Highest rated anime of all time continues to captivate fans worldwide as the medium explodes in popularity. Anime is actually one of the fastest-growing media in the world today.
Gone are the days when finding quality anime required serious effort. Due to increasing demand, more streaming platforms are embracing anime, giving you easy access to both beloved classics and newest shows.
The popularity of anime has skyrocketed in the West in recent years, making this the perfect time to be an anime fan.
Looking for the best anime ranked by fellow enthusiasts? According to IMDb, Attack on Titan stands tall with an impressive 9.1 rating from 651,000 votes, followed closely by Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood also at 9.1 with 231,000 votes. One Piece secures third place with a 9.0 rating from 326,000 fans.
What makes the top ranked anime so special? The best anime of all time tell incredible, compelling stories with gorgeous visuals and fascinating characters. With this in mind, we’ve gathered the 15 highest rated animes based on fan votes to help you discover your next obsession.
Attack on Titan
Image Source: Cultured Vultures
At the pinnacle of the highest rated anime of all time stands Attack on Titan, a dark fantasy series that concluded in late 2023 after a decade-long run. This critically acclaimed series has fundamentally changed how the world views anime.
Attack on Titan plot summary
Set in a post-apocalyptic world, Attack on Titan follows humanity’s struggle for survival against man-eating giants called Titans.
The story begins when protagonist Eren Yeager witnesses his mother being devoured by a Titan after the Colossal Titan breaches their city’s protective wall.
Vowing vengeance, Eren joins the elite Survey Corps alongside friends Mikasa and Armin. The narrative takes unexpected turns when Eren discovers he can transform into a Titan himself, ultimately uncovering shocking truths about their world and humanity’s history.
Attack on Titan animation & art style
The series showcases remarkable visual evolution across its four seasons. Initially animated by WIT Studio (seasons 1-3) before MAPPA took over for the final season.
WIT Studio’s approach emphasized stylized animation with hyperfocus on characters’ eyes to convey emotion, while MAPPA adopted a more realistic esthetic that closely resembled creator Hajime Isayama’s manga style.
Furthermore, the series pioneered innovative action sequences with ODM gear through a tight combination of 2D and 3D animation techniques.
Attack on Titan fan reception
Attack on Titan boasts an impressive 96% critic score on Rotten Tomatoes alongside a 95% audience score. Additionally, three of its seasons achieved perfect 100% critic scores.
The series holds a rating of 9.1 on IMDb from 651,000 votes, cementing its position as one of the best anime ranked by fans worldwide. Critics have praised the show for its storytelling, animation quality, action sequences, character development, and handling of dark themes.
Attack on Titan cultural impact
Beyond critical acclaim, the series has made remarkable cultural contributions. In 2021, Attack on Titan became the most in-demand show globally, surpassing Western giants like The Witcher and Stranger Things.
Consequently, the 2025 Crunchyroll Anime Awards selected it as the first recipient of its prestigious Global Impact Award, celebrating its “indelible mark on culture, history, and audiences worldwide”.
The manga has sold over 140 million volumes globally, illustrating its immense popularity across international markets.
Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood
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Holding the coveted second position among the highest rated anime of all time, Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood stands as a testament to storytelling perfection within the shonen genre.
This beloved series has maintained its reputation as a masterpiece more than a decade after its release.
Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood plot summary
The narrative centers on two brothers, Edward and Alphonse Elric, who attempt forbidden human transmutation to resurrect their deceased mother.
The failed experiment costs Edward his arm and leg, whereas Alphonse loses his entire body, with his soul bound to a suit of armor. Equipped with automail prosthetics, Edward joins the State Military as the “Fullmetal Alchemist”.
Together, they embark on a quest for the Philosopher’s Stone to restore their bodies. As their journey unfolds, they uncover a sinister government conspiracy involving homunculi and the dark secrets of their father’s past.
Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood animation & art style
Produced by Studio Bones and directed by Yasuhiro Irie, the series features exceptional animation quality that remains impressive even years later.
The fight sequences are meticulously choreographed, showcasing fluid movement and impactful visual effects.
Unlike many anime that suffer from inconsistent quality, Brotherhood maintained high standards throughout its 64-episode run. The distinctive art style balances realism with stylized esthetics, contributing to its timeless visual appeal.
Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood fan reception
The series holds a perfect 100% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes. Moreover, it dominated rankings as the top-rated anime on MyAnimeList, Anime News Network, and IMDb until recently being overtaken by Frieren.
Fans particularly praise its airtight pacing, satisfying conclusion, and lack of filler content. The complex characters—from protagonists to villains—carry moral depth that keeps audiences invested.
Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood cultural impact
As a faithful adaptation of Hiromu Arakawa’s manga, Brotherhood set new standards for anime adaptations. Its success demonstrated how fresh perspectives could elevate a series.
The show refuses to underestimate its audience, tackling philosophical questions about human life, justice, and ambition.
For many viewers, experiencing the journey of the Elric brothers permanently changed their expectations for anime storytelling.
One Piece
Image Source: VIZ
Claiming its place as the third-most highest rated anime of all time, One Piece has established an unparalleled legacy since its 1999 debut.
With over 1,000 episodes and chapters, this epic saga has evolved from a popular Japanese series into a global phenomenon.
One Piece plot summary
The story follows Monkey D. Luffy, a young pirate with rubber-like abilities gained from accidentally eating a devil fruit. Inspired by his childhood hero Red-Haired Shanks, Luffy embarks on a quest to find the legendary treasure known as the One Piece and become the King of Pirates.
Also read: 17 Best Animes Like Highschool DxD That You’ll Love in 2025
Throughout his journey across the Grand Line, Luffy assembles a diverse crew including swordsman Roronoa Zoro, navigator Nami, chef Sanji, and several other memorable characters.
The narrative spans numerous islands and seas, each with distinct cultures, politics, and histories, creating an expansive world-building experience.
One Piece animation & art style
Eiichiro Oda’s distinctive character designs feature exaggerated features and creative outfits that add playful imagination to the series. Nevertheless, the animation quality has undergone significant evolution throughout its run.
Early episodes had a raw, energetic feel that gradually transitioned to high definition during the Water Seven Arc.
The series experienced another remarkable visual upgrade during the Wano Country arc, with Toei Animation investing in top-tier animators, cinematic direction, and fluid fight choreography.
The current Egghead arc introduced a softer, bright pastel color palette that distinguishes it as a fresh adventure.
One Piece fan reception
The series holds an impressive 9.0 rating on IMDb from 326,000 fans [intro section]. In spite of its intimidating length, One Piece gained exponential popularity during the pandemic when people “had no excuse not to watch a show with 900-plus episodes”.
Interestingly, the fanbase is rather polarizing – some viewers claim it’s life-changing while others feel deterred by the over-enthusiastic fandom. Google Trends data shows the franchise gained a massive popularity spike during the release of the live-action adaptation, reaching unprecedented levels.
One Piece cultural impact
Beyond entertainment, One Piece has influenced countless other anime and manga creators. Series like Black Clover, Fairy Tail, and My Hero Academia reflect its themes of friendship, perseverance, and adventurous world-building.
The franchise has sold over 500 million manga volumes worldwide, making it the best-selling manga in history. Additionally, its unique approach to morality—portraying neither pirates nor government as entirely good or evil—displays surprising maturity for a series targeted at young audiences.
One Piece revolutionized storytelling by carefully building characters and creating emotional climaxes rather than relying on weekly cliffhangers.
Hunter x Hunter
Image Source: Game Rant
Frequently cited as a masterclass in genre subversion, Hunter x Hunter earns its place among the highest rated anime of all time, standing out for its complex characters and psychological depth.
Hunter x Hunter plot summary
The narrative follows Gon Freecss, a young boy who discovers his supposedly dead father is actually a world-renowned Hunter. Inspired, Gon sets out to become a Hunter himself.
Throughout his journey, he befriends three other candidates: Kurapika, seeking vengeance for his slaughtered clan; Leorio, an aspiring physician; plus Killua, a former assassin.
The story evolves across several distinctive arcs, beginning with the challenging Hunter Exam. Afterward, Gon and Killua learn Nen, a life energy that manifests paranormal abilities.
They then reunite with their companions in Yorknew City, clash with the Phantom Troupe, plus explore Greed Island—a Nen-infused video game created by Gon’s father.
Eventually, they face the Chimera Ants, powerful creatures threatening humanity. In this arc, Gon, driven by vengeance over his mentor’s death, makes a devastating sacrifice.
Hunter x Hunter animation & art style
The 2011 Madhouse adaptation features remarkably consistent animation quality even across 148 episodes. Visually, it employs a vibrant color palette that creates a cheerful esthetic—cleverly camouflaging a world filled with violence.
This contrasts sharply with Nippon Animation’s 1999 version, which used muted tones plus realistic character designs to create a grittier, more lived-in atmosphere.
The artistic approaches differ fundamentally—the 1999 version emphasized earthier colors reminiscent of Cowboy Bebop, whereas the 2011 remake embraced more fantastical elements.
Hunter x Hunter fan reception
The series ranks as the 10th highest rated anime on MyAnimeList with an impressive 9.04/10 score. Similarly, AniList places it eighth with an 8.90/10 rating. Critics have praised its tactical battles, intricate power system, plus mature storytelling.
Indeed, many fans appreciate how Hunter x Hunter avoids typical shonen tropes like power-up screaming contests, instead focusing on strategic combat.
Hunter x Hunter cultural impact
Hunter x Hunter has profoundly influenced contemporary anime. Creators of hits like Tokyo Ghoul, One Punch Man, Naruto, plus Jujutsu Kaisen have acknowledged Togashi’s work as inspiration. The manga has achieved tremendous commercial success with over 84 million copies in circulation worldwide.
The series has earned recognition for exploring complex themes including human nature, genocide, plus the consequences of revenge.
Furthermore, its unique power system, Nen, has been praised for allowing an almost inexhaustible range of combat strategies.
Bleach: Thousand-Year Blood War
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Rising triumphantly after a decade-long hiatus, Bleach: Thousand-Year Blood War has secured its position among the highest rated anime of all time with its exceptional return to screens.
After the original anime ended abruptly in 2012, this long-awaited continuation has ignited fresh excitement among new and veteran fans alike.
Bleach plot summary
The Thousand-Year Blood War arc represents the final chapter of Tite Kubo’s supernatural saga. Set 19 months after Aizen’s defeat, the story follows protagonist Ichigo Kurosaki as he confronts the Wandenreich, a hidden empire of Quincies led by their ruler Yhwach.
This powerful antagonist seeks to eliminate Soul Reapers and reshape the world according to his vision.
The narrative unfolds across multiple cours, beginning with “The Blood Warfare,” followed by “The Separation,” “The Conflict,” and the upcoming finale “The Calamity” scheduled for 2026.
Throughout these segments, viewers witness epic battles between Soul Reapers and the formidable Sternritter warriors, culminating in a climactic confrontation with Yhwach himself.
Bleach animation & art style
At this point, TYBW stands as not just the best-animated Bleach season but arguably one of Studio Pierrot’s finest productions ever. The animation quality remains consistently excellent throughout, with every significant battle receiving the attention it deserves.
The characters appear exactly as Kubo’s illustrations come to life, with Soul Society portrayed both as a stunning afterlife and a bleak battlefield. In contrast to the original series, the censorship has been significantly reduced, allowing wounds to be depicted as gruesomely as they were in the manga.
Also read: 12 Perfect Shonen Anime for First-Time Watchers in 2025
Bleach fan reception
The third cour of TYBW achieved an impressive 9.4 rating on IMDb, making it one of the highest rated seasons in television history. First thing to remember is that this resurrection marked a triumphant return for a franchise that left an indelible mark on anime culture.
Bleach cultural impact
After all, Bleach’s journey from its initial rise to its recent resurgence demonstrates not only its ability to captivate audiences but also its enduring legacy in shaping modern anime.
The anime’s return offers Kubo a unique opportunity to retell the manga’s ending more satisfyingly, incorporating elements he couldn’t include originally due to health issues.
This revival includes expanded content, new flashbacks showing Yhwach’s past, additional scenes of Ichigo’s training, and previously unrevealed abilities—all enhancements that have delighted longtime fans of this top ranked anime.
Death Note
Image Source: Death Note Wiki – Fandom
Widely regarded as a psychological masterpiece, Death Note continues to mesmerize viewers years after its release, consistently ranking among the highest rated anime of all time for its intellectual depth and moral complexity.
Death Note plot summary
The narrative revolves around Light Yagami, a brilliant high school student who discovers a supernatural notebook dropped by Ryuk, a Shinigami (death god). This “Death Note” grants Light the power to kill anyone by writing their name while picturing their face.
Initially targeting criminals to create a crime-free utopia, Light adopts the alias “Kira” and embarks on a path toward becoming “the god of the new world”.
His actions attract the attention of L, a mysterious detective determined to stop him, igniting an intricate psychological chess match between two genius minds.
Death Note animation & art style
Produced by Madhouse and directed by Tetsurō Araki in 2006, the animation showcases meticulous attention to detail. Objects appear remarkably realistic, almost photographic in quality.
The series employs a dark, muted color palette that perfectly complements its somber themes. Character expressions subtly change throughout the story, reflecting internal transformations.
Death Note fan reception
The 37-episode series has amassed a devoted following. Fans particularly appreciate its intellectual battles, moral ambiguity, and absence of typical anime tropes. Many viewers report still contemplating the show’s ethical questions years after watching.
Death Note cultural impact
Beyond entertainment, Death Note explores profound questions about justice, morality, and power. The franchise expanded into various adaptations including films and video games.
However, most fans advise against the Netflix adaptation, noting its significant deviation from the original material.
Cowboy Bebop
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Created by director Shinichiro Watanabe, Cowboy Bebop cements its legacy among the highest rated anime of all time through its groundbreaking fusion of genres and artistic innovation.
Cowboy Bebop plot summary
Set in 2071, the narrative follows a group of bounty hunters aboard the spaceship Bebop. The crew includes ex-hitman Spike Spiegel, former police officer Jet Black, con artist Faye Valentine, eccentric hacker Edward, and genetically engineered Corgi Ein.
Throughout their adventures chasing bounties, each character confronts unresolved issues from their past. The main storyline focuses on Spike’s deadly rivalry with his former syndicate partner Vicious.
Cowboy Bebop animation & art style
Visually, the series showcases Toshihiro Kawamoto’s distinctive character designs featuring sleek, angular esthetics. The animation blends multiple genres – western, noir, science fiction – creating a unique visual identity.
Backgrounds display meticulous detail, from bustling urban landscapes to desolate space settings. Ultimately, its cinematic techniques draw heavily from classic cinema.
Cowboy Bebop fan reception
Upon release, critics hailed it as a masterpiece. The series maintains a perfect 100% rating on Rotten Tomatoes. Fans especially praise its sophisticated writing, movie-quality animation, and Yoko Kanno’s legendary jazz soundtrack.
Cowboy Bebop cultural impact
Notably, this series became the first anime aired on Adult Swim in 2001, introducing countless viewers to anime. Beyond entertainment, it explores existentialism, loneliness, and past influences. The show’s genre-defying approach inspired filmmakers like Quentin Tarantino.
Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End
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Arriving unexpectedly to claim its spot among the highest rated anime of all time, Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End offers a refreshingly different approach to fantasy storytelling through its examination of mortality, relationships, and the passage of time.
Frieren plot summary
The story uniquely begins after the hero’s journey ends. Frieren, an elven mage who helped defeat the Demon King, returns to find her human companions aged dramatically while she remains unchanged.
Following Himmel’s death, she embarks on a journey north to Heaven, where souls rest, hoping to reconnect with him.
Along the way, she travels with her apprentice Fern and warrior Stark, confronting her regrets about not truly knowing her former companions.
Frieren animation & art style
Produced by Madhouse and directed by Keiichirō Saitō, the series boasts exceptional animation quality.
The visuals feature a soft, watercolor-like style that beautifully complements both peaceful settings and emotional moments. Scenic backgrounds are meticulously detailed, creating immersive landscapes that enhance the storytelling.
Frieren fan reception
Currently holding a perfect 100% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes, Frieren has dominated as the top-rated anime on both MyAnimeList and Anime News Network since early 2024. Fans praise its thoughtful pacing and deep emotional themes.
Frieren cultural impact
By October 2024, the manga had sold over 30 million copies worldwide, demonstrating its commercial success. The series fundamentally reshapes fantasy anime by focusing on what happens after the adventure ends.
Its unique perspective on immortality and relationships has established new standards for emotional storytelling.
Vinland Saga
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Earning recognition as another highest rated anime of all time, Vinland Saga stands out for its character-driven narrative and historical setting based on Viking times. The series explores themes of revenge, violence, and ultimately, pacifism.
Vinland Saga plot summary
The story follows Thorfinn, a young Icelander who seeks revenge against Askeladd, the mercenary who killed his father. Initially working as a bloodthirsty Viking for Askeladd’s band, Thorfinn’s life changes dramatically after key events in the first season.
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The second season shifts focus to his life as a slave who has lost the will to live. Throughout this journey, he befriends another slave named Einar and gradually learns about restraint, facing his violent past.
Vinland Saga animation & art style
Despite being produced by different studios—Wit Studio for season one (2019) and MAPPA for season two (2023)—the series maintains consistency through director Shūhei Yabuta and writer Hiroshi Seko. The animation faithfully captures Makoto Yukimura’s detailed manga artwork.
Season two notably expanded on Thorfinn’s internal struggles through nightmares alternating his past violence with his current slave persona.
Vinland Saga fan reception
The anime has received critical acclaim from websites like IGN and Anime News Network. Fans praise the character development, particularly Thorfinn’s transformation from revenge-seeker to pacifist. Many viewers appreciate how the series portrays Vikings realistically yet thoughtfully.
Vinland Saga cultural impact
In 2009, the manga won the Grand Prize in the Japan Media Arts awards. By August 2022, it had over 7 million copies in circulation worldwide.
The story draws elements from historical accounts including The Flateyjarbók and The Saga of Erik the Red. Regardless of its historical setting, the series resonates deeply through its exploration of violence, revenge, and ultimately redemption.
Dragon Ball Z
Image Source: Dragon Ball Wiki – Fandom
A cornerstone in the highest rated anime of all time collection, Dragon Ball Z transformed the landscape of anime upon its debut in 1989.
This legendary series fundamentally shaped the expectations and tropes of modern shonen.
Dragon Ball Z plot summary
The story continues Goku’s adventures as an adult, revealing his origin as a Saiyan warrior from another planet. This revelation marks a dramatic shift from the original Dragon Ball’s tone.
Throughout 291 episodes, viewers witness epic battles against increasingly powerful foes—from Frieza to Cell to Majin Buu. The narrative employs seven strategic time skips, allowing characters to develop realistically across years.
Dragon Ball Z animation & art style
The visual style evolved dramatically, transitioning from the original Dragon Ball’s rounded esthetics to more muscular, angular designs. By the Frieza Saga, characters displayed dramatically bulkier physiques, reflecting the show’s focus on intense battles.
Though occasionally inconsistent due to multiple animation teams, this distinctive look became instantly recognizable worldwide.
Dragon Ball Z fan reception
Fans across generations embrace DBZ as a cultural touchstone. Many western viewers credit it as their gateway into anime. The dedicated fanbase spans multiple age groups, creating a unique multi-generational phenomenon.
Dragon Ball Z cultural impact
Beyond entertainment, DBZ pioneered numerous storytelling techniques adapted by countless successors. It normalized genre-blending, popularized transformation sequences, plus established the rival archetype through Vegeta. Both Naruto and One Piece directly emulated its time-skip approach.
Steins;Gate
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Standing apart from conventional sci-fi narratives, Steins;Gate redefines time travel storytelling and secures its position as one of the highest rated anime of all time through scientific precision and emotional depth.
Steins;Gate plot summary
The narrative centers on Rintaro Okabe, a self-proclaimed “mad scientist” who accidentally discovers how to send text messages to the past using a modified microwave.
Upon witnessing neuroscience prodigy Kurisu Makise’s apparent murder, Okabe experiences a phenomenon where only he remembers the original timeline.
As he and his friends experiment with “D-Mails” (DeLorean mails) that alter history, they attract attention from SERN, an organization secretly researching time travel.
Steins;Gate animation & art style
Visually, the series employs a dark, muted color palette that perfectly complements its somber themes. The animation balances realism with stylized elements, utilizing visual motifs like clocks and gears to symbolize the passage of time.
Although lacking flashy action sequences, the show excels through powerful direction, tense close-ups, and meaningful still frames.
Steins;Gate fan reception
Critics have showered the series with acclaim, maintaining a perfect 100% rating on Rotten Tomatoes. Fans particularly value its intricate plot twists, well-written characters, and realistic approach to time travel mechanics.
On Metacritic, it ranks as both the seventh highest-rated PC game of 2014 and the highest-rated PS Vita game of 2015.
Steins;Gate cultural impact
Beyond entertainment, Steins;Gate explores profound questions about fate, causality, and the consequences of altering the past.
The franchise originated with the concept of “99% science and 1% fantasy”. Ultimately, its meticulous incorporation of real-world scientific theories has established it as the quintessential time travel anime.
One Punch Man
Image Source: One-Punch Man Wiki – Fandom
One Punch Man stands out among the highest rated anime of all time through its brilliant subversion of superhero conventions, offering both parody and thrilling action.
One Punch Man plot summary
The series centers on Saitama, an unassuming bald hero who can defeat any opponent with a single punch. This overwhelming power has left him perpetually bored, searching for worthy challenges.
Uniquely, he treats heroism as merely a hobby while focusing on mundane concerns like grocery sales. The story takes place in a world where heroes work for the Hero Association, which ranks them by strength and popularity.
One Punch Man animation & art style
Originally created in 2009 as a crude webcomic by ONE, the series was redrawn by Yusuke Murata in 2012 with polished artwork. The 2015 anime adaptation by Madhouse featured spectacular animation that captivated viewers.
Essentially, the animation quality was so impressive that studio staff worried they couldn’t match the manga’s detailed art. Season 2’s shift to J.C. Staff resulted in noticeable visual quality decline.
One Punch Man fan reception
Upon release, the series topped the New York Times Manga Best Seller list and earned an Eisner Award nomination. Furthermore, season one maintains a perfect 100% score on Rotten Tomatoes. Season two received mixed reviews primarily due to animation changes.
One Punch Man cultural impact
The series fundamentally reshapes superhero narratives by questioning what happens when ultimate power is achieved. Through characters like Mumen Rider, it explores true heroism beyond results. This approach resonates deeply with audiences seeking fresh perspectives on familiar genres.
Naruto: Shippuden
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Also read: Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End Complete Review
Naruto: Shippuden exemplifies long-form storytelling excellence, marking its place among the highest rated anime of all time through its evolution of characters and themes.
Naruto: Shippuden plot summary
Serving as a direct sequel to the original Naruto series, Shippuden follows Naruto Uzumaki after extensive training as he continues his quest to become Hokage. The story premiered in February 2007 and concluded in March 2017, spanning an impressive decade-long run.
Throughout this journey, Naruto confronts the mysterious Akatsuki organization while developing his ninja abilities. The narrative expands beyond village-centric issues to encompass global conflicts and competing ideologies.
Naruto: Shippuden animation & art style
Produced by Studio Pierrot and directed by Hayato Date, the animation quality evolved significantly from its predecessor. The visual style employs bold lines that transition into darker tones as the series progresses, symbolically reflecting more mature themes.
Fight sequences became increasingly dynamic, with notable battles meticulously choreographed to showcase fluid movements. Meanwhile, certain episodes feature different art styles with non-thick character outlines and more slender human physiques.
Naruto: Shippuden fan reception
Critics have showered the series with praise, particularly for its character development and emotional depth. Fans connect deeply with its themes of bonds, hard work, and surpassing limitations. Moreover, many viewers consider Shippuden superior to its predecessor.
Naruto: Shippuden cultural impact
By 2024, the franchise had been licensed in 90 countries. Fundamentally, Naruto helped establish Crunchyroll as a legitimate streaming platform when they acquired exclusive streaming rights.
Besides entertainment, the series profoundly influenced discussions on friendship, leadership, and perseverance.
Code Geass
Image Source: Code Geass Wiki – Fandom
Blending political intrigue with mecha action, Code Geass has captivated viewers worldwide, earning its reputation among the highest rated anime of all time through its morally complex storyline and unforgettable ending.
Code Geass plot summary
The narrative follows Lelouch vi Britannia, an exiled prince seeking revenge against the Holy Britannian Empire for his mother’s murder and sister’s injuries. After encountering a mysterious girl named C.C., he gains a supernatural power called “Geass” that allows him to command anyone once through direct eye contact.
Henceforth, he creates the alter ego “Zero” to lead a rebellion against Britannia while navigating a complex relationship with his childhood friend Suzaku, who believes change should come peacefully rather than through violence.
Code Geass animation & art style
The series features distinctive character designs by renowned manga artist group CLAMP, known for creating tall, thin characters with unique proportions.
Sunrise’s animation team, led by character designer Takahiro Kimura, meticulously studied CLAMP’s style to maintain consistency throughout the series. Additionally, the mecha battles showcase realistic robot movements without relying on CGI.
Code Geass fan reception
Code Geass maintains a perfect 100% rating on Rotten Tomatoes. Fans particularly praise the series for its brilliant character development, thrilling cliffhangers, and strategic battles.
Code Geass cultural impact
Fundamentally, the series explores deep themes including political ethics, imperialism, and the cost of revolution. Its ending is widely considered among the best in anime history, delivering a surprising yet satisfying conclusion.
Jujutsu Kaisen
Image Source: VIZ
Bursting onto the scene with dark fantasy elements, Jujutsu Kaisen rapidly established itself as one of the highest rated anime of all time through its unique blend of horror and action, earning the prestigious Crunchyroll Anime of the Year Award for 2023.
Jujutsu Kaisen plot summary
The narrative revolves around Itadori Yuji, a teenager who accidentally becomes host to Ryomen Sukuna, the King of Curses, after ingesting a cursed finger. Subsequently, Yuji joins Tokyo Metropolitan Magic Technical College to learn jujutsu sorcery.
Throughout his journey, he struggles with existential questions about sacrifice and purpose. Fundamentally, the series explores a world where cursed spirits born from negative emotions prey on humanity.
Jujutsu Kaisen animation & art style
Studio MAPPA brought creator Gege Akutami’s manga masterfully to life. The animation features fluid movement, impactful visual effects, and meticulous attention to fight choreography.
Presently, the series is acclaimed for its consistent quality, with stunning scenes like Choso and Yuji’s battle showcasing nearly flawless animation.
Visual techniques include strategic camera movement and strong silhouettes that enhance readability.
Jujutsu Kaisen fan reception
Undoubtedly, the series has amassed a passionate fanbase. Some viewers suggest it will become a timeless classic alongside Naruto and Dragon Ball Z. Critics praise its balance between humor and horror, alongside complex character development.
Jujutsu Kaisen cultural impact
Beyond entertainment, the series secured impressive merchandise collaborations with established brands including Dolce&Gabbana, Uniqlo, and Fortnite.
Its cultural reach extended to a Bleacher Report advertisement during the 2024 Super Bowl. Overall, Jujutsu Kaisen distinguishes itself through meaningful relationships between characters that feel realistic and relatable.
Conclusion
The world of anime continues to grow at an incredible pace. These 15 highest rated series stand as prime examples of what makes this medium so special. From Attack on Titan’s dark fantasy world to Jujutsu Kaisen’s fresh take on horror-action, each series offers something unique to fans.
What truly sets these top-ranked anime apart? Most notably, they all tell compelling stories with unforgettable characters. Whether through Steins;Gate’s mind-bending time travel or Frieren’s contemplative look at mortality, these shows prove anime can explore complex themes while remaining accessible.
Animation quality also plays a crucial role in their success. Studios like MAPPA, Madhouse, and Wit have pushed boundaries to create visually stunning experiences. Cowboy Bebop pioneered cinematic techniques while newer series like Bleach: Thousand-Year Blood War showcase how far animation has evolved.
Fan reception ultimately determines which series earn their place among the elite. These 15 anime didn’t just entertain—they created passionate communities and sparked discussions that continue years after their release. Many maintain perfect scores on review sites, a testament to their lasting impact.
Cultural influence extends far beyond entertainment. Dragon Ball Z shaped modern shonen tropes, Death Note challenged viewers with moral dilemmas, and One Piece broke sales records worldwide. These series transcended their Japanese origins to become global phenomena.
Finding your next anime obsession has never been easier. Streaming platforms now offer immediate access to both classics and newcomers. Whether you prefer epic battles, psychological thrillers, or emotional journeys, this list provides excellent starting points for your anime adventure.
Actually, the beauty of these highest rated anime lies in their diversity. They span decades, genres, and styles, yet each delivers exceptional storytelling that resonates with viewers. Their continued popularity proves great anime, like all great art, stands the test of time.
