Mohsin Lag
Today, we’re talking about the best anime with good stories and plots. Either you are into romantic anime with great stories, action-packed ones with exciting plots, and more across various genres, these storylines are well-written and are sure to enthrall you with their masterful plotlines and interesting characters.
Plus, we’ve compiled a mix of classic and new series, including both underrated and popular ones, so you can enjoy the best anime series with great narratives.
So, please continue reading until the end of this list to discover the top anime with the most amazing stories and plots that will take you by surprise.
24. 91 days
kicking off our list of the best anime with good storylines with 91 Days, a Japanese show that tells a unique mafia story, similar to the famous Godfather movies. It follows the main character, Angelo Lagusa, who as a child witnessed a tragedy when his family was killed by the Vanetti mafia. Angelo, now using the name Avilio Bruno, seeks revenge after receiving a mysterious letter.
Returning to Lawless, he befriends Nero, the son of the Vanetti don, with the goal of taking down those responsible for his family’s death. The anime is set during the Prohibition era, showcasing Avilio’s dark journey for vengeance as he eliminates each person involved in the tragedy.
23. Gangsta
I watched Gangsta a while ago, and it’s an amazing action drama anime with a really interesting story. The characters are well-developed, the world is dynamic, and there are some awesome fight scenes. The story follows Nicholas Brown and Worick Arcangelo, known as the “Handymen,” in the city of Ergastalum. They’re mercenaries who take on tough jobs for powerful mob syndicates and the police.
After a job involving eliminating a local pimp, they add Alex Benedetto—a prostitute marked for elimination—to their team to protect her. The city, once a haven for super-human beings called “Twilights,” is facing a new threat that challenges its balance of power. The Handymen find themselves caught up in a changing and dangerous situation.
22. March Comes In Like A Lion
March Comes In Like A Lion is a surprising anime that cleverly uses the game of Shogi to explore delicate and complex situations. If you enjoy anime with good stories that make you think and reflect, this is an excellent choice.
Rei Kiriyama, having achieved professional status in middle school, is an elite in the world of shogi. The pressure from the shogi community and his adoptive family is immense, prompting him to seek independence by moving to Tokyo. Living on his own at 17, Rei struggles to take care of himself and faces challenges fitting in at school and the shogi hall due to his reclusive personality.
Soon after arriving in Tokyo, Rei meets the Kawamoto sisters—Akari, Hinata, and Momo—who live with their grandfather. Akari, the eldest, is determined to ease Rei’s loneliness and help him with his lifestyle. The Kawamoto sisters, dealing with past tragedies, provide Rei with a unique family connection he has been missing. Balancing his physical and mental well-being with his shogi career, Rei learns to navigate social interactions and understand his own complex emotions.
21. Bakuman
Bakuman is a great shonen anime with a fantastic story that has everything—dreams, inspiration, depth, entertainment, laughs, and tears. What sets its plot apart is that it’s a manga about manga and an anime about anime.
Moritaka Mashiro, as a child, dreamt of becoming a mangaka like his hero and uncle, Tarou Kawaguchi. However, tragedy struck, and he gave up on his dream, focusing on becoming a salaryman in middle school.
One day, Moritaka’s classmate, Akito Takagi, recognizes the detailed drawings in his notebook and suggests they become mangaka together. Convinced of Moritaka’s artistic talent, they form a team under the pen name Muto Ashirogi. Their goal is to create a popular manga series, with the added hope that it might involve Miho Azuki, the girl Moritaka likes, as a voice actor in the anime adaptation. Together, they embark on a journey to become the greatest mangaka in Japan.
20. Katanagatari
The next series you should definitely watch is “Katanagatari, and it’s exactly what the title suggests—an epic anime story about swords. Set in Edo-era Japan with a variety of sword-fighting styles, the protagonist, Shichika Yasuri, practices a unique technique called Kyotouryuu. Instead of a sword, he uses his own body as a weapon. Shichika, along with his sister Nanami, lives a quiet life in exile until Togame, an ambitious strategist, enters the scene.
Togame asks Shichika to help her collect twelve special swords known as the “Deviant Blades” for the shogunate. Interested more in Togame herself than politics, Shichika agrees, and their journey begins. Along the way, they face formidable wielders of these legendary weapons and other power-hungry foes who want to hinder Togame’s mission. To overcome their enemies, the duo must form an unbreakable team and navigate a path filled with uncertainty and danger.
19. The Promised Neverland
The Promised Neverland is a fantasy anime with an Unpredictable storyline, perfect for those who enjoy mysterious plots and survival themes. What sets it apart is that it’s not pretentious or highbrow, making it a delightful and approachable watch. If you’re ready to unravel a mystery that will keep you on your toes, this is the one for you!
The story unfolds at the Grace Field House, a place surrounded by a forest with a gated entrance. Orphans live happily together, cared for by their “Mama,” Isabella. While they take daily tests, they have the freedom to spend their time playing outside, with one rule—to stay close to the orphanage. However, the idyllic life takes a dark turn as the three oldest siblings suspect something sinister happening. Soon, they uncover the cruel fate awaiting the children at Grace Field, exposing the twisted nature of their beloved Mama.
18. Rainbow
Rainbow is an intense anime set in a jail, offering a heartfelt and emotional story similar to the American series Prison Break. It’s a serious tale right from the start, with the first episode carrying a disclaimer about explicit content. The series maintains a brutal and somber tone, using violent scenes to tell the story authentically.
The story is set in 1955 Japan at Shounan Special Reform School, where Mario Minakami and five other teenagers arrive, each facing serious criminal charges. Sharing the same cell, they encounter Rokurouta Sakuragi, an older inmate and former boxer. A strong bond forms, and under Rokurouta’s guidance, the delinquents find a glimmer of hope, aiming to reunite outside after serving their sentences.
Their journey is marred by the sadistic guard Ishihara, who holds a grudge against Rokurouta, and the perverse doctor Gisuke Sasaki, making their time in the prison a living hell. Despite the brutal conditions, the seven inmates support each other, fighting to survive until their sentences end. However, the question remains: What kind of lives await them once they step outside the prison gates?
17. Psycho-Pass
Psycho-Pass is a police anime worth watching when you’re in a calm and clear state of mind. Once you comprehend the psychological storyline, it’s likely to keep you hooked until the end..
Set in the 22nd century, Japan employs the Sibyl System, an objective method to assess the threat level of each citizen by analyzing their mental state, known as their Psycho-Pass, for signs of criminal intent. Inspectors maintain law and order by using force, sometimes lethal, against those with even the slightest hint of ill-will. Alongside them are Enforcers, seasoned Inspectors turned latent criminals, granted freedom in exchange for carrying out the Inspectors’ less savory tasks.
Enter Akane Tsunemori, a young woman eager to uphold justice. However, as she collaborates with the experienced Enforcer Shinya Kougami, she discovers that the judgments of the Sibyl System are not as flawless as her fellow Inspectors believe. Everything she thought she knew gets overturned, and Akane grapples with the question of what justice truly means, especially when enforced by a system that may already be corrupt.
16. Haikyuu
Haikyuu!! is one of the best sports anime that not only offers intense volleyball matches but also shines with its engaging characters and exciting storytelling. Shouyou Hinata, inspired by the “Little Giant’s” incredible skills on the volleyball court, is determined to prove that his shorter stature won’t hinder his dreams.
Even as a setback in middle school, Hinata joins Karasuno High School, aiming to follow in the footsteps of the Little Giant. His conviction faces a challenge when he discovers that Tobio Kageyama, the prodigious player who defeated Hinata’s middle school team, is now his teammate.
To make his mark in the volleyball world, often dominated by tall and strong players, Hinata must reconcile with Kageyama. Learning the essence of teamwork becomes crucial for Hinata to compete at the highest level.
15. Eden of The East
Eden Of The East has a really intriguing romantic storyline, mysterious, and suspenseful in each episode that will make you eager for more. The plot revolves around “Careless Monday,” a terrorist act in Japan on November 22, 2010, which, fortunately, didn’t cause harm. Society quickly moves on, and during her graduation trip to America three months later, college student Saki Morimi meets Akira Takizawa, a cheerful but peculiar guy with amnesia who thinks he’s a terrorist. He has a mysterious phone loaded with 8.2 billion yen.
Regardless of Takizawa’s oddities, Saki befriends him, unknowingly getting involved in a thrilling death game involving money, cell phones, and saving the world. The anime follows Saki’s quest to unravel the mysteries surrounding Takizawa and his connection to the past event, all while facing challenges from others with similar phones and returning memories.
14. Baccano!
Baccano is a classic anime that perfectly mingles together multiple storylines, spanning, alchemy, survival, and immortality. and featuring a large ensemble cast, creating a tapestry of chaos and intrigue. In early 1930s Chicago, the transcontinental train, Flying Pussyfoot, begins a legendary journey leaving a trail of blood across the country.
Meanwhile, in New York, scientist Szilard and his reluctant aide Ennis search for missing bottles of an immortality elixir, and a mafia war escalates. On the Advena Avis in 1711, alchemists are about to discover the price of immortality.
13. Vinland Saga
Vinland Saga is an epic Viking story that goes beyond survival, offering a 24-episode adventure like no other. Young Thorfinn, raised in a frozen Icelandic village, dreams of Vinland, a legendary place of warmth and peace. However, his reality is a life of mercenary warfare amid the conflict between England and the Danes.
In spite of his father’s words about having no enemies, Thorfinn discovers the harsh truth as war becomes his home. In the chaos, he seeks revenge on Askeladd, the man who killed his father, navigating a world where the only paradise for Vikings is found in the era of war and death.
12. Parasyte
Next up we have Parasyte The Maxim. Believe me when I say that after watching the first episode of Parasyte, you’ll be hooked by the the plot, likely you will binge-watch it until the end. The story highlights that suddenly, parasitic aliens invade Earth, taking control of humans by burrowing into their brains.
Sixteen-year-old Shinichi Izumi becomes a host, but the parasite, Migi, ends up in his right hand. Unable to survive independently, they form an uneasy alliance, defending themselves against other parasites seeking to eliminate this new threat to their species.
11. Mushishi
Now here is Mushishi, a unique slice of life anime that mixes drama and a thoughtful story alongside great audio and visuals. The story revolves around ‘Mushi,’ basic life forms without goals or purposes. They come in various forms, mimicking elements from the natural world.
Most humans are unaware of their existence, and detailed information about Mushi is scarce. Ginko, a ‘Mushishi,’ constantly ponders the purpose and existence of Mushi, chasing rumors and researching them to unravel the mysteries of life itself.
10. Made In Abyss
Looking for a unique anime plot? Made in Abyss is the right choice! It’s a mix of good, light-hearted adventure and thrilling sci-fi moments. The story revolves around Riko, the daughter of the missing White Whistle Lyza the Annihilator. Riko dreams of exploring the Abyss, a mysterious chasm filled with relics and creatures.
Although being a novice Red Whistle, she befriends a robot named Reg, and together, they embark on a journey to recover his lost memories and explore the Abyss’s depths. Little do they know about the harsh reality awaiting them in the abyss. This anime offers a really good story, wonderful chemistry between characters, and well-animated fight scenes.
9. Steins Gate
One of the best anime with a great story is Steins Gate, a sci-fi show that tells a fascinating plot about time travel. The main character, Rintarou Okabe, is a quirky scientist with a passion for exploration. Alongside his friend Mayuri Shiina and roommate Itaru Hashida, they run the Future Gadget Laboratory, aiming to create mind-boggling technological innovations. Despite their attempts, their most notable creation is a microwave that turns bananas into green goo.
Things take a turn when Rintarou attends a conference on time travel and discovers mysterious abilities of the “Phone Microwave.” It seems to send text messages into the past. As he delves deeper into experimenting with the time machine, he attracts the attention of the secretive organization SERN.
This novel discovery puts Rintarou and his friends in constant danger, leading to a battle to save loved ones and protect the timeline. Along the way, Rintarou faces challenges not only externally but also internally as his sanity begins to deteriorate. Steins Gate is a show praised for its excellence and is truly deserving of the acclaim it receives.
8. Code Geass
Code Geass is considered as one of the best mecha anime ever, thanks to its good story that features many sensible plot twists, providing a deep and well-built character development from the start.
The story is set in 2010 when the Holy Empire of Britannia conquers Japan and renames it Area 11. Facing oppression, Japan fights back for independence. Lelouch Lamperouge, a Britannian student, gets caught in the conflict between Britannian and rebel forces. His life takes a turn when a mysterious girl named C.C. grants him Geass, the “Power of Kings.” Realizing its potential, Lelouch becomes Zero, leading a relentless rebellion against Britannia for revenge.
7. Fullmetal Alchemist Brotherhood
FullMetal Alchemist Brotherhood is among the most iconic anime with a good plot in every way. Each episode leaves you wanting more, a testament to how great the story and characters are. The anime offers moments that make you smile, laugh, feel sad, and simply amazed.
The story follows Edward Elric, a young and brilliant alchemist, who has suffered significant losses in his twelve-year life. In an attempt to bring back their deceased mother, Edward and his brother Alphonse perform the forbidden act of human transmutation. The experiment goes wrong, and Edward loses his brother, as well as two of his limbs. Using his alchemy skills, Edward binds Alphonse’s soul to a large suit of armor.
Rescued by their neighbor Pinako Rockbell and her granddaughter Winry, the brothers find themselves in a catastrophic new reality. Ignoring the alchemical principle against human transmutation, they attempted to resurrect their mother, resulting in Alphonse’s body disintegrating, and Edward losing a leg and sacrificing an arm to keep Alphonse’s soul bound to a suit of armor.
Winry, a bio-mechanical engineering prodigy, creates prosthetic limbs for Edward using “automail,” a versatile metal. After training, the Elric brothers embark on a quest to restore their bodies by finding the Philosopher’s Stone—a powerful gem that defies the laws of Equivalent Exchange.
As Edward gains fame as an infamous alchemist, known as “Fullmetal,” the brothers get entangled in a growing conspiracy that threatens the fate of the world.
6. Akame Ga Kill
Well, everyone might say that the animes mentioned above are better than Akame ga Kill, but when it comes to my favorite anime with a good story, I can’t miss this one. It takes us on an epic experience filled with bloodshed and explosions.
Night Raid is a secret group that carries out assassinations for the Revolutionary Army, aiming to overthrow Prime Minister Honest. His greed for power and exploitation of the inexperienced child emperor have left the nation in poverty and ruin. While Night Raid members are skilled killers, they understand the consequences of taking lives and expect retribution as they eliminate those who oppose the revolution.
Tatsumi, a naïve boy from a remote village, joins this group on a quest to help his impoverished hometown. He is drawn to Night Raid’s ideals and determination. “Akame ga Kill!” follows Tatsumi as he battles the Empire, confronting powerful weapons, enemy assassins, moral challenges, and discovering what it truly means to be an assassin with a cause.
5. Cowboy Bebop
The story is so good in Cowboy Bebop, although it is a bit scattered, with only a few episodes delving deep into the characters and their backgrounds. Despite that, it’s considered a masterpiece. Crime is still a problem in 2071 as humanity expands across the galaxy, creating settlements on other planets. These new societies face issues like murder, drug use, and theft, leading to the rise of tough bounty hunters.
Spike Spiegel and Jet Black make a living by chasing criminals through space. Despite Spike’s laid-back demeanor, he carries the weight of a violent past. Jet, on the other hand, deals with his own troubled memories while looking after Spike and their ship, the Bebop. The team is later joined by the con artist Faye Valentine, the eccentric Edward Wong Hau Pepelu Tivrusky IV, and Ein, a bioengineered Welsh Corgi.
As they form connections and pursue a variety of criminals, the Bebop crew’s lives are disrupted by a threat from Spike’s past. With a rival’s sinister plan unfolding, Spike must decide between a life with his newfound family or seeking revenge for old wounds.
4. Gurren Lagann
Gurren Lagann is considered one of the greatest anime with a compelling story about sacrifice, struggle, war, and freedom. Simon and Kamina grew up in an underground village, isolated from the surface world. Kamina is an adventurous risk-taker determined to make a name for himself, while Simon is a shy boy with no clear goals. One day, while digging, Simon discovers a mysterious object that turns out to be the key to an ancient war artifact, which they name Lagann. With their new weapon, Simon and Kamina, along with the fiery redhead Yoko Littner and her massive gun, fend off a surprise attack from the surface.
After the battle, the sky becomes visible, inspiring Simon, Kamina, and Yoko to embark on a journey to explore the surface wastelands. They join the fight against the “Beastmen,” humanoid creatures terrorizing humanity with powerful robots called “Gunmen.” Despite facing challenges, the trio courageously battles these new enemies alongside fellow survivors, aiming to reclaim the surface and uncover a galaxy-sized mystery.
3. Monster
Monster is a famous mature anime that everyone talks about and considers legendary. It’s possibly one of the best stories ever told in anime. Dr. Kenzou Tenma, a top neurosurgeon engaged to the hospital director’s daughter, is on the fast track to success. However, his life takes a drastic turn one night. He receives a call to switch patients and perform life-saving surgery on a famous performer instead. This decision leads to the death of a poor immigrant worker, causing Dr. Tenma to question his actions.
In a similar situation later on, Dr. Tenma chooses to save a young boy named Johan Liebert instead of the town’s mayor. This choice has serious consequences, including the loss of his social standing. Despite this, he becomes the hospital director after the mysterious deaths of the previous director and two doctors. Nine years later, Dr. Tenma saves the life of a criminal, and his past catches up with him. He must now go on a quest to make amends for the havoc caused by the person he once saved.
2. Death Note
Death Note isn’t just a good anime with a solid story—it’s a great masterpiece that keeps you on the edge with unexpected twists and turns. In a world filled with crimes and violence, Light Yagami, a clever 17-year-old student, comes across a Death Note, a tool that allows him to cause someone’s death by writing their name in it. Tempted by its power, Light, now known as Kira, begins a mission to rid the world of criminals.
As Light follows his dark sense of justice, a brilliant detective named L is hot on his trail. The two engage in an intense battle of wits, turning the pursuit of Kira into a gripping showdown that will only end with one of them meeting their demise.
1. Attack On Titan
Attack on Titan stands out as one of the most thrilling and greatest anime with a good story and top notch animation, especially evident in its first season. The plot is both gripping and easy to follow, keeping you hooked with a mystery that’s cleverly hidden in plain sight. It’s not just exciting; it’s also dark, intense, and filled with gruesome action.
The story is set in a world where humanity hides behind enormous walls to escape monstrous creatures called Titans. These Titans don’t eat humans out of hunger but seemingly for pleasure. After a colossal Titan breaches the supposedly impenetrable outer wall, Eren Yeager, along with his adopted sister Mikasa Ackerman and friend Armin Arlert, joins the Survey Corps to fight against these man-eating monsters. The trio faces personal losses and races against time to find a way to defeat the Titans before humanity’s last defenses crumble.
