Top 10 Best Anime of 2024 Ranked

2024 is shaping up to be an unforgettable year for anime enthusiasts. With an explosive lineup of returning fan favorites and bold newcomers, each series offers a unique flavor that has us counting down the days. Picture this: heart-pounding action sequences, tear-jerking character arcs, and jaw-dropping animation that feels like a masterpiece in motion. This year, we’re not just witnessing stories – we’re experiencing worlds coming to life.

As we dive into this list, we’ll rank these ten remarkable shows based on their official ratings, animation quality, storytelling, and their ability to transport us into unforgettable realms. Whether you’re drawn to intricate psychological battles, epic fantasy realms, or heartwarming moments of human connection, this list has something for every kind of anime fan. Let’s get started with our ranking of the Top 10 Best Anime of 2024.

10. That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime (Season 3)

• Genre: Fantasy, Isekai, Action
• Official Rating: 8.6/10
• Animation Studio: Eight Bit

Rimuru Tempest returns in That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime (Season 3) with more thrilling adventures, political intrigue, and world-building that continues to elevate the isekai genre. This season dives deeper into the challenges of ruling a monster nation as Rimuru faces new threats and alliances, all while striving to create a world where coexistence is possible.

Eight Bit has outdone themselves with visually stunning animation, from lush fantasy landscapes to epic battles filled with dazzling magic effects. The attention to detail in character designs and world-building immerses viewers in Rimuru’s ever-expanding universe, where every corner feels alive and vibrant.

The storytelling shines with its blend of action, strategy, and emotional depth. Rimuru’s journey as both a leader and a friend resonates with viewers, offering moments of triumph, loss, and introspection. The series balances high-stakes drama with lighthearted humor, making it a must-watch for fans of the isekai genre and beyond.

9. Dandadan

• Genre: Supernatural, Comedy, Action
• Official Rating: 8.7/10
• Animation Studio: MAPPA

Dandadan is one of the quirkiest and most innovative anime of 2024, delivering a wild ride that blends supernatural battles with heartfelt character connections and offbeat humor. The story follows Momo Ayase and Ken Takakura, two teens who stumble upon a bizarre world of yokai, aliens, and chaotic energy. From absurdly hilarious moments to pulse-pounding fights, this anime defies conventions in the best way possible.

MAPPA once again flexes its animation prowess, with stunning visuals that seamlessly transition between eerie supernatural horror and vibrant comedic expressions. The fight scenes are a visual spectacle, filled with frenetic energy and creative choreography that keeps viewers hooked. Meanwhile, the character designs and their interactions carry a distinct charm, making every moment between Momo and Ken feel genuine and entertaining.

What truly sets Dandadan apart is its ability to balance chaos with heartfelt storytelling. Beneath the zany exterior lies a touching exploration of friendship, belief, and overcoming personal fears. It’s an unpredictable rollercoaster of emotions that captures the essence of what makes anime such a versatile medium.

8. Sound! Euphonium (Season 3)

• Genre: Drama, Music, Slice of Life
• Official Rating: 8.8/10
• Animation Studio: Kyoto Animation

Few studios capture the beauty of everyday life like Kyoto Animation, and Sound! Euphonium (Season 3) is yet another testament to their mastery. This season dives deeper into the personal struggles and aspirations of the Kitauji High School Concert Band, focusing on Kumiko Oumae as she steps into a leadership role.

The animation is nothing short of breathtaking, with each frame radiating the care and attention to detail that Kyoto Animation is known for. From the shine on brass instruments to the subtle shifts in body language during emotional conversations, the visuals make the story feel deeply personal and immersive.

The storytelling is gentle yet powerful, exploring themes of growth, teamwork, and the bittersweet nature of pursuing one’s dreams. The music is a character in its own right, with breathtaking performances that stir the soul and leave a lasting impression. Sound! Euphonium (Season 3) is a heartfelt journey that reminds us of the power of music and the bonds it creates.

7. Classroom of the Elite (Season 3)

• Genre: Psychological, Drama, Mystery
• Official Rating: 8.9/10
• Animation Studio: Lerche

Returning with more mind games and shocking twists, Classroom of the Elite (Season 3) continues to explore the cutthroat world of Advanced Nurturing High School, where survival depends on intelligence, manipulation, and ambition. This season brings Ayanokoji Kiyotaka’s cunning strategies to the forefront as he navigates even more dangerous challenges and rivalries.

Lerche’s animation does an excellent job of portraying the tension and psychological warfare that defines the series. Subtle facial expressions, clever use of lighting, and sleek character designs elevate the mind games to a cinematic level. The pacing is sharp, ensuring viewers remain on the edge of their seats as each layer of the plot is peeled back.

What sets this anime apart is its exploration of human nature and morality, wrapped in a high-stakes environment. The storytelling is razor-sharp, with every move Ayanokoji makes leaving you wondering what his true motives are. Classroom of the Elite (Season 3) proves that brains can be just as thrilling as brawn, making it a must-watch for fans of intellectual drama.

6. Kaiju No. 8

• Genre: Action, Sci-Fi, Fantasy
• Official Rating: 9.0/10
• Animation Studio: Production I.G

In a world plagued by giant monsters, or kaiju, Kaiju No. 8 introduces us to a refreshing take on the genre by blending thrilling action with heartfelt character moments. Kafka Hibino, a former kaiju cleanup worker, finds himself transformed into a humanoid kaiju, caught between his humanity and newfound monstrous powers. This anime delivers a gripping narrative about redemption, friendship, and the unyielding desire to protect others.

Production I.G’s stellar animation brings these colossal battles to life with jaw-dropping detail. The sheer scale of the kaiju and the intricate designs of the Defense Force’s weaponry make every fight feel like an epic showdown. The animation is complemented by bold, dynamic camera angles that heighten the tension during action scenes.

The story doesn’t just focus on the kaiju threat; it also dives into the personal struggles of Kafka and his comrades, making their victories and losses deeply resonant. With a score that perfectly balances intensity and emotion, Kaiju No. 8 stands out as a thrilling and heartfelt addition to the 2024 anime lineup.

5. Bleach: Thousand-Year Blood War – The Conflict (Part 3)

• Genre: Action, Supernatural, Fantasy
• Official Rating: 9.1/10
• Animation Studio: Pierrot

The stakes have never been higher in Bleach: Thousand-Year Blood War – The Conflict, as the war between Soul Reapers and Quincy reaches a fever pitch. This season delivers everything fans have been craving: intense battles, high-stakes drama, and revelations that change everything we thought we knew about the Bleach universe.

Studio Pierrot has pulled out all the stops with animation that feels alive with energy and intensity. From the vivid details of Bankai activations to the raw emotion etched on characters’ faces, every moment is a visual spectacle. The fight choreography is nothing short of breathtaking, with Ichigo Kurosaki and his allies taking on foes that push them to their limits.

What makes this season truly shine is its emotional weight. The storytelling delves deep into the sacrifices and burdens carried by its characters, reminding us why we’ve been invested in their journeys for so long. Coupled with a thunderous soundtrack that amps up the adrenaline, Bleach: Thousand-Year Blood War – The Conflict secures its spot as one of 2024’s standout anime

4. Mushoku Tensei: Jobless Reincarnation (Season 2 Part 2)

• Genre: Fantasy, Adventure, Drama
• Official Rating: 9.2/10
• Animation Studio: Studio Bind

Few anime have managed to redefine the isekai genre quite like Mushoku Tensei, and the continuation of Season 2 delivers even more of its signature brilliance. This part of the story dives deeper into Rudeus Greyrat’s struggles, blending emotional growth with the jaw-dropping magical escapades that have become a hallmark of the series.

Studio Bind’s animation once again shines with fluid, spellbinding combat sequences and lush world-building that immerses viewers in its fantastical realms. Every scene feels meticulously crafted, whether it’s a heartfelt conversation under a starlit sky or a climactic magical duel. The character development this season is particularly striking, as Rudeus confronts his own vulnerabilities and takes steps toward maturity.

The anime’s storytelling is a perfect balance of introspection and adventure. It doesn’t shy away from exploring complex themes like redemption and self-discovery, all while keeping us on the edge of our seats with its richly detailed world. The soundtrack enhances the experience, with poignant melodies that pull at your heartstrings during emotional moments. Mushoku Tensei: Season 2 Part 2 is not just an isekai—it’s a deeply human story wrapped in a magical package.

3. Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End

• Genre: Fantasy, Adventure, Drama
• Official Rating: 9.3/10
• Animation Studio: Madhouse

Imagine a story that begins where most tales end: the hero’s journey is over, but what happens next? Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End explores this poignant question with a depth and beauty rarely seen in the medium. Following the elf mage Frieren as she reflects on her past adventures and companions, the series is a heartfelt meditation on time, memory, and legacy.

Madhouse’s animation captures the ethereal quality of Frieren’s world, with landscapes that look like they were pulled from a dream and character designs that exude warmth and emotion. The pacing is deliberate, allowing viewers to soak in the weight of each moment. Frieren’s quiet introspection is complemented by stunning visuals and a hauntingly beautiful score that underscores the passage of time.

This anime’s storytelling is what elevates it to greatness. It’s a reminder of the fleeting nature of life and the importance of cherishing every bond and memory. For fans of introspective, emotionally rich narratives, Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End is a must-watch.

2. Solo Leveling

• Genre: Action, Fantasy, Adventure
• Official Rating: 9.4/10
• Animation Studio: A-1 Pictures

One of the most anticipated adaptations of the decade, Solo Leveling has arrived, and it does not disappoint. The story follows Sung Jin-Woo, an E-Rank Hunter turned unstoppable Player, as he rises from the depths of weakness to unmatched power. A-1 Pictures’ animation brings to life the gritty yet fantastical world of dungeons, monsters, and jaw-dropping boss battles.

The animation style seamlessly blends hyper-realistic fight scenes with a vibrant fantasy aesthetic, making every frame a visual feast. Sung Jin-Woo’s transformation, both in strength and character, is depicted with a level of nuance that’s both inspiring and thrilling. The HUD-like interface, a nod to RPG gaming mechanics, adds a unique flair, immersing viewers further into the narrative.

What makes Solo Leveling stand out is its pacing and intensity. From heart-stopping dungeon raids to deeply personal moments with Jin-Woo’s family, the series masterfully balances action and emotion. The soundtrack amplifies the tension, and the voice acting brings out every ounce of determination, despair, and triumph. This anime is not just a journey; it’s a spectacle.

1. Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba (Season 4)

• Genre: Action, Fantasy, Supernatural
• Official Rating: 9.6/10
• Animation Studio: Ufotable

If there’s one anime that redefines perfection in animation, it’s Demon Slayer. With Season 4, Ufotable has once again delivered visuals so breathtaking that every frame could hang in an art gallery. The storytelling takes a dark and emotional turn as Tanjiro faces his toughest battles yet, confronting the horrors of Muzan Kibutsuji’s upper ranks.

Imagine the sound of a katana slicing through air, matched by hauntingly beautiful musical scores that linger in your mind long after the credits roll. This season doesn’t just tell a story—it immerses you in a visceral experience, bringing to life the rich hues of Japanese folklore with cinematic brilliance. Every detail, from the shimmer of fire breathing techniques to the poignant expressions of its characters, feels like it’s crafted with a touch of magic.

What sets Demon Slayer: Season 4 above the rest is its unparalleled combination of heart-pounding battles and emotional depth. The intricate relationships among the Demon Slayer Corps keep us invested, while the animation continues to raise the bar for the industry. With its ability to make you cry and cheer within minutes, this season claims the top spot on our list.

Final Thoughts

With an incredible lineup like this, 2024 is a year that will leave anime fans spoiled for choice. Each of these titles brings something unique to the table, from jaw-dropping animation to unforgettable storytelling. Whether you’re seeking heart-pounding battles, introspective journeys, or heartfelt moments of connection, this list has you covered.

So, grab your favorite snacks, clear your watchlist, and prepare for a year of anime excellence. Which of these titles are you most excited to dive into? Let us know in the comments below