One of the genres for which modern anime has been famous or infamous is isekai, in my opinion. I’m not exaggerating when I say there are many. It seems like things really started heating up in the middle of the 2010s when there were six of them in a single anime season.
We can’t ignore the genre’s influence over the last decade or two, even though things have slowed down a bit. Which ones are the best, though? Which ones had the greatest impact? Most people’s favourites? The purpose of today’s list is to share my thoughts on an isekai genre title that has left a lasting impression on the anime industry and is considered the best anime of all time.
Here are the 30 best isekai anime of all time
30. How a Realist Hero Rebuilt the Kingdom
It’s a bit of a hidden gem, a show that didn’t get much attention when it was on. In my view, this is one of the standout examples of a sub-genre that displays promise.
Building a kingdom usually focuses more on kingdom development, politics, economics, and social aspects rather than superpowers and battles. This show offers a different viewing experience compared to the typical battle shounen or rom-com that anime fans are used to.
Realist hero has its fair share of harem tropes and lengthy dialogues, just a heads up. Nevertheless, this might serve as a nice entry point into the sub-genre and help you determine if it’s your cup of tea.
| Where To Watch | Crunchyroll, Hulu, Amazon, Netflix, |
| Studio | J.C.Staff |
| Available in Dub | Yes |
29. Arifureta
Arifureta has introduced many fans to a specific type of anime featuring ecchi elements, characters ranging from weak to overpowered, and revenge-driven storylines.
It follows a familiar formula with a strong main character, a dramatic storyline, romantic entanglements, and action-packed battles to highlight the characters’ abilities. It’s like popcorn entertainment, but the world and story become more engaging over time, moving beyond a revenge plot to an underdog story in a fascinating world.
Season 1 had some production issues, but the second season showed significant improvement. Exciting news! More seasons are on the horizon for one of the most popular stories in the genre.
| Where To Watch | Crunchyroll, Hulu, Netflix |
| Studio | White Fox, asread. |
| Available in Dub | Yes |
28. So I’m a Spider, So What?
If you’re drawn to Arifureta because of the transformation from weak to strong rather than the edgy aspects, this Spider isekai might be a good alternative to explore.
Adding insult to injury, it also shares the CG problems seen in Arifureta, albeit to a lesser extent. However, So I’m a Spider does have its own appeal, mostly thanks to the spirited main character who is a delight to watch. It also highlights the RPG vibes, which have been a key selling point of the genre.
It may not be the best isekai out there, but if you’re looking for a way to kill time, this show is a good option. At the end of the day, it’s a pretty entertaining casual watch.
| Where To Watch | Crunchyroll, Netflix |
| Studio | Millepensee |
| Available in Dub | Yes |
27. Problem Children
A group of teenage rebels find themselves transported to a colourful world where all decisions are made through games. They receive a lot of attention while being paired with a character who often acts clumsy.
It’s not the show you probably have in mind, but it could be considered a prototype. Problem Children is an anime from 2013 that immerses viewers in the vibrant world of Little Garden. In my opinion, it’s a show that doesn’t get enough credit for the standards of 2013.
I also consider it as popcorn entertainment, but it excels in delivering awesome moments, particularly with a protagonist who can nullify others’ powers. It’s fascinating to see how he adapts to the power. Unfortunately, the series only consists of 10 episodes. It’s an okay adaptation, but it’s the kind of title that leaves me hoping for a sequel.
| Where To Watch | Crunchyroll |
| Studio | Diomedea, Diomedéa |
| Available in Dub | Yes |
26. Re:Creators
Having experience on the creator’s side in the past, Recreators and its premise is something I felt personally connected to. It’s exciting to imagine your own creations coming to life and engaging in battles in our world, and that concept grabbed my attention right away.
Looking at the show from a neutral perspective, it remains one of the more ambitious and creative reverse isekais from the past decade or so. With an incredible soundtrack and enjoyable action scenes, the isekai anime delves into some captivating themes.
Regrettably, a potential standout of 2017 seemed to veer off course as it reached its conclusion. Despite not reaching its full potential, the show ended up being quite popular and enjoyable, which is not a bad outcome after all.
| Where To Watch | Crunchyroll, Amazon |
| Studio | TROYCA |
| Available in Dub | No |
25. The World’s Finest Assassin Gets Reincarnated in Another World as an Aristocrat
This isekai captivated anime enthusiasts in 2021 with its distinctive premise. It’s about a man who passed away and was reborn, but this time as a skilled assassin instead of the typical young, tech-savvy teenager. An efficient hitman whose real-world skills might be just what the goddesses need for their task.
To overcome the former summoned hero who has gone rogue. Naturally, he is reincarnated as a powerful boy who receives assistance from some female companions to accomplish his mission. Yet, this harem setup is far from the usual, offering a unique depth to Lugh’s relationships with his female companions.
World’s Finest Assassin is considered one of the rare isekais where the anime elevates the source material to a higher level. It was a show that I was glad I decided to watch, and personally, it was the standout of that season.
| Where To Watch | Crunchyroll, Netflix |
| Studio | Silver Link, Studio Palette |
| Available in Dub | Yes |
24. The Familiar of Zero
Number 24 is Familiar of Zero, a classic choice. Familiar of Zero is a significant part of the trend of dominant Shana clone shows that helped Kugimiya gain popularity in the 2000s.
In this story, she plays the role of an inept mage who accidentally summons the male protagonist into her world. Featuring comedy, ecchi, and plenty of silliness that is evident at first glance. It’s worth noting that the show contains some political intrigue, and the developing relationship between the two main characters contributed to its popularity during that period.
Familiar of Zero is a show that you can quickly gauge the era it belongs to. This show reflects the era before isekai dominated anime, featuring a playful yet intense dynamic between its main characters.
| Where To Watch | Crunchyroll |
| Studio | J.C.Staff |
| Available in Dub | Yes |
23. Cautious Hero: The Hero Is Overpowered but Overly Cautious
One interesting aspect that contributes to isekai’s longevity is the various ways you can add twists to it. Of course, the final outcome may involve the hero overpowering the demon lord, but for many individuals, it’s the adventure, particularly its beginning, that holds the most significance.
It’s similar to Cautious Hero, where the focus isn’t just on the hero winning but on the extreme lengths he goes to, almost to the point of OCD. With a quirky goddess leading the way, Cautious Hero is a fun isekai that will keep you laughing.
Eventually, you discover that these characters have hidden depths, drawing you in and making you highly invested in this anime. Cautious Hero operates on a straightforward concept, encapsulated in a single sentence, yet excels at keeping it engaging. While it’s not perfect, it remains an entertaining show despite its imperfections.
| Where To Watch | Crunchyroll, Netflix |
| Studio | White Fox |
| Available in Dub | Yes |
22. Grimgar
Grimgar was a series I eagerly anticipated watching when it first premiered. The source material art was the main attraction for me, but the first episode didn’t quite meet my expectations.
I’d like to mention that Grimgar is not the type of show that would become mainstream, but that’s perfectly okay. The anime stands out for its focus on character development within the world it creates. It begins at a leisurely pace and may not appeal to everyone.
Everything does pay off eventually, and what you receive is an isekai that pushes the boundaries of the genre in terms of execution and pacing. It’s up to you to determine if the final product is worth the wait. Anyway, I believe it should be appreciated for its significant emphasis on slow world development.
| Where To Watch | Crunchyroll, Hulu |
| Studio | A-1 Pictures |
| Available in Dub | Yes |
21. The Rising of the Shield Hero
I recall Shield Hero being one of the highly anticipated adaptations at that time, and it’s easy to see why. The premise is quite engaging, focusing on a character who uses a shield instead of the more traditional weapons found in the genre. And oh boy, did it cause a commotion when the anime adaptation premiered.
The story quickly captivated the town, sparking interest in its themes of revenge and redemption. Shield Hero and Arifureta are two stories about overcoming betrayal and challenges in unique ways through their protagonists.
The engaging narrative and impressive production values of Shield Hero make it truly deserving of all the hype it receives. The sequels fail to match the impact of the first season now that the revenge plot has been resolved and the show has transitioned into a more typical isekai storyline.
Shield Hero was truly impressive during its first season, leaving a lasting impact at the end of the previous decade.
| Where To Watch | Crunchyroll, Amazon |
| Studio | Kinema Citrus |
| Available in Dub | Yes |
20. Sonny Boy
Sonny Boy is a truly distinctive timepiece, to be frank. This isekai anime has been compared to Drifting Classroom by some viewers. It’s been described as surrealist and some find it unusual.
To be honest, I believe it adds to the charm by offering a unique experience compared to what isekai viewers usually anticipate from the genre. This is like my previous comment on Realist Hero, but now the emphasis is more on character dynamics and relationships rather than action.
Include unique abilities that define the characters and help them navigate the obstacles in the unfamiliar dimension, creating a captivating yet intricate twist on the isekai genre.
This anime truly demonstrates the possibilities of the isekai genre and the captivating stories that can emerge from it. It doesn’t have to be strictly action-adventure or politically charged.
| Where To Watch | Crunchyroll, Amazon, Netflix |
| Studio | Madhouse |
| Available in Dub | Yes |
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19. Tenchi Muyo! War on Geminar
Coming from the year 2009, we have the 19th entry on the list, Tenchi Muyo! War on Geminar. Tenchi Muyo is a classic franchise that originated in the 90s. I was surprised to learn that it received a spin-off OVA in the late 2000s, especially an isekai harem one.
Reflecting on the franchise’s offerings, War on Geminar stands out as one of the more impressive spin-offs. It’s worth noting that the story may come across as generic, but overall, it’s still quite enjoyable. It makes an effort with a mysterious plot that keeps you on the edge of your seat, eager to see what unfolds.
What I appreciate most about War on Geminar, as someone with some familiarity with Tenchi Muyo, is its incredibly strong art direction compared to the rest of the franchise. It’s quite rare to come across a harem where all the girls are likable.
However, in my personal experience, this is one of those instances where that statement is accurate. The Tenchi universe is specialized, making it a great introduction to anime in that genre.
| Where To Watch | Crunchyroll, Hulu |
| Studio | AIC Spirits |
| Available in Dub | Yes |
18. Gate
Number 18 features a reverse isekai with Gate. Experience the epic battle between medieval armies and advanced modern technology in this popular 2015 anime.
Gate is an intriguing isekai that starts with the other world invading Japan and then shifts to the Japanese military getting involved in the other world’s matters. Engage in warfare, face off against fantasy creatures, and navigate through political intrigue. That’s what you can expect from Gate. And don’t forget the essential group of female friends, each with their unique personalities and backgrounds.
Gate is an enjoyable show to watch. While the military themes may seem a bit heavy-handed, it’s interesting to witness the clash between modern weaponry and politics within the medieval isekai setting.
| Where To Watch | Crunchyroll |
| Studio | A-1 Pictures |
| Available in Dub | Yes |
17. The Devil Is a Part-Timer!
One of the top reverse isekai anime is Devil is a Part-Timer, ranking at number 17. One of the most promising shows in the early 2010s, Devil is a Part-Timer has a straightforward premise. The epic showdown between the hero and the demon lord is cut short, sending them both into our world.
Now, they must navigate life among us while facing supernatural dangers and the challenges of everyday human existence. However, it is a very engaging anime due to the strong characters and the balance between serious and comedic moments. Many fans are eagerly anticipating a second season of this popular anime.
Perhaps the shine had faded a bit after ten years of anticipation and the mixed reviews of the source material’s conclusion, but the second season still has some of the charm that made the first season popular. The first season is definitely a winner no matter what.
| Where To Watch | Crunchyroll, Disney+ |
| Studio | White Fox |
| Available in Dub | Yes |
16. Tsukimichi: Moonlit Fantasy
As we reach the midpoint, let’s delve into Tsukimichi. Life doesn’t always go as planned, whether it’s fair or not. When Makoto is transported to another world, he encounters a goddess who promptly sends him to a remote location far from civilization.
Fortunately, his journey and his immense strength attract different inhabitants of the world to him, and with his new friends, he must find a way to locate other humans and reshape society. Tsukimichi is a show with impressive world-building despite being primarily marketed as a comedy.
It exudes a strong meme energy while also poking fun at power fantasy elements. For something that appeared unique with a couple of unexpected elements, I was pleasantly surprised at how smoothly everything came together and functioned effortlessly.
| Where To Watch | Crunchyroll, Netflix |
| Studio | C2C |
| Available in Dub | Yes |
15. The Twelve Kingdoms
Here’s a throwback to the early 2000s when isekai wasn’t as common. Back then, it seemed like high episode counts were the standard, and isekai hadn’t been shaped by medieval game aesthetics and broken protagonists yet.
Twelve Kingdoms appears to be a reflection of its era, drawing inspiration from traditional fantasy realms and exploring the societal and political dynamics within them. Although it didn’t have a captivating start, continuing to watch for a few episodes turned out to be quite rewarding.
Twelve Kingdoms excels in its storytelling and world building. If you’re looking for a change from the vibrant or overly dark visuals in isekai series or the common tropes found in modern adaptations of the genre, Twelve Kingdoms with its 45 episodes offers a more traditional and classical fantasy experience that you might enjoy.
| Where To Watch | Crunchyroll |
| Studio | Pierrot |
| Available in Dub | Yes |
14. Welcome to Demon School! Iruma-kun
Demon School, Iruma-kun may not catch your eye at first glance just by looking at the cover. The storyline involving a boy being sold to the demon Sullivan, who raises him as his grandson, is not particularly unique. The show has a youthful vibe, but I have no regrets about giving it a chance.
By the end, Demon School, Iruma-kun is a show that appeals to a wide range of viewers. There is good comedy, a vibrant world with likable characters, and a charming vibe that you start to appreciate as you get into the show. This anime has a really heartwarming feel to it, making it perfect for a casual and easy watch.
| Where To Watch | Crunchyroll, Hulu |
| Studio | Bandai Namco Pictures |
| Available in Dub | Yes |
13. Uncle from Another World
This is one of the more recent shows that I vaguely recall experienced numerous broadcaster delays. It’s a shame that during that period, this title excels in comedy and self-aware subversion.
Uncle from Another World is truly aware that it’s a parody. This show thrives on humor and exaggeration, resulting in brilliant outcomes. This is top-notch comedy that delivers on its key features while also giving us a subtle nod.
This anime was a real hidden gem back in the day, and I believe more people should definitely check it out if they enjoy self-aware comedy.
| Where To Watch | Crunchyroll, Netflix |
| Studio | AtelierPontdarc |
| Available in Dub | Yes |
12. Drifters
Drifters is an anime that focuses on the concept of being stylish and impressive. A dark fantasy story featuring historical figures joining forces for intense high-octane action is what defines the show for you. It’s no surprise since this anime comes from the same creator as Hellsing, and we all remember how that turned out.
The show excels in its presentation of action, featuring intense violence without reservation. Throughout the story, there are moments of comedy to add a light-hearted touch, allowing you to decide if you appreciate this change in tone within the dark fantasy narrative.
In my opinion, this anime, which I can compare to an action isekai anime, gets a thumbs up from me. Drifters is an anime that definitely deserves a sequel. A genuine one, not the two-episode OVA that we received.
| Where To Watch | Crunchyroll |
| Studio | Hoods Entertainment |
| Available in Dub | Yes |
11. Ascendance of a Bookworm
Need a break from all the conflict? You will absolutely love Ascendance of a Bookworm. Ascendance of a Bookworm offers a unique take on the isekai genre. This story features a protagonist who is not your typical action hero or a one-dimensional character, but rather a humorous take on familiar tropes.
We have a relaxed series that offers a unique slice-of-life experience for anime fans. It promotes a wholesome atmosphere, inviting fans to relax and immerse themselves in the protagonist’s world. It’s definitely one of the top isekai series, despite not getting the recognition it deserves.
Surprisingly, this topic isn’t discussed more often, except among dedicated fans. While it may not become a mainstream hit, it’s worth giving it a try.
| Where To Watch | Crunchyroll |
| Studio | Ajia-Do |
| Available in Dub | No |
10. The Saga of Tanya the Evil
This military isekai is far from being relaxing and chill. The protagonist in your story passes away and is reborn. Thrown into an alternative world, reincarnated as a girl, and faces the dread of war because the god of this world doesn’t like him. You can easily predict the direction of the story and the recurring themes in this well-known anime.
For any enthusiast seeking to experience the edgier and darker side of the genre, it is truly a dream come true. It’s an anime that can evoke strong opinions from viewers. People either really enjoy it or strongly dislike it, with very few falling in the middle based on what I’ve observed.
There is a significant amount of excitement surrounding this show, which continues to be felt years after its initial 2017 airing, whether positive or negative. This story is far from a typical isekai. If you appreciate complex morality, strategic battles, and the theme of rebellion against a deity, then this is perfect for you.
| Where To Watch | Crunchyroll, Hulu |
| Studio | NUT |
| Available in Dub | Yes |
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09. The Boy and the Beast
The Boy and the Beast is an anime that didn’t receive much attention in 2015. As a fan of Mamoru Hosoda and his work, I decided to watch it and was pleasantly surprised by the quality of the anime. This anime is filled with fantastic visuals, a captivating plot, and heartwarming moments that may remind you of popular family films from Japan.
The heart of the story isn’t groundbreaking, as it follows a young protagonist navigating between two different worlds, but it still resonates deeply with the audience. It’s missing that special something, whether in terms of emotions or visuals, to really make it shine and receive a lot of praise.
However, when it comes to an anime about travelling between worlds and the importance of beings from different worlds getting along, it does fulfil its purpose. If you’re looking for an isekai anime about multiple worlds without the fan service, edginess, or overpowered heroes commonly found in isekai anime, The Boy and the Beast is a refreshing choice.
| Where To Watch | Crunchyroll |
| Studio | Studio Chizu |
| Available in Dub | Yes |
08. Overlord
There have been quite a few of these morally questionable main characters in isekai stories over the past decade now that I think about it.
Overlord is set within a video game world, where we follow the adventures of the skeletal lich Ainz and his devoted crew of servants. It generated a lot of excitement earlier because of its unique approach to the trapped in a game storyline and the characters it showcases. Yet, I believe Overlord’s main appeal lies in the depth of Ainz’s character, which unfolds gradually throughout the story.
This anime is all about the characters and their captivating personalities, along with the vibrant world beautifully created by Madhouse. It might seem like Ainz is just another overpowered protagonist in an isekai, with his immense power and willingness to show it off, but Overlord has much more depth than just being cool.
| Where To Watch | Crunchyroll, Netflix |
| Studio | Madhouse |
| Available in Dub | Yes |
07. That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime
This story stands out as a prime example of weak to strong narratives in the modern isekai genre. While it follows typical genre conventions and may seem stereotypical at first, Reincarnated as a Slime demonstrates that it can be an enjoyable show without relying on flashy gimmicks to stand out.
All that’s required is a compelling main character for fans to connect with, exciting battles, and a diverse group of characters to bring the vibrant story world to life. Incorporate elements of kingdom-building into this adventure, and you’ll have an entertaining and captivating story that can span multiple seasons and gain a lot of popularity.
Slime keeps things simple and authentic, which could be a refreshing change in a world filled with attempts to stand out or be satirical.
| Where To Watch | Crunchyroll, Hulu, Netflix |
| Studio | 8bit |
| Available in Dub | Yes |
06. Sword Art Online
SAO always seems to be in the right place at the right time. During its initial season, we were on the verge of significant advancements in gaming and the internet. Enter this anime with an exciting premise and a charismatic main character during a period when popular mainstream shows are starting to fade, resulting in one of the most significant anime trends of the 2010s.
There has been a lot of discussion about SAO during its decade of popularity, but one aspect that is frequently overlooked is the series’ ability to consistently uphold its themes. The focus has never been on the death games, but rather on the intersection of the real and virtual worlds, as depicted in its different storylines.
However, SAO has its fair share of problems, mainly concerning the protagonist and the fan service, which make it a polarizing topic and hinder it from achieving the same level of success as a series like Attack on Titan. However, it’s undeniable how it helped propel us into the peak of isekai’s popularity.
| Where To Watch | Crunchyroll, Hulu, Amazon, Netflix, |
| Studio | A-1 Pictures |
| Available in Dub | Yes |
05. Eminence in Shadow
Eminence in Shadow turned out to be much more popular and enjoyable than I initially anticipated. Everything seemed destined to become a cult hit, but the sudden explosion of popularity caught me off guard. I believe Eminence in Shadow succeeded by fully embracing memes, irony, and parody.
It’s something that may seem cringe-worthy at first, but upon closer inspection, there’s actually quite a bit to unpack. There are plenty of truly amazing moments throughout, and although it starts off slow, it quickly becomes captivating. Perhaps it’s because of the unexpected nature of events or how you’ve unknowingly become invested in the characters.
This isekai anime offers more than meets the eye, which is why it has become a major success in recent years. While it may not appeal to everyone, for those in the target market, it’s truly fantastic.
| Where To Watch | Amazon, Netflix |
| Studio | Nexus |
| Available in Dub | Yes |
04. KonoSuba
Now for a different twist on parody. Similar to Eminence in Shadow, Konosuba is a parody isekai that prioritizes pure entertainment over a complex plot.
The characters are exaggerated versions of typical archetypes, and much of the humor is taken to the extreme. Konosuba is an anime that showcases the creativity of the genre through clever references and playful twists on cliches. It offers multiple seasons and a anime filled with humor.
The main quartet of characters are ideal for making this work seamlessly. I usually don’t categorize specific titles as programs where you can simply relax and enjoy the chaos without thinking too much. But I believe that perfectly describes Konosuba. While the humor may cater to a specific audience or push boundaries, it adds to the unique charm that sets this anime apart.
| Where To Watch | Crunchyroll |
| Studio | Studio Deen |
| Available in Dub | Yes |
03. No Game, No Life
Recall the anime Problem Child from a while ago? Many people view it as a prototype of one of the most popular anime of 2014, No Game, No Life.
No Game, No Life explores a universe where games reign supreme, featuring a wide variety of unique games with a strong emphasis on comedic references and over-the-top fan service. This anime is perfect for fans of anime culture, offering entertaining popcorn fun.
The characters in the show also contribute significantly to keeping the audience engaged, especially the protagonist twins who have many impressive moments showcasing their intelligence.
By the way, the prequel anime No Game, No Life Zero takes a different direction, becoming more serious, yet it’s definitely one of the top anime films I’ve watched in the 2010s. It definitely deserves recognition no matter how I see it. I would love to see another season of the main series.
| Where To Watch | Crunchyroll, Hulu |
| Studio | Madhouse |
| Available in Dub | Yes |
02. Mushoku Tensei
SAO was instrumental in popularizing the modern isekai trend, but Mushoku Tensei set the standard for isekai genre conventions and character tropes. This story is all about growth and redemption, woven into an exciting adventure.
It follows Rudeus as he evolves and matures through his interactions with various characters and the world around him. It boasts exceptional production values that are not commonly seen. Mushoku Tensei is considered one of the best isekai anime adaptations, recognized for its significant impact on the genre.
The impressive adaptation and production definitely deserve recognition, especially given the unpredictable nature of anime adaptations when transitioning from mediums like novels.
| Where To Watch | Crunchyroll, Hulu, Amazon, Netflix, |
| Studio | Studio Bind |
| Available in Dub | Yes |
01. Re:Zero − Starting Life in Another World
Finally, we have Re: Zero. Re Zero challenges the overpowered hero trope and avoids the controversial aspects often found in anime like Mushoku. Instead, you are taken on a journey following the story of a determined protagonist as he navigates through challenges and setbacks to achieve his desired outcome.
Throughout the story, we are introduced to various aspects of characters and the world, all intertwining to create a captivating thriller that keeps us eagerly anticipating what unfolds next. One thing I really appreciate about Re Zero is that it remains a contemporary anime at heart.
It doesn’t make a big fuss about eliminating the tropes and still includes magical powers, waifus, convoluted character drama, and other elements that define anime compared to other forms of entertainment.
All in all, I believe that Re Zero is the whole package and deserves the title of the best isekai anime of all time.
| Where To Watch | Crunchyroll, Hulu, Amazon, Netflix |
| Studio | White Fox |
| Available in Dub | Yes |
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