Fantasy storytelling captivates audiences, ranging from the epic narratives like Lord of the Rings to whimsical tales such as My Princess Bride. Among various mediums, none have embraced this genre quite like anime, offering a rich tapestry of fantasy anime to explore. With an extensive array of captivating titles available, determining which stories to prioritize is no small feat.
Over the decades, countless animated series have transported viewers to fantastical realms, intertwining the ordinary with the extraordinary. Certain anime have become iconic, representing essential viewing for fantasy enthusiasts. Let’s delve into some of the greatest fantasy anime of all time, perfect for newcomers and seasoned fans alike.
Updated December 20, 2024 by Mark Sammut: As the Fall 2024 anime season wraps up, excitement builds for Winter 2025, set to deliver a plethora of new titles, including some highly anticipated fantasy stories.
Note: Isekai anime will be excluded from this discussion, as it has its own dedicated spotlight.
Exciting Winter 2025 Fantasy Anime
The anime industry operates year-round, with seasons replacing each other to keep fans entertained continuously. While Winter 2025 may not boast the same number of standout titles as Fall 2024, it promises a range of enjoyable fantasy content. Here’s a sneak peek at some of this season’s highlights (excluding isekai titles):
- Solo Leveling Season 2: Arise from the Shadows – Anticipation surrounds this sequel, as it is undoubtedly the most awaited anime of Winter 2025. Following a highly acclaimed first season, this adaptation of the popular manhwa is set to continue thrilling viewers with captivating battles and intriguing hunter politics.
- Fate/strange Fake – A continuation of the celebrated Fate franchise, this installment introduces a unique premise involving a counterfeit Holy Grail War that spirals into chaos. The Whispers of Dawn special effectively laid the groundwork for what could be an extraordinary series.
- I May Be a Guild Receptionist, but I’ll Solo Any Boss to Clock Out on Time – This light-hearted adaptation promises a fun and whimsical experience. Despite occasional inconsistencies, CloverWorks’ stunning visuals enhance this light-hearted fantasy.
- Ubel Blatt – A dark fantasy adaptation of a divisive seinen manga, Ubel Blatt tells the story of Koinzell, driven by vengeance against those who betrayed him. This anime will be exclusively available on Amazon Prime Video.
Here’s a look at some of the finest fantasy anime of all time…
Humanity Has Declined
MyAnimeList: 7.72
The title of this anime is quite fitting: Humanity has Declined portrays an era where humans face extinction, with fairies rising as the earth’s new dominant beings. However, these impulsive fairies require guidance, which is delivered by a pragmatic unnamed protagonist.
This series melds surreal humor with vibrant visuals and a cynical outlook, presenting a world caught between eras of human existence and the whimsical chaos that ensues.
Undead Murder Farce
MyAnimeList: 7.91
One of the standout surprises of Summer 2023, Undead Murder Farce, transports viewers to an alternate Meiji-era Japan. This anime follows a headless immortal woman, her fiercely loyal maid, and an ogre-human hybrid as they engage in a series of supernatural investigations.
By merging historical elements with supernatural fiction, the series creates a world where demons and vampires coexist with humans, revealing the complexities and conflicts that arise from this arrangement.
Solo Leveling
MyAnimeList: 8.33
Expectations can be a double-edged sword. With immense popularity comes great scrutiny, and many eagerly anticipate Solo Leveling’s adaptation. This famed manhwa, recognized as a pillar of the genre, has seen a surge in manhwa’s popularity, influencing many similar works.
Set in a world where mystical gates unlock dungeons and grant certain humans extraordinary powers, we follow the journey of Sung Jin-Woo, initially the weakest among hunters. However, after an fateful encounter, he’s offered a chance to drastically change his destiny.
The first season adeptly balanced expectations, showcasing rich action, stunning artistry, and an engaging character development arc that resonates with fans.
Magi
MyAnimeList: 8.01 (Season 1)
Comprising two seasons—The Labyrinth of Magic and The Kingdom of Magic—Magi draws inspiration from the enchanting tales of Arabian Nights. The narrative follows beloved characters like Aladdin, Sinbad, and Ali Baba as they navigate expansive adventures ripe with treasure and intrigue.
Initially modest, the series evolves significantly, delving into deeper political and social dynamics of its world as it progresses, especially in the enthralling sequel.
Violet Evergarden
MyAnimeList: 8.67
Based on Kana Akatsuki’s poignant light novel series, Violet Evergarden chronicles the story of a battle-hardened Auto Memory Doll who ventures into the world of correspondence after the war ends. Through her missions, she encounters and learns about human emotions in intimate ways.
This episodic anime shines at its best, showcasing deep emotional narratives interwoven within its stunning animation, while the accompanying film further enriches the experience.
Mushi-Shi
MyAnimeList: 8.66 (Season 1)
While “fantasy”can encompass a broad range of interpretations, Mushishi stands apart by offering a calming reflection on one man’s journey through a beauty-infused natural world. Ginko, our protagonist, travels across Japan to study Mushi—ethereal creatures that embody various mysteries of life.
Each episode serves as a self-contained story, seamlessly blending the ethereal and the everyday, making it a tranquil viewing experience.
Hunter X Hunter
MyAnimeList: 9.04
Renowned as one of the best action shounen anime, Hunter x Hunter begins as a conventional entry before unveiling its unique structure and nuanced characters. In a world where Hunters unlock secrets and face daunting adversaries, Gon and Killua are our main protagonists exploring their potential.
The anime excels with its complex narrative arcs, impressive power systems, and exceptional world-building, making it a standout in the fantasy genre.
Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood
MyAnimeList: 9.10
A cornerstone of anime culture, Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood adapts Hiromu Arakawa’s revered manga, presenting a world governed by alchemy’s laws. The story follows the Elric brothers, who, after a tragic attempt to resurrect their mother, become State Alchemists on a quest for redemption.
This anime masterfully balances themes of loss, ambition, and the moral dilemmas of their journey, often oscillating between humor and heart-wrenching moments.
Attack On Titan
MyAnimeList: 8.54 (Season 1)
Debuting in 2013, Attack on Titan swiftly ascended to legendary status, introducing a grim tale of humanity’s struggle against the terrifying Titans. Eren Jaeger’s harrowing journey begins with the loss of his mother, setting off an epic quest for vengeance and survival that grows in complexity with each season.
This anime defines dark fantasy narratives, concluding with an engaging final season that diverges from the initial tone significantly.
InuYasha
MyAnimeList: 7.86
InuYasha captured audiences worldwide after its U.S. debut in 2002, becoming a cherished classic that follows Kagome and InuYasha’s quest to restore the Shikon Jewel. The series spans over 160 episodes filled with adventure and romance, solidifying its lasting legacy in anime history.
Delicious In Dungeon
MyAnimeList: 8.58
Delicious in Dungeon redefines conventional fantasy tropes, offering a delightful narrative about a group of adventurers hunting for a dragon that devoured their companion. In a world where revivals are possible, they must rescue their fallen ally and, to save time, discover the culinary potential of the dungeon’s monstrous denizens.
Blending humor and compelling character interactions, this anime evolves into a darker narrative midway through, surprising viewers yet still enriching their experience.
Mononoke
MyAnimeList: 8.42
Mononoke follows the enigmatic “Medicine Seller”as he combats evildoers while emphasizing the vulnerabilities of the individuals he encounters. This horror fantasy anime applies striking visuals and psychological depth, creating a unique narrative experience.
One Piece
MyAnimeList: 8.71
Spanning close to 1000 episodes, One Piece is a titanic anime phenomenon that continues to enchant fans. While the original manga by Eiichiro Oda is the best way to engage with the Straw Hat Pirates’ journey, the anime adaptation delivers a visually stunning and adventure-driven narrative.
Each arc introduces new locations, characters, and challenges, showcasing Oda’s unparalleled world-building. As the series approaches its conclusion, newcomers may find it daunting, yet the experience remains worthwhile for those ready to embark on this epic adventure.
Fate/Zero
MyAnimeList: 8.28 (Season 1)
Fate/Zero serves as a prequel to the acclaimed Fate/stay night, chronicling the fierce battles of Kiritsugu against other formidable mages in the Fourth Holy Grail War. Its popularity has spawned numerous spin-offs and adaptations, offering a vast universe for fans to explore.
Black Clover
MyAnimeList: 8.15
Encompassing 170 episodes, Black Clover finished airing in 2021 after capturing fans’ hearts. Following the story of Asta and Yuno, two orphans with dreams of becoming the Wizard King, this shonen anime is steeped in magic and adventure.
The anime’s popularity propelled it to notable accolades, including adaptations into ONAs, OVAs, and even a film, appealing to fans of high fantasy.
Made In Abyss
MyAnimeList: 8.66 (Season 1)
What mysteries await at the bottom of the Abyss? This anime follows a young girl with aspirations of adventure and her unique robot companion as they plunge into its depths. Despite a charming exterior, Made in Abyss is unflinching in portraying its darker themes.
Regarded as one of the premier dark fantasy anime of recent years, its compelling narrative reaffirms the emotional toll of their quest, resonating with audiences profoundly.
Freeze: Beyond Journey’s End
MyAnimeList: 9.38
Emerging as Fall 2023’s standout show, Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End offers a refreshing take on the classic hero’s journey narrative. Set in a post-adventurer landscape, the story follows Frieren, an elf reflecting on her life after the defeat of her adversary, alongside her students.
Emphasizing introspection, character development, and the value of enjoying life’s moments, this anime showcases masterful world-building that resonates on multiple levels.
Studio Ghibli’s Fantasy Movies
| Standout Fantasy Movies | Japanese Titles | Director | Where to Stream |
|---|---|---|---|
| Castle in the Sky (1986) | Shiro Laputa | Hayao Miyazaki | Max |
| My Neighbor Totoro (1988) | Tono no Totoro | Hayao Miyazaki | |
| Kiki’s Delivery Service (1989) | Master’s Degree | Hayao Miyazaki | |
| Pom Poko (1994) | Heisei Tanuki Gassen Ponpoko | Isao Takahata | |
| Princess Mononoke (1997) | Mononoke Hime | Hayao Miyazaki | |
| Spirited Away (2001) | Sen to Chihiro’s Kamikakushi | Hayao Miyazaki | |
| Howl’s Moving Castle (2004) | Howl no Ugoku Shiro | Hayao Miyazaki | |
| Ponyo (2008) | Gake no Ue no Ponyo | Hayao Miyazaki | |
| The Secret World of Arrietty (2010) | Arrietty | Hiromasa Yonebayashi | |
| The Tale of the Princess Kaguya (2013) | The Tale of the Kaguya-hime | Isao Takahata |
Studio Ghibli stands as a titan in the anime film industry, renowned for its captivating fantasy narratives. While adept at portraying realistic dramas, the studio’s hallmark remains its enchanting fantasy tales, particularly under the masterful direction of Hayao Miyazaki. Most Ghibli films deliver beautiful animation, memorable characters, and touching scores, often exploring themes of nature, conflict, and progress.
For newcomers, Castle in the Sky is a perfect entry point, showcasing Miyazaki’s storytelling prowess. My Neighbor Totoro presents a heartwarming story devoid of grandeur yet filled with warmth and wonder, while Spirited Away, an Academy Award winner, is arguably Miyazaki’s crowning achievement.
Isao Takahata’s films, contrastingly, often focus on intimate human experiences, though Pom Poko embodies the fantasy genre’s whimsical elements. His final film, The Tale of the Princess Kaguya, uniquely adapts a classic Japanese tale, earning its place among Ghibli’s finest.
Additionally, Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind, released prior to the inception of Studio Ghibli, remains a significant work in Miyazaki’s oeuvre.
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