Consider diving into anime or trying to update your watchlist with something you won’t soon forget? If you’re an old pro or still trying to determine what a “shonen” is, there’s never been a better time to experience the best of Japanese animation. From dramatic quests and wacky plot turns to action-packed adventures, these 10 must-see anime are the ideal starting point—or continuation—of your anime journey. Let’s count down, in traditional dramatic style, from 10 to 1.
10. Welcome to Demon School, Iruma-kun
Need something lighthearted and uplifting between your heavier binges? This upbeat series is a joy. Iruma, a nice kid sold by mistake to a demon, winds up at a school in the Netherworld—and somehow does just fine. It’s been described as “the cutest anime ever,” and trust us, it doesn’t disappoint. Look forward to lovable characters, wholesome mess, and plenty of heart to leave you smiling long after the credits have rolled.
9. Tomodachi Game
Trust problems? You’re in luck. Tomodachi Game draws a group of friends and puts them into an intense psychological game of deception and manipulation where money’s on the table and anything goes. It’s sick, engrossing, and will keep you guessing constantly. If you like solving mysteries and watching how far individuals will stretch when there’s money involved, this is your book.
8. Hunter x Hunter
Don’t be fooled by the initial, upbeat tone—Hunter x Hunter is a rich, complex ride that delivers emotional blows and high-tension arcs. It begins with Gon, a young boy on the hunt for his father, and eventually becomes an epic, action-packed story of mighty foes, complicated friendships, and some of anime’s greatest battles. An absolute must-see for fans of adventure with actual emotional complexity.
7. My Hero Academia
Superpowers + high school drama = never-ending thrill. My Hero Academia is all about what it takes to be a hero, told from the perspective of powerless teenager Izuku Midoriya, who gets blessed with an amazing ability. With explosive battles, emotional development, and lessons in justice and identity, it’s one of the most recognizable modern anime out there—and for a very good reason.
6. Sailor Moon
She’s not just fighting evil by moonlight—she’s changing the game. Sailor Moon didn’t just define the magical girl genre; it helped introduce anime to mainstream Western audiences. With its glittering transformations, strong friendships, and messages of love and justice, this classic still holds up. Even if you’ve never seen it, you’ve felt its influence.
5. Toradora!
If you’re a sucker for romantic comedies with substance, Toradora! is a must. This isn’t your typical romance story—it’s gritty, emotional, and full of character development. The hot-headed Taiga and clumsy Ryuuji are an unforgettable duo, and their arc from bickering to something far more meaningful is both laugh-out-loud funny and heartbreakingly sweet. It’s the kind of series that sticks with you even after the last episode.
4. Death Note
A high school student with a killing notebook, a detective with a secret, and a game of brains that rewrites cat-and-mouse fiction. Death Note is a dark, compulsive thriller that asks enormous moral questions while keeping you completely gripped. It’s lean, quick, and full of moments that you will never forget. If you’re just starting on the anime scene and want something to grab you from series one, begin here.
3. Attack on Titan
From its incendiary pilot episode to its explosive, emotionally layered finale, Attack on Titan presents one of anime’s most incendiary viewing experiences. A brutal universe, giant monsters, and a narrative that keeps the script flipped—this show is a worldwide phenomenon. It’s dark, intelligent, and binge-worthy.
2. Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba
One term: breathtaking. Demon Slayer captivated viewers with its breathtaking animation, poignant sibling narrative, and heart-racing sword battles. It’s an excellent gateway for anime newbies, with emotional heft and not too much humor or spectacle to get in the way. And that opening theme? Instant shivers.
1. Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood
If you’re only watching one anime, make it Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood. It’s got everything—world-building, emotional depth, moral complexity, epic battles, and unforgettable characters. Edward and Alphonse Elric’s journey to restore what they’ve lost is both thrilling and deeply human. This show is a benchmark for what anime storytelling can achieve, and it’s often the first (and best) recommendation for newcomers for a reason.
Whether you’re after action, drama, romance, or something that bends genres entirely, these 10 anime deliver the goods. They’re essential not just because they’re popular, but because they leave a mark—on the medium, and on the people who watch them. So grab some snacks, queue up your streaming app, and dive in. Your next favorite show is waiting.