20 Best Isekai Anime of All Time

Summary

• The isekai The genre offers a wide range of narrative possibilities, from deep political thrillers to wild comedies, which makes it incredibly appealing.

• The best isekai Anime stand out by transcending tired tropes and adding something new to the genre.

• Unique and refreshing shows like Re: Zero And That time I got reincarnated as a slime challenge typical isekai Conventions, offer a more serious and strategic approach to the genre.

With how many great shows and movies fall into the genre, rank The best isekai anime Of all times has become quite a difficult task in modern years. Isekai is one of the most popular genres of anime, involving a protagonist from the real world who is transported to an alternate dimension. Despite a large amount of new entries failing to be more than just uninteresting power fantasies, there are a variety of isekai anime that transcend tired tropes.

The beauty of the isekai genre is that it contains the potential to tell almost any type of story imaginable. An isekai anime can be a deep political thriller with various fantasy kingdoms fighting for world domination, or it can be an absurdist comedy. Lampooning typical fantasy tropes.

This means that a list of The best iseki of all time will encompass a selection of vastly different stories, but this is a testament to the broad appeal of Isekai’s central premise.

20

Campfire Cooking in Another World with My Wild Skills (2023)

Based on the light novels by Ren Eguchi and produced by MAPPA

Mukouda Tsuyoshi joins the ranks of the best chefs in anime when he is mistakenly transported to a fantasy kingdom. Rather than join the heroes’ party, Mukouda makes a living with his one special ability: buying food from the ground to cook with. Fans Enjoy watching Mukouda become happier and more successful with his new venture than he was in the modern world: He’s too shy and humble for the action-hero life to suit him, either. Just as popular are his answer to an adventuring party: the group of familiars who adore his food and follow him faithfully, making up for his lack of combat skills in a hostile world.

While the series is not necessarily breaking new ground, Campfire cooking Peaceful tone and focus on cooking are more than enough to make the series memorable. Isekai has always been about escaping into a new world, so seeing Mukouda living his dream with a group of ​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​uco, monster-related friends in the world is about escaping into a new world for Mukouda.

19

I’m in Love with the Wild (2023)

Anime Series by Platinum Vision; Based on the light novel by Inori

Platinum Vision I am in love with the villainess Begins with the typical setup of a “reincarnated in a otome Game” story with the protagonist, Rei Ohashi, reincarnating into Rae Taylor, the protagonist of her favorite otome game, Revolution. Unlike his contemporaries, however, Rae is openly gay and has no interest in Revolutions canonical male love interestsInstead seek a relationship with the villain of the story, Claire François.

Although the series doesn’t have much going for it in terms of visuals, I am in love with the villainess‘ Humorous take on a notebook of these isekai Genre, combined with thoughtful and heartfelt discussions of LGBTQ+ issues, still helps it stand out in the crowd And make it fun to watch from start to finish. It does a great job of breaking these down isekai Mold in a meaningful way, and no fan of isekai or LGBTQ+ content is sure to love it.

18

KonoSuba (2016)

Based on the web novel by Natsume Akatsuki

Death is nothing like Kazuma Satou imagined: he is met by the goddess Aqua, who offers him the opportunity to reincarnate in a fantasy world with the destiny of saving it. Kazuma agrees, dragging Aqua in along with him! Konosuba has gathered a loyal fan base for its parody approach to the genreMaking fun of common isekai tropes far more than it plays them straight.

For example, rather than a revered prophetic hero and his noble magic-wielding companion, Kazuma is usually just the butt of everyone’s jokes and Aqua is more likely to make fun of someone than help them out.

17

The Vision Of Escaflone ​​(1996)

Original series written by Shoji Kawamori, directed by Kazuki Akane and produced by Sunrise Studios

Hitomi Kanzaki never paid much attention to her occasional visions of the future… until a vision that shows her life upside down through a dragon slaying print. Transported to the world of Gaea alongside Prince Wan, Hitomi must help him learn the secrets of the Guymelef Mecca. Escaflowne became one of the hits of the nineties for its thrilling story, beautiful animation, and above all, top-notch execution of the isekai genre And all her troops.

Escaflone’s vision [makes him] Not only one of the best isekai series, but one of the best 90s anime series in general.

It is also one of the few isekai to combine medieval fantasy with the mecha genre: Two opposites that normally wouldn’t go together at all, but feel natural here. All of this power The vision of Escaflone Not only one of the best isekai series, but one of the best 90s anime series in general.

16

Fushigi Yugi (1995)

Based on the manga by Yuu Watase and produced by Studio Pierrot

Miaka and Yui’s lives change forever when they stumble upon an ancient library book. Meeting a young warrior named Tamahome is just the beginning of their harrowing journeyAs they were caught in a brewing war.

One of the highest rated Iskai on MyAnimeList, Fushigi Yugi Began publication in 1995, and its influence can be seen in many Iskai published in the nearly thirty years since, such as The Stranger from Earth being the subject of prophecy and using Japanese and Chinese legends and mythological creatures to enrich the new world. . be Complex story, memorable characters and mature tone keep it a classic Isekai That many fans still consider as one of the best.

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15

Magical Revolution (2023)

Anime series by Diomedéa; Based on the light novel by Piero Carasu

In Diomedea The magical revolution of the reincarnated princess and the genius young ladyWhile Princess Anisfia “Anis” Wayne Palettia can’t use magic, She made a name for herself with her various magical inventions and experiments. When genius magi Euphyllia “Euphy” Magenta is about to be publicly shamed for crimes she didn’t commit, Anis saves her and recruits her as her assistant, and what follows is a relationship that changes them both in more ways than one.

Thanks to some bombastic action scenes, engaging worldbuilding and incredible writing for its leads, The magical revolution of the reincarnated princess and the genius young lady Has a perfect blending of action and strong storytelling for a story that delivers on all fronts. There are few anime with as much care put into their stories, isekai Or else, and any fan of the genre would be remiss to pass it up.

14

Magic Knight Rayerth (1994)

anime series by TMS Entertainment; Based on the manga in parentheses

TMS Entertainment Magic Knight Rayerth Starring Hikaru Shidou, Umi Ryuuzaki and Fuu Hououji, A trio of girls who are suddenly called to the magical world of Sephiroth by his ruler, Princess Emeraude. There, they learn that Emeraude has been captured by the evil high priest Zagato, and Hikaru, Umi, and Fuu must become the Magic Knights of Legend to defeat Zagato and free Emeraude from her misery.

In addition to having all the great character writing that Klump stories are known to excel at, Magic Knight RayerthThe blending of fantasy and mecha themes and action makes for a uniquely engaging story from start to finishAnd with how oversaturated Modern isekai It is with derivative stories that uniqueness is particularly noteworthy. It is a truly standout series among Klump’s works, and with a Magic Knight Rayerth Reboot officially in development, now is the perfect time to start watching.

13

Breakout Company (2013)

Anime series by Feel; Based on the light novel by Ichiro Sakaki

at Feel’s Outbreak companyThe Japanese government has recently made contact with the fantasy world of the Holy Eldant Empire and has begun making efforts to connect with them. The government has decided that the best way to do this is to teach the citizens of the Holy Eldont Empire About anime and manga, and to that end, they recruited major otaku Shinichi Kanou to help spread his knowledge of anime throughout the country.

Outbreak company‘s reference-laden comedy and fantasy parody stylings always do a great job of playing with the typical conventions of the isekai genreAnd that’s made even more impressive by how the series came before isekai began to be exaggerated. Add in some clever twists near the end that completely engagingly recontextualize the story, and it’s an underrated gem isekai Fan should give a chance.

12

The Devil’s a Part-Timer (2013)

Anime series by White Fox & Studio 3Hz; Based on the light novel by Satoshi Wagahara

in The devil is a part-timer!After the demon lord Satan and his assistant escape to Earth after being defeated by the hero Emilia, They must disguise themselves as humans until they can regain enough power to return home. However, they not only have to deal with allies and enemies in the same situation as them, but they also have to fight with Satan who is much too acclaimed for his work as a fast food worker and human life, in general.

Another series that came out before these isekai The genre was in full swing, The devil is a part-timer! Does a great job of satirizing the genre with excellent character-driven comedy And a surprising amount of heart at times. The second season didn’t always live up to the quality of the first, but overall, it’s still a stellar comedy for flipping the script on the isekai Formula.

11

Ascendance Of A Bookworm (2019)

Based on the light novel series by Miya Kazuki and produced by Wit Studio

Dying in the real world, Urano Motosu wants to be reborn so she can continue reading. She is, but there is a catch: it is in a world at a level of technology before the dawn of the printing pressSo books are incredibly rare.

While some viewers are turned off by its slow pace, others who aren’t looking for action find it so Refreshing to follow an Isekai protagonist who aspires to be a librarian rather than a warrior. Urano—now a charming child hero named Myne—is determined to spread literature throughout her new world, even if she has to hand copy every book she’s ever read by heart, a noble goal whose execution is interesting to follow.

10

The Twelve Kingdoms (2002)

Based on the fantasy novels by Fuyumi Ono and produced by Studio Pierrot

Youko Nakajima doesn’t have to die to be transported to her fantasy world, but it’s no longer pleasant when a strange creature appears to her, declares his eternal loyalty and whisks her away. Twelve kingdoms Takes a much more grounded approach to the typical isekai premise Despite its well-known magic and fantasy elements, with each society and its politics is thoroughly carried out.

Yoko herself goes through a dynamic transformation from a scared teenager to a confident and wise warrior queen, Mastering her powers more realistically than in a flashy Isekai who just wants to rush through development to get to battle scenesmaking Twelve kingdoms One of the best series in the genre.

9

The Eminence in Shadow (2022)

Based on the novel series by Daisuke Aizawa and produced by Studio Nexus

Sid Kagenow was a Japanese high school student who always dreamed of being a mysterious figure manipulating events from behind the scenes. When he is transported to another world, he is finally able to live out his fantasiesEasily become one of his new world’s most powerful figures.

What makes this show different from the other generic power fantasies that plague the isekai genre is that It takes this premise to a ridiculously delightful extreme. This is what makes it one of the best isekai anime despite its seemingly trashy premise.

8

Inuyasha (2000)

Anime series by Sunrise; Based on the manga by Rumiko Takahashi

at sunrise InuyashaKagome Higurashi is a seemingly normal girl who awakens to spiritual powers after wandering into Sengoku-era Japan and freeing the vicious half-demon Inuyasha from his prison. After accidentally shattering the powerful Shikon jewelKagome and Inuyasha must travel together to reassemble the Shikon Jewel before it falls into the hands of evil, specifically the demon responsible for Inuyasha’s imprisonment in the first place.

Thanks to Inuyashas fun and simplistic character and narrative writing, combined with its engaging action and classic romance tropesThe series has gone down as a classic between shōnen anime, and it more than deserves its reputation, even after so many years. Just like Rumiko Takahashi’s other stories, Inuyasha is a series that always manages to deliver the basics of what makes a good story, and even with how long a series it is, it’s still worth watching.

7

Log Horizon (2013)

Anime Series by Studio Dean; Based on the light novel by Mamare Touno

Studio Dean Log horizon is centered around seniority, A massively popular MMORPG that somehow socked 30 thousand players into its world with its latest update. Among the players is Shiroe, a master strategist from when Elder Tale was just a game, and he has taken it upon himself to guide his friends through their new status quo and learn everything about their new reality.

In addition to its great direction and action scenes, Log horizon Stands out for the incredible depth in which it handles the idea of ​​being trapped in a video gameWhether this is in how the game mechanics would affect a person or how the world, itself, would respond to such an event. Over a decade later, there are few anime that have ever done as much with the concept as Log horizonAnd the series has always been great to watch because of that.

6

Batman Ninja (2018)

Film by Kamikaze Douga & YamatoWorks; Based on the character from DC Comics

Kamikaze Douga and Yamatoworks Batman Ninja is a Batman Film that sees Batman and a wide assortment of his allies and enemies sent back in time to Sengoku-era Japan. As the villains take over Japan piece by piece, Batman’s usual array of gadgets fails himSo if he wants to save the day and return to his time, his only choice is to play in the setting and fully embrace the way of the ninja.

A sequel film, Batman Ninja Vs. Yakuza Leagueis currently in development, and with any luck, it will help Batman Ninja Get the recognition a stellar film deserves

While the story’s quirkiness has given it a divisive reputation among fans, Batman NinjaIts willingness to be as weird as possible, combined with its gorgeous visuals and animation, make it an excellent Batman History And one of DC’s best animated films, by far. A sequel film, Batman Ninja Vs. Yakuza Leagueis currently in development, and with any luck, it will help Batman Ninja Get the recognition a stellar film deserves.

5

Re:Zero – Starting Life in Another World (2016)

Based on the light novel by Tappei Nagatsuki and produced by Studio White Fox

Subaru Natsuki winds up in a world full of magic but only gains the power to return to life at a certain checkpoint in his journey each time he dies. One of the fans’ favorite aspects of this show is that Subaru’s ability to die forever is usually affordable.

Weak and unskilled, he is overpowered by terrifying beasts several times before he figures out how to beat them, which leads to Subaru falling victim to some of the scariest scenes in non-horror anime. Rather than overpowering Subaru like a typical Isekai hero, Re: Zero Instead it forces him to use his wit, a refreshing change that makes it one of the best isekai anime.

4

That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime (2018)

Based on the light novel series by Fuse and produced by Eight Bit

Former human Rimuru Tempest meets many powerful characters in That time I got reincarnated as a slime When he finds that he is given tremendous powers of his own when he is reborn as a humble slime in a new world. Fans enjoy it Lighthearted fantasy tone and colorful characters and love Rimuru for his ability to please everyone He comes across, from dragons to spellcasters.

Rimuru’s power is one thing, but it takes a backseat to his charisma, That gets him a lot further than magic and is the main reason the show is one of the best isekai anime.

3

Digimon Adventure (1999)

anime series by Toi Animation; Created by Akiyoshi Hongo

Digimon is a massive multimedia franchise that is probably best known for its wide assortment of anime. The story changes with each new series, But they always follow a basic plot of kids teaming up with powerful creatures called Digimon to save both of their worlds from danger.A journey that typically sees the children traveling to the Digimon’s home world, the Digital World.

There will always be at least one Digimon series that will resonate with someone, and that has played a large part in why the franchise has endured for so many decades

Digimon is one of the oldest and most iconic examples of a isekai anime, and with the anthology nature of the franchise always allowing for different takes on its story, There is always something new to see when it comes to action, drama and overall spectacle. There will always be at least one Digimon series that will resonate with someone, and that played a big part in why the franchise has endured for so many decades.

2

The Boy and the Heron (2023)

Anime film by Studio Ghibli; Directed by Hayao Miyazaki

Studio Ghibli The boy and the heron It stars Mahito Maki, a young boy struggling to deal with his mother’s death in the Pacific War. After moving to his mother’s old home, a talking heron brings Mahito to another world with the promise that he can bring his mother back to life, but Mahitio’s journey to do so is far more complicated than he could have imagined.

All the gorgeous artwork, animation and overall direction that Studio Ghibli is famous for is on full display in The boy and the heronAnd when combined with his emotionally resonant story of overcoming loss, The boy and the heron Becomes one of the strongest Studio Ghibli films of all time. The boy and the heron had a notoriously long production cycle, but it was worth the wait and is a great film even for those who don’t like isekai.

1

Spirited Away (2001)

Anime film by Studio Ghibli; Directed by Hayao Miyazaki

Young Chihiro ends up trapped in the spirit world, her parents turned into pigs for stealing the spirits and robbed of her name and memories. To return home, Chihiro draws on an inner strength she never knew she had and befriends spirits like the courageous Lin and the mysterious but powerful Haku.

Spirited AwayIt’s masterfully done Fantasy elements, coming-of-age story, themes of connection with the natural world and one’s own self, and stunning animation Make it one of the best Studio Ghibli films and easily the Best isekai Anime to watch.