Let’s be real, choosing the “best” anime is like picking a favorite child – impossible. Taste is subjective, my friend. But, being the benevolent anime overlord that I am (self-proclaimed, obviously), I’ve compiled a list of absolute bangers that deserve a spot on your watchlist. We’re talking classics, hidden gems, and everything in-between. So, ditch your spreadsheets, cancel your therapy appointments (just kidding…mostly), and prepare for an anime adventure of epic proportions.
Think of this list not as a definitive ranking, but more like a curated selection of face-melting awesomeness. From mind-bending plots to animation so slick you could slide on it, these anime are guaranteed to leave you screaming “MORE!” So, grab your ramen, strap in, and prepare for liftoff. This ain’t your grandma’s anime, folks. Unless your grandma’s a total badass. Then, maybe.
Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood (Again, Because It’s That Good)
Genre: Alchemy, Angst, and Automail
Episodes: 64
Released: 2009-2010
Look, I know, I know. I already mentioned this one. But seriously, if you haven’t seen FMA: Brotherhood, you’re doing anime wrong. It’s the holy grail of shonen, blending action, philosophy, and heartwarming brotherly love into a perfect storm of awesome. Two brothers, one short, one a walking suit of armor – what’s not to love?
Ed and Al’s quest to reclaim their bodies after a forbidden alchemy experiment gone wrong is a rollercoaster of emotions. Prepare for epic battles, political intrigue, and enough feels to fill an ocean. This anime punches you right in the feels, but in a good way. Like a therapeutic punch.
Seriously, go watch it. I’ll be here when you get back, basking in the glow of its brilliance.
Steins;Gate
Genre: Time Travel, Tuna, and Texting
Episodes: 24
Released: 2011
Okabe Rintarou, self-proclaimed mad scientist extraordinaire, accidentally invents a time machine (disguised as a microwave, naturally). What could possibly go wrong? Everything. Prepare for mind-bending paradoxes, gut-wrenching choices, and a whole lot of “what the actual heck?!”
This anime is a slow burn, but trust me, it’s worth it. The suspense builds like a pressure cooker, twisting and turning until your brain explodes. But in a good way. Like a knowledge explosion.
Steins;Gate is a masterpiece of science fiction storytelling. It’s smart, complex, and emotionally devastating (in the best way possible). Just be prepared to question the nature of reality itself.
Cowboy Bebop
Genre: Space Cowboys, Jazzy Tunes, and Existential Dread
Episodes: 26
Released: 1998
Bang. Cowboy Bebop is a timeless classic that transcends generations. A ragtag crew of bounty hunters, chasing criminals across the galaxy in a spaceship named the Bebop. Think space western meets jazz odyssey with a side of existentialism.
Spike Spiegel, the coolest anime character ever (don’t @ me), is a master of martial arts, a lover of jazz, and a man haunted by his past. Prepare for stylish action sequences, philosophical musings, and a melancholic beauty that will stay with you long after the credits roll.
Cowboy Bebop is a must-watch for any anime fan. It’s a masterpiece of style, substance, and soulful storytelling. See you, space cowboy…
Samurai Champloo
Genre: Edo-Era Hip-Hop Samurai Showdown
Episodes: 26
Released: 2004-2005
A wandering samurai, a hip-hop loving ronin, and a feisty waitress on a quest to find the “samurai who smells of sunflowers.” Yeah, you read that right. Samurai Champloo is a stylistic masterpiece, blending Edo-era Japan with hip-hop beats and breakdancing samurai.
Prepare for sword fights choreographed to funky beats, quirky characters, and a whole lot of anachronistic awesomeness. This anime is a visual feast, a sonic delight, and a narrative rollercoaster.
If you’re looking for something fresh, stylish, and utterly unique, look no further than Samurai Champloo. It’s a true gem.
Psycho-Pass
Genre: Cyberpunk Crime Thriller with a Philosophical Twist
Episodes: 22
Released: 2012
In a futuristic society where your mental state is constantly monitored, the Sibyl System determines your potential for criminality. But what happens when the system itself is flawed? Psycho-Pass explores the dark side of a seemingly utopian world, where justice is automated and free will is an illusion.
Prepare for thought-provoking questions about the nature of crime, the limits of technology, and the meaning of humanity. This anime is dark, gritty, and intellectually stimulating.
If you’re a fan of cyberpunk, crime thrillers, and philosophical dilemmas, Psycho-Pass is a must-watch.
Attack on Titan
Genre: Humanity’s Last Stand Against Giant Naked Humanoids
Episodes: 94
Released: 2013
Giant naked humanoids with a penchant for human snacks terrorize the remnants of humanity. What’s left of mankind hides behind giant walls, praying for survival. Then, everything goes to hell.
Attack on Titan is a brutal, terrifying, and utterly captivating anime. Prepare for epic battles, shocking plot twists, and a whole lot of existential dread.
This anime is not for the faint of heart. It’s violent, disturbing, and emotionally intense. But if you can handle the gore, you’ll be rewarded with a truly epic story.
Death Note
Genre: Supernatural Cat-and-Mouse Game with a God Complex
Episodes: 37
Released: 2006-2007
A high school student finds a notebook that can kill anyone whose name is written in it. What does he do? He decides to create a new world, free of crime. Because why not? Death Note is a psychological thriller that explores the nature of justice, the corrupting influence of power, and the fine line between good and evil.
Light Yagami, our morally ambiguous protagonist, is a brilliant but ultimately flawed character. Prepare for mind games, moral dilemmas, and a battle of wits between two of the most intelligent characters in anime history.
Death Note is a must-watch for fans of psychological thrillers, moral ambiguity, and supernatural shenanigans. Just be prepared to question everything.
Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion
Genre: Mecha Mayhem and Machiavellian Maneuvers
Episodes: 50 (2 seasons)
Released: 2006-2008
(Yes, again. It’s worth repeating.) Lelouch vi Britannia commands you to watch this anime! Armed with Geass, the power of absolute obedience, Lelouch leads a rebellion against the oppressive Britannian Empire.
This anime is a whirlwind of political intrigue, mecha battles, and moral ambiguity. Lelouch is a brilliant strategist, but his methods are…questionable. Prepare for mind games, betrayals, and enough plot twists to give you whiplash.
Code Geass is a must-watch for fans of complex characters, high-stakes drama, and mecha action. All hail Lelouch!
Made in Abyss
Genre: Adorable Art Style, Abysmal Horror
Episodes: 13 + Movies
Released: 2017
(Double dipping, because it’s just that messed up and amazing). Seriously, don’t let the cutesy art style fool you. This anime is DARK. Riko and Reg’s descent into the Abyss is a journey into the heart of darkness.
Prepare for heartwarming moments, nightmare fuel creatures, and an emotional rollercoaster that will leave you breathless. This anime is a beautiful and terrifying exploration of the unknown. Proceed with caution.
Mob Psycho 100
Genre: Psychic Powers, Puberty Problems, and Perfect Animation
Episodes: 25 (3 seasons)
Released: 2016-2022
Mob, a middle schooler with god-level psychic abilities, just wants to be normal. Too bad his emotions have other plans. When his repressed feelings reach 100%, things get…explosive. And awesome.
This anime is a brilliant blend of action, comedy, and heartwarming coming-of-age themes. The animation is mind-blowingly good, the characters are lovable dorks, and the message is surprisingly deep.
Mob Psycho 100 is a must-watch for everyone. Seriously. Everyone.
One Punch Man
Genre: Superhero Satire Done Right
Episodes: 24 (2 Seasons)
Released: 2015-2019
Saitama is so strong, he defeats every enemy with one punch. The problem? He’s bored as hell. This anime is a hilarious send-up of superhero tropes, with over-the-top action and a surprisingly relatable protagonist.
One Punch Man is pure, unadulterated fun. The animation is top-notch, the fight scenes are epic (even if they’re over in a flash), and the humor is on point.
A must-watch for anyone who needs a good laugh and a break from serious anime.
Barakamon
Genre: Calligraphy, Countryside, and Cuteness Overload
Episodes: 12
Released: 2014
(Because sometimes you just need a dose of heartwarming fluff). A grumpy calligrapher finds himself banished to a remote island, where he learns valuable life lessons from a bunch of adorable island kids. Prepare for a heartwarming, hilarious, and utterly charming slice-of-life experience.
Barakamon is the perfect anime antidote to stress and cynicism. It’s sweet, funny, and guaranteed to make you smile.
The Promised Neverland (Season 1)
Genre: Orphanage of Oh-My-God-What?!
Episodes: 12
Released: 2019
(Worth mentioning again, just to reiterate: STOP AFTER SEASON 1). This anime is a masterclass in suspense. A seemingly idyllic orphanage hides a dark secret, and three children are about to uncover the horrifying truth.
Watch Season 1. You won’t regret it. Just… pretend Season 2 doesn’t exist. Trust me on this one.
Whew! That’s it for now. Go forth and conquer your watchlist! And remember, this is just a starting point. The world of anime is vast and wondrous, waiting to be explored. So, get out there and discover your own gems! You might even find something even better than what’s on this list. But let’s be real, that’s pretty unlikely.
What makes a “good anime to watch”?
A good anime is more than just eye candy or action sequences—it’s about immersion. It pulls you into its world and makes you care about its characters. If the plot is weak, the show falls flat. Take Steins;Gate—it’s a slow burn, but once it grabs you, it messes with your mind and emotions. Attack on Titan doesn’t just hit hard with its intense action; it digs deep into human survival, fear, and sacrifice. A good anime makes you feel something long after the episode ends—whether it’s joy, anger, or even existential dread.
How do I choose the right anime based on my mood?
Choosing the right anime depends on your mood, but don’t just fall for generic “suggestions.” Are you in the mood for something high-energy, no-nonsense? Try One Punch Man—it’s an over-the-top parody of superhero tropes that’s as hilarious as it is epic. Want to feel emotionally wrecked? Made in Abyss hides its horrors behind a cute exterior and will leave you questioning everything you thought you knew. If you need something that makes you think without exhausting you, Cowboy Bebop offers philosophical depth wrapped in space western goodness. Get specific with what you need, and you’ll find something that hits exactly where it counts.
Should I stick with newer anime or explore the older classics?
Stop restricting yourself to just the new stuff. Some older anime, like Cowboy Bebop or Death Note, have set the gold standard for storytelling that newer shows still try to live up to. The animation might not be as crisp, but the writing and character depth make them timeless. On the other hand, newer shows like Attack on Titan or Mob Psycho 100 push boundaries with animation and complex narratives. You need both—newer anime will blow your mind with visuals, but older classics will hit you where it matters: story and characters. Don’t miss out on the legends just because they’re old.
Can an anime be both action-packed and emotionally deep?
Yes. Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood is the gold standard for this balance. It delivers insane action scenes, but it doesn’t sacrifice depth. The themes of brotherhood, sacrifice, and the human cost of power are explored in ways that make every punch land harder. Code Geass does the same—it’s full of mecha battles and political maneuvering, but at its core, it’s a psychological thriller with deep emotional consequences. Action doesn’t have to be shallow—it can be the backdrop for a complex narrative that leaves you thinking. A truly great anime makes the action mean something.
What are some hidden gems that aren’t mainstream but totally worth watching?
Don’t sleep on the gems that slip under the radar. Psycho-Pass offers a gripping cyberpunk narrative with philosophical dilemmas that’ll leave you questioning technology’s impact on society. Barakamon might seem like a simple slice-of-life about a grumpy calligrapher on an island, but it’s a beautifully understated story about self-discovery and the impact of community. The Promised Neverland (season 1) might start off innocent, but it evolves into one of the most intense, suspense-driven anime you’ll ever watch. These shows don’t get the hype they deserve, but if you’re tired of the mainstream picks, these will offer a fresh, deep experience without the fluff.
