Top 10 Anime Where a Popular Girl Falls for Unpopular Guy – Must-Watch Romances on AnimeChronicles
When it comes to anime, nothing is more heartwarming than a love story where an unexpected romance blooms between a popular girl and an unpopular guy. These love stories are relatable, touching, and often deliver moments that stay with viewers long after the episode ends. If you’re a fan of unique love dynamics, AnimeChronicles has the perfect list for you! Let’s dive into 10 anime where a popular girl falls for unpopular guy, highlighting their studios, release dates, number of episodes, and genres.
1. Toradora!
- Studio: J.C. Staff
- Release Date: October 2, 2008
- Number of Episodes: 25
- Genre: Romantic Comedy, Slice of Life
Toradora! is a classic tale of opposites attracting. Ryuuji Takasu, a boy with an intimidating face but a heart of gold, meets Taiga Aisaka, a short yet fiery girl. Their contrasting personalities and the unexpected romance between them make it a must-watch for anyone who loves anime where a popular girl falls for unpopular guy.
2. Kimi ni Todoke
- Studio: Production I.G
- Release Date: October 7, 2009
- Number of Episodes: 38 (2 Seasons)
- Genre: Romance, Slice of Life, School
In Kimi ni Todoke, Sawako Kuronuma, often misunderstood and feared by her classmates, develops a romantic bond with the most popular boy in school, Kazehaya. Their wholesome relationship is a joy to watch, as Sawako’s unpopularity turns into admiration over time, making this series perfect for fans of anime where a popular girl falls for unpopular guy.
3. My Youth Romantic Comedy Is Wrong, As I Expected (Oregairu)
- Studio: Brain’s Base
- Release Date: April 5, 2013
- Number of Episodes: 38 (3 Seasons)
- Genre: Romantic Comedy, Drama, Slice of Life
This anime follows Hachiman Hikigaya, a cynical and unpopular high school student, who crosses paths with the popular yet distant Yukino Yukinoshita. As they work together in their school’s service club, their relationship evolves into something more than just a typical friendship, capturing the essence of anime where a popular girl falls for unpopular guy.
4. Masamune-kun no Revenge
- Studio: Silver Link
- Release Date: January 5, 2017
- Number of Episodes: 12
- Genre: Romantic Comedy, Drama, School
Masamune-kun no Revenge flips the narrative of a popular girl falling for an unpopular guy with a twist. Masamune Makabe, once an overweight boy, transforms himself into a handsome teen with one goal: to exact revenge on Aki Adagaki, the popular girl who once mocked him. However, what unfolds is a surprising tale of romance and reconciliation.
5. Lovely★Complex
- Studio: Toei Animation
- Release Date: April 7, 2007
- Number of Episodes: 24
- Genre: Romantic Comedy, Slice of Life
Risa Koizumi is taller than most girls, and Atsushi Ōtani is shorter than most boys. Despite these physical disparities, their unlikely romance is one of the most heartwarming examples of anime where a popular girl falls for unpopular guy, as they navigate their insecurities and social pressures to find love.
6. Horimiya
- Studio: CloverWorks
- Release Date: January 10, 2021
- Number of Episodes: 13
- Genre: Romantic Comedy, Slice of Life, School
In Horimiya, the seemingly popular Kyouko Hori and the introverted Izumi Miyamura form an unexpected bond. As they discover each other’s hidden sides, their relationship blossoms into something beautiful. This series is a great pick for those looking for anime where a popular girl falls for unpopular guy with a modern, heartfelt twist.
7. Bottom-Tier Character Tomozaki
- Studio: Project No.9
- Release Date: January 8, 2021
- Number of Episodes: 12
- Genre: Drama, Romance, School, Slice of Life
This anime introduces Tomozaki, a socially awkward boy who excels in video games but struggles in real life. When he meets the popular Hinami Aoi, she takes it upon herself to help him “level up” his social skills. Through their interactions, a romance gradually forms, cementing this as one of the best examples of anime where a popular girl falls for unpopular guy.
8. Kaguya-sama: Love is War
- Studio: A-1 Pictures
- Release Date: January 12, 2019
- Number of Episodes: 37 (3 Seasons)
- Genre: Romantic Comedy, Psychological, School
Though more of a psychological romance, Kaguya-sama revolves around two popular characters. However, Miyuki Shirogane, despite being the student council president, comes from a less privileged background and is less socially adept compared to the brilliant Kaguya Shinomiya. Their playful battle of wits and growing romantic tension keeps fans hooked.
9. Haganai: I Don’t Have Many Friends
- Studio: AIC Build
- Release Date: October 7, 2011
- Number of Episodes: 24 (2 Seasons)
- Genre: Romantic Comedy, Slice of Life, School
Kodaka Hasegawa, a misunderstood loner, unexpectedly finds himself part of a club with the popular yet socially awkward Sena Kashiwazaki. Their evolving relationship is full of humor and touching moments, making it a memorable anime where a popular girl falls for unpopular guy.
10. Gamers!
- Studio: Pine Jam
- Release Date: July 13, 2017
- Number of Episodes: 12
- Genre: Romantic Comedy, Slice of Life, School
A love triangle forms in Gamers! between Keita Amano, a gaming enthusiast with no social standing, and Karen Tendou, the school’s most popular girl. Their shared love of games brings them together, proving that even the most unexpected pairings can work in the world of anime.
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