10 Legendary 2016 Anime That Turn 10 in 2026 — And Still Feel Untouchable

As we navigate through 2026, the landscape of Japanese animation has evolved tremendously, yet certain best 2016 anime titles remain untouchable “monuments” in the hearts of global fans. In today’s era of booming streaming platforms, accessing content has never been easier; however, amid the endless wave of seasonal releases, dedicated viewers often find themselves returning to these classic values. The year 2016 is widely regarded as a golden age, a pivotal moment that gave birth to legendary titles that redefined entire genres for a new generation.

These series have transitioned from seasonal hits to permanent fixtures of pop culture. Whether you are a veteran fan or a newcomer looking for high-quality storytelling, revisiting these gems offers a glimpse into a year where creativity knew no bounds. Let’s take a look at the 10 masterpieces turning 10 years old this year that still retain their powerful, high-definition appeal and emotional resonance.

The Definitive List of 2016 Classics

10. The Disastrous Life of Saiki K.

Produced by J.C.Staff, The Disastrous Life of Saiki K. proves that a comedy series doesn’t need to dominate the Shonen Jump sales charts to achieve long-lasting cultural influence. The story follows Kusuo Saiki, a boy cursed with limitless psychic powers who wants nothing more than a quiet, ordinary life.

• Unique Hook: A protagonist who actively avoids being the center of attention.

• Key Features: Rapid-fire comedic timing, a colorful cast of eccentric side characters, and a delightfully illogical sense of humor.

• Legacy: Remains the perfect “comfort watch” for viewers seeking pure, stress-free entertainment.

9. Love Live! Sunshine!!

The emotional journey of Chika Takami and her group, Aqours, as they fought to save Uranohoshi High School from closure brought many viewers to tears. This sequel series successfully expanded on the foundation of the original idol phenomenon.

• Evolution: Featured deeper psychological themes and a more serious narrative tone.

• Key Features: High-energy musical performances, stunning choreography, and a narrative focused on overcoming failure.

• Legacy: Solidified the idol genre’s standing and spawned fantasy-style spin-offs that remain relevant in 2026.

8. Bungo Stray Dogs

The collaboration between Studio Bones and characters inspired by legendary literary figures resulted in an explosive success. Starting as an abandoned orphan, Atsushi Nakajima joins the Armed Detective Agency to navigate supernatural conflicts.

• Concept: Reimagining famous authors like Osamu Dazai as superpowered detectives.

• Key Features: A creative ability system based on classic literature and high-budget action sequences.

• Legacy: One of the most iconic action franchises of the 2010s that continues to expand its lore today.

7. Haven’t You Heard? I’m Sakamoto

Who could forget the effortlessly cool Sakamoto? Whether he was facing school bullies or mundane everyday troubles, he resolved every problem in the most unexpected yet stylish ways imaginable.

• Style: A masterclass in deadpan humor and “cool” absurdity.

• Key Features: Vibrant animation by Studio Deen and a surprisingly heartfelt focus on friendship.

• Legacy: A unique comedy that balances over-the-top antics with a warm, humanistic message.

6. KonoSuba: God’s Blessing on This Wonderful World!

Among the best 2016 anime releases, KonoSuba stands out for completely shattering traditional isekai tropes. Instead of an overpowered savior, we follow the selfish Kazuma and his utterly dysfunctional party.

• Satire: A brilliant parody of fantasy clichés and RPG mechanics.

• Key Features: The chemistry of the “trash tier” party—a lazy goddess, a masochistic knight, and a one-trick mage.

• Legacy: An irreplaceable icon of the comedy genre that no modern parody has managed to surpass.

You may also like:

• 2025’s Highest-Rated Anime: The Top 10 Series Fans Love
• 10 Anime That Get Better Every Time You Rewatch Them
• Upcoming Anime in 2026: 10 Most Anticipated Series and Movies Ranked

5. Yuri!!! on Ice

A global phenomenon at the time of its release, MAPPA’s Yuri!!! on Ice impressed audiences with breathtaking figure skating and its deeply human message regarding the bond between Yuri Katsuki and Viktor Nikiforov.

• Impact: Broke significant barriers for LGBTQ+ representation in mainstream anime.

• Key Features: Choreography designed by professional skaters and a moving, original soundtrack.

• Legacy: Despite movie cancellations, its artistic value remains an unforgettable part of MAPPA’s history.

4. Re:Zero − Starting Life in Another World

In 2026, with Season 4 on the horizon, fans have even greater respect for White Fox’s bold vision. Subaru Natsuki’s endless cycle of death and rebirth delivers a deeply unsettling psychological experience.

• Genre-Bending: A dark, deconstructive take on the isekai adventure trope.

• Key Features: Exceptional character development and a multi-layered, mysterious plot.

• Legacy: Elevated the “portal fantasy” genre into a work of profound artistic and psychological depth.

3. My Hero Academia

Premiering at the height of the global superhero boom, Izuku Midoriya’s journey from a powerless nobody to the top hero captivated the world. Studio Bones masterfully blended spectacular action with inspirational themes.

• Theme: The definition of what it truly means to be a hero.

• Key Features: High-octane battle scenes and a massive, diverse ensemble of student heroes.

• Legacy: Season 1 remains the legendary starting point for one of the biggest pop-culture phenomena of the century.

2. Mob Psycho 100

While other shows focused on raw power, Mob Psycho 100 won hearts through emotional growth. Using an unconventional animation style, this series is widely regarded as creator ONE’s true masterpiece.

• Visuals: Experimental and fluid animation that pushes the boundaries of the medium.

• Key Features: A touching coming-of-age story about emotional restraint and self-worth.

• Legacy: Its message about being “special” vs. being a good person is just as relevant in 2026 as ever.

1. JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure: Diamond Is Unbreakable

Taking the top spot is Part 4 of the legendary JoJo franchise. Josuke Higashikata’s adventure in the seemingly quiet town of Morioh marked a major turning point in the series’ storytelling style.

• Aesthetic: A vibrant, “pop-art” color palette that set it apart from its predecessors.

• Key Features: Mind-bending Stand battles and one of the most terrifyingly realistic villains in anime history.

• Legacy: The clearest proof of David Production’s exceptional craftsmanship and the most beloved chapter for many fans.

The lasting impact of the best 2016 anime highlights a year where studios were willing to take risks on deconstructive narratives and unique art styles. Whether it is the psychological torment of a loop or the vibrant colors of a small-town mystery, these shows have proven that true quality is timeless. As we celebrate a decade of these masterpieces, their influence continues to shape the stories we love today.