The Best Shounen Anime Of All Time

Among the many different types out there, shounen (or "shōnen") is one of the most popular genres of Japanese anime and manga. It is geared toward teenage boys and usually features a male protagonist who embarks on an adventure filled with challenges. The truth is, the world could always use more shounen animes because it is usually filled with several positive themes, such as believing in yourself and hard work paying off. The genre often crosses over with fantasy and action anime, even with some comedy elements here and there, and does not often focus too heavily on romance. Looking for the ultimate list of the best shounen anime of all time? Look no further! 

Whether you're a seasoned anime fan or just getting into it, this ranked collection of awesome action-packed, coming-of-age titles has plenty of examples sure to keep you entertained for hours on end. For those looking to dive into the world of ninjas, Naruto is often ranked among the greatest and most successful anime in general, a must-watch classic following the titular character as he trains to become the strongest ninja in his village. If you're a fan of epic battles and power-ups, Dragon Ball Z is another iconic series that should be on your watchlist. Join Goku and his friends as they defend Earth, fighting powerful foes and exploring the depths of the universe.

If you're in the mood for a modern twist on the shounen genre, My Hero Academia is a perfect choice. Set in a world where almost everyone has superpowers, follow the story of Izuku Midoriya as he dreams of becoming a hero despite being born without powers. And for those who really love a darker, more mature storyline, Attack on Titan is a gripping tale of survival in a world overrun by giant human-eating creatures. Some of these series are ongoing and still airing, while others are completed and ready to binge in full; similarly, some are fairly short (think Death Note) while others are long running (like One Piece) and may be more of a trek to complete. 

Below, you’ll find tons of great recommendations of popular shounen anime, with pictures and descriptions for easy reference. Vote up the best shonen anime to watch, and add your favorite shounen anime you've watched that is missing from the list. And don't forget to check out some of the other top series that have captured the hearts of anime fans around the world. Happy watching!