The Ultimate Guide to the Top 10 Action-Packed Anime Series

The anime industry offers a wide range of genres, but the most popular among them is action. We have compiled a list of the top 10 series that fall under this category. Shonen anime, in particular, encompasses a diverse array of storytelling, encompassing thriller, horror, romance, and more.

With that being said, action is a genre that remains timeless within the world of anime. Throughout the years, the industry has delivered numerous outstanding anime series, and each year brings forth a multitude of new shows to further expand this genre. However, in the vast sea of action, it can be challenging to discern which action anime series are truly worth investing your time in.

Although many action anime boast expertly-orchestrated fight sequences, some may fall short in the storytelling department, and compelling action loses its impact without a meaningful narrative. In this article, we explore some of the standout action anime that are surefire winners.

1. Baki Hanma

When discussing action anime, Baki Hanma is a name that cannot be overlooked. The series features impeccably choreographed fights and stunning animation. Season 1 of Baki Hanma was released in 2021 and has since been praised for its spectacular fight sequences. However, without having seen the previous seasons of the franchise, catching up with the storyline may prove to be challenging.

Baki Hanma, a highly skilled martial artist, is the son of Yujiro Hanma, the strongest fighter and most powerful man on Earth. The plot follows the central character as he engages in numerous underground fights to sharpen his abilities and ultimately surpass his father by defeating him.

Where to stream: Netflix

2. Kengan Ashura

Kengan Ashura is an anime series centered around martial arts, set in a world where businessmen employ gladiators to secure business deals. Although it may bear some resemblance to Baki, this series stands out with its own unique charm, offering more intense fights and brutal scenes.

You can watch the series "Baki Hanma" on Netflix. The show follows Ohma Tokita, who is recruited by the CEO of Nogi Incorporation to fight for the company and secure major contracts. Despite its classic animation style, the series is often overlooked due to ineffective marketing and promotion, but it is definitely worth watching.

3. Cyberpunk: Edgerunners

Based on the hit game Cyberpunk 2077, Edgerunners debuted on Netflix in 2022 and quickly captured the hearts of fans with its captivating setting. The vibrant color scheme of the show is a visual delight, and the expertly animated action sequences are sure to keep viewers on the edge of their seats. When a video game is adapted into an anime, fans often worry if it will live up to the original masterpiece. Thankfully, Edgerunners not only trended on social media but also became the most talked-about anime, thanks to its sleek character designs and compelling storyline.

Where to stream: Netflix

4. Jojo’s Bizzare Adventure

Released in 2012, the first season of Jojo’s Bizzare Adventure quickly gained a massive following. Each season of the series features a standalone story with new characters at the center. While every installment brings something fresh to the franchise, the most recent season, Stone Ocean, has captured the hearts of fans like never before.

You won't be able to resist watching Jojo's Bizarre Adventure with its exotic art style. The characters in the franchise are seen wearing modern clothing, setting it apart from typical anime.

Available for streaming on: Netflix

5. Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood

IMDb

This list includes the anime that has consistently held the top spot on MyAnimeList for years. While other series like Attack on Titan and Frieren have temporarily bumped it to second place, it quickly reclaims its position.

FMAB is a series that captivates its audience with its compelling action and sensory delights. Fans who had read the manga before watching the anime praised FMAB for its faithful adaptation and attention to detail, leaving nothing lacking.

Where to stream: Crunchyroll

6. Vinland Saga

If you enjoyed the intense action in the first three seasons of Attack on Titan, then you're in for a treat with Vinland Saga Season 1. The studio behind the impressive fight scenes in both shows is a big part of what makes them so similar.

The second season of Vinland Saga was enjoyable, but its slow pacing leans toward the style of Isekai anime. If you're a die-hard action fan, don't overlook the first season of this anime series, animated by WIT.

In the beginning, Vinland Saga introduces us to young Thorfinn, who has a carefree and lively attitude. However, his life takes a dark turn when his father is murdered. This launches the story of revenge and redemption, adding to the action-packed theme of the anime.

Where to stream: Crunchyroll

7. Demon Slayer

Demon Slayer has treated us to numerous breathtaking combat scenes, which captivate not only due to the characters' martial prowess and agility but also because of the unique color palettes employed in each battle. While the franchise has gifted us with three seasons thus far, it's important to highlight that the showdown between the Flame Hashira and the Upper Moon Three stands as one of the greatest of all time.

8. Dragon Ball

The Demon Slayer series began with a protagonist who was inexperienced in battling demons, but as the story progressed, he captivated fans with his remarkable skills with a sword. The fourth season of the anime is expected to premiere in early to mid 2024, and fans are eagerly anticipating even more thrilling battles.

Crunchyroll

Dragon Ball is a fantastic mix of action, adventure, and drama. It captivated the interest of many fans and helped make anime a worldwide phenomenon. The series introduced us to iconic characters who have left a lasting impact on celebrities, directors, and authors alike.

Dragon Ball has received nothing short of a positive reception for its old-school artwork, animation, and character development, making it one of the most prestigious anime ever. And let’s not forget that the action sequences in Dragon Ball are some of the best we’ve seen on television.

9. One-Punch Man

The anime One-Punch Man features the incredibly powerful character, Saitama, whose mere sneeze could obliterate a large portion of Jupiter. Saitama is a bald man in a cape who did not inherit his superhuman abilities - he dedicated himself to intense training in order to become a superhero.

10. Jujutsu Kaisen

Despite his ability to defeat evil with just one punch, Saitama continually grapples for acknowledgment from others. The series can be thrilling at moments, but it also offers plenty of comedic relief as it showcases the main character's goofy personality.

If you're a fan of action-packed anime, then Jujutsu Kaisen is a must-watch. The series follows Yuji Itadori, a young man who makes a promise to his grandfather to always protect humanity. When he accidentally consumes a cursed finger, he unleashes a powerful curse. Along his journey to becoming a skilled sorcerer, he encounters influential characters such as Gojo, Nanami, Megumi, and more.

The initial season was undeniably a hit, but the second season surpassed all expectations and set new records. Each episode is filled with thrilling fight scenes, leaving fans breathless with the stunning animation in the latest season.

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Editor's P/S

As a Gen Z fan, I am thrilled to see the resurgence of action-packed anime in recent years. The industry has been churning out some truly epic shows that have captured the imaginations of fans around the world. From the intense martial arts battles of Baki Hanma to the high-octane cyberpunk action of Edgerunners, there is something for everyone in the world of action anime.

One of the things I love most about action anime is the way it combines thrilling fight sequences with compelling storytelling. A great action anime can keep you on the edge of your seat from start to finish, but it also needs to have a strong narrative to keep you invested in the characters and their journeys. Shows like Demon Slayer and Attack on Titan are perfect examples of this, as they offer both stunning action sequences and compelling stories that keep you coming back for more.

Overall, I think the future of action anime is bright. With so many talented creators working in the industry, I am confident that we will continue to see amazing new shows in the years to come. I can't wait to see what the next generation of action anime has in store for us!