The anime genre has a diehard following worldwide. Anime is known for its distinct visual style, engaging and relatable characters, and fearless storytelling. The market for it has grown exponentially, and with the rise of streaming services, it’s become more accessible than ever. Loyal fans, both young and old, have nearly endless possibilities to choose from. Fortunately, there’s always new anime to watch in an industry that is always thriving.
We all have our personal favorite series, ones that we champion as underrated, yet it’s the most popular ones that bring fans together the most at conventions or online. These notable anime series have received both fantastic ratings and rave reviews over the years. Many, for better or worse, have garnered their own live-action reboots. So, whether one is a long-time fanatic or a newbie just wanting to get their feet wet, here are some of the most popular anime series ever made.
‘Astro Boy’ (1963–1966, 1980–81, 2003–04)
Created by the godfather of manga, Osamu Tezuka, Astro Boy exists as one of the earliest anime imports and a cultural touchstone of anime. The series centers around the titular hero, created by scientist Dr. Tenma after the death of his son. Built with a heart, Astro Boy struggles in a world that does not accept robots, but he remains a determined protector of those he holds dear.
Often credited as the foundation of modern anime, Astro Boy has appeared in a few different iterations, but his image has penetrated pop culture in an almost unparalleled way. The series’ rich history is still paid homage to and further explored in titles such as Puluto, which received an anime adaptation in 2023. The series’ uplifting themes of compassion and morality remain timeless, and each iteration boasts a stunning anime style for its respective era.
‘Yu Yu Hakusho’ (1992–1995)
One of the defining shōnen series of the 90s, Yu Yu Hakusho may be slightly overlooked in the modern landscape dominated by the genre, but its popularity endures. The series centers on the resurrected ‘spirit detective’ Yusuke Urameshi, who solves supernatural cases while facing off against a myriad of demons with the help of his friends.
Blending action, comedy, and emotional character arcs, Yu Yu Hakusho became the introductory series to many anime fans growing up in the 90s. The tournament arc sagas, inventive villains, and sharp dialogue delivered by an eccentric yet lovable cast have certainly helped cement its popularity.
‘Fist of the North Star’ (1984–1988)
Fist of the North Star has certainly found its fans here in the West, but its enduring popularity lies largely with the Japanese audience that has made it iconic. Set in a post-apocalyptic wasteland, the movie follows the ultimate beefcake killing machine, Kenshiro, who wanders the desolate wasteland, facing off against other martial artists using his unique skills and pressure-point strikes. A man who picks his words carefully, Kenshiro chooses to fight for honor and justice.
Fist of the Northstar fit in perfectly with other action titles of the 80s and 90s, with its focus on big battles and sharp one-liners. The series would also help open the floodgates for many other series with a more mature, violent approach to storytelling whose influence can be seen today. A touchstone of anime, and one with an enduring fan base.
‘Chainsaw Man’ (2022–Present)
Even before the anime series was released, there was a lot of buzz about Chainsaw Man as potentially the next big thing, given the insanely popular manga by Tatsuki Fujimoto. Fans were right: the series seemed to hit the perfect intersection of anime cool and Western love of stylized chaos and superheroes, unlike many other series before it.
Dark humor, brutal action sequences, and a touch of emotionally resonant storytelling have turned the series into one of the most beloved modern series. Fans have certainly embraced Denji and Pochita (together, they are Chainsaw Man!) as modern-day heroes who battle all sorts of monsters with unrelenting energy and plenty of blood to be spilled.
‘Spy x Family’ (2022–Present)
You know the memes, you have seen them, but Spy x Family is certainly more than just that. The series would be an entry into a now more common genre of spies trying to live normal lives. Here, spy Twilight would adopt a family, marry assassin Yor, and adopt a telepathic girl, all unaware of each other’s secret lives.
Who doesn’t like a good spy thriller where the fate of the world is at stake? Spy x Family finds that perfect intersection of wholesome comedy and espionage thrills. Still, its undeniable charm comes from all those memes, which play off its lovable characters. Can’t forget, the series also introduced “Borf” into the anime vocabulary via the adorable good-boy Bond, which is likely to endure long after the series ends.
‘DanDaDan’ (2024–Present)
DanDaDan has quickly cemented its status as one of the most popular anime of all time. It follows the thrilling adventures of Momo Ayase, a high school girl who staunchly believes in ghosts but dismisses the existence of aliens. On the other hand, her classmate, Ken “Okuran” Takakura, has the exact opposite belief. After a heated debate, the duo team up and have supernatural encounters and bizarre battles.
A visually stunning and narratively ambitious anime series, Dan Da Dan stands out for its brilliant fusion of supernatural themes and comedic elements. It features a parade of jaw-dropping action sequences that showcase the medium’s potential. But beneath the surface-level thrills, it also tells the story of Momo and Okarun’s evolving friendship and growing attraction, which adds to the overall appeal.
‘Mushi-Shi’ (2005–2014)
Based on the manga of the same name written and illustrated by Yuki Urushibara, Mushi-Shi is an enchanting anime set in a world where the fascinating “Mushi” coexist alongside the natural order. We follow Ginko, a uniquely gifted “Mushi Master” who dedicates himself to unraveling the secret of these elusive entities, and so he roams the countryside encountering and investigating mysterious creatures that are neither good nor evil.
Mushi-Shi is a true marvel of the anime medium because it crafts a story that is both stunning and contemplative. It’s a sharp contrast to the more action-oriented series, offering a serene, meditative viewing experience through its richly imagined worlds, hauntingly beautiful soundtrack, and immersive atmosphere. Ginko is an empathetic protagonist whose wisdom makes the anime a masterpiece.
‘Vinland Saga’ (2019–2023)
Vinland Saga is a historical action anime set during the Viking era. It follows the brutal and unforgiving journey of a young man named Thorfinn, who witnessed the murder of his father by the mercenary leader Askeladd, and gets caught up in a web of vengeance and bloodshed. Pledging to avenge his father’s death by any means necessary, he travels from the battlefields of England to the harsh landscapes of the North.
The anime begins with a promise to take the protagonist to a true warrior’s paradise, Vinland, and wraps a genuinely visceral story around it. Visually stunning and pulse-pounding, the series also features profound character development. The animation, by WIT Studio, captures the harshness of the Viking world and injects a weighty emotional resonance that elevates the plot. Overall, Vinland Saga offers an immersive experience, and that’s what makes it so popular.
‘Berserk’ (1997–1998)
Set in a world shrouded in darkness, Berserk follows the harrowing story of a lone mercenary named Guts, haunted by his tragic past day and night. After a chance encounter, he joins the Band of the Hawk, led by the ambitious Griffith, and finds camaraderie and purpose. However, when Griffith’s ambitions get out of hand, Guts faces cruelty and betrayal and is forced to confront the very demons that pull him down.
Berserk is a powerful exploration of human suffering and the dark consequences of unchecked ambition. Known for its grim storytelling, complex characters, and gory action, it has earned a reputation for being one of the most intense and emotionally jarring anime series of all time. The animation effectively conveys the core message of the source material. Yet, in all its despair, Berserk manages to infuse its narrative with epic moments and leave a lasting impression on fans.
‘Neon Genesis Evangelion’ (1995–1996)
Hailed as the most superior in the mecha anime subgenre, Neon Genesis Evangelion takes place in the wake of a cataclysmic event that left the world irrevocably transformed into a place where monstrous celestial beings called Angels have taken over Tokyo. We follow Shinji Ikari, a teenage boy tasked with piloting a colossal biomechanical robot called an “Evangelion” in a desperate bid to defend humanity.
Celebrated for its groundbreaking storytelling and philosophical depth, Neon Genesis Evangelion is among the few anime series that hold a 100% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes. Critics describe it as “a cultural touchstone for Japan” that “doubles as an enthralling apex for the mecha anime genre and as a harrowing exploration of depression.” Gainax’s animation and the detailed mecha designs make the anime an inspirational and timeless work of art.
This story originally appeared on Movieweb
