12 Long-Running Anime Worth the Commitment
If you are a fan of anime, you know that some shows are worth more than just a few episodes. There are series that span years, with complex characters and evolving storylines. These long-running anime offer a deep dive into their worlds, giving you more to enjoy with each passing season. Whether you are in it for the action, drama, or the rich character development, these shows provide a rewarding experience.
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One Piece
One Piece is one of the longest-running anime series, and for good reason. It follows the adventures of Monkey D. Luffy and his crew of pirates as they search for the legendary treasure known as the One Piece. With over a thousand episodes, this series blends action, humor, and deep emotional moments that keep fans engaged. The world-building and character growth are some of the strongest aspects of the show, making it an unforgettable journey.
The show’s success is rooted in its ability to continually introduce new characters, settings, and themes, ensuring that the story never feels stagnant. Luffy’s goal to become the Pirate King resonates with viewers, while the diverse group of characters adds layers of depth to the narrative. Whether you’re watching for the intense battles or the heartwarming moments, One Piece offers something for everyone. It’s an anime that rewards those who stick with it, offering a rich world that keeps expanding with every new arc.
Naruto
Naruto tells the story of Naruto Uzumaki, a young ninja with dreams of becoming the Hokage, the leader of his village. The series explores themes of perseverance, friendship, and overcoming personal struggles, making it easy for viewers to connect with the characters. Over the course of its many episodes, Naruto grows from a mischievous outcast to a respected hero, and his journey is one of the most compelling in anime history. The show is known for its deep storytelling, intricate world-building, and impressive fight scenes.
Naruto’s world is filled with diverse characters, each with unique backstories and motivations. This allows for a wide variety of character arcs that play out over hundreds of episodes, keeping the show fresh and engaging. Whether you are drawn to the emotional moments or the high-stakes action, Naruto’s long run offers enough content to keep you hooked for a long time. With its sequel series, Boruto, continuing the legacy, Naruto remains a significant part of the anime landscape.
Bleach
Bleach is a story about Ichigo Kurosaki, a teenager who gains the powers of a Soul Reaper, tasked with protecting the living from evil spirits. The series dives deep into the concept of the afterlife, blending spiritual themes with intense battles. Over the years, Bleach has built a loyal fanbase thanks to its unique world and compelling characters. The show’s pacing and action scenes keep it exciting, while the emotional growth of its characters adds depth to the overall narrative.
With over 350 episodes, Bleach delivers a diverse range of arcs, each introducing new characters and challenges for Ichigo. The show’s strong focus on friendships and the personal growth of its characters makes it more than just a battle series. It’s a long, rewarding commitment for any fan of shonen anime. Bleach’s blend of action, comedy, and heartfelt moments ensures that it remains a staple in the genre.
Dragon Ball Z
Dragon Ball Z is a legendary anime series that needs little introduction. It follows the adventures of Goku as he defends Earth against powerful foes, with some of the most iconic battle scenes in anime history. The series spans multiple story arcs, each with escalating stakes, making it a thrilling ride from start to finish. Dragon Ball Z’s influence on pop culture is undeniable, and its vast roster of memorable characters has kept fans coming back for decades.
What makes Dragon Ball Z so special is its ability to blend powerful action with lighthearted moments. While Goku’s journey to become stronger is central to the story, the anime also emphasizes themes of family, perseverance, and self-improvement. With its epic battles, unforgettable villains, and character growth, Dragon Ball Z is a classic that continues to captivate audiences. Its massive impact on the anime world solidifies its place as a must-watch for any fan.
Fairy Tail
Fairy Tail is an anime about a guild of wizards who take on various quests while developing their friendships and personal growth. The series is filled with high-energy battles, magic, and heartwarming moments, making it a favorite among shonen anime fans. The main character, Natsu Dragneel, embarks on adventures with his friends, facing powerful enemies and building bonds along the way. Fairy Tail’s emotional depth and action-packed storylines keep it exciting from start to finish.
With over 300 episodes, the series explores themes of camaraderie, loyalty, and the importance of teamwork. The show is filled with lovable characters, each with unique abilities and backstories, making it easy for viewers to connect. Fairy Tail’s world of magic and adventure is expansive, offering endless possibilities for new arcs and character developments. For anyone who enjoys epic battles and heartfelt friendships, this anime is a rewarding commitment.
Hunter x Hunter
Hunter x Hunter follows Gon Freecss, a young boy who aspires to become a Hunter, an elite member of society who specializes in finding rare items, exploring uncharted territories, and more. The show’s story is filled with adventure, strategy, and intense battles that push the characters to their limits. With its well-written plot and complex characters, Hunter x Hunter keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. The anime is known for its deep storytelling and unique power system, which offers a fresh take on the shonen genre.
The series’ world-building and character development are some of its strongest points. Each arc introduces new challenges and characters, creating a sense of constant growth and change. Although Hunter x Hunter has experienced long hiatuses, its ability to capture the audience’s attention makes it a show worth waiting for. For anyone looking for a deep and thought-provoking anime, Hunter x Hunter delivers a memorable experience.
Yu Yu Hakusho
Yu Yu Hakusho follows Yusuke Urameshi, a teenage delinquent who becomes a Spirit Detective after his death. The show combines supernatural elements with action-packed battles and deep character development. Yusuke’s journey from a rebellious teen to a respected hero resonates with fans, and the series’ unique blend of humor, heart, and action keeps it engaging. With 112 episodes, it’s a manageable yet rewarding commitment for those looking for a classic anime.
Yu Yu Hakusho stands out for its well-developed characters and its exploration of themes like redemption and friendship. The series features intense battles, but also takes time to explore the emotional growth of its characters. The combination of supernatural intrigue and heartfelt moments makes it a fan favorite. Its lasting influence on anime fans ensures that it remains a must-watch.
Attack on Titan
Attack on Titan is a dark fantasy anime set in a world where humanity is on the brink of extinction due to giant humanoid creatures known as Titans. The story follows Eren Yeager and his friends as they join the military to protect humanity from the Titans. The show is known for its intense action, emotional depth, and unpredictable plot twists. With over 70 episodes, Attack on Titan has kept viewers on the edge of their seats with each new season.
The series explores themes of survival, sacrifice, and the consequences of war, making it a thought-provoking anime. Its powerful world-building and complex characters create a narrative that resonates deeply with viewers. As the story progresses, the stakes become even higher, and the twists become more impactful. Attack on Titan’s gripping story and stunning animation make it a series worth watching through to the end.
Pokémon
Pokémon has been a beloved anime for over two decades, following the adventures of Ash Ketchum and his quest to become a Pokémon Master. The show’s episodes are filled with fun battles, colorful creatures, and heartwarming moments. Ash, along with his loyal Pikachu, travels from region to region, making new friends and catching Pokémon along the way. Despite its long runtime, Pokémon keeps fans entertained with fresh adventures and exciting new Pokémon.
The show’s longevity is a testament to its appeal across multiple generations. Pokémon’s vibrant world and memorable characters continue to captivate both new and returning fans. Its simple yet engaging plot, combined with evolving characters, makes it easy to watch for anyone of any age. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer, Pokémon offers something for everyone.
JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure
JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure is a long-running series known for its outlandish storylines, memorable characters, and over-the-top battles. The anime follows the Joestar family across multiple generations, with each part introducing a new protagonist, often with unique supernatural abilities known as “Stands.” The series is widely praised for its creativity and distinct art style, which blends traditional shonen elements with surreal, often eccentric moments. With over 150 episodes, it remains a fan favorite for its wild plots and unforgettable characters.
What makes JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure so unique is its bold approach to storytelling. The show thrives on unexpected twists, emotional moments, and stunning fight choreography. Each arc introduces a fresh set of challenges, keeping viewers engaged while maintaining a connection to the overarching family legacy. For fans who enjoy an anime that defies convention, JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure is an unforgettable experience.
Black Clover
Black Clover follows Asta, a boy born without magic in a world where magic is everything. Despite this, Asta dreams of becoming the Wizard King and is determined to overcome his lack of magical ability. The anime is known for its action-packed battles, powerful magic, and strong-willed protagonist. With over 170 episodes, Black Clover offers a fast-paced narrative filled with exciting fight scenes and deep emotional moments.
The series emphasizes themes of perseverance, friendship, and the belief that anyone can achieve greatness, regardless of their starting point. Asta’s growth as a character is central to the story, and his determination to protect his friends and prove himself is inspiring. Black Clover keeps things fresh with its ever-expanding cast and new magical powers that appear with each arc. For those who enjoy high-energy battles and character-driven plots, this anime delivers on every level.
My Hero Academia
My Hero Academia is set in a world where almost everyone has superpowers, known as “Quirks.” The series follows Izuku Midoriya, a Quirkless boy who dreams of becoming a hero, as he attends U.A. High School, where young heroes are trained. With over 100 episodes, My Hero Academia explores themes of heroism, self-identity, and the power of friendship. The series has been praised for its compelling characters, world-building, and exciting battles.
What sets My Hero Academia apart is its focus on the human side of being a hero. The characters face both personal and external challenges as they navigate the complex world of heroes and villains. Each episode introduces new powers, new challenges, and moral dilemmas, making the series an exciting watch. My Hero Academia has become one of the most popular modern anime series, and it continues to evolve with each season.
This article originally appeared on Avocadu.