For 30 years, fans of the cartoon set in Springfield have loyally tuned in to their favorite show—The Simpsons. Now preparing for its landmark 30th season, it has already surpassed Gunsmoke with a record-breaking number of episodes produced. This animated sitcom is unparalleled in making us laugh at our foibles through sharp satire and self-deprecating parody that stands apart from other shows on TV.
But evaluating animation as a genre can be tricky because nostalgia makes comparing apples and oranges unavoidable. Some series ‘click’ right away while speaking directly to viewers’ imaginations. It feels impossible without also putting aside reason or logic. Animation has gone through many waves over time which spawned imitations.
However, there are still dozens of tones & styles out there. From half-hour comedies meant for mass appeal up to experimental fare unbounded by rules–making picking one single top choice an arduous task indeed.
But here goes nothing: we present you with what we believe are the top animated series of all time. It’s a collection honed from decades worth of options worthy enough (and diverse enough) to make any animation fan proud.
Top 10 Highest-Rated Animated TV Series of All Time, Ranked on IMDb
- Bleach: Thousand-Year Blood War (2022 – ) 9.0/10
- Batman: The Animated Series (1992 – 1995) 9.0/10
- Hunter x Hunter (2011 – 2014) 9.0/10
- Arcane (2021 – ) 9.0/10
- Death Note (2006 – 2007) 9.0/10
- Attack on Titan (2013 – 2023) 9.0/10
- Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood (2009 – 2010) 9.1/10
- Rick and Morty (2013 – ) 9.1/10
- Avatar: The Last Airbender (2005 – 2008) 9.3/10
- Bluey (2018 – ) 9.5/10
10 ‘Bleach: Thousand-Year Blood War’
IMDb: 9/10 18K votes | Popularity: #131 | Top 250: 892
The highly acclaimed “Bleach: Thousand-Year Blood War” is the latest installment in the popular Japanese anime property. The sequel to 2004’s beloved series, this arc follows protagonist Ichigo as he takes on a new threat and brings his powers back into action.
Fans have given it two thumbs up since its October 2022 release date. IMDb viewer ratings currently place it among their highest-rated animated titles. There are 13 episodes available now, with another season confirmed for July 2023–so what better time than now to jump right in?
9 ‘Batman: The Animated Series’
IMDb: 9/10 107K votes | Popularity: #23 | Top 250: 637
The makers of this iconic WB series had their sights set on delivering the best Batman stories to date, and they hit that goal right out of the park. With its menacing blend of sharp edges and mysterious imagery, animators brought Bob Kane’s Dark Knight character vividly alive in a world as real-feeling as any superhero without powers could bravely face. Additions like an extraordinary soundtrack paired with top-notch voice acting created each half-hour episode into grand arcs which still resonate today; whether you watched it firsthand when younger or just recently caught up via reruns.
“Batman: The Animated Series” inspired many similar works from “Superman” through to more recent shows such as “Justice League.” Still, no comparison of “Batman vs. Superman” to classics such as “Mask Of The Phantasm.” Content appropriate for all ages stands tall here, even if portrayed by mere drawings at times.
8 ‘Hunter x Hunter’
IMDb: 9/10 108K votes | Popularity: #37 | Top 250: 483
Gon Freecss is a young boy who has recently learned that his father, previously thought to be dead, is, in fact, alive. Determined to follow suit and become an elite “Hunter” himself – with the ability to do whatever they wish. He embarks on the challenging journey of taking part in rigorous tests.
This anime adaptation marks a complete reboot from its original Manga series counterpart. It was one of 2010’s most highly praised by critics and fans alike. It features alluring visuals and enthralling storytelling, making this show perfect for newcomers.
7 ‘Arcane’
IMDb: 9/10 222K votes | Popularity: #26 | Top 250: 337
Arcane follows two sisters, Vi and Jinx, as their city is thrust into a violent conflict. With the war quickly escalating on both sides of the battlefield, viewers are taken through multiple periods to witness firsthand each sister’s experiences from entirely different perspectives.
No matter what your prior knowledge may be with regards to “League of Legends” – Arcane’s source material. This show still manages to captivate audiences due its exemplary writing that follows even non-typical plot structures along with its appealing animation style accentuated by outstanding voice performances.
6 ‘Death Note’
IMDb: 9/10 338K votes | Popularity: #32 | Top 250: 503
Light Yagami, a high school student with a supernatural notebook at his disposal, embarks on an epic journey in the popular anime series “Death Note.” The book’s pages are imbued with the power to bring death upon anyone whose name is penned thereupon – and it soon sends Light down the dark path of corruption.
With Ryuk as his demonic companion and L trying desperately to catch up to him, this thrilling tale is loved by fans worldwide for its gripping premise and unpredictable plot twists. From conscripting cosplay ensembles worldwide to adapting other mediums such as live-action movies or video games, “Death Note” undoubtedly remains one of the most iconic franchises ever created.
5 ‘Attack on Titan’
IMDb: 9/10 403K votes | Popularity: #25 | Top 250: 30
The post-apocalyptic world of Attack on Titan holds many secrets and dangers. In this realm, giant humanoid creatures called Titans roam the land with a taste for human flesh. The only protection is provided by walls that contain several cities filled with people desperate to survive in such dire circumstances. The Survey Corps are brave soldiers dedicated to fighting these beasts at significant risk. They must learn how best to battle them while facing their fears if they hope to save humanity from extinction.
An anime classic since its debut over ten years ago, fans around the globe have grown attached not just because of its thrilling action sequences but also due deep themes it explores. Topping it off is an excellent cast featuring memorable characters whose stories will capture your heart one moment before emanating emotive sorrow as fate takes hold next time round.
Whether you’re already familiar or new here, Attack On Titan promises something special, so let yourself be taken away into another place altogether…it won’t disappoint.
4 ‘Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood’
IMDb: 9.1/10 176K votes | Popularity: #16 | Top 250: 580
Edward and Alphonse Elric are two brothers on a quest in search of the fabled Philosopher’s Stone. However, this is not your typical adventure; these budding alchemists have experienced tremendous loss when their attempt to bring back their deceased mother cost them several limbs each. Therefore they seek out this powerful stone to regain what was taken away from them — both physically and emotionally.
“Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood,” acclaimed by critics as one of the greatest animated shows ever made, encapsulates its viewers with its complex storytelling delving into themes such as humanity and brotherhood while introducing elements necessary for any exciting tale that is captivating action sequences. With characters so fantastically portrayed, you can’t help but feel connected – it truly does tug at all heartstrings.
3 ‘Rick and Morty’
IMDb: 9.1/10 545K votes | Popularity: #15 | Top 250: 178
Regarding cult hits, few shows can come close to the success of Rick and Morty. The wacky animated series follows mad scientist Rick Sanchez and his grandson Morty as they use a concoction of inventions made by Rick on their never-ending intergalactic adventures.
With its R-rated humor, a wide array of characters, and unpredictable plotlines that tackle everything from alternate dimensions filled with monsters to running away into someone’s stomach. This show is perfect animated entertainment for viewers looking for something out of the ordinary.
2 ‘Avatar: The Last Airbender’
IMDb: 9.3/10 327K votes | Popularity: #7 | Top 250: 306
The show was a mania among animation fans in the early 2000s. Set in an imaginary world taken over by the Fire Nation, Avatar: The Last Airbender ranks among the top animated series and best tv shows of all time. Aang, who possesses supernatural elemental powers, is awakened to restore balance and justice. Along with his gang of devoted followers, he embarks on a quest where they meet various vibrant characters teaching him new abilities while learning valuable life lessons along their adventure.
This beloved show has something for everyone – children are thrilled with its visuals, whilst adults appreciate its thought-provoking plot lines and meaningful character developments. Each span across episodes creating memorable relationships between heroes as well as enemies setting them far apart from when viewers first met them.
1 ‘Bluey’
IMDb: 9.5/10 14K votes | Popularity: #21 | Top 250: 295
Beloved by people of all ages, the hit children’s show “Bluey” takes viewers on an adventure with a six-year-old Blue Heeler puppy named Bluey. From her home city of Brisbane in Australia to playtime adventures around town and beyond, she learns how to find a balance between fun and responsibility through experience – often alongside helpful advice from family members.
The thoughtful storylines blend humor meant for young audiences while also tackling mature topics without alienating them. It’s no wonder why parents are just as keen as their kids to tune into each episode. It makes watching together so much more enjoyable.
Senior Editor, BuddyTV
