There has been a problem recently with the anime list and database website My anime list (MAL), people have started looking for alternatives. The site was completely shut down for a while, and when it was eventually restored many features were disabled. The issue was due to the site’s API, but the issue was not communicated publicly at first. More information about the MyAnimeList situation can be explained below, with relevant external sources provided.
Beyond that, I’d like to recommend some alternatives for those looking to switch services, along with the pros and cons of each. If you’re here just for recommendations, skip the section below!
More information about the MyAnimeList situation
Here is the statement and comment thread from the Taiga developersan application for tracking anime videos on your computer and automatically adding them to listing sites. This is mainly useful for managing things like MyAnimeList without the need for manual updates. Now, this mainly applies to Kitsu and AniList, which are the alternatives we’ll be discussing today!
Articles detailing the start of MAL deletionalso showing some statements from administrators.
MAL update list after shutdown
Show which functionality has been restored and which functionality still needs improvement.
Alternative websites/resources
Kitsu is an anime list and database application similar to MyAnimeList. It differs in its overall layout, customization features, and rating system. As of now, it is compatible with anime tracking app Taiga.
advantage
- More profile space and customization, allowing for more favorite characters and anime/manga.
- A cleaner, more stylish interface that combines the structure of MyAnimeList with responsive design.
- Use reactions instead of comments, which appear randomly on anime information pages; a concise way to provide users with feedback about an anime series.
- Sort series by type for easy and specific searches.
shortcoming
- The design can be a little confusing when it comes to certain features
- This is not the best site for finding specific information.
- Customization must be site-wide; unlike MAL’s BBcode functionality.
- The community is smaller than MAL’s, and interactions are based on groups and concerns rather than between friends.
- Some functionality of the site seems broken (at least to me), such as role links not redirecting to the role’s profile.
Like Kitsu, AniList is another anime repository and list site. It is an improvement over MyAnimeList, and its user interface has a modern and responsive design. Although data-based animations are important, AniList focuses more on its social functions. After users enter the website, social information and forum posts will be pushed to the front.
advantage
- The community is smaller but more connected. (Can be for or against)
- Highly social aspects, comments, and discussions are sorted in a feed-like format for easier reading.
- Various rating systems such as emojis, numerical ratings, stars, and more.
- Analyze watched anime based on viewing time, popular genres, etc.
- Various search options when looking for anime or manga. (Example: by type, season, etc.)
shortcoming
- The forum layout could be better designed, currently it’s confusing and makes little difference.
- There is no feature specifically recommending anime that users may be interested in, just popular anime.
- Again, customization must be site-wide; unlike MAL’s BBcode functionality.
- Character pages and other pages need to be updated and provided with adequate information. (This is often done by community volunteers.)
Finally, I suggest there is an option, but due to my lack of experience with repositories I cannot recommend it. This website is Ani database.
Let me know if this post was helpful to you and let me know if you have any comments or concerns!
Thank you for reading!
Like Kitsu, AniList is another anime repository and list site. It is an improvement over MyAnimeList, and its user interface has a modern and responsive design. Although data-based animations are important, AniList focuses more on its social functions. After users enter the website, social information and forum posts will be pushed to the front.
advantage
- The community is smaller but more connected. (Can be for or against)
- Highly social aspects, comments, and discussions are sorted in a feed-like format for easier reading.
- Various rating systems such as emojis, numerical ratings, stars, and more.
- Analyze watched anime based on viewing time, popular genres, etc.
- Various search options when looking for anime or manga. (Example: by type, season, etc.)
shortcoming
- The forum layout could be better designed, currently it’s confusing and makes little difference.
- There is no feature specifically recommending anime that users may be interested in, just popular anime.
- Again, customization must be site-wide; unlike MAL’s BBcode functionality.
- Character pages and other pages need to be updated and provided with adequate information. (This is often done by community volunteers.)
Finally, I suggest there is an option, but due to my lack of experience with repositories I cannot recommend it. This website is Ani database.
Let me know if this post was helpful to you and let me know if you have any comments or concerns!
Thank you for reading!