However, if you are not sure what Harem is, read this article to get a detailed explanation of the term Harem and a list of fascinating Harem series!
1. What is Harem?
1.1. Definition of Harem
If you’re wondering what Harem is, it simply refers to a genre in Japanese Anime, Light Novels, and Manga. The content of Harem typically revolves around polygamous relationships, where one core character is central to the story, and two or more other characters, usually of the opposite gender, love and care for that core character. This genre is very popular among young people in Japan.
However, in reality, the term “Harem” does not originate from Japan but from Arabic. Its original meaning was somewhat sensitive. In the past, mentioning Harem would make people feel uncomfortable. However, today, it is more widely used with a completely opposite meaning.
1.2. Structure of a Harem Story
You can easily recognize the structure of a Harem story because they often place the male protagonist in a dominant role. While other male characters may appear, they never overshadow the main male character. Moreover, the plot typically focuses on the complicated and tangled romantic relationships between one guy and multiple girls.
Depending on the situation, the girls may pursue the male protagonist, compete for his affection, or secretly admire him. Usually, Harem stories feature at least two female characters who fall in love with the male protagonist, creating a love triangle where the male protagonist holds the most power in the relationship.
A notable example of a Harem Anime is “To Love-Ru.” The protagonist, Rito Yuki, is just an ordinary high school student who secretly loves Haruna. However, after meeting an alien princess, his life changes. The princess tells her father that Rito is the man she will marry to escape her arranged marriage. Eventually, the alien princess Lala moves in with Rito, and more girls gradually enter his life.
1.3. Types of Main Characters in Harem
There are three main types of protagonists in the Harem genre:
- Battle Harem: In this type, the protagonist has multiple relationships but focuses more on action than romance. The female characters often have equal roles and are there to support the male protagonist through challenges. A notable example is “Chivalry of a Failed Knight.” In this story, Ikki Kurogane dreams of becoming a magical knight, or Blazer, despite having no magical powers. He trains his body and mind, fighting to prove himself, and is adored by many girls, including a princess.
- Slice-of-life Harem: The protagonist in these Animes is typically an ordinary person with no outstanding qualities, but somehow gathers a Harem. A prime example is “Shuffle!” where the main character, Rin Tsuchimi, is just a regular 17-year-old high school student. Yet, aside from his childhood friend, he is also loved by the daughter of the king and several other notable figures.
- Ecchi Harem: In this type of Harem, all the female characters love the male protagonist, and other male characters are attracted to the female lead. These Animes often contain sexual content.
2. What is Reverse Harem?
In addition to the concept of Harem, you should also know about Reverse Harem. While typical Harem Animes feature an ordinary male protagonist surrounded by multiple girls, Reverse Harem involves a female protagonist surrounded by many attractive men vying for her attention and love.
3. TOP Must-Watch Harem Anime
3.1. Date A Live (2013)
One of the best Harem Animes is “Date A Live.” The story follows Shido Itsuka, a high school student in Japan. He leads an ordinary life until a spacequake occurs on the first day of the new school year. As a result, a girl clad in armor appears before him.
According to Kotori, his adopted sister, this girl is a Spirit. She also reveals that she is the commander of an organization tasked with preventing Spirit disasters and invites him to join. From that moment, Shido’s life changes dramatically.
3.2. Sword Art Online (2012)
“Sword Art Online” is set in the year 2024, where a new gaming technology allows people to connect to a virtual world through a VR helmet. This innovation sparks global excitement, with many eager to try the feature.
Akihiko Kayaba, the creator of SAO, reveals that once players log into the game, they cannot exit. If they die in the virtual world, they also die in real life. To regain freedom, players must defeat the final boss on the 100th floor of the tower.
3.3. High School DxD (2012)
Also known as “High School Dragon,” this Anime follows Issei Hyoudou, a second-year high school student, who nearly loses his life on his first date. His girlfriend, Yuuma Amono, is actually a fallen angel named Ranare. During their date, she takes him to a deserted location and asks him to stop breathing immediately.
However, Issei is saved by the most beautiful girl at school, who turns out to be a demon rather than a deity. After being rescued, Issei is reincarnated as a demon with supernatural abilities, marking the beginning of his journey into the world of angels and demons.
Other interesting Harem Animes you can watch include:
- Trinity Seven (2014)
- Mahouka Koukou No Rettousei (2014)
- Monster Musume No Iru Nichijou (2015)
- No Game No Life (2015)
- Isekai wa Smartphone to Tomo Ni (2017)
- The Master of Ragnarok & Blesser of Einherjar (2018)