Sports anime is popular because it combines excitement, stories, and characters. In recent years, sports anime has gained momentum in not only Japan, but worldwide with anime such as Haikyu!! and Yuri!!! on Ice gaining fans worldwide. Among them, Number24 is a popular sports anime with a fresh take on presenting the American football, otherwise known as Rugby in the animated world with thrilling gameplays. This article will compare Number24 to other popular sports anime and provide you with everything you need to know about it.
The rise of sports anime
Sports anime has evolved from focusing on the excitement of athletic competition to the emotional aspects of the sport. From classics like Slam Dunk and Captain Tsubasa to modern anime like Haikyuu!! and Kuroko’s Basketball, sports anime focus on the relationships between the characters, the challenges they face, and the importance of never giving up on their dreams. Number24 is a new sports anime that continues this trend, combining the excitement of athletic competition with the emotional depth of a character-driven drama.
What is Number24 about?
Natsusa Yuzuki’s journey
At its core, Number24 revolves around Natsusa Yuzuki, a left-winger with a passion for rugby since childhood. Enrolling in Doushisha University, he quickly rises as a star player in the Kansai University League. However, a tragic motorbike accident leaves him with a cervical herniated disk, ending his rugby-playing days.
- Refusing to abandon his love for the sport, Natsusa becomes the university team manager, aiming to lead his team to victory.
- Despite his physical limitations, he forges bonds with his teammates, discovering their talent and dedication.
Through this journey, Natsusa finds healing and growth, both physically and emotionally.
Character-driven narrative
so i started watching number 24 (which is a sports anime btw) AND EVERYTHING SEEMED NORMAL UNTIL I SAW THSI😟😟😟 THEY WERE TOTALLY BAITING BRO THEY KNEW WHAT THEY WERE DOING THERES NO WAY CUZ THERE WAS THE HEAVY BREATHING AND EVERYTHING HELP pic.twitter.com/PmjPdzfDQd
— kyoko/kyo !? #1 dazai lover (@softidazaii) July 29, 2023
What truly sets Number24 apart is its character-driven narrative. While sports anime often focus on the excitement of the games, this series prioritizes the relationships and growth of its characters. Viewers become emotionally invested in Natsusa and his teammates’ journeys, making the victories and challenges even more impactful.
Sports and rugby in Number24
Number24 puts rugby at the forefront, accurately depicting the sport’s intricacies. The anime showcases rugby matches with realistic strategies, moves, and teamwork, making it a treat for sports enthusiasts. It emphasizes the value of teamwork and sportsmanship, teaching valuable lessons beyond the game.
How does Number24 fare against other sports anime?
While Kuroko’s Basketball, Haikyuu!!, and Free! are exceptional sports anime in their own right, Number24 sets itself apart with its setting of American football and emphasis on character development. While Haikyuu and Kuroko’s Basketball have much higher IMDb rating than Number24, With an IMDb rating of only 6.7/10, it has garnered its own loyal fanbase, appreciating its fresh take on sports anime conventions.
Number24 v/s other sports anime.
| Anime | Sport | Focus | Strengths | Weaknesses |
| Haikyuu!! | Volleyball | Teamwork | Exciting matches, relatable characters, great animation | Can be too focused on the technical aspects of volleyball |
| Kuroko’s Basketball | Basketball | Individual skill | Amazing animation, creative plays, memorable characters | Can be too over-the-top at times |
| Free! | Swimming | Individual skill | Beautiful animation, great character development, catchy music | Can be too slow-paced at times |
| Number24 | Rugby | Teamwork, friendship | Exciting matches, relatable characters, great animation | Can be slow to start |
Conclusion
Number 24 is a great sports anime with a beautiful blend of sports and drama. It may not suit to everyone’s taste but it skillfully portrays the problems faced by a sports enthusiast. It has captured the hearts of viewers worldwide with its thought-provoking themes and well-developed characters. It is a must-watch for anime enthusiasts.