4. Stunning Animation and Direction
A-1 Pictures delivers breathtaking visuals that enhance the anime’s atmosphere. From the cold, snow-covered streets of 1988 to the warm, nostalgic tones of childhood, every scene is beautifully crafted. The animation quality remains consistent, making the show visually appealing from start to finish.
The direction by Tomohiko Itō (Sword Art Online) ensures that every moment carries emotional and narrative weight. The pacing keeps the story engaging without unnecessary filler, making it a perfect binge-watch.
5. A Powerful Soundtrack
Music plays a crucial role in Erased, heightening its emotional and suspenseful moments. The opening theme, “Re:Re” by Asian Kung-Fu Generation, is both nostalgic and energetic, perfectly setting the tone for the anime. The background score enhances the tension, sadness, and hope that drive the story forward.
Criticism and Controversy
While Erased is a fantastic anime, it does have its flaws. Some fans believe the anime’s ending is rushed compared to the manga. The final confrontation feels somewhat simplified, leaving certain character motivations less explored than they were in the source material.
Despite this, the emotional impact remains strong, and the anime delivers a satisfying conclusion that ties up most loose ends. If you’re curious, the manga provides a more detailed ending that’s worth checking out.
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Who Should Watch Erased?
Erased is perfect for fans of:
Psychological thrillers (Death Note, Monster)
Time-travel anime (Steins;Gate, Re:Zero)
Emotional dramas (Your Lie in April, Anohana)
Mystery and suspense series (Paranoia Agent, Higurashi)
If you enjoy stories that blend suspense, emotion, and character-driven narratives, Erased will be an unforgettable experience.
Final Verdict: A Must-Watch Underrated Anime
Despite being overshadowed by bigger names, Erased remains one of the most emotionally powerful and well-crafted anime of the 2010s. Its unique take on time travel, gripping mystery, and heartfelt character moments make it a hidden gem that deserves more recognition.
If you haven’t watched Erased yet, now is the perfect time to experience this underrated masterpiece.
Have you watched Erased? What did you think of its ending? Share your thoughts in the comments below! If you love discovering underrated anime gems, don’t forget to explore more recommendations on our site.
