Jump on the journey through the realms of Japanese anime can be a profoundly personal venture, with each series often leaving a lasting imprint on its audience. Among the myriad platforms, MyAnimeList emerges as a nexus where enthusiasts converge to express their admiration for their cherished series. It serves as a unique gauge of popularity, ranking titles based on the burgeoning communities rallying behind them. The “Most Popular” tab on MyAnimeList is a testament to the collective adoration of fans, offering a glance at the anime series that have touched hearts globally.
The top echelons of this list boast fan bases stretching into millions, reflecting a shared love and the unifying charm of anime. As new narratives weave into the ever-evolving tapestry of anime, they vie for a spot in the revered rankings, occasionally reshuffling the established order. Herein, we present the 25 most popular anime of all time (Feat. MyAnimeList most popular data).
25. The Seven Deadly Sins
MyAnimeList Members: 2,004,548
Dip into “The Seven Deadly Sins,” an exhilarating, action-packed anime adorned with a fantasy essence set against a medieval European-esque backdrop, notably the Kingdom of Liones. Our heroes, the Seven Deadly Sins, embody the epitome of valor as the elite Holy Knights.
Yet, fate throws them into a whirlpool of deceit as they’re wrongfully accused, and the valiant princess Elizabeth Liones stands as their beacon of hope. An apocalyptic threat unravels as shadows of their ancient adversaries, the menacing demons, and the Ten Commandments loom. It’s a race against destiny, where only Meliodas and his gallant crew harbor the ember of defiance to confront the inevitable cataclysm awaiting.
24. Akame Ga Kill!
MyAnimeList Members: 2,030,968
Tackle a harrowing journey in “Akame Ga Kill!”, a dark shonen action saga that delves into the abyss of human malevolence through visceral battles and relentless villains. Our young adventurer, Tatsumi, steps into a world rife with atrocities, only to find his call of duty among the Night Raid, a band of assassins wielding the formidable Imperial Arms.
As they challenge the nefarious Empire, every clash reveals the monstrous face of tyranny, propelling Tatsumi and his comrades into a crucible of trials that test their resolve against the grotesque reality they face.
23. Erased
MyAnimeList Members: 2,031,552
“Erased” unfolds a captivating narrative, weaving the threads of time as Satoru Fujinuma traverses back to his youth in a desperate attempt to rectify the bitter past. When accused of a crime he didn’t commit, his odyssey leads him to 1988, delving into a sinister mystery intertwined with his friend’s abduction.
Every tick of the clock is a step closer to unraveling the truth buried in time as Satoru navigates through the labyrinth of deception to save the innocent and right the wrongs that haunt his present.
22. Angel Beats!
MyAnimeList Members: 2,033,897
In a realm that blurs the lines between reality and the supernatural, “Angel Beats!” unveils a poignant tale set within a peculiar high school, a purgatorial haven for souls with unfinished business. Our protagonist, Yuzuru Otonashi, faces a surreal struggle against Angel Tachibana, the enigmatic student council president.
Yet, as veils of misconception are lifted, Yuzuru and his companions unveil a heart-wrenching reality where the path to resolution beckons, and perhaps Angel isn’t the foe she appears to be.
21. Noragami
MyAnimeList Members: 2,109,490
A tale of friendship, valor, and divine endeavors encapsulates the essence of “Noragami.” Our journey begins with the obscure deity Yato, whose fate intertwines with Hiyori Iki, a mortal with the newfound ability to perceive the ethereal.
A grander scheme unfolds as they battle malevolent spirits, embroiling them in a celestial feud among gods. “Noragami” encapsulates a whirlwind of emotions and action, portraying an enthralling storyline that places it among the stellar anime of the decade, a must-watch for any aficionado.
20. Re:Zero – Starting Life in Another World
MyAnimeList Members: 2,129,871
The realm of “Re:Zero” beckons, where the mundane life of Subaru Natsuki is flung into a fantastical reality filled with enigmatic elves and formidable foes. As Subaru navigates through the perilous world, the enigma of his existence and the curse of reliving death are entwined into a complex tapestry of mysteries and heart-wrenching decisions.
The entangled love triangle amid Subaru, the elegant half-elf Emilia, and the resilient ogre girl Rem adds a layer of emotional depth, making “Re:Zero” a masterpiece that transcends the conventional isekai narrative, etching a memorable saga in the hearts of its viewers.
19. Your Lie In April
MyAnimeList Members: 2,148,226
Engulf yourself in the poignant narrative of “Your Lie In April,” a tale that navigates through life’s melancholy and euphonic symphony. The narrative arcs around the youthful Kosei Arima, whose soul once danced to the rhythm of piano keys until the haunting shadow of abuse silenced the melody.
However, fate orchestrates a new tune as the vivacious Kaori Miyazono steps into Kosei’s life, her fervor for music rekindling the silenced notes within him. This emotive journey explores the profound facets of hope, camaraderie, and love, weaving a bittersweet melody that resonates within the heart long after.
18. Toradora!
MyAnimeList Members: 2,152,236
Delve into the whimsical romantic tale of “Toradora!” where love blossoms amidst humor and heartfelt drama. Our gentle protagonist, Ryuji Takasu, finds his heart fluttering for the spirited Minori Kushieda. At the same time, the feisty Taiga Aisaka cherishes a soft corner for Ryuji’s friend, Yusaku Kitamura.
What unfolds is a comical yet touching exploration of adolescent love as misunderstandings and emotions entangle, leading to a path of self-discovery and genuine affection. The nuanced portrayal of young love and the comedic yet touching escapades make “Toradora!” a cherished gem in the romantic comedy genre.
17. Code Geass
MyAnimeList Members: 2,187,627
Unveiling a riveting tale of political intrigue and futuristic warfare, “Code Geass” catapults you into a dystopian realm where the mighty Britannia Empire subjugates Japan, now dubbed Area 11. At the tempest’s heart stands the enigmatic antihero, Lelouch Lamperouge, whose quest for vengeance fuels a clandestine rebellion.
With the mysterious power of Geass, Lelouch orchestrates a grand chessboard of insurgency, maneuvering between friends and foes in a relentless pursuit of justice. The narrative is a meticulous blend of strategic genius, emotional depth, and high-octane action, rendering “Code Geass” a paradigm of sci-fi anime.
16. A Silent Voice
MyAnimeList Members: 2,242,707
“A Silent Voice” unfolds a touching narrative that delves deep into the repercussions of bullying and the healing power of forgiveness. Our protagonist, Shoya Ishida, once the tormentor, embarks on a journey of redemption to mend the wounds inflicted upon Shoko Nishimiya, the girl he bullied.
As they navigate the turbulent waters of past grievances, a delicate bond burgeons, heralding a tale of understanding, forgiveness, and the profound impact of compassionate amends. This heart-wrenching yet uplifting saga illuminates the essence of human empathy and the path toward healing old scars.
15. One Piece
MyAnimeList Members: 2,246,854
Embark on an enthralling voyage across the boundless seas with “One Piece,” an epic saga that chronicles the adventures of the resilient pirate, Monkey D. Luffy. His unyielding quest for the mythical treasure, One Piece, to claim the coveted title of the Pirate King is a legendary odyssey filled with camaraderie, fierce battles, and the indomitable spirit of freedom.
With a narrative as vast as the ocean, “One Piece” sails through many emotions, captivating tales, and a grand tapestry of characters that have etched an indelible mark in the annals of anime.
14.No Game No Life
MyAnimeList Members: 2,339,212
Step into a fantastical realm where intellect reigns supreme in “No Game No Life.” The genius sibling duo, Sora and Shiro, known as [BLANK] in the virtual gaming world, find themselves in a vibrant new world where every discord is settled through strategic games.
They maneuver through complex challenges with unparalleled wit, aiming to conquer this enigmatic world that operates on games’ whimsical rules. This colorful yet intricate narrative not only captivates with its clever gameplay but delves into the boundless potential of human intellect when confronted with seemingly insurmountable odds.
13. Jujutsu Kaisen
MyAnimeList Members: 2,356,239
Delve into the spectral realm of “Jujutsu Kaisen,” a modern-day anime marvel that seamlessly carries the dark fantasy baton from predecessors like Bleach. Centered around Yuji Itadori, a newfound curse wielder, the narrative unveils an eerie battle against menacing curses threatening humanity.
The allure of Jujutsu Kaisen lies in its enthralling fantasy combat, meticulously crafted characters, and a balanced blend of horror, action, and humor. With its recently unveiled second season and the tantalizing “Jujutsu Kaisen 0” movie, the realm of cursed spirits and valorous sorcerers continues to enthrall the anime realm.
12. Steins;Gate
MyAnimeList Members: 2,486,896
Embark on a cerebral voyage through time with “Steins;Gate,” a riveting exploration of science and the paradoxes of time travel. The eccentric “mad scientist” Rintaro Okabe stumbles upon a bewildering mystery in Akihabara, Tokyo, alongside the enigmatic Kurisu Makise.
The discovery of a cell phone-operated microwave capable of sending D-mails through time propels them into a whirlwind of scientific adventures and high-stakes mysteries. Amidst the intriguing twists of fate, Steins;Gate delves deep into the fabric of time, offering a captivating narrative that continues to enthrall the minds of anime aficionados.
11. Your Name.
MyAnimeList Members: 2,650,769
“Your Name.” is a cinematic tapestry of emotions, intertwined destinies, and the whimsical dance of fate, solidifying its stance among the most cherished anime movies. The narrative unveils a whimsical body-swap between a Tokyo lad and a rural damsel, morphing into an emotional odyssey as Taki endeavors to find Mitsuha, the girl whose life he briefly lived.
The quest for a forgotten name spirals into a heartwarming exploration of connections that defy time and space, etching Makoto Shinkai’s masterpiece into viewers’ hearts.
10.Hunter x Hunter
MyAnimeList Members: 2,719,970
Dive into the adventurous trails of “Hunter x Hunter,” where young Gon Freecss embarks on a quest to follow in his enigmatic father’s footsteps as a Hunter. The narrative blossoms with camaraderie as Gon forges to bond with diverse yet equally ambitious companions during the rigorous Hunter Exam.
As they venture into the unknown, each trial and tribulation carve unforgettable memories and lessons, making “Hunter x Hunter” a cherished expedition through the essence of friendship, ambition, and the unyielding spirit of adventure.
9. Tokyo Ghoul
MyAnimeList Members: 2,743,362
Step into a haunting world where ghouls lurk in the shadows of human society in “Tokyo Ghoul.” The narrative unveils the harrowing tale of Kaneki Ken, thrust into the ghastly reality of being a half-ghoul after a fatal date night.
As Kaneki grapples with his newfound ghastly existence, the narrative delves into the grim yet compelling realm of Tokyo Ghoul. Adored for its heart-pounding action sequences and evocative soundtrack, Tokyo Ghoul offers a darkly enticing narrative that explores the thin line dividing humans and ghouls.
8. Naruto
MyAnimeList Members: 2,768,652
Venture on an epic journey of self-discovery, valor, and unyielding dreams with “Naruto.” The tale of young Naruto Uzumaki, an outcast yearning for acceptance and the revered title of Hokage, resonates with the hearts of many.
Alongside the vibrant ensemble of the Konoha 11, Naruto’s journey unfolds a saga replete with invaluable life lessons, the essence of friendship, and the relentless spirit of surpassing adversities. The evocative narrative and endearing characters make “Naruto” a timeless anime that inspires viewers across generations.
7. Demon Slayer
MyAnimeList Favorites: 2,893,496
Unveil a realm where demonic dread lurks in the shadows in “Demon Slayer.” The harrowing tale unfolds as Tanjiro Kamado finds his world shattered by demonic malevolence, leaving behind only his sister Nezuko, who now bears the curse of a demon.
The narrative intricately weaves the indomitable family bond as Tanjiro embarks on a perilous quest to avenge the fallen and restore Nezuko’s humanity. With its stellar animation, riveting action sequences, and a heart-tugging emotional core, “Demon Slayer” has enthralled a generation, etching its name in the annals of anime lore.
6. My Hero Academia
MyAnimeList Favorites: 2,993,745
Step into a world where heroics define one’s essence, yet amidst the powered multitude stands Izuku Midoriya, a quirkless dreamer yearning for a heroic legacy. “My Hero Academia” chronicles Izuku’s relentless pursuit of valor as the legendary All Might bestows upon him a formidable Quirk.
As Izuku navigates the tumultuous path of heroism, he forms bonds with a vibrant cadre of classmates, each chasing their heroic dreams while confronting sinister forces aiming to shatter the world’s harmony. The tale is a riveting ensemble of youthful aspiration, camaraderie, and the ceaseless fight against malevolence.
5. Sword Art Online
MyAnimeList Favorites: 2,995,503
Dive into the digital abyss of “Sword Art Online,” a narrative that enthralls with its captivating premise of a virtual reality turned deadly. Trapped in the lethal realms of SAO, Kirito chooses the lone warrior’s path until destiny intertwines him with the valiant Asuna Yuki.
Together, they navigate the perilous digital landscapes, forging an unyielding bond that resonates across the anime community. Through intense battles and heart-wrenching moments, “Sword Art Online” crafts an enthralling tale that explores the blurred boundaries between reality and the digital mirage.
4. One Punch Man
MyAnimeList Favorites: 3,116,116
Launch on a whimsical heroics adventure with “One Punch Man,” where the stoic Saitama stands as an epitome of unrivaled strength, vanquishing foes with a single punch. However, beneath the invincible facade lies a hero yearning for a challenge that could stir his stoic heart.
As the young cyborg, Genos seeks tutelage under Saitama, a narrative filled with humor, valor, and intriguing characters unfolds. Despite its comedic premise, “One Punch Man” ingeniously delves into the psyche of a hero, making it an endearing saga amidst the plethora of superhero tales.
3. Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood
MyAnimeList Favorites: 3,226,008
Traverse the alchemic trails of “Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood,” a tale of loss, redemption, and the relentless quest for truth. The Elric brothers, Edward and Alphonse, embark on a perilous journey to reclaim their original forms, unraveling a larger tapestry of secrets that threaten the world’s equilibrium.
Alongside them stands the resilient Winry Rockbell, whose narrative arc resonates with strength and empathy. The saga is a meticulously crafted narrative that explores the profound themes of sacrifice, the essence of humanity, and the indomitable spirit to confront the unknown.
2. Death Note
MyAnimeList Favorites: 3,782,284
Delve into the mind-bending realm of “Death Note,” where the veil between justice and malevolence is as thin as a paper’s edge. The tale unveils the eerie journey of Light Yagami, a brilliant yet disillusioned youth, who stumbles upon the ominous Death Note. As he inscribes the names of the unjust, a dance of death ensues, purging the world of malevolence.
Yet, every stroke of his pen drags him deeper into a perilous cat-and-mouse game against the enigmatic detective, L. The meticulously crafted mind games, coupled with a profound exploration of justice and ethics, etch “Death Note” as a cerebral thriller that continues to captivate the psyche of its audience.
1. Attack On Titan
MyAnimeList Favorites: 3,814,832
Immerse in the relentless struggle for survival in “Attack On Titan,” a narrative that unfolds in a world overshadowed by the towering menace of Titans. The serene lives of the denizens within the Walls shatter into a grim reality as Abnormal Titans breach the sanctuary of Shiganshina. Eren Yeager, scarred by the haunting smile of the Titan that devoured his mother, vows to eradicate the Titan scourge from the face of the earth.
As fate entwines him with the beasts he despises, the saga unravels a torrent of secrets, betrayals, and an unyielding quest for freedom. With its heart-wrenching twists, exhilarating action sequences, and a narrative that explores the depths of human resilience, “Attack On Titan” stands as a monumental epic in the annals of anime, earning its revered title as one of the most popular anime series of all time.