The Ultimate List: The Greatest Anime Series Ever Created, Ranked

Ranking the best anime series of all time is a challenging task, given the vast and diverse nature of Anime. Determining the criteria for ranking becomes even more difficult considering the various metrics fans employ to assess the quality of individual anime.

While no metric is inherently incorrect, this list takes into account factors such as animation quality, industry impact, direction, atmosphere, and consistency to determine the ranking of each anime. Unfortunately, some fan favorites like Naruto and Bleach are disqualified due to their excessive and inferior filler content. Additionally, ongoing series such as One Piece, Spy x Family, Ranking of Kings, and Kaguya-Sama are not included in this ranking since their positions cannot be determined without knowledge of their endings.

30 Fist of the North Star

Year Released	1984
Number of Episodes	109
Where to Stream it	Crunchyroll

Toei Animation's Fist of the North Star, which aired from 1984 to 1987 and was based on the manga by Buronson and Tetsuo Hara, holds a significant influence in the world of anime. The storyline revolves around Kenshiro, a skilled martial artist, who combats the warlords and bandits that have emerged following a devastating nuclear catastrophe.

29 Death Note

Fist of the North Star, the definitive anime of the 1980s, revolutionized the industry by introducing a darker and more violent style that would shape the medium for over a decade. Its profound impact is still evident today, influencing numerous anime and manga, including the acclaimed works Berserk and JoJo's Bizarre Adventure. However, even without considering its historical significance, Fist of the North Star remains an exhilarating and pulse-pounding experience.

Year Released	2006
Number of Episodes	37
Where to Stream it	Youtube Premium, Pluto TV, Tubi, Peacock, Roku, Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime

Death Note revolutionized the possibilities of a shonen series, deviating from the action-packed battles seen in Naruto and Dragon Ball Z. Instead, it captivates with its intricate psychological cat-and-mouse games. However, it is the exceptional art design and direction that truly sets this anime apart. Despite the infamous potato chip scene becoming a meme among anime enthusiasts, it is a masterful portrayal that immerses viewers in the twisted perspective of the protagonist, Light. While the series occasionally exhibits a quirky edginess, it only enhances its charm, something that lesser shows have failed to achieve. Despite a slightly controversial second part, Death Note remains an essential watch for any anime fan.

28 Anohana: The Flower We Saw That Day

Year Released	2011
Number of Episodes	11
Where to Stream it	Crunchyroll, Funimation

Anohana: The Flower We Saw That Day depicts the story of Jinta, a reclusive individual, who is unexpectedly confronted with the apparition of his deceased childhood companion, Menma. The narrative progresses into a deeply poignant yet ultimately uplifting exploration as Jinta reunites with his former group of friends, enabling them to collectively come to terms with the tragic loss of Menma.

27 Nichijou - My Ordinary Life

Anohana is a refreshing departure from the anime industry's prevailing obsession with portraying an idealized version of high school life. Instead, this masterpiece delves into the themes of trauma and personal growth, offering anime enthusiasts a more mature coming-of-age experience. Although it may not achieve the same level of popularity as certain other anime series, this is more a testament to the exceptional storytelling and profound impact of those alternative choices than any inherent flaw within Anohana's captivating and aesthetically pleasing narrative.

Year Released	2011
Number of Episodes	26
Where to Stream it	Crunchyroll, Funimation

Based on the manga by Keiichi Arawi, Nichijou - My Ordinary Life is a 2011 anime from Kyoto Animation. This lighthearted depiction of everyday life follows high school students Yūko, Mio, Mai, and Nano as they navigate through increasingly absurd situations. Crossing cultural boundaries, comedy can often lose its impact, yet Nichijou consistently delivers uproarious laughter. The series goes above and beyond to ensure its jokes hit the mark, utilizing animation and art direction to amplify humor, rather than relying solely on witty dialogue. Adapting a gag-manga can be a hit or miss endeavor, but Nichijou proves to be a comedic masterpiece, where every punchline lands effortlessly.

26 Wolf's Rain

Year Released	2003
Number of Episodes	26 + 4 OVAs
Where to Stream it	Crunchyroll, Funimation

25 Your Lie in April

Wolf's Rain stands out among anime as a truly impactful experience. Set in a bleak future on the brink of collapse, this series follows four wolves who possess the extraordinary ability to assume human form. Their purpose? To find the elusive Flower Maiden, the key to unlocking a paradise amidst the approaching apocalypse. Not only does Wolf's Rain delve into deep emotional territory, exploring the devastating consequences of a world ravaged by human-induced climate change, but it also captivates viewers with its stunning visuals and an ethereal soundtrack by the renowned Yoko Kanno. While the anime may stumble at times, it never diminishes the profound nature of this extraordinary tale.

Year Released	2014
Number of Episodes	22
Where to Stream it	Crunchyroll, Funimation, Hulu

Based on Naoshi Arakawa's manga, Your Lie in April is a 2014 anime produced by A-1 Pictures. Unlike many adaptations, Your Lie In April surpasses its source material, exhibiting exquisite music, vibrant art direction, and an emotionally powerful portrayal of characters. Protagonists Kōsei and Kaori's relationship, though familiar, is exceptionally touching, making Your Lie in April stand out in the realm of romantic dramas.

24 Megalobox

The content:

Year Released	2018
Number of Episodes	26
Where to Stream it	Crunchyroll, Hulu, Pluto TV, Peacock, Tubi

Crafted in honor of Tomorrow's Joe's 50th anniversary, is a gripping futuristic boxing series that refuses to hold back. The plot revolves around Megalobox, a young man known as Junk Dog (later named Joe), as he climbs the ranks of Megaloboxing. This intense sport combines boxing with cybernetic exoskeletons, delivering life-changing consequences for its participants. Megalobox, hailed as one of the finest sports anime ever, showcases mesmerizing animation and nail-biting matches comparable to real-life boxing. Apart from its awe-inspiring technical aspects, there's an unmistakable coolness to Megalobox that firmly places it among the greatest anime of all time.

23 Neon Genesis Evangelion

Year Released	1995
Number of Episodes	26
Where to Stream it	Netflix

Despite its controversial nature, Neon Genesis Evangelion revolutionized the world of anime, leaving an indelible mark. While mecha anime is a common genre, Evangelion stands out due to its distinctive approach, even in the face of countless imitations. Despite being criticized as pretentious by some, this series justifies its legendary status through its one-of-a-kind mech/monster designs and unforgettable characters.

Evangelion delves into the depths of despair and the emotional scars that come with living in a crumbling world. While Shinji may appear to be whining to some, a closer examination reveals a much more intricate character than what the series' critics acknowledge. In reality, young adults are often thrust into the role of saviors and are expected to shoulder the responsibility of saving the planet. However, Evangelion showcases the profound psychological toll that this burden takes on them. These teenage protagonists, namely Shinji, Asuka, and Rei, are not to blame for the world's dire situation; it is the influential figures like Gendo who are at fault. Nonetheless, society places the weight of fixing this chaos on the children. Each young adult exhibits their own unique response to this overwhelming responsibility. Rei maintains a detached and emotionless demeanor, Asuka's perfectionism and longing for validation cause her to lash out in anger, and Shinji is mentally shattered by the neglect he experiences from his own father.

Unfortunately, Evangelion ultimately loses ranking due to its philosophically intriguing yet plot-lacking finale. Although the final few episodes had to be revised to avoid unintended similarities to the 1995 sarin gas attacks, these flaws are understandable but worth mentioning. Moreover, Evangelion faces the challenge of being overshadowed by the superior storytelling of the Rebuild films. In light of these aspects, Neon Genesis Evangelion should perhaps be ranked lower... but sorry Your Lie In April, A Cruel Angel's Thesis just hits too hard.

22 Ouran High School Host Club

Year Released	2006
Number of Episodes	26
Where to Stream it	Crunchyroll, Funimation, Hulu, Netflix, Tubi

Ouran High School Host Club, a 2006 anime series produced by Studio Bones, is based on the manga by Bisco Hatori. The story revolves around Haruhi, a young woman who finds herself in a situation where she must pretend to be a male and work for the Host Club to pay off a huge debt. With its captivating premise that cleverly explores gender dynamics, Ouran High School Host Club had all the ingredients to become a surefire hit from the very first episode. Not only does the series excel in its compelling concept, but it also satirizes popular anime tropes in a refreshing and humorous way.

Another noteworthy aspect of Ouran is its significant influence. While it is not the first anime to focus on a woman's relationships with a group of attractive young men, it played a crucial role in solidifying the tropes that define this distinct genre of wish fulfillment today. The series also handles the portrayal of gender and gender roles in a captivating manner, making it an intriguing topic of discussion. With all these factors considered, it is undeniable that Ouran High School Host Club deserves a spot among the top twenty best anime series.

21 Gurren Lagann

Year Released	2007
Number of Episodes	27
Where to Stream it	Crunchyroll, Funimation, Hulu

Gurren Lagann, a 2007 anime produced by Gainax, introduces us to a young man named Simon and his mentor figure Kamina. Together, they face off against the oppressive Spiral King and his army of Beastmen, piloting the Lagann mecha. This mech anime, following Gainax's prior success with Neon Genesis Evangelion, once again redefines the genre in an over-the-top fashion that is simply irresistible.

20 Hunter x Hunter

Under its absurd exterior, Lagann delves into profound themes of human nature and freedom. The series has evoked an unparalleled emotional response from its fans, eliciting both tears of joy and sorrow. In addition to its initial 26 episodes, Gurren Lagann has significantly influenced the industry, with many of its creators going on to establish Studio Trigger. This resonates with the striking resemblance between Lagann and subsequent anime successes like Kill la Kill and Little Witch Academia. Although it may not hold the highest rank among mecha anime on this list, its sincerity and historical significance undeniably positions Gurren Lagann as a worthy contender in the top 20.

Year Released	2011
Number of Episodes	148
Where to Stream it	Crunchyroll, Netflix, Tubi, Pluto TV, and Peacock

Hunter x Hunter, a shonen battle anime produced by Madhouse, is based on the adored manga created by Yoshihiro Togashi, the mastermind behind Yu Yu Hakusho. The anime ran from 2011 to 2014 and follows the story of Gon Freces, a young boy determined to locate his elusive father who is one of the enigmatic Hunters in the series. Throughout his journey, Gon is accompanied by Kurapika, a young man seeking vengeance for his exterminated clan, Leorio, a man aspiring to become a hunter in order to fund his medical studies, and Killua, a boy of the same age as Gon who hails from a family of infamous assassins.

What sets Hunter x Hunter apart is its ability to capture the essence of classic shonen battle anime in a remarkable way. While Gon may exhibit some stereotypical traits of a shonen hero, his boundless enthusiasm and infectious energy make him truly endearing. Additionally, Nen, the power system in the series, surpasses mere convention by its intricate and meticulously crafted design, making it arguably one of the finest in the genre. However, Hunter x Hunter goes beyond refining traditional shonen tropes; it utilizes these tropes to convey profound themes about the pursuit of dreams and the consequences of violence. It is not an exaggeration to assert that Hunter x Hunter stands as the pinnacle of shonen anime, cementing its status with unwavering distinction.

19 Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex

Year Released	2002
Number of Episodes	52
Where to Stream it	Sling TV, Funimation

Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex is a 2002 anime series produced by Production I.G. It is based on Masamune Shirow's Ghost in the Shell manga and centers around Major Makoto Kusanagi and her team from Public Security Section 9. Together, they delve into the investigations of a baffling cyber-terrorist referred to as The Laughing Man.

Stand Alone Complex, although not as historically significant as the groundbreaking 1995 film that brought the franchise into the global spotlight, is a seminal work of cyberpunk that surpasses its more famous movie counterpart in several ways. The television series format gives Stand Alone Complex the added advantage of delving deeper into the characters, world, and themes that are inherent to Ghost in The Shell.

Interestingly, one of the standout elements of the series is its structure. Each episode is categorized as Stand Alone or Complex, indicating whether it is a self-contained story or contributes to the overarching plot. This simple inclusion of labeling episodes appropriately establishes viewer expectations and allows for an easily comprehensible narrative. With its compelling structure, captivating characters, and thought-provoking themes, Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex stands as one of the finest cyberpunk anime ever created.

18 Space Dandy

Year Released	2014
Number of Episodes	26
Where to Stream it	Crunchyroll, Funimation, Tubi, Hulu

In contrast to creator Shinichiro Watanabe's other renowned sci-fi series, Space Dandy may not have garnered the same level of recognition, but it certainly possesses an amusing charm coupled with thought-provoking elements. This anime delves into the exploits of an absurdly eccentric character named Dandy, accompanied by his robotic sidekick QT, and their compatriot Meow, as they embark on a cosmic journey to discover newfound extraterrestrial species. While the show could have settled for a generic episodic format based on this premise, Space Dandy instead opts for a delightfully bizarre and enchanting approach.

17 Monster

Space Dandy sets itself apart by presenting each episode in a distinct continuity, providing a fresh perspective with every installment. Contrasting the conventional use of multiverses solely for franchise crossovers, Space Dandy delves into the boundless potential of these alternate realities. This experimental series pushes the boundaries of animation, showcasing its remarkable prowess. While the superb animation alone establishes Space Dandy as a top-tier anime, it is the genuine emotional depth beneath the surface, mirroring the character of Dandy himself, that solidifies its status as an all-time classic.

Year Released	2004
Number of Episodes	74
Where to Stream it	Netflix

16 Fruits Basket

Based on Naoki Urasawa's manga, Monster tells the story of Kenzo Tenma, a surgeon burdened with the weight of saving the life of a notorious serial killer named Johan Liebert. This captivating anime unfolds as Tenma grapples with the guilt of rescuing a murderer, leading him to go to extreme lengths to correct what he considers his gravest mistake. Regarded as one of anime's finest thrillers, Monster stands apart by eschewing typical anime tropes. Its premise is so compelling that it could easily be compared to esteemed HBO series like True Detective (in fact, there were plans for it to become one). However, to truly capture the essence of Monster, a live-action adaptation would unfortunately fall short. The series' unique atmosphere and gripping tension are intrinsically tied to the stunning animation, which stems from the remarkable talent at Studio Madhouse.

Year Released	2019
Number of Episodes	63
Where to Stream it	Funimation, Hulu

Fruits Basket is deeply cherished as one of the most beloved Shojo series of all time. It revolves around Tohru, a young woman who moves in with the Sohma family after losing her mother. Despite their differences, the family is bound by a shared curse that transforms them into Chinese Zodiac animals during times of distress. This tale revolves around trauma, healing, and how Tohru aids the Sohmas in rebuilding their familial bonds.

What sets Fruits Basket apart as a remarkable anime is its ability to refine the essence of the Shojo genre. With a lack of flashy battles or action sequences, it places a greater emphasis on character development and thematic exploration. Each character copes with loss in their own unique way, lending the series the opportunity to explore the theme of grief from various perspectives. Being hailed as one of the most adored Shojo series ever created, Fruits Basket undeniably deserves its place among the greatest anime series in existence.

15 Mushi-Shi

Year Released	2005
Number of Episodes	46 + 2 Specials
Where to Stream it	Crunchyroll, Funimation, Hulu

Mushishi, an anime series by Artland, is based on Yuki Urushibara's manga of the same name. Originally airing from 2005 to 2006, the show received a second season in 2014. The story revolves around Ginko, a protagonist who assists individuals in dealing with enigmatic spirits called Mushi. Observing Ginko's tranquil approach to each Mushi is a consistent source of delight. His profound reverence for these mystical beings perfectly aligns with the series' exploration of mankind's relationship with nature, leaving little room to envision anyone else filling his role.

14 Cyberpunk Edgerunners

What truly captivates viewers about the series, however, is its serene and captivating portrayal of Edo-era Japan. Reflecting the series' profound connection to nature, Mushishi's ambiance takes center stage, akin to a soothing lullaby. The enchanting combination of its meticulously crafted soundtrack and art direction seamlessly infuse each scene with a delicate blend of tranquility and awe. Oozing with an irresistible atmosphere, this anime masterpiece is a delightful prelude to a peaceful slumber.

Year Released	2022
Number of Episodes	10
Where to Stream it	Netflix

Based on the tabletop roleplaying game series by Mike Pondsmith, Cyberpunk Edgerunners is Studio Trigger's anime prequel to Cyberpunk 2077, set to release in 2022. The story revolves around David, a young man who becomes involved in cybernetic crime following a life-altering tragedy. The series gained widespread acclaim, winning Crunchyroll's anime of the year award in 2022, surpassing popular shows like Attack on Titan and Spy x Family.

The remarkable aspect of Edgerunners lies in its enhancements to the original source material. While critics found Cyberpunk 2077's Night City to be a dull combination of cyberpunk clichés, Edgerunners breathes life into the same city, pulsating with a captivating sense of realism. Unlike in 2077 where cybernetic enhancements were merely a means to improve performance, Edgerunners transforms these augmentations into grotesque symbols of the characters' willingness to sacrifice their humanity for power. Notably, while 2077 faced immediate criticism upon release, Edgerunners was met with such positive reception that it reignited interest in the game.

Beyond being a prequel that enhances the original, what truly sets Edgerunners apart are its captivating characters. From the complex and compelling David, to the enigmatic Lucy, to the resilient Maine, and the vulnerable Rebecca, each character possesses their unique beauty and tragic essence. Their relentless longing for more, combined with the harsh realities of Night City, ultimately forces them to embrace darkness in order to survive. If there was ever a compilation of the most heart-wrenching anime, Edgerunners would undeniably claim the top spot.

13 Odd Taxi

Year Released	2021
Number of Episodes	13
Where to Stream it	Crunchyroll

Odd Taxi, produced by O.L.M., is an anime series that aired from 2021 to 2022. It revolves around Odokawa, a walrus taxi driver, who becomes entangled in a deep criminal conspiracy in Tokyo. The series quickly gained critical acclaim upon its release for good reason. With its distinct art style and clever utilization of animal characters, particularly the compelling protagonist Odokawa, it stands out among other anime series in recent years.

Odokawa's perspective on life shapes the world of Odd Taxi. His laid-back demeanor imbues the show with a comforting, lofi atmosphere, even during intense moments. Moreover, the series boasts a captivating central mystery that keeps audiences engaged with every episode and plot development. Overall, Odd Taxi's uniqueness secures its high rank among anime series.

12 Penguindrum

Year Released	2011
Number of Episodes	24
Where to Stream it	HiDive

Penguindrum, an Anime from 2011, was created by Brain Base and directed by Kunihiko Ikuhara, known for Sailor Moon. While it may not have gained as much recognition or impact as other shows on this list, Penguindrum's mesmerizing animation and incredibly unique storyline make it rank highly. Initially, Penguindrum revolves around two brothers who are determined to find a cure for their terminally ill sister, aided by three enigmatic penguins. This wonderfully strange tale raises thought-provoking questions about childhood, the psychological effects of abuse, and much more. And all of this is merely scratching the surface.

11 Dragon Ball Z

Upon closer examination, Penguindrum delves into the aftermath of the sarin gas attacks that shook Japan in 1995. This additional context provides a profound understanding of the series, shedding light on its previously enigmatic elements. The recurring visual motifs aptly symbolize the intricacies of subway systems. Even the logo discreetly alludes to this connection, featuring a circled 95 resembling a train sign. The protagonists, being youngsters, have been greatly influenced by their parents' reactions to this tragic incident. Their parents' exaggerated responses led to an unhealthy fixation on preventing any future calamity. Although the circumstances are specific to Japan, the underlying themes resonate with millennials worldwide, who grew up under the shadow of events like 9/11. Considered a quintessential anime for millennials, Penguindrum undeniably stands as a masterpiece deserving of greater recognition.

Year Released	1989
Number of Episodes	291
Where to Stream it	Crunchyroll, Funimation

Dragon Ball Z stands as one of the most iconic and influential anime ever created, and for good reason. The never-ending quest of Goku to safeguard his friends and gather the renowned Dragon Balls played a pivotal role in shaping the modern shonen genre as we know it today. Countless series, ranging from Naruto to One Piece to more recent sensations like My Hero Academia and Jujutsu Kaisen, drew inspiration from this monumental work. While some may dismiss the series as mindless, that viewpoint fails to recognize its true brilliance. The fights in Dragon Ball Z are dynamic, skillfully revealing character development and propelling the plot forward in a manner unmatched by anything produced in the few decades since its initial release.

Goku, the epitome of Dragon Ball Z's hidden depths, exceeds expectations often associated with his portrayal as a simple-minded warrior. There are subtle nuances to Goku's character that render him far more captivating than many anime enthusiasts may acknowledge. Undeniably, Goku exhibits an unwavering kindness even towards his most formidable adversaries. Within the fandom, a popular joke centers on the notion that a significant portion of Goku's friends by the conclusion of Dragon Ball Z were once his enemies. This very aspect is what adds intrigue to Goku's persona. While Goku possesses immense power, a closer examination of Dragon Ball Z reveals that his generosity is the driving force behind his strength. Each time Goku achieves a new Super Saiyan form, it is to shield his friends and loved ones. This is the genuine reason why Goku consistently surpasses Vegeta. While these elements may not appear unique in today's anime landscape, during the time of the series' initial release, they revolutionized the perception of Goku's character.

Dragon Ball Z falls short of making it into the top 10 for this list because it fails to live up to the brilliance of the original manga. The anime adaptation of Dragon Ball Z plays it safe, rarely taking advantage of the unique strengths of animation to enhance the story. While there are a few notable additions to the franchise, such as Piccolo's driving test, they are few and far between. Additionally, the anime suffers from pacing issues that are not present in the manga. Although some of these issues were addressed in the reedited series Dragon Ball Z Kai, it still had its own problems, particularly during the Buu arc. Despite these shortcomings, it is important to acknowledge Dragon Ball Z for its status as one of the greatest action anime of all time and its significant impact on the history of anime.