Top Anime Of The Century (So Far)

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Anime has exploded in popularity in the 21st century, offering incredible shows and movies across all kinds of genres. These series have captivated audiences around the world with their original stories, clever adaptations, and beautiful visuals. From grand adventures to intimate character studies, they’ve introduced innovative ideas, unforgettable settings, and deeply moving experiences. This collection highlights the modern anime that has resonated with both new viewers and dedicated fans, featuring everything from action-packed fantasies to realistic slice-of-life stories and thought-provoking science fiction.

‘Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood’ (2009–2010)

‘Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood’ is an anime series based on a popular manga by Hiromu Arakawa. It tells the story of brothers Edward and Alphonse Elric, who are trying to fix their bodies after an alchemy experiment goes wrong. The show follows the complete manga story with a well-paced plot. Animated by Bones, it features exciting action scenes and a complex story with many characters involved in political and ethical dilemmas. Many people recommend it as a great anime to start with because of its detailed world, unique magic system, and compelling characters.

‘Attack on Titan’ (2013–2023)

Attack on Titan starts within the walls of fortified cities, where humans battle gigantic, man-eating Titans using special 3D maneuver gear. The series evolves from a terrifying fight for survival into a complex story of military strategy and political secrets, gradually uncovering the truth behind the Titans themselves. The first three seasons were animated by Wit Studio, and MAPPA finished the series. Viewers who stick with the show will be rewarded by its changing viewpoints and carefully constructed reveals as the central mystery unfolds.

‘Death Note’ (2006–2007)

Death Note follows a high school student who discovers a notebook with the power to kill anyone whose name he writes in it. The story unfolds as a gripping battle of wits between him and a detective named L. The animation studio Madhouse created a visually polished series with a thoughtful pace, emphasizing psychological strategy and the established rules of the notebook’s power. The show is famous for its intricate system of abilities and how the stakes steadily rise throughout the plot.

‘Steins;Gate’ (2011)

Steins;Gate is based on a story about a scientist who accidentally discovers a way to send messages to the past using a phone and a microwave. Even small changes to the past have big consequences, and the characters must work to restore a stable timeline. The show starts with lighthearted comedy but slowly becomes more intense as it explores the complexities of time travel. It’s well-written, with clues subtly placed throughout, and delivers a satisfying emotional conclusion to a complicated story.

‘Naruto: Shippuden’ (2007–2017)

‘Naruto: Shippuden’ follows Naruto Uzumaki as he strives to defend his village and rescue his friend Sasuke. The series broadens the ninja universe, introducing new families, complex international relationships, and epic battles. Animated by Studio Pierrot, the show delves into inherited powers and the origins of powerful creatures. The structured system of training and missions helps drive the narrative across its many episodes.

‘Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba’ (2019–)

‘Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba’ tells the story of Tanjiro, who becomes a demon slayer hoping to find a way to save his sister. The animation, created by Ufotable, uniquely combines traditional 2D and modern 3D techniques for stunning action sequences. While each episode often features a new demon to defeat, these battles contribute to a larger story about the powerful Twelve Kizuki. The show also uses distinct music and color palettes to highlight each character’s unique fighting style and the environments they battle in.

‘Jujutsu Kaisen’ (2020–)

‘Jujutsu Kaisen’ follows Yuji Itadori, who gains a powerful spirit inside him after consuming a cursed object. The show features a unique system of cursed energy that powers the characters’ abilities and defines their battles. The animation by MAPPA is known for its smooth fight scenes and dynamic visual effects. Set in a school, the series consistently provides new challenges and expands on the different groups of sorcerers.

‘Mob Psycho 100’ (2016–2019)

Mob Psycho 100 follows a remarkably gifted psychic who works for a supposed exorcist, all while striving for a typical life. The animation studio Bones uses dynamic, over-the-top movement, clever visual humor, and unique abstract scenes. Each episode balances funny exorcism adventures with genuine character development for Mob and his friends, showing how he learns to set limits and build self-esteem without depending on his powers.

‘Violet Evergarden’ (2018)

Violet Evergarden tells the story of a young woman who used to be a soldier and now works as a letter writer. Through her work, she begins to understand feelings and the power of language. The animation, created by Kyoto Animation, is beautifully detailed, with expressive characters and stunning scenery. Each episode focuses on a different person and their story, helping Violet to grow and learn. The series thoughtfully examines themes of communication, loss, and how words can impact us all.

‘Made in Abyss’ (2017–)

‘Made in Abyss’ follows two children as they descend into a massive, dangerous pit brimming with ancient artifacts and treacherous environments. The further they go, the more severe physical curses affect them and their equipment. The animation studio Kinema Citrus expertly combines adorable character designs with disturbing creatures. The children keep detailed notes and maps to record their findings and understand the unique challenges of each level they explore.

‘Hunter x Hunter’ (2011–2014)

‘Hunter x Hunter’ tells the story of Gon and Killua as they navigate challenging exams, dangerous criminal organizations, and unique fighting styles. The anime, produced by Madhouse, covers the most important storylines, particularly focusing on ‘Nen’ – a system of powers that defines how characters fight and strategize. The show blends adventure, suspense, and action, but always maintains a consistent set of rules. Battles aren’t won with brute force; instead, they rely on careful planning, agreements, and making difficult choices.

‘Gurren Lagann’ (2007)

Starting in a hidden underground world, ‘Gurren Lagann’ quickly escalates to epic battles with giant robots. The show uses striking visuals and constantly increasing scale to emphasize each new level of conflict. It combines straightforward imagery, like drills, with easily understood team dynamics and the merging of machines. The story progresses from a fight for freedom, to venturing into the unknown, and finally to a galaxy-spanning struggle, all while keeping the focus on the characters and their journey.

‘My Hero Academia’ (2016–)

‘My Hero Academia’ takes place in a world where many people are born with superpowers called Quirks. The story centers on students training to become heroes at U.A. High School, and follows their experiences with internships, battles against villains, and the process of earning their hero licenses. The animation studio Bones creates action sequences that are easy to follow and emphasize both teamwork and saving people. The series also features a detailed world with hero rankings, agencies, and rules governing the use of powers.

‘Your Name.’ (2016)

I absolutely loved ‘Your Name.’! It’s such a clever story about two teens who magically switch bodies and try to navigate each other’s lives, communicating through handwritten notes. But it’s not just a simple switch – the movie throws in this amazing twist later on that makes you really think and try to figure things out alongside the characters, piecing together where and when everything happened. And visually, it’s stunning! The filmmakers at CoMix Wave Films created these incredibly detailed backgrounds – both bustling city scenes and peaceful countryside views – that really ground the story. Plus, the music and recurring images beautifully connect themes of memory, the importance of place, and the bonds between people. It all just comes together so perfectly!

‘Spirited Away’ (2001)

In ‘Spirited Away,’ a young girl finds work at a bathhouse for spirits in an effort to save her parents. The film meticulously builds this world with unique creatures, a detailed set of rules, and a clear understanding of how the bathhouse operates. Chihiro’s work revolves around navigating agreements, understanding names, and doing favors for others. By focusing on the everyday tasks of this fantastical world, the film feels surprisingly real.

‘The Girl Who Leapt Through Time’ (2006)

‘The Girl Who Leapt Through Time’ tells the story of a student who discovers she can travel back in time. While she tries to improve things by making small changes to the past, these actions often have unexpected consequences. Director Mamoru Hosoda skillfully shows how even minor events can affect relationships, and the film’s rules about time travel force the main character to make a crucial choice.

‘Mononoke’ (2007)

‘Mononoke’ centers around the Medicine Seller and his work banishing spirits. He does this by discovering the spirit’s true form, the story behind its existence, and the source of its sorrow. Toei Animation beautifully presents each story with artwork inspired by traditional Japanese woodblock prints, using unique visual patterns. Each case feels like a self-contained play, with the mystery unfolding through conversations and investigation before the actual exorcism takes place.

‘Ping Pong the Animation’ (2014)

“Ping Pong the Animation” is based on Taiyo Matsumoto’s manga and tells the story of two friends and how they each approach competition. Director Masaaki Yuasa uses a distinctive, energetic visual style with quick lines and fluid camera movements to emphasize the speed and power of the game. The series explores themes like the impact of coaching, the inner workings of competitive clubs, and the mental challenges faced by players. It follows the players’ progress through tournaments while still delving into their personal lives and emotions.

‘March Comes In Like a Lion’ (2016–2018)

March Comes In Like a Lion is a story about a young, professional shogi player navigating loneliness and building relationships. The animation style is unique, mixing visually striking moments with realistic everyday life. Even if you’re not familiar with shogi, the series clearly explains the game’s strategy and what’s at stake. It also thoughtfully explores themes of mental health and the importance of supportive communities, particularly through the protagonist’s connections with the Kawamoto family and his school life.

‘Paranoia Agent’ (2004)

‘Paranoia Agent’ is a series of connected stories about a city terrorized by a mysterious attacker known as Lil Slugger. Director Satoshi Kon explores themes of rumors, stress, and the influence of media, and the animation studio Madhouse uses different visual styles in each episode to reflect the unique perspective of the character it focuses on. As the mystery unfolds, the series shows how social pressures can contribute to widespread, shared illusions.

‘Monster’ (2004–2005)

‘Monster’ is based on Naoki Urasawa’s suspenseful story of a doctor who saves a young boy, only for that boy to grow up and become a murderer. The series follows Dr. Tenma as he chases the repercussions of his decision across several countries and over many years. The animation studio Madhouse uses a deliberate, slow-paced approach, focusing on in-depth character development. The story unfolds through interviews, official records, and testimonies from people involved.

‘Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion’ (2006–2008)

‘Code Geass’ centers around Lelouch, a prince who obtains a special ability that forces people to obey him. He uses this power to lead a rebellion, hidden behind a mask. The show blends exciting battles with giant robots (mecha) and strategic, chess-like maneuvers, featuring constantly changing alliances. Everyday school scenes are interwoven with high-stakes operations that dramatically alter the political landscape. Lelouch’s power, however, isn’t limitless; it has specific rules and weaknesses that impact every decision he makes.

‘Fate/Zero’ (2011–2012)

‘Fate/Zero’ is a fierce competition where powerful mages summon heroes from the past to battle for a wish-granting prize. The animation studio Ufotable creates stunning visuals, with fast-moving weapon effects, magical summoning circles, and beautifully rendered cityscapes at night. The series delves into the motivations of each mage and their heroic servant, exploring their beliefs and ambitions. It also examines the agreements they make, the magical bonds that connect them, and the sacrifices required to achieve victory.

‘Haikyu!!’ (2014–2020)

‘Haikyu!!’ is a series about a high school volleyball team and their journey to improve. The show details the fundamentals of the sport, like quick plays, team positioning, and anticipating opponents’ blocks. It emphasizes realistic gameplay, clearly showing the team’s training – including drills and strategy – and how those skills are used in actual matches. Plus, the different teams they face all have their own unique approaches to the game, pushing Karasuno to constantly evolve.

‘Cyberpunk: Edgerunners’ (2022)

Okay, so ‘Cyberpunk: Edgerunners’ really grabbed me. It’s about a kid who, after a tough loss, dives headfirst into the dangerous world of mercenary work in Night City. What I loved is how Studio Trigger visually represents everything – the action is super fast and chaotic, with these really cool, glitchy effects that show you what it *feels* like to have a ton of cyberware. The show isn’t just about the action though; it’s really focused on the crew, the heists they pull off, and the dangers of getting too much tech installed. Honestly, the way they use the city’s look and slang just drives home how Night City controls everything these characters do – it’s woven into every single decision.

‘One-Punch Man’ (2015–)

‘One Punch Man’ centers around Saitama, a hero so powerful he defeats enemies with just one punch, but finds it hard to feel truly challenged. The show details a world with a Hero Association that ranks heroes, tests their abilities, and responds to threats of varying severity. The first season, created by Madhouse, was known for its dynamic action and comedic timing. As the series progresses, it introduces more heroes and monsters, and explores how characters train and increase their power.

‘Samurai Champloo’ (2004–2005)

‘Samurai Champloo’ follows a tea house waitress who teams up with two skilled swordsmen as they travel through historical Japan. The show uniquely mixes traditional settings with modern hip hop music and fast-paced editing. Each episode tells a self-contained story, often featuring encounters with merchants, artists, and various outlaws. The action sequences are dynamic, ranging from energetic, improvised fights to carefully choreographed sword battles that emphasize technique and positioning.

‘Vinland Saga’ (2019–)

The anime ‘Vinland Saga’ is based on Makoto Yukimura’s manga, telling the story of Vikings and their quest for a peaceful land. It realistically portrays the warfare, ships, and society of the Danes and English during that period. The animation studios, MAPPA and Wit Studio, have paid close attention to creating authentic landscapes and depicting the challenges of surviving in harsh, cold climates. The story evolves from characters seeking revenge to exploring the reasons behind endless violence, ultimately suggesting that a life of farming could offer a better future.

‘Puella Magi Madoka Magica’ (2011)

‘Puella Magi Madoka Magica’ offers a new take on the typical magical girl story, portraying magical contracts as deals with serious consequences. The show depicts witches and their worlds as complex, ever-changing labyrinths, and uses time travel and a system of energy to illustrate how events connect. Clever direction and music build suspense and reveal information at just the right moments.

‘Psycho-Pass’ (2012–2019)

In the world of ‘Psycho-Pass,’ a futuristic system called Sibyl System measures people’s mental states to predict criminal behavior. Law enforcement, consisting of Inspectors and Enforcers, use special weapons called Dominators that adjust their power based on how dangerous a person is considered. The series explores the complex relationship between law, personal privacy, and advanced technology in modern policing. Throughout the seasons and films, conflicts arise over legal boundaries and the potential drawbacks of relying too much on computer algorithms to control society.

‘Baccano!’ (2007)

‘Baccano!’ weaves together several stories about immortal beings, gangsters, and thieves, primarily on a train traveling across the country, but extending beyond that setting. The narrative jumps around in time, revealing events from different characters’ perspectives. The show explores how immortality works – how people become immortal and what can cause them to lose it. It features a large cast divided into separate groups, each with its own goals and reasons for acting.

‘Kaguya-sama: Love Is War’ (2019–2022)

‘Kaguya-sama: Love Is War’ is a hilarious anime about two brilliant students who are both too proud to confess their feelings, so they turn dating into a competitive game. Each episode is made up of short scenes showing their elaborate plans, funny misunderstandings, and regular student council work. The show playfully explains the ‘rules’ of their mind games with narration and visual humor, and keeps the pace quick and engaging using music, editing, and helpful charts to illustrate their strategies.

‘Chainsaw Man’ (2022–)

‘Chainsaw Man’ centers around Denji, a devil hunter who gains the power of a chainsaw devil and begins working for a government organization. The animation studio, MAPPA, makes the action sequences feel intense and believable with dynamic camera angles and detailed environments. The series features a unique power system based on contracts, the replenishment of strength through blood, and a hierarchy of devils. Stories typically involve missions like patrols and surprise attacks, and the teams often change as they face new and dangerous opponents.

‘Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End’ (2023–2024)

‘Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End’ follows the story of an elf mage living a long life after successfully defeating a powerful demon. The series depicts her training new apprentices, taking magical exams, and rediscovering ancient spells. Many episodes focus on how memories fade and relationships evolve over time. The animation studio Madhouse uses gentle lighting and beautifully detailed settings to emphasize the feeling of years passing.

‘Ranking of Kings’ (2021–2022)

‘Ranking of Kings’ tells the story of Bojji, a deaf prince determined to become strong enough to defend his kingdom. The world of the show features a system where rulers are ranked based on their power and how well they lead. The series carefully details how Bojji trains, choosing weapons and techniques suited to his unique abilities. Visually, the animation by Wit Studio is striking, combining clean, simple designs with dynamic and detailed action scenes.

‘Dr. Stone’ (2019–2023)

‘Dr. Stone’ starts with a mysterious event that turns everyone into stone. The story follows a brilliant young scientist who dedicates himself to restoring civilization. Each episode details how everyday items – from soap and glass to electricity – are recreated. As the world rebuilds, different groups emerge with conflicting ideas about how to lead and use technology. The animation does a great job of showing exactly how things are made and the resources needed, making it easy to understand the process.

‘Erased’ (2016)

‘Erased’ centers on a man with the unique ability to briefly travel back in time, allowing him to avert disasters. After a significant event, he’s sent all the way back to his childhood and begins solving a string of kidnapping cases. The show cleverly uses details like school timetables, explanations of where people were, and subtle shifts in daily life to reveal clues. It’s a suspenseful thriller that also thoughtfully explores how adults and children interact.

‘A Silent Voice: The Movie’ (2016)

‘A Silent Voice’ tells the story of a former bully trying to make things right with a deaf classmate. The film thoughtfully portrays sign language, hearing aids, and how schools support students with disabilities. It explores themes of loneliness, how groups of friends work, and the difficult journey of earning back someone’s trust. The animation studio, Kyoto Animation, uses detailed close-ups and realistic sound to help viewers understand each character’s perspective.

‘Kill la Kill’ (2013–2014)

‘Kill la Kill’ centers around a student who fights with scissors and takes on a school where power comes from what you wear. The story introduces Life Fibers and special uniforms called Goku Uniforms, which give people unique abilities. Studio Trigger’s animation is fast-paced and full of humor, making the action sequences easy to follow. The story unfolds through tournaments and invasions with well-defined rules, rankings, and goals.

‘Devilman Crybaby’ (2018)

‘Devilman Crybaby’ updates the classic Go Nagai story for today’s world, incorporating elements of internet culture. The series’ conflicts – stemming from the rules governing transformations between devils and humans – play out in everyday locations like clubs, schools, and through the media. Director Masaaki Yuasa uses a fluid, dynamic visual style to emphasize both the intense speed and the unsettling nature of demonic possession. The story follows the escalating public fear and the groups that emerge as tensions rise.

Share your own favorites and the ones you think we missed in the comments.

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2025-10-19 03:19