Shounen anime is targeted towards teenage boys aged 12-18 years old. These anime are usually light-hearted with a lot of messages and exciting fight scenes that not only attract this demographic but also adults. As shounen is a popular genre and anime of this type is often famous, it’s no surprise that people of all ages are interested in them, including children. However, not all shounen anime is suitable for kids, despite how popular they are. Some scenes are not appropriate for children, and the storylines can be complex. While anime like Haikyuu!! or Bakuman can be watched by children, others are not suitable for them. What are they? Read on for the top 7 shounen anime not suitable for kids:
7. The Promised Neverland
The Promised Neverland features three children as the main characters. However, that does not mean that this shounen anime is suitable for them. The show has a dark tone with terrifying twists that may frighten children. It often showcases scenes that are not suitable for children. The children’s attempts to escape from the orphanage usually end in horrifying ways. The Promised Neverland is a dark fantasy shounen anime that should be watched by those who have a mature understanding.
6. Death Note
Death Note is one of the most popular shounen anime to this day. As a shounen, this anime has a dark tone as it deals with dangerous human ambitions that cannot be understood at surface level. Moreover, there is a lot of violence in it. Although it is classified as shounen, this anime is actually aimed at those who are mentally stable and mature. It is also brutal and cruel, and the essence of the story can only be understood by adults. Children may find it difficult to understand the profound meaning of the story.
5. Fairy Tail
Fairy Tail is a unique case when it comes to parents deciding which anime their children can watch. On one hand, Fairy Tail looks the same as Naruto and My Hero Academia, both of which are suitable for kids. However, Fairy Tail is also known for its excessive fan service that often involves total nudity. Older viewers may not mind it, but parents may be concerned about how often male and female characters in the show wear only underwear or are completely naked. Additionally, the camera often zooms in on characters’ cleavage or buttocks.
4. Platinum End
The creator of Death Note also developed other hits like Bakuman and Platinum End. However, Platinum End is a big misstep. The show has a good concept, but the anime feels messy, strange, and sloppy in execution, including handling sensitive topics too lightly or even treating them as a joke. The controversial material of Platinum End, combined with heavy topics such as divinity and the meaning of life, will bore children and even some adults. Hardcore fans of Death Note or anime battle royale may like Platinum End, but most anime fans, especially children, prefer not to watch this show.
3. Attack on Titan
Attack on Titan is a wildly popular shounen anime that features giant humanoid creatures known as Titans who prey on humans. Although the show has a thrilling storyline, it can be quite violent, with blood and gore. The Titans eat humans, and there are scenes of death and injury. The violence is not suitable for children, and parents should be cautious when allowing their kids to watch this anime.
2. Haikyuu!!
Haikyuu!! is a shounen anime that can be watched by children. It’s a heartwarming story about a high school volleyball team trying to win the championship. There’s no violence, no nudity, and no disturbing scenes. The show is also very uplifting and motivational, making it great for kids. However, parents should still be cautious as the show may still feature some scenes that are not suitable for children.
1. Shokugeki no Soma
Shokugeki no Soma, or Food Wars!, may seem innocent at a glance. The anime tells an inspiring story of a teenager who wants to become a famous chef and enters a prestigious culinary high school. However, despite its seemingly innocent premise, the anime is not that innocent. It features large-scale nudity with adult themes, which could make it uncomfortable to watch with others, especially with children. Shokugeki no Soma is better watched alone.
In conclusion, not all shounen anime is suitable for children, and parents should be cautious when allowing their kids to watch these shows. Some shounen anime has inappropriate content, dark fantasy themes, and excessive fan service that may not be acceptable for children. Parents should always check the contents of the anime before allowing their children to watch them.
