45 Best Anime Series of All Time, Ranked

For a medium as diverse and wide-ranging as anime, it can be difficult to rank these Best anime series of all time. Looking at the wide range of metrics fans use to judge the quality of any individual anime makes the ranking even tougher.

While no metric is necessarily wrong, ultimately things such as animation quality, industry impact, direction, atmosphere, and consistency can quantify how to rank each anime. Unfortunately, that last point disqualifies some notable fan favorites. Although Naruto And bleach They are both incredible series, their abundance of poor filler eliminates them from the ranking. It would also not be fair to count any currently ongoing series. While One Piece, Spy X Family, Ranking of kingsAnd Kaguya-sama Are all masterpieces in their own right, it is impossible to rank them without knowing their endings.

45

Summer time rendering

Animated by OLM, based on manga by Yasuki Tanaka

There are many amazing series that go under the radar, But it’s criminal just as underhyped Summer time rendering was when it came out. With many series taking a shot at the time travel plot line, this series is extremely good and with a unique twist. Shinpei Ajiro returns to his island hometown to attend the funeral of his childhood friend Ushio, and what was supposed to be a peaceful burial turns out to be a conspiracy by centuries-old supernatural beings after Ajiro senses something wrong with Ushio s death.

Although the plot was so amazing that even Hideo Kojima praised it many times, it would not have been possible without the incredible visuals, action sequences and superb animation of the studio behind Berserk and more. The 24-episode series is sure to captivate viewers, not only because it has one of the best and most shocking first episodes, but also because it has a healthy ending that beautifully wraps everything up.

44

My Teen Romantic Comedy SNAFU

Animated by Brain’s Base, based on the light novel by Watari Wataru and Ponkan

What started as a hilarious comedy series gradually evolved into a fantastic tale of high school seniors weaving life, family, college and relationships. More commonly known as OregairoThe narcissistic Hikigaya Hachiman is forced to join the Service Club by his concerned teacher, a club that takes requests from students and helps them out. There he meets the only other member, the simultaneously narcissistic and arrogant Yukonishita Yukinon, and the two clash ideologically and differ in their methods of helping others. Thus, they begin their journey of lending a hand to others and also figuring themselves out and improving as a person.

While the art style and visuals change dramatically after the first season, the core of the series is ever so present, Keep his hearty and funny dialogue and also take a mature way of storytelling. The story also tackles everyday high school topics such as bullying, love, the dilemma of university, family, and more, being a great depiction of youth that will undoubtedly take viewers back to school days.

43

Gintama

Animated by Sunrise, based on manga by Hideaki Sorachi

Is it a summary series, a sci-fi story, a gag comedy or a battle show? Gintama Takes all these elements and chops them into one, delivering a hilarious and intense series that stands as one of Japan’s most beloved series. The series follows Gintoki, a former samurai in an Edo Japan invaded and ruled by aliens known as the Amanto. Together with Kagura and Shinpachi, the trio performs many odd jobs to make ends meet, taking on hilarious adventures that are as wild as one can imagine. From being involved in a terror plot to helping convicts, Gintama is one of the funniest anime ever.

The series has a lighthearted tone, but it can quickly transition to intense battles, especially in story arcs like Farewell Shinsengumi and Shogun Assassination, which are top-tier in the battle shoun genre. Fans should pay close attention to the comedy episodes, as the creator, Sorachi, often references and incorporates interesting scenes from the episodes into the overarching story arcs. While Gintama Loses the amazing humor as the series progresses, the series maintains a high level of wit in the gags, and combined with the excellent cast and action, it is a staple show that has earned its status.

42

Code Geass

Original anime series created by Gorō Taniguchi & Ichirō Ōkouchi, animated by Sunrise

One of the most popular mecha series, this Studio Sunrise hit was an amazing ride from start to finish, not only with one of the best first episodes but also one of the best and most unforgettable endings. Lelouch Lamperouge, a high school boy, is caught up in a terror plot by Japanese freedom fighters to free their home from Britannia, the global superpower. On the verge of death, the brilliant tactician is given the divine visual power known as Geass, and so, he starts his struggle to take revenge on Brittania, the country he was once a prince of, and tore his family apart.

The series features an amazing display of war, genocide, oppression and imperialism, making Lelouch’s intense battle even more engaging. The mecha aspect is also good, with the varying knightmare frames being one of the best features of the series. The deception, politics, and tactics of Code Geass make it A fantastic political thriller that uses its supernatural and battle scene classificationMaking it an anime to remember.

41

Haikyuu!!

Animated by Production IG, based on manga by Haruichi Furudate

Despite volleyball being a fairly niche sport globally, Haikyuu!! Secured a huge fanbase in Japan and around the world for its excellent cast that engaged people long enough to learn the rules of a new sport. The character development and dynamics are superb, to say the least, and even characters who would otherwise have been sidelined get meaningful arcs to justify a fanbase. The series is so dedicated to its characters that it shows the professional career of the players’ lives, something that is rare in sports manga.

The sports aspect of Haikyuu!! Is also exciting, not only make the game of volleyball as exciting as possible, but also make it easy to understand and give the match stakes through the emotions of the athletes. With exciting gameplay, an amazing cast and incredible animation, Haikyuu!! Is a phenomenon in the world of sports series and deserves praise for its influence in making the sport more popular.

40

Azumanga Daioh

Animated by JC staff, based on manga by Kiyohiko Azuma

Slice-of-life is an important genre in anime, and few have captured the genre’s appeal quite like Azumanga Daioh. Ostensibly a comedy, the series follows six high school girls over the course of three years. Although hijinks and antics are an important part of the series, What really makes Azumanga Daioh The foundation is just as cozy as it gets. The main cast are distinct characters who bounce off each other in fun ways. The result is a series that makes viewers feel like they’re hanging out with friends.

Unfortunately, if Azumanga Daioh Has one central flaw, it is the lone male character, the teacher Mr. Kimura. The jokes about him being attracted to high school girls weren’t big when the anime and manga first released, but have only grown more uncomfortable as the years go on. Still, it speaks to Azumanga Daioh S Quality that Mr. Kimura’s presence is a flaw many fans are more than willing to overlook.

39

Attack on Titan

Animated by WIT & MAPPA, based on manga created by Hajime Isayama

After a decade, Attack on Titan’s Anime wrapped up and cemented the series’ status as an all-time great. The anime series starts with an undeniable sense of mystery, as the wild premise automatically invites so many questions. Although anime starting with a series of ​​overarching big questions is quite common, it is rare to see all the mysteries answered in such a thorough and satisfying manner as they are in. Attack on Titan. This can be at the base of ​​the Attack on Titan Manga, but the anime also helps clarify some points that actually improve the overall experience.

Attack on Titan It may also be among the most influential anime of the 2010s. Shonen has always had a darker undercurrent, especially with creators like Go Nagai. However, Dark Shadows definitely saw a renaissance after the runaway success of Attack on Titan. Mega-hit manga and anime like Jujutsu Kaisen And Chainsaw Man Certainly owe a debt of gratitude to Attack on Titan.

38

Violet Evergarden

Animated by Kyoto Animation, based on the light novel by Kana Akatsuki & Akiko Takase

Kyoto Animation is one of the most beloved anime studios in the world, and with visual masterpieces like Violet EvergardenIt’s easy to see why. Violet Evergarden Tells a rather simple story about a child soldier trying to regain her identity after the end of the war and the loss of the only person who cared about her.. The titular heroine ends up working as an auto-memory puppet, someone who transcribes letters. Through this straightforward premise, the series tackles a variety of emotional themes with its mostly episodic structure.

For all the strengths of Violet Evergarden The story though, it’s the look and feel of the series that earns it such high marks. Despite this successful premise, Violet Evergarden is nothing short of decadent with its art style and music. The animation is fluid and captures small movements well while the score is swelling, capturing the emotions of each scene perfectly. The result is one of the best animated anime series of all time.

37

The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya

Animated by Kyoto Animation, based on the light novel series by Nagaru Tanigawa & Noizi Ito

On the exact opposite end of the Kyoto Animation spectrum from Violet Evergarden Is The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya. Haruhi became infamous in the late 2000s and early 2010s for absolutely dominating anime fandomAnd while some fans may have gone overboard, the series and its titular star live up to the hype. One of the most powerful anime characters ever, Haruhi is an incredibly compelling character.

But more than just one interesting song, Haruhi is a bold and ambitious show. The events are told in order, there are 8 episodes that basically just repeat themselves, and the overall tone is just absurd. While fans may grumble about the infamous Endless Eight, it’s still a move that feels fitting to Haruhi.

36

Fist of the North Star

Animated by Toei Animation, based on manga created by Buronson & Tetsuo Hara

Running from 1984 to 1987, Toei Animation’s Fist of the North Star is a series whose influence is wide. Fist of the North Star is about a martial artist named Kenshiro who fights against the warlords and bandits who have risen in the wake of a nuclear apocalypse.

Perhaps the definitive anime of the 1980s, Fist of the North Star Ushered in a new era of gritty and violent anime That defined the device for more than a decade. The series’ legacy can still be felt today, as it has not only been referenced by countless other anime and manga, it has served as an inspiration for masterpieces like Berserk And Jojo’s Strange Adventure. As if his inheritance wasn’t enough, Fist of the North Star is just a blood-pumping good time even outside of its historical context.

35

Death note

Animated by Madhouse, based on manga created by Tsugumi Ohba & Takeshi Obata

Death note Completely rewrite the book on what was possible in a Shonen series. Far from the high-octane battles of a series like Naruto Or Dragon Ball p, Death note ‘Bats’ are much more cerebral. Few other series create a psychological game of cat and mouse as fascinating as this Death note.

The art design and direction are what make this anime series really stand out though. Anime fans may have made a meme out of Licht’s infamous potato chip scene, but it’s a brilliant little moment that uses strong direction and sound design to suck viewers into Licht’s twisted perspective. Yes, the series’ commitment to being edgy can sometimes come off as a touch goofy, but that often adds to its charm in a way that many lesser series have failed to replicate.. Although its controversial second part knocks it down a few notches, Death note is essential viewing for any anime fan.

34

Anohana: The Flower We Saw That Day is a beautiful story of accepting grief

Original anime series created by Tatsuyuki Nagai, Mari Okada and Masayoshi Tanaka

Anohana: The flower we saw that day Follows a young hikikimori named Jinta who suddenly starts seeing the ghost of his former best friend, Menma. What follows is a heartbreaking but ultimately life-affirming journey that sees Jinta reconnect with his old friend group so they can all fully process Menma’s death. Although the premise has an undeniable emotional charge, Anohana is one of the most heartfelt slice-of-life anime of all time.

With an anime industry so focused on an idealized view of high school, Anohana‘s more grounded take on trauma and growth will resonate with anime fans who want something a little more mature Out of their coming-of-age anime. While it may be low compared to some anime, this speaks more to the strength of the other entries than any flaw inherent with Anohana Beautiful and gripping story.

33

Slam Dunk is one of the greatest sports anime of all time

Animated by Toi Animation, based on manga by Takehiko Inoue

Takehiko Inoue is one of the most acclaimed mangaka of all time, and although his masterpiece Vagabond will probably never be adapted into an anime, fans can still feel comfortable knowing that slam dunk Anime exists. Although in many ways a prototypical sports story about a young delinquent learning the value of teamwork, slam dunk Stands out from the competition with impeccable animation and an absolutely infectious cast.

in his heart, slam dunk Is like most great Sean, about self-improvement. Sakuragi’s growth from a girl-obsessed goof into a legitimate basketball player is consistently rewarding to watch, as is the camaraderie he forms with his teammates. While the manga is still the best way to see the story, Toei’s adaptation is no slouch. Fans also owe it to themselves to watch the series’ wrap-up movie The first slam dunk, which was directed by Inoue himself.

32

Mobile Suit Gundam 0080: War in the Pocket is one of the most moving anti-war anime ever

Animated by Sunrise, based on the franchise created by Yoshiyuki Tomino & Sunrise

Gundam is one of the most important anime franchises ever created, with countless incredible series. Although Western fans may prefer the incredibly popular Gundam Wing Or Gundam SEEDIt is Hard to deny that one of the most effective entries of the franchise is Mobile Suit Gundam 0080: War in the Pocket.

Taking place in the main continuity of the series, War in the pocket follows a rookie pilot named Bernie who is tasked with destroying a prototype Gundam. While Bernie waits for his own Mac to be repaired, he befriends a young boy named Al, who sees war as exciting and cool.. Bernie also becomes infatuated with a woman his age named Chris, who, unbeknownst to him, is the prototype Gundam’s test pilot. What follows is a heartbreaking story about the emotional cost of war.

If there is one thing consistent in most Gundam Besides the iconic Mex himself, it’s the prevalence of anti-war themes. nEver have Gundam Anti-war themes more clear than they are in War in the pocket. There is an almost tragic sense of inevitability in the series as viewers dread the moment Bernie and Chris finally come to blows. All of this is grounded by Al, a character who is far from the annoying kid sidekick he could have been.

Bernie is not some further evolution for humanity like many of the new type heroes from other Gundam series, he is one of thousands of faceless Mox who would die an unremarkable death in any other Gundam Series

GundamJust like many other anime franchises, is filled with stories of special people who are uniquely talented. in contrast, War in the Pocket Flips the script by focusing only on normal people just trying to survive. Bernie is not some further evolution for humanity like many of the new type heroes from other Gundam series, he is one of thousands of faceless Mox who would die an unremarkable death in any other Gundam Series. Filled with many twists and turns, War in the pocket remains the absolute top of Gundam.

31

Nichijou – My Ordinary Life

Animated by Kyoto Animation, based on manga created by Keiichi Arawi

Nichijou – My Ordinary Life is a 2011 anime from Kyoto Animation. This good-natured slice-of-life story follows high school students Yuko, Mio, Mai and Nano and the increasingly absurd events of their day-to-day lives. Comedy is often difficult to translate across cultural lines, but the barrier never stops Nichiou From being outrageously funny.

Nichiou is a series that always puts the maximum amount of effort into making the jokes land, often using animation and art direction to enhance gags instead of just relying on clever dialogue. Even beyond the incredible animation though, Nichijou’s The characters are some of the most endearing group of weirdos to ever grace a comedy anime. One of these aspects alone would make Nichiou Big, but together, they make the series a certified classic. Adapting gag manga is notoriously hit or miss, but with NichiouIt’s all heat.

30

Trigun is a unique series that has a huge impact

Animated by Madhouse, based on manga by Yasuhiro Nightow

Trigun is a classic case of an anime that is much bigger in America than in Japan. Given the Wild West themes and reliance on Judeo-Christian themes, this is not terribly surprising. What is surprising though is how well Trigun Continues so long after its original release. The series follows Vash the Stampede, a talented gunslinger whose high bounty means hunters are after him. As a result of the rampant destruction left in the wake of Wash’s fights, insurance agents Meryl and Milly are sent to follow him and report on the damage he leaves.

It’s not uncommon for anime heroes to shy away from killing their enemies. Characters like Naruto, for example, famously prefer to talk things out with their opponents whenever possible. What makes Vash so remarkable is how he makes a commitment to non-violence his guiding life philosophy. For Wash, the choice of peace is not a cop-out or a sign of weakness, it is a sign of his determination. Vash might be the first anime hero to make Pacificsm look really bad.

Even apart from washing, they have spared from Trigun are incredibly kind. Meryl and Milly balance each other out well and have a fun dynamic while Wolfwood is an excellent counterpoint to Wash’s pacifism. The characters, combined with the fascinating world of the series, make Trigun More than deserving of a high rank among the best anime series of all time.

29

Wolf’s rain

Original anime series created by Keiko Nobumoto & Studio Bones

Few anime pack as much of an emotional punch as this Wolf’s rain. The anime takes place in a dystopian future on the verge of collapse. At the end of the world, four wolves with the ability to take human form are looking for the flower girl so that she can lead them to paradise. Wolf’s rain was ahead of his time As his plot has a great focus on the emotional fallout of living in a world doomed by climate change. Each character’s response to the impending apocalypse shows the psychological toll of being burdened with saving a doomed world.

As if the deep topics weren’t enough, Wolf’s rain is also gorgeous with beautiful visuals and an absolutely haunting soundtrack From the legend herself, Yoko Kanno. Wolf’s rain Has its missteps, but none of them are enough to damage this deep anime.

28

Megalobox

Original anime series created by TMS Entertainment & 3xCube

Made in celebration of the 50th anniversary of the incredibly influential manga series Tomorrow’s Joe, Megalobox is a gritty sci-fi boxing anime that doesn’t pull its punches. The story is simple, like Megalobox Follows a young man known as Junk Dog (later given the name Joe) as he rises through the ranks of megaloboxing. Like boxing but with added cybernetic exoskeletons, Megalobox is a deadly sport that can have life-altering consequences for its combatants.

Megalobox is one of the greatest sports anime of all time, with fluid animation and bouts that are just as tense as the best boxing matches in the real world. Beyond all the incredible technical details that make the series really shine, There’s just something undeniably cool about its premise that easily earns it a spot among the best anime ever.

27

Your lie in April

Animated by A-1 Pictures, based on manga created by Naoshi Arakawa

Your lie in April is a 2014 anime produced by A-1 Pictures. Your lie in April is about former piano prodigy Kōsei and his relationship with the free-spirited violinist Kaori. Although the manga the series is based on is interesting in itself, Your lie in April is the rare anime that actually improves upon its source material.

The series’ music is exquisite, and the art direction gives this tragedy-tinged series a bright edge that makes the darker moments stand out and hit all the harder. the main thing Your lie in April Letters are his main strength. The dynamic between the reserved Kōsei and the free-spirited Kaori has been done a thousand times before, but rarely has this type of romance been as moving or as heartfelt as this one. Your lie in April.

26

The Rose of Versailles

Animated by TMS Entertainment, based on manga by Riyoko Ikeda

The Rose of Versailles is a boundary-breaking shojo anime based on the manga of the same name by the visionary Riyoko Ikeda. The series takes place right before the French Revolution and follows a young woman named Lady Oscar who was trained in fighting from an early age. Oscar is tasked with bodyguards Marie Antoinette. As the plot develops, the poverty and destitution across France combined with Antoinette’s careless spending tests Oscar’s loyalty to France and the nobility.

Ahead of his time does not even begin to describe The Rose of Versailles. For an anime series from 1979 to tackle topics such as wage disparity, the balance of gender expectations and revolution is nothing short of a miracle. But more than that, The Rose of Versailles Handles her subjects with a fine handLeaving the anime an absolute classic that has influenced anime and manga for close to half a century now.