I definitely would recommend Ajin, as my favorite anime of the last few years, and could end up being a top 2 all time once it's done. Don't expect too many action sequences because it is more of a thriller than straight up action. But it is gripping with its presentation and aesthetic and just doesn't let go, or at least from my perspective. There is a very polarizing opinion about it due to production style, but us fans think it is pretty much the best anime ever). It's sort of like Tokyo Ghoul (MANGA verison), with its intricately built world, characters, and storyline. The main character, while he may not be "likable", is extremely believable and well-developed, and each character has their own little story which makes sense in its world. The 2nd season isn't out yet, but the development through backstories in Ajin really works well, and I say that as someone who usually cringes at your typical flashback stuff. Watch the first episode and you can probably figure out whether or not you would like it.
I agree with the Madoka/NGE thing too. You can look back at the older animes from a historical perspective and use qualifiers like "for its time", "for its budget", etc., but I think once you've been spoiled with the good modern stuff, your eyes don't look as kindly on the much less intricate and fluid older stuff. I've gotta say though - Ghibli, with its budgets, was able to transcend the time constraints for the most part. It's hard to believe when some of Miyazaki's stuff, in particular, came out. And somehow the minimalist low-budget production of Serial Experiments Lain led to a product that doesn't feel dated.
