Through thrilling confrontations and massive battles, action series have been a gateway into anime for a long time. The main culprits behind the always increasing popularity are shows most of your acquaintances have been hooked on at some point in their lives.
Action anime is about conflict, thrilling confrontations, car chases, and epic battles. It’s heart-pumping action, nail-biting suspense, trigger happy characters, and a love to hate or hate to love villains.
The action genre thrives in anime. There are plenty of thrills in the best action anime, whether it’s explosions, giant robot fights, or a clash of swords. This, however, is not everything audiences can expect from action anime. The best action anime also deliver emotional scenes.
One of the wonderful things about action anime is that it has become one of the most popular genres. As a result, a lot of series are available to viewers. This luxury is a double-edged sword. Anime newcomers may not know where to begin. This list is a great place to start for anyone looking to watch the best action anime. Anime veterans and those looking for the best action anime will want to ensure that each series on this list is consumed in its entirety.
1. Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood
Alphonse and Edward are left to fend for themselves in a catastrophic new world after a horrific alchemy experiment goes horribly wrong. Despite the alchemical principle prohibiting the transmutation of humans, the boys attempted to resurrect their recently deceased mother. Rather, they suffered brutal personal losses in the process: Alphonse’s body disintegrated, while Edward sacrificed an arm to keep Alphonse’s soul bound to a suit of armor.
Pinako Rockbell and her granddaughter Winry rescue the brothers. The biomechanical engineering prodigy Winry uses “automail,” a tough, versatile metal used in robots and combat armor, to make prosthetic limbs for Edward. Following years of training, the Elric brothers went on a quest for the Philosopher’s Stone, a powerful gem that allows alchemists to defy the traditional laws of Equivalent Exchange.
A growing conspiracy threatens the world as Edward becomes an infamous alchemist and gains the nickname “Fullmetal.”.
The story doesn’t lose momentum because there have been no fillers. Each episode is condensed within the huge plot, and every scene has significance. Dialogue is straightforward, and there is no unnecessary exposition.
As multiple characters are explored, there are many side stories explored as well, but they all subtly weave into the Elric brothers’ story and, more often than not, directly affect their journey. As with most anime series, there are moments from the manga that are omitted, but these tend to be just comical.
A testament to how much it draws you into the story and characters is how short each episode feels.
2. Shingeki no Kyojin
Humanity was nearly wiped out by monstrous humanoid creatures called titans centuries ago, forcing humans to hide in fear behind enormous concentric walls. The thing that makes these giants so terrifying is that their taste for human flesh seems to be purely pleasure-driven, not hunger-driven.
After a century without encountering a titan, remnants of humanity began living within defensive barriers to ensure their survival. This fragile peace is soon shattered when a colossal titan penetrates the supposedly impregnable outer wall, reigniting the struggle for survival.
Eren Yeager loses his family to the invading creature, so he dedicates his life to their eradication and enlists in the Survey Corps, an elite military unit that combats the merciless humanoids outside the walls of the city.
As Eren, along with his adopted sister Mikasa Ackerman and childhood friend Armin Arlert take on the titans in Shingeki no Kyojin, they race to find a way to defeat them before the last walls are breached.
In Shingeki no Kyojin, we find all the key points that we hope every series will have. This anime is fantastic. It has one of the most fascinating stories you will ever see.
The anime’s characters are one of its strongest points. Each character fights for humanity for various reasons.
Trust, friendship, betrayal, and pain all coexist. There are many comic relief characters. Despite wanting to protect their friends, the characters seem powerless to do so due to fear. All of us are plagued by fear, and it prevents us from doing things in life.
3. Hunter x Hunter (2011)
In Hunter x Hunter, hunters are required to perform all kinds of dangerous tasks like capturing criminals and searching for lost treasures in uncharted territories. The young Gon Freecss is determined to become the best Hunter possible in hopes of finding his father, who was a Hunter himself and abandoned his son long ago. Nevertheless, Gon soon realizes that the path to achieving his goals is more challenging than he ever imagined.
As Gon strives to become an official Hunter, he befriends the vibrant doctor-in-training Leorio, the vengeful Kurapika, and the rebellious ex-assassin Killua. They all take the Hunter Exam together in order to achieve their own goals and desires, an exam infamous for its low success rate and high death rate.
On their journey, Gon and his friends face many hardships and struggles. There will be a plethora of monsters, creatures, and characters, as well as lessons about what it means to be a Hunter.
It may seem simple to find one’s father, but the journey taken to get there is what makes this series so special. In HxH, there are several well-written arcs. The script is one of the finest examples of the shounen genre; the depth and flow of the story, interesting characters, and vivid world-building provide a captivating tale that can captivate its audience for hours on end.
Variety is one of the most impressive aspects of HxH’s story. There are six story arcs in HxH, which cross several genres. Moreover, the series is also capable of undergoing significant tonal shifts with ease. Overall, the series does an excellent job of keeping its viewers interested. You’ll find yourself breezing through most episodes by the time you finish watching them.
4. One Piece
Known as the “Pirate King,” Gol D. Roger was the strongest and most infamous person to have sailed the Grand Line. Roger’s capture and execution by the World Government sparked a change in the world. One Piece was his last words before his death, revealing the existence of the greatest treasure in the world.
This discovery led to the grand age of pirates, as men dreamed of finding One Piece, which promised unlimited riches and fame, and quite possibly the pinnacle of glory and the title of Pirate King.
A 17-year-old boy named Monkey D. Luffy defies your standard definition of a pirate. Instead of being a wicked, hardened, toothless pirate who raids villages for fun, Luffy’s motivation for becoming a pirate is an exhilarating adventure that leads him to intriguing people and, finally, to a treasure trove.
After following in the footsteps of his childhood hero, Luffy and his crew journey across the Grand Line to uncover dark mysteries, battle powerful enemies, and win the most coveted of all fortunes: One Piece.
You will fall in love with each new member as Luffy discovers them. They each have their own personality and interesting backstory. As they strive to achieve their dreams, the crew is always finding new adventures and getting into trouble. The main story arcs also introduce new minor characters, and they are just as fun and easy to love as the Straw Hat crew.
The characters are not left out or feel as if they are there without purpose. It’s wonderful about One Piece that these ‘purposes’ often reappear at later points in the series.
5. Gintama
Alien invaders, the Amanto, have taken over feudal Japan. The result was a prohibition on swords, and the samurai of Japan have been treated with disregard as a result.
However, one man, Gintoki Sakata, has the heart of a samurai, despite the fact that he loves sweets and works as a yorozuya. Shinpachi Shimura, a man with glasses and a mighty heart, Kagura, a woman with an umbrella and a seemingly bottomless stomach, and Sadaharu, their oversized pet dog, are all with him in his jack-of-all-trades line of work. Their jobs are not always easy, as they frequently have run-ins with the law, rebels, and assassins, which sometimes results in humorous but unfortunate outcomes.
It’s not easy being an errand boy, is it?
Although the story is haphazard, Gintama is consistent in its approach. Gintoki and Shimura Shinpachi and Kagura, his friends, take on odd jobs for people, argue or fight with the Shinsengumi, drink strawberry milkshakes, and do their little bit to make the world a better place.
Most episodes don’t go any further than that. The haphazard approach to the story in Gintama is a deliberate measure that works well because it is a comedy series. Although some story arcs occur throughout the course of the show, Gintama never loses its sense of humor despite its serious and dramatic content.
A major strength of this series is the comedy, not just in its style and delivery but also in its content. Although the series is packed with parodies, it is always engaging so that the viewer doesn’t feel like a joke has gone over their heads.
6. Code Geass: Hangyaku no Lelouch
2010 is the year when the Holy Empire of Britannia is establishing itself as a dominant military power, starting with the conquest of Japan. As a result of its snap defeat, Japan became known as Area 11 and has been fighting back against these tyrants ever since.
A Britannian student named Lelouch Lamperouge, unfortunately, is caught in the crossfire between the rebels and the Britannians. However, he escapes thanks to the timely appearance of a mysterious girl named C.C., who bestows upon him Geass, the “Power of Kings.” Realizing the potential of his new power, he embarks on a perilous journey as Zero, a masked vigilante out for revenge.
The story in Code Geass isn’t particularly noteworthy or unique. The storyline is basically straightforward and even cliche, but that’s precisely why the series is so well-done–everything is handled in a refreshing, new way that grabs the viewer’s attention. A story like this has enough twists and turns for you to never lose interest.
The characters in this series are quite diverse. While some are very plain and one-dimensional, others have an amazing level of complexity that makes them seem very life-like.
A very human character, Lelouch is filled with emotions, opinions, a unique point of view, and a number of very serious flaws that make him easy to relate to and sympathize with.
Character-wise, his is one of the most complex in the series, and he feels real, despite his supernatural powers and genius intellect. His ability to make the audience relate to him is probably the series’ biggest strength, and it’s the main reason why the story remains relevant and interesting.
7. Cowboy Bebop
In the year 2071, several planets and moons of the solar system have been colonized by humanity, leaving Earth’s uninhabitable surface. As part of its effort to keep peace in the galaxy, the Inter Solar System Police relies on outlaw bounty hunters, known as “Cowboys.” The ragtag crew aboard the spaceship Bebop is one of these individuals.
Combined with his boisterous and pragmatic partner Jet Black, Spike Spiegel makes a living chasing bounties and collecting rewards. With new members joining them on their journey – Ein, a genetically modified, highly intelligent Welsh Corgi; Faye Valentine, an enigmatic trickster with memory loss; and Edward Wong, a computer genius-the crew embarks on thrilling adventures that unravel each member’s dark and mysterious past little by little.
In addition to being a space western classic, Cowboy Bebop is a homage to the smooth and improvised music it is named after.
Every episode brings about a new bounty on which they’re after, and while 26 straight episodes may not seem exciting, you’ll come to love this show. As a result of all the different events, the outcome is often unpredictable, and you wonder how it will all end.
The way in which the main cast’s pasts are explored is one of the things that sets the show apart from the rest. It isn’t like watching one flashback episode and then understanding how they are today.
You might get one piece in one episode, the next in another, and everything falls into place only in the final three episodes. By executing it in this way, it makes you want to watch another episode to learn more about the characters.
8. Vinland Saga
Thorfinn grew up hearing the stories of old sailors who had traveled the ocean and reached the fabled land of Vinland. His home is said to be warm and fertile, a place without fighting-not like the frozen village in Iceland where he was born, and certainly not like his current life as a mercenary. His home is war. Although his father once told him, “You have no enemies, nobody does. There is nobody who it’s okay to hurt,” as he grew, Thorfinn knew that nothing was further from the truth.
The war between England and the Danes grows worse with each passing year. Death has become commonplace, and the viking mercenaries are loving every moment of it. Allying with either side will cause a massive swing in the balance of power, and the vikings are happy to make names for themselves and take any spoils they earn along the way.
Among the chaos, Thorfinn must take his revenge and kill Askeladd, the man who murdered his father. The only paradise for the vikings, it seems, is the ongoing war and death.
Vinland Saga carries a powerful feeling. You are watching a monumental history unfold, regardless of how accurate the events are. Despite being frustrating at times, it is engrossing in the end. It tells the story of Viking pride, loss of innocence, betrayal, and the quest for the biggest bounty.
Rather than focusing exclusively on the main characters, the script often follows a number of mercenaries; they discuss their past battles and observe other characters. A good story can be told at a slow pace. This anime is impressive in many aspects, with beautifully drawn artwork, a realistic setting, and creative writing.
9. Jujutsu Kaisen
As Yuuji Itadori indulges in paranormal activities with the Occult Club, he spends his days either at the clubroom or at the hospital visiting his bedridden grandfather. When he unknowingly encounters a cursed item, his leisurely lifestyle takes a turn for the strange.
In a series of supernatural events triggered by swallowing the item, Yuuji finds himself thrust into the world of Curses, which consist of dreadful beings formed out of human malice and negativity. It turns out that the item is a finger belonging to the demon Sukuna Ryoumen, the “King of Curses.”
Yuuji experiences first-hand the threat these Curses pose to society as he discovers his own newfound powers. Introduced to the Tokyo Metropolitan Jujutsu Technical High School, he begins to walk down a path from which he cannot return—the path of a Jujutsu sorcerer.
Since its inception, Jujutsu Kaisen has been very popular. No matter whether you are a shounen fan or not, you will enjoy this show. The show goes beyond mere shounen.
The plot of Jujutsu Kaisen is not lacking. The main character in this story does not want to become the leader of the village, group, etc. The story is about a boy who wants to die peacefully, who wants to help others and make them happy, and to be remembered for his good deeds. Having a connection with a character can make watching a show even more enjoyable, and this is another great aspect of this anime.
The power system and world-building in Jujutsu Kaisen are unique and intriguing. The power system is based on cursed energy. Cursed energy is the result of negative emotions or spiteful intentions. Through these negative emotions, negative energy is manufactured and can be used for attacks. There’s more to come from this anime, and it will leave you satisfied overall.
10. Naruto
Kyuubi, the Nine-Tailed Fox demon, attacked Konohagakure, the Hidden Leaf Village, moments before Naruto Uzumaki was born. As a means of stopping the Kyuubi’s rampage, the village leader, the Fourth Hokage, sacrificed his life and sealed the monster inside the newborn Naruto.
Naruto is now a hyperactive and knucklehead ninja living in Konohagakure. Due to the Kyuubi inside him, Naruto struggles to find his place in the village, while his burning desire to become the Hokage of Konohagakure leads him not just to some great new friends but also to some deadly foes.
This is an action anime with martial arts fight sequences and a tone that occasionally shifts between serious and lighthearted, depending on the background and buildup. Naruto is a hero you can relate to, and even his supporting cast is well written. The characters also grow as the series progresses.
The character development in Naruto sets it apart from other shounen anime and puts it among the best in its category. It captures both the thrill of being a child and the pain of being lonely with finesse. The tone of the show shifts between dramatic and humorous, causing you to experience a roller coaster of emotions.
In addition to being packed with action, Naruto also contains some of the greatest battles ever written and drawn in anime history. Many of the dialogues end up going down in history as life-changing quotes because of the depth of the writing.
Naruto is a show that every anime fan has either watched or is familiar with; it’s a true shounen classic.
11. JoJo no Kimyou na Bouken
Dario Brando saves the life of English nobleman George Joestar in 1868. Taking in Dario’s son Dio after the boy loses his father is George’s attempt to repay his savior. However, Dio, dissatisfied with his station in life, wants to take the Joestar house for himself. Through the use of an Aztec stone mask with supernatural properties, he sets out to destroy George and his son, Jonathan “JoJo” Joestar, causing a series of events that will reverberate through time.
Almost half a century later, Jonathan’s grandson Joseph Joestar discovers his grandfather’s legacy in New York City. When an archeological dig uncovers the truth behind the stone mask, he realizes that he will be the only one able to defeat the Pillar Men, mystical beings of immeasurable power who accidentally began everything.
In JoJo no Kimyou na Bouken, we follow the many thrilling expeditions of JoJo and his descendants. It’s always a bizarre adventure, whether you’re battling the evil Dio or the sinister Pillar Men.
In contrast to most shounen anime titles currently available, this show combines dark comics with a wacky and serious tone, and the thing about this show is that it can change between those two very well.
Throughout this anime, the story and characters are well developed to the point that they seem so natural, with all of the characters having strengths and weaknesses. An anime full of style, charisma, and self-awareness, this title proves that you don’t need complexity to create an engaging story, so long as you’re committed and there’s passion behind it.
12. Kimetsu no Yaiba
Since his father died, Tanjirou Kamado has been responsible for supporting the family. The Kamado family leads a relatively peaceful and happy life despite living in poverty on a remote mountain. Trying to make some extra money, Tanjirou decides to go down to the local village and sell charcoal.
While returning home, Tanjirou is forced to seek shelter in the house of a strange man, who warns him that flesh-eating demons lurk in the woods at night.
The next day, he finds his entire family slaughtered when he arrives back home. The only survivor is his sister Nezuko, who has been turned into a bloodthirsty demon. Tanjirou swears to avenge his family and be with his only remaining sibling, consumed by rage and hatred.
Alongside the mysterious group calling themselves the Demon Slayer Corps, Tanjirou will do whatever it takes to slay the demons and protect the remnants of his beloved sister’s humanity.
A show need not always have a complex plot or a large cast of characters to be good. Kimetsu no Yaiba is one example. To fans of dark fantasy adventures, it is a love letter.
Our main protagonist, Tanjirou Kamado, is a pretty straightforward character, just like the narrative. Tanjirou is kind, gentle, and selfless.
While his determination in the face of overwhelming odds is admirable, it is very typical of protagonists in shounen. Among his most defining characteristics is his love for his family. The only family he has left, he will do anything to keep his sister, Nezuko, safe.
13. Kiseijuu: Sei no Kakuritsu
It all happened so quickly: parasitic aliens descended on Earth and began enslaving humanity by burrowing into the brains of vulnerable individuals. The insatiable creatures can morph into various forms in order to feed on unsuspecting prey.
Shinichi Izumi, a 16-year-old high school student, is victim to one of these parasites, but it doesn’t take over his brain, instead ending up in his right hand. The parasite, now called Migi, has no choice but to rely on Shinichi for survival. In this way, the pair is forced to live in uneasy harmony and defend themselves against parasites that hope to eradicate this threat to their species.
In classic sci-fi stories, you’ve probably heard of aliens that can steal bodies to impersonate humans and walk among us. The premise of Kiseijuu is built on the foundations of science fiction and body horror. Kiseijuu really sets the bar high just from its first episode, thanks to its engaging premise.
What makes this series’ story stand out quite a bit is the ability to convey human nature and focus on more than just outlandish battles for survival. It shows the best and worst of what humans can do while also balancing out how parasites can behave.
Sometimes, there’s almost a similarity, while others stand in sharp contrast. For Shinchi, he undergoes big changes as the story progresses with certain events that create tragic scars in his life. These changes are reflected both physically and mentally.
14. Tengen Toppa Gurren Lagann
In an underground village, hidden from the surface, Simon and Kamina were born and raised. While Kamina is a free-spirited loose cannon bent on making a name for himself, Simon is a timid youngster with no real aspirations. As Simon excavates the Earth one day, he finds a mysterious object which is the ignition key to an ancient artifact that he and his companions name Lagann.
Assisted by Yoko Littner, a hot-blooded redhead wielding a huge gun, Simon and Kamina fend off a surprise attack from the surface with their new weapon.
Simon and Kamina begin exploring the wastelands of the surface together with Yoko after the battle, now that the sky is clearly visible. The trio soon joins the fight against the “Beastmen,” humanoids who terrorize the last remnants of civilization in powerful robots called “Gunmen.” Despite some challenges and setbacks, the trio bravely fights against these new enemies while slowly unraveling a galaxy-sized mystery.
Gurren Lagann is simply breathtaking. It is an endlessly thrilling journey from humble beginnings to the most fantastic of endings—an absolute must-see. Throughout the series, there are so many memorable moments, lines, and ideas that they imprint themselves into your very soul.
Although Tengen Toppa has an amazing story, it is not about the story. This isn’t a logical progression, strategy, conflict of interests, world-building, sci-fi exploration, or any of the other ideas in it. It’s about the deconstruction of them all. Aspects of the show arouse and reinforce the viewer’s zeal for this cause. Tengen Toppa is also excellent at moving people emotionally. When you watch it, you will laugh, cry, and be moved.
15. Kenpuu Denki Berserk
Born from the corpse of his mother, a young mercenary known only as Guts embraces the battlefield as his only means of survival. Day in and day out, putting his life on the line just to make enough to get by, he moves from one bloodshed to the next.
After a run-in with the Band of the Hawk, a formidable troop of mercenaries, Guts is recruited by their charismatic leader Griffith, nicknamed the “White Hawk.” As he quickly climbed the ranks in order to become the head of the offensive faction, Guts proves to be a mighty addition to Griffith’s force, taking Midland by storm. However, while the band’s quest for recognition continues, Guts slowly realizes that the world is not as black-and-white as he once assumed.
Kenpuu Denki Berserk takes place during the medieval era and is a dark, gritty tale that follows one man’s struggle to find his own path while supporting another’s lust for power and the unimaginable tragedy that begins to turn the wheels of fate.
In a world filled with evil and brutality, dreams and despair, people try to find themselves in the midst of it all and define the meaning of their lives. The friendships and love in Berserk are not easily found, but when they do arrive, they’ll make you cry, for the relationships are more meaningful than anything you’ll find in anime.
This anime’s greatest strengths are its story and characters. These two elements grow simultaneously, making the world of Berserk very lively. A lot of anime cliches are avoided here, making the story and characters more compelling. Berserk captures a great deal of realism for an anime with its unique and lively world.
16. One Punch Man
Saitama, who seems ordinary and unimpressive, has a rather unique hobby: he is a superhero. In pursuit of his childhood dream, he trained relentlessly for three years, losing all of his hair in the process. Now, Saitama is so powerful that no enemy is able to defeat him in battle. As a result of defeating evildoers with just one punch, he is no longer able to enjoy the thrill of battle and is becoming quite bored.
Until Genos arrives, a 19-year-old cyborg who wishes to be Saitama’s disciple after seeing what he is capable of. When Genos suggests that the two join the Hero Association, he is shocked to learn nobody knows who Saitama is, and he quickly agrees.
In One Punch Man, a Japanese action-comedy, we follow an eccentric individual who longs to face opponents strong enough to give him the excitement he once felt, and maybe, along the way, he will become popular.
There is a lot of power in Saitama. It’s boring to be the strongest. The concept of looking for someone stronger or at least entertaining through life is a funny one, especially when no one is aware of how strong you are.
It’s impossible not to like Saitama, even the secondary and tertiary characters. It doesn’t have great character development, but that’s not what you’re looking for in this anime. Saitama is the strongest character. It’s meant to be that way.
While watching an episode, it’s easy to lose yourself in it, and you won’t believe how fast time moves when you’re entertained.
17. Samurai Champloo
A young and clumsy waitress, Fuu Kasumi spends her days peacefully working in a small teahouse. It’s all fine until she accidentally spills a drink all over one of her customers! A group of samurai now relentlessly harasses Fuu, but she calls on another samurai in the shop, Mugen, who quickly defeats them using his wild fighting technique, using movements similar to breakdancing.
Mugen chooses to fight against the unwilling ronin Jin, wielding a more precise and traditional style of sword-fighting, but the latter proves to be a formidable opponent. Sadly, they end up destroying the entire shop as well as killing the local magistrate’s son as a result.
As a result of their crimes, the two samurai are captured and ordered to be executed. Fuu, however, rescues them and hires the duo as her bodyguards. Despite no longer having a home to return to, the former waitress wishes to find a certain samurai who smells of sunflowers and enlists the help of the now exonerated pair.
Despite their initial reluctance, the two eventually agree to help the girl in her quest; and so, the trio sets off on an adventure to find this mysterious warrior–that is, if Fuu can keep Mugen and Jin from killing each other.
Samurai Champloo follows three eccentric individuals in an epic quest full of action, comedy, and sword fighting, all set to a unique hip-hop soundtrack infused with Japanese culture.
The samurai action in Champloo is sure to appeal to fans. Everyone can enjoy it. A good mix of sword-slashing action, clever comedy, and touching moments that will pull at your heartstrings – often at the same time. You cannot miss this anime classic if you like anime.
18. Mob Psycho 100
The eighth-grader Shigeo “Mob” Kageyama has demonstrated psychic abilities at a young age. As he realizes the potential danger in his skills, the power quickly becomes a liability. With his power suppressed, Mob’s only current use for his abilities is to impress Tsubomi, his longtime crush, who soon becomes bored of his tricks.
To gain control over his abilities, Mob enlists Arataka Reigen, a con artist who pretends Mob’s daily routine now includes exorcising evil spirits on command. As a result, exorcising evil spirits has become a regular part of Mob’s routine.
In spite of his psychic energy, it is merely the tip of the iceberg. If his unrestrained emotions run berserk, a cataclysmic event may occur that would render him completely unrecognizable. An attempt to stop Mob’s explosion is futile because the progression is rising.
Mob Psycho 100 can be described in a million ways. In one word, it’s exciting. At first, the story may seem simplistic, and in the beginning, it is, but the series begins to explore a variety of topics, such as morality and what it means to be different. However, the story is not just about Mob alone, but also about other characters.
As far as anime is concerned, Mob Psycho 100 looks and feels very different. Style-wise, it’s very over-the-top, exaggerated, and weird, and it fits the tone of the series. You won’t see its style very often, so it’s supposed to be weird and quirky. However, the series is much more than a comedy. In the series, there are a number of moments when things get serious and emotional.
19. Bleach
A high school student named Ichigo Kurosaki is attacked by a corrupt spirit that seeks to devour human souls. Rukia Kuchiki, the Soul Reaper who protected Ichigo’s family from the attacker, then gets injured in the process of protecting Ichigo. After accepting Rukia’s offer, Ichigo becomes a Soul Reaper in order to save his family.
However, since Rukia is unable to regain her powers, Ichigo is given the daunting task of hunting down the Hollows that plague their town. However, he is not alone in his battle, as classmates Orihime Inoue, Yasutora Sado, and Uryuu Ishida later join him, each with their own special abilities.
Ichigo finds out that the Hollows are not the only threat to humanity as he and his comrades become accustomed to their new duties and support each other both on and off the battlefield.
Bleach is a great anime series. From the moment you watch it, you wonder what will happen next. The action and humor are both excellent. The plot is captivating. There are many plot twists. This anime has an excellent cast of characters.
Since they’re all so lovable, you can’t say you hate them all. The characters aren’t all the same, unlike some other anime. The characters all have very different looks and personalities.
One of the first names that come to mind when we talk about shounen anime is Bleach and for good reason. Watching this anime is a great combination of action, adventure, and comedy. It is a must-see for fans of anime. The anime Bleach is probably one of the greatest anime series today.
20. Yuu☆Yuu☆Hakusho
As a 14-year-old delinquent facing an uncertain future, Yuusuke Urameshi rescues a young boy from a moving car after throwing himself in front of it on one fateful day. The spirit realm has not yet approved of his ultimate sacrifice because it is so out of character for him.
Yuusuke is given the opportunity to regain his life through the completion of a series of tasks by Koenma, the heir to the spirit realm. The death god Botan guides him in the role of Spirit Detective, who battles evil presences on Earth.
Yuusuke recruits ex-rival Kazuma Kuwabara, as well as two demons with criminal backgrounds, Hiei and Kurama, to help him on his quest. Each of them trains and battles against enemies who threaten humanity’s very existence.
Yu Yu Hakusho is a highly recommended show in this category for anyone who enjoys well-constructed fighting/action anime in general. Because the anime is a shounen, it contains some typical shounen clichés.
In addition to its unique and inventive ideas, the title features a superb story and dialogue, as well as a sense of humor far beyond what would be expected from a shounen anime.
There is something unique about each character. At first glance, Yu Yu Hakusho’s characters may seem one-dimensional, but you will soon see that they have much more to them than first meets the eye.
It isn’t just about the main character getting stronger and always being the hero in this show. Many of the characters show great character development, and the way in which they interact, as well as their similarities and differences, make for very balanced chemistry between them.
21. Dragon Ball Z
Together with his wife and son, Gokuu is enjoying a peaceful life five years after winning the World Martial Arts tournament. This changes, however, when a mysterious enemy named Raditz shows up and claims to be Gokuu’s long-lost brother. He reveals that Gokuu is a surviving member of the once-powerful but now nearly extinct Saiyan race, whose homeworld was destroyed.
When he arrived on Earth as a baby, Gokuu’s only purpose was to conquer and destroy the planet. However, his violent and savage nature changed after suffering amnesia. Instead, he became a kind and well-mannered boy who now fights to protect others.
As Raditz fails to forcefully recruit Gokuu as an ally, he warns Gokuu’s friends about an emerging threat—a threat that could plunge Earth into an intergalactic conflict and cause the heavens to shake. Dragon Ball Z is about a war over seven mystical dragon balls, and only the strongest will survive.
The Dragon Ball Z series is epic. Undoubtedly one of the most popular anime series that helped spread the art of anime throughout the world. Dragon Ball Z is much better than its predecessor. A mature feel permeates the series because its characters have matured.
Almost all shounen anime stories revolve around overcoming powerful villains. In most cases, doing the impossible is very typical, regardless of whether the protagonist is surrounded by friends or enemies. This trend began with DBZ.
Dragon Ball Z is another classic that most of you have already watched or at least know of. It’s an anime that has served as a gateway to the world of anime for a lot of watchers.
22. Banana Fish
Aslan Jade Callenreese, also known as Ash Lynx, was a runaway picked up off the streets of New York City and raised by Dino Golzine, the infamous godfather of the mafia. Ash, now 17 years old and the boss of his own gang, begins investigating the mysterious “Banana Fish” – the same two words that his older brother, Griffin, has muttered since his return from the Iraq War. He is hindered in his inquiry when Dino sends his men after Ash at an underground bar he uses as a hideout.
Ash’s friend Skip introduces him to Japanese photographers Shunichi Ibe and Eiji Okumura at the bar. Both of them are covering American street gangs for Japanese publications. One of Ash’s allies, Shorter Wong, calls to warn him about Dino during their conversation. Dino’s men soon storm the bar and kidnap Skip and Eiji.
Ash must now find a way to rescue them and pursue his investigation into Banana Fish, but will his history with the mafia hinder his success?
The story of a protagonist named Ash Lynx tells a visceral tale about life and love in Banana Fish’s deplorable world full of death and sexual violence. Its two halves, like the darkness and light that pervade its two protagonists, Ash and Eiji, contribute to a grounded character drama that portrays both ugly and beautiful aspects of human nature.
Banana Fish does an excellent job of describing its important characters in a short amount of time and consistently developing them throughout. Therefore, characters and their interactions are both dynamic and engaging.
The vast majority of anime releases these days adhere to successful formulas and character stereotypes, but Banana Fish stands out as one of the rare few that doesn’t fear taking chances.
23. Baccano!
In early 1930s Chicago, the transcontinental train, Flying Pussyfoot, is about to begin its legendary journey that will leave a trail of blood throughout the country. At the same time, in New York, Szilard and his unwilling assistant Ennis are searching for lost bottles of the immortality elixir.
Additionally, a war between the mafia groups is intensifying. As alchemists embark on the Advena Avis in 1711, they are about to learn what it takes for immortality. Baccano! follows a series of events that initially seem unconnected, both in time and place, but are part of a much bigger story of alchemy, survival, and immortality. It is the kindhearted would-be thieves, Isaac and Miria, who bring these events together, connecting a variety of characters, each with their own hidden agenda and ambitions, creating lifelong bonds and consequences for everyone involved.
Baccano! has a good balance of drama, action, and comedy. Every character is very well designed and as unique as their voices, from Isaac Dian and Miria Harvent to the psychopathic Ladd Russo. Among an excellent cast of characters, Isaac and Miria stand out as the most memorable. They effectively act as the story’s glue.
The story of Baccano is very straightforward. When it comes to storytelling, the style of how the story is told usually gets the most attention. Baccano! uses a non-sequential storytelling approach. Even though this isn’t new, it adds to the enjoyment by eliminating the universally derided “down time” episodes.
The story consists of several intertwined storylines. You may be confused by the characters and events at first. After the initial shock of being thrown into the middle of a story, you will be engrossed in an intriguing, fast-paced, and entertaining story that leaves you wanting more.
24. Hellsing Ultimate
In the night, there are creatures of evil and darkness that roam the night, devouring anyone unfortunate enough to be caught in their grasp. Hellsing, on the other hand, aims to destroy these forces of evil that threaten humanity’s existence. Its leader is Integra Fairbrook Wingates Hellsing, who commands a powerful military and spends her life fighting the undead.
However, Integra’s army pales in comparison to her ultimate weapon: Alucard, a vampire who works as an exterminator for Hellsing, against his own kind. Alucard must fight not only monsters but all those who oppose Hellsing, whether good or evil, with his new vampire servant, Seras Victoria.
In the battle for mankind’s survival, Hellsing Ultimate proves that appearances are not all they appear and that sometimes the greatest weapon can come in the form of one’s worst nightmare.
Hellsing Ultimate offers everything you would expect from a series centered on the greatest vampire of them all: Dracula. In this series, however, he goes by the name Alucard.
It’s the kind of anime that leaves you drooling for more. It covers intrigue, betrayal, conspiracy, gore, sarcastic humor, and plenty of ass-kicking action.
Almost panel for panel, the OVA stays true to the manga. Each installment is a visual spectacle covering the incidents of one volume of work. All of these factors combine into what a vampire series should stand for: Blood, gore, and even more blood.
25. Psycho-Pass
The enforcement of justice has changed. Japan imposes the Sibyl System in the 22nd century, an objective way to determine whether a citizen poses a threat to society by examining their mental state for signs of criminal intent, known as their Psycho-Pass.
The Inspectors enforce the law by subjugating anyone harboring even the slightest malice, often with lethal force; in conjunction with them, there are Enforcers, latent criminals who have become jaded Inspectors, granted relative freedom in return for carrying out the Inspectors’ dirty work.
Akane Tsunemori enters this world as a young woman with a sincere desire to uphold justice. She soon finds out, however, that the Sibyl System’s judgments aren’t as perfect as those of her fellow Inspectors as she works alongside veteran Enforcer Shinya Kougami. With everything she knows turned on its head, Akane contemplates what justice is and whether it can be maintained through the use of a system that is already corrupt.
There are several smaller arcs in this anime that revolve around the same bad guy. In the end, these arcs come together in an almost perfect way, and each is done flawlessly. This is a series with a masterful plot. In Psycho-Pass, things seem to happen for a reason, not just randomly.
It’s a series full of brain candy and not something you should watch if you are looking for an escape or if you want to turn off your brain. There are a few times when it gets boring, but overall, it has a good mix of genres. The story is definitely complicated and does, as every other really good series, leave you thinking. The characters have a few seen-before elements but are all in all likable, sensible and make the story move forward. As with any good series, the story is complex, and it does leave you wondering.
26. Neon Genesis Evangelion
The cataclysmic event known as the Second Impact occurred fifteen years ago, and a new threat has arisen: monstrous celestial beings called “Angels” have invaded Tokyo-3 one by one. It is impossible for mankind to defend itself against the Angels, even with the most advanced weapons and military tactics.
NERV, the organization led by the cold Gendou Ikari, is the only hope for human salvation. The NERV operates giant humanoid robots known as Evangelions to battle the Angels with advanced weapons and protective barriers known as Absolute Terror Fields.
Gendou Ikari’s 14-year-old son Shinji Ikari returns to the city where he was abandoned by his father. Shinji struggles with his deeply buried trauma caused by the loss of his mother and the emotional neglect he endured from his father. Shinji is terrified to open himself up to another, but his life is turned upside down when he meets Misato Katsuragi, a 29-year-old NERV officer who shows him a free-spirited maternal kindness that he has never experienced before.
As Shinji fends off a devastating Angel attack, Gendou reveals his true motive for inviting him back to Tokyo-3: Shinji is the only child capable of successfully piloting Evangelion Unit-01, a new robot that synchronizes with his biometrics. He defends Tokyo-3 against the angelic threat regardless of the psychological trauma brought about by piloting an Evangelion.
The series’ greatest strength is the characters. In the story of Evangelion, we see the struggles of the main characters to devastatingly wonderful effect. As Evangelion explores the minds and motivations of its characters, it reveals what drives them, making them one of anime’s most recognizable and interesting characters.
One of the strongest animes ever produced is Evangelion. There are powerful characters, an epic story, and beautiful art.
27. Fate/Zero
In the past, the omnipotent Holy Grail, with its promise of granting any wish, triggered three wars, each too cruel and fierce for a winner to emerge. Even so, the wealthy Einzbern family believes the Fourth Holy Grail War will be different, as they now possess a vessel of the Holy Grail. Solely for this reason, the much-hated “Magus Killer” Kiritsugu Emiya is hired by the Einzberns, with marriage to their only daughter Irisviel as a binding contract.
Now, Kiritsugu stands at the center of an intense survival game against six other participants, each armed with an ancient familiar and fueled by a unique set of ideals and desires. The priest Kirei Kotomine, who struggles with the emptiness inside himself, becomes the greatest opponent of the mercenary, accompanied by his own familiar, Saber.
Experience a battle royale where no one is guaranteed to live.
At first glance, Fate/Zero may seem like just another action anime, but this couldn’t be further from the truth. While the series assumes some familiarity with the franchise, it is balanced by a much tighter plot than either of its predecessors and by a greater emphasis on preparation, planning, and even dialogue between the parties involved.
The result is a narrative with far more structure and depth than one might expect from a supernatural action anime, and there are layers of subtext that are gradually revealed as the series unfolds.
Fate/Zero is a far more mature story than the original visual novel or its adaptation, and unlike many other shows, there are extremely few instances where characters engage in pointless conflicts or pursuits.
28. Initial D First Stage
Unlike his friends, Takumi Fujiwara is not particularly interested in cars, with little to no knowledge about the world of car enthusiasts and street racers. The son of a tofu shop owner, he is tasked to deliver tofu every morning without fail, driving along the mountain of Akina. Thus, conversations regarding cars or driving, in general, would only remind Takumi of the tiring daily routine forced upon him.
One night, the Akagi Red Suns, an infamous team of street racers, visit the town of Akina to challenge the local mountain pass. Led by their two aces, Ryousuke and Keisuke Takahashi, the Red Suns plan to conquer every racing course in Kanto, establishing themselves as the fastest crew in the region.
However, much to their disbelief, one of their aces is overtaken by an old Toyota AE86 during a drive back home from Akina. After the incident, the Takahashi brothers are cautious of a mysterious driver geared with remarkable technique and experience in the local roads—the AE86 of Mount Akina.
A strong point to this series is its characters. Takumi is not an archetype of a driving series’ main character; in fact, his apathetic attitude makes him stand out. He is not this overly energetic, loud protagonist; he is rather reserved but sharp. The rest of the characters blend in perfectly, and their interactions are real.
Despite the fact that they throw around a little bit of racing lingo, you are never more behind than the main character, and you are given a chance to become intrigued by street racing while Takumi does so.
With his attitude and experience, he hooks and reels you into what would otherwise be a complicated and technical world of street racing.
29. Rurouni Kenshin: Meiji Kenkaku Romantan
There once lived a legendary assassin named Hitokiri Battousai during the Bakumatsu era. Known as a brutal killer, he was unmatched throughout the country but mysteriously disappeared at the height of the Japanese Revolution. Despite ten years of peace since then, the mere mention of Battousai still strikes terror into the hearts of war veterans.
Unknown to them, Battousai has abandoned his bloodstained lifestyle in an effort to repent. His new identity is Kenshin Himura, a traveling swordsman with a cheerful attitude and a strong will to succeed. Kenshin promises never to kill again and dedicates himself to protecting the weak.
He runs into Kaoru Kamiya at her kendo dojo, which is being threatened by an impostor claiming to be Battousai. Kaoru permits him to stay in the dojo after receiving help from Kenshin, so the former assassin temporarily ceases his travels.
Kenshin’s story of trying to save those in need is told in Rurouni Kenshin: Meiji Kenkaku Romantan. Can the reformed killer uphold his new ideals when old and new enemies begin to surface?
The story is deep, intricate, emotional, and touching. Everything from romance, action, suspense, and even some thriller is included in Rurouni Kenshin. Overall this is definitely one of the classic shounen anime series that every shounen anime fan must watch. There is a great deal of action, comedy, and drama, with a superb story to back it up.
Character-wise, Rurouni Kenshin is a real masterpiece. The characters – even some of the bad ones have pasts that have deeply affected how they act in the present. These pasts, which serve as a motivation for their present actions, adds depth to the characters, and it’s easier to sympathize with them – even the bad ones.
30. Tokyo Ghoul
Sadly, Tokyo has become a brutal and merciless city, and vicious beasts called “ghouls” coexist with humans. People in this once great metropolis live in constant fear of these bloodthirsty savages. The greatest threat posed by these ghouls is their dangerous ability to impersonate humans and blend in with society.
Ken Kaneki, a shy, bookish student, is instantly attracted to Rize Kamishiro, a fellow reader, in Tokyo Ghoul. However, Rize is not who she seems to be, and Kaneki is pushed into the dark depths of the ghouls’ inhuman world. Having been rescued by the mysterious waitress Touka Kirishima, Kaneki now lives a secret life as a half-ghoul, half-human who must learn how to fit into both societies.
Have you ever thought you’d root for man-eaters in an anime? Tokyo Ghoul, if you say no, is here to disprove you. One of the best anime series, Tokyo Ghoul, is sure to keep you on your toes. Its darkness and gore will likely attract gore fans, but anyone can enjoy it.
While the concept of getting new powers and meeting people from different backgrounds is not new in anime, Tokyo Ghoul does it in a very effective way. It focuses on the point that there is no clear distinction between good and evil, and it all depends on perspectives. In a deeper sense, it reminds us that we should not jump to conclusions without considering the circumstances and difficulties faced by others.
In addition to action-packed scenes, the show is filled with touching scenes in which people cry, scream, and talk to each other in a meaningful moral dialogue.
31. Stranger: Mukou Hadan
Kotarou and his dog Tobimaru thieve innocent villagers to survive in Japan during the Sengoku period. When he is pursued by assassins sent by China’s Ming Dynasty for unknown reasons, Kotarou is forced to remain on the run.
When Kotarou is attacked, and Tobimaru poisoned, they run into Nanashi, a ronin who has taken refuge in a small temple. While the samurai saves the helpless pair from their pursuers, he feels no need to aid them further; however, when offered a gem in exchange for his services as a bodyguard, he reluctantly accepts Kotarou’s proposal for a position as a bodyguard until Tobimaru is healed and the two reach their destination.
As the three set off on their perilous journey, it soon becomes apparent that their path is full of danger, as the Ming Dynasty has sent a terrifying swordsman after them to capture Kotarou and fulfill a certain prophecy.
Despite the simple premise of “samurai protects child,” the plot moves forward enough to justify a feature-length film. Despite its simplicity, this historical martial arts epic moves at a brisk pace while remaining coherent and straightforward. This straightforward approach to the plot enhances the action-packed appeal of the film.
A simple description of the two main characters as lone wolves, one a petulant child, the other a carefree ronin, covers most of their complexities. Throughout this description, it is also clear that the two characters bond and bring out the best in one another. The child learns to appreciate and apologize, while the ronin finds meaning in self-sacrifice.
32. Koukaku Kidoutai
The city of Niihama has become a technologically advanced metropolis by the year 2029. As a result of advances in cybernetics, its citizens are able to replace their limbs with robotic components. As the world becomes more interconnected than ever, the city’s Public Security Section 9 is responsible for combating corruption, terrorism, and other dangers.
Taking on a case involving the “Puppet Master,” a mysterious hacker who strips victims of their memories, the strong-willed Major Motoko Kusanagi leads Section 9 on the case. The Puppet Master has an almost entirely robotic body, giving them a tremendous amount of power.
After Motoko and her subordinates follow the enigmatic criminal’s trail, other parties-including Section 6-begin to become involved, forcing her to face the extremely complex nature of the case. As Motoko wonders about various philosophical questions, such as her own life’s meaning, she realizes that the only person who can answer these questions is the Puppet Master himself.
Though it never really finds an answer to the question “What makes us human?” it comes close. It doesn’t really beat the audience over the head with its philosophical, existentialist, and technical talk. In a film about big questions, many of these issues are handled in subtle ways that keep the pace moving while still making the audience think.
Motoko is the star of this movie and is the only character who changes over the course of the film, even though all the characters have interesting aspects. Throughout the entire film, she struggles with losing her humanity due to being a cyborg, and everything culminates in a masterful finale that just leaves you in awe.
33. Tokyo Revengers
In Takemichi Hanagaki’s life, the second year of middle school was his happiest. There was respect in his life, a gang of friends he could count on, and even a girlfriend. Twelve years have passed since then. As of today, he’s a nobody: a washed-up nonentity who’s made fun of by children and always forced to apologize to his younger boss.
The news of the Tokyo Manji Gang’s brutal murder of his only girlfriend and her brother only adds insult to injury. Just before a train ends his pitiful life forever, Takemichi remembers the same day twelve years ago, when he was still dating Hinata Tachibana.
Takemichi meets Hinata’s younger brother after reliving the same day that started his downward spiral. Before flashing back to the past, he admits to his apparent death without thinking. Before inexplicably returning to the future, Takemichi urges him to protect his sister. Miraculously, he is still alive. And even stranger, the future changed.
It seems that Takemichi is able to alter the flow of time. Takemichi is given the opportunity to change the future by flying through time in order to prevent his ex-girlfriend’s tragic death at the hands of the Tokyo Manji Gang.
There is an intense atmosphere created by the characters and their individual stories, which makes 20 minutes feel like just a few seconds. Characters develop well in this show, and it never disappoints. There’s always a logical connection between everything. With each episode, it gets straight to the point, leaving you wanting to learn more.
Each character is well-written, lovable, and for the most part fairly realistic, without supernatural elements or powers, just good, ordinary people who we come to love.
34. Trigun
The man who has a bounty of $$60,000,000,000 is known as Vash the Stampede. This is because he’s a merciless villain who lays waste to all those who oppose him and flattens entire cities out of sheer enjoyment.
According to the rumors, he leaves a trail of death and destruction wherever he goes, and anyone who so much as looks at him will die. Vash is actually a big softy who claims to have never killed anyone and avoids violence at all costs.
With his doughnut obsession and buffoonish attitude, Vash traverses the wasteland of Gunsmoke, accompanied by two insurance agents, Meryl Stryfe and Milly Thompson, who try to minimize his impact on the populace.
It soon becomes life or death for them when a group of legendary assassins is summoned to bring suffering to the trio. As Vash’s agonizing past unravels, his morals and principles will be tested to their breaking point.
Throughout the series, the characters face trials and hardships, and each episode tells a different story. Progress and development are evident in this series as every adventure is linked to the next.
Being an episodic adventure series, there are a lot of characters but very few recurring characters. However, Vash, the main character, makes up for all of that. Even in the very first episode, you’ll know that there’s more to Vash than meets the eye.
Human and well-developed characters make up the story. Vash the Stampede is one of the most multi-dimensional characters created in anime; he doesn’t have just one side to him. His friend Wolfwood is also very multi-dimensional and developed.
35. Fairy Tail
Magic is part of everyday life in the mystical land of Fiore. There are countless magic guilds that serve as venues for like-minded mages to band together and pursue job requests. Fairy Tail stands out among the rest as a place of strength, spirit, and family.
The young mage Lucy Heartfilia wants to become a wizard by joining this famous guild in search of celestial gate keys. When she is searching, she runs into Natsu Dragneel and his partner Happy, who are searching for Natsu’s foster father, the dragon Igneel.
Lucy is tricked by a man and falls under an abduction attempt, only to be saved by Natsu. When she finds out he is a member of Fairy Tail; she is shocked. In this guild, Lucy meets Gray Fullbuster, an ice wizard, and Erza Scarlet, a swordswoman. They come together as a family to battle evil, aid those in need, and make new friends, all while taking part in the never-ending adventures of Fairy Tail.
Fairy Tail is so unique because it is good despite all the clichés it contains in its plot. There is nothing wrong with generic shounens, and Fairy Tail capitalizes on those aspects we love.
In this story, there are a lot of characters, so it would seem there isn’t enough time to tell their stories. All of them get plenty of screen time, despite not being the main characters. You will see that most of the time, Natsu, Grey, Lucy, and Happy will be the ones being followed, but you will also see that everyone else will be included.
36. Bungou Stray Dogs
For weeks, Atsushi Nakajima’s orphanage has been riddled by a mystical tiger that only he seems to know about. The 18-year-old, suspected of being behind the strange incidents, is kicked out of the orphanage abruptly and left hungry, homeless, and wandering through the city.
Atsushi saves Osamu Dazai from drowning when he is starving along a riverbank. Dazai, a whimsical suicide enthusiast and supernatural detective, has been investigating the same tiger that has been terrorizing the boy.
As Dazai and his partner Doppo Kunikida solve the mystery, Atsushi is left in a tight spot. As strange events unfold, Atsushi is coerced into joining a supernatural investigation firm, taking on unusual cases the police cannot handle, with the help of numerous enigmatic colleagues.
A special group of literacy authors gets together. What happens? The result is Bungou Stray Dogs. Only this time, they possess special abilities in a world full of mystery, crime, and all kinds of other dark phenomena that will take your breath away. Bungou Stray Dogs is proof that supernatural fiction can still work in an attractive manner.
It gives us a view of a select group of people with their own individual talents, characteristics, and lifestyles that make us wonder about their everyday lives. It looks pretty cool on paper, with a cast of badasses named after famous literary works. Additionally, their special powers also stem from their well-known literature.
In general, Bungou Stray Dogs does not require any previous knowledge of literature to watch. Characters, themes, and storyline provide enough entertainment so prepare yourself for an exciting ride. When you look back on it someday, you’ll realize how much fun it was.
37. Boku no Hero Academia
Newly discovered superpowers, known as quirks, have been steadily appearing over the years, with 80 percent of humanity possessing abilities ranging from manipulation of elements to shapeshifting. People like Izuku Midoriya, who are left powerless by this, are one of them.
Throughout his life, the aspiring middle schooler has wanted nothing more than to be a hero. He admires heroes and takes notes about them whenever he can due to Izuku’s unfair fate. But it seems his persistence paid off: Izuku meets his personal hero and number one hero, All Might. Izuku is the next inheritor of All Might’s quirk, an ability that can be passed down.
After months of intense training, Izuku enters UA High, a prestigious high school famous for its excellent hero training program, and this year’s freshmen look especially promising. Izuku will soon learn what it means to be a hero, thanks to his bizarre but talented classmates and the looming threat of a villainous organization.
The main focus of Boku no Hero Academia is Izuku, a young boy who aspires to become the greatest hero in a world filled with heroes. It is not a simple task, considering that every man and woman in the world has a unique trait that gives them an edge over Izuku, who was born without one.
It’s not a new story, but this show makes it unique by telling the story in a completely new way. It will capture your full attention and allow you to feel like you are part of the world it is meant to portray. With the protagonist’s die-hard attitude, you will grow very fond of him by the end of the series.
All the characters have different personalities, quirks, and traits that make them unique.
38. Akira
1988, Japan. Psychic powers are used by a young boy to cause an explosion that ignites the fuse leading to World War III, causing the city of Tokyo to be ripped apart. He is captured and taken into custody in order to prevent any additional destruction.
Now, in the year 2019, Neo-Tokyo stands in its stead-an area rife with gang violence and terrorism against the current government. Shoutarou Kaneda here leads “the capsules,” a band of misfits known for riding large, custom motorcycles and being in constant conflict with their rivals, “the clowns.”
Shoutarou’s best friend Tetsuo Shima gets into an accident with an esper who escapes confinement from a government institution and finds himself in the streets of Tokyo. In the face of this encounter, Tetsuo begins to develop his own mysterious abilities, while the government seeks to quarantine this most recent psychic in a desperate attempt to prevent him from unleashing the destructive power that could once again bring the city to its knees.
Akira is a classic anime film; it is in all respects a classic that should be seen by people interested in or thinking of getting into anime or who are already anime fans but haven’t seen it yet.
There’s no doubt that you will enjoy Akira whether you like action or complex stories because it offers a balanced mixture of both. Although you probably won’t fully grasp the story or relate to some of the characters, this is but a small downside to a truly great film.
39. Katekyo Hitman Reborn!
There is no way around it: Tsunayoshi Sawada is a complete failure. A clumsy, talentless boy, he is in love with the school idol, Kyouko Sasagawa, someone so completely out of his league. Known by his classmates as “Loser Tsuna,” this middle-schooler symbolizes the very essence of failure.
When Tsuna encounters Reborn, a mysterious hitman, and shockingly, a newborn baby, his life takes a dramatic turn. From the strongest Mafia family in Italy, Reborn is sent on a daunting mission to prepare the dull middle-schooler to succeed the ninth boss of the notorious Vongola family, who is about to retire.
Despite the hard road ahead for the dull boy, perhaps even Loser Tsuna can achieve greatness with the help of his new criminal associates and his peculiar home tutor.
The anime follows Tsuna’s growth and maturation as he fights his enemies and grows stronger each time. Throughout the story, he is confronted with well-written fights that will keep you hooked.
A wide range of characters follow an unlikely protagonist in this story. The characters are very well portrayed; you can’t help but love all of them. They change greatly over the course of the anime, and it’s worthwhile to watch them grow up.
No matter who they are, whether the protagonist, a supporting character or even the antagonist, every character has at least one good quality. The main cast has excellent chemistry, and you want them to succeed. You’ll be jealous of Tsuna, he has the perfect range of friends, all with flaws that fit their characters, and they all have a strong loyalty to him.
40. Durarara!!
Tokyo’s downtown district of Ikebukuro has several urban legends regarding anonymous gangs and dangerous inhabitants, but one stands out above the rest: a headless “Black Rider” who rides a jet-black motorcycle through the city streets.
A childhood friend’s invitation convinces Mikado Ryuugamine to move to Tokyo, and he craves the excitement of city life. As he witnessed the Black Rider on his first day in the city, it seems as if his wishes were already being granted. Ordinary citizens like him, along with the city’s most colorful inhabitants, are caught up in the commotion as supernatural events begin to occur.
The series contains a wide range of characters and story arcs. By far, the most interesting and amazing aspect of this anime is its characters. Mikado, the protagonist, may seem like your typical awkward male protagonist, but he actually has his own secrets.
It is clear that most of the first few episodes focus on Mikado, establishing him as a lead character as well as a means of building the exposition of the series. Several story arcs begin to take shape once the pieces are in place and a great number of characters introduced before are brought into play.
Besides being strong on a narrative level, it is also impressive visually and sonically. The series features art and animation that are thoroughly impressive, giving each character a unique appearance that makes an impression on the viewer.
The series possesses a lot of originality and is unique enough to be one of the best anime shows. There’s no doubt that this is the best-written series in a long time, filled with thoroughly intriguing characters and engaging storylines.
41. Ansatsu Kyoushitsu
Kunugigaoka Middle School students in class 3-E are faced with an impossible task when a mysterious creature chops down the moon to a permanent crescent. They must assassinate the creature responsible for the catastrophe before Earth is destroyed.
However, Koro-sensei, as the monster is called, is able to fly at speeds up to Mach 20, which he shows off freely, leaving any attempts to subdue him behind. Further, the misfits of 3-E soon discover that the strange, tentacled beast is more than just indomitable – he is the best teacher they have ever had!
Throughout Ansatsu Kyoushitsu, we follow the junior high pupils as they stay strong against oppressive school rules, their own life problems, and one day, Koro-sensei.
The anime’s story is unique and original among anime and manga: it utilizes its main theme of assassination and education to its greatest advantage, allowing it to develop and characterize its remarkably large cast while expressing many other notable themes like friendship, class and discrimination, failure and defeat, and human perseverance.
Ansatsu Kyoushitsu contains many didactic and morally powerful lessons that are not only motivational but also inspirational.
Koro-sensei not only helps the students individually with their personal and academic troubles, but he shows them the beauty and bonds they share through assassination and education.
Certainly, the underlying theme of assassination plays a vital role in allowing the characters to learn more about each other and about Koro-sensei, thereby allowing them to grow as individuals and as a collective.
No matter how harsh or dejected reality may be, one must persevere and work their way through to achieve improvement.
42. Angel Beats!
When Ohtonashi awakens, he discovers he is dead. Yuri, a girl with a rifle, explains that they are in the afterlife, and Otonashi realizes the only thing he remembers about himself is his name. Yuri explains to him that she leads the Shinda Sekai Sensen and wage war against a girl named Tenshi. Yuri claims that Tenshi is evil, and Otonashi cannot believe this, so he tries to speak with her, but their meeting does not go as planned.
In order to battle Tenshi, Okonashi joins the SSS. However, he finds himself strangely drawn to her. He slowly unravels the mysteries of the afterlife as he tries to regain his memories and understand Tenshi.
Angel Beats has a duality to it. The comedy part is well-timed and mostly funny. It is also quite good at slapstick comedy and usually accompanied by unfitting music, which further heightens the comedy.
Melodrama would be the other part. Characters’ backstories are revealed piece by piece. Many of the stories are depressing and torturous, which is not surprising. The stories are not stereotypical; their common theme seems to be regret – especially those of teenagers dealing with their families, society, and everyday life.
It’s interesting to see how each character interacts with the other and how their personalities differ. No two characters are alike, not even in personality. The series is unique in that there are so many characters that it can be difficult for them to all have their own personalities.
Whenever they are happy, intense, or sad, they share it with each other. It still felt like you could relate to the characters despite the horrific backstories that many of these characters have.
43. Darker than Black: Kuro no Keiyakusha
In the past 10 years, Heaven’s Gate has appeared in South America and Hell’s Gate in Japan, covering the once familiar night sky with an oppressive skyscape. It is unknown what their purposes are, but these Gates are spaces where the laws of physics are ignored. Contractors emerged with the arrival of the Gates, who gained supernatural abilities in exchange for their humanity.
The Section 4 Chief Misaki Kirihara of Hell’s Gate is at odds with the notorious Contractor Hei in the Japanese city surrounding Hell’s Gate. Hei is known as the “Black Reaper” in the underground world. Hei, like his associates, completes missions for the mysterious and ruthless Syndicate while slowly peeling back the layers covering a nefarious plot that threatens the very existence of Contractors.
This is a sci-fi thriller taking the form of a subtle exposé on a war in which political positions and justice have no sway—a war waged exclusively in the shadows.
The show’s premise is somewhat vague at the beginning since there is no information about the contractors’ powers or how they are connected to the gates. More information is revealed throughout the series, creating good plot exposition and allowing the story to move at a decent pace and keep each episode interesting. The series’ greatest strength, however, is its characters.
The characters of Darker than Black are individually unique, and unlike some shows with several similar-looking characters, Darker than Black does an excellent job of giving each character an unique style and a winning personality. Characters have unique traits, and their dialogues are well-written. All in all, the characters have very nice chemistry, and it is interesting to see Hei’s interactions with the people who are pursuing him.
44. Black Clover
During the same day, both Asta and Yuno were abandoned in the same church. Together as children, they learned about the “Wizard King”—a title given to the strongest mage in the kingdom—and promised to compete for the position.
As they grew up, however, their differences became more apparent. Unlike Yuno, who is able to wield magic with incredible power and control, Asta is unable to do so and desperately tries to unlock his power through physical training.
Upon reaching the age of 15, Yuno receives a spectacular Grimoire with a four-leaf clover, while Asta does not. Yuno, however, is attacked shortly afterward by a person named Lebuty, whose sole objective is to acquire Yuno’s Grimoire. Despite his attempts, Asta is outmatched by Lebuty.
Despite being without hope and on the verge of defeat, he finds the strength to continue when he hears Yuno’s voice. When Asta unleashes his inner emotions in a rage, he receives a five-leaf clover Grimoire, a “Black Clover” that gives him enough power to defeat Lebuty. They set out into the world a few days later, both in pursuit of the same goal–to become a Wizard King!
Asta’s journey is a well-written and extremely satisfying story. It feels like we have been with Asta the whole time. Underdog stories are always uplifting. There has never been a greater underdog than Black Clover.
The no power vs. all power dynamic is evident, but their interactions with one another are smooth and unique to Black Clover. There is a refreshing blend of personalities and traits among the Magic Knights and their squads.
45. Noragami
During a time of need, you might be able to find a strange telephone number written in red. The Yato God will answer your call if you call this number.
A minor deity, Yato is a self-proclaimed “Delivery God” who hopes to have millions of followers. However, without a single shrine dedicated to his name, he is far from achieving his goals. His days are spent doing odd jobs for five yen each until his weapon partner gets tired of his useless master and deserts him.
Things appeared to be going badly for the god until a middle school girl, Hiyori Iki, allegedly saved him from a car accident. Despite her survival, her soul has become loose, and she is, therefore, able to leave her body due to the event.
Yato demands that Hiyori return to normal, but when she realizes that he will need a new partner to do so, she reluctantly agrees to help him. Yato’s luck might finally turn around with Hiyori’s help.
There is a seamless flow of plotlines in Noragami, both in terms of pacing and execution. The story moves forward very quickly, aside from some comic relief and character introductions here and there. In fact, it has a few realistic undertones.
It makes you realize how lonely living can be, how painful it is to be forgotten and how you want to be remembered.
The characters in this series are well fleshed out, well developed, and not one-dimensional at all. Noragami offers something for everyone. You will find action, drama, comedy, and fantasy in this series. Because the show is more character-driven, its small cast of characters portrays human behaviors in a relatable manner.
46. Kuroshitsuji
“The Queen’s Guard Dog,” Young Ciel Phantomhive acts as Her Majesty’s eyes and ears to the many unsettling events that occur in Victorian England. With the help of Sebastian Michaelis, his loyal butler with seemingly inhuman abilities, Ciel uses whatever means necessary to achieve his goal. Does this black-clad butler have more to offer than meets the eye?
One of the darkest moments of Ciel’s life was when he made a contract with Sebastian, a demon, trading his soul for vengeance upon those who wronged him.
Sebastian is not only the best butler you could ask for but is also the perfect servant to carry out his master’s orders – all the while anticipating the delicious meal he will prepare with Ciel’s soul as they unravel the mystery of Ciel’s misfortunes, a bond unlike any other.
Kuroshitsuji reveals several mysteries, both inside and outside the Phantomhive household, leaving the audience wondering who is involved, what’s going on, and why.
Most of these characters have so many hidden depths that they never seem two-dimensional. All characters have emotional backstories and plot twists to some extent.
With his eloquent nature and satirical humor, Sebastian is the pure personification of a demon butler. It is often portrayed that demons are hideous creatures that are ravenous both inside and out. Still, Sebastian gives a whole new meaning to the word demon.
Additionally, Ciel Phantomhive isn’t your typical 12-year-old. The murder of his parents and the destruction of his childhood led to a dramatic turn of events no one had ever imagined for the boy. Being the owner of a toy company and the Queen’s underdog, he is more mature than his age.
47. Kill la Kill
Ryuuko Matoi has been searching for her father’s killer since her father was killed. She arrives at Honnouji Academy, a high school like no other, after following her only lead, the missing half of his invention, the Scissor Blade.
The academy is run by the cold-hearted and imposing student council president Satsuki Kiryuuin and her powerful underlings, the Elite Four. A brutally competitive school hierarchy rewards those at the top with special clothes known as “Goku Uniforms,” which grant them unique superhuman abilities.
Having been beaten by one of the students in uniform, Ryuuko retreats to her razed home, where she stumbles upon Senketsu, a rare and sentient “Kamui,” or God Clothes.
Senketsu awakens after coming in contact with Ryuuko’s blood, providing her with immense power. Now, with Senketsu and the Scissor Blade at her disposal, Ryuuko makes a stand against the Elite Four, hoping to reach Satsuki and discover who is responsible for her father’s death.
Anime tropes and clichés are amplified and inverted in Kill la Kill in order to deliver something exciting and fresh. Ryuuko’s revenge tale may be predictable, but it’s how the plot points are executed that sets it apart.
From the school setting, characters, and concepts to the absolutely epic action that takes place, everything is exaggerated. Throughout every episode, the show attempts to keep the ante high and never dwells on any single event for too long. This show doesn’t have much filler, and it plays with the viewer’s expectations by completely altering the outcome.
Similar to the explosive theatrics that are displayed all over the screen, the characters are outstanding in their ability to inject themselves into the plot and show.
48. Magi: The Labyrinth of Magic
There are several strange labyrinths dotted around the globe containing incredible treasures. Known as “Dungeons,” these places are believed to have been built by magicians known as Magi, who also aid people in building their empires by guiding them through dungeons. Djinns, beings who rule over labyrinths, grant successful conquerors access to their immense power and choose them to be future kings.
Aladdin, a kind and young magician, has lived a life of isolation and is eager to explore the world after leaving his home. Aladdin begins his journey alone, only accompanied by his mentor Ugo, a djinn he summons with his flute.
Aladdin soon makes friends with Alibaba Saluja after destroying the supply cart of a local merchant. Alibaba suggests they attempt to conquer the nearest dungeon to pay for the damages, starting a journey of epic proportions that will ultimately determine the fate of the world.
You can expect a gripping narrative in a setting based on Arabian Nights. Magi is structured in such a way that the focus on the two protagonists is well done, and it has a unique feel to it. By doing so, the story can become very dark and gripping without losing the narrative. The characters in a show must be well-rounded for the plot to work. No matter how great a set piece, it won’t work without strong protagonists. And Magi delivers.
What differentiates this from other shounen is the political aspect. As a king, you must reign. But how will you do it? Through this question, the different nations and factions can interact in a believable environment, without it ever feeling like the author is asking you to pretend they would do that.
49. Akatsuki no Yona
Princess Yona lives in luxury and ease in the Kingdom of Kouka; however, the sudden murder of the king and the betrayal of her beloved cousin Su-won places the princess in mortal danger.
The naive princess soon learns that Kouka is not what she imagined it would be after being forced to escape only with Son Hak, who is both her childhood friend and bodyguard. Given the current state of the kingdom, reclaiming the throne is nothing more than a wishful fantasy.
As Princess Yona faces the harsh realities of her kingdom, Akatsuki no Yona follows her on a coming-of-age adventure. Yona has only a mysterious legend to guide her as she tries to restore Kouka to its former glory while being pursued relentlessly by forces loyal to the new King of Kouka.
The show seems like your average run-of-the-mill shoujo reverse harem in the beginning, but as the story goes on, it becomes more than that – it’s really a well-written story that focuses on vengeance and betrayal, it blows other shoujos away.
The characters are well-developed and done well; Yona is pretty much one of the best female characters of all time; she starts off weak and fragile like a little kitten and develops on to be something big, a brave, independent creature awaiting its prey, it’s done in a way that her development is spot on.
Watching the show is a blast; it leaves no plotholes and has dialogue that seems useful. At first, the plot sounds generic, but give the show a chance, and you’ll experience some of the most well-done developments in anime in years.
50. Black Lagoon
Thailand’s Roanapur is a depraved, crime-ridden city where not even the authorities or churches are free from corruption. Besides being a haven for degenerates and convicts, the city is notorious for being the center of illegal activities and operations fueled by local crime syndicates.
During a delivery trip to Southeast Asia, Rokurou Okajima, a Japanese businessman who has been living a monotonous life, gets his chance for a change of pace. As Rokurou is captured by Black Lagoon, a mercenary group active in Roanapur, his business trip quickly goes south.
He would have been used as a bargaining chip in negotiations that ultimately failed. After being abandoned and betrayed by his former employer, Rokurou decides to join Black Lagoon. In order to survive, he must adapt quickly to his new environment and prepare himself for the bloodshed and tribulation to come.
Black Lagoon is a high-octane thriller that examines human morality and virtue in depth. As Rokurou slowly transforms from a businessman into a ruthless mercenary, he struggles to hold on to his values and beliefs.
The story of Black Lagoon is mostly episodic with a few arcs that normally last about three to four episodes; these arcs tell the story of the characters. However, the arcs are excellent and definitely worth watching if you enjoy action and gunfights, and it seldom offers time for boredom. The story places the main characters in a variety of situations in which they are placed by their jobs, so they can earn a living.
This anime is all about its characters. They are all so individual in their own way that you feel they possess emotions.
51. Drifters
During the Battle of Sekigahara in 1600, Toyohisa Shimazu is the rearguard for his retreating troops, and he is critically wounded when he finds himself in a modern, gleaming hallway. In the face of a stoic man named Murasaki and hundreds of doors on either side, Toyohisa is drawn through the nearest one and into an entirely different world.
A strange land is home to all manner of fantastical creatures, as well as warriors from different eras of Toyohisa’s world who were once thought to be dead. As Toyohisa becomes friends with Nobunaga Oda and the ancient archer Yoichi Suketaka Nasu, he learns of the political unrest sweeping the continent. Furthermore, they are summoned as “Drifters” to fight against the “Ends,” people who have created the Orte Empire and are trying to annihilate the Drifters.
With the growing power of the Ends, so does the Empire’s persecution of elves and other demihumans. Toyohisa and his band of unconventional heroes must fight in a brand new world war to help the Empire’s subjects while claiming the land for themselves and challenging the Ends.
In this experience, the characters are historical figures from different eras dating all the way back to the 1500s. If you’re not familiar with these characters, once you start watching, you’re inclined to look them up and find out more about them because they’re so fascinating.
It is truly a worthwhile anime that is for everyone who enjoys incredible visuals, historical figures, great fighting, strategies of war, and most of all, a satisfying story. Watch this, because you will be sorry if you don’t.
52. D.Gray-man
It is so painful to lose a loved one that often one wishes that they could be resurrected-a weakness that the enigmatic Millennium Earl exploits. By using the souls of the dead that are called back, he makes the mechanical weapons he calls Akuma. When a soul is placed in an Akuma, it is trapped forever, and the only way to free it is by using the Anti-Akuma weapon, “Innocence.”
After becoming a disciple of General Cross for three years, Allen Walker is sent to the Black Order-an organization comprised of those willing to fight Akuma and the Millennium Earl-to become a certified Exorcist. An arm acts as Allen’s Innocence, while a cursed eye sees the suffering souls inside the Akumas. Allen and his fellow Exorcists need to foil the Millennium Earl’s ultimate plot: one that can blow up the world.
On the surface, D. Gray-Man sounds like just another shounen anime with an organization of good guys with special weapons fighting evil monsters. Yeah, that’s the base of it, but it turns into something more, something deeper than many other shounen anime series.
While the setting is standard shounen all the way, you’ll find yourself surprised when watching this show. It starts off a bit slow, with many fights, small arcs, and nothing special to it. However, it quickly picks up and starts to show its qualities. The story soon blends in action, emotions, and, last but not least, realistic power-ups.
The characters are, without a doubt, the strongest point of this anime. The characters here aren’t all about brawling against the evil guys. They have emotions. Emotions which they have to face. And that’s what makes this anime a bit more character-driven and not so much plot-driven.
53. FLCL
A sixth-grader named Naota Nandaba lives in a city where nothing seems to ever happen. In the aftermath of his brother Tasuku leaving to play baseball in America, Naota takes over everything his brother left behind-from his top bunk bed to his ex-girlfriend Mamimi Samejima, who hasn’t stopped clinging to him ever since Tasuku left.
Naota has no idea, however, that his mundane existence is about to change forever when he meets Haruko Haruhara, a Vespa-riding, bass guitar-wielding, pink-haired psychopath who leaves him with tire tracks on his back and a giant horn atop his head.
Even though all he wants is some peace and quiet, when Haruko moves into his parents’ house, Naota finds himself sucked into the greatest battle for supremacy in the history of Earth and possibly the universe.
It hits the ground running and does not slow down. What better way to demonstrate a rushed maturation process than an action-packed six-episode series?
FLCL is as close as an anime series can get to literature. Fast-paced as it may be, the story beautifully presents a theme of growing into maturity and accompanies it with stunning visuals. It strikes the perfect balance between seriousness and humor. It makes you laugh; it makes you think; it pumps you up; its aesthetics impress you; it tells an eloquent story with a great mixture of science fiction and real-life; it does everything a good story should do.
Although FLCL completely succeeds in using animation as a visual medium for storytelling, it’s not all style over substance. FLCL sports an incredibly real and likable cast of characters.
54. Phantom: Requiem for the Phantom
American streets are rife with assassinations committed by the mafia. With the help of their near-invincible human weapon, Phantom, Inferno, a mysterious company, is behind most of these dealings.
The latest murder of Phantom is accidentally witnessed by a Japanese tourist. The tourist, desperate to escape, hides in a secluded building. Phantom, led by a young woman named Ein and the leader of Inferno, “Scythe Master,” captures and brainwashes the tourist.
With the name “Zwei,” this once peaceful tourist has become a puppet of Inferno with no memory. Zwei discovers a world of lies, deceit, and violence and must fight to survive, hoping one day to regain his memories and escape from this world where he is constantly on the verge of death.
You will be thrust into a world filled with violence, betrayal, deceit, and madness. You will be on the edge of your seats as every episode is an action-packed episode. Everyone is capable of killing or will kill when they believe that their survival is threatened. It is this choice that will change the protagonist’s life forever. It’s not like he wanted to go down that path, more like they forced him.
Despite the fact that both protagonists know they have feelings for each other, their status makes it difficult for them to act on those feelings. Also, time skips make this series more interesting as it will surprise the viewers since everything and everyone has changed after it.
One thing for sure is that this is one masterfully written and awesomely portrayed bit of storytelling. After seeing an episode, you’ll just keep longing for more and more because every episode leaves you hanging; it is almost impossible to watch just one episode at a time.
55. Owari no Seraph
Upon the appearance of a mysterious virus that kills everyone over the age of 13, mankind is enslaved by previously hidden vampires who emerge in order to subjugate society by promising to protect the survivors in exchange for blood donations.
Yuuichirou and Mikaela Hyakuya, two young boys, taken captive from an orphanage, are among those who survived. Angry at being treated like livestock under the cruel reign of the vampires, Mikaela hatches a rebellious escape plan that ultimately fails. Yuuichirou is the only survivor who is found by the Moon Demon Company, a military unit dedicated to exterminating the vampires in Japan.
Many years later, Yuuichirou has joined the Japanese Imperial Demon Army and is determined to avenge his family, but at what cost?
Owari no Seraph is a supernatural shounen anime focusing on a young man’s quest for revenge, all the while battling for friendship and loyalty against seemingly impossible odds.
Watching this anime won’t put you in the middle of the action. In fact, it establishes a background tale, narrating past events. Humans are treated like trash by vampires, and some are only alive because of their blood. It is a classic gimmick used by vampires as a food source.
A war-like atmosphere is created between humans and vampires in the show. While Yuuichirou is the main character, the show introduces other characters he meets as he trains to become stronger. There is a wide variety of characters, and the anime takes time to develop each and every character instead of focusing on just the protagonists.
56. Nanatsu no Taizai
The Holy Knights of Britannia live in a world similar to the European Middle Ages, using immensely powerful magic to protect the region of Britannia and its kingdoms. However, a small group of Knights turned their blades against their comrades and betrayed their homeland in an attempt to overthrow the ruler of Liones.
The Holy Knights defeated them, but rumors continued to circulate that these legendary knights, called the “Seven Deadly Sins,” were still alive. After ten years, the Holy Knights staged a coup d’état, becoming the new, tyrannical rulers of the Kingdom of Liones.
In Nanatsu no Taizai, Elizabeth, the third princess of the Kingdom of Liones, seeks out the Seven Deadly Sins. Assisted by them, she endeavors not only to reclaim her kingdom from the Holy Knights but also to seek justice in an unjust world.
It follows a typical format of battle after battle while gradually introducing each of the main characters and advancing the plot. Beautifully, this story moves beyond the commonplace good-guy-versus-bad-guy cliche. It asserts that there is no ‘good’ or ‘bad.’ As the series unfolds, it becomes increasingly evident that each character is flawed and selfish in their own way.
Taizai has a plethora of characters, and many of them see some interesting characterization and some development. Both the personalities of the characters and their interactions make this show so entertaining to watch.
This is a story about journeying, with constantly unique scenarios, purposeful character exploration, a complete narrative, and themes of sin and atonement. There is a good amount of hilarity, as well as clashes between characters.
57. Akame ga Kill!
In the revolt against Prime Minister Honest, whose avarice and greed for power have caused him to take advantage of the child emperor’s inexperience, Night Raid is the covert assassination arm of the Revolutionary Army. In the absence of a strong and benevolent leader, the rest of the nation is left to drown in poverty, strife, and ruin.
All members of the Night Raid are experienced killers, but they realize that taking lives is not commendable and that they will likely face retribution when they mercilessly eliminate anyone who stands in the way of the revolution.
This merry band of assassins’ newest member is Tatsumi, a naïve boy from a remote village who had embarked on a journey to help his impoverished hometown and was won over by not only Night Raid’s ideals but also their resolve. Akame ga Kill! follows Tatsumi as he fights the Empire and comes face-to-face with powerful weapons, enemy assassins, challenges to his own morals and values, and ultimately, what it truly means to be an assassin with a cause.
Akame Ga Kill! takes you by surprise right from the beginning. While it seems to be a normal innocent anime, it turns out to be bloody that pulls at your heartstrings.
The anime has a very realistic feel to it. In real life, this is not surprising, especially when the main characters are assassins, but for some reason, most anime simply don’t make people die by creating impossible situations. That’s not the case with Akame ga Kill.
It has unique and likable characters. Every character has a unique quality. No one should be surprised that characters will die, and they’ll suffer a lot before death, so this connection of liking, or even loving for some, is crucial to how the anime manipulates your emotions.
58. Mirai Nikki
Yukiteru Amano, a lonely high school student, writes a diary on his cellphone while conversing with his two imaginary friends, Deus Ex Machina, who is the god of time and space, and Murmur, the god’s servant. Announcing himself to be an actual entity, Deus grants Yukiteru a “Random Diary,” which contains highly descriptive entries based on the future and forces him into a bloody battle royale with 11 other holders of similar powerful diaries.
In order to survive, Yukiteru must find and kill the other 11 in order to become the new god of time and space. He reluctantly joins forces with his stalker Yuno Gasai, who owns a diary of her own, and she takes it upon herself to keep him safe. But there’s more to the girl than meets the eye, as she might have other plans for her unrequited love.
As with any survival game genre, there are risks, such as death. Ultimately, there is only one winner, and that’s every man for himself. Our protagonist is lucky that his stalker is madly in love with him, which means they are able to form an alliance.
At its core, Mirai Nikki is a romance story, but it is so much more than that. There is an exploration of how one’s actions and willpower can change the future and how good people can go insane or do terrible things.
The pacing is fairly fast but not intrusive, and you’re on the edge of your seat, even when there isn’t much action going on because you know an enemy could pop up at any moment. Mirai Nikki stands out for its thrilling plot and its vast array of characters with their own unique stories and layers of depth.
59. K
The “Kings” are individuals who have been granted extraordinary powers and the ability to recruit others. Kings are responsible for protecting the lives and honor of their clansmen. The ordinary student Yashiro Isana is accused of homicide after a video depicting the murder of a Red Clansman goes viral.
The manhunt for his head is now underway, bringing him into contact with the infamous “Black Dog” Kurou Yatogami-a skilled swordsman and martial artist determined to follow the wishes of his late master, the Seventh King.
Mikoto Suou, the current Red King, faces his own imminent demise as the search for Yashiro narrows. A greater conspiracy is unfolding behind the scenes as Yashiro struggles to prove his innocence; clouds begin to appear in his memory, and close friends begin to doubt his existence. In what began as a simple murder, a full-blown war between Kings is about to break out.
The characters of K are pretty much the essence of the show since K only has 13 episodes, and its cast is huge. Their interactions, personalities, lives, motives, ability to make you both laugh and cry all make them pretty much the most memorable characters seen in a long time. They may look gorgeous, perfect, flawless, and shallow, but actually, they’re just flawed, tragic, and ultimately human reflections of us all.
This anime is not what it looks like at first glance. It’s not what you think it looks like under its shiny package, either. It’s a tragic tale of a group of people who share a bond thicker than blood, a bond that will eventually lead them into becoming more human than humanity itself.
60. Guilty Crown
2039, Japan. Originally a proud nation, it has fallen under the rule of GHQ, an independent military force dedicated to restoring order following the outbreak of the “Apocalypse Virus,” regarded as the “Lost Christmas.” A rebel group led by Gai Tsutsugami, Funeral Parlor, offers the only resistance to GHQ’s despotism.
As Inori Yuzuriha, a key member of Funeral Parlor, encounters the weak and insular Shuu Ouma during a crucial operation, he gains the “Power of Kings,” which permits him to draw out manifestations; of an individual’s personality or “voids.” As an unwilling participant in the struggle against GHQ, Shuu must learn to control his newfound power if he is to help take back Japan for good.
A young high school student is dragged into a war, possessing a power that will enable him to uncover the secrets of the GHQ, Funeral Parlor, and Lost Christmas in the action-packed story of “Guilty Crown.” However, the truth comes at a price far greater than he could have ever imagined.
While nothing original and obviously very familiar, it’s nonetheless tried and tested and has produced classics outside anime. The story is told properly; they don’t attempt to cram everything in one episode and tells us the story piece by piece; each episode introduces new characters and develops the ones in the previous episodes.
Sure they use cliches here and there, but that’s exactly what makes it awesome. Since it’s familiar, you wouldn’t have trouble digesting the story.