Top 10 Animes of all Times You Should Not Miss

 WHAT IS ANIME AND WHY ANIME IS   MADE        

The term anime can be new to many Western audiences. However, in the last few decades, it has made a breakthrough infiltrating areas of mainstream entertainment. Where did it come from and how is it made? Before we dive into that, let’s define anime.

The term anime [a·nuh·mei] is a Japanese colloquialism used as an abbreviation for the term “animation.” Generally in Japan, the word anime (written アニメ) is synonymous with animation of any kind from anywhere. Internationally, however, anime is typically referred to as animation that is produced from Japan. The distinction between anime and cartoons is more cultural than it is technical and its origins date over 100 years ago.

ANIME IN WESTERN CULTURE:

Overtime, anime has made its way into Western culture. Despite not being at the heart of mainstream entertainment, it has found such a large Western audience that Western animation productions have created shows in the same style. Shows like The Boondocks and Avatar: The Last Airbender are American made shows with Japanese anime influence.

This brings up a popular debate: “Are American cartoons that look like anime considered anime?” While the answer to this is still debated among fans, the common consensus is that anime refers solely to Japanese produced projects. However, the line blurs as American and Japanese artists continue to collaborate on new shows and movies.

 

As this video points out, whether or not certain shows can be dubbed the “anime” is arbitrary. What is important is the recognition of it as an incredibly entertaining and powerful storytelling medium. 

Its Japanese origins and influences have made it a unique form of storytelling that has drawn international interest. Trailblazers like Hayao Miyazaki, Makoto Shinkai, and Satoshi Kon have not only created the best anime films, but have created some of the best animated films ever. 

No matter what interests you have or genres you like, odds are there is an anime show or movie out there for you.

TOP ANIMES OF ALL TIME

There are some series, however, that have remained fan favorites even years later. These are the shows that are still actively discussed among circles, with some even continuing to this day. These notable animes 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 newb just wanting to get your feet wet, here are some of the most popular selections from the genre.

 Dragon Ball Z (Completed)

Dragon Ball Z  is widely regarded as one of the greatest anime series of all time, and a large part of that is due to its action. DBZ features many of the best fights in anime history, including Goku's legendary fight with Frieza and Gohan's bout with Perfect Cell. In a series that is considered one of the greats for its action and combat alone, it should come as no surprise to anyone that it features some truly beautiful animated sequences. 

A generation of millennials was shaped by the enormous Dragon Ball franchise. Like the majority of anime, Dragon Ball began as a manga series. Early in the 1980s, Akira Toriyama produced this one. Dragon Ball, the first episode, was released in 1986. The young Goku was the subject of the anime's opening sequence. Dragon Ball Z, the following series, debuted in 1989. It happens five years after the first installment's conclusion. The main characters of this sequel were a young adult Goku and his son Gohan.

The martial arts are the main source of inspiration for this anime, and there are some very amazing multi-episode fights that viewers may enjoy. This anime series is full of action while yet being accessible, from battling aliens to defending Earth from evil.

One PIECE (still Ongoing)

Eiichiro Oda's One Piece is one of the most popular shonen series in anime history. One Piece’s incredible popularity positioned it as a part of the previous “Big Three.” The story follows Monkey D. Luffy on his journey to fulfill his dream of becoming the Pirate King.

The first season of the One Piece anime came out in 1999, and now, 24 years later, it's still ongoing. This massive anime, comprised of well over 1000 episodes, is one of the longest-running anime of all time. Based on Eichiro Oda's manga of the same name, this anime is set in a world where humans and other mythical creatures all co-exist together. The story mainly focuses on the protagonist Luffy and his pirate crew, but there are many other different arcs and plots since the anime is so long. The manga is said to end sometime in 2024 or 2025, so if someone wants to start watching or reading it, they will have plenty of episodes to binge.

The long-running anime has a surprisingly large and dedicated fanbase. The show is easily one of the most-watched anime of all time. In fact, the anime is so popular that Netflix made a live-action One Piece show that has been a hit with fans and critics. If you have not started with One Piece yet, this is the perfect time to start watching, as you can also watch the live-action series after finishing the anime.

NARUTO SHIPPUDEN

The world of Japanese animation is bigger and better than ever and the anime community can debate all day long about what the single best anime series is and why. Granted, this is a subjective field and series from different genres can be difficult to compare, but a convincing case can be made for some of the biggest titles, such as Masashi Kishimoto's Naruto.

Naruto focuses on a young boy who is shunned by society but grows up to be one of the most successful and strongest ninjas. The mischievous but optimistic protagonist, Naruto Uzumaki, is a beloved anime character based on the manga by Masashi Kishimoto. Naruto is a character who is absolutely loyal and hopeful. His passion and never-giving-up persona inspire young audiences while teaching them life lessons in the process.

After watching the original Naruto, the next obvious step would be to watch its counterpart, Naruto: Shippuden. Both parts focus on brilliant character developments and fascinating storylines and, in turn, ensure that the viewer is fully submerged in the wide world of ninjas. Those still wanting more can check out the various Naruto movies that have come out as well.

Tokyo Ghoul

Tokyo Ghoul is a favorite among the anime faithful. Its tragic tale of the young, innocent Ken Kaneki pulled at the heartstrings of many who connected with his involvement in a literal identity war. On the other hand, the anime's promise and delivery of bloody battles and sadistic scenes attracted many other viewers.

Given its consistent season orders, massive manga sales, and the sheer number of zipper masks at any anime convention, it's no secret that the war between humanity and ghouls has drawn quite a sizeable crowd. The manga released its final chapter way back in 2014, but Tokyo Ghoul fans might just end up enjoying other anime like this one.

 The Tokyo Ghoul franchise has remained consistently popular for over a decade, and for good reason. This anime's delightfully bizarre concept, combined with a remarkable sense of character development, has made it truly iconic. As such, we've revamped this list with some more information regarding anime series that Tokyo Ghoul fans might enjoy.

TOKYO GHOUL ORDER

THIS IS THE ORDER FOR WATCHING TOKYO GHOUL

1.TOKYO GHOUL (SEASON 1 )

2.TOKYO GHOUL (SEASON 2)

3.TOKYO GHOUL RE (Call To Exsist)

4.TOKYO GHOUL RE (SEASON 2)

My Hero Academia

My Hero Academia stands as one of the most popular and beloved shonen anime series of the modern age; many fans believe it to be the best modern anime overall, of any genre. While the concept of "best" anime is debatable in the anime community, powerhouse series like My Hero Academia are strong contenders for #1 for a variety of reasons.

Kohei Horikoshi's released the original My Hero Academia manga series in 2015, which soon got its own anime adaptation, which quickly spread the word of My Hero Academia. By now, this hit shonen series is a giant in the anime world and fans can cite any number of reasons it is definitely the best anime a fan could possibly watch. My Hero Academia has a lot to offer.

With brilliant character developments, fascinating storylines, and a heavy emphasis on the idea of good vs. evil, this superhero anime has won a large fan base because of its positive life lessons. There are multiple reasons why this modern-day anime has become successful, but it is definitely notable that the characters, the visuals, and the soundtracks have allowed My Hero Academia to be one of the best animes out today.

Demon Slayer ( Kimetsu No Yaiba )

Demon Slayer is the 2019 anime adaptation of the eponymous manga written and illustrated by Koyoharu Gotouge The television show rapidly had tremendous success and popularity. Demon Slayer became one of the new "Big Three" anime series due to its compelling plot and spectacular visuals. As the lone survivor of her family's demon attack, Tanjiro Kamado's sister turns into a demon, and Demon Slayer follows him on his quest to bring her back to humanity.

Fans are consistently blown away by Demon Slayer’s stunning animation. Stills of nature – trees, running water, fire, and snow look like a cross between animation and real life. As Studio Ufotable’s first mainstream project, Demon Slayer promptly helped Ufotable gain widespread recognition. The studio uses CGI to deliver dynamic action sequences, colorful imagery, poetic illustrations, and fluid 3D style graphics.                     

After his first encounter with the Hashira demon slayer Giyu Tomioka, Tanjiro is set on a path to join the Demon Slayer Corps. As a demon slayer, Tanjiro and Nezuko embark on several dangerous missions in order to keep the world safe and ultimately defeat the Demon King Muzan who created all demons and murdered their family. Demon Slayer is an incredible anime that’s revered by many fans as the best shonen series in anime history.

Demon Slayer's exciting plot captivated fans immediately. Tanjiro’s journey is both inspiring and terrifying. Watching Tanjiro’s inability to give up on Nezuko while fighting to keep others safe, puts viewers on the edge of their seats. Each demon that Tanjiro and the other demon slayers interact with has their own intriguing backstory.

Aside from Tanjiro’s enemies, fans become attached to the friends he makes along the way. Giyu, Tengen, Kyoguro, Inosuke, and Zenitsu are fan favorites for different reasons. Additionally, audiences can’t wait to witness the other Hashira in battle, meet the upper 12 demons, and finally discover more about Muzan.

ONE PUNCH MAN

One-Punch Man combines comedy with the action-packed battles that define shonen anime. The series follows Saitama, an average guy who wants to become a hero. It's a pretty standard premise, but Saitama turned himself into one of the most overpowered characters of all time after three years of training that also resulted in total hair loss.

Saitama became so powerful that he could defeat all of his enemies with a single punch, earning him the titular nickname "One-Punch Man." Unfortunately, Saitama becomes bored since it's so easy for him to defeat anyone in a battle, meaning the real battles must be fought within his own mind as he seeks to make something of Himself

HUNTER X HUNTER

Yoshihiro Togashi's Hunter x Hunter is a classic. The series is about Gon Freecs, a young boy who runs away from home to take the Hunter Exams. He hopes that by passing the exams and becoming a Hunter, he'll finally find his long-lost father, Ging.

Along the way, he meets Killua, Kurapika, and Leorio. The quartet becomes friends as soon as they meet, and they go on many adventures together. From battling it out in Heaven's Arena to fighting the Phantom Trope in Yorknew City, these four see it all.

FULL METAL ALCHEMIST (BROTHERHOOD)

Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood is a classic anime that almost everyone has undoubtedly heard about, anime fan or otherwise. The anime follows Edward and Alphonse Elric, two brothers who use alchemy to revive their mother. Unfortunately, the experiment went horribly wrong, and Edward lost a limb, while Alphonse almost died, but his soul remained on Earth after being bound to a suit of armor. After that, the brothers go on their journey to find the Philosopher's Stone, and soon find themselves in a deadly world of schemes, homunculi, and political intrigue.

ATTACK ON TITANS

Attack On Titan is a cultural phenomenon that stands out from other shonen anime. It challenged its audience, garnering equal amounts of admiration and controversy over the years. This is one of the best anime of all time partly because it elegantly blends familiar genres like fantasy, horror, and even mecha anime into a single slick package.

Attack on Titan follows Eren Yeager, a teenage boy who swore to eradicate every single one of the man-eating Titans, and underwent extensive training to achieve this bloody goal. From there, the world continually becomes murkier as more truth about the origin of Titans emerges. At its core, Attack On Titan is a criticism of war and has strong anti-fascist undertones.