I’m excited to share my personal picks for the best anime of all time! As an avid anime fan, I’ve spent countless hours immersing myself in different stories, characters, and worlds. Over the years, I’ve come across some truly incredible shows that have left a lasting impression on me.
Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to the genre, this list has something for everyone. From action-packed adventures to heartfelt dramas, each of these anime offers something unique and special. So, without further ado, let’s dive into the world of anime and explore the best of the best. Let’s go!
20. Your Lie in April

Your Lie in April is a heartwarming anime that tells the story of Kosei Arima, a former child prodigy pianist who lost his ability to hear the sound of his own playing after a traumatic event in his childhood. His life takes a turn when he meets a free-spirited violinist, Kaori Miyazono, who encourages him to start playing again and shows him the beauty of music. As they form a deep bond, Kosei learns to overcome his past and confront his fears while discovering his musical voice. With stunning animation, touching themes, and a powerful soundtrack, Your Lie in April is a must-watch for anyone who loves music and wants to experience the power of friendship and love.
19. Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex

Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex is a science fiction anime series that explores the blurred line between humans and machines. The series follows the members of Public Security Section 9, a special operations unit tasked with combating cybercrime and terrorism in a futuristic world where technology has advanced to the point where the boundaries between humans and machines are increasingly blurred.
The series is renowned for its breathtaking animation and groundbreaking storytelling, tackling themes of identity, consciousness, and the nature of humanity in a way that is both thought-provoking and thrilling. It features a rich cast of characters, including the enigmatic Major Motoko Kusanagi and the stoic Section 9 leader, Daisuke Aramaki, whose complex relationships and personalities make the series all the more compelling.
Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex is a must-watch for fans of science fiction and cyberpunk and anyone interested in exploring the philosophical and ethical implications of our increasingly interconnected world. With its stunning visuals, complex characters, and thought-provoking themes, it is no wonder that this anime has become a beloved classic in the genre.
18. Bleach

Bleach is a popular shonen anime that tells the story of Ichigo Kurosaki, a teenager who can see ghosts. After encountering a Soul Reaper, a supernatural being responsible for ensuring the balance between the living and the dead, Ichigo becomes embroiled in a world of danger and adventure. With the help of his newfound friends, he must fight against evil spirits and other supernatural threats to protect his loved ones and the world around him.
Bleach’s unique blend of action, comedy, and drama makes it stand out. The fight scenes are some of the most memorable in all anime, with beautifully choreographed sword fights and breathtaking displays of power. But the series also explores more profound themes, such as the nature of identity, the weight of responsibility, and the bonds of family and friendship.
Bleach fans appreciate its intricate plot, dynamic characters, and stunning visuals. With over 300 episodes, several movies, and a dedicated fanbase, Bleach is a timeless classic that continues to captivate audiences worldwide.
17. Psycho-Pass

Psycho-Pass is a sci-fi crime anime that is set in a future dystopian world where technology is used to control crime. The story follows the main character, Akane Tsunemori, a newly appointed Inspector who maintains societal order. Society has a system called the Sybil System that can read people’s psychological states and determine their likelihood of committing crimes.
The anime explores themes of morality, justice, and the price of security, as Akane struggles to maintain her values while working within the system. The storyline is dark and suspenseful, with plot twists and turns that keep the audience engaged. The animation is visually stunning, and the soundtrack is hauntingly beautiful.
Overall, Psycho-Pass is a must-watch for crime dramas and sci-fi thrillers fans. It’s a thought-provoking anime that challenges the audience’s perceptions of right and wrong and the consequences of giving too much power to technology.
16. Samurai Champloo

Samurai Champloo is a unique anime that blends traditional Japanese culture with modern-day hip-hop. The show follows a group of three unlikely companions – a ronin samurai, a young girl, and a rogue ninja – as they travel across feudal Japan in search of the “samurai who smells of sunflowers.” Along the way, they encounter various characters and situations that challenge their beliefs and abilities, leading to intense action sequences and emotional moments.
What sets Samurai Champloo apart is its use of music and animation styles. The show features an incredible hip-hop soundtrack produced by the late Nujabes, which creates a perfect backdrop for the show’s action and storytelling. The animation style is also unique, combining traditional Japanese art and modern-day techniques to create a visually stunning experience.
Samurai Champloo is a must-watch for anyone interested in anime, hip-hop, or a good adventure story. It’s a classic that has stood the test of time and inspires new generations of anime fans.
15. Fate/Zero

Fate/Zero is a thrilling anime series set in a fantastical world where seven mages must compete in a deadly battle called the Holy Grail War. Each mage summons a powerful servant, representing a historical figure or legend, to fight on their behalf. The winner of the war earns the coveted Holy Grail, which is said to grant any wish. However, as the battles rage on, the lines between good and evil become blurred, and the characters must navigate complex moral dilemmas while fighting for survival. The anime is known for its intense action scenes, complex characters, and thought-provoking themes about the nature of power, sacrifice, and humanity. The beautiful animation and stunning soundtrack only add to the immersive experience, making Fate/Zero a must-watch for fans of the fantasy and action genres.
14. Hunter x Hunter

Hunter x Hunter is an anime that follows the journey of a young boy named Gon Freecss, who discovers that his father, who he thought was dead, is a world-renowned Hunter. To find his father, Gon decides to become a Hunter himself and begins a journey to pass the rigorous Hunter exam.
Along the way, he meets and befriends other aspiring Hunters, including the quick-witted and resourceful Kurapika, the hot-headed and impulsive Leorio, and the mischievous and mysterious Killua. Together, they face numerous challenges and obstacles as they navigate the dangerous world of Hunters, including battles with powerful enemies and intense physical and mental training.
Hunter x Hunter is known for its complex characters, intricate world-building, and action-packed storyline. It explores themes such as friendship, sacrifice, and the pursuit of power and has garnered a dedicated fan base due to its unique blend of shonen action and psychological depth.
13. Steins; Gate

Steins; Gate is a thrilling anime series that follows the story of a self-proclaimed mad scientist named Rintaro Okabe, who, along with his friends, accidentally discovers a way to send text messages to the past, thereby altering history. As they continue experimenting with this discovery, they unknowingly attract the attention of a shadowy organization that seeks to control their technology for their own purposes.
The series is praised for its complex and intricate plot, supported by a cast of interesting and well-developed characters. The anime effectively blends elements of science fiction, thriller, and romance genres to create a unique and captivating story that keeps the viewers engaged from start to finish. It also explores the concept of time travel and its consequences thoughtfully and intelligently, making it a must-watch for fans of the genre.
12. Code Geass

Code Geass is a sci-fi, mecha, and political thriller anime that tells the story of Lelouch Lamperouge, a high school student who becomes a revolutionary leader with the power to control minds. With the help of his mecha, the Zero, Lelouch attempts to take down the corrupt Britannian Empire that has taken over Japan, known as Area 11 in the anime. The plot is full of twists and turns, political intrigue, and epic mecha battles that keep viewers on the edge of their seats. Code Geass explores themes of morality, war, revolution, and the price of power. The character development is excellent, with complex and relatable characters that have their own motivations and struggles. The animation and soundtrack are also top-notch, adding to the immersive experience. Code Geass is a must-watch for fans of the mecha and political thriller genres.
11. Neon Genesis Evangelion

Neon Genesis Evangelion is a legendary anime that has left a lasting impact on the medium. Set in a post-apocalyptic world, it follows the story of Shinji Ikari, a teenage boy recruited by his father to pilot a giant bio-machine called an “Evangelion” to fight mysterious beings known as “Angels.” The series explores themes such as human identity, mental illness, and the nature of consciousness, with a complex and layered storyline that has captivated audiences for years. It is a must-watch for any anime fan, and its groundbreaking animation and storytelling make it a timeless classic.
10. My Hero Academia

My Hero Academia, also known as Boku no Hero Academia in Japan, is a wildly popular anime series that follows the story of a young boy named Izuku Midoriya in a world where almost everyone has a superpower called a “quirk.” Unfortunately, Midoriya is one of the few individuals born without any quirk. Despite this, he dreams of becoming a hero and enrolls in a prestigious school for aspiring heroes.
The series is known for its intense action scenes, colorful character cast, perseverance, and teamwork themes. Midoriya’s journey from being a quirkless underdog to a powerful hero-in-training has captivated audiences worldwide. My Hero Academia has received critical acclaim for its animation quality, storytelling, and characters, becoming one of the most successful anime series of the past decade.
9. JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure

JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure is an action-packed anime series that follows the Joestar family, who possess unique powers that they use to fight against various enemies. The series is known for its over-the-top action, unique character designs, and compelling story that spans multiple generations. Each season introduces new Joestars and villains, each with their own unique abilities and motivations. The show’s animation style is distinct and colorful, with exaggerated character movements and explosive action scenes. Fans of the series often cite its memorable characters, humor, and epic battles as some of its standout features.
8. Sword Art Online

Sword Art Online is an anime series that explores the futuristic concept of virtual reality and gaming. The story revolves around a young man named Kirito, trapped in a virtual reality MMORPG (massively multiplayer online role-playing game) called Sword Art Online. The players cannot log out of the game; if they die in the game, they will also die in real life.
The show follows Kirito as he navigates this dangerous virtual world, fighting against monsters and other players to escape. Along the way, he forms relationships with other players and discovers secrets about the game’s creator and the reason behind their entrapment.
Sword Art Online is known for its intense action scenes, emotional moments, and exploration of complex themes such as identity, morality, and human connection.
7. Dragon Ball Z

Dragon Ball Z is a classic anime that has stood the test of time. It follows the adventures of Goku, a mighty warrior who protects the Earth from various villains. With epic battles and intense power-ups, Dragon Ball Z has become a staple of the anime world. The characters are memorable, the action is thrilling, and the story is full of twists and turns that keep you on the edge of your seat. The anime is known for its iconic fight scenes and transformations, such as the Super Saiyan transformation. Dragon Ball Z has influenced countless other anime and has inspired generations of fans worldwide.
6. One Piece

One Piece is a popular anime that follows the adventures of a young man named Monkey D. Luffy as he sets out to become the Pirate King. The story is set in a world where pirates roam the seas, searching for the ultimate treasure, the One Piece. Luffy is joined on his journey by a diverse group of friends, each with unique abilities and personalities.
The anime is known for its immersive world-building, compelling characters, and epic battles. The colorful and energetic animation style brings the action-packed scenes to life. One Piece is also renowned for its humor and emotional moments that tug at the heartstrings.
As the anime progresses, Luffy and his crew face increasingly dangerous foes as they navigate treacherous waters, battle rival pirates, and encounter deadly creatures. With over 1000 episodes, One Piece has captivated audiences worldwide and is a beloved anime for its exciting storylines, strong character development, and thrilling action.
5. Cowboy Bebop

“Cowboy Bebop” is a classic anime that has garnered a massive cult following since its release in 1998. It is set in a futuristic world where humans have colonized planets throughout the galaxy. It follows the adventures of a crew of bounty hunters, known as “cowboys,” aboard the spaceship Bebop. The series masterfully blends various genres, including sci-fi, western, film noir, and jazz music, to create a unique and captivating atmosphere.
The show is led by a cast of unforgettable characters, each with an intricate backstory and motivations. Spike Spiegel, the laid-back yet deadly former hitman, and his partner Jet Black, the stoic and fatherly ex-cop, make for a dynamic duo. The series also introduces the enigmatic and alluring Faye Valentine, the quirky and intelligent hacker Ed, and the lovable Welsh Corgi, Ein.
One of the show’s most notable aspects is its incredible soundtrack, composed by Yoko Kanno. The jazzy and bluesy tunes and the show’s stunning animation and action scenes create a unique viewing experience that is hard to replicate.
“Cowboy Bebop” is a timeless masterpiece that stands the test of time, and its influence can still be felt in modern pop culture. It is a must-watch for any anime fan or lover of great storytelling.
4. Naruto

“Naruto” is a beloved anime series that follows the story of Naruto Uzumaki, a young ninja from the Hidden Leaf Village. The series explores Naruto’s journey to becoming the strongest ninja in his village while uncovering secrets about his past and the mysterious nine-tailed fox that was sealed inside him. Along the way, he meets new friends and foes and confronts various challenges, from dangerous missions to epic battles against powerful enemies. With its compelling story, unique characters, and stunning fight scenes, “Naruto” has become a classic anime that has captured the hearts of fans worldwide.
3. Death Note

Death Note is a psychological thriller anime that follows the story of a high school student named Light Yagami who discovers a mysterious notebook with the power to kill anyone whose name is written inside. As he becomes more consumed by his newfound power and begins to eliminate criminals, a cat-and-mouse game ensues with the enigmatic detective known only as “L.” With complex characters and intricate plot twists, Death Note explores themes of morality, justice, and power in a gripping and intense narrative.
2. Attack on Titan

Attack on Titan is an intense and thrilling anime in a world where humanity has been forced to live inside cities surrounded by enormous walls to protect themselves from man-eating Titans. The story follows Eren Yeager, a young boy who witnesses the brutal death of his mother by the Titans and vows to avenge her by joining the military and fighting against them. Along with his friends, he uncovers dark secrets about the Titans and the true nature of their existence. With jaw-dropping action scenes and complex characters, Attack on Titan is an anime that will keep you on the edge of your seat until the end.
1. Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood

Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood is a captivating anime series that follows the journey of two brothers, Edward and Alphonse Elric, searching for the Philosopher’s Stone to restore their bodies after a failed alchemical experiment. Set in an alternate world where alchemy is a common practice, the series explores themes of brotherhood, sacrifice, and the consequences of power. The plot is full of twists and turns, keeping viewers on edge until the end. The animation is top-notch, with stunning fight scenes and intricate character designs. The character development is also a highlight, as the Elric brothers and the supporting cast evolve throughout the series. Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood is widely regarded as one of the most incredible anime series ever, and for a good reason.