A refreshingly mature high school romcom with some solid substance and intricate characters.
Horimiya
Fruits Basket (2001)
While definitely an "Early 2000's shojo anime" there is a lot here that really endures (and endears) that makes it worthwhile as more than just an important contextual piece, but an excellent exploration of growth through trauma.
Komi Can’t Communicate (Season 1)
Cute and fun, but nothing too groundbreaking. Certainly has some great moments.
We Never Learn! (Bokuben)
Very much a cliché anime Harem RomCom, but with some good moments. A decent void filler, but nothing special.
Don’t Toy With Me, Miss Nagatoro! (Ijiranaide, Nagatoro-san!)
The fun “tease you because I’m too shy to admit I have a crush on you” dynamic from Takagi-san, but in High school and a bit more sadistic and frisky.
Citrus
A snack show good for scratching a Yuri itch. Despite a ridiculous hentai-flavored premise, there is little skin-service but excellent spice. Refreshingly frank and honest about sexuality for an anime.
Yuki Yuna is a Hero: Hero Chapter
This sequel is more of the same Yuki Yuna fare, making it a somewhat mediocre follow up to what feels like a one-hit wonder.
Yuki Yuna is a Hero: Washio Sumi Chapter
A decent prequel, has some cries, but they feel a bit shallow/forced. There isn't as much of an emotional dynamic/contrast, but it still has merit, especially the music.
Tsuredure Children
A short and sweet vignette of cute and funny relationship-centered scenes.
Yuki Yuna is a Hero
While unapologetically a Madoka-inspired Magical Girl show, it does take its own approach and has a more gradual pace. A slightly warm Cherry Pepsi to Madoka's crisp, icy Vanilla Coke.
At a Glance Anime 