7 Anime Series Better Than Pokémon

Growing up in the nineties and early 2000s, I, like so many others, was completely hooked by the original Pokémon anime! Ash and Pikachu’s adventures were just magical, and still hold a special place in my heart as a true classic for everyone. But honestly, as much as I love Pokémon, there are a ton of other anime series out there – for all ages and tastes – that have actually become even more popular over the years.

Lots of anime series, from cute and heartwarming shows to action-packed adventures, follow a similar formula to Pokémon, often involving battles. But many of these anime put a bigger emphasis on storytelling than Pokémon does. This strong focus on narrative is likely a key reason why some anime become even more popular – everyone loves a compelling story!

Cardcaptor Sakura Is a Sugary Sweet Classic Shojo Anime

Sakura Must Find All the Missing Clow Cards

I remember watching this anime based on a really popular manga, and it started with a normal elementary school girl named Sakura Kinomoto. Her life took a crazy turn when she stumbled upon some old cards in her house and accidentally unleashed their magic. Turns out, they weren’t just any cards – they were the legendary Clow Cards, created by a powerful sorcerer named Clow Reed. A cute little creature named Cerberus – who Sakura quickly nicknamed Kero – explained that she now had to collect all of them, becoming a magical girl in the process. But she wasn’t the only one searching for these amazing cards, which made things even more interesting!

Similar to Pokémon, many episodes of Cardcaptor Sakura feature a unique creature (or Clow Card) and the resulting challenge Sakura faces. However, Cardcaptor Sakura emphasizes the personal growth of its characters more than just the fantasy adventure itself. Viewers get to know Sakura and her close friends: Tomoyo Daidouji, her supportive best friend, and Syaoran Li, a rival also collecting the Clow Cards. Meanwhile, Sakura’s brother, Touya, acts as if he doesn’t know what she’s up to, while his soulmate, Yukito Tsukishiro, deals with his own magical fate, which is closely tied to Sakura and Touya.

Bleach Follows the Journey of a Reluctant Hero

Ichigo Kurosaki Must Become a Soul Reaper

Ichigo Kurosaki can see ghosts, but he doesn’t want anything to do with this ability. However, he has a strong sense of right and wrong and often helps spirits who need it. His powers lead him to meet Rukia Kuchiki, a powerful spirit warrior. After a frightening encounter with a dangerous, corrupted spirit called a Hollow, Ichigo unexpectedly gains Rukia’s powers and is forced to fight these creatures in her stead, much to his dismay.

Like many popular action anime, Bleach features Ichigo and his friends fighting a variety of enemies. Initially, they face smaller threats, but the story gradually focuses on more powerful main villains. While early reviews in the 2000s sometimes criticized the plot as being weak, the characters and the creative world were widely praised. Over time, Bleach‘s reputation has actually grown, solidifying its place as one of the three most influential shōnen anime of all time. A new anime series, Bleach: Thousand-Year Blood War, is currently airing with stunning animation and is intended to finish the final story arc from the original manga.

Hunter x Hunter Is Simultaneously Cheerful and Gritty

Gon Freecss Sets Out To Find His Long-Lost Father

At first glance, with its simple premise and cheerful opening theme, Hunter x Hunter seems like it could be a show for kids. But anyone who actually watches it or reads the manga will quickly realize that’s not the case. The story starts with Gon Freecss wanting to become a Hunter to find his father, but things become much darker as the series progresses. Hunter x Hunter is ultimately a thought-provoking story that doesn’t shy away from showing the potential for darkness within anyone, even those who seem innocent.

Despite getting increasingly intense and sometimes heartbreaking, Hunter x Hunter remains a hopeful story. Gon’s life is deeply impacted by his friendships with Killua, Leorio, and Kurapika – each of whom pursue their own goals as Hunters. Through every challenge and fight, Gon and his friends relentlessly chase their dreams. It’s easy to see why Hunter x Hunter continues to be so beloved.

Dragon Ball Is the Start of a Legendary Hero’s Journey

Goku Embarks on a Quest for the Extraordinary Dragon Balls

Every season brings new anime, but one character consistently stands out – even people who don’t usually watch anime know Son Goku. He’s the main character from the famous Dragon Ball series. While many different Dragon Ball anime have been made over the years, the original remains incredibly popular, letting fans revisit the start of a hero who truly revolutionized the anime world.

I remember when Dragon Ball first started – it was so unique! This young boy, Goku, lived out in the wilderness, and he even had a monkey tail! His life changed when he met Bulma, who was on a quest to find these magical Dragon Balls. The story goes that if you gather all seven, you can summon a dragon named Shenron and get any wish you desire. What began as a search for these Dragon Balls quickly turned into something much bigger for Goku. He made friends for life, faced some serious enemies, and his focus shifted to protecting the entire universe. It’s amazing how many anime fans, myself included, have watched Goku grow up and been inspired by his unwavering dedication to doing what’s right.

Naruto Continues To Inspire Fans Today

The Titular Protagonist Works Hard To Achieve His Dream

Long before the story of Naruto begins, a powerful fox spirit named Kurama attacked the Hidden Leaf Village, causing widespread destruction. While the village was ultimately saved, many ninja, including Naruto’s parents, died in the battle. Unaware that Kurama’s spirit was sealed inside him, young Naruto grew up facing rejection and loneliness from many in the village. He dreamed of becoming a respected ninja, but the journey to achieve that dream would be incredibly challenging.

Throughout the series, Naruto strives to become the Hokage, the leader of his village, hoping to earn the respect of everyone around him. Like many action-packed anime shows, Naruto features exciting story arcs with new enemies to overcome. From the beginning, the series hints at hidden, troubling secrets within each village, including Naruto’s own. Even when faced with challenges and betrayals, Naruto remains determined to achieve his dream and protect those he cares about, which is why he’s become such a beloved character for so many fans.

One Piece Follows the Adventures of a Superpowered Pirate

Luffy D. Monkey and His Allies Journey To Find the Titular Treasure

Image via Toei Animation.

When the famous pirate Gol D. Roger was dying, he revealed that he’d hidden a massive treasure, known as the One Piece, and anyone could claim it. However, he kept the treasure’s location and its true nature a secret. After Roger’s death, countless pirates set sail, all hoping to find the One Piece and become the next Pirate King. Among them is Luffy, captain of the Straw Hat Pirates, who dreams of finding the treasure and claiming the title for himself.

As a child, Luffy ate a special Gum-Gum Fruit that gave him a rubber body, letting him stretch and avoid attacks, but at the cost of being able to swim. While searching for the legendary treasure known as the One Piece, Luffy also gathers a crew of unique and loyal friends. The series One Piece is known for being both lighthearted and surprisingly deep, tackling serious subjects and even featuring character deaths. Despite these darker moments, One Piece maintains a hopeful spirit, inspiring fans with its message of perseverance and loyalty – which is likely why the original manga is the best-selling in history.

Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood Remains a Renowned Shōnen Anime

A Series Often Called the “Greatest” Anime Ever Made

In a world where alchemy is a common practice, two brothers attempt to resurrect their mother, but the experiment goes horribly wrong. The younger brother, Alphonse, loses his entire body, and the older, Edward, sacrifices an arm and a leg to bind Alphonse’s soul to a suit of armor. Now, the brothers embark on a new quest to regain their original bodies, following leads that point to the legendary Philosopher’s Stone—an object said to break the rules of alchemy. Despite his distrust of the system, Edward joins the military under the nickname “Fullmetal Alchemist” to gain access to vital information.

Many fans consider Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood to be one of the best anime series ever made, and for good reason. Beyond its beautiful animation and fantastic music, the show is celebrated for its intricate and well-developed story. Every character, big or small, feels important and contributes to the overall experience. The journey of the Elric brothers is deeply connected to those around them, creating a memorable and impactful story for viewers.

2026-02-04 05:07