Top 25 Best Anime Arcs Of All Time
25. Coalition Arc
Anime: Kingdom
The arc which takes the last spot is the Coalition invasion arc. This covers the story of the war against Qin by an alliance force of all other states except Qi. The arc can be considered to have two parts Battle of Kanyou pass and Battle of Sai.
Every character on both sides was exceptional in the arc. The action scenes, the tactics behind the war, and the brilliant characters all make this arc an epic one. The battle of Kanyou is legendary but the battle of Sai makes this arc one of the greatest arcs. This arc is one of the best in Manga history but the anime adaptation isn’t the best hence it takes a low spot.
I have ranked it in the third spot in the best manga arcs of all time.
Check – Best Kingdom Arcs Ranked Here
24. Arc 4: The Everlasting Contract
Anime: Re: Zero
This part of the series covers Subaru’s character after the loss of Rem and his role in the Trials of the Sanctuary where Witch of Greed is the examiner. Re: Zero is one of the better Isekai series and this arc is the best arc from it. The animation, voice acting, the story, character moments in this arc are amazing.
23. Keiji Mogami arc
Anime: Mob Psycho 100
Keiji Mogami arc is one of the darker arcs in Mob Psycho 100. Mob and Reigen encounters Mogami, a former psychic. Animation was on point and perfectly conveyed the messaging behind this arc. The arc had perfect character moment for Mob who is one of the best Overpowered Main Character.
22. Farewell Shinsengumi Arc
Anime: Gintama
Farewell Shinsengumi arc happens after Shogun is assassinated and covers the consequences of that. Kondo and Katsura are jailed while Shinshengumi and Yorozuya try to save them which leads to a battle against Mimawarigumi and later against Naraku.
This arc had the second most shocking revelation in the series which is that Shoyou is alive. Everything is just perfect. Fights, character moments, and the revelation are some of the best Gintama has provided. Sasaki’s character conclusion is one of the most emotional in the series and it showed Sorachi’s genius in character writing.
21. Jailbreak Arc
Anime: Promised Neverland
This is the first arc in the anime and still remains one of the best introductory arcs to an anime. Norman, Emma, and Ray live at the Grace Field House, where they learn that the orphanage is essentially a human farm where the demons are fed. Later, they intend to join the other youngsters in escaping the orphanage and engaging in a battle of wits with Isabella.
The introductory arc in Promised Neverland is one of the best starting arcs in Shonen I have watched. Anime capsulated the horror tone that Manga provided really well.
20. Dark Tournament Arc
Anime: Yu Yu Hakusho
Yusuke, Hiei, Kuwabara, Kurama, and Genkai participate in a dark tournament arranged by selfish humans and attended by demons. The squad defeated four other teams before meeting Team Toguro in the final. Before facing Togoro’s team, they face Team Rokuyukai, Team Ichigaki, Team Masho in the quarterfinals, and Uraotogi in the semifinals.
Each battle is extremely difficult to win. Furthermore, all of the battles are innovative and creative. Dark Tournament arc managed to have stakes that typical tournament arcs lack usually. It set the bar high for the tournament arcs in Anime. Without a doubt, this is one of the best tournament arcs in anime history.
Check – Best Yu Yu Hakusho Arcs Ranked Here
19. Namek Saga
Anime: Dragon Ball Z
Namek Saga is part of the series Dragon Ball written by Toriyama. This arc follows Bulma, Krillin, Gohan, and later Goku as they travel to the planet Namek to face the Ginyu force. Following the annihilation of the Ginyu Force, the long-awaited clash between Goku and Frieza begins. In this storyline, Goku transforms into the legendary Super Saiyan.
This arc embodies the things that are now referred to as cliches by fans. This arc’s impact on the genre is unrivaled. It isn’t hyperbole to argue that the iconic Super Saiyan transformation shattered the anime stereotype and made it mainstream. Seeing Goku in Super Saiyan was the greatest thing ever for me as a kid and it is the same for many in that time.
18. One Punch Man First Season
Anime: One Punch Man
Saitama is the strongest in the world and his life is quite boring as a result of that. His life as a hero where he meets various villains and also takes Genos as his disciple is shown.
This isn’t technically an arc but an entire season but the first season of One Punch Man deserves a spot here. OPM’s first season is one of the best anime adaptations ever. The animation is really great while the story is one of the most unique ones out there.
17. Chunin Exams arc
Anime: Naruto
Chunin Exams arc is the second arc in Naruto, written by Kishimoto. This arc depicts the Chunin Exams, in which Genins from several villages compete to become Chunin. The competition begins with a written test, then followed by surviving the Forest of Death, and finally knockout battles between survivors. Orochimaru appears and places a curse on Sasuke. Naruto vs Kiba, Naruto vs Neji, Lee vs Gaara, and Sasuke vs Gaara are some of the fights we see in this arc.
Like I said before, anime has a problem with tournament arcs. Since the stakes aren’t high in tournaments, the plot can be plodding and uninteresting. But here, with the introduction of foreign parties, tensions and stakes are high.
Overall, Chunin exams is my favorite tournament arc in all of the anime with only Yu Yu Hakusho’s Dark tournament arc coming close.
Check – Best Naruto Arcs Ranked Here
16. Promised Day Arc
Anime: Fullmetal Alchemist Brotherhood
This arc shows the coming time of the long-awaited culmination of Father’s 400-year plan. The plan involves the Human sacrifices, Amestris, the Philosopher’stone, and the Transmutation circle going through the entire nation. Father does gain the power of God for a brief moment before being beaten by Edward. Edward also sacrifices his Alchemy to retrieve Alphonse’s body.
The ending for a Shonen series is tough to nail but FMAB does it perfectly. Edward’s character conclusion is perfectly fitting to the theme of the series. Also, character conclusion for people like Greed, Mustang, Sacr, King Bradley, etc is also perfect.
15. Zero Requiem Arc
Anime: Code Geass
Code Geass doesn’t follow the traditional arc format but the final segment is too great to not include here. Zero Requiem is a plan orchestrated by Lelouch to end all war and to usher an age of peace.
Code Geass has one of the greatest anime conclusion to an anime ever. This final arc makes Lelouch one of the best protagonists ever.
14. Golden Age Arc
Anime: Berserk
This arc follows Guts from childhood until the events of the Eclipse. Guts joins Griffith’s Band of the Falcon after Griffith defeats him. Later on, they become well-known as a result of their achievements. Griffith is getting closer to attaining his dream of building an empire. After hearing about Griffith’s principles, Guts decides to leave the group and strives to be on par with him.
Griffith is defeated by Guts, who then leaves the band. Griffith, frustrated, makes a mistake and sleeps with Charlotte, resulting in his imprisonment. Guts rejoined the group to save Griffith, but Griffith is now paralyzed as a result of his physical and emotional torment.
Griffith plans to commit suicide but discovers his Behelit, which summons the God Hands. Griffith accepts their offer to join the God Hand at the expense of the rest of the Band. Only Guts and Casca, with the help of Skull Knight, escape the ordeal, while the others die horribly.
The journey of Guts and Griffith is one of the best character writing one will ever experience. There’s a reason Guts and Griffith are regarded as two of the best protagonists and antagonists of all time. I ranked it first in the best Manga arcs ever but its anime adaptation doesn’t fully capture the beauty of the source material. But the story is just too great and it finds a place in this list.
Check – Best Berserk Arcs Ranked Here
13. Diamond Is Unbreakable
Anime: Jojo’s Bizarre Adventures
Diamond is Unbreakable is the fourth part of the series Jojo’s Bizarre Adventures. This part follows Josuke and his pals as they search the quiet town of Morioh for a mystical bow and arrow that provides people dangerous Stand abilities. Later, it becomes a mystery about discovering Kira, a serial killer.
Magical powers in a normally quiet suburban town is a fascinating setting that is underused. In addition to that, a serial killer who wants to live a quiet life in that setting makes this arc one of the best in Shonen.
12. War Arc/Season 1
Anime: Vinland Saga
War arc is the first arc of Vinland Saga and only arc with an anime adaptation. This arc follows Thorfinn journey as he vowed to avenge his father’s death by killing Askeladd. But both of them find themselves in a war with a dangerous enemy hunting them down and a royal prince to protect.
Vindland Saga first arc is one of the best anime adaptation for a well received dark Seinen series. Anime managed to capture the story that Yukimura was trying to tell in this arc.
11. L Arc
Anime: Death Note
This arc refers to the first segment of Death Note since the series doesn’t follow an arc story structure. This arc focuses on a cat and mouse battle of wits between Kira and L. Kira is a 17-year-old Light Yagami who gets hold of Death Note by which you can kill characters by writing a person’s name on them. L is a detective seeking to catch Kira.
The start of Death Note is great and one of the main reasons Death Note still remains the best entry point to anime for newcomers. There is something special about two characters getting tangled in a battle of wits.
10. Soul Society Arc
Anime: Bleach
The story is around Rukia’s capture at the hands of the Soul Society. We see Ichigo and the others have to face increasingly bigger threats as the arc progresses in pursuit of Rukia. Along with the structure of Soul Society with its military force: Soul Reapers. There are many new characters and is essentially the introduction to Bleach’s world.
The arc does wonders for Bleach’s world-building. Furthermore, Kubo has Ichigo and the company progressively increases in strength until meeting their goal by having them encounter progressively harder opponents. Far from convenient, this is explained by the end of the arc. Each character’s agency makes it so there’s always something happening in the arc independent of Ichigo and his friends. Which adds realism to the environment. And the plot escalates in a believable manner. Full of mystery, struggle, drive, comradely, and much more; Soul Society stands as one of the best arcs in shonen.
9. Shogun Assassination Arc
Anime: Gintama
Shogun Assassination arc is one of the serious arcs in Gintama. The Protagonist’s side must safeguard Shogun from an assassination plot that has been set in motion. After numerous episodes of setup, Gintoki finally fights Takasugi in this arc amidst a war that brings together various forces.
This arc isn’t groundbreaking in terms of narrative, but the emotional peaks it contains are nothing short of extraordinary. The fight between Gintoki and Takasugi is one of the finest in the medium. Most people rate episode 305 as one of the greatest anime episodes of all time. It’s tough to put into words, yet it’s something that can only be felt. Gintama is a one-of-a-kind experience, and Shogun Assassination demonstrates why.
Check – Best Arcs In Gintama Ranked here
8. Pain’s Assault Arc
Anime: Naruto
Pain’s Assault arc is the second entry here from the Naruto franchise. This arc depicts the Pain’s invasion of Konoha in order to seize Naruto’s Nine-Tails. Pain invades the town and kills the vast majority of the country as Naruto is practicing at Mount Myoboku. Naruto fights Pain and transforms into his Nine-Tails form out of desperation. Naruto beats all versions of Pain, meets Nagato in person, and proves that he is the child of prophecy as Jiraiya dreamed.
Prophecies aren’t one of my favorite types of tropes. However, this arc adds an intriguing twist to it by having two separate prophecized chosen ones, keeping the trope mysterious. Despite the fact that Pain was the stronger individual, Naruto defeats Nagato ideologically. With everyone returning back to life, the finale is a little underwhelming. Pain’s invasion should have resulted in repercussions. However, this is a small quibble; ultimately, this is one of the best anime arcs ever.
Check – Best Naruto Arcs Ranked Here
7. Yorknew City Arc
Anime: Hunter X Hunter
Yorknew City arc is from the series Hunter X Hunter written by Togashi. This story is set in Yorknew, where Gon, Killua, Leorio, and Kurapika had agreed to meet. The Phantom Troupe is presented, and they rob the auction house of everything. Shadow Beasts make an attempt to halt them, but they are defeated. Kurapika, on the other hand, catches Uvogin and subsequently fights him, resulting in Uvogin’s death. Troupe captures Gon and Killua, whilst Kurapika captures Chrollo. Later on, it turns into a game of cat and mouse, with each side trying to outsmart the other.
Yorknew City Arc is in excellent condition and has no flaws. The arc is fast-paced, non-linear, and unpredictable, and the use of Nen as a power source was a joy to behold. Phantom Troupes are fascinating since each figure has its own distinct personality. Given that none of the Phantom Troupes have a detailed genesis story, the interaction between them is incredible. It is without a doubt one of the best anime arcs of all time.
Check – Best Hunter X Hunter Arcs Ranked Here
6. Spring High Preliminary Arc
Anime: Haikyuu!
Spring High Preliminary arc corresponds the season 3 of the anime. This arc shows the match between Karasuno and Shiratorizawa in the finals of the Spring High Preliminary Arc. Both teams meet in the final and Karasuno has to beat a team that has an Under-19 Japan National Volleyball team member with them.
Sports series don’t get as much appreciation as they should and this arc is a perfect example of it. It is my favorite arc from any new generation series. Every episode in this season was perfect with each character having great moments. It is a true David vs Goliath story with amazing emotional peaks that truly exemplifies why we love the Shonen genre.
5. Ruhenheim Arc
Anime: Monster
Ruhenheim is the final arc of the manga series, Monster written by Naoki Urasawa. Ruhenheim may not be defined as an arc in the traditional sense as Monster as a whole doesn’t fit the arc format but the final segment of Monster is just too good so I wanted to include it here.
The arc has a perfect conclusion for every character, and the thematic conclusion is also great. Johan is one of the greatest antagonists in Anime and these make this one of the greatest in Anime.
4. Return To Shiganshina Arc
Anime: Attack On Titan
Return To Shiganshina Arc is from the series Attack On Titan written by Hajime Isayama. The story of the Survey Corps’ latest journey to Shiganshina to reclaim the lost area is told in this arc. To retake the territory, they had to confront Beast Titan, Colossal Titan, and the Armored Titan. Erwin must give up his life in order for Levi to face Beast Titan. Armin eats Colossal Titan to become the Colossal Titan himself after Levi uses the Titan serum on him.
The Eren’s Basement chapters are possibly the most important element of the series. We learn about Grisha, Zeke, Eldian, Marley, and other characters, and most of the world’s mysteries are revealed. This arc is just perfect. The disclosure of the mystery, the world-building, the conclusion of Erwin’s character, the conflict between Zeke and Levi, and the satisfying climax of them finally seeing the Ocean. This arc is flawless in every way, and the surprise reveals are among the best anime experiences ever.
Check – Best Attack On Titan Arcs Ranked Here
3. Enies Lobby Saga
Anime: One Piece
Enies Lobby Saga is an arc from the series One Piece written by Eiichiro Oda. This arc follows Strawhats on Water 7 Island, as the crew falls apart, with Robin and Usopp abandoning the crew and themselves losing to CP0. They later return to Enies Lobby to recapture Robin and fight World Government and CP0.
For both the Strawhats and the audience, this arc is an emotional roller coaster. There are various tragic moments, such as the loss of Going Merry, Usopp’s confrontation with Luffy, Robin’s departure from the gang, and so on. The Strawhats go to great lengths to overcome their foes, and Luffy’s fight is one of the best. Enies Lobby’s emotional peaks are unrivaled. Overall, this is one of the best arcs in the medium.
Check – Best One Piece Arcs Ranked Here
2. Chimera Ant Arc
Anime: Hunter X Hunter
Chimera Ant arc is the second entry from Hunter X Hunter here. This arc depicts the Chimera Ants’ development and eventual ambition for power in the human world. The Ant King Mereum is born after the Queen gives birth to numerous Chimera ants, and three Royal Guards. Kite is dead, but Gon, who is unaware of Kite’s death, holds out hope that Kite will be saved.
Meanwhile, Netero, Morel, Knov, Knuckle, and Shoot join the fight against the ants. Meanwhile, Komugi begins playing Gungi with Mereum, but Mereum is unable to defeat her, and their relationship begins to blossom.
The initial half of the Chimera Ant arc has pacing flaws, as well as a few extraneous plotlines like Phantom Troupe, Palm’s date, and so on. However, the arc’s payoffs are among the best in the anime genre. One of the best parallels between antagonist and protagonist in the anime is Mereum’s transition from an emotionless killer to someone who can truly exhibit love for Komugi, and Gon’s path from a happy-go-lucky boy to a monster who can kill someone without remorse.
Check – Best Hunter X Hunter Arcs Ranked Here
1. Marineford Saga
Anime: One Piece
Marineford Saga is the second entry from One Piece here. This story begins with Strawhats’ defeat in Sabaody, after which Luffy embarks on a voyage to save Ace from Impel Down, and then proceeds to the Marineford War. It depicts the long-awaited conflict between the Whitebeard Pirates and the World Government, which erupted as a result of the announcement of Ace’s execution. Luffy joins the fight alongside his Impel Down allies.
The arc is filled with so many important characters that it is amazing that Oda manages to use everyone efficiently. Marineford is one of the best examples of long-term story planning. Mysteries, fights, emotional moments, character moments, and thematic storytelling were on point. This arc’s last stretch of chapters elevates it to be the best anime arc ever.
Check – Best One Piece Arcs Ranked Here
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Comment (1)
Cimera Ant arc ist the best of all time this arc is a Masterpice the Charekters perfect villans perfect animation perfect fights perfect