What makes a “shounen” anime great? Is it the epic storylines? The high-octane action set pieces? The refreshing humor that every other anime seems to miss out on? Perhaps there’s something about the character development, or the emotional depth that resonates with viewers. Whatever you love most about shounen anime, we’ve put together this list of 15 best shounen anime for your consideration.
We aren’t the only ones who believe in the enduring popularity of shounen anime. In fact, many of today’s most popular franchises are based on this decades-old format. As with any popular genre, there are also classic titles you’ll want to seek out if you’re considering taking a journey down the shounen path. These series have endured the test of time and are still entertaining today.
Shounen anime series cover the full spectrum of emotions, from comedy to drama to action. Whether you’re in the mood for a lighthearted comedy or a heart-wrenching coming-of-age story, there’s a shounen anime out there for you.
While all shounen anime have a few things in common, there is also a wide variety of differences. Some shounen anime are dark and serious, some are silly and light-hearted, some deal with mature themes, and some even cross over into the horror genre.
Not sure where to start looking? Here’s our list of the 15 best shounen anime we’ve seen to date.
1. Fullmetal Alchemist
Fullmetal Alchemist is the best shounen anime of all-time.
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Rod2. Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba
Demon Slayer is the thirteenth best shounen anime of all-time.
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3. Naruto
Naruto is the fourteenth best shounen anime of all-time.
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4. Death Note
Death Note is the second best shounen anime of all-time.
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5. Hunter X Hunter
Hunter X Hunter is the third best shounen anime of all-time.
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6. Hajime no Ippo
Hajime no Ippo is the fourth best shounen anime of all-time.
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7. One Piece
One Piece is the fifth best shounen anime of all-time.
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8. Gintama
Gintama is the sixth best shounen anime of all-time.
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9. GTO the Animation
GTO is the seventh best shounen anime of all-time.
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10. Gurren Lagann
Gurren Lagann is the eighth best shounen anime of all-time.
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11. Cross Game
Cross Game is the ninth best shounen anime of all-time.
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12. Attack On Titan
Attack On Titan is the tenth best shounen anime of all-time.
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13. The Promised Neverland
The Promised Neverland is the eleventh best shounen anime of all-time.
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14. Your Lie in April
Your Lie in April is the twelfth best shounen anime of all-time.
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15. Bleach
Bleach is the fifteenth best shounen anime of all-time.
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