Highest-rated Anime of All Time: Top Must-Watch Series and Movies for Every Fan

If you love anime or you are just starting your journey, finding the highest-rated anime to watch can feel overwhelming. There are thousands of titles, new series every season, and endless recommendations from friends and social media. It is very easy to spend more time scrolling than actually watching.

This guide solves that problem.

Here you will find a clear and friendly breakdown of some of the best anime of all time, across different genres. You will see highest-rated anime series, classic anime, and highest-rated anime movies that fans around the world talk about again and again. The focus here is on anime titles, not side topics, so every section gives you real shows and films you can add to your watchlist right away.

We will cover shonen, seinen, psychological, romance, drama, fantasy, isekai, legendary classics, and anime movies. By the end, you will have a strong anime watchlist that works for both beginners and long-time fans.

Introduction: What Makes an Anime “Highest-rated”?

When people talk about the highest-rated anime, they usually think about scores on big platforms, fan rankings, and top lists. But numbers alone do not tell the whole story.

A top rated anime usually stands out because of a mix of elements:

• A strong and engaging story
• Interesting and memorable characters
• Good pacing and structure
• High-quality animation and music
• Emotional impact and rewatch value
• Long-term popularity and influence

For example, fans praise shows like Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood or Attack on Titan not only for high ratings on websites, but also for their powerful themes, worldbuilding, and character growth. People recommend them years after release, which shows their lasting value.

This guide is helpful if:

• You are a complete beginner and want the best anime for beginners
• You already watch anime and want your next masterpiece
• You want a balanced anime watchlist with action, emotions, deep stories, and beautiful movies

We will look at different types of highest-rated anime:

• Shonen with battles, friendship, and growth
• Seinen and psychological shows with mature themes and mind games
• Romance and drama anime that focus on relationships and feelings
• Fantasy and isekai for other worlds and magic
• Classic anime series that shaped the industry
• Highest-rated anime movies that you can enjoy in one sitting

Use this guide as a starting point. Not every title will be your personal favorite, but each one is respected and loved by a large part of the anime community.

How We Selected These Highest-rated Anime

You might wonder how we decided which titles deserve to be called highest-rated anime. This is not a random list. It is based on several factors that many fans and critics consider important.

Here are the main points we used:

• Fan ratings and rankings
  We look at how often these anime appear in top lists and how highly they are rated on popular anime databases and community sites.
• Critical reception and awards
  Some series and movies win anime awards or receive strong praise from reviewers.
• Long-term popularity
  Titles like Naruto, One Piece, or Spirited Away keep getting new fans even many years after release. This lasting appeal matters.
• Cultural impact
  Some anime influence other series, start trends, or become part of global pop culture. For example, Dragon Ball Z helped define the image of shonen action anime for a whole generation.
• Story and emotional depth
  The highest-rated anime series are not only about flashy animation. They tell meaningful stories and leave a strong emotional mark.

With this approach, you get a top anime list that covers different tastes. There is something here for action lovers, romance fans, deep thinkers, and casual viewers who simply want something great to watch.

Highest-rated Shonen Anime You Must Watch

Shonen anime is one of the most popular categories worldwide. It is usually targeted at younger male audiences, but people of all ages enjoy it. Shonen focuses on action, friendship, character growth, and big emotional moments. If you want high energy and strong storytelling, these highest-rated shonen anime are perfect.

Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood

Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood is often ranked as one of the best anime of all time. It follows two brothers, Edward and Alphonse Elric, who use alchemy in a world where it is a powerful science. After a tragic attempt to bring their mother back to life, they pay a heavy price. Edward loses limbs. Alphonse loses his body and ends up bound to a suit of armor.

The story follows their journey to find the Philosopher’s Stone and restore their bodies. Along the way they uncover deep political plots, learn painful truths about their country, and meet allies and enemies with strong motivations.

The main themes include brotherhood, sacrifice, responsibility, and morality. The anime balances humor, action, and drama without filler. The pacing is tight. The ending is satisfying. This is why Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood appears on almost every highest-rated anime list.

Attack on Titan

Attack on Titan begins with a simple but powerful setup. Humanity lives inside giant walls to protect themselves from Titans, huge humanoid creatures that eat people. The main character, Eren Yeager, watches his hometown fall and swears to wipe out the Titans.

Soon, the story expands into something much deeper. It explores freedom, war, politics, and the gray areas of morality. There are many twists, shifting viewpoints, and shocking reveals. Characters like Mikasa, Armin, Levi, and Erwin are complex and memorable.

Fans love Attack on Titan for its intense action, dark atmosphere, and emotional storytelling. The soundtrack is iconic and the animation brings the battles to life. It is a true top rated anime series for those who want something epic and serious.

Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba

Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba follows Tanjiro Kamado, a kind boy whose family is killed by demons. His sister Nezuko survives but becomes a demon herself. Tanjiro joins the Demon Slayer Corps to fight demons and find a way to cure Nezuko.

This anime is famous for its stunning animation and beautiful fight scenes. The use of breathing techniques and sword styles adds style to every battle. At the same time, the demons have tragic backstories, which gives the story emotional depth.

The bond between Tanjiro and Nezuko, and his kindness toward others, make this series stand out. It is one of the highest-rated shonen anime of recent years and a strong choice for both new and experienced fans.

Jujutsu Kaisen

Jujutsu Kaisen is a modern action anime that quickly became very popular. It tells the story of Yuji Itadori, a high school student who swallows a cursed finger to save his friends. He becomes the host of a powerful curse called Sukuna.

Yuji joins a school for jujutsu sorcerers, where he meets characters like Megumi Fushiguro, Nobara Kugisaki, and the powerful teacher Satoru Gojo. The world is filled with curses, dangerous fights, and dark secrets.

Fans love Jujutsu Kaisen for its fast pacing, stylish action, and strong character interactions. The fights feel dynamic and the humor balances the darker moments. It is one of the best shonen anime for people who want something fresh and energetic.

My Hero Academia

My Hero Academia takes place in a world where most people have powers called Quirks. Being a superhero is a real job. The main character, Izuku Midoriya (Deku), is born without a Quirk, but dreams of becoming a great hero like his idol All Might.

His life changes when All Might chooses him as his successor and passes on his power. Deku joins U.A. High School and trains with classmates like Bakugo, Todoroki, and Uraraka.

This anime focuses on growth, mentorship, and what it truly means to be a hero. It shows both the exciting side of hero work and the heavy responsibility that comes with power. My Hero Academia is a very popular top rated anime series and a good pick for viewers who enjoy character-driven action.

Hunter x Hunter

Hunter x Hunter follows Gon Freecss, a boy who wants to become a Hunter and find his father. Hunters are licensed to explore dangerous places, catch criminals, and seek treasures. Along the way Gon meets Killua, Kurapika, and Leorio, and they form a strong group.

What makes Hunter x Hunter special is its smart writing and tone shifts. The Nen power system is deep and flexible. Each arc feels different, with unique rules and emotional stakes. The Chimera Ant arc, in particular, is famous for its psychological depth and moral complexity.

This series proves that shonen can be both thrilling and thoughtful. Many fans consider it one of the highest-rated anime ever made.

Highest-rated Seinen and Psychological Anime for Deep Thinkers

If you like stories that make you think and question characters’ choices, you will enjoy psychological anime and seinen anime. These shows often feature older characters, darker themes, and more complex plots. They are perfect for viewers who want something more mature.

Death Note

Death Note is a classic psychological thriller. The story begins when Light Yagami, a top student, finds a notebook dropped by a Shinigami named Ryuk. Any name written in the notebook will die. Light decides to use it to create a new world free of crime, where he will act as a god.

Opposing him is L, a strange but brilliant detective. What follows is a tense cat and mouse game filled with strategy, lies, and bold moves. The anime raises questions about justice, power, and corruption.

Fans love Death Note because of its sharp writing, memorable characters, and constant tension. It is one of the most famous psychological anime and a great starting point for mature series.

Code Geass

Code Geass takes place in an alternate world where the Holy Britannian Empire rules over Japan, now called Area 11. The main character, Lelouch vi Britannia, is an exiled prince who gains a power called Geass. It allows him to give people irresistible commands.

Lelouch uses this power to start a rebellion against Britannia. The anime mixes mecha battles with political strategy, personal conflict, and big twists. Lelouch is one of the most complex anti-heroes in anime.

The show explores themes of war, sacrifice, identity, and the cost of revolution. Code Geass is widely seen as one of the best seinen anime and a key highest-rated anime for fans who want both action and brains.

Monster

Monster is a slow but powerful psychological thriller. It follows Dr. Kenzo Tenma, a talented brain surgeon in Germany. After saving the life of a young boy instead of a politician, his life begins to fall apart. Years later, he discovers that the boy, Johan, has become a dangerous killer.

Tenma sets out to stop Johan, but the story becomes much larger. It explores questions of evil, free will, trauma, and responsibility. There are many side characters, each with their own stories and moral struggles.

This mature anime series does not rely on flashy fights. Instead, it builds tension through dialogue, mystery, and atmosphere. Monster is highly recommended for viewers who enjoy deep crime dramas.

Steins;Gate

Steins;Gate is a sci-fi psychological anime that revolves around time travel. The main character, Rintarou Okabe, is a self-proclaimed mad scientist who spends time with his friends at a small lab. After a strange incident, they discover they can send messages to the past using a microwave and a phone.

At first, their experiments seem harmless. However, each small change to the past creates serious consequences. The tone shifts from light comedy to intense drama and suspense.

Fans love Steins;Gate for its clever plot, emotional weight, and strong character relationships, especially between Okabe and Kurisu. It is often listed as one of the highest-rated psychological anime and a must-watch for sci-fi fans.

Highest-rated Romance and Drama Anime That Will Break Your Heart (In a Good Way)

Not every highest-rated anime is about battles and powers. Some of the best anime of all time are simple stories about love, regret, and human connection. If you enjoy emotions and character-driven stories, this section is for you.

Your Name (Kimi no Na wa)

Your Name is a romantic fantasy movie about two teenagers, Mitsuha and Taki, who mysteriously begin switching bodies. They live in different places and have different lives. Through these body swaps, they start to learn about each other and grow closer.

The story later connects to a larger event involving a comet and a town in danger. The film blends romance, time, and fate in a beautiful way.

With stunning animation and a strong soundtrack, Your Name became a global hit. Many people consider it one of the highest-rated anime movies and one of the best romance anime of recent years.

A Silent Voice

A Silent Voice is a powerful drama about bullying, guilt, and redemption. It follows Shoya Ishida, who used to bully a deaf girl named Shoko Nishimiya in elementary school. As he grows older, he feels deep regret for his actions and becomes isolated.

He later seeks out Shoko to apologize and try to make things right. The story deals with mental health, communication issues, and the struggle to forgive oneself.

This film is emotional and realistic. It does not glamorize pain. It shows how hard it can be to fix past mistakes. A Silent Voice is a top choice if you want an emotional anime that stays with you.

Clannad: After Story

Clannad: After Story continues the story of Tomoya Okazaki after high school, focusing on his relationship with Nagisa Furukawa and their life as adults. Unlike many school anime, this one explores work, marriage, family, and hardship.

The show is known for being one of the saddest anime ever. It deals with themes of family bonds, loss, and hope. Many viewers cry while watching it, but also feel comforted.

If you want a sad anime that also offers healing and warmth, Clannad: After Story is a classic choice in the highest-rated romance anime category.

Your Lie in April

Your Lie in April centers on Kousei Arima, a former piano prodigy who stopped playing after his mother’s death. He sees the world in a dull way and lives without passion. His life changes when he meets Kaori Miyazono, a free-spirited violinist.

Kaori’s music style is emotional and wild. She inspires Kousei to return to piano and face his fears. The anime uses music performances to express feelings and inner conflict.

It is a beautiful mix of romance, music, and tragedy. If you like emotional coming-of-age stories, Your Lie in April deserves a place on your anime watchlist.

Toradora!

Toradora! is a high school romance anime that follows Ryuuji, who looks scary but is gentle, and Taiga, a small but fierce girl known as the “Palmtop Tiger.” They agree to help each other with their crushes, but things do not go as planned.

The show is funny at first, but slowly becomes more emotional. It explores friendship, family issues, and the fear of being honest about your feelings.

Toradora! is often named among the best romance anime because of its satisfying character development and strong ending.

Horimiya

Horimiya focuses on Hori, a popular and capable girl, and Miyamura, a quiet boy with a secret side. Outside school, Miyamura has tattoos and piercings and a very different look from his shy classroom image.

The series explores how they get closer and how their relationship affects their friends. It feels warm, gentle, and realistic. There is drama, but it is not overly heavy.

If you want a feel-good romance anime that still feels grounded, Horimiya is a great pick.

Highest-rated Fantasy and Isekai Anime for Escapist Adventures

Fantasy and isekai anime are perfect when you want to escape reality and dive into other worlds. These highest-rated fantasy anime and best isekai anime give you magic, monsters, and grand adventures.

Sword Art Online

In Sword Art Online, players join a virtual reality MMORPG, only to discover they cannot log out. If they die in the game, they die in real life. The main character, Kirito, is a skilled player who tries to clear the game and free everyone.

The series mixes romance, action, and game mechanics. It helped popularize the trapped-in-a-game concept in anime, and many later shows followed its style.

Even though opinions can be mixed, Sword Art Online remains an important and very popular top fantasy anime.

Re:Zero − Starting Life in Another World

Re:Zero follows Subaru Natsuki, who is transported to a fantasy world. Soon he discovers a terrible power. When he dies, time resets, and he returns to a certain point in the past. Only he remembers the previous loops.

This leads to intense emotional and psychological suffering. Subaru must watch people he cares about die and try again to save them. The anime mixes dark fantasy with character-focused drama.

If you want an isekai recommendation with strong suspense and emotion, Re:Zero is a great choice.

That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime

In That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime, an ordinary office worker dies and is reborn in a fantasy world as a slime monster named Rimuru. Despite the funny idea, the anime has smart worldbuilding and a lot of charm.

Rimuru gains powerful abilities and becomes a leader who builds a nation for different races. The show feels light-hearted but still has serious conflicts and political elements.

This series is a fun and relaxing best isekai anime entry, especially if you want something less dark.

Mushoku Tensei: Jobless Reincarnation

Mushoku Tensei: Jobless Reincarnation is considered one of the early works that shaped modern isekai. It follows a man who dies and is reborn as Rudeus Greyrat in a fantasy world, with all his memories intact.

He decides to live this new life without repeating his old mistakes. The anime focuses on long-term character growth, magic training, travel, and relationships. The world feels detailed and alive.

This is a good pick if you want highest-rated fantasy anime with a heavy focus on character development and worldbuilding.

Made in Abyss

Made in Abyss looks cute at first, but it is one of the darkest and most intense fantasy anime. It is set in a town built around a giant hole called the Abyss. The deeper you go, the more dangerous and strange it becomes. There are valuable relics, but also terrible curses.

The story follows Riko and a robot boy named Reg as they descend into the Abyss to find Riko’s mother. The further they go, the harsher the journey becomes, physically and emotionally.

With its beautiful art and haunting atmosphere, Made in Abyss stands out as a unique and powerful top fantasy anime.

Fate/stay night: Unlimited Blade Works

Fate/stay night: Unlimited Blade Works is part of the larger Fate universe. It centers on the Holy Grail War, a secret battle where mages summon heroic spirits known as Servants to fight for a wish-granting artifact.

The story follows Shirou Emiya and Rin Tohsaka as they form an alliance. The anime offers stylish battles, philosophical discussions about ideals, and a rich lore that ties into other Fate works.

If you want cool fights and a grand feeling, this is a highest-rated anime you should try.

Classic and Legendary Highest-rated Anime That Shaped the Industry

Some anime are so influential that they become legends. These classic anime are older, but they still attract new fans and inspire new creators. If you want to understand the history of anime, these are must-watch titles.

Naruto

Naruto follows Naruto Uzumaki, a loud and lonely boy who dreams of becoming Hokage, the leader of his village. He has a powerful fox spirit sealed inside him, which makes others fear or avoid him.

Across Naruto and Naruto Shippuden, we see his journey from troublemaker to respected hero. The anime explores themes of loneliness, perseverance, friendship, and the cycle of hatred.

With memorable characters like Sasuke, Sakura, Kakashi, and many others, Naruto is a highest-rated classic anime for anyone who loves long-running stories and emotional fights.

Bleach

Bleach tells the story of Ichigo Kurosaki, a teenager who accidentally gains the powers of a Soul Reaper. Soul Reapers guide souls to the afterlife and fight Hollows, dangerous spirits.

The series is famous for its cool character designs, spiritual sword fights, and strong arcs like the Soul Society arc. It has intense battles and a large cast of characters, each with unique abilities.

Although it has ups and downs, Bleach remains a beloved legendary anime for many fans.

One Piece

One Piece is one of the longest-running and most popular anime ever. It follows Monkey D. Luffy and his pirate crew as they sail the seas searching for the One Piece, the greatest treasure in the world.

The show is full of adventure, humor, and emotional moments. Each island has its own story and culture. The crew members all have dreams and backstories that touch viewers’ hearts.

With its worldbuilding and strong themes of freedom and found family, One Piece stands as a top example of best long-running anime and a core title in any highest-rated anime list.

Dragon Ball Z

Dragon Ball Z is a massive part of anime history. It continues the story of Goku as he protects Earth from powerful enemies such as Vegeta, Frieza, Cell, and Majin Buu.

The series defined shonen action for many fans. Power-ups, transformations, intense training, and planet-shaking battles are all part of its charm. Many people outside Japan discovered anime through Dragon Ball Z.

Even today, its influence can be seen in newer top rated anime series.

Neon Genesis Evangelion

Neon Genesis Evangelion looks like a mecha anime at first, with teenagers piloting giant robots against mysterious beings called Angels. However, the story quickly becomes a deep exploration of trauma, depression, and identity.

The main character, Shinji Ikari, struggles with acceptance and self-worth. The series uses symbolism and psychological elements to tell its story. The ending and movies sparked many debates and interpretations.

Neon Genesis Evangelion is a key legendary anime that changed how people see what anime can be.

Cowboy Bebop

Cowboy Bebop follows a group of bounty hunters traveling through space on a ship called the Bebop. The main characters are Spike Spiegel, Jet Black, Faye Valentine, Ed, and a smart dog named Ein.

Each episode feels like a mini movie, mixing action, drama, jazz music, and a sense of loneliness. The show blends Western, noir, sci-fi, and slice-of-life elements.

Because of its style and mature storytelling, Cowboy Bebop is often recommended as one of the best anime for beginners, especially for older viewers.

Gintama

Gintama is a unique mix of comedy, parody, and serious drama. It is set in an alternate Edo period where aliens have taken over Japan. The main character, Gintoki Sakata, is a lazy but skilled samurai who takes odd jobs with his friends Shinpachi and Kagura.

The show is famous for its ridiculous humor and references to other anime. However, when it switches to serious arcs, it delivers strong action and emotional scenes.

Because of this blend, Gintama has a huge and loyal fanbase and is often included in lists of highest-rated anime.

Highest-rated Anime Movies You Should Watch at Least Once

Anime movies are great if you want a complete story in one sitting. Many of the highest-rated anime movies have amazing visuals, music, and emotional impact.

Spirited Away

Spirited Away, directed by Hayao Miyazaki, tells the story of Chihiro, a young girl who enters a strange spirit world while moving to a new home. Her parents are turned into pigs, and she must work at a bathhouse for spirits to find a way to save them.

The film is full of creative creatures, emotional growth, and beautiful moments. It won major awards and is often called one of the best anime films of all time.

Princess Mononoke

Princess Mononoke is another Studio Ghibli classic. It follows Ashitaka, a prince cursed by a demon. He becomes involved in a conflict between a forest’s gods and a human settlement that destroys nature to survive and grow.

The movie does not show simple good and bad sides. Instead, it shows complex motivations. It deals with war, nature, and industry, and it has powerful action scenes and deep themes.

Howl’s Moving Castle

Howl’s Moving Castle is a fantasy movie about Sophie, a young woman who is turned into an old lady by a witch. She meets the mysterious wizard Howl and ends up living in his moving castle.

The film mixes war, magic, romance, and self-discovery. The moving castle itself is full of charming details. The soundtrack and animation make it a relaxing and magical watch.

Weathering With You

Weathering With You is about Hodaka, a runaway boy in Tokyo, and Hina, a girl who can make the rain stop by praying. Tokyo is experiencing constant rain, and her power becomes both a blessing and a burden.

The film blends romance with questions about sacrifice and personal choice. The visuals of rain, light, and the city are stunning. It is a great pick if you enjoyed Your Name.

Suzume

Suzume follows a girl named Suzume who meets a mysterious traveler searching for doors that lead to disasters. When Suzume opens one of these doors, she gets involved in a mission to close such doors across Japan.

The film combines road trip adventure, supernatural elements, and emotional storytelling. It is another strong entry from modern anime cinema and fits well in a highest-rated anime movies list.

Other notable films to remember include Grave of the Fireflies, The Girl Who Leapt Through Time, and 5 Centimeters per Second. These also stand out as some of the best anime films in terms of drama and emotion.

How to Choose Which Highest-rated Anime to Watch First

With so many highest-rated anime on this list, it can still be hard to decide where to start. The best approach is to choose based on your mood and taste.

Here are some simple paths:

• If you love action and adventure
  Start with Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood, Attack on Titan, Jujutsu Kaisen, or My Hero Academia.
• If you prefer emotional and romantic stories
  Try Your Name, A Silent Voice, Your Lie in April, or Clannad: After Story.
• If you want deep and complex plots
  Go for Death Note, Steins;Gate, Monster, or Code Geass.
• If you want classic long-running anime
  Begin with Naruto, One Piece, Dragon Ball Z, or Cowboy Bebop.

For movies, you do not need to worry about anime watch order. You can jump straight into Spirited Away or Your Name and enjoy them as standalone experiences.

Give each anime a few episodes to see if it fits your taste. Not every top rated anime will work for everyone, and that is okay.

Conclusion: Build Your Own Highest-rated Anime Watchlist

The world of anime is huge, but starting with highest-rated anime helps you avoid endless searching and get straight to the good stuff. From shonen powerhouses like Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood and Attack on Titan, to emotional dramas like Your Name and A Silent Voice, to classics like Naruto, One Piece, and Cowboy Bebop, there is something here for every type of viewer.

Use this guide as a flexible anime watchlist, not a strict rulebook. The best anime of all time is different for each person. As you watch, you will discover which genres and styles you enjoy most, and you will start to build your own list of favorites.

Try a few titles from different sections. Explore both series and movies. Share your own recommendations with friends or in comments. And remember, whether you are watching your first anime or your fiftieth, there is always another masterpiece waiting for you in the world of highest-rated anime.