27 Best Anime Series of All Time

April 25, 2025 By Janne Smith No Comments 16 minutes

The growing mainstream appeal of anime is easy to understand, as the best anime series deliver captivating stories, breathtaking animation, and unforgettable characters. While newer hits have also earned high praise and loyal followings, the iconic classics helped shape the industry for generations.

The best animes of all time span diverse genres and themes, ensuring that there’s something for everyone among the medium’s finest works. With that said, this guide covers the 27 best anime series of all time, listed in descending order. Following that, we’ll wrap up with the frequently asked questions and a final note.

Note: Popular streaming services, such as Netflix, Hulu, Prime Video and others, often restrict their catalogs to specific regions based on the license agreements. However, you can bypass these geo-restrictions by connecting to a reliable VPN, like FastestVPN, and access your favorite anime titles.

Quick Rundown of the Best Anime Series

Short on time? We’ve got you covered! Here’s the list of the best anime of all time in 2025:

1. Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood
2. Attack on Titan
3. Hunter x Hunter (2011)
4. One Piece
5. Monster
6. Dragon Ball Z
7. Steins;Gate
8. Demon Slayer
9. JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure
10. One Punch Man
11. Neon Genesis Evangelion
12. Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion
13. My Hero Academia
14. Vinland Saga
15. Made in Abyss
16. Mob Psycho 100
17. Jujutsu Kaisen
18. Yu Yu Hakusho
19. Berserk (1997)
20. Tengen Toppa Gurren Lagann
21. Bleach: Thousand-Year Blood War
22. Chainsaw Man
23. Devilman Crybaby
24. Naruto
25. Revolutionary Girl Utena
26. Pokémon
27. Sailor Moon

Jump to the next sections to learn more about the best animes of all time.

1. Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood

Rating: 9.1

Streaming on: Crunchyroll, Netflix, Hulu

The Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood is among the best anime series that intricately outlines the bond of the Elric brothers, known for their half-metal bodies formed by practicing forbidden alchemy in a desperate attempt to bring their mother back at the cost of their own bodies.

Despite divine intervention warning them against it, they refuse to give up. Their journey to restore what was lost becomes the foundation of a bigger adventure. From fighting monsters to divine forces, they face everything for a better cause.

2. Attack on Titan

Rating: 9.1

Streaming on: Crunchyroll, Netflix

Eren Yeager, Mikasa Ackerman, and Armin Arlert join humanity’s most elite soldiers to battle towering Titans and uncover the mysteries beyond their city walls.

What began as a traditional shonen quickly evolved into a masterpiece, delving into complex themes such as discrimination, war, and class struggle. Attack on Titan stands as the best anime of all time. It blends intense action, deeply emotional character moments, and shocking twists, which will have you glued to the screen for hours.

3. Hunter x Hunter

Rating: 9.0

Streaming on: Crunchyroll, Peacock, and Netflix

This best anime series follows Gon Freecss, a young boy who leaves home to take the Hunter Exam in hopes of becoming a Hunter and finally reuniting with his long-lost father, Ging.

During his journey, Gon befriends Killua, Kurapika, and Leorio and forms an unbreakable bond with them as they embark on countless adventures. From intense battles in Heaven’s Arena to facing the deadly Phantom Troupe in Yorknew City, the group experiences it all. Hunter x Hunter significantly impacted the anime community, solidifying its place as one of the greatest series of all time.

4. One Piece

Rating: 9.0

Streaming on: Crunchyroll, Netflix

One Piece is one of the longest-running best anime series, yet its length has never deterred fans from becoming deeply invested in the adventures of Luffy and the Straw Hat Pirates. What makes it even more remarkable is that, rather than losing momentum over time, the series only grows more captivating—a rare feat for any long-running anime.

Unlike the stereotypical ruthless pirate, Monkey D. Luffy embodies the spirit of a classic shonen protagonist. At just 17, he’s energetic and optimistic, and he firmly believes that no dream is out of reach. His ultimate goal? To become the Pirate King.

Leading the Straw Hat crew, a diverse group of pirates from all walks of life, Luffy embarks on an epic journey to uncover the legendary treasure, the One Piece.

5. Monster

Rating: 8.9

Streaming on: Netflix

Monster is one of the best anime series, best known for its storyline that stands out from most anime series. In a medium often filled with giant robots, superpowered fighters, and virtual fantasy worlds, Monster takes a refreshingly realistic approach.

This dark, mature, and gripping best anime series thriller follows a good man whose life falls apart after making a choice he believed was right. As he struggles to undo his mistake, he embarks on a harrowing journey that tests his morality and leads him down a chilling path of suspense and psychological intrigue.

6. Dragon Ball Z

Rating: 8.8

Streaming on: Crunchyroll, Hulu, Amazon Prime

New to anime? Dragon Ball Z is a must on the list of the best anime series! Few anime characters are as legendary as Goku, the beloved protagonist of Dragon Ball Z. As a Saiyan warrior and Earth’s strongest fighter; he leads the Z-Fighters in their mission to gather the Dragon Balls and protect the planet from powerful enemies. Serving as a continuation of Dragon Ball, the series expands its universe in bold and exciting ways.

After winning the Martial Arts Tournament, Goku settles down, gets married, and starts a family. However, his true origins come to light when his long-lost brother, Raditz, arrives on Earth. Goku was originally sent to destroy the planet, but a childhood accident—falling from a great height and hitting his head—left him with amnesia, ultimately altering his destiny forever.

7. Steins;Gate

Rating: 8.8

Streaming on: Crunchyroll

Steins;Gate is the best anime series for those who love mystery and intrigue. The story follows Rintaro Okabe, an eccentric scientist passionate about experimentation and discovery. Alongside his friends Shiina and Itaru, he establishes the Future Gadget Laboratory, hoping to create groundbreaking inventions. However, their most notable creation seems to be nothing more than a microwave that turns bananas into a slimy mess.

Things take a dramatic turn when Rintaro realizes that this seemingly useless microwave has a hidden ability—it can send messages to the past. As he uncovers its true potential as a time-travel device, he also comes to understand the devastating consequences of tampering with the timeline. With its gripping plot and thought-provoking themes, Steins;Gate remains one of the most highly regarded anime of all time.

8. Demon Slayer

Rating: 8.8

Streaming on: Crunchyroll, Netflix

Demon Slayer masterfully balances its intense action and horror elements with a deeply emotional core. Tanjiro Kamado, the protagonist, isn’t just fighting demons in this best anime series to protect his sister—he recognizes that they were once human, each with their own past and emotions. Even in their final moments, he offers them compassion, setting Demon Slayer apart from traditional “monster hunter” anime with its unique depth and heartfelt storytelling.

9. JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure

Rating: 8.7

Streaming on: Crunchyroll, Hulu, Netflix

This timeless classic and the best anime series features several parts, and Jojo’s bizarre adventure was released in 2012. And this anime series stands out for featuring impressive graphics, which might have you wondering about the artistry that went into making each part of this series. Other than the visuals, you won’t find fights like in this top anime of all time. Along with that, Araki’s fashion sense had us making notes.

10. One Punch Man

Rating:

Streaming on:

While most anime series can be too emotional to watch, One-Punch Man stands out as the best anime series for the intense, action-packed battles while blending comedy. The series centers on Saitama, an ordinary man with a simple goal—to become a hero. While the concept may seem typical, Saitama’s relentless three-year training regimen turns him into one of the most overpowered characters ever, though it also costs him all his hair.

11. Neon Genesis Evangelion

Rating:

Streaming on: Crunchyroll, Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video

Neon Genesis Evangelion is the best anime series created by Hideaki Anno, which originally aired from 1995 to 1996. Set in a post-apocalyptic world in the year 2015, the story follows humanity’s fight for survival against enigmatic creatures known as Angels. Taking place in Tokyo-3, a city specifically designed to withstand these attacks, the series unfolds in the aftermath of a devastating global event called the Second Impact, which left humanity on the brink of extinction.

12. Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion

Rating: 8.5

Streaming on: Crunchyroll

This best anime series features the 90s timeline in which the world only consists of the Big 3, the European Union, The Holy Britannian Empire, and the Chinese Federation. This political thriller features Lelouch, a former Britannian prince exiled to Japan, who vows to overthrow his father’s empire. With its blend of political intrigue, captivating mythology, and compelling characters, the series has earned its place as one of the top anime of all time.

13. My Hero Academia

Rating: 8.4

Streaming on: Crunchyroll, Netflix, Amazon Prime Video

My Hero Academia portrays the struggles of a superhero and realism with impressive visuals. It follows the journey of Izuku Midoriya, a boy born without powers in a world where superhuman abilities are the norm. Though he inherits a Quirk from a legendary hero, mastering it proves to be a constant struggle.

Even as he learns to control his newfound strength, Deku faces ongoing challenges and formidable villains. His story is one of perseverance as he strives to become the hero he dreams of—without ever reaching a point of effortless perfection.

14. Vinland Saga

Rating: 8.4

Streaming on: Crunchyroll, Netflix, Amazon Prime Video

The series dramatizes the story of Thorfinn Karlsefni and his expedition to find Vinland, focusing primarily on the transformation of his fictional counterpart. Initially driven by vengeance and bloodlust, Thorfinn gradually evolves into a pacifist. In contrast, the narrative also follows the rise of King Canute, whose journey to power starkly contrasts with Thorfinn’s path of personal growth and redemption.

15. Made in Abyss

Rating: 8.4

Streaming on: Crunchyroll, Amazon Prime Video, Netflix, HiDive

Despite all the warnings you might get for this anime series, Made in Abyss highlights the feeling of despair. Riko and Reg live in a world centered around a vast and mysterious chasm called the Abyss. Few who venture into its depths return alive, as ascending brings devastating consequences far worse than decompression sickness.

Believing her mother to be lost, Riko embarks on a perilous journey with Reg to uncover the secrets of the Abyss. As the story unfolds, it grows increasingly fantastical and unsettling, much like the Abyss. The series keeps viewers on edge with its breathtaking creature designs, gripping mystery, and determined characters.

16. Mob Psycho 100

Rating: 8.4

Streaming on: Crunchyroll, Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, JioHotstar

This anime series features Mob, an eighth-grader who is known for specializing in exorcising evil spirits. But, here’s the catch. His extortion capabilities are tied to his emotions. If Mob feels filled with emotions, his skills are coming to best use. While the series only features basic graphics, however, the storyline will keep you hooked to the screen.

17. Jujutsu Kaisen

Rating: 8.4

Streaming on: Crunchyroll, Netflix, Amazon Prime Video

Jujutsu Kaisen (JJK) is the best anime of all time, where you get to walk through the dark chronicles of Sukuna, raising Yuji Itadori as one of the best anime characters. Unlike other typical animes, JJK has a strong emotional impact while narrating the student experience of the featured trio.

Jujutsu Kaisen’s catchy characters, action-filled drama, horror, and comedy make it one of the best anime series of all time. Whether you’re new to anime or an enthusiast, JJK is a top choice for all!

18. Yu Yu Hakusho

Rating: 8.4

Streaming on: Crunchyroll, Netflix, Amazon Prime Video

Yu Yu Hakusho is a must-have on the list if you’re looking for Isekai classics to start with. This anime series features Yu Yu Hakusho, a fourteen-year-old troublemaker. Despite being known to be the one causing trouble, the boy dies, saving a kid from a car accident. His sudden death brings him to a finale where there’s no spot reserved for him in the afterlife–giving him another shot in life.

19. Berserk (1997)

Rating: 8.3

Streaming on: Crunchyroll, Amazon Prime Video, YouTube

The true fans know it; the Berserk manga hit the charts during its release in 1989. Soon after that, the Berserk anime series was released in 1997, gaining the same popularity. It features Guts, a mercenary warrior who gets into a fight with another mercenary group, the Band of the Hawk, and its leader, Griffith. This classic anime of all time narrates the tale of Guts and his journey of seeking revenge on Griffith, who sacrificed his comrades to achieve the demonic powers to reign supreme.

20. Tengen Toppa Gurren Lagann

Rating: 8.3

Streaming on: Crunchyroll, Netflix, Hulu

Despite being among the best classic animes, Tengen Toppa Gurren Lagann features striking visuals that can even compete with modern anime titles. The anime rose to popularity for its thrilling ,action-packed scenes.

The storyline features the protagonist Simon and Kamina. Both aim to fight all powers while reaching the mythical surfaces. As the mecha battles rage on, the heroes face formidable enemies at every turn. However, Gurren Lagann offers more than just high-energy action—it weaves in intriguing mysteries and dark secrets that drive the story forward, keeping the plot both thrilling and engaging.

21. Bleach: Thousand-Year Blood War

Rating: 8.3

Streaming on: Disney+, Hulu

With other anime series, such as Naruto and One Piece, released, the Bleach series took a step back in the popularity charts. However, the Thousand-Year Blood War helped the Bleach series regain its popularity as the best shonen anime.

The Soul Reapers are clashing with their longtime foes, the Quincy Tribe. An, this war will decide the Soul King’s fate. This action-packed anime will have you glued to the screen for shocking revelations, intense battles, and much more.

22. Chainsaw Man

Rating: 8.2

Streaming on: Crunchyroll, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video

After Denji’s father dies, he’s left with a massive debt and no way to repay it. With the help of Pochita, a Devil dog he once saved, he survives by doing odd jobs and hunting Devils for the Yakuza.

Pochita’s chainsaw powers proved invaluable in battle, but when the Yakuza betrays Denji and the Zombie Devil kills him, Pochita sacrifices himself to save him. As a result, Denji is reborn as a bizarre Devil-Human hybrid—Chainsaw Man!

Following his transformation, Makima recruits him into the Public Safety Devil Hunters. However, being the devil himself, he finds it hard to experience stability and grapple with his dreams.

23. Devilman Crybaby

Rating: 8.2

Streaming on: Netflix

This short, yet intriguing Netflix original anime isn’t for the younger audiences. It features 10 episodes that surround the literal theme: a devilman finding humanity. Devilman Crybaby follows a biblical take by referring to the Book of Revelation.

This modern anime series follows the story of love and sacrifice. The modern perspective gives the biblical themes a powerful impact on today’s audience. With its stunning visuals, electrifying Japanese hip-hop, and a cast of unforgettable characters, the experience is so captivating that you hardly notice its emotional weight.

24. Naruto: Shippuden

Rating: 8.0

Streaming on: Crunchyroll, Hulu

This manga converted into an anime is another best classic anime that you shouldn’t miss out on. Being a childhood favorite for many, the anime is a narration of a young ninja, Naruto, who seeks recognition from his friends and peers while aspiring to become a Hokage.

The series is divided into 2 volumes, the first being about the pre-teen years and the second being about his teens.

The Naruto series is known to be among the best three animes globally, even after it has ended. The nostalgic setting of the series, the experiences of a ninja, and the portrayal of Ninjas having the human feelings make Naruto a popular title among anime enthusiasts.

25. Revolutionary Girl Utena

Rating: 7.9

Streaming on: Crunchyroll, Amazon Prime Video

Released in 1997, Revolutionary Girl Utena is a 39-episode anime series that is now also available as a movie, game, and musical. As a child, the protagonist, Utena, was saved by a Prinve on a white horse.

Since then, Utena has aspired to become a prince and gets into the Ohtori Academy, where she participates in a sword duel to win Anthy Himemiya (The Rose Bride). Determined to protect Anthy, Utena joins the duels, and as they fight side by side, the two develop a profound bond.

26. Pokémon

Rating: 7.5

Streaming on: Netflix, Hulu

The Pokemon series is based on the Pokemon video games, featuring the duo of Ash and Pokemon. However, the broadcast of these series may vary according to your region. The series initially centered around Ash Ketchum, a young trainer on a quest to become a Pokemon Master.

Accompanied by his loyal partner, Pikachu, and a rotating group of companions, Ash travels across different Pokémon regions, battling in Pokémon League tournaments and encountering countless adventures along the way.

27. Sailor Moon

Rating: 7.5

Streaming on: Crunchyroll, Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, Pluto TV, Tubi

The protagonist, Tsukino Usagi, is a schoolgirl living in Tokyo who meets a magical black cat, Luna. Meanwhile, Usagi possesses an amulet that allows her to transform into a super-powered defender of Earth—Sailor Moon. Usagi and her school friends, a group of allies, battle against villains who seek to steal the Silver Crystal and destroy the Solar System. This anime series is best known for its theme songs, which are more prominent than those in any other anime.

Final Note

According to Statista, a survey conducted in Japan in October 2024 found that 2.4% of respondents watched over 40 hours of anime per month. Additionally, 33.4% of participants reported watching at least one hour of anime monthly. Other than this, the anime industry is thriving–and for all the good reasons.

The best anime series feature visually striking graphics, impressive storylines, and a sense of relatability in the series, which makes you stick to the screen. However, the streaming platforms are often inaccessible due to geo-restrictions. For this, we recommend connecting to a reliable VPN, like FastestVPN, to bypass the geo-limitations and seamlessly stream your favorite titles.

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