40 Shonen Jump Anime You Don’t Want to Miss Out on Watching!

Anime
©吾峠呼世晴/集英社・アニプレックス・ufotable
Anime

“Shonen Jump” has produced many famous manga as a manga magazine. Among them, the most popular manga has been adapted into anime and has been enjoyed by many people.

This time, we will introduce only the exciting works from Jump anime in a ranking format, regardless of their popularity. From nostalgic pieces to new ones, both those who have seen them before and those who have not should be able to find their favourite work!

This article will mainly introduce anime adaptations of “Weekly Shonen Jump” works and anime adaptations of “Jump Square” works.

This ranking was selected and ranked by the 1Screen Magazine editorial team based on criteria such as buzz, storytelling, and excitement.

1st Place: Dragon Ball

The well-known masterpiece anime Dragon Ball.

A boy with a tail named Son Goku meets a girl named Bulma, who informs him about the existence of the Dragon Balls, which can grant any wish when all seven are collected. He discovers that one of the balls he inherited from his father is among them and is on a journey to find the Dragon Balls.

Regarding Jump anime, Dragon Ball is undoubtedly the first name that comes to mind. Its exciting battles, friendships, and thrilling adventures captivated many people. It is an eternal masterpiece that both adults and children can enjoy. In 2022, the anime continued to air new series, making it a national anime work that can be called a household name!

This classic battle manga follows the traditional route of defeating strong enemies only to have even stronger ones appear. It’s a thrilling story that will keep you on the edge of your seat as you wonder how the main character will become stronger through their training to face opponents from other dimensions. This is a must-read for those who enjoy classic Shonen manga!

2nd place: ONE PIECE

©尾田栄一郎/集英社

The anime adaptation of the manga ONE PIECE, which holds the Guinness record for “the most copies published for a single author comic series,” has been on the air since its debut in 1999 until the present day (2022).

In the age of great pirates, Luffy, who gained rubber powers after eating the Devil Fruit, sets sail to become the Pirate King. Along the way, he meets various companions, and together, they continue their adventure in search of the “One Piece,” a legendary treasure said to be located at the end of the “Grand Line.”

This work depicts the classic Shonen manga with heart-pounding excitement. It’s a must-watch for those who love adventure and battle anime.

This work is full of exciting settings such as Devil Fruits and Bounties. In addition to being a classic shonen manga, it is also known for having many episodes that can make the audience feel emotional. Therefore, it’s recommended for those who want to watch a super masterpiece that can make them laugh and cry!

3rd Place: HUNTER×HUNTER

(c)P98-22

HUNTER×HUNTER is an anime adaptation of a manga by Yoshihiro Togashi, the creator of Yu Yu Hakusho. As of September 2022, Togashi has been posting progress on his manga manuscripts on social media, and fans eagerly anticipate the series’ resumption. Therefore, the anime we are introducing today is the 2011 version, the second manga adaptation.

Gon, the son of a hunter, decides to become a hunter to meet his father. He begins his adventure with his friends Killua, Kurapika, and Leorio, whom he met during the Hunter Exam.

Although the premise is a typical shonen trope, the series includes dark and disturbing storylines, such as the Chimera Ant arc, making it a dark battle anime.

It is recommended for those who love battle anime with strong camaraderie between characters, intense action, and a complex and detailed storyline, including a card game introduced in the series.

4th place: Yu Yu Hakusho

©Yoshihiro Togashi 1990年−1994年 ©ぴえろ/集英社

In 1993, the anime Yu Yu Hakusho was adapted from the manga that won the 39th Shogakukan Manga Award and continues to attract a solid fan base.

The protagonist, delinquent Yusuke Urameshi, dies in a traffic accident at the story’s beginning. To come back to life, he becomes a spirit detective and fights against demons, which leads to a significant change in his destiny.

Yu Yu Hakusho has a unique charm that appeals to fans of adolescent delinquent stories. The diverse characters engage in battles that are different from other battle anime, which makes it very addicting.

What’s recommended about this anime is how Yusuke, a regular delinquent, becomes increasingly vital through his battles with demons. He is stern yet kind, and his ability to become angry for the sake of others makes him such an appealing protagonist!

5th place: SLAM DUNK

(C)井上雄彦・アイティープランニング・東映アニメーション

SLAM DUNK, which has become so popular that it is said, “When it comes to basketball, it’s Slamdunk,” is an anime adaptation of a manga that is highly regarded as a sports anime. The new anime, “THE FIRST SLAM DUNK,” which will be released in December 2022, is also gaining attention.

Sakuragi Hanamichi, an unpopular delinquent, is encouraged to join the basketball club by Haruko, whom he falls in love with at first sight. The simple-minded Hanamichi immediately joins the club. Although he initially dislikes the tedious practice, he gradually awakens his talent. He begins to walk the path of a “basket man” with the unique members of the Shohoku basketball team.

SLAM DUNK, which has produced many famous lines such as “If you give up, the game is over” and “It’s not time to panic yet,” is a must-see for anyone who wants to play Basketball!

Recommended for those who want to read a realistic sports manga, this work does not feature any special moves or characters with extraordinary abilities. Instead, Hanamichi starts from the basics and practices little by little, gradually becoming a better player.

6th place: JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure series

(C) 荒木飛呂彦/集英社・ジョジョの奇妙な冒険製作委員会

The anime series based on the manga Jojo’s Bizarre Adventure by Hirohiko Araki has been adapted into six parts. The series is also famous for its games, novels, and live-action adaptations.

The story is set in England and begins with the battle between Jonathan Joestar and Dio, who become vampires searching for superhuman powers. The setting and characters change in each subsequent part, making it possible to enjoy each piece independently.

The unique sound effects like “Muda Muda” and the decisive battles featuring Ripple and Stands introduced in Part 3 are highlights of the series.

Recommended for those who love ability-based battle anime, this series is considered a pioneer in the genre. With multiple parts featuring different protagonists, viewers can enjoy each piece for an extended period!

7th place: NARUTO

©岸本斉史 スコット/集英社・テレビ東京・ぴえろ

NARUTO is a ninja anime that has received high praise in Japan and worldwide.

Naruto Uzumaki, a struggling ninja, dreams of becoming the Hokage, the village leader. However, Naruto is ostracized by the villagers for reasons he does not know, and Sakura, the girl he likes, is obsessed with Sasuke, a member of the elite Uchiha clan. Nevertheless, Naruto never relinquishes his dream and grows into a ninja.

NARUTO is a well-known anime series that has gained high praise for its ninja battles. It is a must-watch masterpiece for those who want to see ninja combat!

This work can be said to represent Japanese ninja anime. The ninja battles using various abilities are a must-see masterpiece, and the human drama that involves Naruto and Sasuke’s intense fate is also worth watching.

8th place: Rurouni Kenshin

Many anime series deals with the Bakumatsu period, but one of the most popular is Rurouni Kenshin. The theme songs, such as “Sobakasu” and “1/3 no Junjou na Kanjou,” were also big hits.

The main character is the legendary assassin of the Bakumatsu, Himura Kenshin. After the end of the Bakumatsu era, Kenshin disappeared and resurfaced in Meiji 11 as a wanderer who took an oath not to kill and called himself “Rurouni.” By chance, Kenshin ends up living with Kaoru Kamiya, a tomboy who runs a dojo.

The anime series received mixed reactions due to the omission of the “Jinchuu” arc, which portrays Kenshin’s confrontation with his past. However, the depiction of Kenshin’s psychological struggles and farewell with Kaoru received high praise, making it an anime that continues to be loved by many.

The series depicts the aftermath of a handsome man’s battle with his past and the fierce struggles that follow. Kenshin’s gentle yet inner solid conflicts are heart-wrenching, and his sharp gaze as an assassin is mesmerizing. The series is a battle anime but also features a well-developed romantic storyline.

9th place: Demon Slayer

©吾峠呼世晴/集英社・アニプレックス・ufotable

This series began serialization in 2016, and the first season of the T.V. anime was released in 2019, followed by a theatrical release in 2020. Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba – Mugen Train set a world record for the highest box office revenue in 2020 and became a legend. The series has been gradually adapted into anime since 2021.

Set in the Taisho era, Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba follows Tanjirou Kamado, a charcoal seller who supports his family by earning a living. When he returns home one day, he finds his family brutally murdered and his only surviving sister turned into a man-eating demon. Tanjirou sets out on a journey to find a way to turn his sister back into a human.

The series features stunning animation by Ufotable and an engaging story.

As the protagonist is a boy who fights man-eating demons, the series contains many graphic scenes that are uncommon for a Shonen Jump anime. The characters’ pasts, including the monsters, are filled with various events, and the dark atmosphere is intense. However, the series also includes classic elements such as “breath-powered combat,” making it a well-rounded anime.

10th place: Jujutsu Kaisen

©芥見下々/集英社・呪術廻戦製作委員会

Jujutsu Kaisen depicts the battle between “cursed spirits” born from negative human emotions and “jujutsu sorcerers,” as well as the unusual fate of the protagonist, Yuji Itadori.

Yuji Itadori, a high school student who was only exceptional in his physical abilities, accidentally swallows the most dangerous special-grade cursed object, “Sukuna’s fingers,” during a particular incident. Even though humans would generally die after ingesting a cursed thing, Yuji can somehow maintain his consciousness.

As a result of becoming a cursed spirit, Yuji is faced with “dying immediately” or “consuming all of Sukuna’s fingers and dying.” This work is a dark fantasy battle story with an intense atmosphere, unusual for a Jump manga, where characters die one after another.

This dark work with a solid dark tone confirms the protagonist’s death in the early stages. The sorcerers’ jujutsu have originality, making it a must-see for those who enjoy battle anime featuring ability systems!

11th place: My Hero Academia

©堀越耕平/集英社・僕のヒーローアカデミア製作委員会

My Hero Academia is a classic story about a dull boy striving to become a hero.

The protagonist, Izuku Midoriya, is an ordinary person without a “Quirk,” a superpower most people possess. Despite this, he aspires to become a hero to defeat villains who misuse their Quirks. He aims to attend U.A. High School, a prestigious school for hero training, but his lack of a Quirk makes it impossible. However, he meets a hero known as “All Might,” the symbol of peace, who changes his destiny.

The characters’ personalities and unique Quirks make this show captivating, including the villains who possess an allure of their own. Once you start watching, you won’t be able to stop.

The main characters are high school students aspiring to become heroes, creating a positive and refreshing atmosphere. This is a must-see if you enjoy watching the rise of the underdog protagonist. You can also enjoy the behind-the-scenes of the fantasy hero world, such as changing costumes and rescue training.

12th place: Haikyuu!!

(c)古舘春一/集英社


The anime Haikyuu!! It is an adaptation of a manga series serialized in Weekly Shonen Jump. It gained popularity for its overwhelming quality and had three seasons broadcast between 2014 and 2016. A fourth season was published in 2020.

The story follows Hinata Shoyo, a short and inexperienced yet enthusiastic player who joins the volleyball club of Karasuno High School. When he arrives, he finds his middle school’s genius setter, Kageyama Tobio, who defeated him in a game in the past. Together with other first-year members, they aim to challenge the powerhouse schools and restore Karasuno’s former glory.

The anime beautifully portrays the speed and excitement of volleyball games and has received high praise for its animation quality. If you enjoy sports anime, this one is a must-watch.

What’s recommended about this anime is that it not only focuses on the outcome of the matches but also depicts the inner conflicts and emotions of high school students. You won’t be able to take your eyes off the story centring around the optimistic protagonist with short stature and the others who dedicate their youth to volleyball.

13th place: DEATH NOTE

©大場つぐみ・小畑健/集英社・VAP・マッドハウス・NTV・D.N.ドリームパートナーズ

The anime DEATH NOTE, which unfolds from the premise of “those whose names are written in it shall die,” became incredibly popular due to the cleverness of its story and direction, even though it lacks the typical battle, romantic comedy, and gag elements that are typical of Jump.

After obtaining the Death Note dropped by the Shinigami Ryuk, the brilliant high school student Light Yagami aims to create a new world without criminals by judging and killing them. Unfortunately, the police, who become aware of the killings by a mysterious power, seek cooperation from Detective L, who never shows his face. From there, a mental battle between Light and L begins.

The tense plot around Death Note makes it a masterpiece that viewers will want to watch in one sitting, without even taking a break to breathe.

The unique feature of this work is that the protagonist is a mass murderer. Viewers who know their identity of Kira will hold their breath as they watch the mental battle between him and L.

14th place: Dr.STONE

(C)米スタジオ・Boichi/集英社・Dr.STONE製作委員会

This work is based on the manga Dr.STONE, which concluded in 2022. Dr.STONE is known for their battles, human drama, and the enjoyment of creating things commonplace in modern times through chemistry.

One day, a mysterious light covers Earth, and all living things are petrified. Finally, 3,700 years after the petrification event, Senku Ishigami, a high school student who managed to maintain consciousness, breaks out of his stone shell.

He finds a message as he travels through the roads turning into jungles. Following the instructions in the news, he encounters his best friend, Taiju Oki.

This work depicts the struggle of the main characters to return the world, which has reverted to the primitive age, to modern times through evolution. As a result, there are no everyday things in the story’s world, and the scenes where simple things are created through the revelation of the process pique the audience’s curiosity.

15th place: Assassination Classroom

(C)松井優征/集英社・アニメ「暗殺教室」製作委員会

Assassination Classroom is a youth anime depicting a middle school student attempting to assassinate the strongest creature for a year. As the title suggests, it is a story about learning assassination in the classroom.

At Kunugigaoka Junior High School, there is a class called Class E, where students with academic and behavioural problems are isolated. The teacher who came to teach this E class is Koro-sensei, a super creature that has destroyed 70% of the moon. At the request of the Ministry of Defense, the students try to assassinate Koro-sensei, but surprisingly, Koro-sensei turns out to be an excellent teacher…!?

It is a vital work with an assassination theme that allows you to feel the growth of the students. In addition, the one-year time limit for assassination is depicted carefully, and you can enjoy a unique yet familiar youth story.

This work portrays the students who develop a strange bond with Koro-sensei, who should be their assassination target. It is a lovely piece to watch as Class E, which is supposed to be inferior, becomes excellent under Koro-sensei’s guidance. While watching this series, you cannot help but be curious about Koro-sensei’s mysteries.

16th place: Bakuman

©大場つぐみ・小畑健/集英社

Bakuman is an anime based on a manga of the same name that portrays boys and girls who dream of becoming manga artists. It is a compelling work with a three-part structure and 176 episodes.

In their third year of middle school, Moritaka Mashiro and Akito Takagi are invited to pursue their dreams of becoming manga artists. Moritaka, who has a crush on the aspiring voice actress Miho Azuki, makes a promise to her that they will get married once his manga gets adapted into an anime. To achieve their dream, they begin drawing manga from morning until night.

This anime is a story about the friendship of manga artists with strong individual personalities and a documentary-like portrayal of the reality of manga artists and their challenges in pursuing their dreams. This captivating work will hook you in from the first episode.

This anime provides a unique taste of youth that is different from the typical sports anime that portray young people challenging their brutal dreams. It is highly recommended for those interested in the behind-the-scenes world of manga artists.

17th place: Hikaru no Go

©ほったゆみ・HMC・小畑健・ノエル/集英社・テレビ東京・電通・ぴえろ

The anime Hikaru no Go overcame the opinion of “Can a board game like Go be made into an anime?” with its overwhelming entertainment value and sparked a vast Go boom.

The protagonist, Hikaru Shindo, a sixth-grader, becomes possessed by the genius Go player of the Heian period, Sai, who resides on a Go board. So, for the sake of Sai, who loves Go more than anything, Hikaru picks up a Go stone for the first time. And from there, Hikaru’s life as a Go player begins.

Although this is a work based on a board game, which is not often covered in anime, it is a masterpiece that portrays the friendship between Hikaru and Sai, the rivalry between Hikaru and Akira Toya, and Hikaru’s growth, depicting “friendship, effort, and victory” to the fullest.

This work is easy to enjoy even if you don’t know much about the rules of Go, as there is a simple explanation. It is recommended for those who want to watch an anime about a not-so-major sport.

18th place: Prince of Tennis

©許斐 剛/集英社・NAS・新テニスの王子様プロジェクト ©BUSHI

The anime Prince of Tennis found a new potential in sports anime by depicting original tennis gameplay.

Ryoma Echizen, a cheeky middle school first-year known for his catchphrase “Mada mada dane” (You still have a ways to go), enrolls in the prestigious Seishun Academy joins its tennis club. Despite being a freshman, Ryoma becomes a regular player with overwhelming skills and competes against many rivals with his teammates, growing as a player.

The techniques, personalities, and storyline of Prince of Tennis are all of high quality, with the increasingly flashy playing style of the characters becoming a hot topic.

This is recommended for fans who enjoy both ability-based and sports anime as the debate continues about whether this is truly a tennis anime!

19th place: BLEACH

©久保帯人/集英社・テレビ東京・dentsu・ぴえろ

Based on the manga BLEACH, which had long been a flagship series in Weekly Shonen Jump, the anime has aired 366 episodes. In 2022, the highly anticipated “Thousand-Year Blood War” arc will also be broadcast over four cours.

Ichigo Kurosaki, a high school student with orange hair who becomes a substitute Soul Reaper, battles evil spirits alongside Rukia Kuchiki, a Soul Reaper. However, when he learns that Rukia is being punished in the Soul Society as a criminal, Ichigo ventures into the afterlife to rescue her.

The series gained popularity for its contemporary poetry, unique character names, and settings that appeal to the “chuunibyou” syndrome (eighth-grader syndrome). The anime-original storylines are of high quality, and even fans of the original manga will enjoy watching.

This series is full of elements that appeal to “chuunibyou” and shonen manga fans, such as “Zanpakuto” and “Bankai.” The series is sure to tug at the hearts of those who love shonen manga, with the names and dialogue of the Zanpakuto being especially noteworthy. Of course, the battles involving Soul Reapers’ powers are also a must-see!

20th place: Gintama

©空知英秋/劇場版銀魂製作委員会

Gintama is a gag anime set in a wacky world of Edo and aliens. In 2017, a live-action movie was also released, further increasing the popularity of Gintama.

In a world where samurais have lost their place due to the invasion of aliens, a natural perm samurai named Gintoki Sakata runs an odd jobs business called Yorozuya. Unfortunately, along with the straight man Shinpachi and the combat alien Kagura, the Yorozuya Gintoki-chan get into all sorts of trouble.

This anime is full of irreverent gags and surreal humour that will make you laugh until your stomach hurts. However, the occasional heartwarming story also adds to the series’ appeal.

It is recommended for those who like over-the-top parodies and crude humour that push the boundaries of anime. Gintama is a Jump-style anime where Gintoki may seem lazy and unreliable, but he can also be excellent and dependable when the situation calls for it.

21st place: Eyeshield 21

© 米スタジオ・ビレッジスタジオ/集英社・テレビ東京・NAS

One of the most popular anime series, Eyeshield 21, is based on a manga of the same name, illustrated by Yusuke Murata, who also did the animation. The anime was broadcast for three years, from 2005 to 2008.

The story follows the timid protagonist, Sena Kobayakawa, who is forced to be a lackey for a group of delinquents. One day, his speed catches the attention of Hiruma, the captain of the American football club. Sena is then coerced into joining the team and becomes the mysterious player, Eyeshield 21.

This is a sports-themed Cinderella story where the weak protagonist finds his strength and becomes a hero. The series showcases the growth of the team and Sena’s skills through the matches, along with thrilling action scenes.

One of the series highlights its cast of unique and exciting characters, including the popular character, the captain of the Devil Bats, Musashi “Hiruma” Youichi, who uses his cunning tactics to deceive superhuman opponents with his ordinary physical abilities.

If you’re looking for an exciting sports anime with excellent character development and thrilling matches, Eyeshield 21 is a must-watch. The quirky and memorable characters make it even more enjoyable.

22nd place: Toriko

This work depicts the adventures of the protagonist Toriko, who travels the world searching for ingredients for gourmet cuisine, and the cook Komatsu. It is based on the manga of the same name, which was serialized from 2008 to 2016.

The story takes place in a world where gourmet food has become a trend and unknown ingredients are in demand. So when a request for a dish using rare ingredients comes to the restaurant where Komatsu works, he turns to the gourmet hunter Toriko, who is said to be able to procure any element. Komatsu accompanies Toriko on the quest for the ingredient, and their journey to complete Toriko’s “full course of life” begins.

The unique work combines adventure, battles, and cooking with a world inhabited by creatures that serve as ingredients and dangerous environments.

The battles with the monsters that become ingredients, as well as the cooking, are the focus of the story. The monsters have exciting designs, and the battle scenes become more intense as the capture level increases, making them a must-see. The dishes featured in the series look very delicious, so be careful when watching at certain times!

23rd place: Dragon Quest: The Adventure of Dai

©三条陸、稲田浩司/集英社・ダイの大冒険製作委員会・テレビ東京 ©SQUARE ENIX CO., LTD.

Dragon Quest: The Adventure of Dai is a classic fantasy work born from the world of the popular RPG “Dragon Quest.” There are two anime adaptations: the 1991 version and the 2020 version.

Dai, a boy who grew up as the only human on an island inhabited by numerous monsters, learns of the resurrection of the Demon King. Dai becomes a disciple of the hero Avan to restore peace to the world. Along with Avan’s other students, Pop and the princess of the Papnica Kingdom, Leona, Dai’s great adventure begins.

The traditional world of swords and magic has become surprisingly rare in recent years. However, this anime is highly recommended for those who want to watch a good old-fashioned adventure. The 2020 version also features monsters not appearing in the 1991 version, so even experienced fans can enjoy it.

What’s particularly recommended about this anime is that it features the spells from the “Dragon Quest” game and introduces original bits created for the anime. This makes it a work that both those who have played the game and those who haven’t can enjoy!

24th place: Food Wars

This is an anime based on the manga of the same name, which depicts the gourmet battles of students aiming to become top-class chefs. The anime has been produced since 2015, and the 5th season will be broadcast by 2020.

At the prestigious cooking school “Totsuki Culinary Academy,” which selects students strictly through entrance exams and produces top-class chefs, many come from families related to famous restaurants or the food industry. However, the protagonist, Soma Yukihira, who comes from a small family-owned diner, enrolls in the academy.

Set in an unusual stage of a cooking school, this anime depicts the dish-by-dish descriptions of cooking battles between students and the dishes beautifully created for exams. In addition, various cooking techniques appear so viewers can learn about cooking.

While this anime has cooking as its central theme, it is a solid battle anime with exciting matches and clear winners and losers in the “food wars” depicted in the show. Each character has their own preferred cooking methods!

25th place: World Trigger

©葦原大介/集英社・テレビ朝日・東映アニメーション

The World Trigger is an exciting battle anime with 73 episodes. After the first season’s 73 episodes were broadcast, the third season is airing as of 2022.

The main character, Shuichi, is a middle school student who works as a C-rank member of Border, a border defence organization that exterminates Neighbors, beings that appear from a gateway to another world. One day, Shuichi finds out that his new transfer student, Yuma, is a Neighbor who came through the gate, and he is tasked with monitoring Yuma.

Although it may seem like a typical story of humans versus monsters from another world, it is a highly intricate team battle anime emphasizing intelligence and strategy. It is recommended for those who enjoy battle-centric anime and want to experience the smartness of the characters.

While the central theme is the battle against the Neighbors, the fighting between Border members using their Triggers is also highly depicted. In addition, the Rank Wars, in which teams with different weapon characteristics develop their strategies, are a must-see!

26th place: Blue Exorcist

(c)加藤和恵/集英社・「青の祓魔師」製作委員会

Blue Exorcist became famous thanks to the anime adaptation, which increased the initial publication of the original manga by seven times in less than a year. The original manga is serialized in “Jump Square.”

The protagonist Rin Okumura and his younger brother Yukio lived in a monastery. However, one day Rin learns that he is the son of Satan, the king of demons.

After Rin’s foster father, Shiro Fujimoto, is killed by Satan because of his fault, Rin becomes an exorcist and attends the True Cross Academy. However, the teacher who appears is his twin brother, Yukio.

The characters’ worries and conflicts are realistic, and the psychological depictions are thorough. It is a masterpiece that can be recommended as a battle anime without complaint!

Recommended point: This work has a shocking start and is a big attraction with its elaborate story and foreshadowing. The dark atmosphere, including the protagonist’s situation, is intense, making it a recommended work for those who want to see powerful battle scenes.

27th place: Kuroko’s Basketball

© 藤巻忠俊/集英社・黒子のバスケ製作委員会 ©「黒子のバスケ」アニメ10周年プロジェクト

Kuroko’s Basketball is a successful basketball anime that emerged in the shadow of “Slam Dunk,” the iconic basketball manga that defined Jump’s basketball genre.

The anime features the story of Kuroko Tetsuya, the “Phantom Sixth Man” of the “Generation of Miracles” – a group of prodigious middle school basketball players. Kuroko joins the basketball team of Seirin High School, where he teams up with Kagami Taiga, a talented American-Japanese freshman, to take on the other members of the “Generation of Miracles” who play for rival schools.

With intense matches and a cast of distinct characters, Kuroko’s Basketball is a must-see sports anime that fans will surely enjoy.

Recommended for fans looking for an anime with unique abilities and a thrilling story, Kuroko’s Basketball is a basketball anime that offers exciting battles between former teammates and new partners.

28th place: Platinum End

©︎大場つぐみ・小畑健/集英社・プラチナエンド製作委員会

Platinum End is a work created by Tsugumi Ohba and Takeshi Obata duo following their success with Death Note and Bakuman. This anime, which showcases angels and happiness in the signature style of Ohba, was adapted into an anime series from 2021 to 2022.

Mirai Kakehashi, who had attempted suicide due to a tragic home environment, is saved by the angel Nasse just in time. Mirai learns that he has been chosen as one of thirteen candidates for the position of God and has been granted the powers of an angel. The story then unfolds with a death game among the candidates to determine who is most worthy of becoming a god.

All of the candidates for God have experienced extreme despair and hopelessness, leading them to make decisions that might make viewers question the meaning of happiness. This anime is recommended for those who enjoy thought-provoking works.

One of the strengths of this anime is the numerous thought-provoking elements included, which is not surprising given Ohba’s involvement. Additionally, as a rare death game anime within the Jump universe, it is particularly recommended for those interested in this subgenre.

29th place: Seraph of the End

©鏡貴也・山本ヤマト・降矢大輔/集英社・終わりのセラフ製作委員会

Seraph of the End, based on the manga of the same name serialized in “Jump Square,” is a famous work that has been adapted into various media, including novels, stage plays, and games.

The story takes place in a world where humans are kept alive by providing blood to vampires. In this world, only Yuichiro retains hope and tries to escape from the vampires. However, during his escape, he loses his other friends, and his essential friend Mikaela is killed by the vampires.

The only survivor, Yuichiro, joins the vampire extermination unit, but Mikaela turns out to be on the vampire side…

This bittersweet dark fantasy has an attractive, elaborate world. However, as many parts cannot be understood from only the first season, it is recommended to watch the second season as well.

Here’s what’s recommended! This work depicts the struggle between overpowering vampires and humans who devise tactics. The simple battle scenes are also powerful, and the world’s mystery is enjoyable!

30th place: Nisekoi

©古味直志/集英社・アニプレックス・MBS

The popular anime Nisekoi, which gained popularity as a typical romantic comedy, is based on a manga series that boasts the most extended serialization period and volume count for a romantic comedy in “Weekly Shonen Jump” magazine.

Raku Ichijo is a typical high school student who cherishes a pendant he received from a girl he promised to marry ten years ago. However, he pretends to be in a relationship with Chitoge Kirisaki, who transfers to his class by chance. Despite being the least compatible couple, it turns out that Chitoge might be the girl he promised to marry…!?

This work has received high praise as an orthodox romantic comedy. The heroines surrounding the main character are charming, and you’ll want to shout, “I wish I could have had such a youth!”

As a romantic comedy manga series serialized in a boys’ magazine, this anime has a harem element with many charming heroines. It also has a mystery element with intertwined pasts, and you won’t want to miss who Raku chooses in the end!

31st place: Sket Dance

©篠原健太/集英社・開盟学園生活支援部・テレビ東京

This anime is highly recommended as a school anime based on Sket Dance, the representative work and debut series of Kenjiro Hata, who has produced numerous masterpieces.

The Sket Dan is a school life support club at Kaimei High School, led by Bossun, the least flashy but the leader, Himeko, a former delinquent, and Switch, who communicates via a computer. These three members rush to help students in need today, just as they always have.

This anime portrays the interactions between the Sket Dan members and other characters, primarily treated as a handyperson service. It is a work that condenses the charm of a school anime, such as “gag,” “mystery-solving,” “romance,” and “touching” moments.

What is recommended about this anime is its human drama, including the past of the three main characters, and its hilarious comedy. After watching this anime, you’ll indeed find yourself becoming fond of Bossun, the unassuming protagonist

32nd place: Shaman King

©武井宏之・講談社/SHAMAN KING Project.

The manga Shaman King by Hiroyuki Takei is about a young shaman’s battles and growth. The anime has two versions, the 2001 version and the 2021 version, with the latter being the first to adapt the series entirely. Additionally, a sequel anime is being produced, focusing on the main character’s son.

Yoh Asakura, born into a shaman family, travels to Tokyo to participate in the Shaman Fight, which occurs once every 500 years. Together with his friends Manta Oyamada and his fiancée Anna Kyoyama, Yoh fights to become the Shaman King.

The series features a variety of possession techniques and Over Souls that are unimaginable by the term “spiritual abilities.” Cool beauty Anna, played by Megumi Hayashibara, is also a series highlight.

Recommended for shonen manga fans, this series depicts the intense battles of shamans who fight using the abilities of the spirits they possess. The anime has exciting settings, such as the “Over-Soul” technique, in which shades include objects and the “furyoku” power level system.

33rd place: Kochira Katsushika-ku Kameari Kōen-mae Hashutsujo

The long-running manga series Kochira Katsushika-ku Kameari Kōen-Mae Hashutsujo is a representative work of Japan, comprising 201 volumes. The anime adaptation aired from 1996 to 2016, with approximately 350 episodes.

The protagonist, Kankichi Ryotsu, is an unconventional police officer at the Kameari police box. The anime is a slapstick comedy filled with Ryotsu’s powerful, quirky personality and colourful characters. However, as it aired in the 7 pm time slot, Ryotsu’s outrageousness and long-winded explanations are toned down for a broader audience to enjoy.

Although the series primarily focuses on comedy, there are occasional heartwarming moments, such as interactions between Ryotsu and his superior, Chief Ohara. In addition, a collaboration episode between “Kochikame” and another comedy manga series, “Gintama,” was also produced in episode 74 of the last series.

Recommended for fans of human comedy and slapstick, the anime features Ryotsu, a police officer who doesn’t follow the rules and constantly finds himself in absurd situations. It’s a national comedy anime loved by many.

34th place: To Love-Ru

© Marvelous Inc. © HONEY PARADE GAMES Inc.

To Love-Ru is a sci-fi romantic comedy anime based on the manga of the same name serialized in “Weekly Shonen Jump.”

The protagonist, Rito Yuki, is a typical high school boy with a crush on a classmate. One day, the princess of the planet Deviluke, Lala Satalin Deviluke, who has run away from her home after becoming fed up with an arranged marriage, appears before Rito. This encounter leads Rito into a world of the extraordinary.

The manga To Love-Ru, on which the anime is based, is well-known for pushing the boundaries of “Jump” magazine’s censorship rules, making it a favourite among rebellious teenage readers.

What makes the anime version of To Love-Ru appealing is not just the fanservice scenes but also its well-crafted romantic comedy storyline. If you enjoy romantic comedies, you will surely enjoy this anime!

35th place: The Promised Neverland

©白井カイウ・出水ぽすか/集英社 ©2020 映画「約束のネバーランド」製作委員会

The Promised Neverland, a survival story of brave boys and girls depicted in 20 volumes, has been adapted into a two-season anime series. This dark fantasy work became a hot topic due to the stark contrast between the innocent smiles of the children and the heavy reality they bear.

Emma and her friends, who live peacefully in an orphanage, discover that one day the children are shipped as meat and sold to creatures called “demons.” Learning that the orphanage is a human breeding ground, Emma and her friends muster their wisdom and courage to aim for the outside world in search of a safe place to live.

In the second season, some significant episodes and characters were cut, resulting in a slightly rushed plot. However, if you watch the anime to confirm the main story before reading the original work, you can enjoy The Promised Neverland World twice!

Although this work received mixed reviews due to the cutting of essential scenes from the original, the suspense with the same tension as the original is depicted well. It is especially recommended for those who want to see an adventure of children in an unknown world!

36th place: The God of Poverty Is!

The God of Poverty Is! is a comedy anime with many parody elements, focusing on Jump comics.

The story begins when the poverty god, Momiji, visits Sakura Ichiko, a super lucky intelligent, athletic, beautiful, and busty girl who has never faced any hardships. However, with Momiji’s arrival, Ichiko’s life changes dramatically.

The central characters, Ichiko and Momiji, have complex personalities full of hilarious elements. However, the show is not just about comedy but also features a well-developed story and occasional heartwarming scenes, making it an attractive series.

They are recommended for those who enjoy the banter and contrast between the main characters, Ichiko and Momiji. Both characters are well-developed, and their evolving relationship is worth attention to!

37th place: The Disastrous Life of Saiki K

©麻生周一/集英社・PK学園F

The anime The Disastrous Life of Saiki K is based on a popular gag manga series serialized in “Weekly Shonen Jump.” A live-action movie based on the manga was released in 2017.

The protagonist, Saiki Kusuo, has psychic powers but tries to live everyday life and hide them from those around him. However, he often gets caught up with the ultimate idiot Nendo, the chuunibyou Hairo, and the painfully prevalent Kokomi and is forced to use his powers.

This is a great anime to watch when you don’t want to overthink. You can’t help but laugh at the temperature difference between the cool Kusuo and the overly unique characters.

One of the best things about this anime is Kusuo’s ultimate psychic powers, which could make him the strongest even in a battle with all anime characters. However, the other characters are so rich and distinctive that Kusuo often plays the straight-man role in most episodes!

38th place: Blood Blockade Battlefront

Blood Blockade Battlefront is an anime based on the manga of the same name serialized in “Jump Square,” which features members of a secret society who activate their superpowers after shouting their technique names, making it a perfect fit for fans of chuunibyou (delusions of grandeur) anime.

The story takes place in a location once known as New York, where the boundaries between the human and supernatural worlds overlap, resulting in everyday occurrences of paranormal phenomena and making it a dangerous area. To protect the precarious balance of this world, the secret society known as Libra operates in secret, and a young man named Leonardo with supernatural powers appears.

With its setting of supernatural battles, this anime is a must-see for fans of the genre, and the diverse fighting styles of the characters will keep you on the edge of your seat.

The characters are captivating, and you’ll be hooked on their personalities. The action scenes utilize their powers and are dazzling and perfect for fans of self-contained, one-episode anime.

39th place: Bobobo-bo Bo-bobo

©澤井啓夫/集英社・東映アニメーション

The anime Bobobo-bo Bo-bobo is based on a manga of the same name that was serialized from 2001 to 2007. It aired from 2003 to 2005 and became famous for its unique characters and humour.

The story takes place on Earth in the year 300X, which the Maruhage Empire rules. The empire’s organization, the Hair Hunt Troop, threatens peace by pulling people’s hair out in a “hair hunt.” Bobobo-bo Bo-bobo, a master of the Fist of the Nose Hair, meets allies on his journey to fight against the Hair Hunt Troop and the empire.

While the main focus is battling against the Empire and Hair Hunt Troop, it is not your typical battle anime. Instead, the humour makes it unique and enjoyable for those who like wacky comedy.

The setting is a typical battle anime, but the content is wacky humour. It has many jokes and black comedy that may leave some viewers behind, but it’s recommended for those who want to watch a comedy anime with a punch!

40th place: Sexy Commando Gaiden: Sugoi yo!! Masaru-san

This is an anime adaptation of the manga Sexy Commando Gaiden: Sugoi yo!! Masaru-san, which was serialized in Weekly Shonen Jump from 1995 to 1997. The surreal humour of the show is addictive and charming.

The protagonist, Masaru Hananakajima, is a master of the martial art “Sexy Commando.” The story revolves around him and the unique members of the Sexy Commando club as they cause mayhem.

The show includes parodies of the popular manga and toys from when it was made so that some viewers may feel nostalgic. It is recommended for fans of short and wacky comedy anime.

The unique perspective and nonsensical humour of this show are its standout features. Dive into the weird world of the “Gaiden” or “side story” without the presence of a “main story” and experience the laughter for yourself!

Friendship, effort, and victory are the motto!

Jump anime features a collection of masterpieces that anyone can enjoy. The works introduced this time are especially popular and are of high quality that you won’t regret watching.

Please enjoy Jump’s works that embody the three principles of “friendship, effort, and victory.”

Living in Japan, I work as an Editor/Writer at 1ScreenMagazine. Self proclaimed King of the Funny.

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