Anime has become a global phenomenon, captivating audiences from Tokyo to New York, Mumbai to São Paulo. With streaming platforms like Crunchyroll, Netflix, and Disney+ making anime more accessible than ever, certain series have risen to universal acclaim.
Here, we explore the most-watched and most-loved anime worldwide, based on viewership, streaming numbers, merchandise sales, and cultural impact.
1. Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba
Genre: Action, Supernatural
Studio: Ufotable
Where to Watch: Crunchyroll, Netflix, Hulu
Why It’s #1?
- Highest-grossing anime movie ever (Mugen Train earned $500M+).
- Stunning animation (Ufotable’s legendary fight scenes).
- Global appeal – Huge in Japan, US, India, Europe, and Latin America.
Iconic Moment:
- Tanjiro vs. Rui (Season 1) – One of the best-animated fights in history.
2. Attack on Titan (Shingeki no Kyojin)
Genre: Dark Fantasy, Action
Studio: MAPPA (Final Seasons)
Where to Watch: Crunchyroll, Netflix
Why It’s Legendary?
- Complex storytelling (war, politics, freedom).
- One of the most-discussed anime ever (Reddit, Twitter, YouTube).
- Global fanbase – Massive in the US, Europe, and Southeast Asia.
Iconic Moment:
- “The Rumbling” (Final Season) – A world-ending event that shocked fans.
3. One Piece
Genre: Adventure, Action
Studio: Toei Animation
Where to Watch: Crunchyroll, Netflix
Why It’s Timeless?
- Longest-running anime (1100+ episodes and counting).
- Huge in Latin America, India, and France (dubbed in 30+ languages).
- Netflix’s live-action adaptation boosted popularity.
Iconic Moment:
- Luffy’s Gear 5 reveal – Broke the internet in 2023.
4. Jujutsu Kaisen
Genre: Dark Fantasy, Action
Studio: MAPPA
Where to Watch: Crunchyroll, Netflix
Why It’s a Global Hit?
- Trending on TikTok & Twitter (Gojo, Sukuna memes).
- Best fight choreography in anime (Season 2’s Shibuya Incident).
- Huge in India, Brazil, and the Philippines.
Iconic Moment:
- Gojo vs. Sukuna – The most hyped anime battle of 2023.
5. My Hero Academia
Genre: Superhero, Shonen
Studio: Bones
Where to Watch: Crunchyroll, Netflix
Why It’s Beloved?
- Western-friendly (Marvel/DC-style superheroes).
- Cosplay & merchandise dominance (Deku, Bakugo, Todoroki).
- Popular in the US, Mexico, and India.
Iconic Moment:
- “United States of Smash” – All Might’s final battle.
6. Spy x Family
Genre: Comedy, Action
Studio: Wit Studio / CloverWorks
Where to Watch: Crunchyroll, Netflix
Why It’s a Cross-Cultural Hit?
- Wholesome yet action-packed (appeals to all ages).
- Anya Forger memes went viral globally.
- Huge in Korea, US, and Europe.
Iconic Moment:
- Anya’s “Waku Waku” face – Internet’s favorite reaction meme.
7. Death Note
Genre: Psychological Thriller
Studio: Madhouse
Where to Watch: Netflix, Hulu
Why It’s a Classic?
- Most recommended “starter anime” worldwide.
- Global cult following (even non-anime fans know it).
- Popular in India, Middle East, and Western countries.
Iconic Moment:
- Light vs. L mind games – Legendary cat-and-mouse chase.
8. Naruto / Naruto Shippuden
Genre: Action, Adventure
Studio: Pierrot
Where to Watch: Crunchyroll, Netflix
Why It’s Still Relevant?
- Defined 2000s anime culture (iconic openings, fights).
- Massive in Latin America, India, and Africa.
- Boruto keeps the franchise alive.
Iconic Moment:
- Naruto vs. Pain – One of anime’s greatest battles.
9. Dragon Ball Super
Genre: Action, Martial Arts
Studio: Toei Animation
Where to Watch: Crunchyroll, Funimation
Why It’s Unbeatable?
- Pioneered global anime fandom (since the 90s).
- Goku is the most recognizable anime character.
- Huge in US, Latin America, and Arab countries.
Iconic Moment:
- Ultra Instinct Goku – Broke YouTube views records.
10. Chainsaw Man
Genre: Action, Horror, Dark Comedy
Studio: MAPPA
Where to Watch: Crunchyroll, Hulu
Why It’s a New Gen Phenomenon?
- Trending #1 on Twitter every episode.
- Denji’s chaotic energy – Gen Z’s favorite protagonist.
- Huge in the US, Brazil, and Southeast Asia.
Iconic Moment:
- Denji vs. Katana Man – Brutal, over-the-top action.
Honorable Mentions:
- Tokyo Revengers (Huge in Japan & Latin America)
- Hunter x Hunter (Global cult classic)
- Solo Leveling (2024’s most anticipated anime)
