Looking for the best anime shows right now? This 2025 update ranks the top 25 based on story, character depth, cultural impact, animation quality, and rewatch value. For each pick, you’ll see a quick synopsis, why it made the list, and legal places to stream it. Use the quick picks and jump links to find your next watch fast.
Table of Contents
Click on a section to jump directly to your favorite part of this list of the best anime shows ever made.
Iconic Classics That Shaped Modern Anime
Some of the best anime shows ever made stand out because they did much more than entertain: they changed the way anime was seen around the world. Here, I’m spotlighting a handful of series that shaped anime history and built the foundation for the best anime series lists everywhere. These shows didn’t just break records; they set the rules for storytelling, style, and the global excitement that surrounds anime today.
1. Naruto
🔍 Search Volume: 550,000/mo.
📺 Where to Watch: Netflix (Naruto), Hulu, Crunchyroll (Shippuden)
📝 Synopsis:
Naruto tells the story of Naruto Uzumaki—a spiky-haired, orange-clad underdog who wants nothing more than to be respected. Growing up an outcast in his ninja village, he never lets go of his dream to become Hokage (the village leader). But this series is not just about flashy jutsu and high-energy battles. Naruto dives into themes of perseverance, loneliness, friendship, and choosing your own path, helping define what a “ninja anime” could be for a new generation.
Starting as a humble comic, Naruto exploded in popularity and brought ninja lore to mainstream pop culture. The show’s epic coming-of-age journey, alongside its huge supporting cast, inspired countless anime fans and cosplayers worldwide. When people think about the best anime shows of all time, Naruto always shows up. It also marked a shift for shonen anime, mixing humor, drama, and heart in a way that stuck with teens and adults alike. If you only know anime for its wild fights and headbands, thank Naruto.
➡️ Fun Fact:
Naruto has been officially translated into over 30 languages and broadcast in more than 80 countries! That worldwide reach is part of what made the story resonate even for viewers who never watched anime before. See more classic picks on this Men’s Health list.
2. Dragon Ball Z
🔍 Search Volume: 176,000/mo.
📺 Where to Watch: Hulu (Kai), Crunchyroll, JustWatch
📝 Synopsis:
Ask anyone for the best anime series of all time, and Dragon Ball Z is almost always at the top. The key story arc follows Goku and his friends as they protect Earth from alien invaders, androids, and powerful foes. Every saga ups the stakes, with legendary battles that made “power up” a household phrase. Characters like Vegeta, Piccolo, Gohan, and Frieza became icons in their own right.
Dragon Ball Z mixed non-stop action with humor and lessons about courage, friendship, and growing up. Its visual style and pacing made it accessible to kids and adults alike. It set the template for countless action anime and is often the “gateway” series for new fans. The series also popularized the idea of “training arcs”—moments when main characters get stronger after setbacks, giving every episode that sense of anticipation and payoff.
➡️ Fun Fact:
Dragon Ball Z’s massive dubbing effort led to dozens of different versions around the world. In some countries, the soundtrack, jokes, and even dialogue were completely re-imagined, making each dub unique!
The entire Dragon Ball series is actually in my personal top 3 favorite Anime series of all time. I’m trying to think back as kid what my first Anime experience was. My memory is not the best but Dragon Ball is the one that comes to mind.
3. Sailor Moon
🔍 Search Volume: 209,000/mo.
📝 Synopsis:
No list of the best anime shows is complete without Sailor Moon. Usagi Tsukino (aka Sailor Moon) is a clumsy, kind-hearted girl who discovers her destiny as a magical warrior. Alongside her friends, the Sailor Guardians, she battles evil to protect Earth. Sailor Moon became the face of the magical girl genre, combining school life, romance, comedy, and battles with emotional storytelling that appealed to all ages.
What made Sailor Moon stand out was its cast of diverse heroines—confident, quirky, and full of heart. It showed that girls could be heroes and tackle tough problems without sacrificing their individuality. The iconic transformation scenes and catchy theme song are instantly recognizable, and the series inspired legions of young viewers to see themselves as strong and capable.
➡️ Fun Fact:
Sailor Moon didn’t just create a magical girl boom—it paved the way for more girl-focused anime with complex, relatable characters. This show helped popularize anime among young girls and is credited with broadening the fandom into new demographics. Discover how Sailor Moon shaped anime TV on IndieWire’s all-time list.
4. Cowboy Bebop
🔍 Search Volume: 280,000/mo.
📺 Where to Watch: Crunchyroll, JustWatch
📝 Synopsis:
Cowboy Bebop is a perfect mix of jazzy style, slick animation, and deep storytelling. It follows bounty hunters (or “cowboys”) Jet, Spike, Faye, and Ed as they chase criminals through space with humor, melancholy, and cool action scenes. The show’s blend of genres — sci-fi, western, noir — paired with its unforgettable jazz soundtrack, helped it land on the “best anime series” charts even decades after its release.
What truly makes Cowboy Bebop timeless is its approach to storytelling. Each episode tells a complete story but also explores the dreams, regrets, and humanity of its main cast. The show’s mood swings from lighthearted to deeply emotional and made it a gateway for many fans to see anime as a serious type of art, not just entertainment.
➡️ Fun Fact:
The show’s opening theme, “Tank!” by Yoko Kanno and the Seatbelts, is so popular that it’s performed by jazz bands worldwide and has reached cult status. If there’s one anime opening you’ll never skip, it’s this one!
5. Neon Genesis Evangelion
🔍 Search Volume: 147,000/mo.
📺 Where to Watch: Netflix, JustWatch
📝 Synopsis:
Neon Genesis Evangelion follows Shinji Ikari, a teenage boy who is forced to pilot a giant mecha to fight off mysterious monsters called Angels. What looks like a standard sci-fi setup quickly flips into a psychological story about fear, identity, and the struggle with depression. Evangelion shattered expectations about what “mecha anime” could be, using smart symbolism and bold direction that still sparks debates today.
This series struck a chord with older teens and adults by asking tough questions and holding up a mirror to real-world anxieties. Its mix of stunning action scenes and character-driven drama set a new standard for anime. Evangelion’s legacy goes far beyond entertainment—it spawned endless think-pieces, spin-offs, and inspired a generation of creators.
➡️ Fun Fact:
The original broadcast ending in 1996 was so abstract and polarizing that fans everywhere demanded more answers, leading to a feature film that reinterpreted the finale. The conversations around its ending still fill forums today. Get a deeper look at why the original Evangelion ending is still discussed.
Top Modern Anime Shows with Global Impact
The last decade has been wild for anime fans. There’s been an explosion of new series that rocketed from local fame to full-on global blockbusters. These modern best anime shows blend jaw-dropping animation, bold storytelling, and memorable heroes that have captured millions of fans worldwide. As someone following this wave, it’s thrilling to see how these series are shaping what people love most in the best anime series today.
6. Attack on Titan
🔍 Search Volume: 518,000/mo.
📺 Where to Watch: Crunchyroll, Hulu
📝 Synopsis:
Attack on Titan is the best anime show to start with if you want action and drama that never let up. In a world overrun by towering man-eating Titans, humanity barely survives behind massive walls. Protagonist Eren Yeager’s fight for freedom sets off a gripping story about fear, loyalty, and power. The pacing is brutal in the best way, punching you with twists and emotional gut-punches at every corner.
This series gathered a huge global fan-base, uniting viewers around its ruthless story and intensity. People celebrate its battles and the constant sense of danger that makes every episode unforgettable. Attack on Titan stands at the front of the new wave, regularly featured at the top of best anime shows lists, including IMDb’s top ranked anime.
➡️ Fun Fact:
The soundtrack, composed by Hiroyuki Sawano, is so iconic that entire stadiums in Japan have held concerts dedicated just to Attack on Titan music. The intense choral tracks add real weight to every battle scene.
7. My Hero Academia
🔍 Search Volume: 603,000/mo.
📺 Where to Watch: Crunchyroll, Hulu
📝 Synopsis:
My Hero Academia brings superheroes into a school setting, combining classic shonen training arcs with a fun, relatable twist. Izuku Midoriya dreams of saving people like his idol, All Might, in a world where most people have unique powers called “Quirks.” The show dives into what it means to be a hero, mixing student rivalries, epic tournaments, and heartfelt growth.
What really sets My Hero Academia apart among the best anime series is its lively characters and sense of hope. It’s filled with underdogs, creative superpowers, and real consequences for choices, keeping fans hooked as the stakes get bigger with each season.
➡️ Fun Fact:
Creator Kohei Horikoshi has shared that his main inspiration was Western superhero comics, especially Marvel’s Spider-Man, which shaped Deku’s underdog journey.
8. Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba
🔍 Search Volume: 482,000+/mo.
📺 Where to Watch: Netflix, Crunchyroll
📝 Synopsis:
Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba took everyone by surprise with its stunning animation and emotional story. It follows Tanjiro Kamado’s quest to save his sister and defeat powerful demons. Every episode is a visual feast, thanks to Ufotable’s animation—a true highlight that’s raised the bar for TV anime.
Fans and newcomers both praise Demon Slayer as one of the best anime shows for its atmosphere, sword-fighting, family themes, and impactful music. The series’ movie, Mugen Train, even shattered records at the Japanese box office and earned a spot as the highest-grossing Japanese film ever, marking its spot among the legendary best anime series. See how it ranks on BuzzFeed’s best anime shows list.
➡️ Fun Fact:
The Demon Slayer movie, Mugen Train, topped iconic films like Spirited Away, breaking all Japanese box office records and bringing in over $500 million worldwide.
I recently got into Demon Slayer. It’s my absolute favorite at this moment.
9. Jujutsu Kaisen
🔍 Search Volume: 568,000/mo.
📺 Where to Watch: Crunchyroll
📝 Synopsis:
Jujutsu Kaisen hooked me instantly with its sharp style, cool fighting moves, and a cast of quirky, lovable heroes. Yuji Itadori, a high school student, stumbles into a hidden world of curses and sorcery. Each character is unique, from the stoic Megumi Fushiguro to the bold Nobara Kugisaki. The battles burst with energy and creativity, making this series one of the hottest new names among the best anime shows.
The manga has accelerated in sales, with millions of copies flying off shelves. Jujutsu Kaisen’s blend of horror imagery, dark humor, and heartfelt moments makes it easy to see why it’s topping the charts. Want to know where it stands in manga sales history? Track the top sellers in this complete list of best-selling manga.
➡️ Fun Fact:
Jujutsu Kaisen’s manga sales exploded after the anime premiered, with over 80 million copies in circulation as of early 2023.
10. One Punch Man
🔍 Search Volume: 308,000/mo.
📺 Where to Watch: Netflix, Hulu, Crunchyroll
📝 Synopsis:
One Punch Man breaks the mold by asking, “What if the strongest hero is totally bored?” Saitama can defeat any villain with a single punch, which makes every fight both hilarious and a bit sad. This best anime series takes the standard superhero setup, flips it on its head, and serves up some of the crispest animation and satire in recent years.
What makes One Punch Man special for fans is its mix of self-aware comedy, big action, and fresh takes on superpowers. The show pokes fun at hero tropes while still delivering jaw-dropping fight scenes, proving you can be both goofy and epic at the same time.
➡️ Fun Fact:
One Punch Man actually started as a webcomic by the creator known as ONE. Its scrappy, humble origin only adds to the show’s charm and lasting appeal.
These modern hits have redefined what people search for in the best anime shows, making them essential viewing for fans old and new.
Best Anime Shows for Drama, Depth & Emotion
The best anime shows do more than excite with action—they move people with their stories, characters, and emotion. Some anime hit so hard, they linger in your mind for years. These next series rise to the top of the best anime series lists not for spectacle alone, but for their heart and unforgettable drama. If you want stories that make you think, cry, or reflect, these are the must-watches.
11. Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood
🔍 Search Volume: 58,700/mo.
📺 Where to Watch: Netflix, Crunchyroll
📝 Synopsis:
“Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood” remains a true giant among the best anime shows. Its tale follows brothers Edward and Alphonse Elric as they fight for redemption after a failed forbidden alchemy ritual robs them of more than they could ever imagine. With themes like sacrifice, the price of power, and the cost of war, Brotherhood draws you into a world where hope is always tangled with loss. The way the characters grow, often learning the hard way, keeps every twist and battle grounded in real emotion.
The anime is praised for sticking closely to the manga’s plot, giving fans the complete story with zero filler. Brotherhood ties every thread and never shies away from deep ethical questions. Its mix of adventure, philosophy, and heartbreak cements its place as one of the best anime series you’ll ever watch. Want a deeper dive on its epic story? Check out this Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood review.
➡️ Fun Fact:
Brotherhood was created after fans asked for an adaptation that followed the manga all the way to its powerful ending, unlike the 2003 original.
12. Your Lie in April
🔍 Search Volume: 118,000/mo.
📺 Where to Watch: Netflix, Crunchyroll
📝 Synopsis:
“Your Lie in April” grabs your heart from the first piano key. This anime dives into the lives of young musicians Kousei and Kaori. It’s a story about trauma, healing, and the courage to perform even when pain tries to silence you. The series blends romance with the power of music—every note echoes with longing and hope.
The visuals mimic watercolor art, while the soundtrack uses real classical pieces performed by renowned artists. That mix of music and emotion sets a stage where every episode feels like a private concert and a personal letter. For fans of romance and drama, few best anime shows capture raw feeling as honestly as Your Lie in April.
➡️ Fun Fact:
Each performance in the show uses recordings by top musicians, and the anime sparked a fresh wave of interest in classical music among young viewers.
13. Death Note
🔍 Search Volume: 180,000/mo.
📺 Where to Watch: Netflix
📝 Synopsis:
Few series hook viewers as quickly as “Death Note,” a masterclass in suspense and psychology. The story centers on Light Yagami, a genius student armed with a deadly notebook, and the mysterious detective known as L. Their mental chess match creates non-stop tension, making Death Note a prime example of the best anime series for anyone craving thrill and intelligence.
What sets Death Note apart is how it blurs the lines between hero and villain. The cat-and-mouse game forces you to rethink your definition of justice and evil. Controversial and gripping, it has sparked debate well beyond anime circles. Learn more about its sometimes shocking worldwide impact in this Death Note facts feature.
➡️ Fun Fact:
The series was banned in parts of China because students started buying “Death Notebooks” and pretending to write the names of classmates, causing enough concern for real-world school bans.
14. Steins;Gate
🔍 Search Volume: 89,600/mo.
📺 Where to Watch: Crunchyroll, Hulu
📝 Synopsis:
Complex, smart, and full of surprises, “Steins;Gate” takes sci-fi drama to a new dimension. The plot follows Rintarou Okabe and his oddball friends as they discover the secrets to sending messages through time, creating ripples with life-changing consequences. The twists keep coming, but it never loses focus on its characters’ bonds and regrets.
What makes Steins;Gate special is its loyal fanbase, many of whom stay engaged long after the show’s end, discussing theories and exploring related media. Its mix of real-world science and emotional storytelling puts it among the best anime shows for anyone who loves secrets and science fiction. The story actually starts as a game, which adds extra layers for fans looking to dig deeper—read more about Steins;Gate’s unique start as a visual novel on Wikipedia.
➡️ Fun Fact:
Steins;Gate was originally released as a visual novel game before becoming an anime. Unlike most adaptations, the anime closely follows its “true ending” route, making it a hit with both players and new viewers.
15. Anohana: The Flower We Saw That Day
🔍 Search Volume: 66,100/mo.
📺 Where to Watch: Crunchyroll
📝 Synopsis:
Few best anime series pack a punch like “Anohana: The Flower We Saw That Day.” It tells the story of friends separated by tragedy, then slowly brought back together as they try to fulfill a wish from the past. Even for seasoned anime fans, Anohana leaves a lasting mark with its honest look at guilt, loss, and forgiveness. Every episode drives home the pain of growing up and moving on, all wrapped in realistic dialogue.
The town featured in Anohana inspired a real festival, where fans gather to remember the characters’ story just like the cast does in the series. Learn more about how flowers tie into the story and its festival at this Anohana event post.
➡️ Fun Fact:
The “Flower Festival” in Chichibu, where Anohana takes place, gained worldwide attention after the anime aired. Locals and fans gather every year to honor the show and the emotional journey it sparked.
These shows remind us why anime isn’t just for kids or action junkies. They take on heavy subjects, offer no easy answers, and reward viewers who love stories with real heart.
Underrated Anime Series Worth Watching
The best anime shows aren’t always the ones you see splashed across every streaming banner. Some series quietly build loyal followings by mixing genres, challenging expectations, or just delivering something you can’t get anywhere else. Here are five anime I think deserve even more recognition. These “genre-benders” cross lines between comedy, drama, action, and the genuinely unexpected, proving that anime has endless ways to keep you on your toes.
16. Mob Psycho 100
🔍 Search Volume: 181,000/mo.
📺 Where to Watch: Crunchyroll
📝 Synopsis:
Mob Psycho 100 stands out among the best anime shows for its wild blend of laugh-out-loud comedy, stunning psychic battles, and plenty of real heart. The story follows Mob, an awkward middle schooler with psychic powers so strong, even he can’t control them. Unlike typical “overpowered hero” stories, Mob cares more about personal growth and kindness than showing off his strength. What really sets this series apart is its creative animation—expressive lines, wild color palettes, and physical gags that keep things fresh every episode.
Yet, for all the humor and action, Mob Psycho 100 digs deep into loneliness, friendship, and what it means to be honest with yourself. Studio BONES swings for the fences with bold visuals both funny and thrilling. If you love shows that can make you laugh, drop your jaw, and maybe even get a little choked up in the same episode, Mob Psycho 100 deserves a spot on your watchlist.
➡️ Fun Fact:
Mob Psycho 100 is written by the same creator as One Punch Man, known simply as ONE. You can learn more about this unique creator’s work and the differences between his shows in this article from Screen Rant.
17. Haikyuu!!
🔍 Search Volume: 243,000/mo.
📺 Where to Watch: Crunchyroll
📝 Synopsis:
Haikyuu!! takes the best anime series format and spikes it straight into the sports genre, bringing an exhilarating charge to every episode. Centered on the underdog Karasuno High School volleyball team, the show pulls you onto the court right alongside shy but determined Hinata and his quick-tempered teammate Kageyama. You don’t need to know a thing about volleyball to get swept up—every serve, block, and rally is a rush of adrenaline that puts you right in the game.
What really lifts Haikyuu!! is its focus on teamwork and growth. Characters learn to trust, communicate, and push each other past their limits, making every match feel like a fight for much more than just a win. The show balances on-court action with plenty of laughs and team banter, hitting the sweet spot between intense and heartwarming.
➡️ Fun Fact:
Real-life volleyball players have credited Haikyuu!! for sparking new interest in the sport. It’s common to hear young athletes, especially in Japan, say they joined school teams after watching the show. See what makes Haikyuu!! inspiring for new fans, according to anime communities.
18. March Comes In Like a Lion
🔍 Search Volume: 28,700/mo.
📺 Where to Watch: Crunchyroll
📝 Synopsis:
March Comes In Like a Lion tells the story of Rei Kiriyama, a young professional shogi (Japanese chess) player, as he deals with loneliness, pressure, and old wounds. The show is gentle, honest, and sometimes heavy, painting a portrait of a teenager weighed down by tragedy but slowly finding reasons to hope again. Rather than following a wild plot, the charm here comes from everyday scenes—quiet meals, cozy chats, and the slow rebuilding of trust.
This series doesn’t rush. Each episode lets grief, kindness, and human connection breathe naturally, making it quietly powerful. Scenes are filled with soft watercolor visuals and a gentle soundtrack, making the tough moments hit even harder. For anyone who’s ever felt stuck in a dark place, March Comes In Like a Lion offers comfort while showing how people can heal a little at a time.
➡️ Fun Fact:
The anime inspired fresh interest in the shogi community, with real-life events and tours to the areas depicted in the series. The neighborhoods featured in the show exist in Tokyo and have become low-key pilgrimage spots for fans. For a look at how the real world meets the anime’s backdrop, check out Crunchyroll’s guide to the real world locations of March Comes In Like a Lion.
19. Parasyte: The Maxim
🔍 Search Volume: 5,600/mo.
📺 Where to Watch: Netflix, Hulu
📝 Synopsis:
Parasyte: The Maxim grabs your attention with its gross-out alien body horror, but it’s the questions about humanity and identity that keep you watching. High schooler Shinichi wakes up one night to find his right hand overtaken by a bizarre, talking parasite intent on survival at all costs. What follows is a tense, unpredictable fight for control as both Shinichi and Migi (the parasite) find themselves hunted by even more deadly invaders.
For fans of horror or suspense, Parasyte delivers plenty of shocking scenes and smart twists. But beneath the surface is a show about empathy—where the monsters might not be so different, and the humans aren’t always as good as they seem. It asks you to look inside yourself and wonder, what does it actually mean to be human?
➡️ Fun Fact:
Parasyte started as a manga by Hitoshi Iwaaki back in the late 1980s and became a cult classic before getting its anime adaptation many years later. You can read more about its origins and legacy on Wikipedia.
20. Made in Abyss
🔍 Search Volume: 124,000/mo.
📺 Where to Watch: HIDIVE, Amazon Prime (rent)
📝 Synopsis:
Made in Abyss may look cute, but don’t let its soft, round character designs fool you. This is one of the best anime shows for fans who want their stories both beautiful and brutal. The series follows young Riko and her robot friend Reg as they descend into the mysterious Abyss, a giant chasm filled with lost relics, monsters, and deadly secrets. The deeper they go, the greater the danger and the darker the truths they uncover.
The real magic of Made in Abyss is how it balances these adorable visuals with some of the harshest, most emotional moments I’ve seen in anime. The contrast heightens every shock and heartbreak—one minute you’re admiring lush, watercolor scenery, the next you’re gasping as the characters face unimaginable challenges.
➡️ Fun Fact:
The show’s animation was handled by Kinema Citrus, who used a mix of digital painting and hand-drawn techniques to capture the Abyss’s otherworldly feel. This careful, layered approach is part of what gives the show its unique, haunting atmosphere.
These titles prove that the best anime series aren’t just the loudest or flashiest—they’re the ones willing to take risks, mix genres, and surprise you when you least expect it.
Fan-Favorite Anime That Keep Trending
Some of the best anime shows grab the spotlight year after year, sticking with viewers from childhood into adulthood. These titles bring together fans of every age and background through unforgettable characters, massive adventures, and iconic moments. I’ve included a blend of new-school hits and true legends for anyone building their essential anime watchlist. Let’s take a look at five series that continue to steal the show, constantly ranking among the most beloved and most searched.
21. Pokémon
🔍 Search Volume: 18,100K/mo.
📺 Where to Watch: Netflix, Pokémon TV app
📝 Synopsis:
Pokémon is a global sensation and sits high in any discussion of the best anime shows. For decades, kids and adults alike have followed Ash Ketchum and his friends as they travel from town to town, catching, training, and battling incredible creatures. The anime’s structure is classic adventure, moving from one challenge to the next with new friends and rivals appearing along the way.
The show’s universal appeal comes from its blend of competition and teamwork, magic and strategy, all set in a world where nearly everyone dreams big. The adventure formula keeps things exciting, while the colorful Pokémon themselves create lasting connections with viewers. I still remember waking up early just to see if Ash would finally win that elusive league!
➡️ Fun Fact:
Pikachu is more than a star of the show. This little yellow mascot became a cultural icon, recognized even by people who have never watched a single episode. Pikachu was chosen for its cute design and easy name, but its status grew so large that it now represents the entire franchise globally.
22. One Piece
🔍 Search Volume: 375,000/mo.
📺 Where to Watch: Netflix, Crunchyroll
📝 Synopsis:
One Piece is unstoppable when it comes to lasting appeal, setting the standard for epic pirate adventures. Luffy, the straw hat-wearing captain, and his ever-growing crew have sailed through hundreds of islands and thrilling story arcs—each new saga brimming with heart, humor, and friendship. One Piece merges wild imagination with emotional storytelling, never shying away from stories about dreams, freedom, or sacrifice.
This best anime series has built a gigantic world, packed with vibrant towns, legendary pirates, and hidden treasures. The friendships and rivalries keep energy high, while the ongoing sense of discovery hooks me (and millions more) for every new episode.
➡️ Fun Fact:
One Piece not only dominates episode counts (clocking in at over 1,000 episodes so far), but also holds records for its manga sales. It’s recognized by Guinness World Records for being the comic series with the most copies published by a single author. For more about these records, see the Guinness World Records note on One Piece.
23. Hunter x Hunter
🔍 Search Volume: 287,000/mo.
📺 Where to Watch: Netflix, Crunchyroll, Hulu
📝 Synopsis:
Hunter x Hunter is one of the best anime shows if you want smart battles and an unforgettable cast. The series follows Gon Freecss and his friends as they tackle challenges much bigger than just physical combat. With each arc, Hunter x Hunter dives deep into chess-like strategy, moral questions, and the cost of power. From heartfelt friendships to chilling villains, the characters always stand out, shifting from lighthearted to deeply serious in a blink.
The show mixes traditional adventure with elements of mystery and suspense, making every story arc feel fresh. I love how battles rely on creativity and logic, often forcing characters to outthink their opponents instead of just overpowering them.
➡️ Fun Fact:
The mind behind Hunter x Hunter is Yoshihiro Togashi, who also created the shonen classic Yu Yu Hakusho. Both of these series are best-selling manga and have shaped shonen anime for generations. For more on Togashi’s work, check his biography and major series.
24. Tokyo Ghoul
🔍 Search Volume: 231,000/mo.
📺 Where to Watch: Hulu, Crunchyroll
📝 Synopsis:
Tokyo Ghoul dives into a nightmarish world where humans and flesh-eating “ghouls” struggle to coexist. This best anime series is known for its dark, urban fantasy setting and a relentless sense of tension. Main character Kaneki’s transformation after a near-fatal encounter sets off a horror tale about identity, fear, and both sides of the “monster” line. The show doesn’t shy away from gore or emotional pain, keeping the stakes high and the atmosphere heavy.
Fans praise Tokyo Ghoul for its blend of raw emotion, horror visuals, and philosophical themes about who we become under pressure. Even if you’re not big on horror, its layered storytelling and unique style make it impossible to look away.
➡️ Fun Fact:
Tokyo Ghoul’s intense violence and mature themes led to bans or heavy censorship in several countries, including China and Russia. Read how entire regions blocked the series in this rundown of Tokyo Ghoul’s censorship around the world.
25. Spy x Family
🔍 Search Volume: 39,000/mo. (🔺live volume 173K+)
📺 Where to Watch: Crunchyroll, Hulu
📝 Synopsis:
Spy x Family is a fresh entry in the world of best anime shows, mixing comedy, action, and undercover shenanigans. The story centers on Loid Forger, a master spy who must “build” a fake family for a dangerous mission. Unbeknownst to him, his adopted daughter Anya is a telepath, and his pretend wife Yor is a skilled assassin. The series pokes fun at secret identities and family drama, while delivering plenty of wild, heartwarming moments.
It’s hard not to fall for the charm of this series. Anya’s expressions, Yor’s strength, and Loid’s total confusion make for some of the most rewatchable scenes online. The humor is quick and sharp, while the action carries real stakes, balancing laughs and tension in every episode.
➡️ Fun Fact:
Certain scenes in Spy x Family, especially moments featuring Anya, have gone viral and flooded meme pages and TikTok feeds—like the “heh” face and the peanut obsession. If you want to catch some of these viral highlights, check out a collection of the cutest Spy x Family moments.
These fan favorites are proof that the best anime series are not about just age or genre—they’re about heart, adventure, and leaving a mark that lasts for a lifetime.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About the Best Anime Shows in 2025
What is the most popular anime of all time?
Dragon Ball Z, One Piece, and Naruto are consistently ranked among the most popular anime worldwide. One Piece holds the record for the best-selling manga, while Dragon Ball Z helped popularize anime in the West.
What anime should I watch first as a beginner?
Start with widely loved and easy-to-follow series like My Hero Academia, Demon Slayer, or Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood. These shows are action-packed but also emotionally rich, making them great for first-time viewers.
What anime has the best story and character development?
Steins;Gate, March Comes In Like a Lion, and Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood are praised for deep storytelling and complex character growth. They explore emotion, loss, and philosophical themes in unforgettable ways.
Where to watch the best anime shows?
Top streaming platforms for anime in 2025 include:
- Crunchyroll – broadest anime library and simulcasts
- Netflix – best curated collection of mainstream hits
- Hulu – great mix of subbed and dubbed classics
- Funimation – strong dub library and shonen favorites
- Amazon Prime Video – niche gems and new licenses
Are these anime available in English dub?
Yes, most of the anime listed here are available in English dub, especially on platforms like Funimation, Crunchyroll, and Netflix. Series like One Punch Man, Death Note, and Attack on Titan have highly rated English voice acting.
Which anime shows are suitable for older teens or adults?
Try Death Note, Tokyo Ghoul, Neon Genesis Evangelion, and Made in Abyss. These explore darker themes and mature topics, best suited for ages 16 and up.
What are the best anime shows in your opinion?
These best anime shows have shaped how I see storytelling, friendship, imagination, and challenge. They go far beyond entertainment, pulling out laughter or tears, and sometimes both in the same moment. Each series opens a new door, with characters and worlds that stay with you long after the final episode.
Whether you grew up on classics or just found your first favorite, I hope you found a few best anime series here worth exploring. Everyone’s top list is different, and that’s the real beauty of anime—there’s always something personal in the stories that connect us. Share your personal favorites or hidden gems in the comment section below, and join me and others in celebrating all the best anime shows that continue to inspire, surprise, and bring fans together. Thanks for joining me on this trip through the best anime series ever made.
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