Top 20 Most Watched Animes of All Time: The Ultimate Guide to Anime's Greatest Hits
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The anime industry has exploded into a global phenomenon, with streaming platforms making it easier than ever to access thousands of titles. Based on viewership statistics, streaming hours, and cultural impact, here are the top 20 most watched animes of all time.
1. One Piece
Genre: Adventure, Fantasy Comedy | Episodes: 1000+ (ongoing) | Studio: Toei Animation
One Piece stands as an absolute titan in the anime world. With over 20 years of continuous broadcasting, this nautical adventure has become a cultural phenomenon. One Piece has generated 174.1 million views on Netflix since January 2023, cementing its status as a cornerstone of anime history.
The story of Luffy and his pirate crew's journey through the Grand Line resonates with viewers of all ages, combining thrilling action, emotional storytelling, and a lovable cast of characters that keeps audiences invested decade after decade. The anime features innovative and cool fight scenes, a lovable cast of pirate heroes, and complex worldbuilding that expands across the Grand Line's islands.
2. Naruto / Naruto Shippuden
Genre: Action, Shounen | Episodes: 720 | Studio: Studio Pierrot
According to Netflix's 2025 mid-year report, Naruto and Naruto Shippuden took the top spot with 40 million hours viewed, making them the most-watched anime franchise on the platform. The series generated 205.8 million views on Netflix between January 2023 and June 2025, proving its enduring appeal long after concluding.
The journey of Naruto Uzumaki from underdog to hero has inspired millions, with intense battles, character development, and themes of friendship and perseverance that continue to attract both longtime fans and newcomers. According to Netflix's second half 2024 report, 330 million hours of Naruto were streamed by Netflix subscribers, surpassing One Piece's 316 million hours.
3. Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba
Genre: Dark Fantasy, Action | Episodes: 63+ | Studio: Ufotable
Despite having fewer episodes than many competitors, Demon Slayer has managed an astonishing 153.2 million views on Netflix, showcasing the power of exceptional animation and storytelling. The Entertainment District Arc ranked first among all anime seasons with 34.3 million views, followed closely by the Mugen Train Arc with 32.4 million views.
The series' stunning visual presentation, combined with compelling characters and an engaging plot, has made it a phenomenon. The recent Mugen Castle Arc broke multiple Japanese box office records, demonstrating its massive cultural impact. According to Video Research, the Entertainment District Arc averaged 18.43 million viewers on Japanese television, with episodes reaching as high as 25.97 million viewers.
4. Pokémon
Genre: Adventure, Fantasy Comedy | Episodes: 1000+ (ongoing) | Studio: OLM
As one of the most recognizable franchises worldwide, Pokémon continues to capture audiences across all age groups. With 193.8 million views on Netflix since January 2023, Pokémon's mix of creature-catching adventure and accessible storytelling ensures it remains a staple in households globally.
The franchise's ability to evolve with each new region and generation while maintaining core appeal has kept it relevant for over two decades.
5. Dragon Ball / Dragon Ball Z
Genre: Action, Fantasy Comedy | Episodes: 500+ combined | Studio: Toei Animation
Dragon Ball's legacy as the series that helped pioneer anime in the West cannot be overstated. Dragon Ball Z defined the shounen action genre for an entire generation, with its influence on anime culture remaining immeasurable.
The epic battles, iconic characters like Goku and Vegeta, and the series' progression from martial arts tournaments to cosmic-scale battles have made it timeless entertainment that continues to attract new audiences.
6. Attack on Titan
Genre: Dark Fantasy, Action | Episodes: 139 | Studio: Wit Studio, MAPPA
With an average rating of 9.1 on IMDb based on 3.6 million votes, Attack on Titan stands as one of the most critically acclaimed anime of all time. The series' tight writing, state-of-the-art animation, and ability to maintain mystery throughout its run have made it a global phenomenon.
The Final Season concluded in 2023, leaving behind a complete story that explores themes of freedom, morality, and the cost of warfare in ways few anime have managed. The series wowed anime fans with its cutting-edge animation, exciting soundtrack, and the thrilling powers of Titan Shifters.
7. My Hero Academia
Genre: Superhero, Shounen | Episodes: 165+ | Studio: Bones
My Hero Academia has attracted millions of viewers with its superhero premise grounded in Japanese storytelling sensibilities. With 48.1 million views on Netflix, the series has proven that original anime concepts with mass appeal can compete with established franchises.
The story of Deku's rise from quirkless underdog to hero, combined with well-developed supporting characters and consistent animation quality, has made it a gateway anime for many viewers. My Hero Academia ranks among the most-watched anime from 2005-2025 because it has such magnetic appeal as shounen anime with a superhero edge to it.
8. Hunter x Hunter
Genre: Action, Adventure | Episodes: 148 | Studio: Madhouse
Hunter x Hunter earned 138 million hours streamed on Netflix and 138 million total views. The series is consistently ranked as one of the highest-rated anime with its complex magic system, strategic battles, and character development that sets it apart from typical shounen offerings.
The journey of Gon and his companions through the world of hunters showcases exceptional writing that balances action, character development, and world-building.
9. Black Clover
Genre: Fantasy, Shounen | Episodes: 170+ | Studio: Studio Pierrot
With 138 million hours streamed on Netflix, Black Clover has quietly become one of the most-watched anime despite receiving less mainstream attention than some competitors. The series' underdog protagonist and magical world have attracted a dedicated fanbase that continues to grow.
10. The Seven Deadly Sins
Genre: Action, Fantasy | Episodes: 100+ | Studio: A-1 Pictures
Generating 114.4 million views on Netflix since January 2023, The Seven Deadly Sins remains one of Netflix's most popular anime franchises. Its combination of action, humor, and compelling character arcs has ensured its lasting popularity.
11. Jujutsu Kaisen
Genre: Dark Fantasy, Shounen | Episodes: 50+ (ongoing) | Studio: MAPPA
Despite being one of the newer entries on this list, Jujutsu Kaisen has achieved remarkable success. According to Parrot Analytics data, Jujutsu Kaisen had a global demand rating 71.2 times greater than the average TV show in 2023, peaking at 128 times the average in December 2023.
With 87 million hours streamed on Netflix, the series has proven that exceptional character development and storytelling can quickly establish a new classic. The franchise is particularly popular with Gen Z viewers, comprising 71.3% of its audience, making it resonate with younger demographics more than One Piece (56.7% Gen Z) or Attack on Titan (64.4%).
12. Bleach
Genre: Supernatural, Shounen | Episodes: 366+ | Studio: Studio Pierrot
Bleach remains a cornerstone of shounen anime, with its unique blend of supernatural elements and action. The series' cultural impact and loyal fanbase ensure it remains among the most-watched anime, with recent resurgence thanks to the Thousand-Year Blood War arc adaptation.
13. Neon Genesis Evangelion
Genre: Mecha, Psychological | Episodes: 26 | Studio: Gainax
Despite having only 26 episodes, Neon Genesis Evangelion has achieved legendary status as one of the most superior entries in the mecha anime subgenre. The series holds a 100% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes, with critics describing it as "a cultural touchstone for Japan" that "doubles as an enthralling apex for the mecha anime genre."
Netflix's addition of the series in June 2019, followed by the global pandemic lockdowns, exposed new generations to this philosophical and psychologically complex classic, significantly expanding its viewership.
14. Death Note
Genre: Psychological Thriller | Episodes: 37 | Studio: Madhouse
Death Note's gripping premise of a notebook that kills anyone whose name is written in it has captivated millions. The series' intense psychological cat-and-mouse game between Light and L remains one of anime's most compelling narratives, earning it a well-deserved spot among the most-watched anime.
15. Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion
Genre: Mecha, Political Thriller | Episodes: 50 | Studio: Sunrise
With an IMDb rating of 8.7 and 97,000 votes, Code Geass combines mecha action with political intrigue. The series merges mecha action with political sophistication, with the main character Lelouch becoming an indelible strategist whose calculating acts conceal his humanity. Lelouch ranks among anime's most popular characters, contributing significantly to the show's massive appeal and viewership.
16. Steins;Gate
Genre: Science Fiction, Thriller | Episodes: 24 | Studio: White Fox
Steins;Gate has earned an 8.8 rating on IMDb with 88,000 votes, making it one of the highest-rated anime of all time. The series' complex time-travel narrative and character-driven storytelling have made it a modern classic that continues to attract viewers worldwide.
17. Mob Psycho 100
Genre: Supernatural, Comedy | Episodes: 37 | Studio: Bones
With an 8.5 IMDb rating and 60,000 votes, Mob Psycho 100 has proven that original anime concepts with strong writing and animation can reach mainstream audiences. The series' exploration of adolescence, psychic powers, and personal growth resonates with viewers worldwide, demonstrating exceptional balance between character development and entertaining narrative.
18. Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood
Genre: Dark Fantasy, Action | Episodes: 64 | Studio: Bones
Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood consistently appears on "best anime of all time" lists and is frequently cited as one of the most watched and acclaimed anime ever made. Its complete adaptation of the manga source material and excellent execution have made it a modern classic that bridges entertainment and storytelling mastery.
19. Vinland Saga
Genre: Epic, Historical | Episodes: 50+ | Studio: Wit Studio, MAPPA
Vinland Saga has captured audiences with its historical epic storytelling and visceral animation. The series' profound character development and exploration of themes like redemption and peace have made it one of the most respected modern anime. Visually stunning and filled with pulse-pounding action, the series features animation that captures the harshness of the Viking world and injects weighty emotional resonance.
20. Frieren: Beyond Journey's End
Genre: Fantasy | Episodes: 28 | Studio: Madhouse
Frieren: Beyond Journey's End currently holds the highest rating for any anime on IMDb at 8.9, with over 55,000 votes. This recent addition to the anime pantheon has quickly become recognized as a masterpiece for its beautiful animation, emotional storytelling, and exploration of time and mortality.
Why These Animes Lead the Pack
The animes that dominate viewership share several common characteristics: exceptional storytelling, high-quality animation, memorable characters, and the ability to resonate across cultural boundaries. Whether seeking action-packed adventures like One Piece and Naruto, psychological thrillers like Death Note, supernatural comedies like Mob Psycho 100, or emotional journeys like Frieren, the top 20 most-watched animes offer something for everyone.
The evolution of streaming platforms has democratized access to anime, allowing these series to reach global audiences in ways previously impossible. The anime industry continues to grow, with these titles remaining benchmarks of quality and popularity that inspire future creators and captivate audiences worldwide.
Whether starting an anime journey or deepening existing fandom, exploring these top 20 series offers an excellent foundation for understanding anime's cultural impact and artistic potential.