Whenever you watch animes, are you trying to determine which genre they belong to? You should do so because it will make you understand their stories even more. Today, there are more than 40 anime genres and subgenres. Did you even expect that?
Among those genres is the popular shonen. Shonen anime shows have stories that target adolescent boys. So, you either find these animes filled with action or there are attractive women, plus more. Let’s get to know the best shonen anime of all time.
1. ‘Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood’
Of course, perhaps no avid anime fan will oppose the fact that “Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood” is clearly the best shonen anime out there. Elric Brother’s search for the Philosopher’s Stone (sharing its name with the item in “Harry Potter” in “Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood” is a smashing version that’s an adaptation hard to resist and easy to get addicted to.
The anime’s fantastic character design and dynamic plot raise the bar and reset it, setting firm expectations on what anime fans should anticipate with a shonen show. Furthermore, the show is downright funny and action-packed, leveraging a unique alchemical magic system into a series you’d love to replay repeatedly.
When it comes to the fight scenes, it’s fabulous. They coincide with the thematically rich story arcs that are genuinely heartwarming and intriguing. Plus, the journey of brotherly love that’s as treacherous as a forest path. No wonder “Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood” is on top.
2. ‘Jujutsu Kaisen’
Don’t be surprised that most of the world’s most favored animes are on this list. Somehow, the genre of shonen anime is the default.
“Jujutsu Kaisen” is intelligently animated and meticulously paced. It will have you both at the edge of your seat and then abruptly on the floor laughing. The storytelling is witty, the villains are creatively designed, and there is gripping darkness in every corner.
You’ll encounter high school student Yuji Itadori itching to discover the occult, which takes him to an encounter with a cursed memento. Then, he gets plunged into a world of curses and witnesses their dangers to humanity while stumbling upon his newfound capabilities. Thus, he journeys to become a full-fledged Jujutsu sorcerer. “Jujutsu Kaisen” is always done right.
3. ‘Hunter X Hunter’
Ah, a certified classic. Third on the list is “Hunter x Hunter,” the anime that gave rise to merchandise like clothes and card games. This show is a thrilling, adventure-filled story about a teenage boy who likes to follow in his father’s footsteps as a Hunter. Widely respected for how its narratives can build around the most complex characters facing challenges in the setting, “Hunter x Hunter” will go down in history as a remarkable anime offering remarkable fight scenes, characters, and themes that will challenge your beliefs. When it comes to the battles, you must ensure you’ve eaten right because there’s no time you can leave your coach while it’s showing.
4. ‘Gintama’
“Gintama” is that shonen anime that you must not miss because it blends with science fiction and, get this, comedy. So, it’s like eating pizza with an exotic alcoholic beverage. Its storytelling is so seamless and even gets better as you move forward with its episodes.
Set during the Edo era, and not just that, but in an alternate world during that time, the eccentric tale of “Gintama” follows the silver-haired samurai named Gintoki Sakata and his clumsy attempts to face life’s challenges. As you tune in, there will be moments when he will parody other anime and manga tropes in a world where aliens have invaded Japan. The result: a chaotic and funny journey that brightens up your day. Light and airy.
5. ‘JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure’
It’s cool how the shonen animes listed here feature genre fusions that are unique against each other. Meanwhile, “JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure” is shonen plus a rare multigenerational dynasty. It follows the members of the Joestar clan. It’s even further unique because of its sly wit, and other themes pay homage to popular Western themes that add to the informality yet fun of this adventure-driven fantasy. Please take note that it’s also a fantasy anime. With heroes blessed with solid powers and immense psychic abilities, and really threatening villains, this anime will continue to offer adventures in the future, especially since you can re-stream them on popular platforms. There’s always something for everybody here.
6. ‘One Piece’
In your office, you’ll hear your co-workers talking about “One Piece.” As you commute home, such as on a train, you’ll see your seatmate watching “One Piece” on their phone. And, when you get home, your brother or sister is watching “One Piece,” too.
It’s just the anime that has overshadowed other animes of this kind. It tells about Monkey D. Luffy, the leader of the naughty yet good-hearted Straw Hat Pirates, on their search for a highly coveted treasure. It offers a perfect blend of action and laughter. It’s a story of friendship and how keeping each other’s company will take them to the time of their lives. Sorry, “Dragon Ball,” but “One Piece” is now a Netflix live-action series.
7. ‘Dragon Ball Z’
Of course, “Dragon Ball Z.” If you think of animes, this title is the first to come to mind. You know that this anime revolves around Son Goku and his friends as they attempt to defend Mother Earth in a classic battle between good and evil. The storylines are simple, relying on epic battles with countless villains that drive its plot and action moving forward. This classic anime knows how to make its mark, inspiring other animes produced after it. It’s also full of heart and humor. It’s a highly influential anime, indeed.
Immersing yourself in the best shonen anime largely depends on your choice. You can take your cue from this list of very popular anime or read further to find other shonen anime on the sidelights, yet still oozing with so much appeal. Complete your day with shonen anime.
