Anime offers a diverse range of genres and storytelling styles, from intense action to deep emotional drama. Long-running anime series often provide more than just entertainment; they offer immersive worlds, character growth, and intricate plots that unfold over many episodes. Here are 10 of the best long-running anime series that will keep you hooked for hours on end.
1. Naruto: The Ninja Legacy
Available on Crunchyroll
Naruto follows the journey of Naruto Uzumaki, an orphaned boy with a dream of becoming the greatest ninja in his village, despite being treated like an outcast. Throughout the series, viewers watch Naruto’s transformation from a mischievous, lone fighter to a beloved leader. Alongside his friends and rivals, Naruto faces life-changing battles, powerful enemies, and intense challenges. The themes of friendship, perseverance, and the pursuit of dreams make Naruto a timeless classic.
Naruto
TV-PG
Action, Adventure
Release Date: October 3, 2002
Creator: Masashi Kishimoto
Number of Episodes: 220 Episodes
2. Bleach: The Soul Reaper Chronicles
Available on Crunchyroll
Bleach is an anime that blends supernatural elements with thrilling battles and memorable characters. The story follows Ichigo Kurosaki, a teenager who becomes a Soul Reaper, tasked with protecting the world from evil spirits. As Ichigo journeys through the Soul Society and faces powerful enemies like the Arrancar, his growth as a fighter and a leader becomes central to the plot. Bleach offers a mix of intense action, character development, and supernatural mysteries that continue to captivate its fanbase.
Bleach
TV-14
Action, Supernatural
Release Date: October 5, 2004
Creator: Tite Kubo
Number of Episodes: 366 Episodes
3. One Piece: The Pirate Adventure of a Lifetime
Available on Crunchyroll
One Piece is a pirate adventure that has taken the anime world by storm. The series follows Monkey D. Luffy, a boy with the ability to stretch his body like rubber, on his quest to find the legendary treasure known as the One Piece and become the King of the Pirates. With a crew of loyal friends, Luffy sails across dangerous seas, seeking treasure and uncovering secrets of the world. The series is known for its unique characters, epic battles, and an evolving storyline filled with emotion and humor. One Piece continues to be a global sensation and one of the longest-running anime series in history.
One Piece
TV-PG
Action, Adventure
Release Date: October 20, 1999
Creator: Eiichiro Oda
Number of Episodes: 1070+ Episodes (and counting)
4. Dragon Ball Z: The Legendary Saiyan Saga
Available on Crunchyroll
Dragon Ball Z is one of the most iconic anime series of all time, following the adventures of Goku, a Saiyan warrior who defends Earth from powerful enemies. The series is known for its high-energy battles, incredible transformations, and unforgettable characters. From the first fight with Raditz to the epic battles with Frieza, Cell, and Majin Buu, Dragon Ball Z delivers intense action and powerful storytelling. Goku’s journey, along with his friends, as they protect the universe, continues to inspire and entertain fans worldwide.
Dragon Ball Z
TV-PG
Action, Adventure, Fantasy
Release Date: April 26, 1989
Creator: Akira Toriyama
Number of Episodes: 291 Episodes
5. Detective Conan: Solving Mysteries Over Time
Available on Crunchyroll
Detective Conan (also known as Case Closed) follows Shinichi Kudo, a brilliant high school detective who is transformed into a child after being poisoned. Adopting the alias Conan Edogawa, he continues to solve complex mysteries while trying to find a cure. The series features countless whodunnit cases, from murders to intricate conspiracies. With its long-running narrative and clever plot twists, Detective Conan has remained a fan favorite for over two decades.
Detective Conan
TV-PG
Mystery, Crime, Drama
Release Date: January 8, 1996
Creator: Gosho Aoyama
Number of Episodes: 1100+ Episodes
6. Fairy Tail: Magic and Adventure Await
Available on Crunchyroll
Fairy Tail introduces viewers to a world of magic, guilds, and powerful wizards. The story follows Natsu Dragneel and his friends in the Fairy Tail guild, as they go on thrilling missions to protect their world from dark forces. From epic battles to emotional character arcs, Fairy Tail is a series that balances action, humor, and heart. The close-knit friendships among the guild members, their dedication to their ideals, and their fight to protect the people they care about make Fairy Tail a beloved series for many.
Fairy Tail
TV-PG
Action, Adventure, Fantasy
Release Date: October 12, 2009
Creator: Hiro Mashima
Number of Episodes: 328 Episodes
7. Hunter x Hunter: The Ultimate Test of Will
Available on Crunchyroll
Hunter x Hunter follows Gon Freecss, a boy who aims to find his father and become a Hunter, someone who undertakes dangerous missions worldwide. Along the way, Gon meets friends who help him grow, face terrifying foes, and embark on an incredible adventure. The series is known for its detailed world-building, innovative battle system, and deep character development. Hunter x Hunter mixes adventure with psychological depth, making it an unforgettable anime experience.
Hunter x Hunter
TV-PG
Action, Adventure, Fantasy
Release Date: October 2, 2011
Creator: Yoshihiro Togashi
Number of Episodes: 148 Episodes
8. Yu Yu Hakusho: Spirit Detective Chronicles
Available on Crunchyroll
Yu Yu Hakusho tells the story of Yusuke Urameshi, a teenage delinquent who dies while saving a child from a car accident. He is given a second chance at life after being recruited as a Spirit Detective, tasked with protecting the human world from supernatural threats. The series mixes martial arts battles with themes of friendship and personal growth. Yu Yu Hakusho remains one of the most beloved series in anime history, thanks to its unforgettable characters and impactful storylines.
Yu Yu Hakusho
TV-PG
Action, Supernatural
Release Date: October 10, 1992
Creator: Yoshihiro Togashi
Number of Episodes: 112 Episodes
9. Bleach: Thousand-Year Blood War Saga
Available on Hulu
The Thousand-Year Blood War arc, the latest chapter of Bleach, reintroduces Ichigo and his allies to an even more dangerous threat in the form of the Quincy, an ancient enemy of the Soul Reapers. As Ichigo’s past and heritage come to light, new battles, alliances, and secrets unfold, raising the stakes for everyone involved. The intense action sequences and complex characters in this arc make it a must-watch for fans of the Bleach universe.
Bleach: Thousand-Year Blood War
TV-14
Action, Supernatural
Release Date: October 10, 2022
Creator: Tite Kubo
Number of Episodes: Ongoing
10. Inuyasha: Time-Traveling Romance and Adventure
Available on Crunchyroll
Inuyasha blends romance, action, and fantasy as it follows Kagome Higurashi, a modern-day high school student, who is transported to the Sengoku period in Japan. There, she meets Inuyasha, a half-demon, and together they seek to collect the shards of the Shikon Jewel. As they fight powerful enemies and grow closer, the series mixes drama with mythological elements. Inuyasha continues to be a nostalgic favorite for anime fans, with its compelling characters and action-packed adventure.
Inuyasha
TV-PG
Action, Adventure, Fantasy
Release Date: October 16, 2000
Creator: Rumiko Takahashi
Number of Episodes: 167 Episodes
These 10 long-running anime series offer some of the most compelling stories and unforgettable characters in the medium. Whether you’re looking for action, adventure, mystery, or romance, these series will keep you entertained for hours as they unfold their captivating narratives.
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