Anime's popularity has surged in the West in recent years, thanks to streaming platforms like Crunchyroll and Netflix, which have introduced viewers to numerous hidden gems within the medium. This includes classic
anime series
that, despite their immense popularity in Japan, were not originally broadcast in the West.
However, the vast selection of anime available today can feel overwhelming, with new series being introduced every anime season.
Nevertheless, the
best anime series of all time
remain timeless and continue to inspire countless others even years after their initial debut.
According to Game Rant, here is a list of the
top anime series
that have endured the test of time and represent some of the finest offerings within the medium.
15 Best Anime Series of All Time
Dragon Ball | MyAnimeList Score: 8.17 (Dragon Ball Z)
Few intellectual properties can rival the longevity of Akira Toriyama's Dragon Ball, which has maintained its popularity for nearly four decades. Despite some lulls, such as the 18-year gap between Dragon Ball Z and Dragon Ball Super, and not every arc or episode being of the highest quality, the franchise remains hugely popular in both Japan and the West.
At its peak, Dragon Ball stands out as one of the most entertaining
anime series, with a significant impact on popularising anime in the West. Many consider Dragon Ball one of the most important anime series ever made, attributed to its compelling storylines, memorable villains, and thrilling action scenes. Combining these factors, Dragon Ball is often argued to be among the
best anime series
of all time, if not the very best.
One Piece | MyAnimeList Score: 8.71
One Piece took a bit longer to gain traction in the West compared to some other notable Shonen anime series. However, once it did, it consistently captivated Western audiences. Similarly, One Piece has enjoyed enduring popularity in Japan, with multiple generations growing up with this beloved manga and anime series.
The manga holds a Guinness World Record for the highest number of copies published by a single author and was the best-selling manga for eleven consecutive years from 2008 to 2018. The anime adaptation has also been incredibly successful and has remained faithful to the source material, with only occasional minor deviations, much to the delight of fans of the series.
Neon Genesis Evangelion | MyAnimeList Score: 8.35
Mecha anime gained popularity in the sixties and seventies, but it wasn't until the nineties that the genre truly exploded. Throughout the decade, numerous impressive mecha anime series were introduced, but none have matched the enduring popularity of Hideaki Anno's Neon Genesis Evangelion and its various spin-offs and big-screen adaptations.
Featuring intricately crafted storylines and breathtaking set-piece battles, the series packed a lot into its initial 26-episode run and remains highly acclaimed today. Subsequent adaptations have also been excellent, though determining the optimal viewing order can be challenging and has sparked spirited debates among Evangelion fans over the years.
Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood | MyAnimeList Score: 9.09
When it comes to anime adaptations, Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood stands out for its exceptional faithfulness to the manga. Across its 64 episodes, it remains remarkably true to the original source material in terms of storyline and visual style. While there is some filler content, it never disrupts the narrative flow.
The relationship between Edward and Alphonse is a highlight of the series, closely followed by its intricate plot and unexpected twists. Following the mixed reception of the original series, most Fullmetal Alchemist fans were thrilled with Brotherhood's fidelity to the source material and appreciated the studio's responsiveness to earlier criticism regarding changes.
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Cowboy Bebop | MyAnimeList Score: 8.75
Cowboy Bebop is often revered, and while it may not be flawless, its impact on the anime medium cannot be ignored. It has influenced numerous anime, manga, Western films, and television shows over the years.
At its core, Cowboy Bebop is a neo-noir sci-fi series following the adventures of a group of bounty hunters in outer space. Its impressive blend of multiple genres contributes significantly to its esteemed reputation among fans. While it may not claim the title of the best anime series of all time, it certainly ranks among the top.
Pokemon | MyAnimeList Score: 7.38
Pokemon made a monumental impact when it burst onto the scene in the mid-to-late nineties, captivating audiences worldwide with its trading card game, video games, and anime. Initially viewed as a marketing tool for the wider Pokemon franchise, the anime evolved over time into one of the greatest series of all time.
While it may appear superficial on the surface, the Pokemon anime has delved into a diverse range of themes and ideas over its more than quarter-century run, offering viewers intriguing perspectives and positive life messages. Its enduring popularity spans multiple generations, with millions of viewers growing up watching the beloved creature-collecting series.
Jojo's Bizarre Adventure | MyAnimeList Score: 7.88
It's challenging to pinpoint a single volume of Jojo's Bizarre Adventure because they are all exceptional. When fans of the popular seinen manga learned about the decision to create an anime adaptation to commemorate the series' 25th anniversary, there was some apprehension. However, the resulting series has proven to be just as impressive as the source material and has introduced the world of JoJo to a new generation of viewers.
The first five seasons of the show encompass the first six parts of the manga, suggesting that there are likely at least two more seasons to come. Following the conclusion of Stone Ocean, fans can anticipate adaptations of Steel Ball Run and Jojolion. By that time, JOJOLANDS may also be released and approaching its climax, potentially allowing both the show and the long-running manga to conclude around the same time.
Naruto: Shippuden | MyAnimeList Score: 8.26
Similar to Dragon Ball, Naruto originated in the pages of the Japanese publication Weekly Shōnen Jump. After its successful debut in 1999, it was adapted into an anime in late 2002. The resulting series comprised 220 episodes, with the first 135 following the initial part of the manga and the remainder featuring an original storyline based on unused plot elements from creator Masashi Kishimoto's concepts.
The series explores various themes and incorporates elements from Asian mythology. However, at its core, it chronicles the journey of a young boy aspiring to become the leader of his village and ultimately one of the greatest ninjas of all time. For those seeking more, Boruto continues the narrative with Naruto's son in the same world, though many fans argue that the original series is more compelling.
Death Note | MyAnimeList Score: 8.62
Like Sword Art Online and the Fate series, Death Note is often considered a gateway anime, drawing new viewers into the medium. Despite this, seasoned anime fans sometimes criticise its plot and point to other supposedly superior shows. Nevertheless, there's a compelling reason why Death Note is recommended to newcomers exploring anime for the first time.
For better or worse, Death Note is highly accessible, featuring an easy-to-follow plot and a captivating cast of characters. The intellectual battle between Light and L in the initial part of the anime is enthralling and unpredictable. While it does incorporate some anime tropes, Death Note is less exaggerated compared to many other series of its time, making it appealing to a broader audience demographic.
Demon Slayer | MyAnimeList Score: 8.48
Despite being relatively new, Demon Slayer deserves recognition among the best anime series of all time. In just six years since its creation, it has generated around $10 billion in revenue, rivalling established media franchises like Thomas the Tank Engine and Sesame Street, which have been around for over half a century.
Demon Slayer's phenomenal success can be attributed to its compelling plot, intriguing characters, and outstanding animation that vividly brings the source material to life. With more content on the horizon, the series continues to ascend in commercial success and critical acclaim, promising even greater achievements in the future.
Slam Dunk | MyAnimeList Score: 8.55
While the anime adaptation of Slam Dunk didn't achieve the same level of success as the best-selling manga, it remains a well-crafted series and essential viewing for serious sports anime enthusiasts. The story follows Hanamichi Sakuragi, a delinquent high schooler who takes up basketball to impress a girl.
As Sakuragi discovers his natural athletic ability and basketball talent, he joins forces with other misfits and oddballs to elevate the Shohoku basketball team into one of Japan's top teams. With Sakuragi as their unstoppable power forward, they set their sights on winning the national championship.
Attack on Titan | MyAnimeList Score: 9.05 (Attack on Titan Season 3 Part 2)
Despite its increasingly complex plot, Attack on Titan remains a compelling anime with an excellent cast of characters and intriguing storylines. The visuals are outstanding; however, viewers sensitive to violence should be cautious as the series is gritty and gory from the start.
The narrative revolves around Eren Jaeger, living in a world where humanity faces extinction from giant human-eating creatures called Titans. After witnessing his hometown's destruction and his mother's death, Eren joins the Survey Corps with a vow to eradicate Titans. As the story progresses, new layers of complexity emerge, adding depth to the plot.
Steins;Gate | MyAnimeList Score: 9.07
Steins;Gate, one of the most popular visual novel games, was a natural choice for adaptation into a manga and later an anime by 5pb. The anime debuted about two years after the game's release, introducing Rintaro and Kurisu to a new audience of psychological thriller enthusiasts.
While faithfully following the game's storyline, many consider the Steins;Gate anime the definitive way to experience this science fiction narrative, evident from its nearly flawless user ratings online. For those craving more, the Steins;Gate 0 anime, released in 2018, continues the original series' story.
Vinland Saga | MyAnimeList Score: 8.80 (Vinland Saga Season 2)
Vinland Saga is adapted from the acclaimed historical manga series of the same name, following Icelandic explorer Thorfinn Karlsefni on his journey to discover Vinland, a legendary coastal region. As Thorfinn's expedition unfolds, the narrative delves into weighty themes like slavery, war, and betrayal.
While many successful anime series thrive on expansive casts of characters, Vinland Saga is primarily Thorfinn's story. Although other notable characters are introduced, it is Thorfinn's personal growth that truly captivates viewers and drives the anime's compelling narrative.
Fruits Basket | MyAnimeList Score: 8.99 (Fruits Basket: The Final)
Like many exceptional anime series, Fruits Basket originated as a manga in 1998 before receiving its initial anime adaptation in 2001. However, the series' second adaptation, which premiered almost two decades later in 2019, is widely regarded as the definitive rendition of this captivating genre-blending story.
The narrative revolves around Tohru, a young orphan taken in by the enigmatic Sohma family. Despite their outward appearances, the Sohmas harbour a startling secret that only manifests under specific circ*mstances. This captivating blend of romance and drama solidifies Fruits Basket as one of the finest shojo anime series and a must-watch for fans of the genre.
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