Shows like One Piece, Full Metal Alchemist, and Naruto have become industry staples. Today, we’ll examine the top 10 best anime series of all time according to fans worldwide – not to be mistaken with our own personal list of the best anime series of all time.
1. Code Geass
What is it about? Code Geass follows the story of Lelouch Lamperouge, the black prince of The Holy Empire of Britannia, who uses the power of the Geass to build a world based on his ideals. Lelouch was once known as Lelouch vi Britannia but was exiled, taking on his new alias. With this power and leading The Black Knights, he liberates all of Japan and starts a rebellion under the alias “Zero”. Unfortunately for him, he soon finds out that Geass is not only a gift but a curse as well.
What we like about it: Every anime fan knows why Code Geass is known as a legendary series. With its intense fight scenes, captivating storyline, and amazing character designs, it’s no wonder so many fans love it. But what’s more intriguing about this series is its surprising ending. Go watch the show and see for yourself why Code Geass offers the BEST ENDING in all of anime.
2. Naruto
If you thought that Naruto wouldn’t be making the list, you’re clearly not an anime fan. Naruto is one of the staples and an iconic series of the anime industry. It has shaped the childhood of so many fans and gone on to become legendary.
What is it about? The story is about a made-up world of ninjas called Shinobi. Naruto Uzumaki is the main character who wants to become a ninja master. He learns with his friends and other masters. In battles, ninjas use special techniques powered by chakra energy. Naruto looks different from his classmates, not just because of his yellow hair. He has unique marks because a strong demon is sealed inside him. He became a Jinchuriki, which means he carried the demon to protect the world from the Nine-Tails when he was born.
What we like about it: The series and the movies have some of the most relatable and yet diverse cast of characters. Even the villains in the franchise have captivating and emotional backstories. While it is one of those longer-running series, Naruto is a surefire way to get that big dose of nostalgia.
3. The Monogatari Series
As confusing as the watch order of The Monogatari Series is, there’s no doubt that this anime series is one of the greats and the best of all time. With the deep themes present all throughout the series, it definitely is for the more dedicated anime fans.
What is it about? The series follows Koyomi Araragi, a third-year high school student who becomes inexplicably entangled with a vampire after she attacks him. After that, he isn’t quite human. The Monogatari Series is a masterpiece that’ll touch the heart and captivate the soul.
What we like about it: The plot is the real selling point of this series. It combines mystery, romance, and even supernatural elements, making it one to watch.
4. Jujutsu Kaisen
Jujutsu Kaisen is a bit newer than others on this list, but it’s definitely worthy of its spot. The anime series has some of the most memorable fight scenes and the best character designs.
What is it about? Set in a world where cursed spirits roam, the main protagonist of the series is Yuji Itadori, a relatively normal boy until he becomes Sukuna’s vessel, a cursed spirit known as the Disgraced One, or the King of Curses. To protect others from harm, Yuji decides to join a secret organization of sorcerers called Jujutsu Sorcerers.
What we like about it: Jujutsu Kaisen’s portrayal of female characters is also very on-point, and it’s a bit rare to see that in most anime. The gritty and dark storyline also fits in perfectly. The writers are not afraid to kill off characters and shock the viewers to their core. Jujutsu Kaisen is definitely one of the top 10 best anime series of all time.
5. Attack on Titan
Not only well-known for having one of the most popular anime openings of all time with Shinzou wo sasageyo, but this franchise has also been the talk of most anime fans, especially since studio MAPPA picked up the job for turning the anime to the big screens. Despite the dispute about the change in studio, Attack on Titan has been a hit week by week.
What is it about? The story begins on Paradis Island, where people live inside huge walls to stay safe from Titans. But when two titans break-in, a war starts that lasts for almost 13 years. Eren Yeager becomes the main character, along with his best friend, Mikasa Ackerman. They join the Survey Corps, a team that goes outside the walls to learn about the Titan’s danger and get revenge for their destroyed home and Eren’s mother being eaten by a Titan. But as they fight Titans, they discover there’s a lot more to learn beyond the walls.
What we like about it: This series will have you on the edge of your chair with its jaw-clenching turn of events. Deserving its place in any top 10, Attack on Titan is undoubtedly one of the best and most epic anime series of all time.
6. One Piece
One Piece might be one of the longest-running anime series to this day. Hence, the high spot on this list. For a total of 20 years and counting since its launch in 1997, the franchise has been on top of the charts and garnered several awards along the way.
What is it about? The story is about Monkey D. Luffy, also known as Straw Hat Luffy and his pirate friends. They’re searching for the greatest treasure left by a famous pirate called Gold Roger. This treasure is called “One Piece,” which is also the name of the show. Luffy is the captain of the Straw Hat Pirates, and he wants to become the Pirate King to have the most freedom in the world. He seems to have inherited leadership skills from his father, Monkey D. Dragon, who leads the Revolutionary Army.
What we like about it: One thing that is commendable about the One Piece anime series is its well-written variety of strong characters.
7. Gintama
Gintama is an all-time favourite when it comes to brightening up the spectrum with its hilarious spills and shenanigans.
What is it about? Gintoki Sakata is the main protagonist of the series, a highly skilled samurai. He became known as the Shiroyasha—White Yaksha, a demon in Buddhism and Hinduism—a name given to him because of his demonic skills and swordsmanship, white clothing, and silver hair. This seems in complete opposition to the silly expression he usually wears.
What we like about it: It’s a no-brainer that this anime takes the second-highest spot as one of the top 10 best anime of all time since it is one of the best episodic series available. Fans of Gintama love its unique blend of humour, action, and heartfelt storytelling.
8. Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood
What is it about? Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood follows the journey of two brothers, Edward and Alphonse Elric, who use alchemy to try to restore their bodies after a failed attempt to resurrect their deceased mother. As they search for the Philosopher’s Stone, they uncover a vast conspiracy that threatens their world. Along the way, they encounter friends, foes, and moral dilemmas that challenge their beliefs. The series explores themes of sacrifice, redemption, and the consequences of seeking power.
What we like about it: Action, powers, philosophical themes, a rollercoaster ride on relatable human emotions—the list goes on! The quest of the Elric brothers to reinstate their bodies is a front-seat ticket you won’t regret watching. The story’s play on fantasy worlds and dwelling on the many aspects of the human experience shapes it.
9. Dragon Ball Z
What is it about? A strong, young warrior named Goku, along with his friends, are tasked with defending their planet from an onslaught of attacks from extraterrestrial enemies. But things aren’t as straightforward as they are on paper, with Goku learning that he, too, is from another planet and a huge number of twists through the show’s ’90s run.
What we like about it: Iconic characters, epic battles, and compelling storylines! Most kids growing up in the ’90s would have watched or come across Dragon Ball Z. It was a huge hit back then and continues to have a strong following today. A top 10 anime list wouldn’t be complete without mentioning the franchise.
10. Hunter x Hunter
For many, Yoshihiro Togashi‘s Hunter x Hunter is the best (or at least one of the top 10) anime series of all time — even if it seems a lot like Dragon Ball.
What is it about? The show ties together themes of power, our connections to each other and our humanity in a story that could feel overwhelming for some. It tells the story of Gon Freecss, a 12-year-old boy rookie hunter who seeks to reconnect with his long-lost father and discovers he is a world-renowned Hunter (a unique individual capable of tracking down secret treasures and rare beasts). Along the way, our young hero meets other hunters and encounters the paranormal. Gon is athletic, adventurous and not the smartest, but he seems to have a heart of gold. Having grown up in a rustic environment, he is great with animals and incredibly determined. But does Gon have what it takes to become a hunter himself?
What we like about it: The show’s emphasis on strategy and intelligence in battles, rather than sheer power (even though there are many strong HxH characters), sets it apart from other shonen anime. Voted as the 16th best anime of 2000 in the Animage Anime Grand Prix, both the art and the animation of Hunter x Hunter has been praised by critics and fans.
Tell us, what are your top 10 best anime series of all time, and do you agree with the list?
