Best Anime Series: Discover Top Picks and Must-Watch Shows
Welcome to our comprehensive guide on the best anime series out there. Whether you’re a long-time anime fan or a newcomer, you’ll find plenty of exciting and captivating shows to add to your watchlist. Anime has exploded in popularity over the years, captivating audiences with its unique storytelling, unforgettable characters, and stunning animation.
With so many options to choose from, we’ve curated a list of the top picks and must-watch shows that are sure to impress. So sit back and get ready to explore the best anime series to date!
From critically acclaimed masterpieces to hidden gems, we’ve got you covered with our list of the best anime series. But before we dive into the top picks, let’s explore what makes an anime series stand out.
Key Takeaways:
- Our guide will introduce you to the best anime series out there
- Discover top picks and must-watch shows that will captivate and excite you
- Anime offers unique storytelling, unforgettable characters, and stunning animation
- Before we dive in, let’s explore what makes an anime series stand out
What Makes an Anime Series the Best?
With so many anime series out there, it can be challenging to determine which ones are the best. However, some key factors help distinguish the cream of the crop. Below are some of the characteristics that make an anime series stand out:
- Captivating Storytelling: The best anime series have a captivating story that draws the viewer in and keeps them engaged throughout the show. The story should have a clear beginning, middle, and end, with well-developed plot lines and plenty of twists and turns to keep the viewer guessing.
- Memorable Characters: An anime series is only as good as its characters. The best anime series have well-developed, memorable characters that viewers can connect with and root for. They should have unique personalities, relatable struggles, and meaningful character arcs.
- Stunning Animation: One of the most significant draws of anime is its stunning animation style. The best anime series have animation that is both visually impressive and emotionally evocative. It should enhance the story and the characters, captivating the viewer’s attention and immersing them in the show’s world.
- Unique Themes: The best anime series have unique and thought-provoking themes that explore important topics such as love, friendship, loss, and identity. These themes should be interwoven into the story and the characters, adding depth and meaning to the show.
By examining these characteristics, we can better understand what makes an anime series truly exceptional. In the next section, we’ll highlight the top 10 best anime series of all time, showcasing how they embody these qualities.
Top 10 Best Anime Series of All Time
If you’re looking for the cream of the crop when it comes to anime series, look no further than these top 10 picks. These shows have stood the test of time and continue to captivate audiences with their compelling storylines, memorable characters, and stunning animation.
| # | Anime Series | Synopsis |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood | The story follows two brothers, Edward and Alphonse Elric, who attempt to use alchemy to bring their deceased mother back to life. However, their attempt goes awry, resulting in tragic consequences. The brothers set out on a journey to find the Philosopher’s Stone, which they believe can help them restore what they lost. |
| 2 | Death Note | When high school student Light Yagami discovers a mysterious notebook that can kill anyone whose name is written in it, he decides to use it to cleanse the world of evil. As Light becomes more consumed with his power, a game of cat-and-mouse ensues between him and a mysterious detective named L. |
| 3 | Naruto/Naruto Shippuden | Set in a world of ninja, the series follows Naruto Uzumaki, a young orphan who dreams of becoming the strongest ninja in his village. Along with his friends, Naruto navigates through a series of battles and challenges as he grows stronger and fights to protect his loved ones. |
| 4 | Attack on Titan | In a world where humanity lives behind walls to protect themselves from giant humanoid creatures called Titans, a young boy named Eren Yeager vows to eradicate them after they destroy his hometown. As Eren joins the military and battles the Titans, he discovers secrets about the creatures and the true nature of the world he lives in. |
| 5 | One Piece | Monkey D. Luffy sets out on a journey to find the legendary One Piece, a treasure hidden somewhere in the vast ocean. Along the way, Luffy gathers a diverse crew of pirates and faces off against formidable enemies as he strives to become the Pirate King. |
| 6 | Code Geass | After obtaining a power known as Geass, which allows him to control people’s minds, high school student Lelouch Lamperouge decides to use his newfound power to overthrow the oppressive government ruling over Japan. With the help of a mysterious girl named C.C., Lelouch leads a rebellion against the Britannian Empire. |
| 7 | Steins;Gate | Self-proclaimed mad scientist Rintaro Okabe and his friends accidentally create a device that can send text messages into the past. As they experiment with time travel, they soon discover that their actions have unforeseen and potentially disastrous consequences. |
| 8 | Your Lie in April | After the death of his mother, young pianist Kosei Arima loses the ability to hear the sound of his own playing. However, his life changes when he meets the vivacious violinist Kaori Miyazono, who inspires him to rediscover his love for music. |
| 9 | My Hero Academia | In a world where most people have superpowers, young Izuku Midoriya is born without any. However, when he receives the power of the world’s greatest hero, All Might, he enrolls in a school for aspiring heroes and works to become a hero himself. |
| 10 | Cowboy Bebop | Set in the future, the series follows a group of bounty hunters who travel through space in pursuit of the galaxy’s most dangerous criminals. Along the way, they face personal demons and form strong bonds with each other. |
These top 10 best anime series of all time have proven their staying power in the industry and continue to attract new fans with their timeless appeal. Whether you’re a die-hard anime fan or just starting to explore the genre, these shows are must-watches that are sure to leave a lasting impression.
Must-Watch Anime Series for Beginners
If you’re new to the anime genre and feeling overwhelmed by the vast selection of shows available, fret not! Here are some beginner-friendly anime series to get you started:
| Title | Genre | Synopsis |
|---|---|---|
| Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood | Action, Adventure, Fantasy | The story follows two brothers who attempt to use alchemy to bring their deceased mother back to life, but pay a heavy price. They set out on a journey to find the Philosopher’s Stone, a legendary artifact with the power to grant wishes and restore their bodies. |
| Your Lie in April | Drama, Music, Romance | A talented pianist who lost his ability to hear the sound of his own playing meets a free-spirited violinist who helps him rediscover his love for music and life. |
| My Hero Academia | Action, Comedy, Superhero | In a world where almost everyone has a special power called a “quirk,” a young boy without any powers aspires to become a hero like his idol and attend a prestigious hero academy. |
| Haikyuu!! | Sports, Comedy, Drama | The story revolves around a high school volleyball team and their journey to become the best in Japan, led by their determined and passionate captain. |
These anime series have relatable characters, engaging storylines, and impressive animation that will surely captivate your interest and leave you wanting more.
Critically Acclaimed Anime Series Worth Watching
If you’re looking for anime series that have garnered critical acclaim, you’re in the right place. These series are not only praised for their unique and gripping storylines but also for their exceptional animation, thought-provoking themes, and complex character development. Whether you’re a seasoned anime fan or new to the genre, these anime series are sure to leave a lasting impression.
Attack on Titan
Attack on Titan is a dark, action-packed anime series that has become a worldwide phenomenon. The story follows Eren Yeager, who lives in a world where humanity resides in cities surrounded by massive walls to protect themselves from Titans, giant humanoid creatures who devour humans without reason.
The series is known for its dynamic action scenes, stunning animation, and complex characters. Attack on Titan has been praised for its exploration of themes such as power, freedom, and humanity’s struggle for survival.
Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood
Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood is a masterful anime series that has been praised for its compelling storytelling and exceptional character development. The story follows two brothers, Edward and Alphonse Elric, who use alchemy to try to bring their deceased mother back to life.
However, the attempt goes wrong, and Edward loses his left leg, while Alphonse loses his entire body. In order to bring back what they have lost, they embark on a journey to find the Philosopher’s Stone. The series explores themes such as sacrifice, redemption, and the consequences of power.
Neon Genesis Evangelion
Neon Genesis Evangelion is a groundbreaking anime series that has been praised for its unique and complex storytelling. The series follows a teenage boy named Shinji Ikari, who is recruited by his father to pilot a giant bio-machine called an Evangelion to fight mysterious beings known as Angels.
The series is known for its exploration of themes such as depression, isolation, and the meaning of existence. Neon Genesis Evangelion has been praised for its bold and innovative narrative, stunning animation, and memorable characters.
Cowboy Bebop
Cowboy Bebop is a classic anime series that has been praised for its compelling characters, stylish animation, and memorable soundtrack. The story follows a group of bounty hunters who travel through space in search of dangerous criminals.
The series is known for its unique blend of genres, including space western, film noir, and jazz music. Cowboy Bebop has been praised for its mature storytelling, engaging characters, and innovative animation.
Your Lie in April
Your Lie in April is a heart-wrenching anime series that has been praised for its emotional depth and stunning animation. The story follows a young pianist named Kosei Arima, who struggles to move on from the death of his mother, who was also his strict piano teacher.
He meets a violinist named Kaori Miyazono, who helps him rediscover his love for music and find the courage to face his past. Your Lie in April explores themes such as loss, grief, and the healing power of music.
Popular Anime Series with Massive Fanbases
If you’re familiar with anime, chances are you’ve heard of these popular anime series with massive fanbases. These shows have become a cultural phenomenon and have garnered a loyal following around the world.
First up is Naruto, a classic anime series that follows the journey of a young ninja as he strives to become the strongest in his village. With memorable characters, epic battles, and a coming-of-age story, Naruto has captured the hearts of fans for over 20 years.
| Anime Series | Description |
|---|---|
| Attack on Titan | An action-packed series that takes place in a dystopian world where humanity is fighting for survival against giant humanoid creatures called Titans. |
| Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba | This anime series follows a young boy’s quest to turn his demon-slaying sister back into a human while fighting off other demons along the way. |
| My Hero Academia | A superhero anime series that tells the story of a boy with no superpowers who dreams of becoming a hero in a world filled with heroes and villains. |
Another popular series is One Piece, a pirate-themed anime that has been on the air for over 20 years. The show follows the adventures of Monkey D. Luffy and his crew as they search for the legendary treasure known as One Piece.
“I think what makes One Piece so special is the strength of the characters and the bonds they share. It’s a story about friendship, loyalty, and following your dreams.”
Lastly, we have Dragon Ball, a classic anime series that has been around since the 1980s and has continued to inspire new generations of fans. The show follows the journey of Goku, a warrior with incredible powers, as he battles villains and saves the world.
These popular anime series have something for everyone, whether you’re looking for action-packed battles, heartwarming friendships, or epic adventures. It’s no wonder they have such massive fanbases!
Anime Series with Stunning Visuals and Animation
Anime series are renowned for their unique visual styles and stunning animation. These shows often use unconventional techniques to create breathtaking scenes and immerse viewers in the story. Here are some anime series that stand out for their exceptional visual quality:
Attack on Titan
Attack on Titan is a post-apocalyptic action anime that tells the story of humanity’s struggle against giant humanoid creatures known as Titans. The series features dynamic action scenes and fluid animation, which brings the intense battles to life. The detailed character designs and intricate backgrounds make each episode visually impressive.
Your Lie in April
Your Lie in April is a romantic drama anime that follows the journey of a prodigious pianist who loses his ability to hear the sound of his own playing after the death of his abusive mother. The series showcases stunning visual metaphors that symbolize the emotional struggles of the characters. The use of color and light adds to the series’ dream-like atmosphere.
Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood
Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood is a fantasy action anime that explores the concept of equivalent exchange and follows two brothers’ quest to restore their bodies after a failed alchemical experiment. The series features intricate world-building and detailed character designs. The use of visual effects and animation enhances the series’ dark and intense moments.
Death Note
Death Note is a psychological thriller anime that revolves around a high school student who gains the power to kill anyone whose name he writes in a supernatural notebook. The series features unique camera angles and transitions that add to the suspenseful atmosphere. The use of lighting and shadows creates a dark and eerie mood throughout the series.
If you’re looking for anime series that offer stunning visuals and animation, check out these shows and experience the beauty of anime storytelling.
Hidden Gems: Underrated Anime Series to Discover
While there are plenty of popular and critically acclaimed anime series to watch, there are also some hidden gems that have been overlooked. Here are two underrated anime series that are worth discovering:
Barakamon
Barakamon is a heartwarming slice-of-life anime series that follows Handa Seishuu, a calligrapher who moves to a remote island after a career setback. There, he learns valuable life lessons and forms meaningful relationships with the island’s colorful and quirky residents. The show is praised for its charming characters, beautiful animation, and uplifting themes of self-discovery and friendship.
Baccano!
Baccano! is a fast-paced action anime series set in the 1930s that revolves around a group of immortal gangsters, thieves, and assassins. The non-linear storytelling and multiple plotlines may be confusing at first, but the intriguing characters and intense action scenes make it a must-watch for fans of the genre. The show’s unique blend of humor, violence, and supernatural elements has earned it a cult following among anime enthusiasts.
If you’re looking for something new to watch, give these underrated anime series a chance.
Genre-Specific Best Anime Series
If you have a specific preference for anime genre, this section is for you. Here, we’ve narrowed down the best anime series within some of the most popular genres.
Action: Attack on Titan
Attack on Titan is a post-apocalyptic series set in a world where humanity lives within a walled city to protect themselves from the Titans, giant humanoid creatures who devour humans without reason. The show offers thrilling action scenes, a complex plot, and well-developed characters that make it one of the best action anime series of all time.
Romance: Your Lie in April
Your Lie in April is a heartwarming romance anime series that follows Kosei Arima, a former child prodigy pianist who meets a free-spirited violinist named Kaori Miyazono. Through music, they develop a deep bond that explores themes of loss, love, and grief. The series is known for its breathtaking animation, touching storyline, and memorable soundtrack.
Fantasy: Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood
Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood is a beloved fantasy anime that follows the journey of two brothers, Edward and Alphonse Elric, who use alchemy to try to bring their deceased mother back to life. Along the way, they uncover a government conspiracy and must confront dark forces that threaten their world. With a compelling storyline, strong themes, and incredible animation, Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood is a must-watch for fantasy fans.
Comedy: One Punch Man
One Punch Man is a hilarious comedy anime that parodies superhero tropes, with a unique twist. The protagonist, Saitama, is a seemingly ordinary man who gains incredible strength through rigorous training and can defeat any opponent with one punch. The show offers a funny, self-aware take on the superhero genre and features memorable characters, well-choreographed fight scenes, and excellent animation.
Most Anticipated Upcoming Anime Series
As we continue to enjoy the best anime series of all time, it’s also exciting to look forward to the newest releases. Here are some of the most anticipated upcoming anime series that are sure to delight fans:
| Title | Studio | Release Date |
|---|---|---|
| The Way of the Househusband | J.C. Staff | April 8, 2021 |
| Shaman King | Studio Bridge | April 1, 2021 |
| Tokyo Revengers | Liden Films | April 11, 2021 |
The Way of the Househusband follows the story of a former yakuza boss who retired from a life of crime to become a devoted househusband. Expect hilarious antics and heartwarming moments as he navigates his new role.
Shaman King is a reboot of the classic anime series that aired in 2001. The show follows a young boy who can communicate with ghosts and is competing in a tournament to become the Shaman King and save the world.
Tokyo Revengers tells the story of a young man who travels back in time to his middle school days to save his girlfriend and change his fate. With a mix of action, drama, and romance, this series is sure to captivate viewers.
These are just a few of the many upcoming anime series to look forward to. Keep an eye out for more exciting releases in the future!
Where to Watch the Best Anime Series
Are you ready to dive into the world of anime and discover the best series to watch? Luckily, there are several streaming platforms where you can access a vast collection of anime shows.
| Streaming Platform | Monthly Subscription | Offerings |
|---|---|---|
| Crunchyroll | $7.99 – $9.99 | Over 1,000 anime series and simulcast episodes, including popular titles like Attack on Titan, Naruto, and My Hero Academia. |
| Funimation | $5.99 – $7.99 | Stream anime series and movies dubbed in English, with over 700 series, including well-known titles like Dragon Ball Z, One Piece, and Fullmetal Alchemist. |
| Netflix | $8.99 – $17.99 | Offers a broad selection of anime series and movies, including originals like Castlevania, Devilman Crybaby, and Aggretsuko. |
| Hulu | $5.99 – $11.99 | Stream a variety of anime series and movies, including popular titles like Naruto, Bleach, and Sword Art Online. |
No matter which platform you choose, you’ll have access to a great collection of anime series. So, grab some popcorn, settle in, and immerse yourself in the captivating world of anime.
Conclusion
And there you have it, folks – the best anime series to watch right now! We hope this article has inspired you to explore the diverse world of anime and find your next favorite series. Whether you’re a seasoned anime fan or a newbie to the genre, there’s something for everyone on this list.
From critically acclaimed masterpieces to underrated hidden gems, we’ve covered it all. We’ve highlighted shows with stunning animation, captivating storytelling, and memorable characters that will keep you hooked from start to finish.
Don’t forget to check out the must-watch series for beginners, perfect for those looking to dip their toes into the anime world. And if you’re a fan of specific genres like action, romance, or fantasy, we’ve got you covered with our genre-specific recommendations.
Lastly, we’ve given you a glimpse into the future with our list of the most anticipated upcoming anime series. Get excited for what’s to come and stay tuned!
So what are you waiting for? Grab some popcorn, sit back, and enjoy the best anime series out there. Happy watching!
FAQ:
Q: What makes an anime series the best?
A: The best anime series stand out due to factors such as captivating storytelling, memorable characters, stunning animation, and unique themes. These elements contribute to the overall quality and appeal of the series.
Q: Which are the top 10 best anime series of all time?
A: Here is a curated list of the top 10 best anime series of all time:
Q: Which anime series are perfect for beginners?
A: For beginners, we recommend the following must-watch anime series:
Q: Which anime series have received critical acclaim?
A: The following anime series have been critically acclaimed and are definitely worth watching:
Q: Which anime series have massive fanbases?
A: These popular anime series have gained huge fanbases:
Q: Are there any anime series with stunning visuals and animation?
A: Yes, these anime series are known for their stunning visuals and animation:
Q: Are there any hidden gem anime series to discover?
A: Yes, these underrated anime series are hidden gems:
Q: Are there any genre-specific best anime series?
A: Absolutely! Check out the best anime series within specific genres:
Q: What are the most anticipated upcoming anime series?
A: Get excited for these highly anticipated upcoming anime series:
Q: Where can I watch the best anime series?
A: You can watch the best anime series on popular streaming platforms and websites like Crunchyroll, Funimation, Netflix, or Hulu.
