Top 10 Must-Watch Anime Series for a Complete Viewing Experience

Get ready for a marathon of anime with our list of the top 10 series that you can watch from start to finish. With a world of television entertainment at our disposal, it's the perfect time to indulge in the best anime offerings, both new and old. So grab your favorite snacks and get ready for a binge-watch session that you won't soon forget!

Numerous anime series are available, but only a handful are truly worth watching and have a satisfying conclusion. This list includes several older anime, making it essential viewing for new fans. Without further ado, here are the must-watch anime series with thoroughly satisfying endings.

Best anime that you can completely watch

These are our picks for the best anime series that you can watch all in one today.

10. Naruto Shippuden (2007-2017, 500 episodes)

Crunchyroll

Naruto Shippuden follows the adventures of Naruto, a ninja on his quest to become the leader of his village, known as Hokage. Alongside his friends Hinata, Sakura, and rival Sasuke, Naruto engages in action-packed battles filled with ninjitsu. This series is the second part of Naruto, the first part known for its filler episodes. Fans often use episode guides to navigate their way to Naruto Shippuden due to its lengthy 500 episode count. So, be prepared for a long binge-watching session if you decide to dive into the Naruto series.

9. Cowboy Bebop (1998-1999, 26 episodes)

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Cowboy Bebop is renowned as one of the greatest anime series. It is set in the future, after Earth has become uninhabitable and humanity has colonized the solar system. Due to increased crime, bounty hunters are legalized by the government to capture criminals. The story revolves around a group of bounty hunters, Spike and Jet, living on their ship, the Bebop, with newcomers Faye and Ed. As they struggle to make a living, Spike's past comes back to haunt him. While a live-action adaptation is available on Netflix, sticking to the original anime is widely recommended due to its iconic music and storytelling.

8. Trigun (1998-1999, 26 episodes)

Follow the misadventures of Vash the Stampede, a heavily armed pacifist in the far-off future, as he navigates a mysterious past and a large bounty on his head for a disastrous incident he can’t remember. Accompanied by two insurance agents who make note of the damages made on his adventures, Vash's story in Trigun combines serious storytelling, dramatic action, and cartoonish comedy exceptionally well. Although a new Trigun anime has been released, starting with the classic 1998 version is recommended for a full experience of "Love and peace!"

7. Code Geass (2006-2007, 25 episodes)

In an alternate timeline, the kingdom of Britannia has conquered much of the Western world and Japan after a brutal war involving giant mechs. Lelouch Vi Britannia, the banished prince living in Japan with his disabled sister, is determined to seek vengeance against his father and dismantle the kingdom of Britannia.

Lelouch acquires the ability to control anyone he gazes at, but only once, from a mysterious girl. He uses this power to lead a resistance movement within Japan against the occupying forces of Britannia. However, his plans take a dangerous turn when he discovers that his best friend has joined the opposing side. While Code Geass contains some quirky teenage moments, its core lies in the tale of rebellion and intense mech battles.

6. Neon Genesis Evangelion (1995-1996, 26 episodes)

Crunchyroll

Neon Genesis Evangelion is a beloved anime with a dedicated fanbase that praises its complexity. The series features a rich and intricate cast of characters, as well as a storyline that is open to interpretation by viewers. The show is known for its stunning animation and iconic imagery, as well as its catchy theme tune.

Set in the distant future of 2015, the story follows humanity's battle against giant monsters called Angels using huge bio-mechanical robots known as Evangelions. The main character, Shinji, is unexpectedly brought into the fight by his father and is forced to pilot an Evangelion without any training, leading to disastrous consequences. Alongside Shinji, Asuka and Rei form an awkward but necessary bond as they join forces in the fight against the Angels.

5. Death Note (2006-2007, 37 episodes)

Netflix

High schooler Light Yagami discovers a mysterious notebook that has the power to cause the death of anyone whose name is written inside. Encouraged by the god of death, Ryuk, Light becomes the elusive "Kira," a mastermind who targets criminals. The government enlists the help of "L," a brilliant but eccentric detective, to uncover Kira's identity, leading to a large-scale investigation.

While Death Note's horror elements are compelling, the detective aspect of the story is equally captivating. As Light tries to conceal his actions, Ryuk provides comedic relief and adds an element of weird humor to the narrative.

4. Hellsing Ultimate (2006-2012, 10 episodes)

Hellsing Ultimate, not to be confused with the original series based on the manga, is a dark vampire tale set in the modern day. Secret religious groups hold significant influence over the world and work to protect it from otherworldly threats aiming to bring ruin to the world.

The story follows Alucard, a powerful vampire in service to the Hellsing estate, who takes Seris Victoria, a police officer, under his wing. Together with their master, Integra, they investigate supernatural incidents and uncover a massive conspiracy. Hellsing Ultimate features intense violence and a compelling story that keeps you coming back for more.

3. Attack on Titan (2013-2023, 94 episodes)

Crunchyroll

Humanity lives in fear, seeking refuge in corrupt, walled-off kingdoms to evade the colossal humanoid Titans. We follow the story of Eren Yeager, a young man filled with anger after losing his mother to a Titan attack. He joins the Survey Corps, determined to find a way to eradicate the Titan threat for good.

Attack on Titan barely qualifies for this list, having only concluded in November 2023. However, if you're in search of a recent anime with a riveting, action-packed, and dramatic story featuring complex characters, unexpected turns, and heartbreak, look no further than Attack on Titan.

2. Dragon Ball Z (1989-1996, 291 episodes)

Funimation

Dragon Ball Z needs no introduction, as its household name status is a rare achievement for an anime. This speaks volumes about its immense popularity. For the uninitiated, the series continues the story of the original Dragon Ball, focusing on its main character, Goku, and his allies, the Z Warriors.

In contrast to its predecessor, the sequel series delves into the realm of science fiction. The Z Warriors confront formidable aliens, androids, and demons in their quest to uphold the delicate peace on Earth, often through epic battles that can shatter planets with their energy blasts.

1. Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood (2009-2010, 64 episodes)

Two brothers embark on a quest to bring their mother back to life using science-based magic. Their failed attempt results in one brother losing his leg and the other losing his entire body, with his soul now attached to a suit of armor. Together, they journey across the land to find a way to recover their bodies, and along the way, they make new allies and uncover a significant conspiracy that will reshape their country's destiny.

Similar to Hellsing, Fullmetal Alchemist Brotherhood was created to faithfully adapt the manga series. While the original series is praised for its unique approach, the quality of Brotherhood as a faithful recreation of the source material cannot be denied. Regarded as one of the best anime series, Fullmetal Alchemist Brotherhood is currently available to watch in its entirety.

Here are our top recommendations for anime series that are worth watching from beginning to end. Consider ordering some takeout to enjoy during your viewing session. If you're still in the mood for anime, take a look at our rankings of the best fights in One Piece, a series that shows no signs of ending soon, and the most satisfying moments in anime to satisfy your anime cravings.

Editor's P/S

As a hard fan of anime, I am thrilled to see this list of must-watch anime series. It's a great selection that includes some of the most iconic and beloved anime of all time. I'm particularly excited to see Naruto Shippuden on the list, as it's one of my personal favorites. The action-packed adventures of Naruto and his friends are sure to keep viewers entertained from start to finish.

I'm also a big fan of Cowboy Bebop, which is considered by many to be one of the greatest anime series ever made. The show's unique blend of action, drama, and comedy is sure to appeal to a wide range of viewers. And of course, the iconic music of Cowboy Bebop is simply unforgettable. I highly recommend this series to anyone who hasn't seen it yet.