10 Masterpiece Anime From the 2010s, Ranked

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The 2010s represented an incredibly captivating period for anime, witnessing an unprecedented surge in global popularity, technological advancements, and an abundance of cherished masterpieces that continue to multiply annually.

Many outstanding anime series from the last decade, which are still making an impact today, were produced between 2010 and 2019. The 2010s was a particularly fruitful period for anime, with numerous series helping to shape the medium. Although these series represent only a small portion of the most significant anime from that decade, they are worthy of attention as must-see gems from the 2010s.

Kyoto Animation made a name for itself as an innovator in animation during the 2000s, but some of its most remarkable productions emerged in the 2010s. One such creation, “Violet Evergarden,” which was launched in 2018, tells the tale of the eponymous child soldier who transitions to writing letters for people following the war’s end. As she journeys from client to client, her task is to capture their deepest feelings on paper. In doing so, Violet seeks to comprehend the essence behind the phrase “I love you.

Kyoto Animation’s productions are often visual marvels, but Violet Evergarden surpassed all expectations. The series unfolds against a stunning, intricately crafted backdrop, delving deeply into a rich tapestry of emotions – from the smallest, everyday pleasures to the deepest sorrows. In their honesty and variety, these feelings remind us what it means to be human.

One of the most exhilarating stories that fans have been captivated by during the 2010s, and part of the 2020s, is undoubtedly “Attack on Titan.” This series has rightfully earned its place among the most celebrated and widely-watched anime series ever made. The story is a bold, brutal chronicle of human resilience in the face of relentless oppression by the mysterious, man-devouring Titans. In many aspects, this modern masterpiece paved the way for the current wave of “dark shonen” anime.

Breaking through the boundaries of the anime fandom, the captivating series known as “Attack on Titan” managed to enthrall individuals who previously had little interest in anime, eventually becoming a worldwide phenomenon. Despite its controversial final episode, the show’s merits significantly outshine any perceived drawbacks.

The subcategory of anime known as “Cute Girls Doing Cute Things” is often overlooked and not given much critical praise, despite many series in this genre deserving recognition. Fortunately, the anime “A Place Further than the Universe” managed to change a lot of people’s perceptions about the genre by presenting a deeply moving coming-of-age story that confidently uses its “moe” style.

Exploring the challenging yet exhilarating expedition to Antarctica with a quartet of young women, “A Place Further than the Universe” drew audiences in with its deeply layered character development and authentic sense of adventure. Witnessing the protagonists evolve and transform as they chase their dreams collectively leaves viewers feeling included in their life-altering journey. The anime’s deep and multilayered characterization has earned it the distinction of being hailed as the top “cute girls” anime of the past decade.

Historically, magical girl anime has been known for its inspiring stories that align with the genre’s title. But the general perception about magical girls shifted significantly upon the release of Puella Magi Madoka Magica, a series that delves deep into the grim realities and consequences one must endure when acquiring powers capable of altering the world.

In the 2010s, “Madoka Magica” was undeniably the most significant and impactful deconstruction of the magical girl genre among its contemporaries. The storyline of Madoka Kaname commenced in a seemingly ordinary fashion, but swiftly transformed into a profound, haunting tragedy. Enhanced by Studio SHAFT’s exceptional animation techniques that blurred the boundaries between mediums, “Madoka Magica” endured as an iconic masterpiece that redefined the genre.

Shonen anime classics are a must-have for every decade of animated storytelling. Yet, the originality and complexity of “Mob Psycho 100” surpasses its intended audience’s expectations. Initially, Mob Psycho 100 might seem like just another action series, focusing on the character Shigeo Kageyama.

Despite his extraordinary abilities, the boy often finds himself grappling with ordinary challenges associated with adolescence – from unsuccessful attempts to win over a crush to wrestling with his internal emotions. Unconventionally, Mob Psycho 100, an anime series, defies typical shonen tropes and offers a profound exploration of growing up. It masterfully navigates various genres while delicately portraying a unique and relatable theme: the pursuit of individuality not through entitlement but through self-improvement.

In the realm of anime, The Tatami Galaxy, under the guidance of renowned director Masaaki Yuasa, is instantly recognizable for its distinctive and unorthodox visual approach. Each installment tells a fantastical tale, revolving around an anonymous university student, who explores the possibilities of realizing his ideal “pink-tinted campus existence” by joining various clubs in a unique, paradoxical manner.

The events unfold in increasingly strange ways, ranging from searching for legendary artifacts to untangling intricate plots, ultimately resulting in something that challenges reality itself – a testament to Yuasa’s distinctive approach. Unlike conventional anime comedies, The Tatami Galaxy is filled with flair and originality, making it essential viewing for those open to embracing the bizarre.

The central character of “March Comes In like a Lion“, Rei Kiriyama, who’s an exceptionally talented shogi player despite being orphaned, struggles to find joy in his prestigious position. His life, marked by solitude, lacks the warmth of contentment and genuine camaraderie, plunging him into profound sadness.

In contrast, “March Comes in Like a Lion” presents a somber narrative as its foundation, but it transforms into an uplifting exploration of a character’s development. This captivating anime series, which blends slice-of-life, sports, and drama, skillfully weaves together a complex yet relatable tale of growth, one that resonates with many. Although Rei is a quiet character, his deep feelings are powerfully conveyed throughout the series, making his journey as a protagonist during the 2010s a truly satisfying character arc to witness.

Yoshihiro Togashi’s famous manga “Hunter x Hunter,” which started publication in 1998, also had an initial anime adaptation in 1999. Yet, previous efforts to adapt the story of Gon Freecss’ journey fall short when compared to the exceptional 2011 adaptation by Studio Madhouse – a remarkable shonen anime masterpiece that many regard as the genre’s finest representation.

In my perspective, the realm depicted in “Hunter x Hunter” stands out for its depth and intricate design, making delving into it an unending ride of pure excitement. Even though the 2011 adaptation of “Hunter x Hunter” remains incomplete due to its ongoing source material, fans anticipate that a new season would undoubtedly be a marvel of its time, echoing the greatness of its past and setting new standards for animation.

Among all the sports anime that flourished in the 2010s, none surpassed the greatness of “Ping Pong the Animation” to earn the title of a masterpiece. Despite sharing a director with another series, “The Tatami Galaxy,” “Ping Pong the Animation” stands out as distinctly different, though both reflect Masaaki Yuasa’s exceptional artistic flair in their direction.

Ping Pong the Animation is an anime that delves into the tale of two inseparable friends, Smile and Peco, while also tackling prevalent themes found in sports anime, such as the balance between effort and natural talent, along with dealing with setbacks. However, it presents these concepts in a unique fashion. The standout aspect of Ping Pong the Animation is its unusual, visually striking animation style. Yet, equally noteworthy is the series’ exceptional character development, which skillfully creates deep and moving character arcs for multiple characters within only 11 episodes.

Often considered among the greatest science fiction anime series ever made, “Steins;Gate” delves into one of the genre’s most beloved concepts – time travel. Self-styled as a “mad scientist”, Rintaro Okabe uncovers that his latest creation can transmit messages to the past, thereby influencing the course of time. However, the ramifications of this discovery escalate into a plot much more complex than even Okabe’s wildest dreams could have envisioned.

Acclaimed for its gripping plot surprises, unexpected narrative developments, and powerfully emotional writing, Steins;Gate skillfully showcases some of anime’s finest artistic qualities. Consequently, it is rightfully titled as an enduring masterpiece, given its unique and heartfelt time travel tale.

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2025-05-12 07:07