JC Staff has carved out a notable place in the anime industry since its establishment in 1986. While it may not always receive the same level of recognition as some other renowned studios like Production IG, Madhouse, or Studio Ghibli, JC Staff has made a significant impact with its diverse range of productions spanning various genres.
JC Staff has consistently delivered quality content across different formats, from influential series to compelling movies, OVAs, and animated sequences for games.
Here are some standout anime from Studio JC Staff, arranged chronologically to showcase the studio’s evolution over time:
1. Revolutionary Girl Utena
- Genres: Drama, Comedy, Fantasy, Mystery, Psychological, Romance
Revolutionary Girl Utena is one of the most beloved JC Staff anime and most influential.
An essential entry in the Mahou Shoujo or Magical Girl genre, Utena plays around with gender tropes and conventions.
Follows Tenjou Utena as he attempts to be with the enigmatic Anthy Himemiya. Naturally, it involves many battles full of symbolism.
Revolutionary Girl Utena has aged well in terms of animation and story content. The film Revolutionary Girl Utena: The Adolescence of Utena is still worth watching.
2. Toradora!
- Genres: Comedy, Drama, Romance, Slice of Life
You might find Toradora! It is challenging to fully enjoy nowadays since its themes and ideas are shared in slice-of-life and romance anime.
But, Toradora! Stands out for its iconic tsundere character and its blend of humor and profound moments. The anime revolves around Ryuuji Takasu and Taiga Aisaka, two opposite characters. Taiga’s character growth throughout the series is incredibly well-done.
3. Honey and Clover
- Genres: Comedy, Drama, Romance, Slice of Life
“Honey and Clover” is a story that gets into the hearts of its characters. The five main characters deal with a big thing in life: change.
It’s not your typical coming-of-age anime where everyone’s just feeling a bit sad. This one is full of drama that’s happening right now.
“Honey and Clover” is unique. JC Staff makes it, and it’s not like other shows. It can make you cry, laugh, and even get mad, but all those emotions feel real and deserved.
4. Nodame Cantabile
- Genres: Comedy, Drama, Music, Romance, Slice of Life
“Nodame Cantabile” shines among romantic anime for several key reasons.
Firstly, it weaves music into the storyline to deepen the main couple’s bond and explore their relationship further. It’s a must-watch for music lovers.
Secondly, the dynamic between the two main characters, Megumi Noda and Shinichi Chiaki, feels genuine rather than forced.
Especially in the first season, Chiaki confronts real issues with Megumi’s behavior, which leads to personal growth for both of them. Megumi’s influence on Chiaki is significant in the same way.
5. Kaichou wo Maid-Sama!
- Genres: Comedy, Drama, Romance
“Kaicho wa Maid-sama,” created by Hiro Fujiwara, follows the tale of Takumi Usui, the school’s heartthrob, who discovers that Misaki Ayuzawa, the strict student council president, works at a maid café. Takumi takes advantage of this to get closer to Misaki.
This romantic story leans heavily on comedy, offering plenty of laughs. It’s a romance that stays fresh and entertaining, likely why it continues to receive high ratings and remains a top recommendation for romance enthusiasts.
6. Little Busters
- Genres: Comedy, Drama, Slice of Life, Supernatural
The first season of “Little Busters!” is a great slice-of-life anime with plenty of comedy, but it can sometimes feel a bit forgettable and disjointed.
However, the sequel, “Chorus,” is a whole different ballgame. It takes much more significant risks regarding how it presents the plot and moves the story forward.
While “Chorus” still has its funny moments, it’s the intriguing ideas and themes that shine, giving depth to the lovable characters. In particular, the latter half of the season has been powerful.
7. A Certain Scientific Railgun
- Genres: Action, Fantasy, Sci-Fi
While the Sisters Arc in “A Certain Scientific Railgun S” gets deeper into the storyline, many fans consider “A Certain Scientific Railgun T” the standout season in the series.
Focusing on the Daihasei Festival, this season brings Mikoto Misaka together with Misaki Shokuhou despite their animosity towards each other.
“A Certain Scientific Railgun T” boasts fantastic animation, a well-paced plot, and numerous thrilling moments. As a badass female protagonist, Mikoto stands out, supported by a solid cast of characters.
8. Bakuman
- Genres: Comedy, Drama, Romance, Slice of Life
JC Staff’s standout accomplishment is arguable “Bakuman,” a show that offers a realistic glimpse into the lives of manga authors.
In its third and final season, “Bakuman” wraps up the storylines for all its characters while staying true to its slice-of-life vibe. The endearing characters, witty humor, and sharp dialogue are just a few reasons to praise this anime.
While “Bakuman” may not be as widely known as some of JC Staff’s other works, it’s certainly their finest creation.
9. The Disastrous Life of Saiki K.
- Genres: Comedy, Slice of Life, Supernatural
“The Disastrous Life of Saiki K.” is a top contender for the title of funniest comedy anime ever. It follows the story of Kusuo, an incredibly powerful psychic, who just wants to blend in and avoid attention. However, his efforts are constantly thwarted by the presence of some rather eccentric individuals.
Structured into sketches, the show features a fantastic lineup of supporting characters, each bringing their own quirks to the table.
Kusuo’s deadpan humor perfectly contrasts with Shun Kaidaou’s grandiose fantasies, Riki Nendou’s confident foolishness, and Kokomi Teruhashi’s two-faced charm.
10. KONOSUBA -God’s blessing on this wonderful world!- Legend of Crimson
- Genres: Action, Adventure, Comedy
The popular isekai anime “Konosuba” was initially produced by Studio DEEN for its first season, but later, JC Staff took over for the subsequent seasons.
The film sequel, “KONOSUBA -God’s blessing on this wonderful world!-” adds a cinematic flair to this quirky anime. A parody of isekai anime, “Konosuba” flips the usual tropes of the genre, particularly with its protagonist, Kazuma Satou.
“KONOSUBA” delivers plenty of laughs, but there’s genuine heart beneath the craziness. The bond between Megumin and Kazuma is particularly notable in this film.
11. Food Wars!: Shokugeki no Soma
- Genres: Comedy, Ecchi
“Food Wars! Shokugeki no Soma” elevates cooking and dining to an art form, making them seem like the most beautiful experiences imaginable.
The story follows Soma Yukihira, who learned to cook from his father at their family restaurant. He enters Tootsuki Culinary Academy, a prestigious school known for its intense culinary battles and competition.
As an ecchi anime, “Food Wars!” is hilariously funny, delightfully quirky, and always engaging. But beyond its surface, it offers compelling stories and characters that keep us hooked until the very end.
12. DanMachi: Is It Wrong to Try to Pick Up Girls in a Dungeon
- Genres: Action, Adventure, Comedy, Fantasy, Romance
“DanMachi: Is It Wrong to Try to Pick Up Girls in a Dungeon?” may not be an isekai anime, but it transports viewers into a fantasy world with role-playing game elements.
Adapted from light novels, “DanMachi” includes some harem aspects, and the main character, Bell, is voiced by Yoshitsugu Matsuoka, known as the Harem King in the voice acting world.
Bell’s main ambition isn’t to save the world but to become a skilled warrior worthy of Ais Wallenstein’s affection. While the series offers plenty of thrilling action scenes, it also strikes a balance with romantic comedy elements.
With memorable characters boasting incredible magical abilities and some fanservice thrown in, “DanMachi” leaves a lasting impression on its audience.
