Crunchyroll, the ultimate streaming platform for anime lovers, has a treasure trove of exceptional series waiting to be explored. From epic battles to heartwarming tales, the world of anime offers a diverse range of experiences that can take you on thrilling journeys, make you ponder profound questions, or simply put a smile on your face. In this blog post, we’ve curated a handpicked list of 20 anime series that are bound to keep you hooked from start to finish.
Whether you’re a seasoned otaku or a newcomer to the world of Japanese animation, there’s something here for everyone. From the post-apocalyptic battles of “Attack on Titan” to the supernatural mysteries of “Death Note,” and the quirky humor of “One Punch Man,” we’ve got your anime cravings covered. Join us as we dive into the captivating worlds of heroes, villains, and everything in between.
1. Attack on Titan
“Attack on Titan” is set in a world where humanity is on the brink of extinction due to gigantic humanoid creatures known as Titans that devour humans seemingly without reason. The remnants of humanity live within enormous walled cities to protect themselves. The story follows Eren Yeager, Mikasa Ackerman, and Armin Arlert, who join the military to fight the Titans and uncover the truth about their world’s history. This anime is known for its intense action, complex characters, and a plot filled with twists and mysteries. It has received critical acclaim for its animation quality, character development, and thought-provoking themes.
2. My Hero Academia
“My Hero Academia” is set in a world where people possess superpowers known as “Quirks.” The story centers around Izuku Midoriya, a Quirkless boy who aspires to become a hero. He inherits the powerful Quirk “One For All” from the legendary hero All Might, leading him to enroll in U.A. High School to train as a hero. This series is praised for its character-driven storytelling, exploring themes of heroism, and showcasing thrilling battles. Critics and fans alike appreciate its diverse cast of characters and the way it examines the complexities of being a hero in a superpowered society.
3. One Piece
“One Piece” follows Monkey D. Luffy, who gains the ability to stretch like rubber after eating a Devil Fruit. He assembles a crew of pirates known as the Straw Hat Pirates to find the ultimate treasure, One Piece, and become the Pirate King. This long-running series combines adventure, humor, and epic battles with a richly developed world. It has garnered praise for its world-building, character growth, and emotional depth, making it a beloved classic in the anime community.
4. Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba
“Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba” revolves around Tanjiro Kamado, a young boy turned demon slayer after his family is slaughtered by demons, and his sister, Nezuko, is turned into one. Tanjiro joins the Demon Slayer Corps to avenge his family and find a cure for his sister. The anime is celebrated for its breathtaking animation, intense action sequences, and compelling characters. Its emotional depth and themes of family and determination have resonated strongly with both critics and audiences.
5. Naruto
“Naruto” follows Naruto Uzumaki, a young ninja with dreams of becoming the Hokage, the leader of his village. Along his journey, he faces challenges, forms strong bonds with friends like Sasuke and Sakura, and unravels secrets about his past. This series is renowned for its character development, intricate ninja battles, and exploration of themes such as perseverance and friendship. “Naruto” has left a lasting impact on the anime world and has received praise for its character-driven narrative and epic battles.
6. Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood
“Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood” follows the Elric brothers, Edward and Alphonse, who use alchemy in their quest to find the Philosopher’s Stone to restore their bodies after a failed alchemical experiment. The series is celebrated for its intricate plot, well-developed characters, and exploration of moral and philosophical themes. It has received critical acclaim for its storytelling, animation quality, and emotional depth.
7. Death Note
“Death Note” centers on Light Yagami, a high school student who gains a notebook with the power to kill anyone whose name is written in it. Light decides to use the Death Note to rid the world of criminals, leading to a cat-and-mouse game with the genius detective L. This anime is praised for its psychological tension, moral dilemmas, and complex characters. It has garnered a dedicated fanbase and critical acclaim for its unique premise and execution.
8. Hunter x Hunter (2011)
“Hunter x Hunter” follows Gon Freecss, a young boy who aspires to become a Hunter like his absentee father. Hunters are licensed individuals who pursue dangerous quests. The series is known for its intricate world-building, strategic battles, and character development. Critics have lauded its storytelling, intricate power systems, and exploration of themes like friendship and determination.
9. Re:Zero – Starting Life in Another World
“Re:Zero” tells the story of Subaru Natsuki, who is transported to a fantasy world and discovers he can return from death. He embarks on a journey to uncover the mysteries of this new world and save those he cares about. The anime is praised for its intricate plot, character growth, and exploration of trauma and resilience. It has received critical acclaim for its handling of complex themes and character-driven narrative.
10. The Promised Neverland
“The Promised Neverland” is set in an orphanage where children live happily until they discover a dark secret. The series follows Emma, Norman, and Ray as they plan their escape and unravel the mysteries of their world. This anime is lauded for its suspenseful storytelling, well-crafted characters, and exploration of trust and survival. It has received critical acclaim for its unique premise and psychological thrills.
11. One Punch Man
“One Punch Man” follows Saitama, a hero who can defeat any opponent with a single punch, leading to a sense of boredom and a quest to find a worthy challenge. The series blends action and humor, satirizing superhero tropes while delivering thrilling battles. It is well-received for its animation quality, humor, and subversion of traditional superhero narratives.
12. Vinland Saga
“Vinland Saga” is a historical anime set in the Viking Age, following Thorfinn, a young warrior seeking revenge against the man who killed his father. The series is known for its historical accuracy, complex characters, and exploration of themes like war and redemption. It has garnered critical acclaim for its realistic depiction of Viking life and deep character development.
13. JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure
“JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure” is an epic series that spans generations of the Joestar family. Each arc features unique characters with supernatural abilities, engaging in battles against various villains. The anime is celebrated for its creativity, stylish presentation, and memorable characters. It has a dedicated fanbase and is praised for its distinctive art style.
14. Haikyuu!!
“Haikyuu!!” revolves around Hinata Shoyo, a determined volleyball player, and his journey to compete at the highest level. The series is renowned for its thrilling volleyball matches, well-developed characters, and themes of teamwork and perseverance. Critics and fans appreciate its sportsmanship and character growth.
15. Black Clover
“Black Clover” follows Asta, a boy born without magical powers in a world where magic is everything. He aims to become the Wizard King and overcomes his lack of magic with determination and hard work. The series is praised for its action-packed battles, character growth, and exploration of underdog themes. It has garnered a dedicated fanbase for its energetic and fast-paced storytelling.
16. Tokyo Revengers
“Tokyo Revengers” follows Takemichi Hanagaki, a man who discovers he can time travel and uses this power to prevent a tragedy involving his former girlfriend. The series combines elements of time travel, delinquency, and personal growth. It is well-regarded for its engaging plot twists, character development, and exploration of the consequences of one’s choices.
17. Jujutsu Kaisen
“Jujutsu Kaisen” follows Yuji Itadori, who becomes involved in a world of curses and sorcery after consuming a cursed object. He joins a secret organization to battle curses and save humanity. The anime is praised for its stunning animation, intense battles, and well-designed supernatural powers. It has received critical acclaim for its action sequences and character dynamics.
18. Steins;Gate
“Steins;Gate” revolves around a group of friends who accidentally discover a way to send messages to the past, leading to unintended consequences. The series explores complex time travel concepts, character relationships, and the butterfly effect. It is celebrated for its intricate storytelling, character development, and thought-provoking themes.
19. Made in Abyss
“Made in Abyss” follows Riko, a young girl who descends into the Abyss, a mysterious and dangerous chasm, to find her mother. The anime is known for its breathtaking world design, dark and atmospheric tone, and exploration of the unknown. It has received critical acclaim for its unique setting and emotional depth.
20. Mob Psycho 100
“Mob Psycho 100” centers on Shigeo Kageyama, a powerful psychic who aims to live a normal life despite his extraordinary abilities. The series combines supernatural action with humor and explores themes of personal growth and self-acceptance. It is praised for its dynamic animation, character development, and the way it tackles the idea of power and responsibility.
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