Anime has become increasingly popular in recent years. It not only offers universes filled with intriguing stories, stunning visuals, and characters you can’t help but love, but anime also provides entertainment that anyone can enjoy. If you’re still searching for what shows to watch and want to find the cream of the crop, then this article is for you.
We will be unveiling 15 amazing anime masterpieces all viewers are sure to love. These titles range from slice-of-life comedies to enthralling fantasy adventures, gripping mysteries, and thrilling psychological thrillers, with many other genres included in between.
Not only that but they were all created by some of the most talented animation studios in Japan. Tune in as we take a closer look at each one – featuring unique stories and creative designs bound to blow your mind:
Contents
15. Mob Psycho 100
Any fan of mind-boggling anime must be familiar with the much-lauded show Mob Psycho 100. This unique production by studio Bones follows the story of Kageyama Shigeo, an awkward middle schooler nicknamed “Mob” for his lack of presence.
Little does anyone know that powerful psychic energy resides within Mob – energy he has to constantly keep in check with the help of Reigen, a shady and self-proclaimed spiritualist.
As Mob and Reigen embark on exciting supernatural adventures that test Mob’s powers, their misadventures take out-of-sight turns as they often find themselves tangled in sinister conspiracies.
The current and past arcs showcase some unreal visuals and nail-biting suspense and leave viewers eager for more episodes.
Each episode features humorous jabs, thoughtful monologues delivered by characters, great music, and considerate performances by the seiyuu, giving this show an irresistible appeal to newcomers and faithful followers alike.
14. Cowboy Bebop
Cowboy Bebop is a masterpiece of anime and easily one of the most important works in the past twenty years. It follows the rag-tag crew of a spaceship called the Bebop, exploring their way across our solar system and having wonderful adventures.
The incredible visuals, characters and storyline are some of the many highlights that make Cowboy Bebop a timeless classic. Not only is it artistically beautiful, but its music by Yoko Kanno has been just as impactful as the actual animation.
This masterful blend of art styles combined with fluid storytelling creates an unforgettable experience you’ll never want to end. Cowboy Bebop pushes genre boundaries and offers something for everyone no matter what kind of anime fan you may be.
13. Jujutsu Kaisen
The Masterpiece Anime “Jujutsu Kaisen” is a paranormal fantasy series set in modern Japan. The story follows the adventure of an unlikely hero, Yuji Itadori and his battle with monsters known as Cursed Spirits. Itadori teams up with a powerful Jujutsu sorcerer to take on these unfathomable forces and protect humanity from the Curse.
As he develops his powers and navigates immense external threats, Itadori discovers powerful allies in addition to powerful enemies along the way. The art style of this anime has been praised for its combination of rich colours, intricate character design, and dynamic action scenes – making for an unforgettable viewing experience for fans.
With gripping story arcs, complex plots and captivating characters, Jujutsu Kaisen may be one of the most exciting offerings that anime has ever seen. This gem is sure to please any novice or experienced anime fan alike – perfect for those casual afternoons or late nights when nothing else can beat it.
12. Natsume Yuujinchou (Natsume’s Book of Friends)
Natsume Yuujinchou (Natsume’s Book of Friends) is an anime masterpiece that audiences around the world have grown to know and love.
Following the story of Takashi Natsume, a shy teenage boy who discovers he has inherited the ability to see and communicate with spirits, viewers are taken on an emotional journey as Natsume discovers more about his deceased grandmother Reiko, who once passed down her powers to him.
The series follows Natsume as he befriends both humans and spirit beasts alike while trying to prevent them from being used for malicious means.
Although it centres on supernatural elements and creatures from Japanese folklore, it refuses to glamorize the supernatural world and instead paints a grounded picture of the relationship between Natsume’s human friends and their many yokai companions.
Each episode is rich in heart-warming moments as viewers watch Natsume go through personal growth as he learns about his grandmother’s past life. Above all, this endearing anime stands out for its stellar animation quality and engrossing storyline which keep viewers hooked from start to finish.
11. Code Geass
Code Geass is an incredible masterpiece anime series created by Sunrise Animation that raises the bar in storytelling.
With two distinct and compelling seasons, this epic follows the young protagonist Lelouch Lamperouge who, caught in a conflict between two authoritarian superpowers, Britannia and The Chinese Federation, enacts an ingenious plan to divert them from their feud.
Masterfully crafted characters bring this unique story of rebellion and civil war to life, engaging fans with its more mature themes of trust and betrayal. Its award-winning soundtrack adds great depth to the series highlighting intense scenes to stirring heights.
10. Haikyuu!!
“Haikyuu!!” is an action-packed anime series that follows the story of Hinata Shoyo, an ambitious high school student who dreams of becoming a professional volleyball player.
Despite having a small stature and lacking essential skills, he never backs away from giving it his all to pursue his dream, which leads him to Karasuno High School, a once great volleyball team that is now in shambles.
Hinata and his team join up together with a common goal of beating their rivals and proving themselves in the prefectural tournament. Filled with intense energy and inspiring music, “Haikyuu!!” wonderfully depicts themes such as friendship, perseverance, motivation and growth.
With a realistic art style and an amazing original soundtrack, it has become one of the most popular anime series in the world.
9. Ginga Eiyuu Densetsu ( Legend of the Galactic Heroes)
Ginga Eiyuu Densetsu ( Legend of the Galactic Heroes) is a beloved masterpiece anime series featuring interstellar war and thrilling space battles. Adapted from the Japanese novel series by Yoshiki Tanaka, Ginga Eiyuu Densetsu has become beloved worldwide for its dynamic characters, engaging storylines, and gorgeous animation.
Taking place in a distant future where humans have colonized much of the Milky Way Galaxy, two powerful galaxies — the Galactic Empire and the Free Planets Alliance — face off in an epic struggle for supremacy.
The thrilling battles between fleets as they clash among the stars make up some of the most breathtaking sequences in any 80s fantasy anime.
As captivating starship duels unfold, viewers watch an in-depth portrayal of human life through character development, moral dilemmas, relationships between man and machines, strategies, logistics and tactics of warfare.
8. 3-Gatsu No Lion (March is like A Lion)
“3-Gatsu No Lion” (“March Comes in Like a Lion”) is an anime masterpiece that follows the story of 17-year-old Rei Kirimura as he navigates through his troubled life.
Growing up as a professional shōgi (Japanese chess) player, Rei struggles with the immense pressure from his grandmother, who raised him since childhood and sought solace in the friendships he’s forged in Tokyo.
In this anime, viewers can watch Rei come to terms with his past, embrace his love for shōgi, and find his inner strength. It stands out among other anime series due to its raw emotion and captivating storytelling. As a reminder of the beauty of life’s complexities, “3-Gatsu No Lion” is sure to leave a smile on your face while also piercing your heart.
By tuning into this magnificent work of art, you will be met with moments of perfect serenity and beauty that are sure to stay with you long after the series ends.
7. The Fullmetal Alchemist Brotherhood
The Fullmetal Alchemist Brotherhood is an incredible Japanese animated or anime masterpiece that has captivated viewers everywhere. It follows two alchemists on a wild journey, traversing a range of emotions as they strive to undo the consequences of their fateful attempt to bring their mother back using forbidden magic.
Along the way, they unravel mysteries leading to dark conspiracies and discover truths about alchemy and themselves. Featuring groundbreaking animation, an incredibly unique storyline and dynamic characters, this anime keeps you engaged from start to finish.
Its grasp on topics such as politics and morality makes it an educational journey as well. Furthermore, its hugely popular soundtrack adds tremendous emotion to key points in this awesome series.
6. Attack on Titan
Attack on Titan, or Shingeki no Kyojin, is a world-renowned anime series that tells a gripping story of survival and perseverance in a post-apocalyptic world. It has become an immensely popular anime masterpiece, widely acclaimed by both hardcore fans and casual viewers alike.
The story follows the journey of Eren Yeager, Mikasa Ackermann, and Armin Artlit as they protect humanity from the monstrous Titans. Set against the backdrop of fantasy and action, Attack on Titan is one of the most engaging anime shows on air today.
Besides its captivating plotlines and incredible animation, Attack on Titan delivers a powerful message of empowerment to its audience.
This show demonstrates how just one person can make a difference in times of darkness and despair by inspiring courage in those around him. With each episode, you will find yourself becoming more deeply rooted within the storyline and sympathizing with each character’s plight.
5. Basket of Fruits Basket
The beloved masterpiece anime series’ Fruits Basket’ tells the story of the high-school student Tohru Honda, who finds herself living with members of the mysterious Souma family curse.
Easily one of the most popular manga and anime series of all time, ‘Fruits Basket’ is captivating, funny, quirky and has a heartwarming message that resonates deeply in viewers’ hearts.
With a unique premise and cast of characters, fans can’t help but fall in love with this classic anime. Its underrated art direction helps bring to life each moment between Tohru and her unusual housemates as she comes to understand their secrets and bonds further with them.
Fruits Basket shows us how magical our efforts at making positive connections can be – no matter where they take us.
4. Gintama
Gin Tama is perhaps the most iconic masterpiece anime to come out of Japan in recent times. With a unique comic style that is both outrageous and endearing, Gintama has proven itself to be a timeless classic.
Following approximately five years of airtime, Spin-offs and several feature films, Gintama stands apart from other popular animes in its approach to parody while still featuring many heartfelt moments sprinkled throughout the show.
The show follows the story of an amoral ex-samurai, Gintoki Sakata, who lives in Edo with his friends Shinpachi Shimura and Kagura as they deliciously battle aliens living among them – while trying to make ends meet with odd jobs.
The outlandish yet surprisingly heartwarming tale provides plenty of action, laughs, and adventures right until its conclusion, even despite the occasional changes in genre and time periods as the storyline progresses.
3. Hunter x Hunter
Hunter x Hunter is an extremely popular anime series that offers a thrilling and exciting adventure. The main protagonist, Gon Freecss, sets out on a journey to follow in his father’s footsteps by becoming a legendary Hunter.
On his journey, he meets all sorts of characters, from enemies who are determined to set him back in his goal to friends who support and cheer him on.
Followers of the show will experience an exhilarating adventure as they watch Gon take on foes and accomplish seemingly impossible tasks while trying to become an elite hunter.
For those looking for a captivating story, interesting characters and stunning visuals then this masterpiece won’t let you down. Whether you’re looking for action-packed battle scenes or intriguing storylines, there is something for everyone with Hunter x Hunter.
2. One Piece
One Piece is one of the most beloved and successful manga and anime series in Japan, having sold 430 million copies worldwide. One Piece follows the humorous adventures of Monkey D Luffy, a young pirate who sets out to find the world’s greatest treasure, the legendary “One Piece”.
Along the way, Luffy faces off against powerful enemies and makes a wide range of colourful friendships as he fights for justice and seeks out his dreams. With its hearty blend of humour, action, adventure and romance, One Piece has managed to gather an international following like no other piece of entertainment ever before.
Each character is unique and fascinating in their own special way; from bumbling pirate captains to mysterious secret agents, each adds something special to this incredible experience.
1. Steins; Gate
Steins; Gate is a masterpiece anime masterpiece that tells the story of Rintaro Okabe and his attempts to use his radically advanced invention, the Phone Microwave, to travel through time.
This thrilling sci-fi show follows Okabe as he learns the dangers of altering history and how far he must go for a better future. With intense emotional moments and plenty of thought-provoking plot twists, Steins; Gate stands out from the rest in its genre.
Amongst its outstanding animation and brilliant cast, this anime won a 2012 Tokyo Anime Award for Animation of the Year. The characters’ groundbreaking journey is brilliantly depicted with suspenseful storytelling and visually stunning artwork.
Conclusion
Animé is a unique art form that takes the beauty and emotion of hand-drawn animation and fills it with exciting storylines and fascinating characters. With such a huge range of amazing animals out there, it can be hard to know where to start. That’s why this article highlighted 15 masterpieces that you must add to your watch list.
Each anime listed has something special to offer. Whether you’re looking for an immersive adventure or a heartwarming story, these 15 suggestions provide something for everyone. So don’t wait any longer – make sure to check out these 15 incredible pieces of anime.
