Discover Best Anime Series Since 2005 -

Anime’s influence on global pop culture has never been stronger, with new fans discovering its diverse worlds every day. While some series grab headlines with their groundbreaking animation or explosive action, others quietly redefine genres or leave a lasting emotional impact. From shonen blockbusters to thought-provoking dramas and quirky comedies, here’s a look back at some of the most enduring and beloved anime of the past two decades.

1. Demon Slayer

Demon Slayer stands at the forefront of the current generation of shōnen mega-hits, a testament to its standard-setting quality. While its narrative follows a familiar genre path, Studio Ufotable’s breathtaking animation has elevated its presentation to an unparalleled standard.

Despite a somewhat mixed reception for its fourth season, Demon Slayer’s upcoming Infinity Castle trilogy of films is poised to surpass the monumental success of its 2020 predecessor, Mugen Train. This series has undeniably played a significant role in anime’s skyrocketing popularity throughout the 2020s.

2. The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya

For veteran anime fans, Haruhi Suzumiya is an instantly recognizable name, synonymous with the spread of otaku culture in the West. Though newer fans might have missed the “Haruhiism” craze, 2006’s The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya sparked a phenomenon that swept through the anime community and influenced many prominent figures in the industry. This sci-fi comedy slice-of-life series offers something for fans across various genres.

While some elements show their age, its narrative choices remain daring and fresh nearly two decades later. Notably, Chainsaw Man author Tatsuki Fujimoto credits Haruhi with turning him into an otaku, and his most popular work includes direct references to the series.

3. Violet Evergarden

Kyoto Animation has a strong legacy of producing outstanding anime, and 2018’s Violet Evergarden is a shining example. Its absolutely stunning visuals combined with emotionally charged storytelling create an incredibly enjoyable experience from beginning to end—even if it does prompt a few tears.

Violet Evergarden also features one of the best anime soundtracks in recent memory, composed by Evan Call, who continues to impress audiences with his work on the 2023 hit Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End. The 2020 film, Violet Evergarden: The Movie, provides a satisfying conclusion to the anime’s exquisite 13 episodes.

4. Code Geass

Since its hugely popular and critically acclaimed finale in 2008, Code Geass has remained one of the most cherished anime titles of the 2000s. For nearly two decades, this flashy mecha series has captivated viewers with its intricate mysteries and complex themes, serving as an ideal entry point into more mature anime for generations of fans.

Code Geass skillfully blends political intrigue with gripping action, and its antihero protagonist allowed the series to thrive during anime’s “edgier” period in the mid-2000s. Its finale consistently ranks among the greatest anime endings of all time, a testament to its lasting impact.

5. Bakemonogatari

Despite a somewhat divisive initial reception, Bakemonogatari has largely cemented its status as a classic within the broader anime community since its 2009 release. The series’ fast-paced, visually distinctive style and intriguing core mystery have consistently drawn in viewers. It follows high schooler Koyomi Araragi, who discovers his classmate Hitagi Senjogohara is inexplicably weightless after a chance encounter.

What unfolds is a highly entertaining narrative that thrives on the dynamics between its well-developed characters. While the buzz around the Monogatari series may have quieted in recent years, the 2009 anime remains as fresh and compelling today as it was upon its debut.

6. Haikyuu!!

When discussions turn to the greatest anime series of all time, the sports genre often doesn’t receive the recognition it deserves, despite offering a wealth of top-tier titles. However, over the past two decades, Haikyuu!! has consistently stood out as a premier example. The series vividly brings the game of volleyball to life, excelling during its dramatic, often exaggerated, and lengthy in-game sequences. The action is compelling because of the strong cast at the heart of Haikyuu!!’s narrative, and its portrayals of teamwork and unwavering dedication are undeniably inspiring.

7. Your Lie in April

Among the many anime subgenres that have risen in popularity over the last 20 years, music-focused shows have evolved from a niche category to a seasonal staple. However, Your Lie in April distinguishes itself from its contemporaries by prioritizing character drama over the music itself. The series masterfully explores themes of grief, loss, and overcoming deep-rooted trauma through its two main musicians, Kosei Arima and Kaori Miyazono. Your Lie in April is an intensely emotional watch, and its devastating twist ending has resonated with fans for over a decade.

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8. Clannad

Kyoto Animation’s impressive two-decade legacy includes what many consider its greatest work: Clannad. While the first season unfolds like a typical visual novel romance adaptation, it’s with the advent of Clannad After Story that the series delivers a truly gut-wrenching emotional experience.

Unusually for the genre, Clannad follows its main couple far beyond their school days and into adulthood, offering a raw and honest depiction of the challenges young couples face as they begin their lives together. With its emotionally charged narrative and an exceptional soundtrack, Clannad continues to move audiences a decade and a half later.

9. Odd Taxi

Odd Taxi’s unique world of anthropomorphic animals has unfortunately proven a tough sell for some audiences since its 2021 premiere, which is a shame given the series’ exceptional quality.

Following Hiroshi Odokawa, a middle-aged walrus taxi driver, Odd Taxi delves into a myriad of human themes, particularly exploring the complex nature of social connections. The protagonist’s past trauma significantly impacts his ability to form relationships, yet his job allows him to converse and engage socially. The series masterfully introduces a series of complex mysteries that compel viewers to invest fully. Odd Taxi stands as one of the best, and arguably most underrated, anime series of the last 20 years.

10. Gurren Lagann

From the studio behind the legendary Neon Genesis Evangelion, 2007’s Gurren Lagann is widely regarded as one of the greatest mecha series of all time. It follows Simon and his best friend Kamina, whose endlessly entertaining dynamic drives them to breach the surface of their dystopian Earth and reclaim the planet.

Gurren Lagann is celebrated for its stylish visuals and explosive action, but its core themes of perseverance, overcoming immense odds, and the indomitable power of the human spirit have resonated with viewers for nearly 20 years, solidifying its place as a standout mecha series of the last two decades.

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11. JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure

Nearly every aspect of JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure makes it an unlikely success story in anime, yet its immense popularity is undeniable. David Production’s masterful adaptation, which began in 2012, has consistently entertained viewers with its multi-part story following different generations of the eccentric Joestar family.

JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure boasts a distinctive art style, incredibly charismatic characters, and wildly creative battle sequences, all combining to form a truly wild ride of an anime series. It’s an unforgettable blend of the silly and the overly serious, almost guaranteed to win over its audience. The anime’s next season, covering Part Seven, Steel Ball Run, is currently in production.

12. A Place Further than the Universe

On the surface, A Place Further than the Universe might appear to be just another slice-of-life show about high school girls on a whimsical adventure. However, it soon delves into more mature themes, taking viewers on a beautifully inspiring journey. The series follows Mari Tamaki, who agrees to join Shirase Kobuchizawa on an expedition to Antarctica in search of Shirase’s missing mother. A Place Further than the Universe thoughtfully touches on subjects like grief and loss while delivering an uplifting tale focused on the fleeting yet powerful nature of youth.

13. Puella Magi Madoka Magica

At first glance, Puella Magi Madoka Magica seems like a typical magical girl series—and that’s by clever design. However, it doesn’t take long for the show to reveal its true, darker nature. Madoka Magica’s unflinching exploration of the grimmer aspects of the magical girl genre has shocked and captivated viewers for nearly 15 years, and its impact continues to reverberate.

Following the titular Madoka, who becomes entangled in the world of magical girls and exposed to its horrifying secrets, the series doesn’t shy away from depicting violence and disturbing content. Madoka Magica forever altered the genre, yet few other titles have managed to match its profound intrigue.

14. Kaguya-sama: Love Is War

Romantic comedy is one of anime’s most popular genres, but even devoted fans might admit it can feel formulaic. Kaguya-sama: Love Is War stands out precisely because it turns that formula inside out. The series’ wonderfully written characters make it incredibly easy to become invested in their dramatic antics, while its comedy is executed with a precision rarely seen in the genre. Kaguya-sama offers a fresh, unique spin on the typical anime rom-com, providing endless entertainment.

15. Steins;Gate

Time travel is an incredibly challenging trope to execute convincingly, with many stories struggling to adhere to their own established rules. However, Steins;Gate masterfully delivers a slow-building, coherent, and gripping narrative centered entirely on time travel. Self-proclaimed mad scientist Rintaro Okabe accidentally invents a form of time travel, enabling him to send messages to the past as “D-mail.” The series gradually plunges into a series of mysteries that Okabe must unravel, all while desperately trying to save both his love interest and childhood friend.

16. Cyberpunk: Edgerunners

Shows based on popular video games are notoriously hit-or-miss, whether animated or live-action, but Cyberpunk: Edgerunners is a prime example of a series that brilliantly expands upon its source material with an original story. The tragic rise and fall of its protagonist, David Martinez, has captivated the hearts of even those unfamiliar with the Cyberpunk 2077 game.

Cyberpunk: Edgerunners boasts impressive visuals and a tightly written narrative that immerses viewers in a world of corruption. It delivers all the stylish flair fans expect from the cyberpunk genre, and it’s almost guaranteed to evoke a few tears. A 10-episode sequel series is currently in production by Studio Trigger and CD Projekt Red.

17. Vinland Saga

It’s rare for adaptations of prolific seinen manga series to be done well, as evidenced by classics like Berserk and Vagabond receiving either inadequate anime counterparts or none at all. Fortunately for fans, 2019’s Vinland Saga is undeniably superb. The series profoundly explores themes such as revenge, redemption, and cycles of violence, all while delivering top-tier visuals and action courtesy of Wit Studio and later MAPPA. Vinland Saga has firmly established itself as one of anime’s recent smash hits, and countless fans are eagerly awaiting its continuation.

18. Mob Psycho 100

Shōnen anime has evolved considerably over the last 5-10 years, shifting away from typical action-heavy hero’s journeys towards a new wave of character-driven narratives. 2016’s Mob Psycho 100 played a pivotal role in this change, prioritizing the growth of its protagonist over the battles he’s compelled to fight.

Shigeo Kageyama, known as Mob, is a powerful esper who, after a childhood trauma involving his abilities, forces himself to suppress his powers. Unfortunately, these powers are intrinsically linked to his emotions, leaving Mob no choice but to bury his feelings. Mob Psycho 100’s character writing is outstanding, and Studio Bones’ masterful visuals ensure that even fans of traditional battle shōnen are thoroughly entertained.

19. Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood

Since its premiere in 2009, Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood has been widely regarded as one of the greatest anime series ever created, and for good reason. The series builds upon the 2003 Fullmetal Alchemist adaptation, rectifying previous deviations and bringing the story to a conclusion more faithful to its source material.

The struggles of brothers Edward and Alphonse Elric make for one of the most compelling and heartfelt journeys in anime history, and the series’ finale has consistently tugged at the heartstrings of generations of anime fans. Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood’s extended reign atop the MyAnimeList charts finally concluded in 2024 with the explosive debut of Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End.

20. Attack on Titan

Before anime achieved its widespread prominence on major streaming services, Attack on Titan premiered in 2013 and ignited a movement that made anime “cool” to enjoy. For nearly a decade, new episodes of this post-apocalyptic dark fantasy series were a genuine event each time they aired. The tragic downfall of Eren Yeager has resonated deeply with countless fans worldwide, addressing complex themes like war, revenge, cycles of violence, and freedom.

While Attack on Titan’s finale was initially divisive upon airing, the broader anime community has largely come to appreciate it in the years since. The series has become a favorite among veteran anime fans, enthusiasts of unrelated genres, and brand-new anime viewers alike. Few shows have managed to unite the community quite like Attack on Titan did in its prime, and even fewer are likely to do so again.

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