It’s renowned that the best genres of anime are usually those with a certain degree of action. Although there is a lot of truth in this, it’s not entirely correct because there are many more factors to an anime than just the amount of fighting scenes it shows.
Action anime are recognizable for the incredible stories and aspects such as rivalry, the consequences of betrayal, determination to protect the ones dear to you, and reaching your own goals. And let’s not forget the infamous “power of friendship” that so many anime fans make fun of for being one of the most abused cliches in animation history!
The first titles that come to your mind are probably Dragon Ball or Naruto, but there are plenty of other worthy anime that deserve mentioning as well. If you’re wondering, “What anime should I watch next?” here’s our top list with the most recommended anime for fans addicted to good plots, intense fight animation, and lots of explosions!
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Naruto: Shippuden
2007 | 500 episodes
Naruto: Shippuden is the sequel to the original Naruto anime, corresponding to Part II of the manga. It debuted on Japanese TV in 2007 and concluded in 2017 - a solid ten-year run! Naruto is back from his training with the legendary ninja Jiraiya, and we meet him two and a half years later. His story is full of plot twists, ultimate battles, betrayal, and reforms - an entertaining series full of action and redemption. However, if you want to watch Naruto: Shippuden in all its gory glory, search for the original Japanese version with English subtitles, as the American broadcast was heavily edited in parts referencing alcohol, Japanese culture, sexual innuendo, and the appearance of blood and death.
One Punch Man
2015 | 24 episodes + 12 special episodes
In a nutshell, One Punch Man tells the story of Saitama, a superhero who can defeat anyone with just one punch. But, of course, he soon gets bored by the lack of challenges and sets out to find a worthy opponent. You know, just to add a little spice to the dull life of a superhero. The first season enjoyed massive success and was praised for its unorthodox hero, fantastic animation, and kooky sense of humor.
Attack On Titan
2013 | Ongoing (80+ episodes) + 8 special episodes
Set in a post-apocalyptic world, Attack on Titan tells the struggles of humanity living inside cities surrounded by enormous walls, a defense against Titans that eat humans seemingly without reason. Everything about Attack On Titan got its fair share of praise - starting with characters and ending with the dark themes. No wonder it is beloved among critics and fans alike!
Hunter X Hunter
2011 | 148 episodes
We’ve added Madhouse’s 2011 Hunter X Hunter anime series to our list, leaving the original adaptation, released in 1999, out. Why? Well, simply because this second edition tried its best to stick to the events from the manga by Yoshihiro Togashi. And we do love ourselves an accurate adaptation! Hunter X Hunter follows Gon Freecss - a young boy about to take the Hunter examination to become licensed to track secret treasures, rare beasts, and other individuals. And that’s basically enough to know that the plot will be soaked in action and adventures.
Hands down the best anime to watch both the 2011 and 1999 ver. Love the Sailor Moon cameos n such
My Hero Academia
2016 | Ongoing (100+ episodes) + 5 special episodes
In a world where most humans develop superpowers at a very young age, a boy named Izuku Midoriya is one of the few who never developed any powers. But that’s not enough to stop him from enrolling in a prestigious hero academy. Now, the promising freshman is making his debut at the world-renowned UA Academy. My Hero Academia won’t disappoint you, as it earned its fame as one of the best action anime of the last decade!
Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood
2009 | 64 episodes + 4 special episodes
The steampunk series Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood is indeed one of a kind. It follows the story of two brothers - Edward and Alphonse Elric - who are both aspiring alchemists, traveling the world and learning the secrets of their craft. But it’s not so simple and rosey, of course, as the brothers’ failed attempt to bring their deceased mother back to life ends up horribly, and that’s exactly the point where all of their dark adventures begin. The heroes have zero time to relax with deep government conspiracies and unbelievable quests. If you’re not sure which action anime to watch, you can’t go wrong with this one!
Tokyo Ghoul
2014 | 48 episodes + 2 special episodes
Tokyo Ghoul takes place in an alternate universe where ghouls, creatures that can only survive by eating human flesh, live among the human population in secrecy, hiding their true nature to evade pursuit from the authorities. Ken Kaneki, a college student, barely survives a deadly encounter with a date who reveals herself as a ghoul. After recovering, Kaneki discovers that he underwent surgery that transformed him into a half-ghoul, and now, like normal ghouls, he must consume human flesh to survive.
Naruto
2002 | 220 episodes
Adapted from a comic by Masashi Kishimoto, this animated hit follows the adventures of Naruto Uzumaki, a mischievous adolescent boy who is determined to become a Hokage, the ninja in his village who is acknowledged as the leader and the strongest of them all. The episodes are based on the first twenty-seven volumes in Part I of the manga, while some feature original, self-contained storylines.
Bleach
2004 | 366 episodes + 2 special episodes
Ichigo Kurosaki is not just some simple dude, but a man who obtained the powers of a Soul Reaper. Now, Ichigo takes the duty of defending humans from evil spirits and safely guiding newly departed souls into the afterlife. Although this adventure anime series strays a bit from the original manga, the gist is still the same. All in all, Bleach has all the ingredients that made it into a very successful adaptation - there’s the supernatural, comedy, action, and even a bit of romance. Catch up with this hit series as soon as possible because a new season is set to premiere next October!
The Seven Deadly Sins
2006 | 100 episodes + 3 special episodes
Every episode of the Seven Deadly Sins anime is like a small, self-contained adventure. The main protagonists are a group of knights representing the seven deadly sins. Although The Seven Deadly Sins falls under the shonen (youth-oriented) category, the series’ graphic violence and fan service prove it to be anything but a kiddie show.
Demon Slayer: Kimetsu No Yaiba
Cowboy Bebop
1998 | 26 episodes
Set in 2071, Cowboy Bebop is a neo-noir science fiction anime that follows a bounty-hunting crew and their adventures of capturing wanted criminals. But it’s not all just fun and games, as the most prominent topics in Cowboy Bebop are those of existential indifference, loneliness, and the inability to escape your own past. Since its release, Cowboy Bebop has been consistently named one of the best animated series ever because of the animation style, characters, story, voice acting, and soundtrack, making it a huge commercial success.
Akame Ga Kill!
2014 | 24 episodes
Akame Ga Kill centers around Tatsumi, a young country boy who moves to the Capital to raise money for his home. Upon arriving, he discovers that the system is rotten and corrupt beyond repair. Out of exasperation, Tatsumi becomes a recruit for an assassin group called Night Raid battling against the Empire. Plenty of chilling moments, near-death experiences, and thrilling adventures! But, besides that, this anime series is also a brutal commentary on corruption and various social issues.
Fairy Tail
2009 | 328 episodes + 9 special episodes
If you are looking for a fantasy world with characters that are out of this world, then you have come to the right place! Lucy, an aspiring Celestial Wizard, becomes a friend and ally to powerful wizards Natsu, Gray, and Erza, who are part of the infamous wizard guild, Fairy Tail. The author Hiro Mashima revealed he based Natsu Dragoneel’s feisty personality on himself when he was a teenager.
Assassination Classroom
2015 | 49 episodes
The story here is quite an unusual one. It follows the daily life of a powerful octopus-like alien working as a junior high teacher. The creature’s students are tasked to assassinate him, as asked by their government, thus trying to prevent the planet’s obliteration. And who’s gonna teach them how to use weapons and strategy to kill him? The professor himself! This popular anime series can sound like it oversteps the “weirdness line”, but trust me here: there’s no way to stop binge-watching Assassination Classroom.
Dragon Ball Z
1989 | 291 episodes + 9 special episodes
Dragon Ball Z is the sequel series to the 1986 original adaptation. It picks up five years after the Dragon Ball series, with Goku now an adult and a father to Gohan! With the help of other powerful fighters, Goku defends the Earth from extraterrestrial enemies. Get ready for a long journey through the plotlines and events that made Dragon Ball Z so iconic!
One Piece
1999 | Ongoing (1000+ episodes)
Based on the manga by Eiichiro Oda, One Piece is one long watch as, since its release in 1999, it has aired over 1000 episodes. Now that’s impressive! The series follows the adventures of Monkey D. Luffy, a boy whose body gains rubber-like qualities after he unintentionally eats a Devil Fruit. His main quest is to find the ultimate pirate treasure, known as One Piece, to become the next pirate king. Of course, Luffy isn’t alone on his adventures and is followed by the Straw Hat Pirates. And although One Piece has been running for 22 years as of today, the series still holds its position as one of the most-watched animes worldwide. Longevity to be envious of!
Black Clover
2017 | 170 episodes
Asta is a boy who lives in a world where seemingly everyone has a magic power but him. One day, Asta gains a powerful grimoire and sets out to become the next Wizard King despite having no magic in him. In January 2021, Crunchyroll revealed that Black Clover was its most-watched series of 2020, and if that’s not a quantifier for an excellent watch, we don’t know what is!
Mob Psycho 100
2016 | 25 episodes + 2 special episodes
A series worth watching! Mob Psycho 100 follows the story of Shigeyo Kageyama - a pretty average schoolboy with a lack of presence. Although he looks like a meek person, he’s actually a powerful esper with vast psychic abilities. A train of miseries follows Shigeyo and his suppressed emotions threaten to unleash his hidden powers, but he meets other espers right at the tipping point. The series got praised for its unusual visual style, character story, and the concepts of heroism and society. And you know what the best part is? A third season is coming soon!
Code Geass: Lelouch Of The Rebellion
2006 | 50 episodes + 9 special episodes
Code Geass: Lelouch Of The Rebellion is one of those pretty rare anime series that is not based on a manga but is actually an original concept of its own. The action is set in an alternate timeline, and the story centers around an exiled prince, Lelouch VI Britannia. Upon meeting a mysterious woman, C.C., he obtains a supernatural power known as Geass. Right then and there, he starts a rebellion against the rule of the Holy Britannian Empire, battling it with a series of mecha attacks. Since its release, Code Geass has garnered plenty of favorable critics’ reviews and gained a myriad of devoted fans.
Sword Art Online
Noragami
2014 | 25 episodes + 4 special episodes
Noragami follows the story of Yato, a forgotten minor god seeking to gain enough money to build his own temple. His life changes when he teams up with a human girl he saved. Along with Yato’s Regalia, Yukine, the trio goes through many adventures struggling with their friendship, identity, and pasts. Get ready to jump into an alternate reality occupied by demons, deities, and gods!
Seraph Of The End
Fullmetal Alchemist
Jujutsu Kaisen
No Game No Life
Is It Wrong To Try To Pick Up Girls In A Dungeon?
Vinland Saga
Fate/Zero
Soul Eater
Parasyte: The Maxim
Ranma ½
The Devil Is A Part-Timer!
Gintama
The anime you can watch only after watching all the other anime on the list and more. Skip the first 2 episodes they are anime fillers.
Neon Genesis Evangelion
Shaman King
Black Cat
No. 6
Mobile Suit Gundam 00
Corpse Party Tortured Souls
Yeah this made me cry actual tears. So if ya want a good cry I guess
Samurai Champloo
Yu Yu Hakusho
Black Lagoon
86 Eighty-Six
Nura: Rise Of The Yokai Clan: Demon Capital
God Eater
Initial D
Danganronpa The Animation
Mobile Suit Gundam Wing
Mobile Suit Gundam Wing
Ushio & Tora
Terror In Resonance
The Detective Is Already Dead
Psycho-Pass
The Irregular At Magic High School
Dragon Ball Super
The God Of High School
Chivalry Of A Failed Knight
Darling In The FranXX
Deadman Wonderland
Gangsta
Angel Beats!
Highschool Of The Dead
Kenichi: The Mightiest Disciple
Nura: Rise Of The Yokai Clan
Mirai Nikki
Ajin: Demi Human
Wolf's Rain
Kingdom
Trinity Blood
Love, Chunibyo & Other Delusions!
Danganronpa 3: The End Of Hope's Peak High School
Girls Und Panzer
The Big O
.hack//Legend Of The Twilight
City Hunter
Slayers Next
Shonen Onmyouji
Guardian Of The Spirit
Magi: The Labyrinth Of Magic
Berserk
Overlord
Demon Slayer: Kimetsu No Yaiba The Movie: Mugen Train
Magi: The Kingdom Of Magic
Hellsing Ultimate
Black Butler
Trigun
Hellsing
K
Rurouni Kenshin
High School DxD
Darker Than Black
Tokyo Revengers
Guilty Crown
D.Gray-Man
Future Diary
Fate/Stay Night
Tower Of God
Re:ZERO − Starting Life In Another World
Yona Of The Dawn
Jojo's Bizarre Adventure
Black Bullet
Afro Samurai
Gate
Gurren Lagann
Durarara!!
Bofuri: I Don’t Want To Get Hurt, So I’ll Max Out My Defense
Hajime No Ippo
The Saga Of Tanya The Evil
Problem Children Are Coming From Another World, Aren't They?
Claymore
Elfen Lied
Tokyo Ravens
Edens Zero
Btooom!
Strike The Blood
Ghost In The Shell: Stand Alone Complex
Reborn!
Aesthetica Of A Rogue Hero
Another
Aldnoah.Zero
Baki
Date A Live
Kemono Jihen
World Trigger
Full Metal Panic!
Chrome Shelled Regios
Campione!
Certain Magical Index
Shakugan No Shana
No Guns Life
Ghost In The Shell: Stand Alone Complex
Baki The Grappler
Is This A Zombie?
Pandora Hearts
Devilman Crybaby
Ninja Scroll
RWBY
Record Of Ragnarok
07 Ghosts
Baccano!
Blast Of Tempest
Aoharu X Machinegun
Sekirei
Phantom: Requiem For The Phantom
Full Metal Panic? Fumoffu
Fist Of The North Star
Eureka Seven
Mobile Suit Gundam Seed
Golden Kamuy
Children Of The Whales
Heaven's Lost Property
Katanagatari
Vivy: Fluorite Eye's Song
Freezing Vibration
FLCL
Chaika: The Coffin Princess
Puella Magi Madoka Magica
Black Rock Shooter
Terra Formars
Gungrave
Yasuke
Beyblade: Metal Fusion
Rave Master
Fena: Pirate Princess
Super Crooks
SSSS.gridman
Shenmue The Animation
Flame Of Recca
Danganronpa 2: Goodbye Despair
Ga Rei Zero
Zombie-Loan
Toriko
Zetman
Aquarion Evol
Speed Grapher
Le Chevalier D'Eon
Canaan
Valvrave The Liberator
Blassreiter
Bobobo-Bo Bo-Bobo
IGPX: Immortal Grand Prix
Birdy The Mighty Decode
Rune Soldier
some of these I would never EVER recommend to a first time anime watcher lmao. Some of these shows are absolute peak, whereas a lot of these are just straight up trash. If you want a recommendation for a first time anime I'd really recommend Great Pretender on Netflix, and then I'd point you towards this list for a second or third anime
some of these I would never EVER recommend to a first time anime watcher lmao. Some of these shows are absolute peak, whereas a lot of these are just straight up trash. If you want a recommendation for a first time anime I'd really recommend Great Pretender on Netflix, and then I'd point you towards this list for a second or third anime