Top 20 Must-Watch Anime Series of the Century

Anime has evolved significantly over the past few decades, offering a rich tapestry of stories that cater to every taste imaginable. The start of the 21st century has seen a remarkable surge in anime production, with countless titles becoming cultural phenomena worldwide. Among these, some have stood out for their captivating narratives, stunning animation, and unique ability to keep viewers glued to their screens, whispering "just one more episode" until the sun comes up. In this article, we explore the top 20 binge-worthy anime of the century so far, as highlighted by Ash from Watch Mojo. These selections span a variety of genres and themes, ensuring there's something for everyone. Whether you're a seasoned otaku or new to the anime scene, prepare to add some titles to your watch list.

The Unmissable Twenty

Akudama Drive

• Genre Blend: Imagine the chaos of Danganronpa meets Tarantino's storytelling. Akudama Drive delivers a thrilling ride with its story of highly skilled criminals embarking on a dangerous heist. It's a vibrant mix of betrayal, death, and sci-fi twists that promises a fun, albeit stylishly crazy journey.

Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba

• Global Phenomenon: With its breathtaking art and epic battles, Demon Slayer has not only captured hearts worldwide but also proved itself as one of the most bingeable series. Following Tanjiro's quest to save his demon-transformed sister, it's a story of resilience and breathtaking action that's hard to put down.

Recovery of an MMO Junkie

• Heartwarming and Relatable: This series tackles mid-life crisis and societal pressures through Moriko's story, who dives into the world of MMORPGs. It's a sweet, relatable tale of finding love and pursuing passion against all odds.

Odd Taxi

• Intricately Crafted Mystery: Set in a world of anthropomorphic characters, Odd Taxi is a brilliant narrative woven with humor, mystery, and a deep look into Japanese culture, all through the eyes of a walrus taxi driver entangled in a murder mystery.

The Seven Deadly Sins

• Fantasy and Humor: This series combines magical fights, a quest for redemption, and a healthy dose of humor. Follow the journey of Princess Elizabeth as she seeks the help of the legendary Seven Deadly Sins to reclaim her kingdom.

Fate/Zero

• Epic Fantasy: As a prequel to the widely acclaimed Fate series, Fate/Zero sets the stage for the Fourth Holy Grail War, blending mythology, magic, and intense battles in a narrative that's both convoluted and captivating.

The Disastrous Life of Saiki K.

• Comedy Gold: With psychic powers and a desire for a normal life, Saiki's daily adventures are a comedy trainwreck that's impossible to look away from. The fast-paced jokes and fourth-wall breaks ensure endless laughter.

Devilman Crybaby

• Raw and Riveting: A masterpiece of chaos and heartache, this series explores the darker side of humanity through Akira's struggle with his demonic nature. It's visually stunning, deeply emotional, and utterly unique.

One Punch Man

• Superhero Satire: Saitama's journey as the overpowered One Punch Man offers a hilarious yet insightful commentary on the superhero genre, blending incredible action with laugh-out-loud moments.

Kuroko's Basketball

• Sports and Growth: This basketball anime goes beyond the court, focusing on teamwork, personal growth, and the thrill of competition. It's a sports anime that even those new to the genre will adore.

Kill la Kill

• Action-Packed and Edgy: Studio Trigger's Kill la Kill is a whirlwind of action, humor, and fan service, following Ryuko's vengeful quest. It masterfully balances serious themes with a light-hearted tone.

Erased

• Time Travel Thriller: A gripping tale of murder, mystery, and time travel, Erased follows Satoru's efforts to prevent a tragedy in his childhood. It's a series that combines human failings with compassion in a story that's both thrilling and emotional.

Mashoku Tensei: Jobless Reincarnation

• A Second Chance: This isekai stands out for its deep character development and the redemption arc of Rudius, who's reborn in a magical world. It's a tale that's as heartwarming as it is entertaining.

Jujutsu Kaisen

• Dark and Enticing: Quickly becoming a shonen favorite, Jujutsu Kaisen mixes traditional tropes with a darker narrative. Following Itadori's journey in the world of sorcerers and curses, it's a series that promises to get even better.

Made in Abyss

• A Beautiful Descent: With its blend of innocence and darkness, Made in Abyss takes viewers on a journey that's as visually stunning as it is emotionally taxing. Rico's quest is a compelling mix of adventure and horror.

Higurashi When They Cry

• Terrifyingly Engaging: A horror series that keeps reinventing its narrative, Higurashi is a disturbing yet fascinating look at curse and madness in a seemingly idyllic town. It's a long journey to its resolution, but one that's worth every moment.

Kaiji

• High Stakes: In a world where debt can lead to death games, Kaiji stands out for its intense psychological battles and the protagonist's desperate quest for freedom. It's a thrilling ride from start to finish.

Hunter x Hunter

• A Shonen Masterpiece: Gon's quest to find his father takes him on a journey full of challenges, complex foes, and incredible battles, making Hunter x Hunter a top-tier anime experience that's both deep and engaging.

Attack on Titan

• Epic and Revolutionary: With its intricate world-building and narrative depth, Attack on Titan has redefined what anime can be. Follow Eren Yeager's battle against the Titans in a story of survival and rebellion.

Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood

• The Pinnacle of Anime: At the top of the list, Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood combines emotional depth, epic battles, and a profound narrative. Edward and Alphonse's quest is a masterpiece in storytelling, making it the most binge-worthy anime of the century.

From heart-racing action to deep emotional journeys, these anime series have set the bar for storytelling in the medium. Each title offers a unique experience, proving that anime is more than entertainment—it's an art form capable of exploring the depths of the human experience. Whether you're looking for a new series to dive into or revisiting classics, these anime are sure to provide endless hours of enjoyment.

Discover more about these series and share your own binge-worthy favorites in the comments below. And for more anime recommendations, be sure to subscribe to Watch Mojo.