The Best Animes of All Time
While opinions on anime quality may vary, a consensus among fans commonly acknowledges that series such as JJK and One Piece are regarded as some of the finest examples in the genre.
Anime has captured the hearts of millions around the world with its unique storytelling, vibrant visuals, and diverse characters. Over the years, numerous anime series have left a lasting impact on viewers, becoming beloved classics or setting new standards for the medium. In this article, we will explore the best.
10. Death Note
The anime landscape underwent a transformative shift in the 2000s, marked by a wave of experimentation with storytelling techniques and genres. Among the standout productions of this era is “Death Note” (2006–2007), an adaptation of the manga by Tsugumi Ohba and Takeshi Obata that left an indelible mark on the medium.
“Death Note” is a psychological thriller that centers on Light Yagami, a high school student who acquires supernatural abilities through the Death Note, a mysterious book that grants its user the power to kill by writing names within its pages. With this newfound power and a brilliant mind, Light embarks on a morally ambiguous crusade that reverberates globally. The ensuing cat-and-mouse dynamic pits Light against world-class investigators who rival him in cunning and intellect, creating a narrative tension that has inspired numerous dark protagonist shonen anime and live-action adaptations.
This classic anime, emerging from a relatively concise 37-episode run, has earned its place as one of the best and most influential creations in the anime realm. “Death Note” continues to captivate audiences globally, its popularity driven by a compelling storyline, well-defined characters, and a blend of mystery and horror elements. The intense strategic chase between Light, now known as Kira, and the enigmatic detective L adds further depth to its narrative appeal, solidifying its status as a timeless masterpiece.
9. My Hero Academia
My Hero Academia (2016-present), is an adaptation of Kohei Horikoshi’s manga that has left an indelible mark in the realm of anime. Set in a world where superpowers, or Quirks, are commonplace, the series unfolds the story of Izuku Midoriya, an aspiring hero who lacks powers in a society teeming with superhuman abilities. While the superhero genre is abundant, “My Hero Academia” brings a refreshing twist by focusing on Midoriya’s journey—a hero determined to save others despite lacking inherent powers.
Even after acquiring his dream quirk, the series continually challenges traditional hero narratives with inventive twists, delving into the essence of heroism with consistent humor, heart, and spectacular action sequences. Its stunning animation, an endearing array of well-developed supporting characters, and the ability to craft remarkably unique superpowers contribute to making “My Hero Academia” a breath of fresh air—marked by frequent silliness, enduring sweetness, and perpetual surprises.
“My Hero Academia,” a highly popular ongoing anime, spans several seasons, with the original manga serialized in Weekly Shonen Jump since 2014. Surpassing 100 episodes in 2021, the series continues to captivate audiences, with the seventh season in production and the narrative entering its final phase. The show’s unique blend of American superhero comic aesthetics and Japanese anime style has further endeared it to an international audience, solidifying its status as a global phenomenon.
8. Cowboy Bebop
A standout from the 1990s, “Cowboy Bebop” (1998-1999), directed by Shinichiro Watanabe, seamlessly blended genres to create a space western masterpiece. Fusing elements of jazz, noir, and science fiction, the series garnered a cult following with its stylish animation and memorable characters.
Originally airing in Japan from 1998 to 1999 with 26 episodes, “Cowboy Bebop” became a beloved anime globally. Produced by Sunrise, this original science fiction masterpiece follows bounty hunter Spike Spiegel and his partner Jet Black as they traverse the galaxy aboard the Bebop, chasing criminals for bounties. The addition of enigmatic femme fatale Faye Valentine and quirky hacker prodigy Ed adds depth to the narrative, with each character’s backstory explored across genres from noir to western. The series features an iconic jazzy soundtrack that further enhances its allure.
Even over two decades later, “Cowboy Bebop” stands the test of time, retaining its visual and narrative brilliance. Introducing the iconic characters Spike, Jet, Faye, Ed, and Ein, the series boasts a resonant story, compelling characters, and an unforgettable soundtrack. Its influence extends beyond the anime realm, with praise from figures like Orson Scott Card, Rian Johnson, and Robin Williams citing its impact on their work.
7. Naruto
A standout from the 2000s, “Naruto” (2002-2007), based on Masashi Kishimoto’s manga, stands as a significant entry in the anime landscape. This coming-of-age narrative revolves around Naruto Uzumaki, a young ninja harboring dreams of becoming the revered Hokage. With its captivating storyline and a memorable ensemble of characters, “Naruto” evolved into a global phenomenon during its run.
The Naruto series, often hailed as one of the “big three” anime due to its widespread popularity, earned its acclaim for good reason. Packed with action-laden fight sequences, delightful moments of humor, and emotionally charged scenes, the series transitioned into “Naruto Shippuden,” adopting a darker and more serious tone as characters matured and faced increasingly formidable challenges. Even after its conclusion, Naruto remains a colossal presence in the world of shounen anime, its impact enduring through the years.
Originating from Masashi Kishimoto’s Weekly Shonen Jump manga in 1999 and concluding in 2014, the Naruto anime series spanned an impressive 15 years. Comprising two titles, “Naruto” (2002-2007) and “Naruto: Shippuden” (2007-2017), the series navigated the fictional world of Shinobi, where the protagonist Naruto, despite his initial ineffectiveness, grows with the support of friends and mentors. Set against the backdrop of Ninja techniques fueled by chakra energy, “Naruto” has left an indelible mark, solidifying its status as one of the greatest anime with a ninja theme, resonating with audiences globally even long after its conclusion.
6. Demon Slayer
Entering the 2020s, the anime landscape persists in its evolution, consistently pushing the boundaries of storytelling. A noteworthy addition from this decade is “Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba” (2019-present), an action-packed series adapted from Koyoharu Gotouge’s manga. The narrative revolves around Tanjiro Kamado, a determined young demon slayer embarked on a quest to avenge his family and rescue his sister.
“Demon Slayer” has swiftly captured the attention of audiences worldwide, offering a visually stunning and emotionally resonant experience. The series intertwines compelling character development with intense action sequences, creating a narrative tapestry that transcends conventional storytelling norms. The animation quality, spearheaded by the Ufotable studio, has received widespread acclaim for its breathtaking visuals and dynamic choreography, setting a new standard for excellence in the anime industry.
As “Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba” continues to unfold its tale, it stands as a testament to the continued innovation within the anime medium. With its blend of gripping storytelling, remarkable visuals, and emotional depth, the series exemplifies the creative prowess driving anime forward into a new era of storytelling excellence.
5. Hunter x Hunter
“Hunter x Hunter,” pronounced “Hunter Hunter,” initially treads the well-worn path of a familiar trope: a young hero, Gon, ventures beyond his small town on a quest. In this case, his journey is driven by the desire to find his long-lost father, a world-renowned licensed Hunter. Armed with only this cryptic clue, Gon courageously sets forth, intending to navigate the perilous Hunter Exam and follow in his father’s footsteps.
Despite the seemingly mundane premise, “Hunter x Hunter” quickly dispels any notions of cheeriness, revealing a narrative that delves into profound emotional highs and lows, crafting compelling arcs for both protagonists and antagonists alike. The series excels not only in its dramatic action, a hallmark of the shonen genre but also in its nuanced exploration of character dynamics.
Created by Yoshihiro Togashi, “Hunter x Hunter” extends beyond its typical shonen framework, offering a complex narrative within the realm of Japanese manga and anime. Following Gon Freecss on his transformative journey to become a Hunter, the series unfolds with intricate plotlines, well-developed characters, and intense battles. Gon’s quest intertwines with themes of friendship, adventure, and self-discovery, contributing to the series’ widespread appeal. “Hunter x Hunter” stands as a testament to the art of storytelling, captivating a global audience with its rich world-building and continuing to hold a cherished place in the hearts of anime and manga enthusiasts worldwide.
4. Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood
An impactful anime from the 2000s, “Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood” (2009-2010), adapted from Hiromu Arakawa’s manga, stands as an epic tale that left an enduring impression. This narrative, following two brothers on their quest for the Philosopher’s Stone, captivated audiences with its intricate world-building, complex characters, and thought-provoking themes.
What sets “Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood” apart is its masterful balance of intricate world-building, an ensemble of memorable characters, iconic moments, and exhilarating battles. The Elric brothers’ journey into this expansive world is framed with empathy, making their pursuit of forbidden alchemy to resurrect their deceased mother understandable despite the dire consequences. Even in the face of divine intervention discouraging them, their relentless quest unravels a narrative woven with monsters, government conspiracies, and themes of divinity. Amidst this elegance, the series skillfully reveals moments that bare it all, leaving viewers standing in front of their TVs, enthusiastically cheering for the Elric brothers.
“Fullmetal Alchemist” (鋼の錬金術師), known as Hagaren in Japanese, is a globally renowned sci-fi anime. The series is divided into two parts: “Fullmetal Alchemist,” which diverges from the manga’s conclusion, and “Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood,” which faithfully depicts the manga’s storyline. The latter is particularly recommended for its faithful portrayal of the manga’s narrative.
3. One Piece
Undoubtedly, one of the most renowned and best-selling ongoing manga and anime series is “One Piece”. Originating with its first manga volume in 1997, this global phenomenon boasts over 100 volumes sold worldwide. The anime adaptation swiftly followed two years later, and the journey has since unfolded across more than 1,000 episodes. Remarkably, “One Piece” offers a narrative structure that allows beginners to jump in at any point and savor the adventures that span approximately 10 distinct parts.
The heart of “One Piece” beats with the captivating exploits of its main character, Monkey D. Luffy, and his pirate crew in a world filled with excitement. Luffy’s quest for the legendary treasure known as the “One Piece” propels the narrative forward. Within this universe, Devil Fruits play a pivotal role, granting superpowers to those who consume them, albeit at the cost of losing the ability to swim. The resulting clashes among Devil Fruit users, including Luffy, unfold in breathtaking and powerful fight scenes.
Boasting over 1,000 episodes, “One Piece” stands as one of the longest anime series, yet its length doesn’t deter fans from immersing themselves in the tale of Luffy and the Straw Hat Pirates. For nearly two decades, the series has captivated audiences globally, showcasing the brilliance of Eiichiro Oda’s vision. The world-building, rich character development, humorous adventures, and stellar adaptation contribute to “One Piece” securing its place at the pinnacle of shonen anime history. Oda’s enduring impact ensures that the series continues to enthrall viewers, promising a lasting legacy for years to come.
2. Jujutsu Kaisen
“Jujutsu Kaisen,” crafted by the talented Gege Akutami, stands as a beloved Japanese manga series renowned for its captivating narrative and engaging artwork. Centered around Yuji Itadori, a high school student thrust into the realm of jujutsu after swallowing a cursed object housing the formidable curse Ryomen Sukuna, the story unfolds with an intriguing mix of supernatural elements and intense action.
Yuji’s journey leads him to the Tokyo Metropolitan Jujutsu Technical High School, where he hones his skills to become a jujutsu sorcerer. His mission: safeguard innocent lives from the malevolent curses that lurk in the shadows. Teaming up with his classmates, Megumi Fushiguro and Nobara Kugisaki, Yuji confronts a multitude of curses, unraveling the mysterious and dark facets of the jujutsu world.
What sets “Jujutsu Kaisen” apart is its fusion of action, supernatural intrigue, and a compelling storyline filled with impactful battles and emotionally charged moments. The series has garnered widespread acclaim for its well-developed characters and the visual brilliance of its artwork. Its popularity has surged, making it a must-read for enthusiasts of the shonen genre. “Jujutsu Kaisen” not only resonates with its audience through its dynamic storytelling but also solidifies its place as a standout work in the realm of manga.
1. Attack On Titan
There are countless anime out there, each with its own unique charm and appeal. However, when it comes to the top best anime, one name that consistently comes to mind is “Attack on Titan”. This dark fantasy series has captivated audiences worldwide with its intense storytelling, complex characters, and jaw-dropping animation. Set in a post-apocalyptic world overrun by giant humanoid creatures known as Titans, the show follows the journey of Eren Yeager and his friends as they join the fight against these merciless beings. With its intricate plot twists, emotional depth, and stunning action sequences, “Attack on Titan” has solidified its place as one of the greatest anime of all time.
