If you're a fan of love stories that truly evolve beyond the "almost," this post is for you! We've selected 10 romance anime where the couple actually starts dating —no tension or hints.
10. Netoge no Yome
- Grade BAD: 6.67
- Year: 2016
- Studio: Project No.9
- Episodes: 12
At first glance, Netoge no Yome seems like just a comedy about online games, but don't be fooled: there's a real, well-crafted romance behind the scenes. Hideki, traumatized by a virtual rejection, vows never to trust online relationships again... until he meets Ako, who takes the game (and love) too seriously.
However, as the two grow closer, the anime surprises by transforming virtual chaos into a sincere, off-screen romance. Despite Ako's eccentricities, the relationship evolves with lightness and even a dose of unexpected depth. It's not just about gamer fantasy—it's about finding true connection, even where you least expect it.
09. White Album 2
- MAL Rating : 7.59 (Season 1)
- Year: 2013
- Studio: Satelight
- Episodes: 13
Unlike many teen romances, White Album 2 delves deeply into human emotions. The plot begins as a typical love triangle between Haruki, Setsuna, and Kazusa, but gradually, the central romance takes shape with intensity and melancholy.
So when the relationship finally takes hold, it doesn't come without consequences. The anime doesn't deliver a perfect couple—but rather a realistic and painful portrayal of what it means to love someone deeply, yet hurt someone else in the process. It's a romantic drama that leaves its mark.
08. Kaichou Wa Maid Sama
- Grade BAD: 7.99
- Year: 2010
- Studio: JCStaff
- Episodes: 26
Misaki is the toughest student council president ever, but her secret—working at a maid café—becomes the perfect fuel for Usui's constant teasing. What could have been just a cat-and-mouse dynamic, however, evolves in a surprisingly sweet way.
As the episodes progress, the barriers are broken down. And most interestingly, when they finally start dating, the romance doesn't lose its charm. On the contrary, it gains even more charm and memorable moments. It's a slow burn that makes up for every second of teasing.
07. Kokoro Connect
- Grade BAD: 7.73
- Year: 2012
- Studio: SILVER LINK
- Episodes: 13
The group of friends in Kokoro Connect goes through an emotional rollercoaster when supernatural forces force them to switch bodies and reveal deep secrets. However, amidst the psychological chaos, a genuine and vulnerable romance blossoms.
So when a couple forms, it's not just because of attraction—it's because they truly know each other, even in the parts no one usually shows. The relationship that emerges isn't idealized, but rather based on empathy, acceptance, and mutual growth. Few anime explore this so well.
06. Tasogare Otome x Amnesia
- Grade BAD: 7.81
- Year: 2012
- Studio: SILVER LINK
- Episodes: 12
This is a romance where love transcends even death—literally. Teiichi falls in love with Yuuko, the ghost of a girl who haunts his school. It may sound dark, but the anime combines lighthearted horror with a captivating and touching romance.
Despite the supernatural circumstances, their feelings are genuine. When they start dating, it's impossible not to root for them, even knowing time is against them. It's melancholic, but also deeply beautiful. A love that defies limits.
Romance Anime with Couples – Top 5
05. Yamada-kun
- Grade BAD: 7.52
- Year: 2015
- Studio: LIDENFILMS
- Episodes: 12
This anime may seem like just another school comedy with a supernatural twist, but it goes much further. Yamada, with his ability to switch bodies by kissing others, could easily be just a braggart protagonist... however, he ends up involved in a romance that's surprisingly sincere.
Unlike other romances that drag on, here the couple starts dating for real—and early. And the best part: their relationship is an important part of the plot, not just fan service. Furthermore, there's growth, respect, and even genuinely moving scenes between them.
04. Toradora
- Grade BAD: 8.05
- Year: 2008-2009
- Studio: JCStaff
- Episodes: 25
At first, Toradora! seems like just another romantic comedy full of misunderstandings. Ryuuji and Taiga constantly butt heads, with the classic "I don't like it, but I do." But little by little, what was a forced friendship blossoms into something much more meaningful.
Once romance truly blossoms, the anime changes tone—and that's what makes it so memorable. The relationship does happen, but not in a simplistic or clichéd way. It's built on trust, personal growth, and overcoming one's own insecurities. One of the best in the genre.
Romance Anime with Couples – Top 3
03. Clannad
- MAL Rating : 7.99 (Season 1)
- Year: 2007-2008
- Studio: Kyoto Animation
- Episodes: 23
Clannad begins on a light note, with Tomoya and Nagisa's daily life at school. But unlike most school anime, this one doesn't stop at "and they lived happily ever after." In fact, it shows what comes next—marriage, hardships, and even tragedy.
It's a romance that matures alongside the characters. When the courtship begins, it's not just the climax—it's the beginning of a new journey. The anime explores the pains and joys of adulthood, and the relationship is the thread that holds it all together. Get the tissues ready.
02. Golden Time
- Grade BAD: 7.74
- Year: 2013-2014
- Studio: JCStaff
- Episodes: 24
Golden Time swaps the high school setting for a university, which completely changes the tone of the story. Tada Banri, dealing with amnesia, meets Koko—a girl who's initially obsessive but who surprises with her complex layers.
Their relationship actually happens, with all the complications an adult relationship can have. Furthermore, the anime deals with identity, trauma, and emotional maturity. It's not an idealized romance, but a real, confusing, and sometimes painful one—and that's why it's so good.
01. My Love Story
- Grade BAD: 7.89
- Year: 2015
- Studio: Madhouse
- Episodes: 24
In a world where most romance novels revolve around conventional protagonists, My Love Story!! shines by featuring Takeo—a big, kind, and unusual guy—as the hero. The best part? He starts dating the sweet Yamato right at the beginning of the series!
But anyone who thinks this is the end of the drama is mistaken. On the contrary, the focus shifts to the couple's daily life, with all the insecurities, cuteness, and challenges of first love. It's a heartwarming anime that shows that sometimes the purest love is also the most unusual.
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