Most Popular Anime Genres & The Titles That Defined Them

Highlights

Anime isn’t a genre itself, but includes many genres like comedy, romance, and sci-fi.
Each genre has iconic shows like Sailor Moon and Naruto that define their categories.
Popular anime like Dragon Ball and Berserk set the template for successors in their genres.

As someone who grew up in the 2000s, I remember the buzz surrounding Elfen Lied like it was yesterday. The horror anime scene was still in its infancy back then, and Elfen Lied was one of the first titles to really capture people’s imaginations. And boy, did it live up to the hype!

Anime doesn’t represent a specific genre on its own. Instead, it’s a term used for Japanese animated productions, which come in various genres. Popular anime genres change with the times but often include humor, romance, or sci-fi themes. There exists an extensive range of anime genres, from lesser-known ones like healing (iyashikei) to widely recognized categories such as shōnen.

In every anime genre, you’ll find at least one beloved and widely-watched show, ranging from “Sailor Moon” to “Naruto.” These iconic, highly-viewed programs provide an excellent entry point for discovering the unique characteristics of each anime category. To truly understand what sets each genre apart, be sure to explore the standout animated series that represent their distinct subgroups.

As an avid anime fan with over a decade of experience under my belt, I can confidently say that the world of anime is vast and diverse, encompassing a wide range of genres and styles. However, not all anime are created equal. Some series have left indelible marks on the community and continue to shape the industry, while others may fly under the radar.

1 Shōnen – Dragon Ball

MyAnimeList Score: 7.97

Most Popular Anime Genres & The Titles That Defined Them

When Akira Toriyama, the creator of “Dragon Ball,” sadly passed away in March 2024, there was an overwhelming display of affection from fans all around the world. It’s no exaggeration to say that this series about a feisty monkey boy resonated with millions, if not entire nations. The final episode of “Dragon Ball Super” featuring Goku battling Jiren sparked such excitement in Mexico that the government organized public watch parties nationwide. This led to a small diplomatic issue when Japan asked them to cease, but Mexico chose to ignore their request.

In addition, Dragon Ball significantly shaped the genre of shonen anime as we recognize it today. The brutal battles in Fist of the North Star had largely disappeared by the end of the 1980s; however, Dragon Ball persisted throughout the 1980s and 1990s, leaving an indelible mark on every series featuring young boys growing more powerful through their adventures (such as One Piece, Naruto, My Hero Academia). Its iconic fights, memorable character designs, humorous idiosyncrasies, and even imperfections are globally recognizable, even among individuals unfamiliar with anime.

2 Shojo – Sailor Moon

MyAnimeList Score: 7.73

Without a doubt, this entry would be “Sailor Moon” for me. Not every shojo or magical girl anime fan may agree, but for a significant number of us, it’s the epitome and ultimate masterpiece in its genre. The show gained such popularity that Usagi, the moon warrior who battles evil, has become a beloved symbol of anime. Together with the other Sailor Guardians, she safeguards the world against Queen Beryl and her minions who drain energy.

I’m a huge fan of this groundbreaking series, and it left an indelible mark on anime history. Not only did it spawn numerous sequels, reboots, remakes, games, toys, and other media, but it also paved the way for shows with female leads. Shows like “Revolutionary Girl Utena,” “Tokyo Mew Mew,” and “Star Vs The Forces of Evil” were inspired by its wake. And it wasn’t just about the magical aesthetics – this series was forward-thinking in its dark turns, reminiscent of “Puella Magi Madoka Magica.” Moreover, it tackled progressive social themes, such as the romantic relationship between Sailor Uranus and Neptune, and the representation of trans characters in the Sailor Starlights.

3 Josei – Nana

MyAnimeList Score: 8.56

In the same vein as shojo manga, josei caters to an adult female demographic instead of children and teenagers. While romance may be present, it’s not the sole emphasis. Josei stories can explore mature themes such as complex relationships or serious life issues, like in “Chihayafuru” with its focus on karuta, or in “Nana,” which tackles grown-up challenges head-on.

Two young women named Nana, each with distinct personalities and goals, reside in Tokyo and form an unbreakable bond. Nana Osaki aspires for success and wealth through her rock band, while Nana Komatsu focuses on nurturing her romantic relationships. However, as they edge closer to achieving their dreams, the pressures test their friendship, compelling them to make challenging choices.

4 Seinen – Berserk

MyAnimeList Score: 8.59

As a fan, I’d describe it this way: Seinen and shojo have sister genres, with seinen being the older sibling. It’s primarily designed for men aged 18 and above, but its depth and mature themes resonate with a broader audience. The content can get pretty intense, though, with graphic violence and adult situations that might be too much for some viewers. For instance, “Fist of the North Star” is shonen with its non-stop action and gore, but “Berserk” takes it to another level.

Although well-known for being a manga due to various shortcomings in its animated adaptations, this renowned seinen anime continues to captivate audiences. The beloved 1997 series, while iconic, is a toned-down and censored adaptation of the “Golden Age” arc, produced with limited resources. Nevertheless, it remains one of the most acclaimed anime for its raw action, deep characters, and gritty themes. Guts’ experiences with Griffith and Casca delve into the complexities of revenge, ambition, and love. This series contains intense and graphic elements such as violence, bloodshed, and assault – viewer discretion is advised.

5 Fantasy – Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood

MyAnimeList Score: 9.09

Berserk could also count as the genre’s most iconic fantasy anime, but that would be greedy. As influential as it is, there is no shortage of fantasy anime to rival it, particularly for viewers who fancy something dramatic but not as heavy as Guts’ tortured life. Something like Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood, which combined mystical spells with steampunk technology, as Edward Elric seeks to restore his brother Alphonse’s human body by finding the Philosopher’s Stone.

Fullmetal Alchemist (2003) has earned a top rank among MAL’s favorite anime shows due to its distinctive mix of fantasy and sci-fi genres in the Elric Brothers’ journey, delivering poignant scenes (“Ed…ward…”), surprising turns, and epic battles. No other series quite compared to it at the time, being the original adaptation of FMA while the manga was still ongoing. The first half of the story was arguably brought to life more effectively in this version than in Brotherhood, but the second half veered off in a more peculiar direction.

6 Isekai – Sword Art Online

MyAnimeList Score: 7.21

As a dedicated gamer, I can’t help but be drawn to the captivating allure of Isekai stories. This genre has been making waves since the beginning of the 2010s, sparking popular sub-genres such as villainess narratives and dating simulation tales. But at its core, Isekai is simply an updated take on the classic portal fantasy trope. The protagonist finds themselves transported to another world through some inexplicable means, be it a fantastical realm or a virtual game landscape, much like in Sword Art Online.

In simpler terms, the story unfolds with Kirito’s journey from a beta tester to a renowned warrior in the mentioned VR MMORPG, saving its magical world of Aincrad from perils with his friends. Despite criticism for clichéd characters and repetitive narratives, this show has ignited creativity in numerous other series. Following its debut, an influx of popular shows featuring virtual realms or video game-like environments emerged, such as “That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime.”

7 Sci-Fi – Cowboy Bebop

MyAnimeList Score: 8.75

Anime’s development owes a significant debt to science fiction. Pioneering anime series from the 1960s, such as “Astro Boy” and “Giant Robo,” centered around themes of robots, aliens, and humanity’s role in their universe. Though these shows originated from manga in the 1950s, their age is starting to show. However, classic science fiction can maintain its relevance, as demonstrated by “Cowboy Bebop,” a 1998 anime series that remains just as impactful today as it was when first broadcast over two decades ago.

At a glance, the series features Spike Spiegel and his eclectic team of bounty hunters journeying through space for financial gain. Beneath this exterior lies an exploration of humanity’s diversity as it has expanded throughout our solar system, revealing the impact of this interstellar existence on individuals. The show strikes a perfect balance between gravity and levity, captivating audiences with its thought-provoking themes and lighthearted moments, garnering a massive following across the globe.

8 Mecha – Mobile Suit Gundam

MyAnimeList Score: 7.75

Mecha gained significant recognition within anime culture through works like “Giant Robo” and “Mazinger Z.” However, it was “Mobile Suit Gundam” that truly cemented its status as a defining element. In the realm of iconic anime characters, the RX-78-2 Gundam mech from MSG stands alongside Astro Boy, Sailor Moon, and Goku. This mech has become synonymous with anime itself. Previously, Yokohama showcased a life-size model of it in their city. Although it’s no longer there, fans can visit a similar model based on “Mobile Suit Gundam Unicorn” at Odaiba, Tokyo.

The first Gundam series, introduced in the late 1970s with Amuro Ray piloting the RX-78-2 against the Principality of Zeon, paved the way for numerous mecha series. Its themes of war casualties and teen protagonists influenced not only various Gundam sequels like Gundam Wing, but also darker shows such as Neon Genesis Evangelion. Meanwhile, its lighter aspects served as inspiration for series such as Macross and Tengen Toppa Gurren Lagann.

9 Sports – Haikyuu!!

MyAnimeList Score: 8.44

You mentioned “Haikyuu!!”, correct? This anime is well-liked among viewers, particularly its third season which set a new record as the highest-rated sports show on MyAnimeList. It stands out as the finest volleyball anime, with Shoyo Hinata’s determination to emulate the ‘Little Giant’ and excel in volleyball despite his short stature. The series offers plenty of humor, blossoming friendships, and edge-of-your-seat competitions that keep you on the edge.

From my perspective as a passionate gamer and anime fan, I’d say that Haikyuu!! may not be considered “genre-defining” by some purists. But let me tell you, this relatively new addition to the sports anime scene has left a significant mark on me. Compared to legendary series like Hajime no Ippo, Tomorrow’s Joe, and Slam Dunk, Haikyuu!! might not have the same historical impact. However, those classics were arguably more captivating in their original manga form, which could be harder to access or not as smoothly paced in their anime adaptations.

10 Adventure – One Piece

MyAnimeList Score: 8.72

Luffy and his Straw Hat Crew have been pursuing Gol D. Roger’s secret stash of treasure for a quarter-century. For those loyal to the manga, this journey began in 1997. Such an extended quest has resulted in an upcoming remake of “One Piece” anime, before its conclusion. The manga is nearing its end, and the anime will follow suit; however, the remake ensures Luffy’s gang remains a fixture for an extended period.

Despite not making it among the longest-running anime series or best-selling manga in history, One Piece has consistently delivered thrilling ocean voyages since its inception. In this journey, the protagonists encounter formidable foes with an impressive arsenal of abilities and tactics. Essentially, One Piece is an ideal choice for enthusiasts of adventure shows.

11 Drama – A Silent Voice

MyAnimeList Score: 8.93

As an anime fan, I’ve come to appreciate that not all popular titles are just about action and comedy. Many exceptional stories delve deep into serious themes and emotional depth, placing a significant emphasis on character development. One such example is “A Silent Voice.” This profoundly moving narrative takes viewers on an emotional journey, dealing with heavy topics like depression, disabilities, suicidal thoughts, and the harsh realities of bullying. While there may not be much lighthearted content in this film, the powerful storytelling leaves a lasting impact and warms the heart by the end.

At her new school, Shoko Nishimiya faces challenges in fitting in because of her hearing impairment, making her an unfortunate target for bullying led by Shoya Ishida. Matters escalate, and Shoya experiences the consequences when his classmates turn against him. Overwhelmed by guilt, he becomes fixated on gaining Shoko’s forgiveness.

12 Romance – Fruits Basket

MyAnimeList Score: 7.69 (2001), 8.21 (2019)

As a passionate gamer and storyteller at heart, I can’t help but be captivated by the allure of romance in various forms of media, whether animated or not. The intrigue of watching characters fall deeply in love, amidst diverse circumstances and fictional realms, is truly irresistible. Among these captivating stories, there’s one anime that stands out from the crowd when it comes to heartfelt romance: Fruits Basket.

Based on this foundation, it’s clear that the series goes beyond typical teen romance. By weaving in a captivating magical element, the story delves profoundly into the complexities of its unforgettable characters. Simultaneously, it brings to light significant bonds between friends and family, as well as heartwarming romantic connections. As Toru becomes entwined in the Souma saga, viewers are sure to be left both embarrassed and elated!

13 Boys Love – Given

MyAnimeList Score: 8.31

As a huge fan of anime and manga, I’ve always enjoyed the captivating stories of Fruits Basket. But as a member of the LGBTQ+ community, I can’t help but notice that our representation in these narratives has been limited. Don’t get me wrong, Boys’ Love (BL) stories have gained popularity both in Japan and the West, with shows like Yuri!!! On Ice and Junjou Romantica leading the way. However, I often feel that these depictions don’t always serve our community well.

The story revolves around the experiences of an unassuming rock band formed by amateurs. During a jam session, Ritsuka, who reluctantly teaches guitar to classmate Mafuyu, is struck by his singing ability. Touched by his voice, Ritsuka presses him to join their band as the singer. However, Mafuyu is hesitant due to the lingering pain of losing his boyfriend to suicide. He’s been struggling to find solace through playing his late boyfriend’s guitar and dealing with his grief. Their journey towards healing and growth, guided by Ritsuka, results in one of the most poignant love stories within anime, leaving a deep impact even in the BL genre.

14 Girls Love – Revolutionary Girl Utena

MyAnimeList Score: 8.21

As a huge fan of Revolutionary Girl Utena, I can tell you that this groundbreaking series holds a unique place in anime history. It weaves together the genres of fantasy and drama, deconstructs classic fairy tales, delves into complex themes like sexuality, morality, and abuse, and has significantly influenced shows like Steven Universe. Yet, at its core, it’s the story of me, just an ordinary girl, striving to earn the love and trust of another. Motivated by a kind prince who supported me after my parents passed away, I too aspire to become a “prince” – someone strong and capable enough to make a difference in people’s lives. By enrolling in Ootori Academy, I embark on this journey, eager to learn and grow while seeking the heart of someone truly special.

While exploring there, I came across a group of Duelists who fought over Anthy, the Rose Bride, believing she held immense power. Feeling appalled by how she was being objectified, I decided to join the duels as a self-proclaimed prince, determined to set Anthy free from their grasp. However, my opponents were no pushovers, and Anthy was far from an innocent flower girl. The series defied conventions with its intricate plot and remains a powerful force in entertainment today.

15 Comedy – Ouran High School Host Club

MyAnimeList Score: 8.16

In many television programs, comedy takes a back seat as the main themes are fantasy, romance, or adventure. Consequently, selecting an anime series that excels in comedy can be quite challenging. One noteworthy example is Ouran High School Host Club, which stands out for its amusing jokes, captivating dialogue, and absurd storylines. This show follows Haruhi, a freshman at Ouran Academy, who inadvertently gets identified as a boy due to her short hair and male uniform.

Haruhi’s misfortune doesn’t end there as she’s compelled to become a member of the Host Club, due to an unintended vase mishap. Despite its corny romantic undertones between Haruhi and Tamaki, this anime manages to preserve the carefree, outrageous spirit that defines comedy anime. The affable yet pampered Host Club members engage in uproarious exchanges with Haruhi from the middle class, resulting in hilarious scenarios born from their stark contrasts.

16 Musical – Carole And Tuesday

MyAnimeList Score: 7.85

Numerous musical anime, including those outside this genre, primarily use music as a plot device, despite dealing with musicians and the music industry. Intriguingly, “Carole and Tuesday” stands out by making music the core element. Each episode showcases stunning performances accompanied by an exceptional musical score and thought-provoking lyrics, setting it apart from other anime series.

The girl’s love for melodies is highly infectious as she faces off against other gifted artists in the Mars Brightest Competition, determined to demonstrate that human emotion surpasses what AI singers can offer. This inspiring show tackles weighty issues head-on, including racism, social class, and the plight of the LGBTQ community (though not without sparking debate).

17 Slice Of Life – Clannad

MyAnimeList Score: 7.99

In the visual novel titled “Clannad,” the story revolves around Tomoya Okazaki, a high school student with a delinquent reputation. His ordinary life takes an unexpected turn when he befriends Nagisa Furukawa, an unusual girl who expresses her likes enthusiastically as encouragement. Initially dismissive of her quirks, Tomoya eventually opens up to Nagisa and they form a deep friendship.

After that, he makes an effort to hide his emotions but reveals his compassionate side as he supports Nagisa in her goal of reviving the school’s drama club. This tale is uncomplicated and charming, less intense than other options presented here. Although it retains its dramatic elements, it does so in a more down-to-earth manner compared to nautical or interstellar adventures.

18 Historical – Rose Of Versailles

MyAnimeList Score: 8.33

Rose of Versailles isn’t just historical because of how old the series is (debuting way back in 1979). That’s because the entire plot revolves around the French Revolution and puts an intriguing spin on the iconic life story of Marie Antoinette. Set in the palace of Versailles, this story follows a Parisian noblewoman who is raised as a boy under the name of Oscar Francois de Jarjayes, because her father was in desperate need of a male heir.

As Lady Oscar grows older, her life becomes increasingly intricate, ultimately reaching a pivotal point where she must choose between assuming the masculine role of protector in the Royal Guard or pursuing a more feminine path. The allure of Oscar’s advanced age and gender-bending persona significantly impacted “Revolutionary Girl Utena.” Furthermore, this complex narrative shaped “Berserk,” with its intense drama that encompasses numerous unexpected developments throughout its 40 episodes.

19 Supernatural – Castlevania

IMDB Score: 8.3/10

As a passionate gamer, I can’t help but share my thoughts on the debatable classification of the “Castlevania” series as an anime. Some fans have raised eyebrows over its origins, as it was predominantly developed in America by American companies and one controversial English comic writer. Yet, it draws inspiration from the legendary Japanese video game franchise created by a Japanese company. Furthermore, many key personnel behind the project honed their skills in Japan’s anime industry. So, while some may argue, I believe “Castlevania” earns its place on this list due to its supernatural themes and influences from anime gems like “Berserk.” In essence, it carries the spirit of anime within its gameplay and storytelling.

In this rendition, the series abounds with creatures such as vampires, demonic beasts, mages, and necromancers, among others; the roster is endless! The narrative is steeped in a medieval ambiance teeming with sorcery, making the impossible appear real. An intriguing tale unfolds where humans, along with a dhampir, band together to obstruct Vlad “Dracula” Tepes’ bloody rampage. To shield the blameless, these improbable allies join forces, even as they struggle not to eliminate each other! Conversely, Dracula must depend on his human counterparts to quell some insubordinate vampire underlings. What a turn of events!

20 Horror – Elfen Lied

MyAnimeList Score: 7.47

In today’s anime scene, there are numerous horror options available, such as “Higurashi: When They Cry” and various attempts to adapt Junji Ito’s terrifying manga into animated series. However, before the streaming and social media era, one notable horror anime that gained immense popularity was “Elfen Lied.” This captivating story revolves around Lucy, a Diclonius – a genetically advanced human subspecies – seeking retribution against humanity for the inhumane experiments inflicted upon her.

I can’t help but be captivated by her story, but there’s one major obstacle preventing her from fully expressing herself: her complex personality, which transforms her into a simpler, more naive version of herself, often drawn in by kind-hearted college students Kouta and Yuka. However, it’s important to note that while her actions may be violent and at times comically horrifying, the themes of this story are just as brutal, revealing the darkest aspects of human nature. Lucy is a potential agent of genocide, but unfortunately, humans are capable of the same destruction when driven by their own biases and experiences.

2024-07-16 17:55