Top 10 Highest Rated Anime by Toei Animations

Today, our focus will be on the top-rated anime created by Toei Animation, without getting caught up in the argument of whether they are overrated or underrated. Before we dive in, it’s important to remember that only one anime from each franchise will be included and this list only includes TV anime.

There will be a few unexpected entries on this list. Therefore, without any delay, let us delve into the list of the top-rated anime from Toei Animation.

10 Sailor Moon Sailor Stars

The MAL Rating is 7.95.

Ratings from: 57K users

Sailor Moon | Source: Sailor Moon Cosmos Trailer

Sailor Moon has reached the pinnacle of Mahou Shoujo, a well-known subgenre of Magical Girl. It has not only brought widespread popularity to this subgenre, but has also established an incredibly high standard. The last installment of this iconic series, Sailor Moon Sailor Stars, lives up to expectations and receives the highest ratings of the entire franchise. It is also one of the top-rated anime for Toei Animation.

Fist of the North Star

The rating for this show on MAL is 7.96.

Given a rating by: 45,000 users

“You are already dead.”

It is highly unlikely that you have never come across this dialogue if you have been a long-time viewer of anime. The phrase, which means “You Are Already Dead”in English, has become a popular meme that has spread beyond the world of anime and is still being referenced as recently as 2022.

Kenshirou, the 64th successor of the powerful fighting style Hokuto Shinken, is betrayed and abandoned in a post-apocalyptic world. Determined to rescue his fiancée Yuria from his rival Shin, he embarks on a perilous journey where he must confront formidable adversaries. This is a must-watch for fans of martial arts and science fiction.

The. Earthquake

Silver Fang

The Earthquake

The rating for this show on the MAL website is 8.02.

Assessed by: 12,000 users

Silver Fang, released in 1986, stands out on this list due to its Anthropomorphic theme. The anime portrays a power struggle between dogs and bears.

Gin, a tiger-striped Akita, is meant to become a skilled bear-hunting dog. However, his father is tragically killed by Akakabuto, a ferocious demon bear. As a result, Gin is chosen to take over his father’s role as a successor. In order to defeat Akakabuto, who is gathering allies, Gin embarks on a journey across Japan to find his own. This story is a classic shounen tale, and if you’re looking for a canine protagonist, be sure to add Silver Fang to your watchlist.

7. Romantic Comedy Anime: Lovely Complex

The show has a MAL rating of 8.03.

Assessed by: 294,000 users

Despite being known for its battle-shounen heavy line-up, Toei has managed to produce a highly-rated rom-com anime with their adaptation of Lovely Complex. This serves as a testament to the quality of the series.

The story centers on two characters who struggle with their height difference. Atsushi is shorter than most men, while Risa is taller than most women. When their respective love interests fall for each other, they find comfort in one another’s company. Surprising emotions begin to surface.

Girls Band Cry

The MAL Rating is 8.10.

Evaluated by: 6,000 users

Girls Band Cry | Source: Official Website

Yes, it is a recency bias.

So, how recent is it? It was released in April 2024 and is currently still airing.

One notable aspect of Girls Band Cry is its use of CG animation, which Toei has been testing out in their recent Dragon Ball films and the latest Slam Dunk movie with great success.

In addition, this anime follows the story of Nina Iseri, a 17-year-old girl whose constant misfortunes lead her down an unexpected path where she forms a band with her favorite guitarist. Together, these girls face the challenges of the oversaturated music industry with their shared dreams and passion for music.

Dragon Ball Z

The MAL rating for this show is 8.18.

Reviewed by: 848,000 users

Goku is a well-known character, recognized by people of all levels of knowledge in the world of anime. His fame stems from his appearance in Dragon Ball Z, a series that has gained global popularity and adoration. It is safe to say that without the influence of DBZ, the anime industry would not have achieved the same widespread success it enjoys today.

Despite the release of new sequels and movies for this franchise, Dragon Ball Z continues to hold its place as a popular series due to its introduction of three levels of Super Saiyan and its portrayal of powerful villains such as Frieza (who is still a formidable opponent), Cell, Buu, and others. It remains a cherished childhood memory for many 90s kids.

4. Season 3 of the Anime Series World Trigger

The MAL Rating is 8.25.

Evaluated by: 45K individuals

Is it possible that this is just recency bias? Perhaps. But is it overrated? Absolutely not.

World Trigger Season 3 surpasses its prequels in every aspect. The storytelling, action, and animation quality are all elevated to new heights, making it a highly anticipated release. After viewing all three seasons, it is evident that World Trigger S3 deserves its high rating, with perhaps a slight influence of recency bias.

Despite their strong desire to join the mission to the Neighbor’s dimension, Tamakoma-2 is facing even more intense competition in the B-rank Wars. As they welcome a new member to their squad, they must continue to push themselves to the limit in order to secure their place in the upcoming mission.

3 Mononoke

The rating on MAL is 8.42.

Evaluated by: 94K users

Mononoke by Toei Animation — Mononoke | Source: IMDB

Mononoke is often likened to a peaceful morning stroll, where one can breathe in the crisp air and listen to the birds singing without any interruptions. This is precisely why the anime is held in high regard within the community. Its art, color scheme, storytelling, and every other aspect of the show is rejuvenating.

The tale follows the journey of a medicine vendor as he roams through Feudal Japan, banishing Mononoke, malevolent spirits. Mononoke is a flawless representation of psychological horror, particularly for enthusiasts of this type of storytelling.

Slam Dunk

The MAL rating for this show is 8.54.

Assessed by: 137K users

At first, I was hesitant to watch Slam Dunk because I based my decision solely on its cover. However, I eventually gave it a chance, and I can honestly say that it was the greatest decision I’ve ever made. While there are some flaws, its impressive strengths in all other areas more than make up for them.

Sakuragi Hanamichi is devastated when a girl he was dating suddenly leaves him for a basketball player. His disdain for sports only grows stronger, until he meets a girl who introduces him to the world of basketball. Determined to win her affections, Sakuragi joins the basketball team and works tirelessly to earn a spot on the team and impress the girl he is infatuated with.

One Piece

The MAL Rating for this show is 8.72.

Reviewed by: 1.3 million users

Toei Animation’s strongest and highest-rated anime is One Piece, serving as a cornerstone for the company. This should come as no surprise, as the anime consistently maintains a high level of quantity and quality. While there may be some fluctuations, One Piece remains one of the top adventure-shounen series, if not the very best.

Luffy is driven by a pirate he admires to pursue his own dream of becoming a pirate, but not just any pirate – he aspires to become the Pirate King. Despite not being taken seriously at first, his continually rising bounty serves as a warning to all that the Pirate King’s throne will soon have a new occupant.

Final Thoughts

It is highly likely that there are several names on this list that you are not familiar with, which may prompt you to consider them. If you are curious, you may want to investigate these names to determine if their ratings are accurate. Additionally, if you are interested in a compilation of Toei Animation’s top-rated movies, please feel free to reach out to me.