7 Anime Where The Protagonist Falls For Their Best Friend
Unrequited love and the blurred lines of friendship are a staple in many anime series. The "friends to lovers" trope is a popular one, and it's easy to see why. The emotional complexity and relatability of these storylines make for compelling viewing. In this article, we'll explore seven anime where the protagonist falls for their best friend, highlighting the complexities and nuances of these relationships.
1. Toradora!
Toradora! is a classic example of the "friends to lovers" trope. The series follows Ryuuji Takasu and Taiga Aisaka, two high school students who become embroiled in a complicated web of relationships. Ryuuji develops feelings for Taiga, but she's already set her sights on his best friend, Yusaku Kitamura. As the series progresses, Ryuuji's unrequited love for Taiga becomes a central theme, exploring the complexities of friendship and romance.
2. The Pet Girl of Sakurasou
The Pet Girl of Sakurasou is a heartwarming anime that explores the developing feelings between Sorata Kanda and Mashiro Shiina. Sorata is forced to move into the Sakurasou dormitory, where he meets Mashiro, a talented but eccentric girl. As they spend more time together, Sorata finds himself falling for Mashiro, but their relationship is complicated by Mashiro's naivety and Sorata's own feelings of inadequacy.
3. Clannad
Clannad is a highly acclaimed anime that explores the complexities of human relationships. The series follows Tomoya Okazaki, a high school student who becomes involved with Nagisa Furukawa, a girl who's determined to revive the school's drama club. As Tomoya spends more time with Nagisa, he develops feelings for her, but their relationship is complicated by Nagisa's health issues and Tomoya's own emotional baggage.
4. Kimi ni Todoke (From Me to You)
Kimi ni Todoke is a sweet and gentle anime that explores the developing feelings between Sawako Kuronuma and Shouta Kazehaya. Sawako is a shy and introverted girl who's often misunderstood by her classmates, while Kazehaya is a popular and outgoing boy who becomes her friend. As they spend more time together, Sawako develops feelings for Kazehaya, but she struggles to express her emotions.
5. Blue Spring Ride
Blue Spring Ride is a poignant anime that explores the complexities of human relationships. The series follows Futaba Yoshioka, a high school student who's struggling to come to terms with her past. She meets Kou Mabuchi, a quiet and introspective boy who's also struggling with his own demons. As they spend more time together, Futaba develops feelings for Kou, but their relationship is complicated by their shared emotional baggage.
6. My Teen Romantic Comedy SNAFU
My Teen Romantic Comedy SNAFU is a witty and insightful anime that explores the complexities of high school relationships. The series follows Hachiman Hikigaya, a cynical and introverted boy who's forced to join the school's service club. He meets Yukino Yukinoshita, a beautiful and intelligent girl who's also a member of the club. As they spend more time together, Hachiman develops feelings for Yukino, but their relationship is complicated by their shared emotional baggage.
7. The Ancient Magus' Bride
The Ancient Magus' Bride is a fantasy anime that explores the developing feelings between Chise Hatori and Elias Ainsworth. Chise is a young girl who's sold at an auction to become the apprentice of Elias, a powerful magician. As they spend more time together, Chise develops feelings for Elias, but their relationship is complicated by Elias's mysterious past and Chise's own emotional vulnerability.
Gallery of Anime Romance
What is the most popular anime romance trope?
+The "friends to lovers" trope is a popular one in anime romance, where the protagonist develops feelings for their best friend or close acquaintance.
Which anime is known for its realistic portrayal of high school relationships?
+Toradora! is a highly acclaimed anime that explores the complexities of high school relationships, including the "friends to lovers" trope.
What makes a good anime romance?
+A good anime romance typically involves a nuanced and realistic portrayal of relationships, with well-developed characters and a compelling storyline.
We hope you've enjoyed this article on anime where the protagonist falls for their best friend. These series offer a nuanced and realistic portrayal of relationships, exploring the complexities of human emotions and connections. Whether you're a fan of romance, drama, or fantasy, there's something on this list for everyone.