Rediscovering “Noragami” – The Early 2010s Anime Hit You Likely Missed

In the ever-evolving landscape of anime, certain series manage to capture lightning in a bottle, resonating with audiences on a profound level, only to fade into obscurity as new titles take the spotlight. Such is the case with “Noragami,” a 2014 supernatural action-comedy that garnered significant popularity during its initial run, yet seems to have slipped through the cracks of mainstream recognition in recent years.

Plot

From its very premise, “Noragami” had an aura of delightfully chaotic early 2010s energy. The story follows Yato, a minor deity who, after being forced to take lives as a god of calamity, seeks redemption by offering his services as a divinity for hire. His path soon crosses with Hiyori, a quirky young girl who finds herself trapped in a limbo between life and death after a near-fatal accident involving Yato.

Why Noragami is great!

It is a wild ride that masterfully blends elements of action, comedy, and emotional depth. It is anchored by a cast of characters that defy conventional anime tropes. Yato, far from the wise, all-knowing god one might expect, is brash, impulsive, and endearingly flawed. His bravado often clashes with his genuine desire to help those in need.

The dynamic between Yato and Hiyori in Noragami is a constant source of hilarity and heartwarming moments. Hiyori’s spirited personality, coupled with her penchant for embracing traditionally masculine interests like burping and indulging in the Joe Rogan podcast, creates a refreshingly unique dynamic.

Beneath the surface, however, “Noragami” grapples with deeper themes of existentialism, mortality, and the human condition. The show doesn’t shy away from exploring the darker aspects of its characters’ psyches, particularly Yato’s struggle to come to terms with his violent past and find a purpose beyond mere destruction.

The action sequences in “Noragami” are equally noteworthy, with fluid animation and creative fight choreography that showcases the abilities of the various gods. From the terrifying designs of the villainous “Phantoms” to the power system governing the interactions between deities and their “Regalia” weapons, “Noragami” excels in building a fully realized universe. 

Perhaps the most remarkable aspect of “Noragami” is its ability to maintain a consistent pace and sense of forward momentum throughout its run. Unlike many anime that can become bogged down by excessive exposition or filler episodes, each installment of “Noragami” feels purposeful, steadily advancing the overarching narrative while allowing for compelling character development and world-building.

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Conclusion

In an era where anime fans are constantly bombarded with new releases vying for their attention, it’s easy for gems like “Noragami” to slip through the cracks. However, for those seeking a wildly entertaining, emotionally resonant, and uniquely quirky anime experience that encapsulates the best of the early 2010s, revisiting or discovering “Noragami” is an absolute must.

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