Action anime series have been popular for many decades. Fans from all over the world love watching action series because they feature exciting storylines with amazing fights and visual scenes. Some of the best action anime series like One Punch Man, Attack on Titan, Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood and of course, the BIG 3 of anime have been iconic for many years now with a huge fanbase around the world. Even non-anime fans can recognize popular characters from each of these shows.
Why are people excited and love to watch action anime? The answer is simple because it showcases some of the intense fight scenes, great character development, and storytelling with amazing animation. Generally, in the action genre, it is mainly focused on inspiring moments, epic fight scenes, and supernatural battles.
Today I am going to recommend to you some of the best action series in anime in this list, which are definitely worth watching with rich storylines and great action. It is possible that your favorite didn’t make it on this list, and if so, feel free to share your favorite anime in the comment box!
20. My Hero Academia
My Hero Academia makes great use of superhero action in a world where 80% of people have extraordinary abilities known as Quirks. This anime follows Izuku Midoriya, a Quirkless boy who gets the most superpowers from the world’s greatest hero, All Might. This series stands out for its extraordinary variety of superpowered fights, including training exercises to battles with villains that make good use of the creative abilities of different ‘quirks.’ Major fights are nicely animated, with smooth movements and a lot of explosive effects that make each punch feel real. Fan-favorite moments are Deku vs. Todoroki and All Might vs. All For One, which create a heart-pounding action atmosphere and give the battles real emotional weight. My Hero Academia is a perfect combination of superhero anime and character development, though it has more than 5 seasons, and some seasons might feel slow. But overall, the series does offer good action and amazing fights that raise the expectations with each season.
Series Details:
19. Kaiju No. 8
Kaiju No. 8 is easily one of the best anime of 2024. The story is about Kafka Hibino, a cleanup crew worker who has received the power of transformation into a kaiju monster. This action anime perfectly combines incredible fighting scenes with a relatable underdog story in which Kafka works toward his dream of joining the Defense Force to fight against these creatures (giant monsters). The animation becomes especially dazzling during the intense kaiju fighting scenes, giant creatures smashing into each other with such force that the entire screen shakes. What is different about this series is its old protagonist has been given a second chance to realize his dreams, which is rarely seen in action anime. The unique story, which asks how it feels to become the very thing you’ve promised to fight, will hook fans who love watching monster battles and superhero transformations. Kaiju No. 8 is one of the best modern action anime, and it’s perfect for anyone looking for exciting action anime.
Series Details:
18. Chainsaw Man
Chainsaw Man is one of the best new generation manga, and it finally got an anime adaptation after waiting for many years. Chainsaw Man is a full-of-action story about Denji (the protagonist), a homeless boy who transforms into the ultimate devil hunter after merging with his chainsaw devil dog named Pochita. In this series, action can be classified as extreme fighting, with simply unique fight scenes where chainsaws rip through monstrous devils, animated in such a smooth and amazing style that it pushes beyond all limits and defines visuals. Chainsaw Man is unique not only because of the action and violence, but also because it combines dark, intense scenes with emotional development, and as a result, we see Denji and other devil hunters in danger. It is recommended for mature fans since it is pretty much dark, violent, and contains sexual content, but it is an intense anime definitely worth the watch.
Series Details:
- Release date: 2022
- MAL Rating: 8.46
- Episodes: 12
- Studio: MAPPA
- Based on: Manga by Tatsuki Fujimoto
- Streaming Service: Netflix, Crunchyroll and Prime Video (based on your location)
17. Mob Psycho 100
Mob Psycho is one of the most creative-looking action anime, turning psychic fights into amazing visuals that take animation to the next level. The story follows Mob, a quiet middle school boy with powerful psychic powers. Whenever his emotions hit 100%, the anime delivers amazing, fast-paced action scenes with creative and stunning animation. Mob Psycho stands out because Studio BONES does a great job, turning its unusual art style into eye-catching fight scenes, mixing classic animation with creative and unique visuals. The psychic battles are full of crazy visuals, big explosions, and smart moves that keep surprising you. From big city-destroying fights to intense ghost battles, every scene looks amazing and also highlights the great character development. Honestly, Mob Psycho is not just about action and fights. It is one of the best anime series, a masterpiece for me, and definitely worth watching. All the characters are fun to watch, especially Reigen, Ekubo, and Mob. They are my favorite and very well written.
Series Details:
- Release date: 2016
- MAL Rating: 8.78
- Episodes: 37
- Studio: Bones
- Based on: Manga by ONE
- Streaming Service: Crunchyroll, Netflix (based on your location)
16. Cyberpunk: Edgerunners
One of the best mini anime series, Cyberpunk Edgerunners is a very impressive action series in recent years. This series takes place in a dark, futuristic city called Night City, filled with glowing neon lights and chaos. The action scenes and futuristic cybernetic combat, turning human bodies into powerful weapons, are done very well in this series, thanks to Studio Trigger’s animation. Throughout its ten episode run, this series does feature several amazing action scenes with more intense rival edgerunners and corporate guards. Storytelling is very good as well, with great character development, and many fans find this series very sad and emotional (including me) because of its ending. Cyberpunk Edgerunners has a lot of intense fight scenes, but the story also has emotional moments that make you care about the characters.
Series Details:
- Release date: 2022
- MAL Rating: 8.61
- Episodes: 10
- Studio: Trigger
- Based on: The video game Cyberpunk 2077
15. Black Clover
One of the most popular anime, Black Clover is an action-packed story in which magic rules supreme. It follows Asta, a boy born without magic in a world where spells are everything. What is amazing about Black Clover is how quickly it goes from an underdog story to a huge magical war with some of the best action fights in anime. The best parts of the series are definitely the wizard battles with their cool variety of magic types that look amazing on screen, plus all the smart tactical teamwork between characters. Asta’s anti-magic sword skills against powerful enemies, with his never-give-up attitude, make his battles incredibly intense and exciting to watch. Friendship, power leveling, and continuing magical fights are perfectly balanced in the series. Black Clover has earned its spot as a fan-favorite action anime and is considered by many to be one of the best for anyone who loves watching underdogs become legendary magical warriors.
Series Details:
- Release date: 2017
- MAL Rating: 8.14
- Episodes: 170
- Studio: Pierrot
- Based on: Manga by Yūki Tabata
- Streaming Service: Netflix (based on your location)
14. Solo Leveling
Solo Leveling rapidly became one of the best action anime among all fans within only a year since the anime came out. It is based on manhwa (Korean webtoon), and manhwa was as popular as anime back in the day, but fans have been waiting for an anime adaptation for a long time. Solo Leveling has exploded onto the action anime scene in recent years. It features jaw-droppingly beautiful animated battle scenes. The story follows Sung Jinwoo’s development from the world’s weakest hunter to an unstoppable force with smooth animation and great battles. The action scenes are so amazing to watch in this series, involving Jinwoo in any of his dungeon raids or hunter fights leaves the viewer with uniquely satisfying visions. Solo Leveling is full of great action scenes, strategic fighting, impressive shadow powers, and the combination of leveling-up satisfaction. Solo Leveling might be a good starter anime for you, and if you enjoy watching action anime series, you will definitely enjoy this modern action anime.
Series Details:
- Release date: 2024
- MAL Rating: 8.78
- Episodes: 25
- Studio: A-1 Pictures
- Based on: Manhwa by Kiyohiko Chugong
13. Jujutsu Kaisen
Jujutsu Kaisen is considered one of the best new gen anime, as well as one of the most stunning action anime series in recent years, with fast-paced fight scenes and outstanding animation done by MAPPA. The story is about an ordinary high schooler, Yuji Itadori, who ends up sharing his body with a very dangerous and powerful cursed spirit (Sukuna), meaning the curse lives inside him. What makes Jujutsu Kaisen a very good action anime is its cool animation style, which shows every curse technique and domain expansion with smooth motion and impressive visuals. The Kyoto Exchange Event and Shibuya Incident arcs have the best action fights in the series, and they are truly unforgettable. Jujutsu Kaisen is an action story that keeps anime fans engaged from start to finish, and Season 2 (Shibuya Arc) is full of action and intense fight scenes. It is a top action anime series, though the manga has ended now and the final arc is yet to be animated!
Series Details:
- Release date: 2021
- MAL Rating: 8.76
- Episodes: 47
- Studio: MAPPA
- Based on: Manga by Gege Akutami
- Streaming Service: Crunchyroll, Netflix (based on your location)
12. One-Punch Man
One-Punch Man is a unique action anime that follows Saitama, a hero who can defeat any amount of enemies with a single punch. This series does so well in combining the action scenes with some great comedy that it becomes unique in itself. Compared to many other action anime, Saitama’s lack of excitement about his extremely powerful strength and insane fight scenes gave viewers an unforgettable experience. The animation quality (Season 1) is excellent, especially in battle, with screens exploding with colors and quick movements. Aside from the fights, the series is a brilliant humor of superhero genre characters, alongside great supporting characters like Genos, Garou, and many more. One-Punch Man is a powerhouse of entertainment that deserves to be ranked among the best action anime of all time. Many fans were disappointed by Season 2 of One-Punch because of the lower animation quality compared to Season 1. Season 2 has a few good scenes and is overall an OK season. If you enjoy manga, I highly recommend reading OPM (One-Punch Man).
Series Details:
- Release date: 2015
- MAL Rating: 8.49
- Episodes: 24
- Studio: Madhouse (season 1) J.C.Staff (season 2)
- Based on: Manga by Yusuke Murata and ONE
- Streaming Service: Crunchyroll, Netflix (based on your location)
11. Demon Slayer
Arguably Demon Slayer has the best animation, and many fans often claim that. Demon slayer has quickly become one of the most popular anime series in fiction media within a few years. The story of this series tells the journey of Tanjiro to avenge his family and help his sister, who has turned into a demon. One thing that made this series hugely popular is the stunning animation provided by the studio Ufotable, which turns every sword fight into a visual feast with its thunder effects, fire, and beautiful water. Fights like Tanjiro vs Rui, Tengen vs Gyutaro, and the entire Mugen Train arc are straight-up peak with top-tier animation. Every fight leaves a meaningful emotional feeling rather than a flashy animation. The action is extremely beautiful and emotional. Demon Slayer serves up some of the most impressive action that even casual anime viewers can appreciate. If you are a beginner who has started watching anime recently or is looking for a good action-packed anime series, then Demon Slayer would be the perfect choice for you!
Series Details:
- Release date: 2019
- MAL Rating: 8.44
- Episodes: 63
- Studio: ufotable
- Based on: Manga by Koyoharu Gotouge
- Streaming Service: Crunchyroll , Netflix (based on your location)
10. Gintama
Gintama is the perfect mix of hilarious comedy and insane action. Gintama is one of the best anime of all time, with unique and emotional storytelling. While watching, no one would have thought that Gintama is so deep when it comes to story and emotional moments. The silver-haired samurai Sakata Gintoki and his freaky odd-job crew (Yorozuya), Kagura and Shinpachi, were introduced to journeys that went from hilarious to heartbreaking in a matter of moments. In fact, Gintama is a popular anime in the action genre because it allows fans to relate emotionally with the characters through comedy and then delivers amazing, epic sword fights. The series showcases some of the best arcs in anime. Benizakura, Shogun Assassination, and Silver Soul are truly masterpiece arcs that are unforgettable and legendary. At the start, Gintama’s pacing might feel slow to you, with the first few episodes full of hilarious comedy. But as the story goes on, it features some of the best arcs. Fans need to be patient while watching, and investing your time in this series is absolutely worthy.
Series Details:
- Release date: 2006
- MAL Rating: 9.05
- Episodes: 367
- Studio: Sunrise and BN Pictures
- Based on: Manga byHideaki Sorachi
9. One Piece
One Piece is the best-selling manga and one of the longest-running anime series, with crushing battle after battle across a vast yard of pirates and adventure. Monkey D. Luffy, who would become King of the Pirates in the series. It showcases a unique style of imagination in the fight by combining Devil Fruit powers with traditional fighting techniques. One Piece is different from other action anime in that its battle system includes increasingly unique techniques that speak to personality and ability. The series had memorable battle scenes where battles had the power to completely transform entire landscapes, such as the Wano and Marineford War arcs. Every aggressive moment is given the impression with great animation style. You might not enjoy some fights and find the pacing in One Piece slow, but in recent years, the series has produced some of the best action fights in anime. It is also claimed by many fans that the manga of one piece is better than the anime, but the anime offers its own vibe and enjoyment experience.
Series Details:
- Release date: 1999
- MAL Rating: 8.73
- Episodes: 1100+
- Studio: Toei Animation
- Based on: Manga by Eiichiro Oda
- Streaming Service: Crunchyroll, Netflix (based on your location)
8. Hunter x Hunter (2011)
Hunter x Hunter one of the most loved anime and arguably the greatest shonen anime of all time, Hunter X Hunter delivers some of the most strategically brilliant action in anime history. Fights in this series aren’t just about hitting each other, they’re smart, strategic, and full of mind games, like playing chess. Following Gon Freecss’s journey to become a Hunter and his quest to find his father. What makes Hunter x Hunter so special is how the fights prioritize tactics and adaptability over raw power, especially during the unforgettable Yorknew City and Chimera Ant arcs. The series includes outstanding action highlights such as Kurapika vs the Phantom Troupe and Netero vs Meruem battles, which are among the best in anime history, with perfect pacing and emotional depth. Hunter x Hunter is peak fiction that every fan should watch. Although the story has not yet been completed and the manga is still ongoing, hopefully it will have a satisfying ending.
Series Details:
- Release date: 2011
- MAL Rating: 9.03
- Episodes: 148
- Studio: Madhouse
- Based on: Manga by Yoshihiro Togashi
7. JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure
Such is the case with JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure, the most innovative action anime ever, featuring ultra-modern stylish fights with supernatural powers and extensive visual outrage. The multigenerational saga of Joestar’s family, Jojo turns fights into art shows of its unique stand battles, completely unexpected signs of fighting spirit, through capable, unique characteristics. JoJo stands out from the crowd of action anime thanks to David Production’s daring animation, which transforms Hirohiko Araki’s dynamic poses and creative combat strategies into fully animated styles. This series features thrilling action highlights throughout its various parts including sun-powered Hamon techniques and increasingly complex stand battles in which participants rely on strategy instead of raw muscle. JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure is one of the most unique and creative anime with a different art style. It’s a legendary and must-watch series for all anime fans.
Series Details:
- Release date: 2012
- MAL Rating: 8.58
- Episodes: 190
- Studio: David Production
- Based on: Manga by Hirohiko Araki
- Streaming Service: Crunchyroll Netflix, Disney+ Hotstar (based on your location)
6. Bleach
Talking about one of the best anime series and one of the Big 3 of anime, Bleach is one of the best action anime out there, keeping fans hooked with its intense battles and cool supernatural powers. The story is about Ichigo Kurosaki’s transformation from ordinary teenager to powerful Soul Reaper. This iconic anime delivers some of the most spectacular fight sequences ever animated. What is special about Bleach is it exciting and well-animated sword fights, interesting supernatural powers, and peak battles. Some of the peak and most memorable fights happen in the Soul Society and Arrancar story arcs. Bleach is known for stylish fight scenes, great storytelling, and of course, it’s one of the Big Three. TYBW arc has some of the best fights as well, and it’s still ongoing. Bleach has influenced many new generation anime, and it’s a must-watch series to all anime fans.
Series Details:
- Release date: 2004
- MAL Rating: 9.00
- Episodes: 406 (including TYBW arc)
- Studio: Pierrot
- Based on: Manga by Tite Kubo
- Streaming Service: Crunchyroll(original series), Netflix(based on your location)
5. Fate Series
The Fate series, one of the most visually stunning action anime franchises ever, has amazing magical combat and fights that are beautiful to watch with top-tier animation. The story is about the Holy Grail War, where legendary heroes are summoned as servants and fight for possession of the Holy Grail. Studio ufoTable clear power can be seen in beautifully highlighted movement and sparkling special effects that show interesting plot developments. The choreography in Fate is exceptional and unique. The fight scenes combine sword fights, powerful magic and dramatic Noble Phantasms into intense battles that look so amazing, you wonder how they even animated them. In both Fate/Zero and its sequel, Fate/stay night: Unlimited Blade Works, the way fights are animated is incredibly impressive and unforgettable. This series has one of the best actions in anime, blending battle strategies and legendary mythological characters with top-tier animation, surpassing the expectations of fans. Fun fact is the Fate series and Demon Slayer are both done by the same studio!
Series Details:
- Release date: 2014
- MAL Rating: 8.54
- Episodes: 100+
- Studio: ufoTable
- Based on: Visual Novel by Kinoko Nasu
4. Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood
Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood (FMAB) is simply one of the greatest anime of all time and ranks among the top action anime. The story of brothers Edward and Alphonso Elric trying to get back their original bodies after a failed alchemical experiment. FMAB was the highest-rated anime for a long time and is still one of the top-rated because of its great action and emotional storytelling. All in just 64 episodes, with memorable villains like the Homunculi and main as well as side characters with whom you will connect deeply. The animation quality is consistently high every time, but it reaches its peak during serious fights, with beautiful choreographed movement with a lot of emotion. FMAB has the perfect story with epic action scenes, and it is undoubtedly one of the best anime ever produced. For the fans looking for an action anime with a great story, FMAB is a must-watch series for every anime fan.
Series Details:
- Release date: 2009
- MAL Rating: 9.10
- Episodes: 64
- Studio: Bones
- Based on: Manga by Hiromu Arakawa
3. Naruto Series
The Naruto series is one of the most iconic and influential action anime franchises ever created. Naruto has changed the view of ninja combat by combining supernatural jutsu with great storytelling. The anime follows Uzumaki Naruto’s inspiring tale from struggling academy student to legendary shinobi. What made Naruto so iconic and popular is the series has some of the best story arcs in anime history. Chunin exam and the Pain arc are some of the best arcs in anime and of course, Naruto is very popular for its fights and action, like Naruto vs Sasuke and Kakashi vs Obito, and many great fights included in the series that are truly unforgettable. Power system in Naruto is creative as well, with the chakra system, ninjutsu, genjutsu, and taijutsu. And techniques like Chidori and Rasengan that make this series even more amazing to watch. Naruto is a masterpiece in the action genre and has inspired countless new generation anime series.
Series Details:
- Release date: 2002
- MAL Rating: 8.28
- Episodes: 720
- Studio: Pierrot
- Based on: Manga by Masashi Kishimoto
- Streaming Service: Crunchyroll, Netflix
2. Dragon Ball Series
Talking about the most legendary anime series, Dragon Ball is undoubtedly one of the greatest action anime of all time and has inspired nearly all other great action anime. Well, if you are not familiar with the story of Dragon Ball, it’s a journey of the legendary character Goku. From a young martial artist to a godlike defender of the universe. This was the series that developed the power scaling and transformation-based combat. The action scenes in the various Sagas, such as Saiyan, Frieza, and Cell, are completely unforgettable, with flying combatants unleashing devastating energy attacks and physical strikes that forever changed how anime shows superhuman combat. Dragon Ball series features some unforgettable action scenes with well-balanced martial arts techniques and energy-based powers. Incredible action, exciting and dynamic fight sequences that set the bar for all other action anime. Dragon Ball is still the most popular and loved anime franchise.
Series Details:
- Release date: 1986
- MAL Rating: 8.19
- Episodes: 200+
- Studio: Toei Animation
- Based on: Manga by Akira Toriyama
1. Attack On Titan
Attack on Titan is arguably the best action anime of all time, with epic battle scenes that have left an mark on the anime industry. Attack on Titan shows humanity’s desperate struggle against man-eating titans, with outstanding animation during high-flying ODM gear battles and brutal titan encounters. What is special about Attack on Titan is its story, action and battle scenes, that keeps fans on the edge of their seats. The Battle of Trost and Assault on Marley arcs, which combine tactical military operations with shocking titan transformations, deliver unforgettable action highlights in the series. Action is perfectly blended with strategy battle, aerial combat actions, and intense battles between humans and monsters. Attack on Titan is filled with nonstop excitement from the very start to the end. It’s one of the greatest anime of all time. It’s a perfect starter anime series for those who are completely new to the anime journey.
Series Details:
- Release date: 2013
- Episodes: 94 + The Final Chapters :Special 1 and 2 (1 hr+)
- Studio: Wit Studio, MAPPA
- Based on: Manga by Hajime Isayama
- Where to Watch: Crunchyroll, Netflix, Hulu (based on your region)
Conclusion
If you are looking for great fight scenes, emotional storytelling, and amazing animation, these are the best action anime series to watch, from Solo Leveling and Demon Slayer to One Piece and Naruto. They have left an incredible mark on the anime industry. Don’t forget to tell me about your favorite series in the comment box!
If you are looking for more anime recommendations, don’t forget to check out the other lists as well, such as the 15 Best Romance Shonen Anime list or the 10 Best Romance Anime list, and many more! CLICK HERE to check all our lists.
