Best Anime Series on Crunchyroll: Top Must-Watch Titles for Every Fan
Whether you’re a curious newcomer or a seasoned anime lover, Crunchyroll is the go-to platform for streaming high-quality anime legally and in real time. With simulcasts straight from Japan, a user-friendly interface, and an ever-expanding catalog of both timeless classics and fresh hits, it has become a central hub for anime fans across the globe.
But with so many titles on offer, from emotional slice-of-life stories to heart-racing action and fantasy, it’s easy to get lost in the endless scroll. That’s where this guide comes in. We’ve handpicked the most talked-about anime series currently streaming on Crunchyroll, spanning genres, art styles, and tones. Each title listed is not only critically acclaimed but also widely loved by fans. So whether you’re looking for fast-paced shonen battles, thought-provoking thrillers, or offbeat comedies with heart, this curated list will help you get started with confidence.
Key Points
- Crunchyroll is home to an expansive catalog of anime, including exclusives and simulcasts.
- Genres range from action, fantasy, and romance to comedy, slice-of-life, and psychological drama.
- All recommended titles are currently available and highly rated by viewers and critics alike.
What is the best anime to start with on Crunchyroll?
If you’re just getting into anime, two of the most accessible and thrilling starting points are Attack on Titan and My Hero Academia. Both are packed with cinematic animation, rich world-building, and stories that pull you in immediately, even if you’ve never watched anime before. Plus, they offer dubbed versions in multiple languages, making them easy to follow regardless of your experience level.
Looking for something more emotional and introspective? Consider Your Lie in April or March Comes in Like a Lion. These character-driven dramas dive deep into themes of grief, healing, and identity, wrapped in beautiful animation and hauntingly good soundtracks. With Crunchyroll’s free plan, you can sample any of these and see which world captures your imagination first. And if you want an ad-free experience with simulcasts, the premium plan is a worthy upgrade.
Top Anime Series on Crunchyroll Right Now
Let’s dive into the standout anime series that are making waves on Crunchyroll. Each of these titles offers something unique, from stunning animation and unforgettable characters to top-tier ratings and buzz across the anime world.
1. Jujutsu Kaisen
With an IMDb score of 8.5, Jujutsu Kaisen has become a new-era shonen phenomenon. It follows Yuji Itadori, a kind-hearted teen who unwittingly swallows a cursed object and is thrust into a brutal world of supernatural sorcery. What makes this series stand out, beyond the incredible animation by MAPPA, is its deep character development, emotional stakes, and thrilling choreography. Every battle feels meaningful, and the show’s dark yet hopeful tone keeps you locked in from the first episode.
2. Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba
Praised for its jaw-dropping visuals and elegant storytelling, Demon Slayer boasts an impressive 8.6 on IMDb. The journey of Tanjiro Kamado, a gentle soul-turned-swordsman on a mission to avenge his family and cure his demon-turned sister, has resonated deeply with viewers worldwide. With arcs like the Entertainment District and Swordsmith Village pushing the boundaries of TV animation, this series continues to set a high bar for cinematic anime experiences.
3. One Piece
Still going strong after more than two decades, One Piece holds a remarkable 8.9 IMDb score and is considered a cornerstone of modern anime. With over 1,000 episodes available on Crunchyroll, the series follows Monkey D. Luffy and his misfit pirate crew on their journey toward the mythical One Piece treasure. But this isn’t just a story about adventure, it’s about freedom, loyalty, and the pursuit of dreams. And with the anime now in its final saga, the time to start is now.
4. Spy x Family
Blending espionage action with wholesome chaos, Spy x Family is one of the most charming anime to come out in recent years. It holds a solid 8.5 on IMDb and continues to delight fans with its quirky yet lovable characters. A secret agent must build a fake family to complete a top-secret mission, but unbeknownst to him, his fake wife is an assassin and his adopted daughter is a telepath. The humor is sharp, the emotional beats land beautifully, and each episode is a joy to watch.
5. Chainsaw Man
Edgy, unapologetically violent, and emotionally raw, Chainsaw Man (IMDb 8.4) turns the shonen formula on its head. It follows Denji, a desperate teen who fuses with his pet devil and becomes a chainsaw-wielding devil hunter. What sets this series apart isn’t just the gore, it’s the unfiltered look at loneliness, trauma, and the desire for something as simple as toast and affection. Stylish and subversive, this anime doesn’t just ask for your attention, it demands it.
6. Attack on Titan
Attack on Titan (IMDb 9.0) has become a global cultural touchpoint, and for good reason. Set in a dystopian world where humanity is hunted by massive humanoid creatures, this series begins as a survival thriller but evolves into a complex story about war, freedom, and morality. With jaw-dropping twists, evolving characters, and a haunting soundtrack, it keeps viewers on the edge of their seat through every season. If you’re looking for anime that feels like a prestige drama, this is it.
7. Vinland Saga
Raw, poetic, and deeply human, Vinland Saga (IMDb 8.8) brings the Viking era to life through the eyes of Thorfinn, a young warrior consumed by vengeance. Unlike your typical action series, this anime blends historical fiction with profound reflections on violence, purpose, and redemption. Every episode is rich in atmosphere, and the pacing rewards patient viewers who love thoughtful character arcs with emotional payoff. A must-watch for fans of Game of Thrones, evel depth.
8. Horimiya
Not all must-watch anime are about epic battles. Horimiya (IMDb 8.1) captures the beauty of teenage relationships with warmth and humor. It tells the story of two high schoolers, one a popular, responsible girl and the other a quiet, tattooed loner, who connect beyond the surface and start to uncover each other’s hidden sides. It’s charming, real, and never overly dramatic. Perfect for when you want to smile, feel seen, and fall in love with a show that just gets it.
9. Mob Psycho 100
Created by the mind behind One Punch Man, Mob Psycho 100 (IMDb 8.6) combines over-the-top psychic battles with surprisingly heartfelt storytelling. Mob, a shy teenager with immense psychic powers, just wants to live a normal life, but emotions are power, and his world keeps spiraling into chaos. What makes this series unique isn’t just the animation (which is stunning), but how it explores mental health, identity, and self-worth. It’s explosive in every sense, and full of heart.
10. That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime
Don’t let the quirky title fool you, That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime (IMDb 8.1) is one of the most entertaining and well-built isekai series on Crunchyroll. When an ordinary man is reborn as a slime in a fantasy world, he quickly evolves into a powerful being who reshapes the fate of entire nations. It’s fun, smart, and full of world-building, with a main character you can’t help but root for. Think of it as a lighthearted epic that balances humor and high fantasy in just the right way.
Is Crunchyroll better than Netflix for anime?
If you’re an anime fan looking for variety, simulcasts, and a deeper catalog, Crunchyroll is the better choice. While Netflix has been stepping up its game with exclusive titles like Blue Eye Samurai and Devilman Crybaby, its selection remains limited compared to Crunchyroll’s vast library. Crunchyroll features thousands of hours of content, including classic series, ongoing hits, and new releases straight from Japan.
Another major advantage is the speed of access. Crunchyroll offers simulcasts that air just hours after they premiere in Japan, which Netflix generally doesn’t. Plus, Crunchyroll’s user interface and curated collections, like “Shonen Jump Hits” or “Romantic Favorites”, make it easier to discover hidden gems based on your interests.
Can I watch Crunchyroll anime for free?
Yes, Crunchyroll offers a free tier that allows viewers to watch a wide selection of anime with ads. It’s a great entry point for those who are new to anime or want to explore the catalog before committing. Most classic and completed series are fully accessible on the free plan, though you’ll occasionally run into delays on newly released episodes.
For those who want an uninterrupted experience, the premium plan removes ads, unlocks simulcasts the moment they drop, and allows for HD and offline viewing. Considering the amount of content and quality Crunchyroll offers, even the most affordable premium tier feels like a solid value for fans who binge-watch regularly.
What genres are best represented on Crunchyroll?
Crunchyroll excels in its genre diversity. Action-packed shonen like Naruto, Bleach: Thousand-Year Blood War, and Black Clover dominate the trending charts, but that’s just the beginning. Fantasy lovers can explore vibrant, complex worlds in series like Re:Zero or The Rising of the Shield Hero. Sci-fi fans will appreciate titles like Psycho-Pass and Steins;Gate, which offer a more cerebral experience.
Romantic comedies and slice-of-life gems are also easy to find, from My Dress-Up Darling to Toradora. Even horror and psychological thriller fans are covered, with chilling options like Paranoia Agent and Another. Crunchyroll’s smart search and genre filtering tools make browsing seamless, so whether you’re in the mood for emotional depth or adrenaline-pumping action, you’ll find something that clicks.
Is Crunchyroll available in my country?
Crunchyroll is available in over 200 countries and territories, including the US, UK, Canada, Australia, and large parts of Europe, Latin America, and Asia. However, the specific titles available to you may vary depending on licensing restrictions. Some regions might not have access to certain shows, or may get them on delay.
If you’re facing regional limitations, using a reliable VPN is a common workaround among fans, allowing you to view the full global library. Crunchyroll is also actively expanding its licensing reach, so availability improves over time. Subtitles in multiple languages, including English, Spanish, German, Portuguese, and French, are typically provided for most popular series.
Conclusion
Finding the best anime to watch on Crunchyroll doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With standout titles like Attack on Titan, Jujutsu Kaisen, Spy x Family, and Chainsaw Man, the platform offers a rich tapestry of storytelling that appeals to newcomers and die-hard fans alike. Whether you want to lose yourself in a sprawling fantasy, laugh along with a romantic comedy, or feel the rush of a high-stakes battle, Crunchyroll delivers with quality and variety.
What makes Crunchyroll truly special is its dedication to the anime community. From fast simulcast releases to an inclusive range of genres and languages, it’s a streaming platform that doesn’t just offer content, it celebrates the culture. So if you’re ready to explore new worlds, fall in love with unforgettable characters, and join a passionate global fandom, Crunchyroll is where your anime journey begins, or levels up.
Featured image: Screenshot from IMDb.
