Top 10 Must-Watch Anime of All Time

Anime has taken the world by storm. Its captivating storylines, vibrant characters, and stunning animation have garnered a massive global fanbase. But with countless shows to choose from, where do you even begin? Fear not, aspiring otaku (anime fan)! This list explores the top 10 must-watch anime of all time, offering a diverse selection that caters to a variety of interests.

1. Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood (2009-2010): Widely considered the pinnacle of anime achievement, Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood is a masterpiece of storytelling. Edward and Alphonse Elric, two alchemist brothers, attempt the forbidden act of human transmutation to bring their mother back, facing devastating consequences. This high-octane adventure is a perfect blend of action, humor, and emotional depth, exploring themes of brotherhood, sacrifice, and the pursuit of knowledge.

2. Cowboy Bebop (1998-1999): Buckle up for a spacefaring adventure with a crew of charming bounty hunters in Cowboy Bebop. Spike Spiegel, a jaded gunslinger with a past, leads his ragtag team aboard the spaceship Bebop. Each episode is a self-contained story, brimming with wit, action, and a touch of melancholy. Cowboy Bebop’s soundtrack is legendary, seamlessly fusing jazz and blues with the show’s futuristic setting.

3. Hunter x Hunter (2011-2014): Calling all adventure seekers! Hunter x Hunter follows Gon Freecss on his quest to become a Hunter, individuals who track down treasures, capture rare beasts, and explore the unknown. Accompanied by a quirky cast of allies, Gon navigates a world filled with martial arts, intricate power systems, and thrilling challenges. Hunter x Hunter is a shounen (aimed at a young male audience) classic, celebrated for its captivating world-building, well-developed characters, and epic battles.

4. Neon Genesis Evangelion (1995-1996): Prepare to delve into the psychological depths of humanity with Neon Genesis Evangelion. Shinji Ikari, a withdrawn teenager, is recruited by his estranged father to pilot a giant bio-mechanical weapon and combat monstrous beings. Evangelion tackles complex themes of depression, isolation, and the fear of inadequacy. While its ending is famously ambiguous, it has sparked endless discussions and interpretations, solidifying its place as a genre-defining anime.

5. Spirited Away (2001): For a visually stunning and heartwarming experience, look no further than Studio Ghibli’s Spirited Away. Chihiro Ogino, a sullen ten-year-old, stumbles upon a world of spirits while moving to a new home. Separated from her parents and trapped in a bathhouse for spirits, Chihiro must work for the greedy witch Yubaba to free herself and her parents. Spirited Away is a coming-of-age story that celebrates courage, kindness, and the importance of self-reliance.

6. Haikyuu!! (2014-present): Calling all sports fans! Haikyuu!! is a love letter to volleyball, capturing the intensity, teamwork, and sheer joy of the sport. Shoyo Hinata, a short and enthusiastic boy, joins his high school’s volleyball team despite facing ridicule because of his height. Hinata’s unwavering determination and the team’s growth as they strive for victory will have you cheering them on every step of the way.

7. Death Note (2006-2007): Light Yagami, a brilliant but bored high school student, discovers a notebook with the power to kill anyone whose name is written in it. A dark and suspenseful psychological thriller ensues as Light, calling himself “Kira,” attempts to rid the world of criminals while a detective known only as “L” hunts him down. Death Note explores themes of morality, justice, and the power dynamic between a god complex and a relentless pursuer.

8. Monster (2004-2005): In the realm of seinen (aimed at young adult males), Monster is a gripping masterpiece. Dr. Kenzo Tenma, a brilliant neurosurgeon, prioritizes saving a young boy’s life over a politician’s. Years later, the saved boy becomes a prolific murderer, and Dr. Tenma dedicates his life to stopping the monster he inadvertently created. Monster is a slow burn, weaving a complex narrative with philosophical questions about good and evil.

9. My Hero Academia (2016-present): In a world where superpowers (Quirks) are commonplace, Izuku Midoriya dreams of becoming a hero despite being born Quirkless. When a chance encounter with the legendary All Might grants him the power of One for All, Izuku enrolls in U.A. High, a school that trains the next generation of heroes. My Hero Academia is a shounen filled with action-packed battles, inspiring characters, and a message about striving to be your best even without inherent advantages.

10. Princess Mononoke (1997): Another Studio Ghibli masterpiece, Princess Mononoke is a visually stunning epic that tackles environmental themes. Ashitaka, a young prince cursed by a demon, journeys to the forest where a war is brewing between the forest gods led by the boar god Moro and humans led by Lady Eboshi. Caught in the middle, Ashitaka fights for peace and balance between humanity and nature. Princess Mononoke is a powerful story that resonates with its complex characters and timeless message about protecting the environment.

Beyond the Top 10:

The world of anime is vast and ever-expanding. This list merely scratches the surface of the incredible shows waiting to be discovered. Don’t hesitate to explore different genres, from slice-of-life comedies to sci-fi epics. With so many options available, there’s a perfect anime out there for everyone.

Happy Watching!