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From the days of buying DVDs to catch up with Naruto episodes, to late-night binge marathons of Attack on Titan on streaming sites, anime culture in Nigeria is as passionate as it is eclectic. It’s in the memes that flood Twitter timelines, the cosplay that lights up comic conventions in Lagos, and the heated debates about whether One Piece will ever actually end.

So, I asked Nigerian fans themselves to pick the absolute best of the best, and what I got is a list that’s as surprising as it is inevitable: a mix of long-time classics, cult favourites, and new-gen hits that have taken over YouTube and TikTok feeds. This ranking captures not just the best storytelling and animation quality but also how deeply these shows have embedded themselves into Nigerian pop culture and youth consciousness.

Whether you’re a die-hard otaku, a casual watcher, or a friend who promises to “start anime soon,” here are the 40 best anime shows, ranked by Nigerian fans.

40. (2014)

Genre: Action

Seasons: 5

Episodes: 100

The story begins in the kingdom of Liones when Princess Elizabeth seeks out the legendary group of knights known as the Seven Deadly Sins—warriors once accused of plotting a coup, now scattered and branded traitors. Her mission? To reunite them and stop the corrupt Holy Knights who have seized control of the kingdom.

“I like it because I love fantasy shows.” — Abdulmaleek, 21.

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39. (2004)

Genre: Action

Seasons: 1

Episodes: 26

Three unlikely companions hit the road together: Mugen, a wild swordsman whose fighting style is inspired by breakdancing; Jin, a calm and precise ronin; and Fuu, a feisty waitress on a mission to find “the samurai who smells of sunflowers.” Their journey takes them through episodic adventures packed with sword fights, eccentric characters, and unexpectedly emotional moments.

“I love the blend of samurai drama with urban culture elements like DJ scratches, beats, graffiti and the iconic Nujabes soundtrack.” — Marv, 27.

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38. (2014)

Genre: Action, Adventure
Seasons: 1
Episodes: 24

Tatsumi, a naive swordsman from the countryside, heads to the capital in search of fortune — only to discover it’s rotting with corruption. After a deadly encounter, he joins Night Raid, an elite band of assassins determined to overthrow the Empire. Each member wields a legendary weapon called a Teigu, and every battle feels like it could be their last.

“It has characters that have grown to love, despite that they might get taken out in the most shocking and tragic way.” — Francis, 25.

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37. (2008)

Genre: Horror, Thriller
Seasons: 1
Episodes: 13

This surreal psychological thriller explores urban fear, collective hysteria, and the strange ways society processes pressure. It begins with a mysterious assailant nicknamed Lil’ Slugger — a boy on rollerblades wielding a golden baseball bat — attacking random people in Tokyo. As detectives close in, the line between reality and delusion begins to blur.

“It’s the kind of anime that sticks with you long after the credits roll.” — Ayomide, 23.

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36. (2014)

Genre: Horror
Seasons: 2
Episodes: 24

A dark plunge into a world where humans share their cities with flesh-eating ghouls who look just like everyone else, but survive only by consuming human flesh. The story follows Ken Kaneki, a shy, bookish college student whose life changes violently after a wrong date turns him into a half-ghoul.

“It’s not just about monsters, it’s about how far you’ll go when the world forces you to change.” — Edwin, 25.

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35. (2022)

Genre: Sports

Season: 2

Episodes: 38

After Japan’s national team suffers a humiliating World Cup exit, a radical new programme is launched to gather 300 of the country’s most talented young strikers and pit them against each other in a high-stakes elimination game to create the ultimate ego-driven goal scorer.

“Blue Lock isn’t about teamwork in the regular sense. It’s more about sharpening individuality until it becomes unstoppable.” — Caleb, 25.

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34. (2014)

Genre: Sports
Seasons: 4
Episodes: 85

This show follows Shoyo Hinata, a short but fiercely determined volleyball player. After a crushing middle school defeat to prodigy setter Tobio Kageyama, Hinata unexpectedly ends up as Kageyama’s teammate at Karasuno High.

“This series captures the grind and joy of sports while never losing humour. It’s less about winning and more about growth, teamwork and pushing past limits. Even if you’ve never touched a volleyball, it’ll make you feel like you could serve an ace in the finals.” — Olorundare, 30.

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33. (2022)

Genre: Horror
Seasons: 1
Episodes: 12

It follows Denji, a broke teenager saddled with his late father’s debt to the yakuza. His only companion is Pochita, a tiny devil with a chainsaw for a nose. After a betrayal that leaves him dead, Pochita fuses with Denji, reviving him as the half-human, half-chainsaw hybrid known as Chainsaw Man.

“What makes Chainsaw Man stand out to me is its mix of grindhouse gore and stylish animation. Denji isn’t a noble hero, his goals are hilariously mundane. But he has an impulsive humanity that keeps him relatable.” — Esther, 26.

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32. (2023)

Genre: Action, Adventure
Seasons: 3
Episodes: 24

The story follows Mark Grayson, a seemingly ordinary teenager whose father, Nolan, is the world’s greatest superhero, Omni-Man. When Mark’s own powers awaken, he’s eager to follow in his father’s footsteps.

“Honestly, at first I was like nope because I don’t like English anime, whether it is subbed or originally English-made. But Invincible? That was an experience. It’s like a stronger Superman.” — Erioluwa, 22.

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31. (2018)

Genre: Romance
Seasons: 1
Episodes: 13

Violet, a former child soldier, becomes an Auto Memory Doll—a ghostwriter who helps people express their deepest emotions through letters—after the war.

“The series is a feast for the eyes. But beyond the aesthetics, the raw emotions in every episode always stand out. Whether it’s grief, love or closure, each one leaves an ache in your chest.” — Idris, 25.

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30. (2016)

Genre: Action, Comedy
Seasons: 3
Episodes: 37

An awkward middle schooler with overwhelming psychic powers could easily destroy cities with his abilities, but all he really wants is a normal life, friends, and maybe some muscles to impress his crush.

“I really love how Mob’s emotional state is tied directly to his powers. So, when his feelings hit “100%,” things get explosively out of control. It gives me a thrill.” — John, 24.

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29. (2017)

Genre: Action
Seasons: 1
Episodes: 293

The sequel to the massively popular Naruto series shifts the spotlight to the next generation of ninja in the Hidden Leaf Village. At its centre is Boruto Uzumaki, the son of Naruto—now the Seventh Hokage—who’s determined to carve out his own path and escape the shadow of his father’s legendary reputation.

“This opinion is probably controversial, but I prefer Boruto to the OG. The animation in Boruto is at its peak, and the writing is out of this world. Seeing the Genins and Chunins from Naruto’s time, grown is really fire. It doesn’t sit well with me that Orochimaru isn’t in jail or worse, though. Man’s a devil. — Medio, 20.

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28. (2019)

Genre: History
Seasons: 2
Episodes: 48

A historical epic that blends Viking legend with a deeply human tale of revenge, honour, and redemption. Set in 11th-century Europe during the height of the Viking Age, it follows Thorfinn, a young warrior whose life is consumed by the desire to avenge his father’s murder at the hands of the cunning mercenary leader Askeladd.

“This is the GOAT, man. ‘A true warrior needs no sword.’ That phrase has stuck with me since I watched it. Peace can’t be found through violence — it only creates deeper roots of hatred. That’s what Thors stood for; he sacrificed his life for his crewmates and his son. Thorfinn, his son and the main character, spent years chasing after his father’s killer, ignoring his father’s words. He finally understood that war is bad and swore never to touch a sword again. It’s a rollercoaster of a show. Shout-out to Makoto Yukimura.” — Alfred, 21

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27. (2017)

Genre: Action, Fantasy

Season: 1

Episodes: 12

Juni Taisen: Zodiac War has a nihilistic storyline. It’s a war game in which twelve champions representing the twelve zodiac signs slug it out in a battle of strength, skill, wisdom, and cunning. Those twelve are usually very strong, and they each have different ideals reflected in their zodiac alignments. The winner gets one wish granted.

“Aside from the fight choreography, the quality of the animation and the storytelling approach (there was a bit of subterfuge, crazy plot twists and some bait and switch, so you can’t tell who the main character is. The language deployment and the expression of emotions in it is top level. It wasn’t the type of artificial emotive voicing you’d find. The anime was so good I had to read the manga to get the fuller story.” — Timilehin, 24.

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26. (2017)

Genre: Action 

Season: 4

Episodes: 165

In a world where nearly everyone wields magic, Asta is the rare exception — born without a single spark of magical ability. Determined to defy fate, he throws himself into relentless physical training, relying on sheer willpower and grit to pursue his dream of becoming the Wizard King. Flawed, loud, and often underestimated, Asta’s journey is one of perseverance against all odds.

“Watching him get humiliated and get back up with a smile on his face, or get beat down and get back up with tears in his eyes—it made me emotional all the time. I resonate with it so much.” — Sam, 26.

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25. (2018)

Genre: Romance
Seasons: 1
Episodes: 24

In a dystopian future where humanity hides in massive mobile fortresses to escape monstrous Klaxosaurs, children are bred to pilot giant mechs known as Franxx. These machines require a boy-girl pairing to function, but for Hiro — a former prodigy who has lost his purpose — everything changes when he meets Zero Two, a rebellious, horned pilot feared as the infamous “Partner Killer.”

“This was also lovely because of the plot. It makes you root for these kids and almost tear your hair out when you watch them make mistakes.” — Tayme, 22.

24. (2024)

Genre: Action

Season: 2

Episodes: 25

A high-octane tale of delinquents, street fights, and unshakable loyalty. Haruka Sakura transfers to a school where respect is earned only through strength. Though a fierce fighter, he gradually discovers the power of friendship and the importance of protecting those who stand by him.

“This is the most flashy, intense, and surprisingly heartfelt manga series that I’ve seen.” — Queen, 23*.

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23. (2020)

Genre: Comedy, Medical Drama

Season: 1

Episodes: 12

A lighthearted medical fantasy where Dr. Glenn Litbeit and his lamia assistant Saphentite treat a variety of monster girls — from centaurs and harpies to mermaids. Each case brings unusual challenges, heartfelt moments, and, more often than not, a patient or two falling for the charming doctor.

“It’s equal parts wholesome and mildly suggestive, but the worldbuilding of monster physiology is actually interesting.” — Naia, 22*.

22. (1997)

Genre: Action, Fantasy

Season: 1

Episodes: 25

A brutal dark fantasy following Guts, the Black Swordsman — a lone mercenary with a massive sword and a haunted past. His fate changes when he joins the Band of the Hawk, led by the charismatic Griffith. Their meteoric rise to power is legendary, but it all shatters during the Eclipse, an event that plunges everything into unimaginable horror.

“Berserk is brutal, bloody, and beautiful, with some of the deepest themes about fate, ambition, and survival you’ll find.” — Iana, 23.

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21. (2009)

Genre: Adventure

Season: 1

Episodes: 64

Widely regarded as one of the best-written anime of all time, it follows brothers Edward and Alphonse Elric after a failed alchemy ritual to resurrect their mother, leaving Ed missing an arm and a leg, and Al’s soul bound to a suit of armour. Their quest to restore their bodies leads them into a tangled web of government conspiracies, dangerous homunculi, and heart-wrenching personal stories.

“The balance of humour, action, and heartbreak is perfect. Also, the ending? It’s actually satisfying.” — Joshua 2, 24.

20. (2010)

Genre: Romance

Season: 1

Episodes: 26

A beloved rom-com classic, it follows Misaki Ayuzawa, the tough-as-nails student council president at a once all-boys school, who secretly works at a maid café to help her family. When the charming and popular Takumi Usui discovers her secret, he makes it his mission to tease her endlessly—while gradually revealing his genuine feelings.

“The main characters made it a refreshing story. Misaki is strong and stubborn, Usui is charming and annoyingly perfect, and their chemistry is chef’s kiss.” — Ayo, 27*.

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19. (2008)

Genre: Horror

Season: 2

Episodes: 20

At Cross Academy, students are divided into the Day Class and the mysterious Night Class—composed entirely of elegant vampires. Yuki Cross, a guardian of the school, works to maintain peace between humans and vampires. Caught in a love triangle between the noble Kaname and her childhood friend Zero—who despises vampires but is slowly becoming one—Yuki’s loyalties and heart are constantly tested.

“This show is dramatic, romantic, and full of dark twists.” — Henry, 24*.

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18. ‎ (2015)

Genre: Romance

Season: 2

Episodes: 24

If comfort anime were an official genre, this would be the poster child. Shirayuki, a skilled herbalist with striking red hair, draws the unwanted attention of a prince. To escape, she cuts her hair and flees, eventually meeting Zen, a kind-hearted prince from a neighbouring kingdom. What follows is a slow-burning romance filled with warmth, respect, and gentle moments.

“I love this show because there are no love triangles or pointless drama. Just wholesomeness, soft moments, and beautiful worldbuilding.” — Daisy, 22.

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17. ‎ (2017)

Genre: Romance

Season: 2

Episodes: 48

Magical, beautiful, and just a bit unsettling, this series follows Chise Hatori, a girl with a tragic past who is purchased at an auction by Elias Ainsworth—a tall, inhuman mage with an animal skull for a head. He declares she will be both his apprentice and his bride, drawing her into a world of fae, magic, and self-discovery.

“The show blends romance, folklore, and dark fantasy, with gorgeous visuals and emotional storytelling. It’s perfect for me.” — Lauretta, 21.

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16. (2006)

Genre: Horror 

Season: 1

Episodes: 37

A high school genius stumbles upon a mysterious notebook that grants him the power to kill anyone whose name he writes in it. As he uses it to create his vision of a perfect world, he enters a tense, high-stakes mind game with a brilliant detective determined to stop him.

“It’s my favourite dark anime series.” — Ebun, 22.

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15. ‎ (2010)

Genre: Drama

Season: 3

Episodes: 40

A lighthearted workplace comedy set in a family restaurant, where the staff are as quirky as the customers. From a pint-sized waitress with a scary streak, to a manager who hides away to snack, to a server who punches every man she meets—chaos is always on the menu.

“It’s silly, lighthearted, and perfect when you just want something to make you laugh.” — Princess, 23*.

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14. (2005)

Genre: Drama

Season: 2

Episodes: 46

In a tranquil, rural Japan-inspired world, Ginko, a wandering Mushi Master, investigates “mushi”—mysterious life forms invisible to most people. Neither good nor evil, mushi simply exist, yet their presence can cause eerie, beautiful, and sometimes tragic effects on the humans they cross paths with.

“I like how it’s about philosophy, and the fragile, often overlooked connections between humans and the natural world.” — Daniel, 27.

13. (2020)

Genre: Adventure

Season: 2

Episodes: 47

Yuji Itadori, a high schooler, accidentally enters the dangerous world of jujutsu sorcery after swallowing a cursed object—the decayed finger of Ryomen Sukuna, the feared “King of Curses.” Now sharing his body with this terrifying demon, Yuji trains under the laid-back yet deadly Gojo Satoru to exorcise curses, save lives, and collect Sukuna’s remaining fingers before the demon can fully return.

“If you’ve seen JJK and you understand it, you won’t ask me why it’s my favourite anime. The writing is some of the most intense I’ve ever seen. There’s this episode in Season 2 during the Shibuya arc when Sukuna took control of Itadori’s body—OMG, even I could feel the fear coming off my laptop screen. Gojo is my favourite character. I mean, who else?” — Favour, 23.

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12. (1995)

Genre: Action

Season: 1

Episodes: 26

An emotionally intense mecha series that redefined anime storytelling in the 1990s and still sparks debates today. It follows a teenage pilot forced to fight existential threats in a world on the brink, while grappling with questions of identity, purpose, and the crushing weight of responsibility.

“It’s a haunting and unsettling show. But deeply exhilarating.” — Obinna, 25.

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11. (2009)

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Season: 9

Episodes: 26

Set in the magical kingdom of Fiore, the story follows Natsu Dragneel, a fiery Dragon Slayer wizard with a literal flame for a temper, as he charges headfirst into danger. Alongside Lucy Heartfilia, an ambitious Celestial Spirit mage, Happy the flying blue cat, and their eccentric guild of powerful misfits, Natsu embarks on one thrilling — and often chaotic — mission after another.

“I love how it thrives on massive magic battles, emotional backstories and the unshakable power of friendship that somehow fuels even the deadliest attacks.” — Emerald, 25.

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10. (1998)

Genre: Western

Season: 1

Episodes: 26

A stylish, genre-blending space western following a ragtag crew of bounty hunters — Spike Spiegel, Jet Black, Faye Valentine, Ed, and Ein the genius corgi — as they drift through the galaxy chasing criminals, dodging debts, and confronting the ghosts of their pasts.

“This show is effortlessly cool.” — Abraham, 22.

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9. (2015)

Genre: Action

Season: 2

Episodes: 36

Saitama looks like an ordinary guy, but after training to the extreme, he’s become absurdly powerful — able to defeat any opponent with a single punch. What should be a dream life quickly turns dull as every fight ends instantly, leaving him stuck in an existential loop, searching for purpose beyond effortless victories.

“I loved the idea of how he got his power and lived his life. His nonchalance to defeat his enemies gives me joy.” — Iremhen, 25*.

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8. (2016)

Genre: Action

Season: 7

Episodes: 159

Izuku “Deku” Midoriya starts out powerless in a world where almost everyone has superpowers, or “quirks.” Through sheer grit, clever strategy, and tireless training, he inherits the power of the world’s greatest hero and begins his journey to becoming a symbol of hope. Determined yet deeply empathetic, Deku fights to protect others while staying true to his humanity.

“It shines because Deku’s journey shows what heroism truly means in a world that’s forgotten it. In one powerful scene, he tells a former hero-turned-villain that being a hero isn’t about glory, but compassion, responsibility, and acting for others without expecting reward. It mirrors the real world, where genuine heroism — from doctors to activists — is often thankless, misunderstood, yet deeply necessary.” — Solomon, 26.

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7. (2005)

Genre: Drama, Romance

Season: 1 

Episodes: 12

A stylish coming-of-age romance that fuses high fashion with the bittersweet realities of growing up. Yukari Hayasaka, a high school student stuck in a rut, is pulled into the vibrant world of eccentric fashion design students who run their own brand, Paradise Kiss. As she models for their final show, Yukari discovers love, independence, and the courage to chase a life that’s truly her own.

“Slice of Life is a feel-good genre. Just watching young adults move through life without a false sense of moral superiority. Ai Yazawa, the author of Paradise Kiss, has this cool technique where the characters break the fourth wall, which provides great comedic relief. I love it.” — Chinazam, 24.

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6. (1989)

Genre: Action, Adventure

Season: 9

Episodes: 291

One of the most influential anime ever, blending martial arts, sci-fi, and planet-shattering battles that shaped the shōnen genre worldwide. The story follows Goku—now an adult and father—as he pushes his limits to defend Earth (and sometimes the universe) from an endless stream of increasingly powerful foes, each more impossible than the last.

“I mean, what’s there not to like? We all grew up on this. Everybody wanted to be like Goku. In fact, if there’s a trick out there to be a Saiyan, I’ll do anything to get it.” — Joshua, 21.

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5. (2011)

Genre: Action

Season: 6

Episodes: 148

It follows Gon Freecss, a bright-eyed boy who learns that his absent father, Ging, is actually a legendary “Hunter,” an elite adventurer licensed to explore uncharted lands, hunt dangerous creatures, and chase mysterious treasures. Determined to find his father, Gon sets out to become a hunter himself.

“OG right here bro, this is one of the best written anime out there, from the start, you knew you’d love this. The hunters’ exams, Tonpa-san being a silly old man trying to ruin everyone’s dreams. Gon is making friends with Leorio, Kuparika, and Killua. Actually, Gon is nice to everyone. Hunter x Hunter is my favourite anime because it resonates with my inner child, kind and never stops.” — Seyi, 23.

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4. (2004)

Genre: Action, Adventure

Season: 16

Episodes: 366

A supernatural action classic that fuses sword-swinging combat with the mysteries of spirits and reapers. It follows Ichigo Kurosaki, a high schooler who unexpectedly gains the powers of a Soul Reaper after a fateful meeting with Rukia Kuchiki. Thrust into a hidden world, he must guide souls to the afterlife while battling monstrous Hollows that prey on the living.

“For one, it has better thought-out villains—the Wandenreich representing the German Reichs, Hueco Mundo for the Spanish. But honestly, that’s just me trying to sound intellectual. I mostly just like it because of the zanpakutos.” — Timi, 25.

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3. (2013)

Genre: Action

Season: 4

Episodes: 94

An epic that redefined modern anime with its blend of political intrigue, brutal action, and shocking twists. Humanity lives confined within massive walls to protect itself from giant, man-eating Titans. When the Colossal Titan shatters their defences, Eren Yeager, his adoptive sister Mikasa Ackerman, and best friend Armin Arlert rise to join the battle to reclaim their world.

“Attack on Titan captivates me with its dark fantasy worlds, complex characters, and heart-pumping action. This show has redefined the boundaries of anime storytelling. Attack on Titan’s post-apocalyptic world is a haunting commentary on humanity’s existence.” — Trojan, 21.

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2. (2002)

Genre: Adventure

Season: 5

Episodes: 220

Naruto is a classic coming-of-age ninja saga that captured the hearts of millions worldwide, including a devoted Nigerian fanbase. It’s a story of Naruto Uzumaki, a loud, determined and often misunderstood orphan who dreams of becoming Hokage, the leader of his village, to earn the respect he’s been denied all his life.

“I love Naruto because the show got a great ending. It has a special place in my heart.” — Fidelis, 30.

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1. (1999)

Genre: Comedy, Fantasy 

Seasons: 20

Episodes: 1,139

One Piece is the long-running adventure that has defined shōnen anime for over two decades. It follows the endlessly optimistic and rubber-powered pirate Monkey D. Luffy on his quest to find the legendary treasure known as the “One Piece” and claim the title of Pirate King.

“It’s the greatest piece of fiction ever made.” — Anthony, 27.

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