Anime has grown from a niche interest into a global phenomenon, captivating audiences with its unique storytelling, diverse genres, and stunning animation.
For those new to anime or looking to explore the classics, here are ten series that have left an indelible mark on the medium and continue to be celebrated by fans worldwide.
10. One Piece (1999-present)
- Creator: Eiichiro Oda
- Studio: Toei Animation
"One Piece" is a long-running adventure series that has captivated audiences with its imaginative world and compelling narrative. The story follows Monkey D. Luffy and his pirate crew as they search for the legendary One Piece treasure. Known for its rich world-building, diverse characters, and emotional storytelling, "One Piece" has become one of the best-selling manga and anime series of all time, continuing to delight fans with its ongoing adventures.
9. Naruto (2002-2007)
- Creator: Masashi Kishimoto
- Studio: Studio Pierrot
"Naruto" is a beloved shonen series that follows the journey of Naruto Uzumaki, a young ninja with dreams of becoming the strongest ninja in his village. The series is known for its extensive cast of characters, thrilling action sequences, and themes of perseverance and friendship. It has spawned numerous spin-offs, movies, and a sequel series, "Naruto Shippuden," cementing its place as a cornerstone of modern anime.
8. Ghost in the Shell (1995)
- Director: Mamoru Oshii
- Studio: Production I.G
"Ghost in the Shell" is a cyberpunk masterpiece that explores themes of identity, consciousness, and technology. Set in a futuristic world where cybernetic enhancements are common, the story follows Major Motoko Kusanagi, a cyborg working for a covert ops division, as she hunts a mysterious hacker known as the Puppet Master. The film's philosophical depth and visual innovation have influenced numerous works, including Hollywood films like "The Matrix."
7. My Neighbor Totoro (1988)
- Director: Hayao Miyazaki
- Studio: Studio Ghibli
Another film rather than a series, "My Neighbor Totoro" is a delightful and heartwarming tale from the legendary Studio Ghibli. It tells the story of two young sisters who move to the countryside and discover magical creatures, including the titular Totoro. The film is celebrated for its beautiful animation, gentle storytelling, and its ability to capture the wonder and innocence of childhood.
6. Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood (2009-2010)
- Director: Yasuhiro Irie
- Studio: Bones
An adaptation of Hiromu Arakawa's manga, "Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood" is lauded for its rich storytelling and complex world-building. The series follows brothers Edward and Alphonse Elric as they seek the Philosopher's Stone to restore their bodies after a failed alchemical experiment. The series balances action, emotion, and philosophical questions about the nature of humanity and sacrifice, making it a must-watch.
5. Sailor Moon (1992-1997)
- Creator: Naoko Takeuchi
- Studio: Toei Animation
"Sailor Moon" is a magical girl series that has charmed audiences with its blend of action, romance, and humor. The story follows Usagi Tsukino, an ordinary girl who transforms into Sailor Moon to fight evil forces. Along with her fellow Sailor Scouts, she battles villains and navigates the trials of adolescence. The series is celebrated for its strong female characters, vibrant animation, and its role in popularizing anime worldwide.
4. Akira (1988)
- Director: Katsuhiro Otomo
- Studio: Tokyo Movie Shinsha
While technically a film rather than a series, "Akira" is essential viewing for any anime enthusiast. Set in a post-apocalyptic Tokyo, the story follows Kaneda and Tetsuo, members of a biker gang, as they get entangled in a government conspiracy and supernatural events. "Akira" is praised for its groundbreaking animation, detailed art, and influence on both anime and global pop culture.
3. Dragon Ball Z (1989-1996)
- Creator: Akira Toriyama
- Studio: Toei Animation
"Dragon Ball Z" is one of the most influential shonen (targeted at young boys) anime series ever made. It follows the adventures of Goku and his friends as they defend Earth against powerful foes. Known for its epic battles, iconic transformations, and enduring characters, "Dragon Ball Z" has become a cornerstone of anime culture and continues to inspire new generations of fans and creators.
2. Cowboy Bebop (1998-1999)
- Director: Shinichirō Watanabe
- Studio: Sunrise
"Cowboy Bebop" is a space western that blends action, jazz music, and noir elements into a stylish narrative. The series follows a group of bounty hunters, led by the cool and enigmatic Spike Spiegel, as they travel through space in their ship, the Bebop. Each episode is a self-contained story, making it accessible and enjoyable for new viewers. Its blend of genres, memorable characters, and outstanding soundtrack have made it a timeless classic.
1. Neon Genesis Evangelion (1995-1996)
- Director: Hideaki Anno
- Studio: Gainax, Tatsunoko Production
A genre-defining mecha anime, "Neon Genesis Evangelion" is renowned for its complex characters, philosophical themes, and psychological depth. The story follows Shinji Ikari, a teenager recruited to pilot a giant bio-mechanical robot to protect Earth from mysterious beings known as Angels. The series explores deep existential questions and has a significant cultural impact, inspiring countless other works and debates among fans and critics alike.
These ten classic anime series represent a diverse array of genres, themes, and storytelling techniques that have helped shape the anime landscape. Whether you're new to anime or a seasoned fan, these series offer a glimpse into the creativity and depth of the medium, making them essential viewing for anyone interested in exploring the world of anime.