20 Greatest Anime Series Of All Time
Are you ready to explore the world of anime? Today, we will dive into the 20 Greatest Anime Series of All Time, and discuss what makes these shows so special. From epic adventures to heartwarming dramas, each of these anime series has captured the hearts and imaginations of audiences around the world.
We’ll explore the incredible stories and characters that have made these shows so beloved, and delve into the cultural impact that they’ve had. Whether you’re a die-hard anime fan or new to the genre, there’s something on this list for everyone. So buckle up and get ready to discover some of the greatest anime series of all time!
Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood
Two brothers use alchemy to search for the Philosopher’s Stone, hoping to restore their bodies and uncover the truth behind their past.
Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood is an anime series that tells the epic story of brothers Edward and Alphonse Elric, who use alchemy to search for the Philosopher’s Stone and restore their bodies after a failed attempt to revive their deceased mother. Along the way, they uncover a vast conspiracy that threatens their entire world, and must fight against powerful enemies and impossible odds to set things right. With its complex characters, intricate world-building, and thrilling action, Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood is a masterpiece of storytelling that has captivated audiences around the world.
Audiences have been blown away by Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood’s incredible story, unforgettable characters, and stunning animation. The series has been praised for its strong themes of family, sacrifice, and redemption, as well as its willingness to tackle dark and difficult subject matter. It has won numerous awards and accolades, including being voted the #1 anime series of all time by readers of the Japanese magazine Animage. Fans have praised the show’s ability to balance action and drama, as well as its intricate plotting and emotional depth. Overall, Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood is a must-see anime series that has earned its place as one of the greatest of all time.
Death Note
A high school student finds a supernatural notebook that can kill anyone whose name is written in it, and uses it to try to create a better world.
Death Note is an anime series that tells the thrilling story of a high school student named Light Yagami, who discovers a mysterious notebook that grants him the power to kill anyone whose name he writes in it. As he sets out to rid the world of criminals and create a utopian society, he is pursued by a genius detective named L, who is determined to bring him to justice. The battle of wits between Light and L is at the heart of the series, as both characters engage in a deadly game of cat and mouse that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
Audiences have been enthralled by Death Note’s intense psychological drama, intricate plotting, and dynamic characters. The series has been praised for its thought-provoking themes of justice, morality, and power, as well as its stunning animation and memorable soundtrack. It has become a cultural phenomenon, spawning multiple adaptations and spin-offs in various media. Fans have praised the series for its ability to keep them guessing until the very end, and for its exploration of complex ethical questions. Overall, Death Note is a must-watch anime series that has earned its place as one of the greatest of all time.
Attack on Titan
Humanity must fight against giant humanoid creatures known as Titans in order to survive and reclaim their world.
Attack on Titan is an anime series that takes place in a world where humanity is on the brink of extinction, threatened by giant humanoid creatures known as Titans. The story follows Eren Yeager and his friends, who join the military to fight against the Titans and uncover the secrets of their origin. As they face danger and betrayal from all sides, they discover that the Titans may be linked to their own past in ways they never imagined.
Audiences have been captivated by Attack on Titan’s thrilling action, dark and mature themes, and intricate world-building. The series has been praised for its stunning animation, powerful storytelling, and complex characters. It has become a massive cultural phenomenon, with fans around the world eagerly awaiting each new episode and season.
The series has won numerous awards and accolades, and has been hailed as a masterpiece of modern anime. Fans have praised the series for its ability to blend heart-pumping action with deep character development, and for its exploration of themes like the horrors of war, the nature of humanity, and the value of sacrifice. Overall, Attack on Titan is a must-see anime series that has earned its place as one of the greatest of all time.
Naruto
A young ninja dreams of becoming the strongest in his village, as he navigates political intrigue and battles powerful foes.
Naruto is an anime series that tells the epic story of a young ninja named Naruto Uzumaki, who dreams of becoming the strongest ninja in his village and earning the respect of his peers. As he trains and grows stronger, he discovers that he is the vessel for a powerful demon fox that nearly destroyed the village years ago. With the help of his friends and teachers, Naruto sets out to prove himself and protect his home from the forces that threaten it.
Audiences have been drawn in by Naruto’s thrilling action, lovable characters, and emotional storytelling. The series has become a cultural phenomenon, with fans around the world embracing Naruto’s message of never giving up on your dreams and standing up for what’s right. It has won numerous awards and accolades, and has spawned multiple adaptations and spin-offs in various media.
Fans have praised the series for its complex characters, intricate world-building, and powerful themes of friendship, perseverance, and redemption. Overall, Naruto is a must-watch anime series that has earned its place as one of the greatest of all time.
Cowboy Bebop
A group of bounty hunters travel through space on the spaceship Bebop, encountering all sorts of adventures and danger along the way.
Cowboy Bebop is an anime series that follows the adventures of a group of bounty hunters traveling through space aboard their spaceship, the Bebop. The crew consists of the stoic Spike Spiegel, the sassy Faye Valentine, the tough-as-nails Jet Black, elite hacker prodigy Ed, and the hyper-intelligent Welsh Corgi named Ein. As they pursue bounties and confront their own pasts, they find themselves drawn into a web of danger and intrigue that threatens their very existence.
Audiences have been entranced by Cowboy Bebop’s unique blend of sci-fi, action, and film noir elements. The series has been praised for its stylish animation, memorable characters, and groundbreaking soundtrack, which fuses jazz, blues, and other musical genres to create a one-of-a-kind experience. It has become a cult classic among fans, who have praised its mature storytelling, complex themes, and ability to create a fully-realized world that feels both familiar and otherworldly.
Cowboy Bebop has been hailed as a masterpiece of anime, winning multiple awards and accolades, and inspiring countless imitators and homages. Overall, Cowboy Bebop is a must-see anime series that has earned its place as one of the greatest of all time.
Dragon Ball Z
The adventures of Goku, a warrior who defends Earth against all manner of powerful foes, including aliens and evil androids.
Dragon Ball Z is an anime series that follows the adventures of Goku, a powerful warrior who defends the Earth against a series of increasingly powerful threats. Along with his friends and family, Goku battles against aliens, androids, and other villains, using his incredible strength and fighting skills to save the world time and again.
Audiences have been captivated by Dragon Ball Z’s action-packed battles, lovable characters, and epic storylines. The series has become a cultural icon, inspiring countless imitators and spin-offs, as well as a legion of dedicated fans. It has been praised for its vibrant animation, memorable characters, and ability to balance intense action with heartfelt character moments.
Dragon Ball Z has been credited with helping to popularize anime in the West, and has become a fixture of popular culture, with references and homages appearing in everything from music videos to video games. Overall, Dragon Ball Z is a must-watch anime series that has earned its place as one of the greatest of all time, and continues to inspire and entertain fans around the world.
One Piece
A young pirate captain and his crew search for the ultimate treasure, the One Piece, as they battle other pirates and the world government.
One Piece is an anime series that tells the story of Monkey D. Luffy, a young pirate who dreams of finding the legendary One Piece treasure and becoming the King of the Pirates. Along with his eccentric crew of fellow pirates, Luffy sails the Grand Line, battling rival crews and powerful foes, and uncovering the secrets of the world as he goes.
Audiences have been enthralled by One Piece’s epic scope, colorful characters, and inventive world-building. The series has become a cultural phenomenon, with fans around the world drawn in by its blend of humor, action, and heartfelt storytelling. It has set numerous records in Japan and abroad, becoming the best-selling manga series of all time, and winning numerous awards and accolades.
Fans have praised the series for its strong themes of friendship, perseverance, and following one’s dreams, as well as its ability to balance intense action with moments of heartwarming emotion. Overall, One Piece is a must-watch anime series that has earned its place as one of the greatest of all time, and continues to inspire and entertain fans with its boundless sense of adventure and wonder.
Bleach
Ichigo Kurosaki, a teenager with the ability to see ghosts, becomes a Soul Reaper and protects the living world from evil spirits and monsters known as Hollows.
Bleach is an anime series that follows the adventures of Ichigo Kurosaki, a teenager with the ability to see ghosts. When he is recruited to become a Soul Reaper, tasked with protecting the living world from malevolent spirits known as Hollows, Ichigo finds himself drawn into a world of danger and intrigue that he never imagined.
Audiences have been drawn to Bleach’s unique blend of supernatural action and teen drama, as well as its memorable cast of characters and imaginative world-building. The series has been praised for its stylish animation, thrilling battles, and complex storylines, which explore themes of power, destiny, and the struggle between life and death. It has become a fan favorite, with dedicated followers drawn to its mix of humor, heart, and high-stakes action.
Bleach has also inspired multiple spin-off series, films, and video games, cementing its place as one of the most beloved anime franchises of all time. Overall, Bleach is a must-watch series that has earned its place as one of the greatest anime of all time, and continues to inspire and entertain fans with its thrilling supernatural adventures and unforgettable characters.
Neon Genesis Evangelion
A teenage boy pilots a giant bio-machine to battle mysterious monsters known as Angels, as he grapples with personal issues and the fate of humanity.
Neon Genesis Evangelion is a groundbreaking anime series that has captivated audiences since its debut in 1995. Set in a post-apocalyptic world where humanity is threatened by monstrous beings known as Angels, the series follows Shinji Ikari, a reluctant teenager who is recruited to pilot a giant bio-machine known as an Evangelion. As Shinji battles the Angels and struggles to come to terms with his own inner demons, the series explores complex themes of identity, existentialism, and the nature of human connection.
Audiences have been drawn to Evangelion’s stunning animation, intense action, and gripping character drama. The series has been praised for its psychological depth and emotional resonance, as well as its bold experimentation with genre conventions and visual storytelling techniques. It has inspired a dedicated fanbase, who have engaged in passionate discussions and debates about the series’ themes and symbolism.
Evangelion has also been the subject of numerous spin-offs, adaptations, and merchandise, cementing its place as a cultural touchstone of anime and science fiction. Overall, Neon Genesis Evangelion is a must-watch series that has earned its place as one of the greatest anime of all time, and continues to inspire and challenge audiences with its visionary storytelling and unforgettable characters.
Sailor Moon
A group of teenage girls transform into magical warriors to fight against evil forces threatening the world, while also navigating their daily lives.
Sailor Moon is an iconic anime series that has captured the hearts of audiences around the world. The series follows the adventures of Usagi Tsukino, a teenage girl who discovers that she is the reincarnation of the legendary warrior Sailor Moon. Along with her fellow Sailor Scouts, Usagi fights against evil forces that threaten the safety of the Earth, all while navigating the challenges of adolescence and relationships.
Audiences have been drawn to Sailor Moon’s mix of action, humor, and heart, as well as its positive messages about friendship, empowerment, and self-acceptance. The series has been praised for its iconic character designs, memorable music, and engaging storylines, which blend science fiction, fantasy, and romance. Sailor Moon has become a cultural phenomenon, inspiring merchandise, cosplay, and even a successful stage musical.
It has also been credited with introducing a new generation of viewers to anime and manga, and has helped to popularize the magical girl genre. Overall, Sailor Moon is a beloved classic that has earned its place as one of the greatest anime of all time, and continues to inspire and entertain audiences with its magical adventures and inspiring characters.
Code Geass
In a world dominated by two superpowers, a young prince uses his intelligence and a powerful mecha to fight for his country’s independence.
Code Geass is an exhilarating anime series that has captivated audiences with its blend of intense action, political intrigue, and philosophical themes. The series is set in an alternate version of Earth, where the Holy Empire of Britannia has conquered Japan and renamed it Area 11. The story follows Lelouch, a former prince of Britannia who obtains a powerful supernatural ability known as Geass. With this power, Lelouch embarks on a quest to overthrow the empire and create a better world for his sister and his friends.
Audiences have been drawn to Code Geass’s gripping storylines, complex characters, and thought-provoking themes, which explore topics such as morality, justice, and the nature of power. The series has been praised for its dynamic animation, thrilling action sequences, and masterful storytelling, all of which combine to create a truly unforgettable viewing experience. Code Geass has also inspired a dedicated fanbase, who have embraced its iconic characters, deep lore, and philosophical concepts.
The series has won numerous awards and accolades, and has been credited with helping to redefine the mecha genre of anime. Overall, Code Geass is an epic and thought-provoking anime series that has earned its place as one of the greatest of all time, and continues to inspire and captivate audiences with its thrilling storylines, unforgettable characters, and powerful themes.
Hunter x Hunter
A young boy sets out to become a Hunter, a skilled adventurer who must pass difficult tests and face dangerous challenges to succeed.
Hunter x Hunter is an action-packed and exhilarating anime series that has captivated audiences with its intricate world-building, complex characters, and thrilling storylines. The series follows the adventures of Gon Freecss, a young boy who sets out to become a Hunter, a skilled adventurer who seeks out rare treasures, exotic creatures, and dangerous criminals.
As Gon navigates the challenges of the Hunter Exam and discovers the secrets of his mysterious past, he forms friendships with other Hunters, including the cunning and enigmatic Killua, the noble and honorable Kurapika, and the cheerful and energetic Leorio. Together, they face deadly foes, explore hidden realms, and uncover dark conspiracies that threaten to tear their world apart.
Audiences have been drawn to Hunter x Hunter’s richly detailed world, its vividly realized characters, and its thrilling action sequences, which blend traditional martial arts with supernatural powers and high-tech gadgets. The series has been praised for its masterful storytelling, its thought-provoking themes, and its unique blend of humor, drama, and suspense.
Hunter x Hunter has also inspired a dedicated fanbase, who have embraced its iconic characters, deep lore, and intricate plotlines. The series has won numerous awards and accolades, and has been praised for its innovative approach to storytelling and world-building. Overall, Hunter x Hunter is a must-watch anime series that has earned its place as one of the greatest of all time, and continues to inspire and captivate audiences with its thrilling adventures, complex characters, and profound themes.
JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure
The adventures of the Joestar family, who battle supernatural threats and use their unique abilities to fight for justice.
JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure is a wild and inventive anime series that has become a cult classic among fans of the medium. The series follows the Joestar family, a line of heroes who possess extraordinary powers and battle supernatural threats across generations.
From the Victorian era to the present day, the Joestars confront bizarre and often absurd enemies, ranging from ancient vampires to menacing robots. The series is known for its over-the-top action sequences, intricate plotlines, and iconic character designs, which often feature flamboyant fashion choices and unique personalities.
Audiences have been captivated by JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure’s unique blend of humor, horror, and action, as well as its intricate world-building and character development. The series has been praised for its distinctive art style, which combines traditional manga aesthetics with bold, colorful designs.
JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure has also inspired a passionate and dedicated fanbase, who have embraced its eccentric characters, intricate lore, and unconventional storytelling. The series has spawned numerous video games, spin-off manga, and even a live-action movie adaptation.
Overall, JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure is a one-of-a-kind anime series that has earned its place as a beloved classic, and continues to captivate audiences with its bold creativity, thrilling action, and unforgettable characters.
My Hero Academia
In a world where most people have superpowers, a young boy without powers strives to become a hero and defend the innocent.
My Hero Academia is an action-packed, heartwarming anime series that follows the journey of a young boy named Izuku Midoriya, who dreams of becoming a superhero despite being born without any powers in a world where almost everyone has superhuman abilities.
After encountering his idol, the number one hero All Might, Izuku is given the opportunity to attend a prestigious high school for aspiring heroes and to learn how to harness his innate courage, intelligence, and determination to become the hero he always wanted to be.
Throughout the series, Izuku and his classmates face a wide variety of challenges, from battling villains and competing in intense training exercises to dealing with personal struggles and emotional setbacks. But with the help of his friends and mentors, Izuku never gives up on his quest to become the greatest hero of all time.
My Hero Academia has been praised by audiences for its captivating storytelling, likable characters, impressive animation, and inspiring messages about the power of perseverance and teamwork. It has garnered a large and devoted fanbase around the world and has been hailed as one of the best anime series of recent years.
One Punch Man
A hero who can defeat any foe with a single punch becomes bored with his life of easy victories and seeks out stronger opponents.
One Punch Man is an exhilarating, hilarious anime series that tells the story of Saitama, a seemingly ordinary guy who became a superhero for fun and ended up becoming the most powerful being on the planet.
Despite his incredible strength, Saitama struggles with the mundanity of his daily life and yearns for a challenge that can truly test his abilities. Along the way, he befriends a colorful cast of characters, including the cyborg Genos, and the hero association’s top-ranked heroes.
The series is known for its high-octane action scenes, stunning animation, and clever humor. It also explores deeper themes such as the price of fame and the importance of finding meaning in life.
One Punch Man has received widespread acclaim from audiences and critics alike. It has been praised for its unique take on the superhero genre, its clever satire of anime tropes, and its stunning visuals. The series has developed a large and devoted following around the world, with fans eagerly anticipating each new episode and season. Overall, One Punch Man is a must-watch for anyone who loves action, humor, and a good underdog story.
Steins;Gate
A group of friends use a time machine to try to change the past and avoid a terrible future, but quickly discover the consequences of altering time.
Steins;Gate is a mind-bending, thrilling anime series that follows the adventures of a group of eccentric scientists who discover a way to send text messages back in time. What starts as a fun experiment quickly turns into a dangerous game of cat and mouse as they realize that their actions in the past can have catastrophic consequences in the present.
The series explores complex themes such as time travel, fate, and the consequences of our actions, while also delivering an intense, emotional narrative that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. The characters are engaging and well-developed, each with their own quirks and flaws that make them feel real and relatable.
Steins;Gate has received widespread critical acclaim for its masterful storytelling, rich character development, and stunning visuals. It has been praised for its clever use of time travel as a plot device, as well as its deep exploration of the ethical implications of altering the course of history. The series has developed a dedicated fanbase around the world, with fans eagerly awaiting each new episode and season.
Overall, Steins;Gate is a must-watch for anyone who loves science fiction, suspense, and a good mystery. It’s a thrilling ride that will keep you guessing until the very end.
Haikyuu!!
A high school volleyball team aims to become the best in Japan, as they face off against other talented teams and overcome their own weaknesses.
Haikyuu!! is an adrenaline-fueled, action-packed anime series that follows the journey of a high school volleyball team as they strive to become the best in the country. The series centers around Shoyo Hinata, a young athlete with a natural talent for volleyball who dreams of leading his team to victory in the national championship.
Along the way, Hinata and his teammates face a variety of challenges, from fierce opponents and tough training regimens to personal struggles and setbacks. But with their determination, teamwork, and love for the game, they refuse to give up on their dreams.
The series is known for its fast-paced, high-energy gameplay, its dynamic characters, and its emotional storytelling. It captures the intensity and passion of competitive sports while also exploring deeper themes such as friendship, perseverance, and the value of hard work.
Haikyuu!! has received widespread critical acclaim and has developed a passionate fanbase around the world. It has been praised for its stunning animation, engaging characters, and realistic portrayal of the sport of volleyball. The series has even inspired many people to take up the sport themselves, with volleyball clubs and teams popping up in schools and communities everywhere.
Overall, Haikyuu!! is a must-watch for anyone who loves sports, action, and a good underdog story. It’s an inspiring and exhilarating ride that will leave you cheering for the team until the very end.
Your Lie in April
A former pianist with a traumatic past is inspired to start playing music again by a talented violinist, and discovers new meaning in life.
Your Lie in April is a heart-wrenching, emotional anime series that tells the story of a young piano prodigy named Kosei Arima, who lost his ability to hear the sound of his own playing after the death of his abusive mother. Despite his love for music, Kosei is unable to find joy in playing until he meets a free-spirited violinist named Kaori Miyazono, who changes his life forever.
The series explores themes such as grief, love, and the healing power of music, as Kosei and Kaori navigate their way through the ups and downs of their tumultuous relationship. Along the way, they encounter a variety of talented musicians, each with their own unique stories and struggles.
Your Lie in April is known for its beautiful animation, stunning music, and powerful storytelling. It captures the essence of classical music in a way that is both accessible and engaging, and its characters are well-developed and relatable. The series has become a beloved favorite among anime fans, who have been moved by its emotional depth and artistic beauty.
Overall, Your Lie in April is a must-watch for anyone who loves music, romance, and a good tearjerker. It’s a beautiful and moving series that will stay with you long after the final notes have faded away.
Full Metal Panic!
A teenage soldier must balance his duties as a mecha pilot and his undercover mission to protect a high school girl from danger.
Full Metal Panic! is a thrilling, action-packed anime series that tells the story of Sousuke Sagara, a skilled soldier tasked with protecting a high school girl named Kaname Chidori, who possesses a unique ability sought after by various organizations.
As Sousuke struggles to adapt to civilian life and keep Kaname safe from danger, he must also navigate the complex relationships and challenges of high school, all while battling against powerful enemies and uncovering the mysteries surrounding Kaname’s past.
The series is known for its intense action scenes, intricate plot, and compelling characters. It combines elements of science fiction, comedy, and romance to create a unique and engaging story that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats.
Full Metal Panic! has been well-received by audiences and critics alike. It has been praised for its clever blend of genres, its stunning animation, and its likable characters. The series has developed a dedicated fanbase around the world, with fans eagerly anticipating each new season and spin-off.
Overall, Full Metal Panic! is a must-watch for anyone who loves action, science fiction, and a good dose of humor. It’s a thrilling ride that will keep you hooked from beginning to end.
Sword Art Online
Players of a virtual reality game become trapped in the world and must fight to survive and clear the game, while also facing personal challenges and relationships.
Sword Art Online is an epic adventure anime series that transports viewers into a stunning virtual world where players must fight for their lives in a deadly game.
The series follows Kirito, a skilled gamer who is among the first to enter the game’s virtual reality world, where players use their minds to control their avatars. However, when the game’s creator traps the players inside, they are forced to fight their way to the top of the game’s hundred floors, battling powerful monsters and rival players along the way.
As Kirito navigates his way through the dangerous virtual world, he forms powerful alliances and romantic connections with other players, all while uncovering the dark secrets behind the game’s creation.
Sword Art Online is known for its stunning animation, intricate world-building, and thrilling action sequences. It has captivated audiences around the world, spawning numerous spin-offs and adaptations in various media formats.
The series has been met with mixed reviews, with some critics praising its engaging storytelling and immersive world-building, while others have criticized its character development and romantic subplots. Nevertheless, it has developed a passionate fanbase, with viewers eagerly awaiting each new season and installment.
Overall, Sword Art Online is a must-watch for anyone who loves action, adventure, and immersive virtual worlds. It’s a thrilling ride that will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.
Final Thoughts
As we come to the end of our discussion on the 20 Greatest Anime Series of All Time, it’s clear that these shows have left an indelible mark on the world of anime and popular culture as a whole. From the epic battles and powerful emotions of Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood, to the mind-bending twists and turns of Death Note, these anime series have captured our imaginations and inspired us in countless ways.
Each show on this list has its own unique strengths and appeal, and together they form a rich tapestry of storytelling and creativity. Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to the genre, these anime series are essential viewing that should not be missed. So let’s celebrate the enduring legacy of these amazing shows, and look forward to the next generation of anime classics yet to come!