Why do anime fans look for action-packed episodes? For a hundred reasons. Meaning, that some fans are looking to laugh or cry with the animes they watch, but why action? Well, others want adrenaline-pumping excitement intertwined with fantastic character development, engaging storylines, and impressive action.
This time, you’re taking things simple. You won’t learn about gacha, mecha, or slice-of-life animes. Those are more complicated genres, but you’ll look at action, a genre that has existed for thousands of years.
Best Action-Packed Animes
1. ‘Jujutsu Kaisen’ (2020)
Undeniably, the number one. In “Jujutsu Kaisen,” high school student Yuuji Itadori becomes part of the Tokyo Metropolitan Curse Technical College to work his way to achieving sorcerer status and put an end to the cursed spirits in possession of Megumi Fushiguro and Nobara Kugisaki, his schoolmates.
So, he collaborates with Satoru Gojou, a master sorcerer, so he and his allies can exorcise those bad spirits and defeat the nefarious Ryomen Sukuna, the cursed spirit within Itadori. But, to really defeat Sukuna, he must reconcile humanity with monstrosity.
2. ‘Kengan Ashura’ (2019)
Action animes are not just about action intertwined with adventures but also actual fighting scenes themselves. You know of fighting or boxing animes like “Hajime no Ippo,” but this is set in the contemporary period. “Kengan Ashura” is different because it is a fighting anime hosted during Japan’s Edo period, which ran from the 17th to 19th centuries.
To bring you back to history, during the Edo era, gladiator arenas hosted Kengan matches, a high-stakes battle that places everything on the line. What’s fascinating about this anime is its showcasing a diverse range of fights, particularly the showdown between Kanoh Agito and Kaolan Wongsawat. Yes, Wongsawat is Thai.
Watching the anime, you’ll immerse yourself in the alleyways of martial arts, making “Kengan Ashura” absolutely one of the best action animes to watch.
3. ‘Baki The Grappler’ (2021)
“Baki the Grappler,” otherwise known as “Baki Hanma,” is based on a popular manga series that tells the story of teenager Baki Hanma as he trains and puts his fighting skills to the test versus a wide range of enemies in no-rules hand-to-hand combats that are, of course, deadly. Be prepared to be on the edge of your seat!
4. ‘Demon Slayer: Kimetsu No Yaiba’ (2019)
From an anime with fighting action to that which takes you to a world reminiscent of the thrilling world of a video game. In “Demon Slayer,” demons kill Tanjiro Kamado’s family, save for his sister Nezuko, though she turns into a demon.
To resolve this, Kamado embarks on a journey to become a demon slayer so he can, at least, turn his sister back to her human form at least, if he cannot bring his family back again. He signs up for the Demon Slayer Corps under Sakonji Urokodaki’s tutelage. Urokodaki is an experienced swordsman.
Kamado is joined by a cowardly yet skilled swordsman, Zenitsu Agatsuma, and a brash fighter raised by boars, Inosuke Hashibira, who will become his allies. The rest of their adventures is history, and it’s for you to find out.
5. ‘Fate/stay night’ (2006)
Now, if you’d like to see action set in ancient times, “Fate/stay night” is proper for you. It will take you to a world where ancient heroes, historical figures, and mythological creatures participate in an epic battle royale for the Holy Grail.
This anime is strong because it has aired for decades, treating viewers to awe-inspiring sequences that challenge the boundaries of what’s possible in animation. Furthermore, what sets “Fate/stay night” apart is its noble warriors, epic battles, and supernatural powers that are nothing short of spectacular.
6. ‘Tokyo Ghoul’ (2014)
While the manga on which it is based considers itself a dark fantasy, “Tokyo Ghoul” is also filled with action.
Its story is set in Tokyo’s alternate version, where humans walk the streets with ghouls or beings who physically resemble humans but can only survive by eating human flesh. Now, college student Ken Kaneki sees him transforming partly into a ghoul after an encounter with one of them. Think of Marvel’s Venom. Like Venom, he must find the common ground between human life and his new life as a half-ghoul.
7. ‘Black Clover’ (2017)
“Black Clover” is the “Harry Potter” of animes. Magic is everything. The story sees Asta, one of the main characters, born in this world without powers. In spite of this, he perseveres to be the Magic Emperor alongside Yuno Grinberryall, his magical prodigy rival.
After receiving an anti-magic, five-leaf grimoire, Asta sees justice as he gains the ability to nullify the magic powers of others. With this, he can now help protect the Clover Kingdom from malevolent forces, together with fellow Black Bulls Magic Knights, such as fire-user Magna Swing.
8. ‘Naruto’ (2002)
You know this anime very well. “Naruto” revolves around the tale of Naruto Uzumaki, a young and innocent ninja who dreams of becoming a Hokage someday and being recognized by his peers. The series boasts a diverse cast, each with their own goals and backstories.
Aside from the action itself, “Naruto” stands out for its character development. The way they complement the intense and creatively choreographed battles is oh-so-stunning, making this anime a classic choice for those looking for action.
9. ‘JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure’ (2012)
Also based on a popular manga, this anime tells about the mysterious adventures of the Joestar family. It kicks off with their encounter involving Jonathan Joestar, his adoptive brother Dio Brando, and a Stone Mask capable of turning people into vampires.
10. ‘Mob Psycho 100’ (2016)
Last but not least is “Mob Psycho 100.” It captivates audiences with its fresh take on the classic “Spider-Man” branding, “With great power comes great responsibility.” But, it is unique because the hero is unaware of what his strength can really do.
Here, you have Shigeo Kageyama, the Mob in the title, a middle school who, despite his average appearance, wields an incredible psychic power.
Experience Action In Every Corner
Actually, action animes are more of like fluid. Most are not entirely action, but you’ll see action with drama, romance, adventure, and even comedy. In the expansive world of this genre, those nine above stand out.
