Action-oriented shonen anime enjoy widespread popularity, exemplified by massive fan followings of series like Naruto and My Hero Academia. Even those who haven’t delved into anime culture are likely familiar with these prominent titles. While these shows are brimming with action, they also feature significant character evolution and slower segments, which may not resonate with every viewer. These quieter moments are essential for deepening character complexity and clarifying certain power enhancements, yet they can risk losing the viewer’s interest, prompting them to seek more fast-paced alternatives.
Thus, many fans might wish to fast-forward to the adrenaline-fueled scenes and might not prioritize intricate story arcs. For such viewers, there are many series that deliver action in a more concentrated fashion. Although some downtime is inevitable, the top-tier action anime come impressively close to minimizing it, presenting explosive battle sequences filled with high stakes, exciting power-ups, and unexpected turns.
Updated October 20, 2024 by Mark Sammut: Each new season rekindles enthusiasm and anticipation, and Fall 2024 is delivering on that promise without disappointment. The current selection highlights numerous action-packed series, but which ones outshine the rest?
Notably, titles such as
Dragon Ball Z
,
Naruto
, and
One Piece
have been excluded from this list due to their lengthy non-action segments. However, each series features outstanding fight sequences, especially the first two.
Exciting Action Anime of Fall 2024
This season’s offerings are impressive, encompassing a variety of genres such as comedy, romance, drama, sports, and even a touch of horror. Action has taken center stage, with several series showcasing spectacular fight scenes.
While it may be too diverse to cover completely here, shows like Dandadan are packed with thrilling action, and Re:ZERO has also delivered quality battles. Ranma ½, though principally a comedy, includes well-executed martial arts sequences. Meanwhile, Sword Art Online Alternative: Gun Gale Online 2 delivers an enjoyable experience despite its lightweight storyline. Dragon Ball Daima leans more towards adventure, while still providing its share of action.
Now, let’s shine a spotlight on the standout action anime of Fall 2024.
- Bleach: Thousand-Year Blood War – The Conflict – This series is a front-runner in action-packed content. Following two remarkable cours, Bleach dived straight into the action in its latest season, dedicating the premiere to two visually spectacular battles that set a high bar for production value and stakes. The Conflict is yet another triumph for Pierrot.
- Mecha-Ude: Mechanical Arms – A hidden gem of Fall 2024, Mecha-Ude hasn’t received as much buzz as it deserves, despite being an entertaining watch. While its narrative and world-building are solid, it’s the smooth and exceptional action that steals the show, often punctuated with humorous, slapstick moments.
- Shangri-La Frontier Season 2 – A sequel to a well-received first season, Shangri-La Frontier combines action, adventure, and comedy in an engaging way. Set in a gaming universe, the stakes in most fights are low, yet they remain abundant and enjoyable. Season 2 successfully continues its predecessor’s legacy.
- Rurouni Kenshin: Kyoto Disturbance – This season dives into the revered Kyoto Arc, which dominated the narrative of the original 1996 anime. Expect some slower segments, but this adaptation promises to present some of 2024’s most exhilarating fights, albeit later in the season.
Here’s a look at the best action anime that are currently not airing new episodes:
Baki Hanma
MyAnimeList Score: 7.66/10
Baki Hanma is a martial arts anime that showcases intense and brutal fights. Both Netflix’s Baki and Baki Hanma excellently portray the titular character’s battles within a ruthless underground fighting arena where combatants test their limits. This is ideal for Baki, who seeks to refine his abilities in pursuit of revenge against his father. The dynamic animation enhances the fights, ensuring they are a visual delight.
Kengan Ashura
MyAnimeList Score: 7.44/10 (Season 1)
Kengan Ashura may evoke comparisons to Baki, yet it stands out with its unique approach. The story centers on protagonist Tokita Ohma as he competes on behalf of a business mogul in a gladiatorial arena. Though the premise sounds somewhat typical, Kengan Ashura’s energetic action and deft pacing elevate it as a noteworthy shonen series. Unlike many action anime, it primarily centers on battles, but presents them in a way that makes them feel crucial.
Demon Slayer
MyAnimeList Score: 8.49/10
The beginning of Demon Slayer may seem slow, featuring Tanjiro’s early struggles following the death of his family at the hands of Muzan, with Nezuko becoming a demon in the process. His journey to learn the Water Breathing technique transforms him into a formidable swordsman. The series unfolds into thrilling battles against powerful demons, interspersed with brief moments of calm. The striking animation during these epic confrontations plays a significant role in the show’s popularity.
Jujutsu Kaisen
MyAnimeList Score: 8.63/10
Jujutsu Kaisen has captivated audiences with the complex relationship between Yuji Itadori and Ryomen Sukuna. The incorporation of cursed energy to generate powerful attacks and abilities contributes to its global acclaim. The series effectively blends humor, action, and horror, featuring exhilarating fight scenes that are enjoyable to witness. The distinct personalities of its characters contribute to the palpable excitement surrounding the anticipation for its next season.
Tokyo Ghoul
MyAnimeList Score: 7.79/10
Tokyo Ghoul is often seen as a missed opportunity in the anime landscape, especially considering the first season’s impressive quality. While it remained faithful to the original manga’s material—except for an alternate ending—the later seasons faltered, rushing through story arcs and focusing primarily on action, which disappointed many fans. Nevertheless, the series showcased stunning animation during its battle scenes, and Kaneki’s powers were visually captivating.
JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure
MyAnimeList Score: 7.89/10
No one can deny that an anime adapted from a fighting game is brimming with action sequences; welcome to the extraordinary universe of JoJo! Spanning five seasons, each arc universally explores the Joestar Clan’s lineage as they master their Stand powers, engaging in fierce battles to break free from their family’s curse. The most recent arc, Stone Ocean, highlights Jolyne Cujoh’s journey through prison as a shadowy mastermind plays with her fate, continuing the glorious tradition of intense confrontations.
Chainsaw Man
MyAnimeList Score: 8.54/10
Denji bursts onto the scene after merging with a demonic dog, gaining chainsaw features and a fresh outlook on life. The series unapologetically depicts the destruction Denji can unleash, despite not being the strongest character in the show. Additionally, the female characters prove to be powerful forces on the battlefield, delivering punishing attacks while maintaining high-quality fight scenes. Chainsaw Man is humorous, fierce, and unexpectedly emotional, appealing to a wide range of anime enthusiasts.
Bleach: Thousand Year Blood War
MyAnimeList Score: 9.04/10
Unlike older Bleach installments that often became bogged down with fillers, the Thousand Year Blood War embraces modern standards by embedding thrilling action sequences throughout. The story kicks off with chaos engulfing Ichigo and his companions from the start, with little respite as humans, Soul Reapers, and Hollows unite against a formidable ancient foe. Set shortly after the Arrancar Arc, the Shinigami face unprecedented challenges as they battle to protect their existence.
Cyberpunk: Edgerunners
MyAnimeList Score: 8.60/10
Cyberpunk: Edgerunners captivates viewers with its stunning animation and gripping battle sequences. Set against the dystopian backdrop of Night City, genetic alterations are common, yet some individuals take it to an extreme, becoming lethal machines. As they grapple with the repercussions of their transformations—that can lead to Cyberpsychosis—they must contend with malevolent corporations while surviving in a harsh environment. Will David, an inexperienced newcomer, manage to survive in this perilous world?
My Hero Academia
MyAnimeList Score: 7.88/10
Izuku Midoriya’s quest to become a hero despite lacking innate superpowers is nothing short of inspiring. As villains rise against the established power hierarchies, the students of UA Academy frequently find themselves at the center of these conflicts. While there are moments of calm amidst the action, My Hero Academia predominantly delivers a classic shonen experience packed with dynamic fights around every corner. Season 6, in particular, offers a veritable feast of combat, complemented by rich world-building and a complex moral landscape.
Kaiju No. 8
MyAnimeList Score: 8.33
Initially, Kaiju No. 8 may not appear to be an action-driven anime. The first episodes feature brief bursts of excitement, but as the protagonist joins the Defense Force, the series gears up. Most episodes transition into high-octane confrontations with invading kaiju threats, where characters must coordinate against overwhelming odds. Production I.G delivers engaging action sequences, showcasing the scale of the kaiju while emphasizing the teamwork and tactics of the human fighters. While perhaps not as visually striking as some current heavyweights, Kaiju No. 8 has surpassed its competitors in recent seasons.
Attack On Titan
MyAnimeList Score: 8.54/10
Attack on Titan needs no introduction, chronicling humanity’s battle for survival against towering, monstrous foes known as Titans. The narrative kicks into high gear when the Colossal and Armored Titan disrupt the fragile peace, forever altering Eren’s destiny. While slower political undercurrents and reflective moments exist, particularly in seasons 2 and 4, the majority of each episode remains a nail-biting thrill ride where no character is safe.
Kabaneri Of The Iron Fortress
MyAnimeList Score: 7.27/10
Directed by Tetsuro Araki, who was behind much of Attack on Titan, Kabaneri of the Iron Fortress shares its premise of humanity on the brink. However, the twist involves undead creatures (Kabane) in a unique steampunk setting reflective of samurai-era Japan. Though its run is brief, followed by a worthwhile sequel film, this anime consistently provides gripping battles accompanied by stunning animation. Once audiences navigate past the Attack on Titan similarities, they will undoubtedly appreciate Kabaneri’s intricate and thrilling confrontations.
Kill La Kill
MyAnimeList Score: 8.04/10
Kill la Kill marked Studio Trigger’s debut with tremendous success, following Ryuko in her quest to avenge her father’s death as she battles against an oppressive school class system using her signature scissor blade. Paired with a talking outfit that enhances her skills, she faces off against opponents dressed in powerful Goku Uniforms. The animation in Kill la Kill stands unrivaled, rendering its action sequences incredibly captivating.
Solo Leveling
MyAnimeList Score: 8.29/10
Solo Leveling has elicited mixed feelings, notably with its notable manhwa and the recent anime adaptation. Its strong opening gives way to predictable narratives that can dim the excitement due to protagonist Sung Jin-Woo’s continuous path toward dominance. After a while, the series can feel like it hinges solely on fight scenes, an unfortunate turn as its world-building exhibits potential. Regardless, the animations are exceptional, with A-1 studios ensuring that battle sequences remain breathtaking, negating the excessive reliance on less convincing CGI seen in other contemporary series.
Hellsing & Hellsing Ultimate
MyAnimeList Score: 7.49 (Hellsing), 8.35/10 (Hellsing Ultimate)
There are two adaptations of the Hellsing manga, with the initial one diverging significantly yet still worthwhile for its remarkable soundtrack. Hellsing Ultimate, the more faithful reboot, adheres closely to the manga’s plot and is generally regarded as superior. Both adaptations overflow with action, though they are brevetted in length. However, character development leaves much to be desired in this violent, over-the-top tale steeped in gore and satire. Hellsing Ultimate is a treat for action aficionados craving engaging battles and stylish animation.
One-Punch Man
MyAnimeList Score: 8.50/10
One-Punch Man is a clever satire of superhero culture, featuring Saitama, an unassuming hero who can obliterate any opponent with a single punch. His quirky appearance often leads to underestimation by his foes, illustrating a prevalent misunderstanding among villains that they pay dearly for. The comedic elements shine as adversaries boast of their might, only to be swiftly defeated by Saitama. While this pokes fun at the genre, it also includes thrilling matchups with fellow heroes.
The God Of High School
MyAnimeList Score: 7.07/10
The God of High School is built around a martial arts tournament, enticing participants with the promise of victory. More than just mindless fighting, the show is filled with engaging combat sequences, enhanced by impressive visuals. Adapted from a South Korean webtoon created by Yongje Park, The God of High School shares the epic fight aesthetics of typical Japanese anime, satisfying viewers craving masterfully choreographed battles.
Ghost In The Shell: Stand Alone Complex
MyAnimeList Score: 8.42/10
Ghost in the Shell originated as a manga, but its anime adaptation gained significant acclaim in 1995. Although the film features outstanding action and themes, character exploration is limited. In contrast, Ghost In The Shell: Stand Alone Complex, with its two substantial seasons and a feature film, offers a better balance, rendering its characters more relatable, especially the Major, who showcases more human qualities. Yet, action remains prevalent in this cyberpunk masterpiece.
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