Best Anime Of 2024, Ranked
From thrilling new series to highly anticipated sequels, 2024 delivers some of the most captivating anime yet. Here’s a ranking of the top titles that are setting the bar for the year.
2024 has proven to be a stellar year for anime, delivering a vast range of exceptional shows across multiple genres. Whether you're into romance, action, isekai, comedy, sci-fi, or drama, this year’s lineup had something for everyone. Though a few series underperformed, the year was dominated by an abundance of anime that could easily be considered classics in the making. As anime fans, it’s clear that 2024 has been a thrilling time to be part of the community.
Given the sheer volume of fantastic content, it can be tough to pick out the standout stars. But the best anime of 2024 rose to the top, each bringing something unique and captivating to the table. Let’s take a closer look at these top contenders.
Updated on January 26, 2025, by Mark Sammut: With 2024 behind us and 2025 already underway, now is the perfect time to revisit the exceptional anime that made last year one to remember.
Honorable Mentions
The number of incredible shows in 2024 was so high that we couldn't fit them all in the rankings. However, there are a few shows that deserve a mention for their excellence:
Blue Box
Kaiju No. 8
Makeine: Too Many Losing Heroines!
Mushoku Tensei: Jobless Reincarnation Season 2 Part 2
Natsume's Book of Friends Season 7
Orb: On the Movements of the Earth
Ranma ½
Re:ZERO -Starting Life in Another World- Season 3
Solo Leveling
Welcome Home
Wistoria: Wand and Sword
Yatagarasu: The Raven Does Not Choose Its Master
KonoSuba: God's Blessing on This Wonderful World! 3
A Hilarious Isekai Anime Hits Its Peak: KonoSuba Season 3
2024 was a great year for isekai anime, especially with the continuation of fan-favorite series. Newcomers like Demon Lord 2099 and The Wrong Way to Use Healing Magic added some fun twists to the genre, but the best of the bunch were all sequels. Mushoku Tensei continued to impress with its world-building and animation in season 2 part 2, while Re:ZERO -Starting Life in Another World Season 3 offered a mostly fantastic experience, despite only airing eight episodes in 2024.
However, the crown for the best isekai goes to KonoSuba season 3. This latest season combines action, comedy, and character growth to a level that makes it arguably the series' best production yet. With a surprising focus on Darkness’s backstory, the season explores themes of responsibility, family, and integrity, all while keeping the humor at the forefront. Kazuma’s party now feels like a true family, with each member’s growth bringing the group closer together.
Kimi ni Todoke: From Me to You – Season 3
After a decade-long hiatus, Kimi ni Todoke returned with a season that lived up to its long wait. The third season follows Sawako and Shouta as they navigate the ups and downs of their relationship, adding realism to their romance as they face communication challenges. Beyond their dynamic, the season also delves into other budding romances, with Ayane and Kento’s relationship taking center stage. This season's portrayal of love and growth in young adulthood is heartwarming, making it one of 2024’s best romance series.
The Fable: A Dark Comedy That Keeps Getting Better
The Fable is a must-watch for fans of dark humor and mature content. The anime follows a hitman who, under forced alias, finds himself caught in a web of local Yakuza politics and personal protection duties. What stands out about The Fable is its sharp mix of comedy and drama, brilliantly executed in its unique art style. The series shines most when the lead characters, Akira and Youko, navigate absurd situations, all while maintaining a comedic charm.
[Oshi No Ko] – Season 2
2024 was a year of significant growth for [Oshi No Ko]. The anime’s second season delves deep into the world of theater and the process of adapting a manga into a production, providing plenty of standout moments for characters like Kana, Akane, and Aqua. Despite Aqua’s revenge plot taking a backseat in this season, the evolution of the characters and the exploration of the theatrical world made [Oshi No Ko] Season 2 one of the year's highlights.
Sound! Euphonium 3 – A Bittersweet Finale
The third season of Sound! Euphonium marks the end of Kumiko’s journey as part of her high school’s concert band. Focused more on character-driven drama than music performances, the final season tackles themes of change, growth, and uncertainty about the future. The series does a beautiful job blending optimism and bittersweet moments, making it an emotional farewell to a beloved series.
Girls Band Cry – The Best CGI Anime of 2024
Perhaps one of the biggest surprises of 2024, Girls Band Cry captivated audiences with its emotional depth and impressive CGI. The series follows Nina, a teenager with a troubled past, as she joins a band and embarks on a journey of self-discovery. With stunning animation and a powerful story about finding belonging, Girls Band Cry stands out as not just the best CGI anime of 2024 but one of the most moving series of the year.
Bleach: Thousand-Year Blood War - The Conflict
Bleach: Thousand-Year Blood War continues to shine, with The Conflict being arguably the best arc yet. The anime delivers breathtaking action sequences, expertly paced storytelling, and character development that keeps the stakes high. The return of familiar faces, coupled with jaw-dropping fights, ensures that this saga remains a standout action anime in 2024.
Monogatari Series: Off & Monster Season
The Monogatari series, as niche as it is, remains a work of art for those who love dense, quirky storytelling. Off & Monster Season stands out for its stellar direction and unique narrative style. It offers three distinct stories, each filled with absurd humor and deeply engaging character arcs. While Monogatari can be overwhelming to new viewers, it remains a masterpiece for those who are fans of the series.
Kingdom: Season 5 – A Historical Epic
Kingdom season 5 continues its epic saga with intense battles and a focus on strategic warfare. As the Hi Shin Unit faces off against the Zhao army, the anime explores the complexity of battle tactics and the intricate relationships between its characters. With massive stakes and a strong narrative, Kingdom season 5 remains one of the best historical anime series of 2024.
The Dangers in My Heart – Season 2
The Dangers in My Heart delivers a near-perfect rom-com with its second season, building on the chemistry between Ichikawa and Anna. The anime skillfully explores their budding relationship while addressing the insecurities and emotional growth of both characters. For fans of anime rom-coms, this season stands out as a masterclass in heartwarming storytelling.
Delicious in Dungeon – A Fantasy Adventure With Heart
Delicious in Dungeon captivated audiences with its mix of dark humor, gorgeous animation, and rich lore. The show’s balance between lightheartedness and intense moments allowed it to shine as a unique fantasy series. By the end of its 24 episodes, it had solidified itself as one of the most engaging anime of 2024, making the wait for its next season even more exciting.
Dandadan – The Best Anime of 2024
Topping our list is Dandadan, which delivered on its immense hype with a visually stunning adaptation full of lovable characters and heart-pounding action. Following the adventures of Momo and Okarun as they dive into the worlds of yokai and aliens, the series excels not just in its slapstick humor but also in its emotional depth. Dandadan’s energetic animation and character-driven storytelling make it the undisputed best anime of 2024.
2024 has truly been a remarkable year for anime, and these standout shows prove that the medium continues to grow in both creativity and emotional depth. Whether you’re a long-time fan or just getting started, these titles will leave a lasting impression. Keep an eye out for even more exciting releases in the year to come.