10 Best Anime Series of the 2020s (So Far)

The 2010s were a turning point for anime. Streaming services made it easier for people around the world to watch, which significantly increased its popularity. That popularity has continued into the 2020s, resulting in even more fantastic anime shows, especially in the first few years of the decade. Popular series like Attack on Titan and My Hero Academia remained successful, but many new and excellent anime have also emerged, quickly becoming fan favorites.

Many popular anime series, like Demon Slayer, Vinland Saga, Dr. Stone, Kaguya-sama: Love Is War, and Fire Force, actually started in 2019, just before the 2020s began. Because of this, they don’t quite qualify for lists of the best anime of the 2020s. However, a lot of fantastic new anime did premiere in the 2020s, ranging from adventures in dungeons to thrilling supernatural stories that rival even Demon Slayer. Here’s a look at some of the decade’s biggest successes so far.

10) Solo Leveling

Even before its anime adaptation in 2024, Solo Leveling already had a dedicated fanbase, but the anime has made it incredibly popular. The story, originally a web novel and Manhwa, quickly immerses viewers in a thrilling world where hunters explore dangerous dungeons and battle monsters for rewards. The series’ unique world, with mysterious ‘Gates’ appearing, is immediately captivating. But the real draw is the protagonist’s near-death experience and subsequent awakening with a powerful ‘leveling-up’ System. The combination of mystery and intense action is what keeps so many viewers hooked. Given its massive success, Solo Leveling is sure to be considered one of the biggest anime releases of the 2020s, even with the delay of Season 3.

9) Spy x Family

Since its release in 2022, Spy x Family has quickly become popular, largely thanks to memorable characters like Anya Forger and Bond. While the show is about a spy, an assassin, and a telepath forming a fake family, it’s surprisingly more focused on comedy and everyday life. Despite this, it’s still a really enjoyable series, filled with both humor and action, and featuring genuinely touching moments as the characters grow to care for each other. Spy x Family might not be the most action-packed anime out there, but it’s well on its way to becoming a beloved classic and is likely to be remembered as one of the defining shows of the 2020s.

8) Dandadan

Released in 2024, Dandadan is quickly becoming one of the best anime series of the 2020s. It’s a fantastic show with a winning combination of genres and a really unique animation style. The characters are incredibly endearing, making the bizarre story of ghosts and aliens feel surprisingly human. The relationship between Momo and Okarun is especially great, but everyone adds a lot of humor, personality, and heart to the series. While a couple of scenes don’t quite land, the show generally does a great job of avoiding clichés. It’s no surprise Dandadan is gaining popularity – it’s easily one of the most original anime of the decade.

7) Odd Taxi

Though it only has one season, Odd Taxi is considered one of the best anime series of the 2020s. It’s notable for its high quality and surprising plot twists. While other recent anime feature animal characters, Odd Taxi uses this concept particularly well, culminating in a truly memorable ending. The mystery is expertly crafted, with careful attention to detail from both the writers and animators. This makes the final reveal incredibly satisfying, and the engaging characters make the journey to get there a pleasure to watch.

6) The Apothecary Diaries

While Odd Taxi focuses on a single intriguing mystery, The Apothecary Diaries consistently presents new, equally well-crafted puzzles. The premise of a young herbalist navigating dangerous royal politics is captivating, but it’s Maomao’s resourcefulness and dedication to helping others that truly stand out. She’s a relatable and likable character whose story sparks important discussions about social class and gender roles. Beyond Maomao, the world-building is exceptional, creating a truly immersive experience. It’s clear why The Apothecary Diaries has been renewed for a third season and is getting a movie – it’s one of the most enjoyable anime releases in recent memory.

5) Cyberpunk: Edgerunners

Netflix’s Cyberpunk: Edgerunners is widely considered their best anime yet, and one of the most exciting anime series of recent years. It quickly gained recognition, winning Anime of the Year at the 2023 Crunchyroll Anime Awards and earning a perfect score from critics on Rotten Tomatoes. While its connection to the Cyberpunk 2077 video game helped build an initial audience, the anime’s success is also due to its striking visuals and relevant themes. The series portrays a gritty, technologically advanced world that feels eerily familiar, and its complex, flawed characters are simply trying to survive. This powerful message makes Edgerunners both entertaining and thought-provoking.

4) 86 Eighty-Six

Few mecha anime are as compelling as 86 Eighty-Six, which premiered in 2021 and quickly gained a devoted fanbase, though it remains surprisingly underappreciated. The story takes place in the Republic of San Magnolia, a nation at war with a deeply flawed government that hides the truth about the conflict from its people. The series makes a strong statement by showing the government’s willingness to sacrifice those it considers expendable, leading to complex and thought-provoking discussions about morality and politics. With excellent animation and well-developed characters, it’s a shame the show hasn’t been renewed for another season. Even as a single season, it stands out as one of the most impactful anime of the last ten years.

3) Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End

Considered one of the best fantasy anime of recent years, and a standout of the decade, is Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End. Based on the manga by Kanehito Yamada and Tsukasa Abe, the series premiered in 2023 and is already gearing up for a second season. The anime faithfully captures the power of the original story. Unlike many popular anime from the 2020s, Frieren isn’t fast-paced or action-packed. Instead, it focuses on more subtle, reflective narratives. The series uses its main character’s journey to explore themes of time and what gives life meaning, resulting in a story that is often poignant, yet also offers moments of genuine hope. It’s easy to see why the show has connected with so many viewers, even earning a top spot on My Anime List.

2) Chainsaw Man

The new movie, Chainsaw Man – The Movie: Reze Arc, proves how popular the anime has become, building on the instant success of its first season. The premise – a boy who can transform into a man with chainsaws for arms and a head – was always eye-catching. But what truly makes Chainsaw Man stand out as one of today’s best anime isn’t just its exciting action and visuals (though those are great too) – it’s the thoughtful writing and powerful themes. Denji’s simple wish for a normal life, and his need for connection, feel very real. The interesting characters he meets while working with Public Safety add even more heart to a story that’s both thrilling and surprisingly moving.

1) Jujutsu Kaisen

While Demon Slayer might not be considered one of the best anime series of the 2020s, Jujutsu Kaisen currently leads the pack. The manga by Gege Akutami was already popular, so an anime adaptation was bound to happen. However, the anime isn’t just a good adaptation – it’s exceptional on its own. It perfectly captures the intense drama, well-developed characters, and humor of the series, always keeping the dangerous threat of Sukuna present. With high stakes and no character truly safe, the story is thrilling, unpredictable, and deeply emotional, making it truly unforgettable. Along with Chainsaw Man, it’s one of the decade’s standout anime.

What anime has been your favorite since 2020? Share your thoughts in the comments and discuss it with other fans on the ComicBook Forum!

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2025-12-23 05:41