The 2020s have been an incredible time for anime. In just a few years, fans have seen everything from emotional fantasy stories and action-packed adventures to gripping thrillers and heartwarming slice-of-life series. No matter your favorite genre, this decade has produced plenty of memorable shows.
This list isn’t just about the biggest hits. It also includes critically acclaimed series, fan favorites, standout originals, and one breakout donghua that has earned global attention. Chosen for their quality, lasting popularity, and impact on the anime community, these are the best anime of the 2020s that are still worth watching today.
1. Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End Is a Fantasy Masterpiece That Redefines the Hero’s Journey
Most fantasy anime focus on the adventure itself, but Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End asks what happens after the heroes save the world. Instead of building toward the final battle, the story begins after the Demon King has already been defeated. The series follows Frieren, an elf mage with an incredibly long lifespan, as she slowly realizes how little time she truly spent with the human companions who meant the most to her.
That unique perspective is what makes Frieren one of the defining anime of the 2020s. Rather than relying on nonstop action, the series explores themes of grief, friendship, regret, and the value of making memories before it is too late. Every new journey reminds Frieren of the people she once traveled with while helping her build meaningful relationships with a new generation of companions.
The anime also delivers stunning visuals and beautifully animated magic battles whenever the story calls for them. However, its greatest strength is its quiet storytelling. Small conversations and emotional moments often leave a bigger impact than the biggest fights.
2. Jujutsu Kaisen Raised the Standard for Modern Battle Shonen Anime
Jujutsu Kaisen quickly became one of the biggest anime of the 2020s by taking familiar battle shonen ideas and giving them a fresh twist. The story follows Yuji Itadori after he becomes Ryomen Sukuna’s vessel, forcing him into the dangerous world of jujutsu sorcerers.
What separates Jujutsu Kaisen from many other action anime is its willingness to surprise viewers. Popular characters are never guaranteed to survive, major story developments happen without warning, and every battle feels unpredictable. The series constantly raises the stakes while giving nearly every important character time to shine.
Studio MAPPA played a huge role in the anime’s success. The fluid animation, fast-paced fight choreography, and impressive visual effects made battles like the Shibuya Incident some of the most talked-about action sequences in modern anime. Every major episode generated discussion across social media and quickly became a favorite among fans.
3. Chainsaw Man Brought a Bold New Style to Dark Shonen Anime
Chainsaw Man proved that mainstream shonen anime could still take creative risks. Based on Tatsuki Fujimoto’s popular manga, the series follows Denji, a teenager who has spent his life trapped in poverty before becoming a human-devil hybrid with the power to transform into Chainsaw Man.
While the series is packed with brutal action and supernatural horror, Chainsaw Man’s biggest strength is its characters. Denji is driven by simple dreams that gradually become more meaningful as he experiences friendship, loss, and betrayal. His personal struggles give the story an emotional core that balances its violent and unpredictable world.
Studio MAPPA approached the adaptation with a cinematic style that helped Chainsaw Man stand out from other anime. Detailed backgrounds and realistic character acting gave many scenes the feeling of a live-action film. Although the slower pacing surprised some viewers, many praised the adaptation for staying true to Fujimoto’s unique storytelling style.
Chainsaw Man also became one of the internet’s biggest anime sensations.
4. Vinland Saga Delivers One of Anime’s Greatest Stories About Growth and Redemption
Vinland Saga begins as a brutal Viking revenge story, but it gradually transforms into something much deeper. The series follows Thorfinn, a young warrior who dedicates his life to revenge after losing his father. As the story progresses, he is forced to question everything he once believed about violence, strength, and honor.
The biggest reason Vinland Saga stands out is its character development. Thorfinn’s journey from an angry child seeking revenge to a man searching for peace is one of the strongest character arcs in modern anime. Instead of celebrating endless battles, the series explores the consequences of war and asks whether true strength comes from fighting or choosing not to fight.
Both seasons feature excellent storytelling, memorable characters, and beautiful animation that brings medieval Europe to life. While the first season focuses on action and political conflict, the second slows down to explore personal growth, forgiveness, and finding purpose beyond revenge.
Vinland Saga has earned widespread praise for its mature writing and emotional storytelling. It appeals not only to action fans but also to viewers looking for character-driven drama.
5. Solo Leveling Sets a New Standard for Manhwa Anime Adaptations
Solo Leveling became one of the biggest anime hits of the 2020s by successfully bringing one of the world’s most popular manhwa to television. Before the anime premiered, Chugong’s story had already built a massive global fanbase through its web novel and webtoon. The adaptation introduced that world to an even larger audience, turning Solo Leveling into one of the most-watched action anime in recent years.
The story follows Sung Jinwoo, a hunter known as humanity’s weakest fighter. After surviving a deadly dungeon, he gains a mysterious system that allows him to grow stronger with every battle. Watching Jinwoo evolve from an E-Rank hunter into one of the world’s most powerful warriors is one of the anime’s biggest strengths. Every new fight raises the stakes while showing just how far he has come from his humble beginnings.
A-1 Pictures delivered an adaptation that matched fans’ high expectations. The fluid animation, impressive visual effects, and exciting action sequences brought many of the manhwa’s most iconic moments to life. Battles against powerful monsters quickly became highlights of the series, especially during the second season, which received widespread praise from viewers.
6. Mob Psycho 100 Balanced Incredible Action With a Heartwarming Coming of Age Story
Mob Psycho 100 stands out because it never treats superpowers as its most important feature. Instead, the series focuses on personal growth, emotional maturity, and learning how to connect with others. The story follows Shigeo Kageyama, better known as Mob, a quiet middle school student with extraordinary psychic abilities who wants to live a normal life.
Unlike many powerful anime protagonists, Mob has no interest in becoming famous or proving he is stronger than everyone else. His biggest challenge is understanding his own emotions and building confidence without depending on his psychic powers. That simple idea gives the series an emotional depth that separates it from many action anime.
Studio Bones elevated the story with some of the most creative animation of the decade. Every major psychic battle is filled with unique visual effects, imaginative action choreography, and expressive character animation. The fights are exciting, but they never overshadow the emotional journey at the center of the story.
Across three seasons, Mob Psycho 100 consistently balances comedy, action, and heartfelt character moments. Mob’s relationship with his mentor Reigen, his friendships, and his determination to become a better person make every season feel meaningful. The series also knows when to end, delivering a satisfying finale that many fans consider one of the strongest anime endings in recent years.
7. Kaiju No. 8 Proved Adult Heroes Can Shine in Modern Shonen Anime
Kaiju No. 8 brought a refreshing change to the action genre by focusing on an older protagonist instead of another teenage hero. The story follows Kafka Hibino, a man in his thirties who once dreamed of joining Japan’s Defense Force but ended up working as part of a cleanup crew that removes giant monster remains after battles.
Kafka’s life changes when he unexpectedly gains the ability to transform into a powerful kaiju. Instead of giving up on his childhood dream, he decides to take one last chance at becoming a Defense Force officer while hiding his dangerous new secret. His journey feels relatable because it is built around second chances, missed opportunities, and refusing to give up even later in life.
The anime combines large-scale monster battles with strong character relationships and plenty of humor. Production I.G delivered impressive animation that captures the massive scale of every kaiju fight while keeping the characters at the center of the story. The fast pacing and exciting action helped the series attract both longtime manga readers and newcomers.
One of Kaiju No. 8’s biggest strengths is its cast. Kafka’s friendships with Mina Ashiro, Reno Ichikawa, and Kikoru Shinomiya add emotional weight to the story while giving each major battle personal stakes. Fans have also praised the series for showing that determination and experience can be just as inspiring as youthful talent.
Since its debut, Kaiju No. 8 has remained one of the most talked-about new action anime. Its mix of exciting battles, relatable themes, and an older main character has helped it stand out in a crowded genre, making it one of the defining action series of the decade.
8. Hell’s Paradise Blends Dark Fantasy, Horror, and Survival Into a Unique Adventure
Hell’s Paradise offers a different kind of shonen experience by combining action with mystery, horror, and psychological drama. Based on Yuji Kaku’s manga, the story follows Gabimaru, a legendary ninja sentenced to death, who is offered one chance at freedom. To earn a pardon, he must travel to a mysterious island and find the legendary Elixir of Life.
The island quickly becomes the true star of the series. Filled with strange creatures, terrifying enemies, and supernatural secrets, every episode creates a constant feeling of danger. Rather than relying on action, the anime builds suspense by making viewers question who can survive and what is really happening on the island.
Gabimaru is also a more layered protagonist than he first appears. Although he is known as a ruthless assassin, much of his motivation comes from wanting to reunite with his wife and leave his violent past behind. His relationship with executioner Sagiri creates some of the story’s strongest emotional moments while exploring themes of redemption, trust, and the value of life.
Studio MAPPA brought the series to life with detailed animation, intense fight scenes, and striking environmental design that makes every location feel mysterious and unsettling. The unique setting helps Hell’s Paradise stand apart from many other action anime released in the same period.
While it may not have reached the same level of mainstream popularity as Jujutsu Kaisen or Chainsaw Man, Hell’s Paradise has earned a loyal following thanks to its compelling story, memorable characters, and haunting atmosphere.
9. Cyberpunk: Edgerunners Became One of the Best Anime Based on a Video Game
Cyberpunk: Edgerunners surprised both anime fans and gamers by proving that a video game adaptation could tell a complete and unforgettable story. Set in the same world as Cyberpunk 2077, the anime follows David Martinez, a teenager whose life changes after he becomes involved with a group of mercenaries in the dangerous streets of Night City. Instead of relying on game knowledge, the series tells its own emotional story, making it easy for newcomers to enjoy.
David’s journey is filled with ambition, friendship, love, and loss. As he gains more power, he also begins to lose parts of himself, creating a tragic story that keeps viewers emotionally invested from beginning to end. His relationship with Lucy adds heart to the series and gives the fast-paced action a strong emotional foundation.
Studio Trigger delivered outstanding animation that perfectly captures the neon lights, chaotic action, and futuristic style of Night City. Every fight is fast, colorful, and visually exciting, while the soundtrack helps create an unforgettable atmosphere. The series also stays focused, telling its complete story in just ten episodes without unnecessary filler.
It also renewed interest in the Cyberpunk franchise, bringing many players back to the game after the anime’s release. Even years later, it remains one of the most recommended anime for viewers looking for a short but impactful series.
10. Pluto Delivered One of the Smartest Science Fiction Anime of the Decade
Pluto stands out as one of the most thoughtful and emotionally powerful anime released in recent years. Based on Naoki Urasawa’s reimagining of a classic Astro Boy story, the series follows Europol detective Gesicht as he investigates the murders of the world’s most advanced robots. What begins as a mystery slowly grows into a powerful story about humanity, war, and the meaning of life.
Unlike many science fiction anime that focus mainly on action, Pluto builds tension through careful storytelling and memorable characters. Every new clue uncovers deeper questions about artificial intelligence, prejudice, grief, and the emotional scars left behind by conflict. The mystery develops at a steady pace, rewarding viewers who enjoy detailed storytelling and complex narratives.
The animation supports the serious tone with realistic character designs, cinematic direction, and beautifully crafted environments. Rather than relying on constant action scenes, the series allows conversations and emotional moments to carry much of the story. This slower approach gives every major revelation greater impact.
11. Dandadan Mixed Action, Comedy, Horror, and Romance Into One of Anime’s Biggest Surprises
Dandadan quickly became one of the breakout anime of the 2020s by blending multiple genres without losing its identity. The story follows Momo Ayase, who believes in ghosts but not aliens, and Ken Takakura, better known as Okarun, who believes in aliens but not ghosts. After trying to prove each other wrong, they discover that both supernatural worlds are real, leading to one bizarre adventure after another.
The anime constantly shifts between comedy, action, horror, and romance while keeping the story entertaining from start to finish. One episode may feature an intense battle against terrifying supernatural creatures, while the next focuses on awkward teenage romance or hilarious character interactions. Despite these rapid changes, the series never feels unfocused.
Science SARU’s energetic animation plays a major role in Dandadan’s success. The colorful visuals, creative action sequences, and expressive character animation make every episode feel unique. Combined with memorable music and fast pacing, the series became one of the most talked-about anime shortly after its release.
12. Spy x Family: Combined Comedy, Action, and Heart Into a Modern Anime Favorite
Spy x Family became an instant hit by bringing action, comedy, and wholesome family moments in one entertaining package. The story follows master spy Loid Forger, who must create a fake family to complete an important mission. Unknown to him, his adopted daughter Anya can read minds, while Yor secretly works as an elite assassin. Each family member hides their true identity, leading to countless funny and heartfelt moments.
Although the series includes exciting spy missions and dangerous assassinations, its strength is the relationship between the Forger family. As they spend more time together, their fake family gradually becomes a real one through trust, care, and shared experiences. These emotional moments help the anime appeal to audiences far beyond traditional action fans.
Anya quickly became one of anime’s most recognizable characters thanks to her expressive reactions, humorous personality, and memorable scenes. Her popularity helped Spy x Family reach viewers who might not normally watch anime, while the show’s lighthearted tone made it enjoyable for families and casual audiences alike.
The animation from Wit Studio and CloverWorks consistently delivers colorful visuals, expressive comedy, and exciting action sequences. Whether the story focuses on school life, secret missions, or family outings, every episode balances humor and emotion with remarkable consistency.
13. The Apothecary Diaries Became One of the Best Mystery Anime of the 2020s
The Apothecary Diaries stands out by proving that an anime does not need constant action to keep viewers engaged. Set in a palace inspired by imperial China, the series follows Maomao, a clever young apothecary with an unmatched knowledge of medicine and poisons. After being brought into the imperial court, she begins solving strange incidents that others fail to understand, using observation, logic, and science instead of fighting skills.
Maomao is one of the biggest reasons the series has become so popular. She is intelligent, curious, and refreshingly independent. Rather than acting like a traditional heroine, she approaches every mystery with calm reasoning and often uncovers secrets that no one else notices. Her unique personality makes every investigation enjoyable while also revealing the hidden politics and rivalries inside the palace.
The anime also excels at world-building. Every episode expands the lives of palace servants, nobles, and royal family members, creating a setting that feels rich and believable. Alongside its mysteries, the story slowly develops the relationship between Maomao and Jinshi without rushing the romance. Their growing bond adds emotional depth while allowing both characters to develop naturally.
14. Keep Your Hands Off Eizouken! Is a Must-Watch for Anyone Who Loves Animation
Keep Your Hands Off Eizouken! offers a refreshing story that celebrates imagination and creativity. Instead of focusing on heroes or fantasy adventures, the anime follows three high school students who dream of creating their own animated films. Together, they form an animation club and discover how much passion, teamwork, and hard work are required to bring their ideas to life.
One of the series’ greatest strengths is the way it visualizes imagination. Whenever the characters discuss their projects, their sketches and ideas transform into colorful fantasy worlds that make viewers feel as if they are watching the creative process happen in real time. These scenes capture the excitement of turning simple ideas into something extraordinary.
The three main characters each contribute different strengths to the group. Midori Asakusa supplies endless creative ideas, Tsubame Mizusaki focuses on character animation, and Sayaka Kanamori keeps the team organized by handling schedules and budgets. Their different personalities create both entertaining comedy and realistic teamwork.
Director Masaaki Yuasa’s distinctive visual style gives the anime a unique identity that stands apart from traditional school series. Although Keep Your Hands Off Eizouken! was never the biggest commercial hit, it earned widespread praise from critics, animation professionals, and longtime anime fans for its originality and heartfelt storytelling.
15. Bocchi the Rock! Turned Everyday Anxiety Into One of Anime’s Most Relatable Stories
Bocchi the Rock! became one of the biggest surprise hits of the decade by combining heartfelt storytelling with clever comedy. The series follows Hitori Gotoh, a talented guitarist who dreams of performing with a band but struggles with severe social anxiety. Joining Kessoku Band pushes her far outside her comfort zone and begins a journey of personal growth that many viewers found deeply relatable.
Although the anime is filled with hilarious visual jokes and creative comedy, it treats Bocchi’s anxiety with care and understanding. Her fears are exaggerated for laughs, but the emotions behind them feel real. Many fans connected with her desire to make friends, build confidence, and express herself despite constantly doubting her own abilities.
The music is another major reason for the show’s success. Kessoku Band’s performances feature energetic songs that quickly became popular among anime fans. The soundtrack received widespread praise and helped introduce the series to audiences who enjoy music-themed stories as much as comedy.
CloverWorks also delivered highly creative animation that constantly changes styles to match Bocchi’s emotions. The series mixes traditional animation with live-action effects, unique visual gags, and imaginative storytelling techniques that make every episode memorable.
16. Link Click Showed Why Donghua Deserves a Place Alongside the Best Anime
Link Click introduced many international viewers to the quality of modern Chinese animation through an emotional story filled with mystery and suspense. The series follows Cheng Xiaoshi and Lu Guang, two friends who use a supernatural ability to enter old photographs and temporarily relive moments from the past. Their goal is to help clients without changing history, but every mission becomes more complicated than expected.
What begins as a collection of emotional standalone stories gradually develops into a larger mystery filled with unexpected twists and difficult moral choices. Every case explores themes such as family, regret, loss, and forgiveness while asking whether changing the past is ever truly possible.
The relationship between the two main characters gives the story its emotional core. Their trust in one another is repeatedly tested as they face increasingly dangerous situations. Each decision carries lasting consequences, making every episode feel meaningful and unpredictable.
Link Click also stands out for its polished production. The animation is smooth, the music creates constant tension, and the direction keeps viewers invested throughout each mystery. These strengths helped the series gain recognition far beyond China and introduced many anime fans to donghua for the first time.
