20 Best Anime Shows to Watch Right Now

Anime has something for everyone—from emotional storytelling and epic action to clever comedy and mind-bending plots. Whether you’re brand new to anime or a longtime fan looking for your next obsession, this list of the best anime shows covers timeless classics, modern masterpieces, and binge-worthy favorites across genres.

Below, you’ll find must-watch anime series with brief, spoiler-free descriptions to help you choose what to watch next.

Best Anime Shows of All Time

1. Attack on Titan

A dark, intense series set in a world where humanity fights for survival against giant humanoid creatures. Known for shocking twists, deep themes, and cinematic action.

2. Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood

A near-perfect blend of action, emotion, and philosophy. Two brothers use alchemy in a quest that explores sacrifice, morality, and the cost of ambition.

3. Death Note

A high-stakes psychological thriller where a brilliant student gains the power to kill using a supernatural notebook—and faces an equally brilliant adversary.

4. Naruto

A classic coming-of-age story about friendship, perseverance, and self-belief, filled with iconic characters and unforgettable battles.

5. One Piece

An epic pirate adventure with massive world-building, emotional storytelling, and hundreds of episodes that reward long-term viewers.

Best Modern Anime Shows

6. Demon Slayer

Stunning animation meets heartfelt storytelling as a young swordsman battles demons to save his sister and avenge his family.

7. Jujutsu Kaisen

Fast-paced, stylish, and brutal, this series blends modern horror with explosive fight choreography and charismatic characters.

8. Chainsaw Man

Dark, chaotic, and unpredictable, this anime flips shonen tropes on their head with raw emotion and graphic action.

9. Spy x Family

A wholesome and hilarious mix of action and slice-of-life, following a fake family with very real secrets.

10. Vinland Saga

A powerful historical epic about revenge, war, and the search for meaning, inspired by Viking legends.

Best Anime for Beginners

11. My Hero Academia

A superhero-inspired anime that’s easy to get into, with relatable characters, clear progression, and emotional stakes.

12. Cowboy Bebop

Stylish, episodic, and timeless, this sci-fi western blends action, jazz, and existential themes.

13. One Punch Man

A hilarious satire of superhero and anime tropes, featuring over-the-top action and sharp comedy.

14. Tokyo Ghoul

A dark introduction to anime horror, focusing on identity, humanity, and survival in a brutal world.

Best Anime for Story & Emotion

15. Steins;Gate

A slow-burn sci-fi masterpiece that evolves into an emotional, time-travel thriller with unforgettable payoff.

16. Your Lie in April

A beautifully animated, heartbreaking story about music, love, and healing after loss.

17. Clannad: After Story

Known for its emotional depth, this series explores adulthood, family, and the meaning of life.

Underrated & Hidden Gem Anime

18. Erased

A gripping mystery thriller where a man travels back to his childhood to prevent a tragic crime.

19. Parasyte: The Maxim

A smart, unsettling sci-fi anime that questions what it truly means to be human.

20. Mob Psycho 100

Visually unique and emotionally rich, this series balances psychic battles with genuine character growth.

How to Choose the Best Anime Show for You

• Love action? Start with Attack on Titan, Demon Slayer, or Jujutsu Kaisen
• Want deep stories? Try Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood or Steins;Gate
• Prefer something light? Spy x Family and One Punch Man are perfect
• New to anime? My Hero Academia and Cowboy Bebop are great entry points

The best anime shows aren’t just entertaining, they’re emotional, thought-provoking, and unforgettable. Whether you’re chasing epic battles, complex characters, or stories that stay with you long after the final episode, this list gives you plenty of top-tier anime to explore next.

Pick a genre, press play, and enjoy the journey. 🎌✨