Top 100 Anime Series Of All Time

Simply the greatest for an outstanding cast of characters, triumphant soundtrack, spectacular action, and it can be watched either dubbed or subbed, both versions are sublime. Despite initially being episodic in nature underlying storyline rears its head and proves to thoroughly engaging, you've just got to give this anime the opening five episodes, don't make a judgement call after just one episode. See it out and you will be greatly rewarded.

One of the greatest all round anime ever. With comedy, romance, tragedy, sci-fi, and even a little action blended perfectly together. It featured an original premise and a satisfying conclusion. The character of Mad Scientist will become one of your favourites. Since it involves time travel the first episode is seriously confusing, however by the end of episode three you'll be fully clued in, essential viewing, don't drop it! The best time travel anime ever made.

The 4 episode OVA prequel to the original Kenshin anime. This anime involves masterful storytelling, Kenshin the main character is given a rich backstory, the anime plays out always rising, never falters, zero filler, a rich and rewarding experience. The greatest samurai anime ever made. Despite only being four episodes long it feels very complete and those who want to see more of Kenshin (which you will) can check out the sequel (original anime) series.

This series has perhaps the greatest character development of any anime ever made, you become attached to each character who each has well fleshed out personalities comprised of individual qualities, flaws, and ideals. If you hold merit for engaging plot, are exhilarated by action scenes with large doses of violence and don't abhor nudity this is definitely the anime series for you. It's one of the best anime I've ever seen, the only thing that holds it back as an anime series is one tedious flaw, you'll have to watch it, to find out for yourself.

This anime initially can be confusing because of the huge, overwhelming cast of characters but persevere! It’s a series that’s hard to describe without spoiling it. If you like hardcore action, suspense, and fantasy. You will love it. Issac and Miria are my favourite anime duo ever! However Baccano! does feature some demented characters and plenty of graphic violence. If you like Elfen Lied you will adore Baccano! P.S. The team that made this later went onto make Durarara!! which was just a modern set, watered down, rehash of Baccano! Basically if you watched Durarara!! and haven't seen this you should look in a mirror and slap yourself :P (This anime requires a minimum trial period of five episodes).

Ask people for the most beautiful anime ever made and the vast majority will reply, Mushi-Shi. It's unique in the fact that the entire anime centers almost entirely on one character. The scenery is beautiful, however this is an episodic anime, if you need an anime that continues on from week to week this may not be for you. Without spoiling anything about the story I'll just say this is an anime to be savoured, perhaps one episode each night. The most magical, relaxing anime I've ever seen. Simply wonderful.

This is a fascinating telling of Queen Marie Antoinette's rise and fall as ruler of France. This anime involved murder, suicide, betrayal, cross dressing and even a rape attempt. It was utterly groundbreaking and still is, the cover art is totally unfitting with the mature and serious nature of this anime. It's a high drama/romance/history anime.... it actually centers on a character called Lady Oscar, I almost dropped it during the early episodes but didn't and I was greatly rewarded, it has one of the best anime endings ever. It does take awhile to really take off and grip you however it's well worth the wait. It's an anime for those interested in a brilliant plot and exceptional character development.

This anime takes some 25 of its total 110 episodes to really grasp the viewer, however those with patience are treated to arguably the greatest anime ever made. I seriously don't want to spoil anything about this masterpiece of an anime, I'll just say this is one if not thee best space opera anime ever made. Are you tired of stagnant and hollow characters? Are you tired of pointless fanservice? Are you tired of watching anime with no content or appeal for the intellectual viewer? If the answer to these questions is yes, you must watch this anime. You won't be disappointed.

Wow, just wow. It dropped my jaw the first time I watched it, as a guy I normally like war movies, shows, anime however they usually glamorise war. This anime is the exact opposite, I did really love it but because it had a magnificent, strong anti-war message. I won't say much as I don't want to spoil anything but this is a very short anime and certainly worthwhile viewing.

I previously had the 90s incarnation of Hunter x Hunter on this list. While both are almost identical in dialogue and scene by scene, I've switched in this newer version as it's what the vast majority of watchers have placed their valuable viewing time towards. While both versions are hugely recommendable, this version is more complete into one bundle. With the original Hunter x Hunter being split over a series and multiple OVA's. Anyway it's a fantastic anime and one that genuinely can be considered a staple for the genre.

Just an incredibly sweet and touching story of a man trying to raise a young child single-handedly. This anime was such a breath of fresh air to the medium, completely out of the norm and perhaps all the more enjoyable for that fact. It features a slightly unique art style that a casual anime viewer will not be accustomed to but by the second episode you will have adjusted. It's a very short anime but exceptionally good.

Everything that needs to be said about this anime has already been said and is known to pretty much every anime viewer. If you've never seen an anime then Rurouni Kenshin is a good place to start. It's a quality all rounder, it has action, comedy, romance... there's enough there to keep everybody entertained. It has a solid story and is well executed, the cast of characters are extremely likable. Perhaps the greatest strength of this series is that it doesn't have any glaring flaws.

No question Monster deserves to be on this list. A real question would be, why hasn't Monster placed higher? Perhaps because this truly is a love or hate anime. While I really enjoyed it, I know a lot of people whose opinion I respect that offered well reasoned arguments for not particularly holding fondness for this anime. I would say this is arguably the greatest thriller anime ever made, it's so tense and suspenseful in scenes. It has a brilliant story, shame that it's a slow burner and that many people drop it before it gets good. Putting some filler eps aside and the fact it takes 20+ episodes to really draw you in, don't drop this! It's definitely a worthwhile watch.

This anime has a refreshingly unique and compelling story. Without spoiling too much it's about a character that gets into debt and has to try and gamble his way out. Maybe I'm not selling it enough but I really can't say a whole lot or I'll ruin the story, it does have a very interesting concept. The worst thing about this anime is the art style, casual viewers may not be able to cope with this. For those who manage with the art there is a great story. Highly recommended to fans of Akagi and One Outs.

Maison Ikkoku is the finest romance anime ever made, in terms of story structure, character development and emotional depth. If you look over this because it's of older animation then you really don't know what an incredible experience you've missed out on. Yes at 96 episodes it is long for the genre. However the story spans several years and this allows for real character and relationship progression. It is one of the funniest and most charming anime I've ever seen. It managed to turn a big time action and science fiction fan like me into a believer that there is great romance series out there. This remains the finest example of a believable romance story in anime. Do not miss it. P.S. This anime continually gets better as it progresses, the final 15 episodes of this anime are greater than any other romantic/comedy ever made. It delivers the most spectacular ending that you could possibly want in a rom/com. See this one out, enjoy the ride and I guarantee this will become a firm favourite of yours.

Vinland Saga was a breath of fresh air with its different setting, decent production values and surprising solidity. It features some good action scenes, steady build up, and adequate world building. Anyone looking for a decent action anime with a Viking theme should give this a go. While complaints can be put forth towards the MC Thorfinn none can for Askeladd who is perhaps the best anime character in the last 10 years.

This is one of the most fun, charming and endearing series to ever grace anime. The character of Lupin is one of the most magnificent and memorable in the medium, he's a terrific hero despite the fact he's a thief. Lupin is the source that inspired such characters as Spike from Cowboy Bebop. Lupin is the epitomy of cool that we all strive for. Good crime anime is hard to come by and this is the best as we watch the remarkable exploits of Lupin and his gang. I must also mention that greats of anime Hayao Miyazaki and Isao Takahata both worked on this series. It's not just a significant series in anime history, it's also incredibly entertaining.

I finally settled on where to place this anime, most of you will be wondering why so low? I can't go into elaborate details as I don't want to spoil anything for people who haven't watched this yet. So what are Death Note's good points? It's often gripping and thrilling. However when most people remember Death Note they tend to judge it on its early stages, ignoring all the flaws throughout. Lets just say after a certain character left this series and was replaced with two mediocre characters, the show went greatly downhill. Well that's my view anyway. However I can't deny the popularity and success of this series, the first 2/3's in my opinion are by far its best. It's a quality suspense/thriller and in my opinion worthwhile viewing. If you haven't seen it you must be living under a rock, check it out and see what the fuss is about.

This anime better known as Irresponsible Captain Tylor is the funniest Sci-Fi anime ever created. Lovable rogue Tylor is nothing short of a hilarious goof who stumbles through life with what must be said, a lot of incredible luck. If you're a fan of sudden girlfriend anime then look no further. Just watch the first episode of this, I guarantee you will be in stitches and instantly hooked. It's a series that once you start it, you have to finish it. It's 26 episodes of sheer brilliance.

This series came about due to the success of the 1995 movie Ghost In The Shell. The anime tv series deviates in feel to the original movie, it doesn't quite have the same dark tone, however it's a great watch in its own right. This anime has exceptional production values, a strong soundtrack but its greatest appeal is its premise. The philosophical questions it raises, ethical debates, realistic action and plausible futuristic setting make this a must see in my opinion. Certainly not for everyone, an intelligent anime for those who appreciate that sort of show. P.S. The Wachoswski brothers who created The Matrix movies have largely credited the 1995 Ghost In The Shell movie as their inspiration.

Certainly not for younger viewers. GTO is simply hilarious, silly comedy. It's aimed at older males but if you're in good form and don't take it too seriously you will wind up having a great time. It's got some great moral lessons and anyone who enjoys ridiculous antics and highly eccentric characters should give this a go, this anime does exactly what it says on the tin... it entertains. ”

Ashita no Joe is the perfect example of how when a simple story is told well, it can achieve greatness. On the surface it might not sound that special, a teenage orphan called Joe who is living in the slums, is convinced to take up boxing by an alcoholic ex-boxing coach. It's how it's handled that makes it special, due to the masterful touch of legendary director Osamu Dezaki, Ashita no Joe is a fantastic example of brilliant story telling and memorable characters. It's an older series and the animation might be a burden for a lot of people but it's well worth making an exception for this one and watching both seasons of it through. It's one of those anime that when you finish it, you're left with a feeling of loss, a feeling of devastation that there's no more episodes.

One of the most popular anime ever. The disinterested hero who saves the day, for some reason people go nuts for this trait. Our hero like the name suggests is so powerful he defeats every monster with a single punch. While I don't love it as much as most do, it's watchable particularly considering the small number of episodes. The biggest charm of the series is the unusual premise and comedic elements. The biggest flaw of this series is the second season, production values dropped and the novelty and charm of the first season diminished. Recommended to those looking for an Action/Comedy that does not require a big time investment.

Code Geass = quality character development, sufficient story progression, adequate animation, some interesting questions surrounding morality and some entertaining action scenes. CG is often compared to Death Note for its "intellectual intrigue" however I'm not so sure how strong a case can be made for that. Comparisons between Light from DN and Lelouch from CG are justified though.

Romeo no Aoi Sora= Another drama anime that many might find themselves sobbing at, a story about a brave boy who sells himself as a chimney sweep to pay for a doctor for his father. It's a slow paced triumph of drama, friendship, heartache, hardships and character. Few anime have heart like this. Recommended to fans of Clannad and Ie Naki Ko.

Simply the greatest straight up action anime ever made! There is no tricks, no fantasy elements, just great action. Revy the main character is the most badass anime chick to ever live. She owns all the so called badass chicks of anime and most of the guys for that matter :P Revy = A dual pistol wielding, cigar smoking, foul mouthed, whiskey drinking, cold hearted killer.

How can an anime with so many flaws make this list? There's a few anime on this list that would fall under that question, DTB is certainly one of them. Why you ask? It's one of those anime that just dives right in and is very confusing at the beginning. Not to mention that it takes time to become emotionally invested in the characters. However when DTB gets good, it's very good. A well directed anime with, superpowers, suspense, mystery and an interesting anti-hero character. Definitely for fans of Death Note and Code Geass.

One of the four Rumiko Takahashi anime on this list (the other three being Maison Ikkoku, Inuyasha and Urusei Yatsura). Ranma 1/2 is probably the most fun of all of them. A ridiculous and silly concept means that this anime provides a lot of side hurting laughs during its run. A fun cast of characters, some very memorable moments and it's arguably the most amusing anime on this list. This anime is a sure thing if you're looking for a pleasant watch.

The anime that arguably cemented the mediums legitimacy and sky rocketed its popularity in America and most of the western world. Neon Genesis Evagelion while starting out rather simplistic quickly develops into a roller coaster ride of epic and profound proportions. Words can't describe this anime adequately, I will simply say I can see why NGA is held in such high esteem and for the most part I think it deserves the iconic status it holds.

Comparisons with 12 Kokuki (The Twelve Kingdoms, which features later on this list) are inevitable when it comes to this anime. Perhaps it's a little simplistic but Guardian of the Sacred Spirit remains a fantastic adventure/fantasy anime. Did you like Rurouni Kenshin? Did you like Claymore? Did you like any of the Studio Ghibli films? If you answered yes to any of these go watch this anime now. It's a well done character driven anime with some highly impressive action scenes.

Gungrave = A fantasy version of Scarface. That pretty much captures its essence. Gungrave is made by the same creator who made Trigun... and in my opinion this anime is the better of the two. Trigun is hugely flawed as an anime and its only real redeemer was some great comedy and a brilliant character in Vash, perhaps where Gungrave surpasses its predecessor is in the brilliance of its ending. While both have weak episodes I felt Trigun had more and I was bitterly disappointed with its ending. Recommended to those who liked Trigun, this is an action packed, quality anime. Just don't drop it on a whim.

TTGL damn near impossible to describe. Off the scale action, sheer absurdity. This is an anime where characters dream and reach to do the impossible, off the chart levels of epicness, realism holds no merit here. This sums it up.... "I knew a man who once said death smiles at us all, all a man can do is smile back". *pats self on back for managing to work in a relevant Gladiator quote that can be applied to this anime* XD

Perhaps I'm a little sexist in saying this but Kureimoa aka Claymore is more of a guys anime. It's an action/adventure/fantasy anime. Perhaps an effort was made to bring in a larger female audience by casting a female lead in Clare....... however this anime is hugely comparable to Berserk in terms of feel and hack and slash action. Berserk was probably the tad darker of the two. Either way highly recommended to fans of the action/fantasy genre.