Anime has been popular for a long time, with classics such as Bleach defining a generation of fans and still impacting the culture of fandom today. However, it’s hard to deny the impact of modern anime, with sensations such as Jujutsu Kaisen becoming among the most popular anime titles in history. But even though 2020 was three years ago, fans usually define modern shows by what has come out in the past 5 years.
That is why this list will rank the most perfect anime series that came out in the past five years, from 2021 to 2026. Based on elements such as story, animation, originality, entertainment value, popularity, consistency, fan opinion, critical acclaim, and overall quality, these shows are the must-watch staples of the past five years. New icons will come out, but for now, these are the most perfect modern anime.
10
‘Sonny Boy’ (2021)
Image via Madhouse
Almost all the anime on this list are mainstream hits, but one of the lesser-known icons of the past decade is Sonny Boy. This unconventional isekai follows a class of students who mysteriously transport to a bizarre world. As they try to figure out the laws of this world, the students begin developing superpowers, and a natural hierarchy forms as they search for a way back home.
Sonny Boy was one of the last avant-garde anime series, and it impressed in a big way, delivering a stunning season of confusing yet thought-provoking storytelling. This Lord of the Flies-esque anime delved into the creative realm to deliver a visually distinct and narratively complex anime that can be considered the must-watch hidden gem of the past five years.
9
‘Delicious in Dungeon’ (2024–Present)
Image via Trigger
The fantasy genre is bigger than ever, and series like Delicious in Dungeon prove that. After one of their party members is eaten by a dragon, the rest of the members either leave or plan to head back down. However, with no money, supplies, or food, they decide to cook the monsters they find down there. From adventuring to cooking creatures, there is more mystery that awaits them at the bottom of the dungeon.
Delicious in Dungeon is one of the most distinctive anime series of the 2020s, blending genuine fantasy mystery with fun monster gourmet creations. It has a brilliant use of worldbuilding and monster ecology, which works in favor of its cooking side adventures. No other anime does what Delicious in Dungeon does, and when the next season comes out, it may be the best fantasy anime of all time.
8
‘The Summer Hikaru Died’ (2025–Present)
Image via Netflix
Horror anime generally isn’t the best, but a history of lackluster shows can produce some hits, such as The Summer Hikaru Died. Yoshiki notices something wrong with his best friend, Hikaru, learning that he has actually died and a spirit has taken over his body. Denying this new reality, Yoshiki struggles to come to terms with it while the new Hikaru just wants to be friends.
Whether fans prefer the eerie horror and riveting mystery or the dynamic between the two characters, The Summer Hikaru Died has more than enough to keep fans entertained. This gripping horror anime has thrills, character development, and gorgeous animation that create a terrifying yet nostalgic summer vibe seeping in mystery that fans can’t wait to explore more of.
7
‘City the Animation’ (2025)
