Top Anime of All Time: The Ultimate Must Watch List for Every Fan

Introduction: Why “Top Anime of All Time” Is So Hard to Decide

If you had to pick just one anime to recommend to a friend, could you do it? Most fans would struggle. The world of anime is huge, emotional and packed with unforgettable shows. That is why making a list of the top anime of all time is both exciting and a little bit painful.

Anime is not just a type of cartoon from Japan. It is a global phenomenon. It has grown from niche late night TV broadcasts and fan made subtitles to a mainstream part of entertainment. Today you can watch some of the best anime series legally on major streaming platforms. You see cosplay at conventions, anime trends on social media, and references in music, games and movies. The most popular anime in the world now reach audiences in almost every country.

This blog will act as a complete guide for anyone who wants to explore the top anime of all time. It is designed for two kinds of readers. If you are a beginner, you will find a clear must watch anime list that will help you start your journey. If you are a long time fan, you will get a nostalgic trip through classics and masterpieces, along with a few reminders of gems you might have missed.

We will look at both classic and modern anime. You will see legendary shonen like Naruto, Dragon Ball Z, One Piece and Bleach. You will explore shows with deep storytelling such as Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood, Death Note, Attack on Titan and Steins;Gate. You will also find emotional slice of life and romance anime like Your Lie in April, Clannad: After Story and Fruits Basket. On top of that, we will highlight visually stunning series like Neon Genesis Evangelion, Cowboy Bebop and Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba, along with timeless anime films from Studio Ghibli and Makoto Shinkai.

By the end of this blog, you will have a solid understanding of what makes these titles the top anime of all time. You will also see that this list is not a final verdict. It is a starting point. Anime is diverse and constantly evolving, and that is exactly what makes it so fun to explore.

How This “Top Anime of All Time” List Was Chosen

When you search for the best anime to watch, you will find many lists. Some rank anime only by popularity. Others focus only on personal favorites. To make this guide more balanced, we use several clear criteria.

1. Selection Criteria

Influence on the medium

Some anime change the industry. Shows like Dragon Ball Z, Neon Genesis Evangelion and Cowboy Bebop inspired new generations of creators. They introduced new ways of telling stories, new art styles and new levels of animation quality. When an anime sets trends that other series follow, it deserves a place among the top anime of all time.

Popularity and cultural impact

Numbers are not everything, but they matter. Long running fanbases, record breaking sales, constant cosplay and online memes all show how deeply an anime has entered popular culture. One Piece, Naruto, Attack on Titan and Demon Slayer are perfect examples of this level of influence.

Critical reception

Awards, reviews and long term respect also help to shape this list. Many of the best anime series are praised for their writing, pacing, character development and direction. Titles like Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood, Steins;Gate and Spirited Away are often rated highly by both fans and critics.

Emotional impact and rewatch value

Finally, we consider how an anime feels. Do you remember the characters years later. Do certain scenes still make you cry, laugh or think. Can you rewatch the series and still enjoy it. Shows like Your Lie in April, Clannad: After Story and Violet Evergarden may not have the longest episode counts, but their emotional weight makes them unforgettable.

2. A Note About Personal Taste

Even with clear criteria, the idea of the “best” anime will always be subjective. Everyone arrives at anime through different doors. For some people, the top anime of all time will always be the series that first made them fall in love with the medium.

Think of this list as a curated map instead of a strict ranking. You can use it to find your own favorites, to compare opinions and to start discussions. At the end of the blog, feel free to create your own top 5 or top 10 and share it with other fans. That is part of the fun of being in the anime community.

3. Legendary Shonen: The Gateway Anime for Many Fans

For many people, shonen action series were their first step into anime. These shows follow young heroes, intense battles and emotional growth. They are full of friendship, rivalry and huge training arcs. The shonen series below are not just popular. They helped define what people around the world think of when they hear the word “anime.”

Dragon Ball Z

Dragon Ball Z is one of the most important titles in the history of anime. It follows Goku and his friends as they defend Earth from ever stronger enemies using martial arts, energy blasts and powerful transformations.

The main appeal of Dragon Ball Z lies in its high stakes battles and dramatic power ups. Moments like Goku turning Super Saiyan for the first time or Gohan’s rage against Cell are burned into the minds of fans. The show also has a strong nostalgic charm. For many viewers outside Japan, this was their first exposure to anime on TV.

It deserves to be called a top anime of all time because it shaped the structure of shonen action. Long training arcs, tournaments, villains who later become allies, and escalating power levels all became standard features in later shows like Naruto and One Piece. Without Dragon Ball Z, the modern landscape of action anime would look very different.

Naruto and Naruto Shippuden

Naruto follows Naruto Uzumaki, a loud and lonely boy who carries a sealed demon fox inside him. He is treated as an outcast by his village, but he dreams of becoming Hokage, the strongest ninja and the leader of his home.

The anime combines flashy ninja techniques with emotional storytelling. The backstories of characters like Gaara, Sasuke, Itachi and Jiraiya are full of pain and conflict. The series also delivers unforgettable fights, such as Naruto vs Sasuke at the Valley of the End, and has a soundtrack that many fans still listen to today.

Naruto Shippuden continues the story as the characters grow older and the stakes rise. The themes of perseverance, forgiveness and identity become stronger. Naruto’s journey from an unwanted troublemaker to a hero respected by all makes the series one of the most popular anime in the world. Its impact on the global fanbase earns it a secure place in any must watch anime list.

One Piece

One Piece tells the tale of Monkey D. Luffy, a young pirate with a rubber body and an unbreakable will. He sets sail with his crew, the Straw Hat Pirates, to find the legendary treasure known as the One Piece and become the Pirate King.

The magic of One Piece lies in its world building and emotional storytelling. Each island feels like its own mini world, with unique cultures, politics and challenges. The series mixes silly humor with heartbreaking tragedy. Arcs like Arlong Park, Enies Lobby and Marineford show how powerful this anime can be when it tackles themes of freedom, justice and loss.

Despite its length, One Piece maintains strong quality and a loyal fanbase. It is a pillar of shonen storytelling and often appears in discussions of the top anime of alltime. For many viewers, it is more than a show. It is a journey that spans years of their lives.

Bleach

Bleach centers on Ichigo Kurosaki, a teenager who can see ghosts. After an encounter with a Soul Reaper named Rukia, he takes on her powers and becomes involved in the world of Hollows, Soul Society and powerful spiritual battles.

The series is known for its stylish character designs, cool weapons and signature moves like Bankai. The Soul Society arc, in particular, is praised for its pacing, mysteries and intense fights. Fans love captains like Byakuya Kuchiki, Toshiro Hitsugaya and Kenpachi Zaraki, along with the complex villain Sosuke Aizen.

As part of the former “Big Three” along with Naruto and One Piece, Bleach helped define a generation of anime fans. Its influence on modern action anime and its iconic visual style make it a strong contender on any list of the best anime series.

Masterpiece Storytelling: Anime With Strong Plots and Complex Characters

Some shows stand out not only for fights or visuals but for their storytelling. These anime offer layered plots, deep themes and characters who feel real and flawed. If you love complex narratives, the following titles are must watch.

Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood

Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood follows brothers Edward and Alphonse Elric. After a forbidden alchemy ritual goes wrong, Edward loses an arm and a leg, and Alphonse loses his entire body and lives inside a suit of armor. They travel the world to find the Philosopher’s Stone and restore what they lost.

This anime balances action, humor, politics and philosophy. It explores themes such as sacrifice, war, racism, faith and the value of human life. The world feels rich and complete, with different countries, religions and power structures. Every major character, from Roy Mustang to Scar to Hohenheim, has clear motivations and growth.

Many fans and critics consider Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood one of the top anime of all time. It has a clear beginning, middle and end, and it wraps up its plot threads in a satisfying way. For viewers who want a complete and polished story, this is a perfect choice.

Death Note

In Death Note, a genius high school student named Light Yagami finds a supernatural notebook. If he writes a person’s name in it while thinking of their face, that person dies. Light decides to use the notebook to cleanse the world of criminals and create a new world where he rules as a god. He is soon challenged by L, a mysterious detective.

The show is a tense psychological battle between two brilliant minds. Instead of focusing on physical fights, Death Note explores questions such as what true justice is, how power can corrupt, and how far someone might go to avoid being caught. The cat and mouse dynamic between Light and L keeps viewers on the edge of their seats.

For many people, Death Note is one of the first serious, dark anime they watch. It opened the door to psychological and thriller anime for a massive audience. Its unique premise and moral themes secure its place among the best anime series ever made.

Attack on Titan

Attack on Titan begins with a simple idea. Humanity lives inside walled cities to protect itself from giant humanoid creatures called Titans that eat humans. When the outer wall is breached, a boy named Eren Yeager vows to destroy every Titan.

As the story progresses, Attack on Titan evolves into a complex tale about war, propaganda, freedom and the cycle of hatred. Each season raises new questions and reveals shocking truths about the world outside the walls. The anime is known for brutal action, constant tension and major character deaths.

This series became a global hit and started huge discussions online after almost every episode. Its bold risks, strong direction and deep themes help it stand as one of the top anime of all time, especially for fans who enjoy dark fantasy.

Code Geass

Code Geass follows Lelouch Lamperouge, an exiled prince living under the rule of the Holy Britannian Empire. He obtains a power called Geass that allows him to command anyone to follow his orders. With this power, he starts a rebellion under the masked identity Zero.

The anime mixes mecha battles with political intrigue and psychological drama. Lelouch is a complex anti hero whose actions always invite debate. The show deals with revolution, sacrifice and the cost of chasing a better world. It is full of twists, strategy and moments that keep viewers guessing.

Code Geass is often praised for its intense plot and memorable ending. It is a must for fans who enjoy morally gray characters and clever tactics. Its combination of mecha, rebellion and supernatural power makes it stand out as one of the best anime to watch for story lovers.

Steins;Gate

In Steins;Gate, a self proclaimed mad scientist named Okabe Rintarou and his small group of friends accidentally discover that they can send messages to the past using a modified microwave and a phone. Their experiments slowly change the timeline and drag them into a dangerous web of consequences.

The first half of the series takes its time to build the characters and the world. The tone is light but full of hints that something deeper is going on. In the second half, the story becomes much more intense and emotional as Okabe faces painful choices and heavy regrets.

Steins;Gate is beloved for its clever use of time travel, emotional payoff and strong character development, especially for Okabe and Kurisu. It is often recommended as one of the top anime of all time for viewers who enjoy science fiction and careful, well planned plots.

Heartfelt Slice of Life and Romance Anime

Not every top anime of all time needs massive battles or world ending stakes. Some of the most powerful shows focus on everyday life, love and the quiet struggles people face. These slice of life and romance anime can be just as intense as any action series, but in a different way.

Your Lie in April

Your Lie in April tells the story of Kousei Arima, a former piano prodigy who can no longer hear the sound of his own playing after a trauma related to his strict mother. His world changes when he meets Kaori Miyazono, a free spirited violinist who pulls him back into music.

The anime blends beautiful performances with themes of grief, healing and young love. Concert scenes are animated with care and supported by classical pieces that fit the tone of each moment. The relationship between Kousei and Kaori grows slowly, with many sweet and painful scenes.

This series is famous for making viewers cry. It reminds us how art and connection can help people move forward after loss. Because of its strong emotional impact and high production quality, Your Lie in April is often included on lists of the best romance anime and the top anime of all time.

Clannad: After Story

Clannad: After Story continues the story of Tomoya Okazaki and Nagisa Furukawa after high school. Instead of staying in a school setting, it follows them into adulthood, focusing on family, work and the hardships of real life.

The series tackles serious themes such as financial pressure, illness, parenthood and breaking cycles of pain. It shows how love can be tested by circumstances that are out of our control. There are also gentle supernatural elements that tie into the emotional core of the story.

Many viewers consider Clannad: After Story one of the saddest anime ever made. However, it is not sad just for the sake of it. The tears it brings often lead to reflection and a deeper appreciation of family and everyday moments. For fans of emotional storytelling, it is a vital part of any must watch anime list.

Toradora!

Toradora! is a high school romance that follows Ryuji, who looks scary but is kind, and Taiga, a small but fierce girl known as the Palmtop Tiger. They team up to help each other with their crushes, but over time their feelings shift.

The show mixes comedy and drama in a natural way. Early episodes are light and funny, while later ones dig into the characters’ insecurities, family issues and fears. The cast around them also feels real, with their own arcs and growth.

Because of its strong character development and touching ending, Toradora! is often recommended as one of the best anime series for romance fans. It proves that a simple school story can still feel fresh and powerful.

Fruits Basket (2019)

The 2019 remake of Fruits Basket adapts the entire manga and gives the story the complete treatment fans long wanted. It follows Tohru Honda, a kind and optimistic girl who ends up living with the mysterious Sohma family. Members of the family are cursed to transform into animals of the Chinese zodiac when hugged by someone of the opposite sex or when they are under severe stress.

At first the curse seems cute and funny, but the anime slowly reveals deep emotional wounds, abuse, isolation and trauma within the family. Tohru becomes a source of warmth and healing, but she also has her own unresolved pain.

Fruits Basket (2019) is a masterclass in slow, gentle character work. It deals with heavy themes while still offering hope and comfort. Many viewers rank it highly among the top anime of all time for slice of life and drama.

Visually Stunning And Mind Bending Anime

Some anime make a strong impression through style and experimentation. They play with visuals, direction and themes in ways that stay with you long after the final episode. The following titles are as much experiences as they are stories.

Neon Genesis Evangelion

Neon Genesis Evangelion follows Shinji Ikari, a teenager who is summoned by his distant father to pilot a giant bio mechanical weapon called an Eva. He must fight strange beings known as Angels to prevent the end of the world.

On the surface, it looks like a mecha show. In reality, it is a deep exploration of depression, anxiety, identity and human connection. The anime uses visual symbolism, raw dialogue and sometimes disturbing imagery to portray the inner struggles of its characters.

Evangelion changed how anime deals with psychological themes and has influenced countless series since. It is a must for anyone who wants to understand the history of the top anime of all time.

Cowboy Bebop

Cowboy Bebop follows a group of bounty hunters travelling in space on a ship called the Bebop. The main crew consists of Spike Spiegel, Jet Black, Faye Valentine, Ed and the data dog Ein. They take on random jobs to get by, but their pasts always catch up with them.

The anime combines science fiction with jazz music, noir style and western elements. Each episode feels like a small movie, with its own tone and message. The soundtrack by Yoko Kanno is legendary and adds personality to every scene.

Because of its strong direction, music and atmosphere, Cowboy Bebop is often recommended as a perfect starting point for new fans. It is widely seen as one of the best anime series ever produced and remains highly respected decades after its release.

Hunter x Hunter (2011)

The 2011 adaptation of Hunter x Hunter follows Gon Freecss, a cheerful boy who decides to become a Hunter to find his father. Along the way, he meets Killua, Kurapika and Leorio, and they face dangerous tests, criminal organizations and deadly creatures.

What makes Hunter x Hunter special is how it plays with shonen expectations. The power system, called Nen, is detailed and flexible. Battles rely more on strategy and understanding of abilities than on pure strength. The series is not afraid to get dark, especially in arcs like Yorknew City and Chimera Ant.

Many fans consider the Chimera Ant arc one of the finest story arcs in anime history. Because of its rich world, clever storytelling and complex morals, Hunter x Hunter is often placed among the top anime of all time in shonen and beyond.

Mob Psycho 100

Mob Psycho 100 tells the story of Shigeo Kageyama, nicknamed Mob, a quiet boy with extremely powerful psychic abilities. He works for a con man who pretends to be a psychic, while trying to live a normal life, control his emotions and figure out who he wants to be.

At first glance, the art style looks simple, but the animation is incredibly creative. Fight scenes are dynamic and wild, and even scenes of everyday life feel expressive. The show also has a strong heart. It focuses on growth, self acceptance and the value of normal, non dramatic progress in life.

Because it balances crazy visuals with sincere messages, Mob Psycho 100 has become a modern favorite. Many fans see it as one of the best anime to watch if you want both action and meaningful themes.

Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba

Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba follows Tanjiro Kamado, a kind boy whose family is slaughtered by demons. Only his sister Nezuko survives, but she is turned into a demon herself. Tanjiro becomes a demon slayer to avenge his family and find a cure for Nezuko.

The series stands out for its breathtaking animation. Sword techniques are shown with flowing elemental effects that look like moving paintings. The fight choreography is tight and fluid, and the backgrounds are full of detail. The story also offers emotional moments, as many demons have tragic pasts.

The success of Demon Slayer brought many new viewers to anime. Its movie, Mugen Train, broke box office records and proved the global power of anime films. Because of its impact and quality, it already deserves mention among the top anime of all time.

Anime Movies That Defined Generations

Anime films are a huge part of the medium. Some viewers discover anime through movies first and then move on to series. The following films have defined generations and show how powerful feature length anime can be.

Studio Ghibli Classics

Spirited Away

In Spirited Away, a young girl named Chihiro enters a strange spirit world while on a trip with her parents. Her parents are turned into pigs, and she must work in a bathhouse for spirits to find a way to free them and return home.

The film is full of imaginative creatures, detailed backgrounds and rich symbolism. It deals with themes like greed, identity and courage in a way that both children and adults can understand. Its magical atmosphere and emotional depth helped it win the Academy Award for Best Animated Feature.

Spirited Away is often the first anime movie recommended to newcomers. Many consider it one of the top anime of all time, not only among films but in the entire medium.

Princess Mononoke

Princess Mononoke takes place in a world where human industry clashes with the spirits of the forest. Ashitaka, a prince cursed by a demon, travels west and becomes involved in the conflict between Lady Eboshi’s iron town and the gods of the forest. He also meets San, a girl raised by wolves, known as Princess Mononoke.

The movie explores environmental themes, war and the idea that there are no simple good or bad sides in complex conflicts. The animation is stunning, with detailed landscapes, intense battles and expressive character designs.

Because of its moral complexity and visual power, Princess Mononoke is seen as a landmark in anime history and a key title in any must watch anime list.

My Neighbor Totoro

My Neighbor Totoro follows two young sisters, Satsuki and Mei, who move to the countryside while their mother is in the hospital. There, they meet friendly forest spirits, including the giant creature Totoro.

The film has gentle pacing and focuses on the wonder of childhood, the comfort of nature and the quiet strength of family bonds. It does not rely on heavy conflict or villains. Instead, it offers a warm and soothing experience.

Totoro has become a symbol of Studio Ghibli itself. For many viewers, this movie is a comfort watch they return to again and again. Its simple but powerful charm makes it one of the best anime movies of all time.

Makoto Shinkai’s Modern Hits

Your Name

Your Name follows two teenagers, Taki and Mitsuha, who live in different parts of Japan. They begin to randomly swap bodies and live each other’s lives, leading to funny and touching moments. As they grow closer, they realize there is a deeper mystery behind their connection.

The film blends romance, fantasy and drama with incredibly detailed city and rural backgrounds. It explores themes of distance, memory and fate. The soundtrack by Radwimps adds emotion to key scenes and has become popular on its own.

Your Name became one of the highest grossing anime films worldwide and introduced many new viewers to anime. Its wide appeal and strong emotions make it a modern classic and an important part of the top anime of all time conversation.

Weathering With You

In Weathering With You, a runaway boy named Hodaka moves to Tokyo and struggles to survive. He meets Hina, a girl who seems to have the power to clear the sky and stop the constant rain. Together they start a small business using her ability, but there is a cost.

The film mixes urban fantasy with a love story and questions about climate, sacrifice and personal choice. Like Your Name, it features gorgeous visuals, especially in its depictions of rain, sunlight and the city.

While it may not have matched the surprise impact of Your Name, Weathering With You continues Shinkai’s style and themes. It earns a place among best anime movies for fans who enjoy emotional stories with strong visual flair.

Other Essential Anime Worth Mentioning

There are many more anime that deserve a spot in your personal watchlist. Here are a few more titles that often appear in discussions of the best anime series:

• Jujutsu Kaisen
  A dark action shonen about curses, sorcerers and a boy who becomes host to a powerful curse. Known for smooth fight animation and cool characters.
• My Hero Academia
  A superhero school series set in a world where most people have powers called Quirks. Mixes classic shonen energy with modern hero themes.
• Haikyuu!!
  A sports anime about a passionate volleyball team. Famous for its dynamic matches, character growth and motivational energy.
• Violet Evergarden
  A drama about a former soldier learning to understand emotions while working as a letter writer. Stunning visuals and touching stories.
• Monster
  A psychological thriller about a doctor and a boy whose life he saved. Slow burn, dark and very intense.
• Gintama
  A comedy action series set in an alternate Edo period with aliens. Known for breaking the fourth wall, parodies and surprisingly serious arcs.
• Made in Abyss
  A dark adventure about children exploring a giant, dangerous hole called the Abyss. Looks cute at first but becomes very heavy.

These shows cover many genres and tones, from comedy to horror. Adding them to your queue will make your journey through the top anime of all time even richer.

How To Start Watching These “Top Anime of All Time”

Looking at a big list of anime can feel overwhelming. Here are some simple tips to help you start.

• Begin with what interests you most.
  If you like action and adventure, start with Naruto, One Piece or Demon Slayer.
  If you enjoy emotional stories, try Your Lie in April or Clannad: After Story.
  If you prefer shorter experiences, pick movies like Spirited Away or Your Name.
• Use legal streaming platforms.
  Many of the top anime of all time are available on major services. Watching legally supports the creators and helps the industry grow.
• Decide between sub and dub.
  Some people like to watch with subtitles. Others prefer dubbed versions in their own language. Many of the best anime series listed here have good dubs, so choose the style that feels comfortable for you.
• Make a personal watchlist.
  From this blog, pick five titles that excite you the most. Finish those first before adding more. This prevents you from getting stuck trying to watch too many shows at once.
• Take your time.
  You do not need to rush through everything. Enjoy each series, think about its themes and talk about it with friends or online communities. Anime is more fun when shared.

Final Thoughts: Anime Is Always Evolving

Creating a list of the top anime of all time is not about declaring a final winner. It is about celebrating the many ways anime can move, entertain and inspire us. From long running shonen like Dragon Ball Z and One Piece, to deep psychological series like Death Note and Neon Genesis Evangelion, to emotional gems like Fruits Basket and Your Lie in April, each title offers something unique.

New masterpieces will continue to appear as studios try new ideas and technology improves. In a few years, you may find fresh favorites that deserve to sit alongside these classics. That is one of the best things about being an anime fan. There is always another great story waiting around the corner.

Now it is your turn. Which titles would you place in your personal list of top anime of all time? Would your top 5 be full of shonen battles, emotional romance, dark thrillers or a mix of everything? Share your picks with other fans and keep the conversation going.

If you enjoyed this guide, you can also explore more focused lists, such as the best romance anime, the best short anime or the best anime movies to watch on a weekend. The journey does not end here. It is only just beginning.