Fantasy stories are beloved by many, from epic sagas like Lord of the Rings to more lighthearted adventures like Onward. The genre offers endless possibilities for exploration. Among various forms of animation, anime has particularly excelled in telling captivating fantasy tales. With a plethora of quality fantasy anime to choose from, it can be challenging to determine which ones to watch first. However, there are certain anime that truly shine and are considered must-watches for any fan. So, what are the best fantasy anime of all time?
Let’s check out a list of the greatest fantasy anime of all time, provided below!
1. Attack On Titan
Debuting in 2013, Attack on Titan emerged as arguably the most renowned anime of the previous decade. In its captivating inaugural episode, AoT establishes the dire state of humanity, confined behind colossal walls constructed to repel Titans – colossal humanoid creatures with insatiable appetites.
Following the heart-wrenching loss of his mother, Eren Jaeger embarks on a mission to eradicate the Titans. However, this is merely the beginning, as the plot becomes increasingly intricate. AoT has consistently grown in popularity since its initial season, culminating in a gripping final season that diverges greatly from its humble beginnings. For those seeking the best fantasy anime of all time with a darker undertone, Attack on Titan sets the standard.
2. One Piece
One Piece boasts around 1000 episodes and over a dozen movies, solidifying its status as a powerhouse within the anime industry. While Eiichiro Oda’s manga remains the ultimate way to delve into the Straw Hats’ adventures, the anime adaptation still offers a captivating viewing experience. Overflowing with creativity and vibrant characters, One Piece excels in delivering a thrilling sense of exploration that few other series can match, thanks to Oda’s unparalleled world-building skills.
Each story arc unveils a new island teeming with unique elements, characters, and conflicts, making for a captivating narrative every time. As this iconic shonen tale nears its conclusion, fans will bid farewell to a truly exceptional fantasy anime. Due to its extensive episode count, recommending One Piece to newcomers can be daunting; however, those who embrace the challenge will discover a journey well worth undertaking.
3. Mushi-Shi
Fantasy anime covers a broad spectrum of shows due to its loosely defined nature, encompassing a wide variety of themes and settings. Typically, fantasy anime are set in fantastical worlds and feature a significant amount of action. However, Mushishi breaks away from this trend by offering a unique approach.
In Mushishi, the series introduces fantastical elements into a familiar world, focusing on Ginko, a traveler in Japan who seeks out Mushi – mystical beings that inhabit the natural world. With its emphasis on standalone narratives, Mushishi stands out as a serene and visually stunning anime that seamlessly blends the magical with the ordinary.
4. Humanity Has Declined
The next name on a list of the best fantasy anime of all time is Humanity Has Declined, which explores a period in history where mankind is in decline as fairies rise to become the dominant species on Earth. These fairies, driven by their instincts, require guidance, which is offered by an unnamed woman who possesses a practical mindset.
The anime combines elements of surreal comedy, vivid imagery, and cynicism to create a unique experience. It portrays a fantastical realm caught between two eras, resulting in numerous misunderstandings and peculiar occurrences.
5. Magi
Spanning across two seasons, Magi consists of The Labyrinth of Magic and The Kingdom of Magic, along with a spin-off series called Adventure of Sinbad. Drawing inspiration from the classic tales of Arabian Nights, the anime features iconic characters such as Aladdin, Sinbad, Ali Baba, and Morgana as the main protagonists.
Magi starts off modestly in its initial season, focusing on Aladdin and Ali Baba’s adventures in towering structures in pursuit of riches. However, the series evolves significantly as it progresses. The Kingdom of Magic delves deeper into the political and social dynamics of the world, making it particularly captivating. The spin-off series also offers a delightful experience, possibly even surpassing the main storyline.
6. InuYasha
The immense popularity of InuYasha cannot be denied, as it gained a significant following in the United States after its initial airing in 2002, despite already being a massive hit in Japan. Its success was so remarkable that it even led to the creation of a trading card game. With a captivating storyline that spans over 160 episodes, the series revolves around Kagome and Inuyasha’s quest to reunite the shards of the Shikon Jewel. InuYasha holds a special place in the hearts of anime enthusiasts, and those who have yet to experience it should make it a priority to do so.
7. Hunter X Hunter
Hunter x Hunter is widely recognized as one of the most exceptional action shonen anime series to date. Initially, it may appear to follow the typical conventions of the genre, but it gradually distinguishes itself as something truly unique. Within this fictional universe, the purpose of Hunters is to delve into the mysteries of the world and occasionally confront formidable adversaries.
The broad definition of “Hunters” allows the anime to explore various narrative structures, sometimes focusing on storylines that only marginally involve the main protagonists, Gon and Killua. With its captivating power system and an impressive ensemble of characters, Hunter x Hunter stands out as an outstanding fantasy anime.
To sum up, picking a definitive “best” fantasy anime is tough! There are so many amazing series out there, each with unique worlds, stories, and characters. What resonates most depends on your personal taste. Tea Anime hope that the list provided in this post about the best fantasy anime of all time is useful for you.