The Greatest Action Anime Series of All Time - A List of Top Picks for Fans of Fighting and Thrills

Genre: Action, Mystery, Drama
Episodes: 87 (Four Seasons)
Release: 2013
Status: Final Season in mid 2023

My Take:

If Hitchcock and Ridley Scott worked on the same anime, this would look like this. Attack on Titan is an anime series that spans four seasons and tells a brutal and engaging story of survival against giant humanoid creatures called Titans. The story begins with the Titans suddenly appearing and wiping out much of humanity, trapping the remaining survivors within a series of walls to protect themselves.

“On that day, mankind received a grim reminder. We lived in fear of the titans and were disgraced to live in these cages we called walls.”

The first season follows the story of Eren Yeager, a young man whose mother is killed by a Titan. This event fuels his desire to join the Survey Corps, a military organization that fights the Titans, and he eventually becomes one of humanity’s strongest fighters. The story is intense from the first episode, with a lot of Brutal action and gore. The show is full of action, but it’s not just mindless violence, the story is well thought out, and it keeps you guessing.

One of the strengths of Attack on Titan is its incredible story, and it builds suspense like a Hitchcock movie. The anime does a fantastic job of balancing the characters’ personal stories with the larger story of the Titans and humanity’s struggle against them. The blood-pumping soundtrack and the best animation I’ve seen in action sequences make the show even more engaging. The series’ direction is very similar to Ridley Scott’s style, with a lot of tension, suspense, and a sense of hopelessness.

I loved all four seasons of Attack on Titan, but I especially enjoyed the third and fourth seasons as they brought some much-needed answers and resolutions to the series. They added more depth to the story and revealed some shocking plot twists.

Attack on Titan is an intense and engaging anime series that I highly recommend to fans of action, horror, and suspense. The show has some of the best animations in action sequences, an incredible story, and a soundtrack that pumps your adrenaline. With each season, the show continues to impress, and it’s a series remembered for years.

Genre: Action, Fantasy

Episodes: 12

Release: 2022

Status: Finished

My Take:

Chainsaw Man is an anime series that has been highly anticipated by fans since its manga adaptation first began serialization in 2018. The series follows the story of Denji, a young man who is left with his father's yakuza debt after his father's death. Desperate to live everyday life, Denji turns to desperate measures to make money, such as selling organs and an eye. His only companion is Pochita, a Chainsaw Devil in the shape of a dog-like creature with a chainsaw for a nose.

The anime is set in a world where devils are born from human fears, and the more something is feared, the bigger it's the devil. This concept adds an interesting layer to the story as the main antagonists are not just mindless monsters but terrifying creatures that feed on human fears.

The animation studio, MAPPA, known for their work on Attack on Titan and Jujutsu Kaisen, has done an excellent job of bringing the manga to life with fluid animation and intense action scenes. The fight scenes are epic and cinematic, with nothing held back when it comes to gore and blood. The character designs are also fantastic, with the Devils being particularly terrifying and well-designed.

Denji, the lead character, is not your typical hero despite being a Devil Hunter. He is driven by his desire for food and women, which adds a unique and entertaining aspect to the story. The supporting characters also offer depth and nuance, with Power and Aki Hayakawa proving to have more exciting traits as the story progresses.

The series also includes many pop culture references, including a nod to the iconic horror movie, The Texas Chain Saw Massacre, which adds an extra layer of enjoyment for fans of horror movies.

Chainsaw Man is a fantastic action anime series that offers an interesting and unique story with well-developed characters and fluid animation. MAPPA has once again delivered an epic and cinematic action sequence with terrifying creatures that feed on human fears and fascinating characters.

Genre: Action, Comedy
Episodes: 26
Release: 2019 I Third Season Coming soon

My take:

Demon slayer, is absolutely worth the time, it’s entertaining, and with futuristic Animation, its unique from regular Shonen anime with crafted fight scenes. Absolutely recommended. Looking forward to Season 3.
Full review

The kamado’s family lives happily and peacefully on a remote mountain. One day our main character, Kamado Tanjirou, found out his entire family is slaughtered by Demon and only left his little sister turns into a Bloodthirsty demon. Along with his sister, Tanjirou starts a journey and become a demon slayer to avenge his family and find a cure for Nezuko to turn her back into a human.

Genre: Action, Comedy.
Episodes: 12
Release: 2015
Status: Finished

My Take:

Note: I’m not considering season two; if I did, this anime wouldn’t be on the list after the average of two seasons. Removing season two from my memory.

One Punch Man is an anime series that captivates and entertains anime fans with its unique and thrilling storyline. The series, consisting of 12 action-packed episodes, follows the journey of Saitama, a superhero with a remarkable ability—he can defeat any foe with a single punch. This seemingly invincible power sets Saitama apart from other action heroes, making him an unconventional protagonist that adds a refreshing twist to the typical superhero narrative. Despite his extraordinary abilities, Saitama's boredom and lack of challenge create a comedic and light-hearted tone, elevating the show to a level of humor and depth seldom seen in action anime.

The climax episode of One Punch Man stands out as an exceptionally superb moment in the series. It builds up to an epic and intense battle between Saitama and Garo, the formidable main villain of the story. The fight is a thrilling showcase of animation and action, demonstrating the incredible prowess of both characters. This epic showdown serves as a testament to the series' skillful storytelling and ability to deliver captivating and adrenaline-pumping sequences.

Beyond its engaging battles and humorous undertones, One Punch Man delves into themes that resonate with audiences on a deeper level. The show explores the concept of power and the struggles of a hero who finds himself disillusioned with his own might. Saitama's internal conflict and search for worthy opponents add emotional depth to the story, making him a relatable character despite his god-like abilities.

One Punch Man is a captivating anime that pleases action enthusiasts with its thrilling battles and offers a unique and comedic take on the superhero genre. Saitama's character and the show's skillful blend of action and humor keep viewers entertained throughout the series. Moreover, One Punch Man's exploration of complex themes and its portrayal of the struggles and psychology of a supremely powerful hero elevate it to the status of an anime gem that stands out among its peers.

Genre: Action, Adventure, Comedy
Episodes: 444 (Dragon Ball + Dragon Ball Z)
Release: 1986
Status: ongoing

My Take:

The Dragon Ball series is a beloved classic in the anime world, renowned for its epic fight scenes, martial arts prowess, and supernatural powers. It revolves around the adventures of Goku, a young boy with extraordinary strength and a tail, as he embarks on a quest to find the seven Dragon Balls, magical artifacts that can grant any wish. The story evolves in Dragon Ball Z, where an adult Goku faces even more formidable foes, unlocking new levels of power with his Super Saiyan transformations.

The iconic theme song, "Cha-La Head-Cha-La," has become a timeless anthem for anime enthusiasts worldwide. Goku, Gohan, Piccolo, Vegeta, and various villains like Freeza and Cell have etched themselves into the hearts of fans, becoming household names in the anime community.

The series' transformation scenes, particularly Goku's first Super Saiyan transformation, remain etched in the annals of anime history, evoking intense emotions from viewers. The battles are breathtaking and emotionally charged, showcasing characters willing to make sacrifices for the greater good.

These timeless classics have left a profound impact on the anime industry and have captivated fans for generations. What truly sets Dragon Ball and Dragon Ball Z apart is their animation quality, which has consistently improved over time. The carefully choreographed fights and fluid character movements contribute to the exhilarating experience of watching the series.

Genre: Action, Fantasy
Episodes: 24
Release: 2021
Status: Finished

My Take:

Jujutsu Kaisen, produced by Studio MAPPA, is a high-octane anime series that delivers both exhilarating action animation and captivating production design. The dark and colourful animation expertly captures the intensity of each scene, immersing viewers into the world of jujutsu sorcerers. The series follows the journey of Itadori Yuji, a high school student who unwittingly becomes a part of the dangerous world of cursed objects and jujutsu sorcery.

While the plot may follow some typical shonen tropes, the ensemble of well-crafted characters truly elevates Jujutsu Kaisen to new heights. The characters bring unique styles and personalities to the show, making each episode exciting and enjoyable. With his cool and composed demeanor juxtaposed with a hint of darkness, the standout character, Satoru Gojo, adds depth and intrigue to the story.

Studio MAPPA's commitment to delivering stunning visuals and animation is evident throughout the series. The captivating action sequences and the dark and stylish artwork keep viewers glued to the screen. Moreover, the show's production design, including the haunting curses and fantastical environments, adds to the immersive experience, making Jujutsu Kaisen a visual treat.

Jujutsu Kaisen is more than just another shonen anime. It stands out for its outstanding animation, compelling characters, and well-crafted production design. Its unique style and cool vibe make it a must-watch for fans of the genre, leaving a lasting impression.

Genre: Action, Sci-Fi

Episodes: 10

Release: 2022

Status: Finished

My Take:

Cyberpunk: Edgerunners is the latest anime series that has taken the anime world by storm. This anime series is a must-watch for anyone who loves sci-fi, cyberpunk and futuristic worlds. The animation style of Cyberpunk: Edgerunners is inspired by the famous 2019 movie Promare by studio Trigger.

The world of the future that Cyberpunk: Edgerunners depicts is one that is full of details, and the anime does an excellent job of showing how this world works. The technology, the architecture, and the overall feel of the world are all spot-on, and it really does feel like a cyberpunk game comes to life. The world-building in this anime is truly top-notch, and fans of the cyberpunk genre will not be disappointed.

This anime series is for adults and is not recommended for children due to its mature themes and graphic violence. The characters are complex, and the story is thought-provoking, making it a must-watch for anyone who loves mature anime.

Cyberpunk: Edgerunners is the perfect show to dive into for those who prefer shows with only one season. It is full of action, adventure, and intrigue and will keep you on the edge of your seat from start to finish.

Cyberpunk: Edgerunners is an anime series that is not to be missed. It takes the world of the popular Cyberpunk 2077 game and brings it to life in a way that fans of the game will love. The animation style is stunning, the world is full of details, and the story is engaging and thought-provoking. It is a must-watch if you are a fan of sci-fi, or just enjoy mature anime.

Genre: Action, Drama, Sci-Fi
Episodes: 11+12
Release: 2021
Status: Finished

My Take:

"86 Eighty-Six" is a captivating anime that seamlessly blends action, drama, and science fiction into a thought-provoking narrative. Set in a world divided by region, blood, and inequality, the series follows a group of individuals from the Area amid an ongoing battle against an unknown enemy. The show's unique premise delves into societal divisions and war's impact on individuals and communities.

At its core, "86 Eighty-Six" is a mecha military anime emphasising character development and emotional storytelling. The characters are deeply affected by the inequalities present in their society, and their struggles against oppression and discrimination serve as a driving force behind the plot. The action sequences are skillfully executed, but what truly sets the anime apart is its exploration of complex themes and relationships.

The series's first season introduces viewers to the stark contrast between the two sides of the conflict, highlighting the stark disparities between the privileged and the marginalized. The characters, particularly the protagonist, provide a lens through which we witness the harsh realities faced by those on the fringes of society. The second season delves even deeper into the personal experiences and traumas of individuals who have grown up in the midst of war, offering a poignant and moving exploration of the effects of conflict on young lives.

"86 Eighty-Six" challenges viewers to reflect on the societal issues it presents while providing a riveting and immersive story. The series offers a unique and engaging exploration of its characters and their world by delving into themes of inequality, discrimination, and the human spirit's capacity for resilience. The show's ability to intertwine action-packed sequences with profound character-driven moments creates a compelling viewing experience.

Genre: Action, Comedy
Episodes: 88 ( Four Seasons)
Release: 2016
Status: Fifth Season Coming Soon

My take:

I really liked the previous seasons even though it was cringe, repeatable because It has emotion, motivation in characters like. In the first season, Midoriya wants to be a superhero without power. He works hard and takes his body to the limit to save others. And great characterization like in season two, and of course best action sequence as we saw in season three All Might finale battle. Sadly, fourth season doesn’t have any of those things I love and did not try anything different to appreciate its flaws…..

Full Review

Genre: Comedy, Action
Episodes: 13+8
Release: 2018
Status: Finished

My Take:

Cells at Work! is an anime series that explores the inner workings of the human body through the lens of anthropomorphic cells. It depicts the various cells in the body, such as Red Blood Cells, White Blood Cells, and Platelets, as they go about their daily routines. The series aims to educate the audience about the human body and its functions in a fun and engaging way.

You may not get a degree in Cytology for watching Cells At Work; however, the series will leave you with immense knowledge of the human body. The series takes a complex subject and makes it easy to understand, using relatable and likable characters, which is a great way to make learning more enjoyable.

The series is also astonishingly fused with hilarious comedy and brutal, bloody action. The comedy is cleverly done and provides a light-hearted break from the scientific information that is being presented. The action scenes are also intense and well done, providing an exciting break from the educational content.

Cells at Work! is an anime series that educates the audience about the human body and its functions in a fun and engaging way. The series perfectly combines education and entertainment with clever comedy and intense action. It’s a series I would highly recommend for anyone interested in learning about the human body entertainingly.

Genre: Action, Sci-Fi, Psychological
Episodes: 24
Release: 2014
Status: Finished

My Take:

Parasyte: The Maxim is an intense and thought-provoking anime that explores the theme of the symbiotic relationship between humans and aliens. The story follows Shinichi, a high school student infected by a parasitic alien named Migi. Together, they form a strange partnership as they try to survive in a world where other parasitic aliens are taking over human hosts.

One of the most interesting aspects of the series is the way it raises philosophical questions about the nature of humanity. The symbiotic relationship between Shinichi and Migi allows for a unique exploration of what it means to be human. The series also delves into themes of cannibalism and the morality of killing other species, which adds to the story’s complexity.

The animation and action scenes are well done, although some episodes are stronger than others. The English dub is also worth mentioning, as it is well-executed and adds to the overall enjoyment of the series.

Parasyte: The Maxim is a compelling and thought-provoking anime that explores complex themes of humanity and morality. The unique symbiotic relationship between Shinichi and Migi and the intense action scenes make for an entertaining watch. Despite some weaker episodes and plot holes in the last few episodes, the series is definitely worth checking out.