If you grew up surrounded by memes, social media, and streaming marathons, you're probably part of Generation Z — and, of course, anime played a huge role in that journey. From modern classics to viral hits that dominated TikTok, we've compiled a list of the 10 best anime that marked (or are still marking) this generation. Get ready for nostalgia, emotion, and plenty of action!
List of the best anime of Generation Z
10. Bocchi the Rock!
- Bad note: 8.75
- Year: 2022
- Studio: CloverWorks
- Episodes: 12
At first glance, Bocchi the Rock! might seem like just another anime about music and high school girls, but it goes far beyond that. The protagonist, an introverted girl with extreme social anxiety, wins over the audience precisely because she is so real and relatable—especially for Generation Z, who deal daily with social pressures and self-image issues on social media.
Furthermore, the series shines with bold art direction, full of creative cuts and unexpected visual humor. It's not just about forming a band; it's about finding your place in the world even when anxiety screams loudest. It's lighthearted, yes, but also incredibly sincere.
09. Oshi no Ko
- MAL rating : 8.57 (Season 1)
- Year: 2023
- Studio: Doga Kobo
- Episodes: 11
The first episode of Oshi no Ko was enough to leave many people speechless — and it's no coincidence. The series begins as a typical idol story, but soon delves into a heavy psychological thriller, addressing fame, media manipulation, and the cruel behind-the-scenes workings of the entertainment industry.
However, what truly sets it apart is how it blends social commentary with an addictive plot. Generation Z, so immersed in pop culture and influencers, finds itself directly challenged. After all, where does the spectacle end… and where does the truth begin?
08. My Hero Academia
- MAL rating : 7.84 (Season 1)
- Year: 2016
- Studio: Bones
- Episodes: 13
Even though it's been on the air for several seasons, My Hero Academia is still one of Generation Z's favorite series—and rightfully so. Its universe of heroes is vibrant and full of lessons about effort, justice, and identity, but what truly captivates is the emotional journey of Deku, a protagonist who fails, learns, and grows before our eyes.
Furthermore, the anime isn't afraid to explore moral dilemmas, villains with human motivations, and critiques of heroic society. Thus, it remains current and relevant, even with so many new competitors vying for attention.
07. Chainsaw Man
- Bad note: 8.45
- Year: 2022
- Studio: MAPPA
- Episodes: 12
Chainsaw Man is pure insanity — but in a good way. With a protagonist who only wants simple things (like bread with jam or a little affection), the anime presents a brutal, bloody world full of demons, but without losing a certain ironic charm.
However, don't be fooled: there's much more here than just gore action. The way it deals with trauma, loneliness, and the desire for connection resonates unexpectedly, especially with young people accustomed to an emotionally intense and often lonely life.
06. Spy vs. Family
- MAL rating : 8.45 (Part 01)
- Year: 2022
- Studio: Wit Studio, CloverWorks
- Episodes: 12
Spy x Family is the definition of adorable chaos. Mixing espionage, family comedy, and action in balanced doses, the anime won the hearts of Generation Z with charismatic characters — especially Anya, who became an almost instant meme.
But beyond the jokes and cuteness, there's a deeper layer: the importance of empathy, human connections, and unlikely love. Thus, even amidst lies and secrets, the series builds a story about family in the most unlikely—and true—sense of the word.
The best anime of Generation Z – Top 5
05. Tokyo Revengers
- MAL rating : 7.85 (Season 1)
- Year: 2021
- Studio: LIDENFILMS
- Episodes: 24
Time travel doesn't always work out, but Tokyo Revengers struck the perfect balance between gang action and emotional drama. Takemichi, a decidedly unheroic protagonist, reminds us that changing the past requires more than courage—it requires maturity.
Furthermore, the anime touches on sensitive themes such as friendship, loyalty, and loss, all wrapped up in exciting plot twists. Generation Z, which often feels the pressure to "fix" everything around them, ends up finding itself in this dilemma between destiny and choice.
04. Blue Lock
- MAL rating : 8.17 (Season 1)
- Year: 2022-2023
- Studio: 8bit
- Episodes: 24
Blue Lock isn't just a soccer anime—it's a lesson in ego, ambition, and identity. Instead of the classic team spirit, here the competition is fierce and almost cruel, which already shatters all expectations of a traditional sports shounen.
However, that's precisely what makes it so addictive. The constant questioning of what it means to be the best, combined with an intense aesthetic and complex characters, resonates with a generation seeking prominence in a hyper-competitive world.
The best anime of Generation Z – Top 3
03. Jujutsu Kaisen
- MAL rating : 8.54 (Season 1)
- Year: 2020-2021
- Studio: MAPPA
- Episodes: 24
Jujutsu Kaisen is pure dynamism. Between masterfully choreographed fights and charismatic characters, it quickly won a place in the hearts of fans. Yuji Itadori is not just another impulsive hero—he carries the weight of death, fear, and compassion in every choice.
Furthermore, the anime balances horror and humor almost perfectly. And with antagonists like Sukuna and heroes as imperfect as they are powerful, it accurately reflects the dilemmas of modern youth: knowing who you are in a world that insists on labeling you.
02. Demon Slayer
- MAL rating : 8.43 (Season 1)
- Year: 2019
- Studio: ufotable
- Episodes: 26
Visually stunning and emotionally powerful, Demon Slayer became a phenomenon for good reason. Tanjiro's journey is as tragic as it is inspiring, and his dedication to his family, even in a world full of pain, is deeply moving.
But what truly elevated the series was its ability to combine beauty with brutality. Thus, fight scenes become almost poetry in motion, and the message of empathy, even in the face of evil, resonates with a generation that values vulnerability as much as strength.
01. Attack on Titan
- MAL rating : 8.56 (Season 1)
- Year: 2013
- Studio: Wit Studio
- Episodes: 25
And at the top of the list, we couldn't leave out Attack on Titan . The anime began as a survival story, but evolved into a complex plot about freedom, morality, and the horrors of war. Each season delivered an emotional and philosophical punch—and Generation Z felt every single one.
Furthermore, the protagonist Eren represents a rare transition in the world of anime: from an idealistic hero to an ambiguous and tragic figure. Because of this, the series doesn't offer easy answers—but rather profound questions that continue to resonate even after the end credits roll.
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