In recent days, a heated debate has emerged on various Japanese forums over the perception that anime fandom standards have dropped considerably over the years. Members of these forums argue that more and more anime are now being categorized as otaku “masterpieces,” which has led to a loss of relevance and importance of this designation.

The discussion began when several users expressed their frustration at seeing anime they believe lacks depth or narrative quality being elevated to masterpiece status. Other participants in the debate pointed out that this inflation in the use of the term “masterpiece” has led to a devaluation of the recognition given to truly exceptional series.

Critics of this trend also mentioned that the proliferation of streaming platforms and the accessibility of a large amount of content contributed to this situation. With more anime available than ever before, fans have the opportunity to watch and follow a wide variety of series, which some say has led to the normalization of mediocrity.

However, not everyone agrees with this view. Some proponents argue that the increase in the number of anime considered "masterpieces" reflects a diversification of tastes and a broader appreciation of the medium. This discussion highlights how the evolution of the anime industry and changing fan perceptions affect how content is categorized and valued.

• «Suzumiya Haruhi, Mahou Shouo Madoka Magica, and Bocchi the Rock!. Actually, I think they also include Kimetsu no Yaiba and Your Name as well.».
• «For people who spend time on the Internet, I think anything that becomes popular is classified as a "masterpiece."».
• «There's no way around it, it's all a matter of the otaku perspective.».
• «Neon Genesis Evangelion: A Masterpiece? Standards Have Fallen Too Low».
• «It hurts me that Suzumiya Haruhi is considered in this category, the second season was a fiasco».
• «I found that Bocchi the Rock! inspired more guitars to be purchased on the market, isn't that enough?».
• «Thinking that normal people also watch anime makes them feel like normal people too. It's like an old man desperately claiming that his hobby is popular among young people.».
• «Why do otakus overvalue Studio Ghibli or Shonen Jump projects so much?».
• «Space Battleship Yamato, Mobile Suit Gundam, Neon Genesis Evangelion and the Studio Ghibli films, I think are the only ones that fall into the category».
• «What criteria would you use to define a masterpiece? Would it be something that becomes extremely popular, or something good that few know about?».
• «I think a masterpiece is any anime that even older people know. That's why Kimetsu no Yaiba definitely falls into that category.».
• «I don't think it's valid to call it a masterpiece if only otakus evaluate it, or if we consider only that it was popular or did well. There needs to be a massive boom, a level of recognition that reaches the morning news and incalculable merchandise sales.».
• «It just occurred to me, but wouldn't those works that increased the number of female otaku be masterpieces? I certainly feel grateful for those series.».
• «There's been a lot of talk about it, but I don't consider Bocchi o Rock! an anime masterpiece.».

Source: Yaraon!