Over the past decade, numerous anime series have captivated audiences and garnered immense popularity. While it’s challenging to determine the absolute best anime due to the wide range of exceptional titles released during this period, there is usually one standout series each year that leaves a lasting impact. Although this list is not definitive, the following titles represent the most talked-about anime of their respective years, based on critical acclaim and viewer reception. Here are the notable anime series from 2010 to 2022:
2010: Angel Beats! – A Perfect Introduction to Anime Angel Beats! stands out as a remarkable introduction to the world of anime. Combining elements of romance, action, and comedy, this 13-episode series offers a complete package. Set in an afterlife school, the show follows characters who navigate their newfound existence, leading to emotional and intense moments that resonate with viewers.
2011: Hunter x Hunter (2011) – Mindblowing Remake The 2011 remake of Hunter x Hunter took the anime world by storm. While the original series debuted in 1999, the remake garnered immense popularity. With a compelling narrative and a diverse cast of interconnected characters, this series follows Young Gon on his quest to become a skilled hunter. Hunter x Hunter showcases intelligent and unpredictable battles, elevating it to new heights.
2012: Sword Art Online – Redefining the Isekai Genre Sword Art Online played a pivotal role in popularizing the isekai genre. Considered one of the most successful and widely acclaimed isekai anime of all time, this show expertly balances entertainment and storytelling. Set in a virtual reality role-playing game, Sword Art Online explores the fulfilling nature of the virtual world, presenting a unique take on the genre.
2013: Attack on Titan – An All-Time Anime Great Attack on Titan has earned its place among the all-time greats in anime history. Gaining international acclaim, this series defies categorization with its diverse elements and masterful pacing. Set in a world where humanity must fend off man-eating titans behind colossal walls, Attack on Titan delivers a catastrophic and gripping narrative that has captured the hearts of anime enthusiasts worldwide.
2014: Noragami – Simple yet Emotional Noragami proves that a simple story with compelling characters and emotional depth can resonate deeply with viewers. While lacking intense action sequences or grand musical performances, this anime is a beautiful piece of animation. Following the journey of a high school student whose soul becomes detached from her body, Noragami combines romance, comedy, and supernatural elements to create a captivating experience.
2015: One-Punch Man – Reigniting the Shonen Genre One-Punch Man reinvigorated the shonen genre when it debuted in 2015. With exceptional animation, engaging fight scenes, and a healthy dose of comedy, this series became a fan favorite. One-Punch Man centers around Saitama, a protagonist so overpowered that he defeats enemies with a single blow. Balancing action and humor with expertise, this show reignited viewers’ love for shonen anime.
2016: My Hero Academia – A Modern-Day Shonen Classic My Hero Academia continues to be one of the most popular anime series of the decade, with its sixth season set to release in 2022. This modern-day shonen classic stands out by emphasizing character growth and power balance. Protagonist Izuku Midoriya trains tirelessly to earn his place among the heroes, showcasing perseverance and determination. With well-paced arcs and emotional impact, My Hero Academia has left a lasting impact on fans.
2017: Black Clover – Classic Shonen Elements Shine Black Clover, often hailed as the next Naruto, gained popularity for condensing classic shonen elements into short and impactful arcs. The story revolves around Asta, who aspires to become the Wizard King. While initially appearing similar to Naruto, Black Clover distinguishes itself through its storytelling and exceptional character development, treating its side characters and villains with the respect they deserve.
2018: Violet Evergarden – A Visual Masterpiece Violet Evergarden stands as a visual masterpiece that enthralled audiences upon its release. Its breathtaking storytelling captivated viewers as they followed the journey of a young female soldier searching for purpose after a war. Each episode evokes a range of emotions, and the series delivers a satisfying and emotionally resonant narrative that leaves no viewer unsatisfied.
2019: Demon Slayer – An Emotional Journey Demon Slayer offers a complete package, blending action-packed sequences, captivating storytelling, and memorable music. The series takes viewers on an emotional roller coaster, exploring unique angles to the protagonist’s journey. Following Tanjiro’s quest to become a Demon Slayer after his family’s tragic fate, the show presents complex characters and a world where good and evil are not easily distinguishable, captivating audiences with its emotional depth.
2020: Jujutsu Kaisen – Soaring Success in the Shonen Genre Jujutsu Kaisen soared to success in 2020, earning the title of Anime of the Year at the Crunchyroll Anime Awards. True to the essence of shonen, this series fearlessly incorporates elements of horror, gore, and dark fantasy. The struggle between cursed beings and jujutsu sorcerers sets the stage for intense action from the very beginning, gripping viewers with its fast-paced narrative.
2021: Odd Taxi – An Eccentric Gem Odd Taxi stands out for its uniqueness and eccentricity. As the name suggests, this anime forgoes action, tournaments, and OP heroes and instead offers a slice-of-life drama. Set in a world of anthropomorphic animals, the story revolves around a 40-year-old walrus taxi driver and his encounters with a diverse range of odd passengers. The show’s dark comedy theme, clever writing, and meaningful humor make it a standout experience.
2022: Spy x Family – A Breakout Hit While the year is not yet over, Spy x Family has emerged as one of the best breakout anime series of 2022. Topping many lists for the best series of the year, this spy-themed show revolves around a fake family comprising a spy, an assassin, and a telepath. With its hilarious and earnest storytelling, Spy x Family offers a delightful blend of humor and intrigue, solidifying its position among the top anime of the year.
While personal preferences may vary, these anime series have undoubtedly made a significant impact on both critics and viewers alike, leaving an indelible mark on the anime landscape over the past decade.
