Top 10 Best Anime in the World
With thousands of anime series out there, finding the absolute best can feel overwhelming. Whether you’re new to anime or a lifelong fan, certain titles stand out for their storytelling, animation, characters, and cultural impact.
In this guide, we’ve curated a list of the top 10 best anime in the world, based on global popularity, critical acclaim, and fan love across generations.
Top 10 Best Anime in the World (Ranked)
1. Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood
- Genre: Action, Adventure, Fantasy
- Why It’s Great: A near-perfect blend of emotional storytelling, strong moral themes, and a satisfying ending. Widely regarded as the most well-balanced anime ever made.
2. Attack on Titan
- Genre: Action, Drama, Dark Fantasy
- Why It’s Great: Known for its epic scale, complex characters, and shocking twists. The final season elevated its legacy to one of the all-time greats.
3. Death Note
- Genre: Psychological Thriller, Supernatural
- Why It’s Great: A gripping cat-and-mouse game between two geniuses. It’s the perfect entry point for new anime watchers who enjoy suspense and strategy.
4. One Piece
- Genre: Adventure, Comedy, Action
- Why It’s Great: The longest-running and most popular anime ever. With over 1,000 episodes, its world-building and character development are unmatched.
5. Naruto: Shippuden
- Genre: Action, Martial Arts, Coming-of-Age
- Why It’s Great: A global favorite known for its epic battles, inspirational themes, and memorable characters. Naruto’s journey from outcast to hero has inspired millions.
6. Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba
- Genre: Action, Historical, Supernatural
- Why It’s Great: Stunning animation and emotional storytelling helped this anime become a modern classic. The Mugen Train movie became a box office phenomenon.
7. Steins;Gate
- Genre: Sci-Fi, Thriller, Drama
- Why It’s Great: A time-travel story that’s both intellectually complex and emotionally touching. A must-watch for science fiction fans.
8. Jujutsu Kaisen
- Genre: Supernatural, Action, Dark Fantasy
- Why It’s Great: Dynamic fight scenes, strong characters, and powerful animation make this one of the best new-generation anime series.
9. Hunter x Hunter (2011)
- Genre: Adventure, Fantasy, Psychological
- Why It’s Great: A deep, strategic shonen anime with complex villains and a unique approach to power systems. Highly praised by critics and fans alike.
10. Spirited Away (Movie)
- Genre: Fantasy, Adventure, Coming-of-Age
- Why It’s Great: A masterpiece by Studio Ghibli, this Oscar-winning film introduced anime to millions of international viewers. Visually stunning and emotionally deep.
Final Thoughts: What Makes an Anime the “Best”?
The “best” anime isn’t just about animation quality — it’s about the lasting impact a story has on viewers. The titles above have earned their place in anime history for delivering unforgettable experiences, iconic characters, and deep messages.
Whether you’re diving into anime for the first time or revisiting a classic, these 10 series are must-watch anime for every fan around the world.