Don’t overlook the fact that superheroes extend far beyond the realms of DC Comics and Marvel. In fact, anime has a rich legacy of heroic tales on both the big and small screens. With that in mind, we’ve compiled a list of the top superhero anime for you to explore even more thrilling caped crusading.
Despite being two of the top anime of the past decade and successful superhero franchises on their own, One Punch Man and My Hero Academia may already be familiar to many of you. However, delving into the world of tokusatsu films and television, shonen manga, and more, will reveal a vast array of incredible characters and universes.
Many of them possess vibrant personalities similar to Superman or Spider-Man, but some also exude the dark and gloomy aura of Batman or the gothic style of The Crow and Hellboy. Some even have a downright somber tone, but that’s what makes them entertaining!
If you’re feeling fatigued by the MCU or simply seeking something new, our compilation of superhero anime covers all the essentials, and perhaps even some that you haven’t thought of before.
10. Darker than Black (2007)
Despite its title, this is not a typical story filled with colorful heroes and villains. Following a strange event that transformed major cities globally, individuals began exhibiting peculiar abilities.
Despite the governments’ decision to keep them a secret, a black ops subdivision was created where superpowered agents engage in conflicts over various targets. The series primarily follows Chinese protagonist Hei as he carries out missions within this secretive world. The overall nihilistic tone of Darker than Black adds to its appeal, giving the viewer a voyeuristic experience of catastrophic events that they do not need to emotionally invest in.
9. Tiger and Bunny (2011-2022)
Tiger and Bunny is not only a fitting name for a wrestling tag team with a magical girl theme, but it also shares many similarities with The Boys, albeit without the explicit content. In this alternate future where heroism is driven by corporate interests and TV ratings, Tiger, a seasoned professional, must face off against Bunny, a relative newcomer, in a battle of caped crusaders.
The two eventually become a dynamic duo, leading us on a journey through a retro-futuristic version of New York City. While the heroes serve as strong anchors, the setting is what often captures one’s curiosity, a common theme among shows with a similar backdrop.
8. Ultraman (1979/2019)
Two animated adaptations have been created for the long-standing live-action series, with one released in 1979 and the other in 2019. Both are highly recommended, featuring unique protagonists who possess the ability to transform into colossal beings to battle against kaiju and other dangers to society.
The source of their power is derived from an alien race with a symbiotic relationship. However, the focus is on the impressive transformations, advanced science fiction technology, and exhilarating battle scenes. Production IG was responsible for the 2019 edition, adding a sleek aesthetic to match the protagonist’s revival in Hideaki Anno’s Shin Ultraman.
7. One-Punch Man
Is there a superhero who is as direct as Saitama? He consistently demonstrates that one well-executed action is sufficient to halt wickedness in its path, as long as you incorporate the appropriate amount of daily cardio.
In One-Punch Man, the world of heroes is portrayed in a comical manner, mocking the common themes found in Marvel and DC comics. The concept of being a hero is portrayed as a fluctuation between grandeur and mundanity, depending on one’s level of skill. Saitama continuously outshines everyone, and as spectators, we eagerly return to see if there will be any change to his undefeated record.
6. Devilman Crybaby (2018)
A demon with a soul takes center stage in Masaaki Yuasa’s gruesome adaptation of Devilman, a series that may unsettle viewers who are unprepared for its intensity. The main characters, Akira and Ryo, must fight against a horde of demonic beings who seek to conquer Earth.
Despite the escalating chaos and devastation brought on by the unholy invaders, Akira and Ryo’s love remains at the center of their bloody defense. As everything falls apart, their bond only leaves a stronger impression.
s-CRY-ed (2001)
The city of Tokyo is currently split into two factions, each consisting of superpowered individuals. Amidst the ongoing conflict, there exists a pair of enemies, Kazuma and Ryuho. Kazuma serves as a hired soldier, while Ryuho works as a representative for the governing organization.
Despite the initial shock, they form an unexpected alliance after discovering that the sectarianism they were born into may not be as straightforward as they once thought. While S-CRY-ed may not have received widespread attention, it offers a dynamic and vivid narrative that bears resemblance to both X-Men and Attack on Titan.
Dragon Ball Z (1989-1996)
Consider this: Dragon Ball Z can be seen as a continuous observation of how Superman’s existence would lead to an ever-increasing danger. Goku, our Last Son of Krypton, makes a sacrifice at the beginning before undergoing training to return even stronger and confront the invading Saiyans.
In every subsequent Dragon Ball Z saga, a bigger, more bizarre, and more malevolent threat arises, constantly challenging the abilities of Goku and his superpowered loved ones. From space dictators, to robotic tyrants, to the enigmatic Buu, all these adversaries share one objective: defeat the Superman, or in this case, the Super Saiyan. Goku’s exceptional superhero skills continuously prompted the creation of even more formidable supervillains. It is no surprise that he ultimately decides to remain deceased.
3. Sailor Moon: The Anime Series (1992 – 1997)
A crossover of Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles and Sailor Moon would be a great idea, especially for someone like me who loves rainbows. Sailor Moon perfectly embodies a teenage superhero group, with its members being high school students who can transform into powerful Sailor Guardians to protect the galaxy.
The overall atmosphere and appearance are undeniably glittery, and their transformations continue to set the bar high. Sailor Moon remains popular today through fashion collaborations with brands such as Vans, and it’s important to not overlook any era of the show. It’s an incredibly enjoyable experience, especially when watching under the moonlight.
2. Chainsaw Man (2022 – Present)
By merely glancing at the chainsaws jutting out of Denji’s body, it is evident that Chainsaw Man will be intense. The show’s prominent body horror elements have only contributed to its popularity, with viewers being drawn to MAPPA’s impressively gory adaptation.
Despite the presence of those swirling blades, there is still a genuine sense of humanity in Chainsaw Man. It shines a light on the effects of poverty on the body, mind, and even the soul, in ways that many may not fully understand. Despite this heavy subject matter, Chainsaw Man also has moments of cuteness and showcases heroism in a time where traditional archetypes are becoming outdated.
1. My Hero Academia (2016 – Present)
The top-notch superhero anime, and truly one that lives up to its renown. Deku fulfills our wildest dreams as he transforms from an ordinary boy to the next Superman with the One For All quirk. He teams up with his fellow classmates in Class 1-A, where they all face some of the greatest challenges to date.
Just like X-Men: The Anime, this show is both heartwarming and lighthearted, yet also has a hint of darkness. Regardless of what happens to Deku and his friends, I will miss the sense of hope and commitment they bring, and you will too if you tune in.
These are the top superhero anime options. We also offer compilations of similar anime such as Solo Leveling, the best isekai anime, and the best anime movies for even more great choices.
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