Top 30 Must-Watch Anime Series, Ranked

Article Overview

The influence of Fist of the North Star in the 1980s elevated the level of grittiness and violence in anime, creating a lasting impression on the genre and serving as a catalyst for the creation of other renowned works such as Berserk and JoJo's Bizarre Adventure.

Death Note revolutionized the world of shonen series through its intense psychological battles, exceptional art design, and captivating direction that immersed viewers in the twisted point of view of the main character, Light.

Neon Genesis Evangelion forever transformed the realm of anime by offering a fresh approach to mecha, memorable characters, and an in-depth exploration of psychological anguish and the weight of shouldering the responsibility to protect the world. Despite the controversy it generated, it continues to hold a legendary status.

Ranking the best anime series of all time is a challenging task due to the vast diversity and scope of the medium. The multitude of metrics used by fans to assess the quality of each anime further complicates the process.

While there is no inherently incorrect metric, this list focuses on animation quality, industry impact, direction, atmosphere, and consistency to determine the ranking of each anime. Consequently, some beloved fan favorites like Naruto and Bleach are excluded due to the significant amount of poor filler content. Additionally, ongoing series such as One Piece, Spy x Family, Ranking of Kings, and Kaguya-Sama are not included in this list since their rankings would depend on their yet-to-be-determined conclusions.

30. Fist of the North Star

Based on the Manga Created By Buronson & Tetsuo Hara

Running from 1984 to 1987, Toei Animation's Fist of the North Star is widely recognized for its significant impact. The series follows Kenshiro, a martial artist who battles warlords and bandits in a post-nuclear apocalypse world.

Regarded as the quintessential anime of the 1980s, Fist of the North Star revolutionized the genre by introducing a gritty and violent tone that shaped anime for over a decade. Its influence is still evident today, with numerous anime and manga referencing it and even finding inspiration from it, such as Berserk and JoJo's Bizarre Adventure. Beyond its historical significance, Fist of the North Star remains an exhilarating and enjoyable experience.

29. Death Note

Based on the Manga Created By Tsugumi Ohba & Takeshi Obata

Death Note revolutionized the genre of shonen series, veering away from explosive battles seen in Naruto or Dragon Ball Z. In contrast, Death Note engages viewers in a captivating psychological cat-and-mouse game. However, what truly elevates this anime series is its exceptional art design and direction. Light's infamous potato chip scene, now a meme among anime fans, is a small yet remarkable moment that skillfully immerses viewers in his twisted perspective through impactful direction and sound design. While the series occasionally embraces a somewhat goofy edginess, it adds to its charm and sets it apart from lesser shows. Despite a controversial second part that diminishes its standing, Death Note remains a must-watch for any anime enthusiast.

28. Anohana: The Flower We Saw That Day

Original Anime Series Created By Tatsuyuki Nagai, Mari Okada, & Masayoshi Tanaka

Anohana: The Flower We Saw That Day revolves around Jinta, a young hikikomori, who starts to encounter the ghost of his former best friend, Menma. This poignant tale takes viewers on a heart-wrenching yet ultimately life-affirming journey as Jinta reunites with his old group of friends to process the loss of Menma. Unlike many high school-centric anime, Anohana's exploration of themes such as trauma and personal growth appeals to fans seeking a more mature coming-of-age experience. While it may not rank as high as certain other anime, this is more a testament to the exceptional quality of those shows rather than any shortcomings in Anohana's captivating and beautifully crafted narrative.

27. Nichijou - My Ordinary Life

Based on the Manga Created By Keiichi Arawi

Nichijou - My Ordinary Life is a Kyoto Animation anime that premiered in 2011. This endearing slice-of-life narrative revolves around the daily lives of high school students Yūko, Mio, Mai, and Nano, who constantly find themselves involved in increasingly absurd situations. Translating comedy can often be challenging across different cultures, but Nichijou effortlessly overcomes this barrier, consistently delivering uproarious humor. Rather than relying solely on clever dialogue, the series goes above and beyond to ensure its jokes hit the mark by incorporating dynamic animation and art direction. Adapting gag-manga is often a risky endeavor, but with Nichijou, it consistently delivers success after success.

26. Wolf's Rain

Original Anime Series Created By Keiko Nobumoto & Studio Bones

Wolf's Rain is an anime that delivers a powerful emotional impact. Set in a dystopian future on the brink of collapse, the story revolves around four wolves who possess the ability to transform into human beings. Their goal is to find the Flower Maiden, who holds the key to paradise. What sets Wolf's Rain apart is its exploration of the psychological toll on its characters as they navigate a world that is crumbling due to man-made climate change. This profound anime delves into the deep themes of impending doom and the burden of saving a doomed world. Additionally, the series captivates viewers with its stunning visuals and a haunting soundtrack composed by the legendary Yoko Kanno. While it may not be without flaws, Wolf's Rain remains a profound and impactful series.

25. Your Lie in April

Based on the Manga Created By Naoshi Arakawa

24. Megalobox

Your Lie in April is a 2014 anime crafted by A-1 Pictures that revolves around the story of Kōsei, a former piano prodigy, and his connection with the spirited violinist, Kaori. While the original manga is intriguing, Your Lie in April surpasses it, standing as a rare anime that enhances its source material. The series captivates with its exquisite music and vibrant art direction, effectively highlighting the darker moments within its tragic narrative. However, the true strength lies in the compelling characters of Your Lie in April. The dynamic between Kōsei, who is reserved, and Kaori, who is free-spirited, embodies a timeless romance that evokes deep emotions, making the anime truly exceptional.

Original Anime Series Created By TMS Entertainment & 3xCube

To celebrate the 50th anniversary of the highly influential Tomorrow's Joe, Megalobox was created. This gritty sci-fi boxing series delivers its story without holding back. Following the journey of a young man named Junk Dog (later known as Joe), Megalobox showcases his rise in the world of Megaloboxing. Combining the intensity of boxing with cybernetic exoskeletons, this lethal sport has life-changing consequences for its participants. Considered one of the greatest sports anime of all time, Megalobox features fluid animation and matches that are as thrilling as real-world boxing bouts. In addition to its impressive technical aspects, there's an undeniable coolness to Megalobox that cements its position among the best anime ever created.

23. Neon Genesis Evangelion

Original Anime Series Created By Hideaki Anno & Studio Gainax

Despite its controversial nature, Neon Genesis Evangelion was a groundbreaking series that revolutionized anime. While the genre of mech anime is well-established, Evangelion's approach remains distinct, even in the face of numerous imitations. Although some may dismiss it as pretentious, the series' exceptional mech/monster designs and unforgettable characters undoubtedly justify its mythical status.

Evangelion delves into the depths of depression and the psychological turmoil of living in a world teetering on the edge of collapse. Although Shinji may appear whiny at first glance, a closer examination reveals a far more nuanced portrayal than its critics acknowledge. In reality, young adults are often burdened with the weight of being the world's future and charged with the responsibility of saving the planet. Evangelion vividly showcases the psychological impact of this burden.

Teenage heroes such as Shinji, Asuka, and Rei should not be blamed for the sorry state of the world. The true culpability lies with powerful individuals like Gendo. However, it is unjust that the responsibility for fixing the mess often falls on the shoulders of these children. Each young adult exhibits a distinct response in carrying this burden. Rei remains cold and devoid of emotion, Asuka's pursuit of perfection and longing for recognition leads her to easily become angry, and Shinji's psychological well-being is shattered by his father's neglect.

Regrettably, Evangelion loses its ranking due to a finale that lacks plot development, despite its intriguing philosophical elements. It is worth noting that the final few episodes had to be rewritten to avoid unintended similarities with the 1995 sarin gas attacks, which is understandable but still worth mentioning. Additionally, Evangelion suffers from the existence of a superior version of its story in the form of the Rebuild films. Considering all these factors, Neon Genesis Evangelion should arguably have a lower ranking. However, apologies to Your Lie In April, the power of "A Cruel Angel's Thesis" cannot be denied.

Though the original Evangelion is only on Netflix, all of the Rebuild films are available with a dub on Prime Video.

22. Ouran High School Host Club

Based on the Manga Created By Bisco Hatori

Produced by Studio Bones in 2006, Ouran High School Host Club is an anime series. It revolves around Haruhi, a young woman who is trapped in a massive debt and is forced to disguise herself as a male to work for the Host Club. The series captures attention with its intriguing premise that cleverly challenges gender stereotypes. From its very first episode, Ouran had all the ingredients to become a sensation. However, it goes beyond just a compelling setup, as it expertly satirizes common anime conventions, resulting in a consistently refreshing and hilarious viewing experience.

Ouran High School Host Club should be praised for its significant influence. Although not the first anime to revolve around a woman's interactions with a group of attractive young men, it played a pivotal role in establishing the key elements that define this captivating genre. Moreover, the anime brings a thought-provoking perspective on gender and societal expectations, adding to its appeal. With all these factors considered, it is undeniable that Ouran High School Host Club rightfully secures a place among the top twenty best anime series.

21. Gurren Lagann

Original Anime Series Created By Studio Gainax

Produced by Gainax in 2007, Gurren Lagann is an anime that revolves around Simon, a young man, and his mentor Kamina. Together, they pilot the Lagann, a giant mecha, to combat the tyrannical Spiral King and his army of Beastmen. Gainax, known for its groundbreaking work in the mecha genre with Neon Genesis Evangelion, once again pushed the boundaries with Gurren Lagann. The sheer extravagance and over-the-top nature of this anime make it irresistible to fans.

Underneath its seemingly absurd exterior, Lagann unveils a profound exploration of human nature and the concept of freedom. This series has elicited such an overwhelming response from fans that it has provoked both tears of pure joy and sorrow. Furthermore, Gurren Lagann's impact on the industry extends far beyond its original 26 episodes. Many of the talented individuals who contributed to Lagann later went on to establish Studio Trigger. It comes as no surprise, then, that Lagann bears a striking resemblance to subsequent anime successes such as Kill la Kill and Little Witch Academia. Although Gurren Lagann may not hold the highest position among mech anime in this ranking, its sincerity and historical significance undeniably deem it a worthy contender for a spot in the coveted top 20.

20. Hunter x Hunter

Based on the Manga Created By Yoshihiro Togashi

Hunter x Hunter is an action-packed anime that aired from 2011 to 2014. The story revolves around a determined young boy named Gon Freces, who embarks on a journey to locate his enigmatic father, who happens to be a renowned Hunter. Throughout his adventure, Gon teams up with Kurapika, a driven individual seeking revenge for the massacre of his clan, Leorio, a medical school aspirant looking to support his education through hunting, and Killua, a fellow youngster and member of a notorious assassin family.

Hunter x Hunter stands out due to its exceptional distillation of the elements that make classic shonen battle anime so captivating. Although Gon may embody certain stereotypical qualities of a shonen hero, his infectious enthusiasm and boundless energy make him incredibly endearing. The Nen power system, far from being just another generic mechanism, is intricately constructed and nearly unparalleled within the genre. Beyond refining conventional Shonen tropes, Hunter x Hunter masterfully utilizes them to explore profound themes such as the pursuit of one's dreams and the consequences of violence. Without exaggeration, Hunter x Hunter can be deemed the epitome of shonen, solidifying its deserving rank.

Devoted followers of Hunter x Hunter might also find interest in exploring the well-known shonen series Yu Yu Hakusho, created by the same renowned author, Yoshihiro Togashi.

19. Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex

Based on the Manga Created By Masamune Shirow

The anime Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex, created by Production I.G in 2002, explores the cyberpunk genre. The series revolves around Major Makoto Kusanagi and her team from Public Security Section 9 as they investigate The Laughing Man, a mysterious cyber-terrorist. Despite not having the same historical significance as the franchise's groundbreaking 1995 film, Stand Alone Complex surpasses its movie counterpart in various ways. The television format provides the series with the opportunity to delve deeper into the characters, world, and themes of Ghost in The Shell.

One notable aspect 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 labeling system allows viewers to anticipate what to expect and facilitates easy comprehension of the story. Combining its unique structure, compelling characters, and thought-provoking themes, Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex stands out as one of the finest cyberpunk anime ever created.

18. Space Dandy

Created By Shinichiro Watanabe & Studio Bones

Although not as widely recognized as Shinichiro Watanabe's other renowned science fiction series, Space Dandy is a whimsical show with a depth of substance. The anime follows the comedic and eccentric protagonist Dandy, along with his robot sidekick QT, and their companion Meow, as they journey through space in search of undiscovered extraterrestrial species. If the series adhered to its initial premise, it would likely be a decent yet unremarkable episodic show. However, Space Dandy decides to venture into something much more peculiar and enchanting.

The noteworthy aspect of Space Dandy is that each episode exists within a slightly different continuity than the previous one. Eight years prior to Everything, Everywhere, All at Once exploring the existential trepidation of residing in a multiverse filled with limitless possibilities, Space Dandy demonstrated that multiverses could transcend being merely a cynical excuse for franchise crossovers. Consequently, the show becomes an experimental masterpiece that stretches the boundaries of animation. Space Dandy stands out as one of the finest anime solely due to its exceptional animation, but akin to the character Dandy himself, it is the genuine essence beneath the surface that elevates it to the status of an all-time classic anime.

17. Monster

Based on the Manga Created By Naoki Urasawa

Monster is a captivating anime that revolves around Kenzo Tenma, a surgeon who carries the burden of saving the life of a notorious serial killer named Johan Liebert. This gripping thriller explores Tenma's inner struggle with guilt and his relentless efforts to right the wrongs he believes he made. It is no exaggeration to say that Monster stands out as one of the finest anime series, and its story could easily rival the caliber of an HBO hit like True Detective (which almost became a live-action adaptation). However, what truly sets Monster apart is its unique essence that can only be captured through the mesmerizing animation provided by Studio Madhouse. Without the stunning visuals, the series would lose its atmospheric vibe and the unparalleled tension it creates.

16. Fruits Basket

Based on the Manga Created By Natsuki Takaya

There's a reason why Fruits Basket is considered one of the most beloved Shojo series of all time. The captivating story revolves around a young woman named Tohru who finds herself living with the Sohma family following the loss of her mother. Despite the family's internal divisions, they share a common curse that causes them to transform into one of the Chinese Zodiac animals when faced with stress. As the narrative unfolds, we witness a powerful exploration of trauma and healing, with Tohru playing a crucial role in helping the Sohmas rediscover their familial bond and create a new definition of what it truly means to be a family.

What sets Fruits Basket apart as an exceptional anime is its ability to elevate the essence of Shojo, a captivating genre. Without relying on flashy battles or action sequences, drama series like Fruits Basket place great emphasis on character development and underlying themes. Each character within the series grapples with their own unique experience of loss, leading to a comprehensive exploration of the theme of grief from myriad perspectives. As one of the most beloved Shojo series of all time, Fruits Basket undeniably deserves its place among the elite anime series ever created.

15. Mushi-Shi

Based on the Manga Created By Yuki Urushibara

An Artland production, Mushi-Shi is a captivating supernatural anime series that aired from 2005 to 2006 and later received a highly anticipated second season in 2014. The storyline revolves around Ginko, a compassionate and serene protagonist, who dedicates himself to assisting individuals in grappling with enigmatic spirits referred to as Mushi. Witnessing Ginko's unique approach to each Mushi is a constant source of delight, showcasing his profound understanding and harmonious interactions with these cryptic creatures. This seamless bond between Ginko and the Mushi exemplifies the series' profound exploration of the intricate connection between humankind and nature, making him an irreplaceable figure within the narrative.

14. Cyberpunk Edgerunners

Mushi-Shi's most notable aspect is its beautifully enchanting portrayal of Edo-era Japan. In line with its focus on nature, the series effortlessly creates an atmospheric presence that steals the show. The combination of the captivating soundtrack and art direction seamlessly blends to infuse each scene with a sense of both serene terror and awe. With its tranquil and thought-provoking ambiance, Mushi-Shi is the ideal anime to experience just before drifting off to sleep.

Based on the RPG Series Created By Mike Pondsmith

Studio Trigger's 2022 anime prequel to Cyberpunk 2077, Cyberpunk Edgerunners, revolves around David, a young man who embarks on a life of cybernetic crime following a tragic event. The series garnered immense acclaim, surpassing popular shows such as Attack on Titan and Spy x Family to claim Crunchyroll's coveted anime of the year 2022 award.

Edgerunners stands out because of how it enhances the source material. While critics found Cyberpunk 2077's Night City to be unimpressive with its blend of cyberpunk clichés, Edgerunners transforms the city into a vibrant and captivating place that feels alive. In contrast to 2077, where cybernetic enhancements are merely a means to improve stats, Edgerunners portrays them as a gruesome reminder of how far each character is willing to compromise their humanity for power. Interestingly, while 2077 faced immediate criticism upon its release, Edgerunners was received so well that it reignited interest in the game.

Nevertheless, Edgerunners' greatest strength lies in its characters. From David, Lucy, Maine, to Rebecca, each character in the series possesses their own unique beauty and tragedy. They yearn for more and deserve better, making it all the more heart-wrenching when they are forced to become monstrous in order to survive in Night City. If a list of the most emotionally affecting anime were to be compiled, Edgerunners would undoubtedly claim the top spot.

13. Odd Taxi

Original Anime Series Created By Studio OLM & Team Yoshioka

The plot of Odd Taxi revolves around Odokawa, a walrus taxi driver who becomes entangled in a complex criminal conspiracy in Tokyo. Upon its release, the series received immediate critical acclaim, and it's not hard to understand why. With its distinctive art style and clever use of animal characters, Odd Taxi stands out from the crowd. However, the true standout is Odokawa himself – a refreshingly unique anime protagonist who, despite being an overweight middle-aged man with no exceptional fighting skills or talents, captivates viewers.

Odokawa's perspective shapes the world of the anime. His laid-back attitude lends a lo-fi atmosphere to the series, offering comfort even in its most tense moments. Furthermore, the compelling mystery at the heart of the storyline elevates each episode, keeping viewers engaged and eager for the next plot development. With its unparalleled uniqueness, Odd Taxi undoubtedly deserves its high ranking among the best anime series.

12. Penguindrum

Original Anime Series Created By Kunihiko Ikuhara & Brainbase

Despite not being as well-known or influential as some of its contemporaries, Mawaru Penguindrum is highly regarded for its stunning animation and captivatingly bizarre story. At first glance, the anime follows two brothers as they strive to save their terminally ill sister, aided by three enigmatic penguins. The narrative is delightfully peculiar, interwoven with poignant moments that explore thought-provoking themes such as childhood and the psychological impact of abuse. However, beneath the surface, Penguindrum delves into the aftermath of Japan's devastating sarin gas attacks in 1995. This contextual understanding illuminates previously inexplicable aspects of the series. The recurring visual motifs resemble subway systems, while the logo features a circled 95 and a train sign, subtly alluding to the historical event. The young protagonists' lives have been shaped by their parents' extreme reactions to the tragedy, resulting in an abusive obsession to prevent further disasters. Although the circumstances may be Japan-specific, the underlying themes resonate with millennials who grew up in the shadow of 9/11. As the quintessential millennial anime, Penguindrum is an exceptionally crafted masterpiece that deserves greater recognition.

11. Dragon Ball Z

Based on the Manga Created By Akira Toriyama

Dragon Ball Z stands as one of the most influential and recognizable anime of all time for good reason. The show's protagonist, Goku, embarks on an unending journey to safeguard his friends and acquire the legendary Dragon Balls, essentially shaping the modern shonen genre as fans now know it. Countless series, ranging from Naruto and One Piece to more recent hits like My Hero Academia and Jujutsu Kaisen, owe a debt to this monumental franchise. While some contemporary anime enthusiasts may dismiss the series as mindless entertainment, such a perspective does not fully acknowledge its merits. The fights in Dragon Ball Z are captivating, infusing character development and plot progression in a manner that has yet to be surpassed in the decades since its initial release.

Goku personifies the hidden depths of Dragon Ball Z. Despite being viewed by many as a simple-minded warrior, Goku possesses subtle nuances that render him more fascinating than he is often given credit for by anime fans. Incredibly, Goku maintains unwavering kindness even towards his most formidable adversaries. A prevailing joke within the fandom asserts that a substantial portion of Goku's comrades by the conclusion of Dragon Ball Z were once his enemies, underscoring his complexity. Although Goku undoubtedly possesses immense power, a closer examination of the series reveals that it is his innate benevolence that covertly elucidates his extraordinary strength. Each time Goku attains a new Super Saiyan form, it is driven by his desire to protect his loved ones and those he holds dear. This inherent goodness elucidates why Goku consistently remains one step ahead of his rival Vegeta. Within the contemporary anime landscape, these attributes might not appear particularly unique; however, during the anime's initial release, they represented an absolute revelation.

Unfortunately, Dragon Ball Z falls short as it is a mere imitation of the original manga. The anime adaptation plays it safe by rarely utilizing animation's unique strengths to enhance the storytelling. While there are a few noteworthy additions unique to the anime, such as Piccolo's driving test, they are few and far between. Additionally, the anime introduces pacing issues that were not present in the manga. This does not make the anime series bad, but when compared to Akira Toriyama's original masterpiece, it is no competition. Nonetheless, Dragon Ball Z should be commended for its status as one of the greatest action anime of all time and its groundbreaking impact on the history of anime.

For fans seeking a more streamlined Dragon Ball Z experience, Dragon Ball Kai, a re-edited series currently available on Hulu, is recommended.

Editor's P/S

1. Fist of the North Star

Fist of the North Star is a classic anime series that is still beloved by fans today. The series is set in a post-nuclear apocalypse world and follows the story of Kenshiro, a martial artist who battles warlords and bandits. The series is known for its violence and gore, but it also has a strong sense of justice and morality. Fist of the North Star was a major influence on many other anime series, and it is still considered to be one of the best anime series of all time.

2. Death Note

Death Note is a psychological thriller anime series that follows the story of Light Yagami, a high school student who finds a notebook that allows him to kill anyone whose name he writes in it. Light uses the notebook to kill criminals, but he soon becomes corrupted by the power and begins to kill innocent people. Death Note is a complex and thought-provoking series that explores the themes of justice, morality, and the nature of good and evil. The series is also known for its stylish animation and suspenseful storytelling.