10 Best Anime Series of All Time Officially Ranked
Anime has grown into a global phenomenon, with stories filled with imaginative storytelling, stunning, cinematic visuals, and unforgettable characters that bring their worlds to life. From epic battles to heart-wrenching drama, there’s an anime for all audiences across generations. The evolution of anime encapsulates a diverse range of genres, themes, and influences, with its impact stretching far beyond mere entertainment. Over the years, as anime has grown in popularity, certain stories have inspired countless creators and fans, built dedicated communities, and maintained long-lasting appeal. Certain titles stand out in comparison to all the rest for their ability to spark emotion, reshape their genres, or deliver complex, intricate storylines that audiences will never forget.
10
Death Note
Light Yagami holding the Death Note
Death Note follows Light Yagami, a brilliant high school student who discovers a mysterious notebook that grants him the ability to kill anyone whose name is written on its pages. As he attempts to reshape the world by eliminating criminals, he captures the attention of world-renowned detective L, sparking a high-stakes game of cat-and-mouse. The series excels in psychological tension, intricate plotting, and depiction of morally complex characters. Death Note has become a cult classic that is known for its thought-provoking exploration of justice, keeping audiences constantly engaged. The series is full of unforgettable confrontations and sets the standard for anime thrillers.
9
Neon Genesis Evangelion
Shinji, Asuka, and Rei as seen in Neon Genesis Evangelion
Neon Genesis Evangelion centers on Shinji Ikari, a teenage pilot recruited to operate a giant biomechanical robot called an Evangelion to protect Earth from mysterious beings known as Angels. As he takes on these formidable adversaries, he must navigate complex relationships and personal traumas, creating a narrative filled with action and existential questions. The series’s groundbreaking approach to storytelling deconstructs the mecha genre and explores deep psychological and philosophical themes. Paired with its complex character development and symbolic imagery, Neon Genesis Evangelion stands as an influential and resonant work that pushed the boundaries of conventional anime.
8
Mob Psycho 100
Mob Psycho 100 cover art featuring Kageyama “Mob” Shigeo and Reigan.
Mob Psycho 100 follows Shigeo “Mob” Kageyama, a seemingly ordinary middle schooler who possesses extraordinary psychic powers. He struggles to control his ability and desires nothing more than to have a normal everyday life, but often deals with spirits, other psychics, and his own emotional growth, all under the guidance of his mentor and self-proclaimed psychic, Reigen. The series stands out for its innovative animation and fluid action sequences. Paired with its heartfelt exploration of adolescence, self-identity, and emotional regulation, Mob Psycho 100 stands out as one of the best anime ever made. Its blend of comedy, heart, and cinematic sequences pushed the boundaries of visual storytelling while delivering an unforgettable story.
7
Nana
Nana follows two young women who share the same name but live vastly different lives. Nana Osaki is a punk rock singer moving to Tokyo to make a name for herself, while Nana Komatsu chases love and stability. Their chance meeting leads to a deep friendship in which they challenge and support one another while navigating life in Tokyo. The series excels in portraying raw, emotionally complex characters and realistic relationships. Its complex storytelling, mature themes, and realistic portrayal of relationships, ambition, and navigating adulthood create a resonant, character-driven drama. Nana stands out as one of the best drama anime that doesn’t shy away from the messiness of life.
6
Vinland Saga
Vinland Saga follows Thorfinn, a young Viking driven by revenge after the murder of his father. Set during 11th-century Europe, the story explores the complexities of honor, ambition, and survival while immersing viewers in historically inspired battles and the harsh realities of Viking life.
The series grows beyond its initial premise, becoming one of the most stunning and moving modern anime series, resonating with countless fans worldwide.
The anime is known for its intense character development, cinematic action sequences, and exploration of revenge, morality, and growth. The series grows beyond its initial premise, becoming one of the most stunning and moving modern anime series, resonating with countless fans worldwide.
5
Naruto: Shippuden
Naruto Shippuden anime visual featuring Naruto, Sasuke and Sakura
Naruto: Shippuden continues the story of the titular character Naruto Uzumaki, a young ninja striving to gain recognition and to protect his village while mastering the immense power of the Nine-Tails fox sealed within him. The series follows Naruto and his allies as they face dangerous enemies along with personal struggles, all within a strongly developed, imaginative ninja world. The anime stands out as one of the most popular ever made, with its expansive worldbuilding, memorable characters, and emotionally charged storylines that resonate for their depth and lasting impact. From epic battles to universal themes of friendship, perseverance, and redemption, Naruto: Shippuden remains a defining shōnen anime that continues to attract audiences worldwide.
4
Puella Magi Madoka Magica
Puella-Magi-Madoka-Magica-Eternal-Visual
Puella Magi Madoka Magica follows Madoka Kaname, an ordinary middle school girl whose life changes when she is offered the chance to become a magical girl and fight witches. Alongside new friends, she must confront the alluring promise of a wish and power; however, as time goes on, dark truths are uncovered, forever altering the truth behind the magical girl system. The series is best known for its subversive take on the magical girl genre, blending stunning visuals with psychological depth and mature themes. Its inventive storytelling, emotional resonance, and striking, experimental animation create a thrilling and immersive experience that can’t be missed.
Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood follows brothers Edward and Alphonse Elric, who suffer a devastating loss after a failed alchemical experiment that costs Edward one arm and one leg, and Alphonse his entire body. Determined to restore themselves, they search for the Philosopher’s Stone, setting them down a path that neither of them could have imagined.
The series excels with well-developed characters, an intricate and deliberately paced plot, and a perfect balance of humor, action, and heart. Filled with themes of sacrifice, redemption, and the consequences of ambition, Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood stands out as an anime masterpiece that fans can’t afford to miss.
2
Cowboy Bebop
Cowboy Bebop follows a group of bounty hunters traveling through space aboard the spaceship Bebop, led by Spike Spiegel. Each member of the group carries a complex past, and as they chase bounties across the solar system, they must confront personal struggles, relationships, and their own pasts. The series stands out for its genre-defying style, unforgettable soundtrack, and its delivery of a narratively sharp experience. From the writing to the characters, Cowboy Bebop has created a timeless atmosphere, all culminating in a finale that fans could never forget, cementing its place as a landmark anime that continues to influence fans and creators alike.
1
Dragon Ball
Dragon Ball Kai’s Goku using the Turtle School Gi
Dragon Ball follows Goku and his friends as they defend the Earth from increasingly powerful adversaries ranging from intergalactic tyrants to god-like beings. The series is filled with humor, epic battles, legendary rivalries, and unforgettable transformations, all while exploring themes of friendship, perseverance, and the drive to surpass limits. The anime is celebrated worldwide for its iconic fights, transformations, and characters. Dragon Ball stands out as one of the most influential anime ever created and sets new standards for what to expect from action shōnen series. With countless installments through spin-offs, films, and video games, Dragon Ball only continues to captivate audiences across generations.
已发布: 2025-12-26 04:27:00
来源: screenrant.com
