Anime, a vibrant and evolving form of entertainment from a classical manga comic book has witnessed unprecedented growth over the years.

From the recent phenomenon of Demon Slayer to the enduring legacy of One Piece with its staggering 1,000 episodes, the anime landscape offers a plethora of choices.

In 2024, a team of seasoned anime experts meticulously curated a list of the top 25 anime series of all time, considering their cultural impact, influence on the industry and genre, and personal preferences.

This article focuses on the cream of the crop, presenting the top 10 Best Anime Series of All Time that have left an indelible mark on the world of animation.

1. Fully Cooly – Short Yet Impactful

Fully Cooly defies conventional anime standards with its brevity, delivering a Sci-Fi comedy that embraces the art of knowing when to conclude. The surreal tone, coupled with an outstanding soundtrack and experimental animation, renders Fully Cooly a truly unique and unforgettable anime experience.

2. Yu Yu Hakusho – A Tale of Redemption

The narrative unfolds with Yusuke Urameshi, a 14-year-old teenage delinquent who sacrifices himself to save a child. Denied a place in heaven or hell, Yusuke is granted a second chance as a spirit world detective investigating supernatural activities in the human realm. Standing alongside Dragon Ball Z, this 90s classic has solidified its status as one of the most influential action anime.

3. Neon Genesis Evangelion – A Masterpiece Shrouded in Controversy

More than two decades since its release, Neon Genesis Evangelion remains a subject of discussion and debate. Hideaki Ano’s groundbreaking anime, marked by its divisive final episodes, exemplifies the auteur approach to storytelling. Despite numerous sequels and reimaginings, the original run stands as a fan favorite, demonstrating the enduring resonance of artistic vision.

4. Hunter x Hunter – A Journey of Discovery

Hunter x Hunter embarks on a familiar trope as Gon, a young boy, leaves his town to uncover the mystery of his renowned hunter father. The series navigates emotional highs and lows, portraying compelling arcs for both protagonists and antagonists. With spectacular dramatic action typical of Shonen, Hunter x Hunter emerges as a thrilling and captivating journey.

5. Mob Psycho 100 – A Unique Blend of Parody and Excellence

From the creator of One Punch Man, Mob Psycho 100 seamlessly blends parody with exemplary Shonen style. Centered around Mob, an 8th grader with a talent for exorcising evil spirits, the series thrives on humor, a memorable cast, and dynamic visual style. The catch lies in Mob’s supernatural powers, intricately tied to his emotions, adding depth to the narrative.

6. Hajime no Ippo – Fighting Spirit Unleashed

Known as Fighting Spirit in the U.S., Hajime no Ippo adapts a long-running manga series into a thrilling anime. Imagine a fusion of Rocky and The Karate Kid, and you’ll grasp the essence of this coming-of-age drama. The protagonist, Ippo, evolves beyond mere training for victory; he seeks understanding and connection with his opponents, elevating the series to a league of its own.

7. Monster – A Gritty Tale of Redemption

In the anime landscape dominated by fantastical elements, Monster stands as a beacon of realism. A dark, mature, and gritty thriller, it narrates the story of a principled man who loses everything in pursuit of justice. The series explores the consequences of his actions and the arduous journey to rectify a mistake. Its departure from conventional themes makes Monster a truly exceptional narrative.

8. One Piece – A Timeless Pirate Odyssey

Enduring for almost two decades with over 1,000 episodes, One Piece continues to captivate audiences globally. Ichiro Oda’s vision, manifest in profound world-building, deep characters, and stellar adaptation, propels the series to the summit of Shonen anime history. Its impact on viewers, both seasoned fans and newcomers, attests to the enduring quality of Oda’s creation.

9. Cowboy Bebop – Timeless Space Western

Surpassing two decades since its inception, Cowboy Bebop retains its allure with an engaging story, robust characters, and an unforgettable soundtrack. The space Western, introducing characters like Spike, Jet, Faye, and Ein, transcends the anime medium. Praised by luminaries such as Orson Scott Card and Ryan Johnson, Cowboy Bebop’s exploration of adult themes ensures its everlasting influence.

10. Fullmetal Alchemist Brotherhood – Epitome of Sympathy and Elegance

Balancing intricate world-building, a memorable cast, and thrilling fights is a challenge many anime face. Fullmetal Alchemist Brotherhood rises to this challenge with elegance. The Elric brothers’ journey, driven by sympathy and motivation, unfolds amidst a world of monsters, government conspiracy, and divinity. The series, marked by unforgettable moments, stands as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit.

10. Vinland Saga: A Historical Epic

Vinland Saga takes the tenth spot on our list, presenting an enthralling narrative set against the backdrop of the Danish invasion of England. This historical action anime follows the journey of Torin, a young Viking grappling with the consequences of his bloodlust. The series skillfully portrays themes of revenge and redemption, showcasing how time and reflection can transform even the most violent of souls. With breathtaking animation and a character journey that resonates, Vinland Saga secures its place among the best.

9. Dragon Ball Franchise: The Classic Showdown

For enthusiasts of classic shonen action, the Dragon Ball franchise holds an undeniable allure. Following the adventures of Goku, viewers are treated to a spectacle of fantasy and flashy fight scenes. From Kamehameha waves to tournament arcs and cosmic threats, Dragon Ball remains a timeless source of excitement. Its original sense of wonder, coupled with grandiose animation, ensures an enduring hype, especially when recalling iconic moments like Goku’s first golden transformation.

8. Neon Genesis Evangelion: Beyond Giant Robots

Don’t be deceived by the giant robots; Neon Genesis Evangelion transcends the typical mecha anime. Amidst the sci-fi spectacle and tight jumpsuits, Evangelion serves as a meditation on the folly of humanity’s existence. As Shinji and his fellow pilots battle intergalactic alien threats known as Angels, the series delves into the depths of existential dread. It unfolds as a case study in the complexities of human nature, making it a unique entry in the anime pantheon.

7. One Piece: The Great Pirate Era

Embracing the spirit of the great pirate era, One Piece follows Luffy and the Straw Hat crew on their quest for the legendary treasure left by the Pirate King. The series excels in balancing hilarious companionship with titanic battles and creative locations. Amidst the humor lies moments of heartbreaking characterization, a testament to the anime’s enduring quality. Despite its lengthy run, One Piece continues to scale new heights, making it a celebrated and timeless adventure.

6. Code Geass: The Tale of an Anti-Hero

Code Geass introduces Lelouch Vi Britannia, an anti-hero on a crusade to overturn his homeland for a better tomorrow. Armed with the secret identity of Zero and the mind-altering power of Geass, Lelouch’s story is bittersweet, illustrating how even noble intentions can lead down dark paths. Set against a killer sci-fi backdrop, Code Geass intricately weaves Lelouch’s machinations, creating a narrative that enthralls viewers as much as it ensnares the characters within.

5. Attack on Titan: The Dark Fantasy Masterpiece

At the fifth position, we have Attack on Titan, a dark fantasy modern masterpiece that astounded the world with its rich plotting and savage setting. The series introduces morally gray complexity, with every twist becoming a monumental event. The narrative revolves around the last remnants of humanity, forced to safeguard themselves from Titans. As the story unfolds, it reveals conspiracies, secrets, and enemies both within and beyond the walls. Attack on Titan stands as a bloody and brutal affair destined to endure the test of time.

4. Hunter x Hunter: Polishing Shonen Tropes to Brilliance

Hunter x Hunter takes the fourth spot by redefining shonen tropes and polishing them to an unmitigated shine. Gon’s adventures as a hunter take a dark and violent turn, featuring intense battles and moments of genuine despair. The series evolves from a globetrotting jaunt with friends to a narrative filled with sinister criminal organizations and apex horrors. Hunter x Hunter’s brilliance emerges as it navigates from a quirky beginning to a mature and captivating tale.

3. Gurren Lagann: Giant Robots and Outrageous Macho Moments

Gurren Lagann claims the third position with its giant robots the size of whole galaxies and an abundance of outrageously macho moments. Studio Trigger’s masterpiece showcases a team that excels at delivering high-energy and character-driven narratives. The battle against the beastmen and the anti-spiral unfolds with charismatic characters like Kamina and Yoko. By the end, viewers are convinced that a determined group of humans can challenge the very stars in the sky.

2. Cowboy Bebop: The Epitome of Cool

Taking the second spot is Cowboy Bebop, a series that embodies the epitome of cool in the known universe. Spike Spiegel and his fellow bounty hunters navigate a gritty, space-faring neon noir world, taking on dangerous and strange challenges in the most stylish manner imaginable. The series, with its jazz-centric soundtrack, genre shifts, and beautifully choreographed fight scenes, weaves together into a pseudo-anthology that remains as sharp today as it was when it first graced the screens.

1. Full Metal Alchemist Brotherhood: The Definitive Anime Experience

Earning the top spot is Full Metal Alchemist Brotherhood, a series that encapsulates everything one could desire in an anime. The Elric Brothers embark on a mission to find the philosopher’s stone and reclaim what was lost. The series excels in delivering an impeccable sense of adventure, set against a world rife with conflict, opposing cultures, and intriguing ideals. Creative and hard-hitting action, coupled with an unbreakable bond between Ed and Al, weaves a narrative that explores profound themes and captivates both hardcore fans and newcomers alike.

Conclusion

In the ever-expanding universe of anime, these top 10 series of 2022 represent the epitome of storytelling, innovation, and cultural impact. Each narrative, from Fully Cooly’s brevity to Fullmetal Alchemist Brotherhood’s depth, contributes to the rich tapestry of anime history.

As we delve into the diverse realms crafted by these series, it becomes evident that anime continues to evolve, leaving an indelible mark on global entertainment.