10 Best Shonen Anime of the Last 5 Years, Ranked
Shonen anime, known for its action-packed sequences, compelling storylines, and memorable characters, has been a staple in the anime world. Over the past five years, numerous shonen series have captivated audiences worldwide. Here’s a ranking of the ten best shonen anime from the last five years.
1. Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba
Overview: “Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba” follows Tanjiro Kamado, a young boy who becomes a demon slayer after his family is slaughtered by demons, and his sister Nezuko is turned into one.
Why It Stands Out: With its stunning animation by Ufotable, emotional depth, and gripping storyline, “Demon Slayer” has set new standards for shonen anime. The Mugen Train arc, in particular, received critical acclaim and broke box office records.
2. My Hero Academia
Overview: “My Hero Academia” is set in a world where almost everyone has superpowers, known as “Quirks.” It follows Izuku Midoriya, a Quirkless boy who dreams of becoming the greatest hero.
Why It Stands Out: The series excels in character development and world-building. Its exploration of heroism, combined with epic battles and emotional moments, has made it a standout shonen anime of recent years.
3. Jujutsu Kaisen
Overview: “Jujutsu Kaisen” revolves around Yuji Itadori, a high school student who becomes involved in the world of curses and sorcerers after swallowing a powerful cursed object.
Why It Stands Out: The series is praised for its dynamic fight scenes, dark themes, and well-developed characters. MAPPA’s exceptional animation and the intriguing story have earned it a massive following.
4. Attack on Titan: The Final Season
Overview: “Attack on Titan: The Final Season” brings the epic story of humanity’s fight against the titans to a thrilling conclusion. The series delves into themes of freedom, revenge, and the human condition.
Why It Stands Out: The final season has been lauded for its intense narrative, complex characters, and moral ambiguity. The animation by MAPPA and the unraveling of long-held mysteries have kept fans on the edge of their seats.
5. The Promised Neverland
Overview: “The Promised Neverland” follows a group of children who discover the dark truth about their orphanage and plan an escape to save themselves from a grim fate.
Why It Stands Out: Its blend of psychological horror, suspense, and clever plot twists set it apart from typical shonen series. The first season, in particular, is celebrated for its gripping story and emotional depth.
6. Black Clover
Overview: “Black Clover” centers on Asta, a boy born without magic in a world where magic is everything. He aims to become the Wizard King, overcoming numerous obstacles with sheer determination and strength.
Why It Stands Out: Known for its fast-paced action and extensive world-building, “Black Clover” has garnered a loyal fanbase. Its consistent character development and thrilling battles keep viewers engaged.
7. Dr. Stone
Overview: “Dr. Stone” follows Senku Ishigami, a genius scientist who awakens thousands of years after humanity is petrified, and he sets out to rebuild civilization with the power of science.
Why It Stands Out: The series combines educational elements with adventure, making science exciting and accessible. Its unique premise and engaging storytelling make it a refreshing addition to the shonen genre.
