My Dress Up Darling sets itself apart from other anime shows by creating realistic main characters alongside an in-depth exploration of cosplay culture, along with an easy and enjoyable storyline. And while anime often stereotypically portrays female figures, Marin Kitagawa breaks that mold with her outgoing personality and genuine interests that aren’t specifically tied to the story’s love interest, Gojo. She is comfortable being a “gyaru” out there and does not hesitate to call out men who tease her for being otaku. On the other hand, Gojo is a normal person. Although he can be a bit pushy, he is genuinely interested in developing his skills as a craftsman. The show uses his focus and passion for doll making to a comedic effect but doesn’t make fun of it. And the attraction between Marin and Gojo is also depicted in such a way that it’s easy to see them as a couple, which is a bit unique in a genre where compatibility is usually not the focus. Overall, My Dress Up Darling is a fresh take on romance that is worth watching.

The spring anime season features a fun and enjoyable story of a secret relationship between the two protagonists of the show, Fudo and Desumi. Fudo is the leader of a group of heroes, while Desumi works with a notorious gang of villains bent on world domination. As natural enemies, the two must keep their love a secret, throwing them both into some of the most violent situations as they try to cover up their true feelings. Throughout the show, Fudo and Desumi fight and do many firsts in their relationship. They’re both likable, and the show does a good job of giving both characters opportunities to stumble through a situation as well as save the other. The animation also delivers all the weird energy that leans into every joke and crazy fight in a way that knows perfectly well what it is and what it’s trying to accomplish.

Young love is a tale as old as time, and we can’t help but swoon over it. And when it comes down to it, there’s no denying that Izumi and Shikimori take that special cake from “Shikimori Not Just a Cutie”. From the very first episode, these two lovebirds are going strong and at first, even seem like your average high school couple. But as we go along, there’s one big difference: Shikimori is more or less a cool-girl superhero who keeps her boyfriend out of all kinds of trouble. That said, there’s plenty of heart to be found between these two. However, Izumi can be more passive in the relationship, which does not prevent him from supporting his girlfriend in all her evil endeavors. And when he takes charge, it is nothing short of heartwarming. Overall, Izumi and Shikimori are the epitome of what a great anime couple should be: quirky, protective, and totally adorable.

Spy X Family’s Lloyd and Your Forger have got it all – looks, brains and a chemistry that could put any real couple to shame. But here’s the catch: They’re not actually a couple, at least not in the traditional sense. Lloyd is actually a spy, while Yore is an assassin, and in order for Lloyd to carry out Operation Strix, they must pose as a married couple. And despite the simulated nature of their relationship, Loyd and Yours have an authenticity that’s hard to find. They support each other through the ups and downs of a budding relationship and also manage to find time for some tender moments amid all the chaos. It may technically be fake, but the way they both make sure Anya’s happiness comes first and how they care for each other, it’s hard not to root for them to become an official couple.

Vanitas and Jean have a love-hate relationship that is as complicated as it is entertaining. They epitomize the classic “enemy-to-lover” trope, with Jean attempting to murder Vanitas when they first meet. But as the series progresses, their tension-filled interactions give way to a deeper and more vulnerable relationship. As the story unfolds, we see that their relationship is much more than just a superficial flirtation. They both bring something unique to the table and it starts to become clear that it’s not just about two people falling in love; It is about two people who help each other overcome their past hurts. It’s no wonder why they have become our favorite anime couple of 2022.