Unforgettable Stories, Iconic Characters, and Legendary Moments
These top anime on the list below have become so popular because they feature strong plots that don’t rely too heavily on animation or fight scenes, even though those elements are often nearly perfect in these series. (Except for Demon Slayer, more on that here…)
1. Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood
Genre: Action, Adventure, Drama, Fantasy
Synopsis: Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood tells the story of two brothers, Edward and Alphonse Elric, who commit the forbidden art of human transmutation to bring their mother back to life. The disastrous attempt leaves Edward losing his arm and leg, while Alphonse’s soul is bound to a suit of armor. To restore their bodies, they embark on a quest for the Philosopher’s Stone, only to discover a deeper conspiracy involving the military,alchemy, and the very nature of life itself.
Why it’s great: It does not pull any punches and the emotional aspect of this anime is stronger because unlike a lot of others when something bad happens it can’t be reversed.
2. Attack on Titan (Shingeki no Kyojin)
Genre: Action, Drama, Fantasy, Mystery, Psychological
Synopsis: Set in a world where humanity is on the brink of extinction due to giant creatures known as Titans, Attack on Titan follows Eren Yeager and his friends Mikasa and Armin as they join the military to defend the last remnants of civilization behind towering walls. As they uncover the secrets of the Titans and the truth behind their world, Eren and his friends must confront the horrors of war, freedom, and the morality of survival.
Why it’s great: Known for its shocking plot twists, intense action sequences, and deep psychological themes, Attack on Titan explores the human condition through the lens of freedom, sacrifice, and the devastating effects of war.
3. Death Note
Genre: Psychological, Thriller, Supernatural, Mystery
Synopsis: Death Note follows Light Yagami, a brilliant high school student who discovers a supernatural notebook that allows him to kill anyone whose name he writes in it. Armed with this god-like power, Light sets out to rid the world of criminals and create a utopia ruled by him. However, his actions attract the attention of L, a genius detective who embarks on a high-stakes game of wits to stop Light’s killing spree.
Why it’s great: A masterclass in suspense and intellect, Death Note presents a fascinating exploration of justice, morality, and the consequences of absolute power. The intellectual duel between Light and L is one of the best in anime history.
4. Steins;Gate
Genre: Sci-Fi, Psychological, Thriller
Synopsis:
Rintarou Okabe, a self-proclaimed mad scientist, and his friends accidentally invent a time-travel device. What begins as harmless experimentation soon spirals into a dangerous game of altering timelines, leading to catastrophic consequences. Okabe must grapple with the psychological cost of changing history and the personal toll it takes on his friends.
Why it’s great: Steins;Gate stands out for its intricate plotting, emotional depth, and exploration of time travel, fate, and the butterfly effect. It’s a thought-provoking ride that challenges the boundaries of reality and human sacrifice.
5. Naruto / Naruto Shippuden
Genre: Action, Adventure, Fantasy, Martial Arts
Synopsis:
Naruto Uzumaki is a young ninja with a big dream: to become the Hokage, the strongest and most respected leader of his village, the Hidden Leaf Village. Born with the Nine-Tailed Fox sealed inside him, Naruto struggles to earn the respect of his peers while protecting his village from powerful enemies. The sequel series, Naruto Shippuden, follows Naruto’s journey into adolescence as he faces greater threats, like the rogue group Akatsuki, and uncovers his true potential.
Why it’s great: A legendary story of friendship, perseverance, and the quest for personal growth. The series explores deep themes of self-identity, the power of bonds, and the pursuit of one’s dreams.
6. Neon Genesis Evangelion
Genre: Mecha, Psychological, Drama, Sci-Fi
Synopsis:
In a world devastated by a global catastrophe, the remnants of humanity rely on Evas, giant bio-mechanical robots, to protect themselves from mysterious Angels. Shinji Ikari, a reluctant teenager, is chosen to pilot one of these Evas and is thrust into a battle that transcends physical combat. As Shinji and his fellow pilots confront Angels, they are also forced to face their inner demons, including deep psychological trauma and existential despair.
Why it’s great: Evangelion deconstructs the mecha genre and delves into complex themes of mental health, identity, human relationships, and existentialism, making it a revolutionary anime in the 90s.
7. One Piece
Genre: Adventure, Action, Fantasy
Synopsis:
Monkey D. Luffy and his diverse crew of pirates travel across the vast seas in search of the One Piece, the legendary treasure that will make Luffy the Pirate King. Along the way, they face rival pirates, dangerous marine forces, and powerful enemies, all while building friendships and pursuing their own dreams.
Why it’s great: One Piece is a sprawling, epic adventure that masterfully combines humor, action, and emotional depth. Its world-building, unique characters, and themes of freedom and ambition have made it one of the most enduring anime of all time.
8. My Hero Academia (Boku no Hero Academia)
Genre: Action, Superhero, Drama, School
Synopsis:
In a world where nearly everyone possesses a quirk (superpower), Izuku Midoriya is born without one, but he still dreams of becoming a great hero like his idol, All Might. After inheriting All Might’s power, Midoriya enrolls at U.A. High School, where students train to become professional heroes. Alongside his classmates, he faces growing threats from villains, uncovers the true meaning of heroism, and strives to make a difference.
Why it’s great: A modern superhero story with a fresh take on the genre, My Hero Academia explores heroism, self-worth, and the responsibility that comes with power, all while delivering exciting battles and heartfelt moments.
9. Cowboy Bebop
Genre: Sci-Fi, Action, Neo-noir
Synopsis:
In a futuristic world where humanity has colonized space, Spike Spiegel, a bounty hunter, roams the galaxy aboard the spaceship Bebop with his ragtag crew. Each episode follows the crew’s hunt for criminals, while unraveling the emotional complexities of their pasts. Combining action, sci-fi, and jazz, Cowboy Bebop is both a thrilling ride and an existential reflection on life, loss, and redemption.
Why it’s great: With its captivating characters, stylish animation, and unforgettable jazz soundtrack, Cowboy Bebop is a timeless classic that blends action and philosophical themes.
10. Demon Slayer (Kimetsu no Yaiba)
Genre: Action, Supernatural, Fantasy
Synopsis: After his family is slaughtered by demons, Tanjiro Kamado embarks on a journey to avenge his loved ones and save his demon-turned sister, Nezuko. As a new recruit to the Demon Slayer Corps, Tanjiro faces terrifying demons, uncovering the dark origins of their existence while battling powerful foes. Along the way, he learns the meaning of family, sacrifice, and the price of revenge.
Why it’s great: Stunning animation, emotional depth, and intense action make Demon Slayer a recent hit, while its exploration of family and perseverance resonates deeply with viewers.
Why These 10 Anime Stand Above the Rest
The top anime we’ve covered represent the best of the medium, blending emotional depth, innovative storytelling, and iconic characters. Whether you’re seeking an epic adventure, a psychological thriller, or a heartwarming tale of friendship and self-discovery, these anime deliver unforgettable experiences. Through themes of sacrifice, dreams, freedom, and identity, each series explores the complexities of life, making them timeless classics that continue to influence both fans and creators worldwide. For a longer list visit our top 25 anime list.
