If you’re a fan of romance anime where the relationship starts early in the series, you’re in for a treat! While the classic romance formula, where characters fall in love, face obstacles, and have an epic confession at the finale, can be exciting, there’s something equally captivating about seeing the relationship unfold beyond the confession. These anime dive deep into how couples interact, face challenges, and grow together. If you love seeing the complexities of real relationships portrayed on screen, this list of romance anime is perfect for you!
1. My Love Story!! (Ore Monogatari!!)
- Genre: Romance, Comedy
- Episodes: 24
One of the best romance anime out there, My Love Story!! is a refreshing take on the genre. The series follows Takeo, a kind-hearted and gigantic guy, who falls for the sweet and gentle Rinko. The couple starts dating early in the series, and we get to see them navigate the ups and downs of a blossoming relationship. But it’s not just the romance that shines here—My Love Story!! excels in its portrayal of friendships, family dynamics, and even bromance. If you’re looking for a feel-good anime full of laughter and heartfelt moments, this one is a must-watch. And let’s not forget the incredible third-wheel character, Sunakawa, who provides some of the most hilarious and touching moments in the series.
Watch My Love Story!! on Crunchyroll
2. Wotakoi: Love is Hard for an Otaku
- Genre: Romance, Comedy
- Episodes: 11
A perfect pick for anime fans who can relate to the otaku lifestyle, Wotakoi centers on a couple of otaku who begin dating right from the first episode. Their relationship is adorably awkward and sweet as they balance their love for anime, gaming, and cosplay with their growing affection for one another. With no major drama, the series focuses on the everyday joys and challenges of being in a relationship while sharing hobbies with your partner. It’s light, fun, and filled with plenty of laughs—ideal for anyone looking for a low-stakes romance with endearing characters.
Watch Wotakoi: Love is Hard for an Otaku on Crunchyroll
3. We Were There (Bokura ga Ita)
- Genre: Romance, Drama, Slice of Life
- Episodes: 26
Prepare yourself for a heavy emotional ride with We Were There. This series takes a realistic approach to romance, showing how relationships are not always smooth sailing. The show follows Nanami and Yano as they deal with past heartaches, misunderstandings, and the complicated nature of growing up. The anime’s mature and emotionally intense narrative will likely leave you with a few tears, especially when the powerful OST hits during the most heart-wrenching scenes. If you’re in the mood for something that reflects the bittersweet reality of love, this is the anime to watch.
Be forewarned; this one totally wrecked me.
Watch We Were There on Crunchyroll
4. Nana
- Genre: Drama, Romance, Music
- Episodes: 47
No other romance anime portrays heartbreak quite like Nana. This series is known for its raw and unflinching portrayal of love, loss, and the hardships that come with it. The story follows two young women, both named Nana, as they navigate complicated love lives. One Nana fights to stay with the love of her life, while the other experiences a series of difficult relationships, including being cheated on. The anime tackles themes of infidelity, ambition, and personal growth, making it an incredibly emotional and thought-provoking watch.
This one will leave you in tears.
Watch Nana on Funimation
5. As the Moon, So Beautiful (Tsuki ga Kirei)
- Genre: Romance, Slice of Life
- Episodes: 12
A hidden gem in the romance genre, As the Moon, So Beautiful follows the sweet and realistic relationship between junior high students Kotarou and Akane. This anime is a reminder that love doesn’t always have to be grand and over-the-top to be meaningful. The series focuses on the quiet, tender moments of young love, while also delving into the challenges the couple faces, including miscommunication and growing pains. If you’re looking for an anime that portrays the pure and sometimes awkward nature of first love, this one is a must-watch.
Watch As the Moon, So Beautiful on Crunchyroll
Why You’ll Love These Anime
These series focus on what happens after the confession. The everyday moments, the growth, and the struggles. They explore not just the happiness that comes with love but also the challenges that make relationships real. Whether it’s comedy, drama, or slice-of-life, these anime offer diverse takes on romance that will keep you hooked. If you’re tired of the typical slow-burn romance stories and want to see couples grow together from the start, these shows are perfect for you.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re in the mood for something lighthearted or emotionally intense, these romance anime deliver a variety of stories that go beyond just the confession. From My Love Story!! to We Were There, these series provide a refreshing change of pace, focusing on the real dynamics of relationships. Watch them to experience how love evolves over time, with all its ups and downs.
Happy watching!