Top 10 Best Anime Seasons and Sagas

Anime is known for its ability to tell epic stories across multiple seasons or sagas. Some of the most beloved and iconic anime series have had memorable arcs that have captivated audiences for years. From shonen action shows to slice-of-life dramas, anime has given us some of the most compelling and emotionally resonant stories in all of entertainment.

However, it's important to note that the quality of a particular season or saga may vary from the rest of the anime, especially in cases where the series runs for a long time. Some seasons may see a drop in quality, while others may rise to new heights. With that in mind, this list aims to celebrate the best anime seasons and sagas, taking into account their overall impact, storytelling, and popularity.

For maintaining the quality of the list, I want everyone to follow these simple rules---

Voting:
- Vote for the anime seasons/sagas that you think are the best, regardless of personal preferences or popularity.
- Try to eliminate any nostalgia factor as much as possible.
- Don't show favoritism to any specific anime and vote for the bad seasons of that.

Comments:
- Comments can have spoilers, so read them at your own risk.
- When adding comments, try to describe why you like the season/saga.
- Be respectful to others.

Adding Items:
- Only add anime seasons/sagas that are finished.
- Before adding a season/saga, please make sure it truly deserves to be on the list. Check ratings, talk to other fans.
- Follow the naming format as the rest of the items on the list.
- Add an image when you add a new season/saga. The image should be attractive but spoiler-free.

Remixing:
- Read the entire list before remixing it.
- Before starting the remix, read the set of rules again.
- Your list must include at least 9 different anime seasons/sagas. This is for maintaining diversity.

Again, please only add anime seasons/sagas that have finished airing.
The Top Ten
1 Boku No Hero Academia - Season 6

Boku No Hero Academia Season 6 is a landmark moment in anime history, delivering an unforgettable experience that will stay with fans for years to come. This season focuses on the Liberation War arc and the Dark Deku arc, taking the series to a whole new level of intensity and complexity. The Liberation War doesn't let you catch your breath as it keeps delivering epic moments one after another. Heroes and villains face off in jaw-dropping battles that will leave you on the edge of your seat, with characters from both sides dying left and right.

The emotional moments in this season are heart-breaking, leaving viewers shattered and forever changed. The war and its aftermath changed everything, shattering the hero society and leaving no one's life the same. Some of our favorite characters' lives came to an end, while others changed in a way that will never make them feel the same again.

Just when we thought things would slow down after the Liberation War, All For One breaking out of Tartarus elevated the situation to complete chaos. This leads to an epic buildup for what's to come, leaving fans wondering if Boku No Hero Academia can ever top the incredible journey we've just experienced.

What really sets this season apart is the emotional depth that is explored. The Dark Deku arc delves into the psyche of the main character. We see him struggle with overwhelming responsibility and the weight of new revelations. Deku's journey takes a darker turn as he leaves his friends behind and tells his mentor he no longer needs him. We witness the toll this takes on his mental health as he battles his inner demons and confronts the possibility of losing himself to despair.

Boku No Hero Academia Season 6 is a masterpiece, delivering an unforgettable experience that will stay with fans for years to come. From the intense focus on character development and world-building to the mind-blowing plot twists and shocking revelations, this season has everything... more

2 Yu Yu Hakusho - Dark Tournament Saga

The Dark Tournament Saga is a fan-favorite in the Yu Yu Hakusho series, and for good reason. This season showcases some of the best fight scenes in anime history, with each character's unique abilities and personalities shining through. What makes this saga truly special is the emotional weight behind the battles. We see the characters push themselves to their limits, both physically and mentally, as they fight for their own personal reasons. It's a rollercoaster of emotions that leaves viewers on the edge of their seats until the very end.

3 Dragon Ball Z - Namek/Frieza Saga

The Namek Saga of Dragon Ball Z is a legendary moment in anime history that left an indelible mark on the medium. The fight between Goku and Frieza is unforgettable, and Goku's first Super Saiyan transformation is one of the most iconic scenes in anime history. It's hard to overstate just how much of an impact this moment had on fans, and how it changed the anime industry forever.

But the Namek Saga is more than just Goku's epic transformation. It's a story of tyranny, sacrifice, and heroism that takes us deep into the lore of the Dragon Ball universe. The saga explores the backstory of the Saiyans, introducing us to characters like Vegeta and Piccolo, who would become fan favorites. We also see the dark side of Frieza's empire and the lengths he will go to maintain his power.

The saga is full of memorable moments, from the arrival of the Ginyu Force to the epic showdown between Goku and Frieza. It's a masterclass in world-building, expanding the Dragon Ball universe and setting the stage for years of incredible adventures to come. The Namek Saga is a must-watch for any anime fan, whether you're a longtime fan of the series or just getting started.

4 Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion R2 Lelouch of the Rebellion: Premiering in 2006, this anime series is directed by Gorō Taniguchi and written by Ichirō Ōkouchi. The plot centers on Lelouch, a prince who gains the power to control others and seeks to overthrow a totalitarian regime. The show has been highly praised for its complex characters... read more

Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion R2 is a thrilling continuation of the first season, with high stakes and complex plot twists that keep viewers on the edge of their seats. The character development of the main protagonist, Lelouch, is especially notable as he becomes a more nuanced and morally ambiguous figure. The animation is top-notch, with stunning mecha battles and epic scale battles that truly capture the scope of the conflict.

In my humble opinion, this is the best anime season ever. The twists and turns both in story and philosophy were incredible. I was insane for a while after watching this.

5 Clannad: After Story Clannad is based off a visual novel. It follows the story of a high school senior named Tomoya Okazaki, a delinquent who floats through life caring about very little. He hates the town he lives in and his alcoholic father... read more

If you're looking for an emotional rollercoaster, look no further than Clannad: After Story. The second season of this romance-drama anime takes the heart-wrenching story to new heights as the characters struggle to find their way in a world full of tragedy and loss. With beautiful animation, stunning music, and some of the most touching moments in anime history, Clannad: After Story is a must-watch for anyone looking for a heartfelt story that will stay with you long after the credits roll.

6 Hunter x Hunter - Chimera Ant arc

The Chimera Ant Arc is a masterpiece of storytelling, character development, and animation. This arc takes the series to new heights, exploring complex themes of morality, identity, and the human condition. The villains are some of the most fleshed-out and nuanced in anime history, and the battles are both exhilarating and emotionally impactful. But what sets this arc apart is its pacing and tension-building. The slow burn of the story leads to a truly explosive and satisfying finale that leaves a lasting impression on viewers.

7 Death Note - Season 1

With a premise as intriguing as a supernatural notebook that can kill anyone whose name is written in it, it's no surprise that Death Note is one of the most talked-about anime out there. The first half of the series is clearly superior to the second, but Season 1 as a whole is a masterpiece of psychological thriller and suspense. The battle of wits between Light Yagami and L is a treat to watch, and the twists and turns keep you on the edge of your seat.

If the anime had ended here, it would have been in my top 3 favorites.

8 Gurren Lagann - Post Time Skip

The post-time skip arc of Gurren Lagann is a breathtaking continuation of the already epic storyline. The animation continues to be stunning, with mecha battles and action sequences that are both visually impressive and emotionally impactful. But what sets this arc apart is its exploration of themes of sacrifice and loss. The stakes are higher than ever before, and the characters must make tough choices that leave lasting consequences.

I thought Gurren Lagann would be a silly anime that's just a fun watch. But the way it hit hard with the political and philosophical themes in the second half blew me away.

9 The Promised Neverland - Season 1 (Jailbreak Arc)

The first season of The Promised Neverland is a masterclass in suspense and storytelling. The series follows a group of orphans who discover a horrifying secret about their idyllic home and must band together to escape before it's too late. What sets this season apart is its intricate plot, well-developed characters, and constant sense of danger lurking around every corner. It's a rare combination of horror, drama, and mystery that will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.

10 One Piece - Summit War Saga

Summit War, or Paramount War, is a major story arc in the long-running adventure anime. It follows the Straw Hat Pirates as they enter a war between two powerful factions: the Marines and the Whitebeard Pirates. The saga is known for its epic battles, emotional moments, and world-building. It also introduces several new characters and expands on the backstories of existing ones. Fans of One Piece often consider the Summit War Saga to be one of the highlights of the series, with many considering it to be one of the best story arcs in anime history.

The Contenders
11 The Rising of the Shield Hero - Season 1

The Rising of the Shield Hero is not your average Isekai anime. It starts off by introducing us to one of the most sympathetic protagonists in anime history, Naofumi Iwatani. From the very first episode, we meet his character as he is summoned to a parallel world as one of the four legendary heroes. However, his world is quickly turned upside down when he is falsely accused of a crime and betrayed by those he thought he could trust.

Season 1 of The Rising of the Shield Hero is a rollercoaster of emotions that will leave you both enraged and heartbroken. It tackles serious topics like betrayal, slavery, and prejudice, showing us just how much pain and suffering Naofumi goes through. His struggles are made all the more painful when we see the stark contrast between his character and that of the most hated villain in anime history, who is responsible for Naofumi's suffering.

But it's not just the characters that make this anime so great. The world-building is incredible, with detailed and immersive environments that feel like they could exist outside the confines of the screen. As Naofumi navigates this dangerous world full of magic, monsters, and political intrigue, we see him grow and develop as a character. He transforms from a naive and trusting young man into a hardened and cynical warrior.

All in all, The Rising of the Shield Hero Season 1 is a must-watch for anyone who loves dark fantasy, complex characters, and epic world-building. Whether you're a fan of the Isekai genre or not, this anime will leave you wanting more.

12 Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood - The Promised Day

Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood is considered one of the greatest anime of all time, and The Promised Day arc is a major reason why. The series reaches its epic conclusion as the heroes battle against the homunculi and their leader, Father, to prevent them from achieving godhood. What sets this arc apart is its intricate plot, complex themes, and incredible character moments. It's a satisfying end to an already amazing series that will leave you breathless.

13 Rurouni Kenshin - Season 2

Season 2 of Rurouni Kenshin takes a darker turn with the introduction of Shishio Makoto, one of the most iconic villains in anime history. The season centers around the fight between Kenshin and Shishio, a former assassin who seeks to overthrow the Meiji government and establish his own regime. The battles are intense and emotional, with the stakes growing higher with each passing episode. What sets this season apart is its emphasis on character development and the exploration of the cost of war. Through Kenshin's struggle to confront his past and overcome his guilt, we see the true impact of violence and the toll it takes on those who participate in it.

14 Hell Girl - Season 1
15 Monster - Ruhenheim arc

This is one of the most acclaimed arcs in the anime. It's a suspenseful thriller that follows Dr. Kenzo Tenma, a skilled neurosurgeon who finds himself on the run from the law after he saves the life of a young boy instead of a high-profile patient. This arc is a masterclass in storytelling, with a gripping plot, well-written characters, and a sense of tension that never lets up. It's a must-watch for fans of the psychological thriller genre.

16 Naruto Shippuden - Invasion of Pain arc

Naruto Shippuden's Invasion of Pain arc is often considered one of the most emotional and impactful arcs of the series. The arc sees the village of Konoha under attack by the powerful ninja, Pain, as he seeks to destroy the village in order to create a new world order. The arc is notable for its intense action sequences, as well as its exploration of themes such as loss, sacrifice, and the meaning of peace. The arc is particularly notable for its emotional impact, as several beloved characters meet their fates in the battle against Pain.

17 One Piece - East Blue Saga
18 Gintama - Shogun Assassination Arc

This arc marks a turning point in the series. It's a serious arc that's handled with care, and it raises the stakes for the rest of the series. The arc is full of twists and turns, and it's emotionally resonant. What makes Gintama stand out is its unique blend of comedy and drama. This arc showcases the series' ability to shift from humor to heart-wrenching drama at the drop of a hat. It's a testament to the series' versatility and its ability to keep the viewer engaged.

19 Sword Art Online - Aincrad arc

Sword Art Online is an anime that took the world by storm when it first aired. The first arc of the series, known as the Aincrad arc, is one of the most iconic storylines in anime. It follows a group of gamers who find themselves trapped in a virtual reality MMORPG, where death in the game means death in the real world.

What sets this arc apart is its world-building, which is expertly crafted to create a sense of immersion. The series' first episode is widely regarded as one of the best first episodes in anime history, and it sets the stage for a thrilling adventure that should not be missed.

20 One Piece - Water 7 Saga

The Water 7 Saga of One Piece is often considered one of the best arcs in the series due to its intricate plot and emotional depth. This saga takes place after the Straw Hat Pirates narrowly escape an encounter with Admiral Aokiji and arrive at the city of Water 7. The story arc sees the crew separated as they are forced to deal with personal conflicts and the looming threat of a powerful enemy organization known as CP9.

The arc explores themes such as betrayal, loyalty, and the bonds between the Straw Hats in a way that is both thrilling and heart-wrenching.

21 Black Clover - Season 3

Black Clover's third season is an action-packed adventure that takes the series to new heights. Asta and the Black Bulls must face off against the powerful Dark Triad and their devil followers in a battle to save the kingdom. What sets this season apart is its incredible animation, intense battles, and emotional character development. It's a thrilling ride that will leave you rooting for the heroes every step of the way.

22 My Hero Academia - Season 3, Part 1

My Hero Academia's third season is a turning point for the series as it explores darker themes and raises the stakes higher than ever before. The Forest Training Camp arc sees the students pushed to their limits as they face off against powerful villains. The Hideout Raid arc is the explosive conclusion to everything that has been building up until this point.

What sets this season apart is its emotional depth, well-developed characters, and incredible action scenes. It's a journey that will make you laugh, cry, and cheer for the heroes every step of the way.

23 Dragon Ball Z - Saiyan Saga

The Saiyan Saga is the first major story arc of Dragon Ball Z, and it changed the series forever. After the lighthearted adventures of Dragon Ball, this saga marked a shift to a much darker and more serious tone. The revelation about the Saiyans and their connection to Goku added depth to the story, and their arrival on Earth signaled a turning point in the series. The introduction of Vegeta, the prince of the Saiyan race, also became a fan favorite and marked the beginning of his journey from villain to anti-hero.

The Saiyan Saga is a standout season due to its character development, dramatic tension, and action-packed battles. The arrival of the Saiyans on Earth created a sense of urgency and danger that had never been present in the series before. This saga explored themes of sacrifice, loss, and redemption that would become hallmarks of the series. Overall, the Saiyan Saga was a turning point for Dragon Ball Z and established the show as one of the most iconic anime of all time.

24 Jojo's Bizarre Adventure - Part 2 (Battle Tendency)

Part 2 of JoJo's Bizarre Adventure, Battle Tendency, takes the over-the-top action and bizarre characters of the first season and cranks it up to 11. The season centers around Joseph Joestar, the grandson of the previous season's protagonist, as he battles the Pillar Men, a group of ancient beings with godlike powers. The season is full of intense battles, creative solutions, and unexpected twists.

What makes this season so memorable is its sheer audacity. The creators push the limits of what's possible in anime and deliver a non-stop thrill ride that never lets up.

25 Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion R1

Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion R1 is a gripping mecha series that centers around the genius and charismatic protagonist, Lelouch Lamperouge. Set in an alternate universe where the Holy Britannian Empire has conquered a large portion of the world, the story follows Lelouch as he leads a rebellion against the empire to avenge his mother's death and create a better world for his sister.

What sets R1 apart is the masterful way in which it balances complex political intrigue with thrilling action scenes. At the heart of it all is Lelouch, whose intelligence, determination, and sheer force of personality make him one of anime's most captivating protagonists.

As the series progresses, Lelouch's character development is truly remarkable. He is forced to grapple with the consequences of his actions and the true cost of his ambitions. While the second season, R2, may have its detractors, one of the most significant aspects of R1 is its consistency. Unlike its sequel, R2, R1 maintains a consistent pace and tone throughout the series, which many fans find more enjoyable.

Additionally, the season finale is widely considered one of the greatest cliffhangers in anime history, leaving viewers desperate for more.

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