War remains a constant in human history and is among the costliest endeavors undertaken by humanity. Even in the realm of anime, war-related themes face significant financial challenges. Crafting a war anime demands a level of intense action that invariably escalates production costs. This financial burden likely contributes to the scarcity of war anime, especially in comparison to other genres that can thrive without extensive action sequences or grand spectacles.
However, there exists a selection of outstanding anime within this niche that will satisfy the audience’s appetite for conflict, strategy, and intensity. The finest war anime do not glorify warfare; instead, they delve into poignant narratives that expose the futility of these battles. Countless lives are extinguished for causes that are often subjective, framed under the guise of righteousness. Tackling such profound themes can be challenging, yet the top war anime excel in presenting these aspects along with many others.
Updated October 20, 2024 by Mark Sammut: Aside from Bleach: The Thousand-Year Blood War, the Fall 2024 lineup lacks substantial war-themed anime. Nonetheless, a recent series that concluded its second season in the Summer of 2024 warrants mention in this dialogue.
Notably, popular battle shonen anime like One Piece, Bleach, and Naruto, which feature war arcs, are excluded here since they don’t represent the series as a whole.
28 Lord Marksman and Vanadis
MyAnimeList score: 7.11
Taking place in a fantastical version of Europe, Lord Marksman and Vanadis tells the tale of Tigrevurmud “Tigre”Vorn, who endeavors to protect his homeland but suffers a devastating defeat at the hands of Eleonora “Elen”Viltaria, a Vanadis warrior initiating the assault. Expecting execution after his army’s annihilation, Tigre is instead drawn into an unexpected alliance with Elen.
While the narrative presents a somewhat engaging storyline, it falls prey to various anime tropes, particularly in its portrayal of female characters, which feels somewhat outdated. Nevertheless, viewers able to overlook these flaws may find this war anime enjoyable and worth their time.
27 Valvrave The Liberator
MyAnimeList score: 7.12
Valvrave the Liberator is a mecha series that explores the tensions between galactic superpowers. The plot revolves around Haruto Tokishima, whose ordinary life spirals out of control when forces from the Dorssia Military Pact Federation, representing Space Russia, intrude upon neutral territories, capturing the formidable Valvraves—war tools capable of altering the battle’s dynamics.
This mecha series caters to fans who enjoy colossal machines clashing in intense combat. Although the premise of a high schooler destined to save the world can feel clichéd, those who are willing to suspend disbelief will find great enjoyment in Valvrave the Liberator.
26 Record Of Grancrest War
MyAnimeList score: 7.22
Record of Grancrest War presents an interesting premise. Many viewers were captivated by the first nine episodes for their engaging, albeit somewhat conventional, storytelling. However, the anime significantly diverges from its light novel source material, leading to a mixed reception from audiences regarding its narrative execution.
Yet, viewers who approach Record of Grancrest War with an open mindset may find enjoyment in its offerings. Although some may feel the pacing is too brisk, those who can move past this will discover a fun, often overlooked series. While it may not tackle heavier themes compared to others, it provides a lighthearted watch that still delivers entertainment.
25 Sengoku Basara: Samurai Kings
MyAnimeList score: 7.32
Set during Japan’s warring states period, Samurai Kings exploits the tumultuous story of Oda Nobunaga, who relentlessly pursues the unification of Japan through violence. The anime depicts this tale in a romanticized fashion, portraying Nobunaga as a formidable adversary that forces two rival clans to join forces against his overwhelming military.
Expect grand samurai battles and a portrayal of warfare that is somewhat more accurate compared to most samurai-themed anime.
24 Aldnoah.Zero
MyAnimeList score: 7.39 (Season 1)
In Aldnoah.Zero, humanity’s discovery of advanced technology on Mars precipitates a burgeoning conflict between the Martian Vers Empire and Terrans remaining on Earth. Following the lunar destruction and a fragile ceasefire, tensions escalate when Princess Asseylum Vers Allusia is assassinated on Earth during diplomatic attempts.
While the story centralizes around a high school student grappling with the world’s fate, the series still captivates with its exceptional mecha elements. Though it might not break new ground, it’s an intriguing watch for fans of classic mecha narratives with familiar sci-fi themes.
23 Zipang
MyAnimeList score: 7.49
Zipang offers a war narrative set during World War 2, featuring a modern destroyer that becomes mysteriously transported back to the pivotal Battle of Midway in 1942. The crew, concerned about altering history, tries to remain hidden and inconspicuous yet soon realizes they hold the potential for positive change in the timeline.
22 Altair: A Record Of Battles
MyAnimeList score: 7.55
Altair: A Record of Battles serves as a historical exploration, drawing from the narrative of the Ottoman Empire (modern-Turkey) between 1300 and 1922 CE. The series highlights the medieval aspects of this long-ranging empire, incorporating Islamic symbols and real-life military strategies from that era.
Tughril Mahmut, the protagonist, faces the increasingly aggressive expansion of the Ottoman Empire, compelling him to defend his homeland.
21 Valkyria Chronicles
MyAnimeList score: 7.56
Based on a beloved video game series, Valkyria Chronicles unfolds narratives rooted in fictional warfare between various kingdoms, weaving captivating tales within this war-torn backdrop. The anime was well-positioned to adapt its rich world and mythology.
Although certain elements of the adaptation can feel underwhelming, the sincere effort shines through. The animation may not stand out, yet the compelling score and character development elevate the experience, solidifying Valkyria Chronicles as an underrated gem within the anime world.
20 Full Metal Panic!
MyAnimeList score: 7.59 (Season 1)
Full Metal Panic! adopts a nuanced lens to the concept of war despite being a mecha series; it primarily unfolds its narrative through espionage. The story centers around Sousuke Sagara, a young mech pilot assigned to safeguard Kaname Chidori, a crucial figure in combating global conflicts.
Kaname, an experimental human capable of creating advanced technology, attracts unwanted attention from various factions. As Sousuke balances his military duties with maintaining his cover as a high school student, the series transitions from a comedic tone to one enriched with action and drama, particularly evident in its superior sequel, Fumoffu.
19 The Saga Of Tanya The Evil
MyAnimeList score: 7.96
The Saga of Tanya the Evil intertwines the isekai and war anime genres, beginning with a modern man who challenges a deity during a game of wits. Losing the confrontation leads to reincarnation as a girl within an alternate World War I scenario.
Known as the “Devil of the Rhine,”Tanya mercilessly guides her nation toward victory, all while bending the rules of war and evading the repercussions of her brutal tactics.
18 Alderamin On The Sky
MyAnimeList score: 7.63
Featuring a protagonist who embodies a laid-back demeanor, Alderamin on the Sky follows Ikta Solork, who becomes reluctantly embroiled in a conflict between the Katjvarna Empire and the Republic of Kioka.
After being elevated to military officer status and undertaking a daring rescue, Ikta and his companions are designated as Imperial Knights, becoming pivotal figures in a struggle that could shape the empire’s future. This enjoyable series strikes a balance between lighthearted humor and the gravitas of war without being overly preachy.
17 Knights Of Sidonia
MyAnimeList score: 7.64
Knights of Sidonia examines how humanity unites in the face of a shared peril, though the journey leads to complex outcomes. Set against the backdrop of an alien conflict, it depicts humanity’s retreat from Earth aboard a massive spacecraft, Sidonia, as they face relentless alien adversaries.
While the series may not delve deeply into its themes, its execution of core concepts makes Knights of Sidonia a valuable watch, despite some visual shortcomings due to CGI.
16 The Heroic Legend Of Arslan
MyAnimeList score: 7.66
The Heroic Legend of Arslan draws inspiration from pre-medieval Persia, contributing to its rich historical context. The protagonist, Arslan, is the crown prince determined to defend his kingdom of Pars against the invading Lusitania. Tragedy strikes when his father is murdered during his absence, igniting a series of political upheavals that destabilize Pars.
15 Crest Of The Stars
MyAnimeList score: 7.62
Crest of the Stars highlights the oppressive dominance of the technologically advanced Abh Empire, which forces humanity to unite against them under the Four Nations Alliance. The story follows Jinto Linn, whose father sold their homeland to the Empire for status.
In the midst of conflict between the Four Nations Alliance and the Abh Empire, Jinto and an Abh princess named Lafiel find themselves at the heart of a war that may determine humanity’s freedom.
14 Violet Evergarden
MyAnimeList score: 8.68
Violet Evergarden straddles the boundary of traditional war narratives, occurring in the aftermath of a great conflict rather than during it. The anime captures the devastating effects of war, weaving intimate, personal stories that resonate with common wartime themes.
Above all, Violet Evergarden excels with breathtaking animation, a captivating world, and a protagonist who experiences significant growth throughout the series. Once a child soldier, Violet grapples with her past and seeks her purpose in a world where peace has finally emerged.
13 Nier: Automata Ver1.1a
MyAnimeList score: 7.52 (Season 1)
Based on the acclaimed video game by Yoko Taro, Nier: Automata Ver1.1a aligns with its source’s intricate storytelling and character development while exploring familiar themes surrounding the futility of conflict. Set in a desolate future, Earth endures ongoing warfare between alien machines and androids, the latter defending humanity’s home from total extinction.
While the narrative may become excessively complicated at times due to its non-linear approach, the overall quality of the writing, thematic content, and character arcs compensate effectively, complemented by outstanding animation and a memorable score. Season 2 improves considerably on the groundwork laid by the first, reinforcing the importance of viewing both seasons.
12 Tengen Toppa Gurren Lagann
MyAnimeList score: 8.63
Produced by Gainax, known for their masterpieces including Neon Genesis Evangelion, Gurren Lagann does not shy away from delivering a grand-scale narrative filled with monumental conflict. At its essence, the series revolves around the rebellion of Earth’s oppressed humans fighting against an alien oppressor.
Rallying under the torch of freedom and camaraderie are Kamina and Simon, united in their struggle against the cosmos. With dynamic visuals and unforgettable characters, Gurren Lagann stands as a sci-fi spectacle infused with human emotion and common war themes, appealing mainly to fans of mecha genre.
11 Mobile Suit Gundam Titles
MyAnimeList score: 7.75 (Mobile Suit Gundam)
The Mobile Suit Gundam franchise offers a vast array of sci-fi war sagas featuring magnificent mecha and conflicts. Each entry weaves political or philosophical narratives around the core of battles fought by protagonists within their iconic blue-and-white mobile suits.
The intricate geopolitical dynamics presented in many Gundam series provide a rich backdrop that elevates the conflicts, making it a cornerstone of any discourse about war-themed anime.
10 Barefoot Gen
MyAnimeList score: 7.77
Recognized for its haunting depiction of the Hiroshima bombing, Barefoot Gen poignantly illustrates the catastrophic aftermath of war through a child’s perspective. The harrowing scenes capture the brutality of the atomic bomb’s destruction and the loss of innocent lives as witnessed by young Gen.
This heart-wrenching narrative offers critical insights into the impact of war on civilians, showcasing the profound suffering endured by those caught in the turbulence of conflict.
9 Jormungand
MyAnimeList score: 7.80
Jormungand delves into controversial contemporary themes, centering on Jonah, a former child soldier turned bodyguard for an idealistic arms dealer. The series raises poignant questions about morality and peace amidst conflict, reflecting the complexities of human nature and personal histories shaped by war.
Jormungand presents a striking narrative within a modern setting, unafraid to confront difficult realities while weaving a captivating story.
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