5 Great Anime That Deserve To Be Called Modern Classics

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What makes an entertainment work a ‘classic’ isn’t always clear-cut, as it depends on the type of media, its genre, and even personal taste. Different fans often disagree about what truly deserves the label. When it comes to anime, the debate can be especially lively, though certain shows are almost universally considered classics, like One Piece, Cowboy Bebop, and Neon Genesis Evangelion.

Most anime fans believe a show needs time to become a true classic, gaining recognition, influence, and a dedicated following over the years. However, several anime series from the last ten years are already being called “modern classics” – they’ve quickly reached a level of quality in storytelling, world-building, and character development usually reserved for the all-time greats. While there’s debate about what qualifies as a modern classic, this list highlights five contenders that deserve serious consideration from the anime community.

5) Jojo’s Bizarre Adventure

JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure is a bit of a divisive anime – people tend to either really love it or really dislike it. It first came out in 2012 and currently has six seasons, each covering a different part of the original manga. A seventh season, titled JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure: Steel Ball Run, is planned for release in 2026. The show is well-known for its many references to pop culture, particularly its use of famous musicians as inspiration for character names.

JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure feels like a show with a devoted following that’s destined to become a classic. Fans love its unique, colorful look, over-the-top comedy, and wildly creative storylines, which make it stand out from other action anime. The series primarily follows members of the Joestar family as they battle global threats using special powers called Stands. It’s clear that JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure has significantly impacted the anime world, and it’s instantly recognizable, solidifying its place as a modern classic and a truly memorable series.

4) Mob Pyscho 100

Mob Psycho 100 is a standout anime, consistently excellent from beginning to end. Based on a manga that started in 2012, the anime series ran from 2016 to 2022, concluding with its third season. It’s famous for its unique art style, well-crafted characters, and a great mix of action and humor. Mob Psycho 100 offered a fresh and original take on the supernatural genre, feeling truly unique and not simply a repeat of familiar ideas.

The anime Mob Psycho 100 follows Mob, a middle schooler with amazing psychic abilities, and Reigen, a con artist who initially wants to profit from them. However, the two end up working together to solve problems and help people. Despite plenty of action and comedy, the show never loses sight of its heartfelt emotional core, which is what truly captivated viewers.

3) Cyberpunk: Edgerunners

Released on Netflix in 2022, Cyberpunk: Edgerunners quickly became a modern classic thanks to its compelling story and stunning animation. The first season wrapped up the main storyline, but its popularity led Netflix to announce a second, separate season, Cyberpunk: Edgerunners 2. This series is a must-see for science fiction fans, offering a revitalized take on familiar anime themes.

Set in a violent, futuristic city controlled by gangs and mega-corporations, Cyberpunk: Edgerunners follows David Martinez as he becomes an ‘Edgerunner’ – a rebel who uses cybernetic implants to survive. After tragedy strikes, David rejects the established order and embraces a dangerous life on the edge of society. The anime explores the impact of technology on human relationships, the decline of society, and widespread corruption. Many consider Cyberpunk: Edgerunners to be one of the best short anime series of recent years, and it’s well worth watching if you’re considering it.

2) Puella Magi Madoka Magica

Released in 2011, Puella Magi Madoka Magica is widely considered a standout magical girl series. With just 12 episodes in its initial season and a follow-up movie, Puella Magi Madoka Magica the Movie: Rebellion, it successfully challenged and flipped common tropes in the genre. The show is known for its darker, more realistic take on the magical girl concept, creating a new and compelling subgenre.

Madoka Kaname is a typical middle schooler whose life changes when she meets Kyubey, a strange creature. Kyubey offers her a wish in exchange for becoming a magical girl and battling witches in another world. However, this seemingly perfect deal comes with hidden consequences and a dark truth: becoming a magical girl is far more painful and traumatic than it appears, a contrast cleverly masked by the anime’s cute and colorful animation. Puella Magi Madoka Magica is a recent anime that has quickly become a classic, leaving a lasting impact on the genre since its debut.

1) Hunter x Hunter

This list started because of Hunter x Hunter, a truly outstanding shonen anime. While an earlier anime adaptation aired in the 1990s, we’ll focus on the 2011 reboot. This version successfully captured the spirit and complexity of the original manga, fixing problems with the pacing and storylines that the first anime had. Beyond that, the reboot excels in creating a rich world and developing compelling characters, featuring some of the best interactions between a main cast you’ll find in anime.

Hunter x Hunter follows Gon Freecss, a young boy who sets out to become a Hunter in search of his father, who he thought was lost. But the show is about much more than just that – it beautifully explores themes of friendship, working together, dealing with past hurts, and never giving up. It cleverly avoids clichés without feeling contrived, and the characters’ actions always feel natural and move the story forward. If you’re looking for an anime to start watching right away, Hunter x Hunter is an excellent choice.

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2025-11-22 06:11