Some of the most popular anime out there right now are shonen titles. With so many different anime spanning decades, fans are spoiled for choice when it comes to choosing a new series to check out. Every shonen series has its fair share of amazing moments that make it memorable long after you’ve watched it.
That said, not all series manage to stay consistent throughout their runs, especially when they run for so long. But that’s not a problem with these classic series. These iconic shonen manage to be great from start to finish.
7 Best Shonen Anime Series If You’re Craving Another My Hero Academia
Need a new series now that you’re done with My Hero Academia? Give these anime a look.
Saint Seiya
Saint Seiya, also known as Knights of the Zodiac, is one of those classic series that often doesn’t get the love it deserves. Despite often being overlooked, Saint Seiya is one of the most successful franchises of its generation, having spawned various manga series, spin-offs, video games, films, and anime adaptations.
The original series is still considered to be the best by many. Having aired from 1986 to 1989 with 114 episodes, it’s not a quick one to get through. But you’ll be glad you put in the time by the end of it. It’s a great classic shonen with amazing characters, and even though the animation can be a bit dated, it still looks great if you’re really into the older aesthetic.
Inuyasha
Rumiko Takahashi is an absolute legend who’s created some of the most iconic series out there. From Urusei Yatsura, to Maison Ikkoku, and Ranma 1/2, Takashi’s series all have their own unique charm that makes them unforgettable to readers and viewers. Among all her notable works, Inuyasha might just be the very best series she’s put out.
Depending on the generation, the Inuyasha anime might have served as a gateway series to many fans. Kagome and Inuyasha’s adventures keep you glued to the screen throughout the series’ 167-episode run. While that’s quite a lot to get through, the chemistry between the two leads and the incredible world Takahashi crafted for the series make it a perfect viewing experience from start to finish.
Fist of the North Star
Fist of the North Star might just be one of the most well-known anime of the ’80s. Though many know of it thanks to the hugely popular “Omae wa mou shindeiru” meme, the series is more than just an internet joke. It wouldn’t be an overstatement to call Fist of the North Star one of the most influential series of all time, with it having inspired iconic series like Berserk and Vinland Saga in some way or another.
The series itself still holds up well. The animation is obviously dated, but it still looks great with a classic aesthetic and unique style. If you’re a fan of classic anime and you haven’t checked this one out yet, you’re missing out on a great time.
Naruto
It might feel weird to refer to Naruto as a “classic” anime series, but the anime first aired over 20 years ago. A part of WSJ’s “big three” alongside One Piece and Bleach, Naruto has had a huge impact on modern shonen and has gone on to become one of the most recognizable anime out there.
It’s easy to see why the series has remained popular throughout the years. It features a strong core cast of characters with a protagonist you can’t help but root for, no matter the situation. It features some of the best fights you’ll see in any anime, and a story that has some incredible moments.
Yu Yu Hakusho
As far as classic ’90s series go, it often feels like Yu Yu Hakusho doesn’t come up as often as it should. The series has a dedicated fan base and a great reputation within the anime community, but for some reason, it always feels like there’s not enough love sent its way.
Anime fans might know series creator Yoshihiro Togashi as the man behind Hunter × Hunter. You can see a lot of what makes Hunter × Hunter great in Yu Yu Hakusho. Whether or not you prefer one over the other is a different story, but you won’t regret putting in the time to watch Yu Yu Hakusho once you’re done with it.
Dragon Ball
There aren’t many anime out there that have had the same global impact as Akira Toriyama’s Dragon Ball has. With nearly 450 episodes between the original series and Z, Goku’s adventures are long, but worth the time you put into experiencing them.
Some might disagree, but Dragon Ball is an incredibly fun watch that really changes throughout its run. From the more grounded martial arts focus of the early series to the slapstick comedy sprinkled throughout, and the more ambitious sci-fi elements added later on in the story, you won’t find anything else like it out there.
Slam Dunk
Takehiko Inoue has had an incredible career, with series like Vagabond, and Real under his belt. But the mangaka’s most well-known series will always be Slam Dunk. Sports anime might not be for everyone, but this is a series you won’t want to miss out on if you haven’t experienced it already.
Slam Dunk is a wild ride from start to finish. It’s an incredible underdog story that greatly focuses on the relationship between its main cast members and how that drives the narrative and their own personal arcs. The recent film, The First Slam Dunk, thrust the series back into the spotlight. So now is the perfect time to check it out.
