Top 100 Anime: According To Anime News Network

Hey anime lovers! Ever wondered what the absolute best anime are, according to the Anime News Network? Well, buckle up because we're diving deep into a list that's sure to spark some debate, some agreement, and maybe even introduce you to your next favorite show! Lists like these are always super subjective, right? What one person considers a masterpiece, another might find totally boring. But that's the beauty of anime – there's something out there for everyone, from action junkies to romance fanatics, and everything in between. So, let's explore this Anime News Network list, keep an open mind, and see what gems we can discover together.

What Makes a "Top" Anime?

Before we jump into specific titles, let's chat about what even makes an anime worthy of being called "top tier." Is it the animation quality that blows your socks off? Is it a gripping storyline that keeps you on the edge of your seat? Or maybe it's the characters that you fall in love with and root for every step of the way.

Animation Quality: First off, let’s talk about eye candy. Animation quality can seriously make or break an anime. Think about the fluid movements in Demon Slayer or the breathtaking backgrounds in Your Name. When the animation is top-notch, it just pulls you deeper into the story and makes the whole experience way more immersive. But hey, great animation isn't just about looking pretty. It's also about how well it conveys emotions and action. A well-animated fight scene can get your adrenaline pumping, while subtle facial expressions can make you connect with characters on a whole new level.

Storytelling Prowess: Now, let's dive into the heart of the matter: storytelling. A killer plot can keep you hooked from the first episode to the very last. Whether it's a complex mystery like Death Note or an epic adventure like One Piece, a well-crafted story is essential. But it's not just about the big plot twists and turns. It's also about the smaller moments, the character arcs, and the way the story unfolds. A great story knows how to balance action, drama, comedy, and everything in between. Plus, it knows how to keep you guessing without feeling contrived. It's a delicate balance, but when it's done right, it's pure magic.

Character Depth: Last but not least, we have character development. Characters are the heart and soul of any great anime. You want to root for them, cry with them, and celebrate their victories. Think about characters like Naruto, who starts as a knucklehead but grows into a respected leader, or Violet Evergarden, who learns to understand emotions through her work. Well-developed characters make the story more relatable and emotionally resonant. You become invested in their journeys, and their struggles become your struggles. When characters feel real, the whole anime feels more meaningful.

Ultimately, what makes an anime "top" is a combination of all these things – amazing animation, a captivating story, and characters that you genuinely care about. And of course, a healthy dose of personal preference! What are your must-have elements for a top-tier anime?

Diving into the Anime News Network List

Alright, let's get down to business. The Anime News Network (ANN) is a pretty respected source for all things anime, so their list is definitely worth checking out. Keep in mind though, that these lists often reflect the tastes and opinions of the ANN staff and community at the time they were compiled.

Popular Choices

You're likely to find some of the usual suspects on this list – the anime that have become cultural phenomena and are loved by millions worldwide. Series like Attack on Titan, with its intense action and complex storyline; Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood, known for its intricate plot and well-developed characters; and Spirited Away, the Studio Ghibli masterpiece that has captured the hearts of audiences of all ages. These are the titans of the anime world, and for good reason. They've set the standard for what anime can achieve in terms of storytelling, animation, and emotional impact. If you haven't seen them yet, what are you waiting for?

Hidden Gems

But the real fun of lists like these is discovering anime that might have flown under your radar. These are the hidden gems that deserve more love and attention. Maybe you'll find a quirky comedy, a thought-provoking drama, or a mind-bending sci-fi series that becomes your new obsession.

Controversial Omissions

Of course, no list is perfect, and you're bound to find some omissions that make you scratch your head. Maybe your personal favorite didn't make the cut, or maybe you think a certain anime is overrated. That's totally fine! Remember, taste is subjective, and what one person loves, another might not. Don't let a list dictate what you should and shouldn't enjoy.

Why These Lists Matter

So, why even bother with lists like the Anime News Network's Top 100? Well, for starters, they're a great way to discover new anime. If you're looking for something to watch and don't know where to start, a list like this can be a helpful guide. It can also introduce you to different genres and styles that you might not have considered before.

Starting Points for Newbies

If you're new to anime, these lists can be a fantastic starting point. They can help you navigate the vast and sometimes overwhelming world of anime and find series that are critically acclaimed and widely loved. Think of it as a curated selection of the best that anime has to offer. Plus, watching popular anime can help you understand the cultural references and tropes that are common in the anime community.

Sparks Discussion and Debate

Lists like these are also great for sparking discussion and debate. Everyone has their own opinions about what makes a great anime, and these lists can get people talking and sharing their thoughts. It's a chance to geek out with other fans and learn about different perspectives. Just remember to keep it respectful and avoid getting into flame wars! After all, we're all here because we love anime.

Acknowledging Anime's Impact

Finally, lists like these help to acknowledge the impact and importance of anime as an art form. Anime has become a global phenomenon, influencing everything from animation to fashion to music. By celebrating the best anime, we're celebrating the creativity and talent of the artists and storytellers who bring these worlds to life.

How to Use This List

Okay, so you've got this list in front of you. Now what? Here's how to make the most of it:

• Don't Take It as Gospel: Remember, it's just one opinion. Use it as a guide, not a rule book.
• Explore Different Genres: Step outside your comfort zone and try something new.
• Read Reviews and Discussions: See what other people are saying about the anime on the list.
• Trust Your Gut: If an anime sounds interesting to you, give it a shot, even if it's not highly ranked.
• Have Fun! This is all about discovering new and exciting anime, so relax and enjoy the ride.

Beyond the Top 100: Expanding Your Anime Horizons

While lists like the Anime News Network's Top 100 are great, the world of anime is vast and ever-expanding. Don't limit yourself to just the titles on these lists. There are countless other amazing anime out there waiting to be discovered. So, how do you find them?

Exploring Different Genres

Anime spans a wide range of genres, from action and adventure to romance and slice-of-life. One of the best ways to discover new anime is to explore different genres. Maybe you're a big fan of shonen anime like Naruto and Dragon Ball, but you've never tried a josei anime like Chihayafuru. Or maybe you're a seasoned veteran of mecha anime like Gundam and Evangelion, but you've never delved into the world of iyashikei anime like Aria. Stepping outside your comfort zone can open you up to a whole new world of anime possibilities.

Using Recommendation Engines

These days, there are plenty of online tools that can help you discover new anime based on your preferences. Sites like MyAnimeList and AniList have recommendation engines that suggest anime based on your ratings and watch history. These engines can be surprisingly accurate, and they can introduce you to anime that you might never have found on your own. Plus, they're a great way to connect with other anime fans and share your recommendations.

Following Anime News and Reviews

Staying up-to-date with the latest anime news and reviews is another great way to discover new anime. Sites like Anime News Network, Crunchyroll, and Funimation publish articles and reviews of upcoming and ongoing anime series. By reading these articles, you can get a sense of what's hot in the anime world and find new anime that pique your interest. Plus, you can learn about the creators and studios behind the anime, which can give you a deeper appreciation for the art form.

Attending Anime Conventions

If you're looking for a more immersive experience, consider attending an anime convention. Anime conventions are a great place to meet other fans, cosplay as your favorite characters, and discover new anime. Many conventions have screenings of upcoming anime, panels with industry professionals, and booths where you can buy merchandise. Plus, you can get recommendations from other attendees and discover hidden gems that you might not have found otherwise. It's a fun and exciting way to immerse yourself in the world of anime.

Final Thoughts

So, there you have it! A look at the Anime News Network's Top 100 anime and some tips for expanding your anime horizons. Remember, this list is just a starting point. The real adventure is in exploring the vast and wonderful world of anime and finding the series that speak to you. Happy watching, anime fam! What are your favorite anime of all time? Let's discuss in the comments below!