Top 10 Anime of All Time Revealed by MyAnimeList – You Won’t Believe #1!

Enthusiasts of anime often engage in friendly competition over which series and films are superior. Everyone has distinct favorites influenced by our unique tastes and backgrounds. Some might lean towards the tranquil, everyday tales depicted in shows like “My Dress-Up Darling” or “Blue Period”, while others might crave the high-octane action of “Attack on Titan” or “Dragon Ball Z”. However, it’s important to remember that there isn’t a definitive answer as to which anime is truly the best. Or so we think. Websites like “MyAnimeList” have been gathering user ratings for years, aiming to pinpoint an ‘objectively’ superior anime.

User-generated scores serve as a significant means to evaluate the appeal and accessibility of various anime productions. It’s not surprising that users on MyAnimeList (MAL) have a keen sense for identifying high-quality series. Despite occasional buzz surrounding a series vying to unseat long-standing favorites, like Oshi no Ko in 2023, fans generally appreciate the ranking system and acknowledge the shows that have emerged victorious. Now, let’s take a look at the current top 10 series as ranked by MyAnimeList.

*Remark: The following list focuses on complete series rather than ranking them by individual seasons, which would result in a large number of entries for Gintama.

10. Kaguya-sama: Love is War (8.98)

2019 saw the unexpected debut of “Kaguya-sama: Love is War,” which astonished fans by soaring to the summit of the Top 10 list on MyAnimeList, surpassing “Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood.” Though its passionate fanbase has subsided somewhat over the years, the series continues to maintain its popularity, consistently ranking among the top 10 even in the face of fierce competition.

According to the manga penned by Aka Akasaka, Kaguya-sama: Love is War offers a more sophisticated take on the standard formula found in anime romantic comedies. The narrative revolves around Miyuki Shirogane and Kaguya Shinomya, both outstanding scholars at an elite institution, as they engage in a witty game to extract a declaration of affection from one another.

9. Bleach: Thousand-Year Blood War (9.0)

Regardless of its status among the “Big Three,” the initial release of Bleach was frequently ridiculed by the anime community and considered the least powerful among them. However, the Thousand-Year Blood War has repositioned the franchise as a notable one, even for contemporary fans who are new to the medium.

Approximately ten years following the original Bleach series conclusion, the anime titled “Thousand-Year Blood War” was produced, faithfully adapting the “Thousand-Year Blood War” storyline from Tite Kubo’s manga that marked the end of the series. TYBW, besides reconnecting Bleach fans with their beloved characters, does so in a way that elevates the animation quality that the series had always merited, garnering it immense praise from anime enthusiasts.

8. Legend of the Galactic Heroes (9.01)

Modern enthusiasts of anime might not have come across “Legend of the Galactic Heroes,” but this series, aired from 1988 to 1997, is still frequently praised as one of the top science fiction anime. This captivating show was adapted from the novels of the same name by Yoshiki Tanaka, who also penned “The Legendary Tale of Arslan.

The space opera series, “Legend of the Galactic Heroes,” chronicles the rivalry between Heinhard von Lohengramm and Yang Wen-li as they strive to expand their authority within the conflicted Galactic Empire and Free Planets Alliance. This timeless series leaves a lasting impression due to its stunning visuals, deep philosophical explorations, and nostalgic ’80s sci-fi atmosphere.

7. Hunter x Hunter (9.03)

Hunter x Hunter, penned by Yoshihiro Togashi, is a renowned anime that typically requires no preamble. Frequently cited as one of the most cherished animations from recent decades, it served as an entry point for many into the world of anime, leading them to uncover other exceptional series on this list.

If you’re among the five individuals who haven’t watched “Hunter x Hunter”, this anime (broadcast from 2011 to 2014) chronicles the adventure of Gon Freecss as he sets out on a quest to locate his absentee dad. Upon discovering that his father was a renowned Hunter, Gon Freecss becomes determined to enter the esteemed Hunters’ organization in order to find him.

6. Gintama (9.05)

Fans frequently claim that if you’ve watched “Gintama”, you’ve seen a good portion of other anime. This series, which first aired in 2006, is an action-comedy set in historical context, but what fans recall most fondly are its brilliant parodies of popular shonen series and various aspects of pop culture. Developed by Hideaki Sorachi, “Gintama” is widely regarded as one of the best comedy anime ever made (at least based on MyAnimeList ratings).

This anime chronicles the life of Gintoki Sakata, a samurai out of work in an alternate Edo era dominated by aliens. To make ends meet, he and his companions take on various freelance gigs for different clients, leading to a series of humorous escapades. Across its 367 episodes, Gintama satirizes numerous other popular anime like One Piece, Dragonball Z, Akira, Berserk, Kiki’s Delivery Service, and many others.

5. One Piece Fan Letter (9.05)

Among all the beloved anime, One Piece stands out for its immense popularity. However, it was the special OVA titled “Fan Letter,” released in 2024, that brought together both fans and non-fans of the franchise. Eiichiro Oda’s lengthy series has left a significant mark on anime history as one of the most impactful. Yet, many argue that “Fan Letter” encapsulates One Piece at its finest.

To honor the 25th anniversary of the anime, the OVA titled “One Piece Fan Letter” was created, drawing inspiration from Tomohito Ohsaki’s official novel, “Straw Hat Stories“. This heartfelt OVA, lasting approximately 25 minutes, is an adaptation that takes place after the Paramount War. It tells the story of a passionate young girl who idolizes the Straw Hat pirates and Nami. In her attempt to express her admiration before they embark on their next journey, she pens a heartfelt letter for them.

4. Attack on Titan (9.05)

From 2013 to 2023, “Attack on Titan” kept the anime community captivated, with viewers eagerly waiting each week to decipher the secrets of the Titans and Eren Jaeger’s world. Despite jokes about its lengthy conclusion, the series continues to enthrall fans who rewatch it often, seeking out subtle hints hidden in the first three seasons that foreshadow later events.

In the captivating realm spun by Hajime Isayama’s manga, I find myself immersed in the gritty world of “Attack on Titan.” Here, humankind barricades itself within colossal walls to fend off the monstrous Titans that lurk beyond. However, all too soon, two enigmatic Titans breach the outer wall, prompting my fellow man to mourn and me to vow retribution. My mother was taken by one of these beasts, so I am driven to exterminate each and every Titan, a path that leads me through darkness and danger.

3. Steins;Gate (9.07)

Fervent anime enthusiasts are familiar with the mind-bending sci-fi series, Steins;Gate, but many casual viewers haven’t had the pleasure yet. As a manga creation by Yomi Sarachi, Steins;Gate belongs to that category of shows that need repeated viewing for fans to unravel the intricate time-travel plotline. Its exceptional character growth and well-crafted narrative have undeniably secured it a top position in the anime world.

The story revolves around Rintaro Okabe and his companions, who uncover a method to send texts back in time, enabling them to reshape the future. This sets off an intriguing time-bending adventure for the characters of Steins;Gate, renowned as one of the greatest science fiction anime ever made.

2. Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood (9.10)

The widely acclaimed anime series, “Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood,” has long been recognized as exceptional by almost every member of the anime community. For quite some time, this show reigned supreme on MyAnimeList’s ranking (until another title took over the number one position). While it might not require an introduction, given its popularity, we’ll provide one here just in case you’ve been out of touch with pop culture for the past two decades.

Starting in 2009, I’ve been watching Studio Bones’ anime adaptation of Hiromu Arakawa’s manga. This captivating series centers around two exceptional brothers who, in a desperate bid to revive their deceased mother, unwittingly inscribed themselves with permanent scars from enigmatic spells. The show remains faithful to the original’s exceptional storytelling and character growth, leaving us with one of the most beloved canine characters in anime.

1. Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End (9.31)

For individuals unfamiliar with it, the manga titled “Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End” unexpectedly rose to the top in 2023, surpassing FMA: Brotherhood. At a moment when many viewers found the fantasy genre lacking due to the excessive amount of Isekai series, “Frieren” was a refreshing change. With its engaging storyline, strong world-building, and endearing characters, those who have watched it understand why it ranks first.

According to Kanehito Yamada’s manga, “Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End” tells the story of Frieren, our elf mage protagonist, in the years following their party’s mission to vanquish the Demon King and save the world. As she roams and gains new magical knowledge, she takes on the responsibility of caring for Fern, her old comrade’s apprentice, embarking on a fresh adventure across the globe while simultaneously reflecting on her past exploits and the value they brought to her life.

2025-03-31 00:10