Top Shows on Crunchyroll Premium
Looking for your next anime obsession on Crunchyroll Premium? Whether you're a longtime fan of Japanese animation or just discovering the incredible depth of storytelling available on the platform, navigating the extensive Crunchyroll Premium library can feel overwhelming. That's where our expertly curated list of the top 21 shows on Crunchyroll Premium comes in. We've assembled the highest-rated and most beloved anime series spanning decades of exceptional content—from legendary long-running shonen adventures that have defined the genre to contemporary gems that showcase modern animation at its finest. This collection celebrates the full spectrum of what makes Crunchyroll Premium the premier destination for anime streaming, featuring everything from heartwarming slice-of-life comedies and mind-bending sci-fi thrillers to epic fantasy sagas and touching coming-of-age dramas. Each show represents the gold standard of storytelling, animation quality, and fan acclaim, ensuring that every recommendation is worth your time. Whether you're searching for your first anime series or looking to expand your watchlist with proven classics and fresh hits, these essential Crunchyroll Premium shows deliver unforgettable entertainment that showcases why anime continues to captivate audiences worldwide.
When a young boy named Monkey D. Luffy gains the power to stretch like rubber after eating a magical Devil Fruit, he sets out to find the legendary One Piece treasure and become King of the Pirates. This epic anime adventure from creator Eiichiro Oda has been sailing strong since 1999, and for good reason—it's an absolute masterclass in long-form storytelling. The series brilliantly balances humor, heart, and high-stakes action while building one of the most richly detailed fictional worlds in anime history. Each arc introduces memorable characters with genuinely moving backstories, and the crew's bonds deepen in ways that earn every emotional payoff. Yes, the episode count is intimidating, but the journey is absolutely worth it. The pacing improves significantly after the early arcs, and once you're invested in Luffy and his Straw Hat crew, you'll understand why fans have stayed devoted for over two decades.
Deceptively whimsical at first, this shonen anime transforms into something progressively darker and more sophisticated as it explores the journey of young Gon Freecss searching for his absent father. Madhouse's 2011 adaptation of Yoshihiro Togashi's manga is a masterclass in long-form storytelling, with each arc building complexity in both plot and character development. What begins as a straightforward adventure anime evolves into a profound examination of human nature, morality, and the costs of ambition. The Chimera Ant arc alone stands as one of anime's greatest achievements—a harrowing, emotionally devastating exploration of what separates humans from monsters. The voice acting in both Japanese and English is exceptional, and the animation remains consistently strong across 148 episodes. This is essential viewing for anyone who thinks they've outgrown shonen anime, proving the genre can achieve genuine artistic depth.
In medieval Iceland and eventually across the North Atlantic to the shores of Vinland, young Thorfinn's journey from innocent child to revenge-driven warrior unfolds against the backdrop of Viking expansion and conflict. This anime adaptation of Makoto Yukimura's manga is exceptional, delivering both visceral action and profound meditation on violence, revenge, and redemption. The animation from studio Wit (later MAPPA) is consistently gorgeous, bringing weight and consequence to every sword clash while capturing the harsh beauty of Nordic landscapes. What elevates Vinland Saga beyond typical historical action is its willingness to complicate and challenge its protagonist's quest for vengeance, exploring the human cost of violence on both personal and societal levels. The character development is patient and earned, particularly as Thorfinn confronts what his pursuit of revenge has cost him. It's mature, thoughtful storytelling that respects both history and emotional truth.
Masako Nozawa voices Goku in this legendary anime that transformed the shonen genre forever. Following the adventures of Earth's mightiest Saiyan warrior, the series delivers explosive battles, unforgettable power-ups, and emotional stakes that resonate across hundreds of episodes. Creator Akira Toriyama's vision comes alive through iconic arcs like the Frieza and Cell sagas, where each transformation and beam struggle becomes absolutely legendary. The English dub featuring Sean Schemmel has introduced generations of Western fans to Goku's heroic journey. Whether you're watching Goku go Super Saiyan for the first time or witnessing Gohan's ultimate sacrifice against Cell, this series delivers pure adrenaline and heart. The animation may show its age, but the storytelling remains timeless, blending martial arts spectacle with genuine character growth that keeps you invested through every Kamehameha and Spirit Bomb.
When an exiled prince gains a supernatural power that allows him to command anyone to obey his orders, he launches a calculated rebellion against the tyrannical empire that conquered his homeland. Code Geass is a masterclass in strategic storytelling, following Lelouch vi Britannia as he adopts the masked persona of Zero to liberate Japan from Britannian rule. Created by Gorō Taniguchi, this mecha anime brilliantly weaves political intrigue with intense action sequences and moral complexity that keeps you guessing until the final episode. Jun Fukuyama's performance as Lelouch captures both his genius intellect and tragic vulnerabilities perfectly. The series asks profound questions about justice, sacrifice, and whether noble ends justify brutal means. Every chess-like battle and surprising plot twist builds toward one of anime's most debated and brilliant conclusions. This isn't just another mecha show—it's a psychological thriller that happens to feature giant robots.
Dark, thrilling, and absolutely electrifying, this anime adaptation captures lightning in a bottle with its story of hunter Sung Jinwoo rising from weakest to godlike power. Based on Chugong's wildly popular web novel and manhwa, the series follows Jinwoo's transformation after a near-death experience in a dungeon grants him a mysterious leveling system visible only to him. The animation from A-1 Pictures is spectacular—fight sequences pulse with kinetic energy, and the monster designs are genuinely intimidating. What elevates this beyond typical power fantasy is the psychological weight of Jinwoo's journey and the strategic thinking required for each challenge. Voice actor Taito Ban perfectly captures the protagonist's evolution from desperate survivor to calculating force of nature. The pacing is relentless, the stakes feel real, and every episode leaves you craving the next. This is exactly what anime fans hungry for the next big thing have been waiting for.
Set in the imperial court of ancient China, this absolutely captivating anime follows Maomao, a brilliant young apothecary who's kidnapped and forced to work as a servant in the emperor's palace. What makes this series extraordinary is how it transforms the constrictive world of court intrigue into a stage for Maomao's sharp intellect and forensic skills—she becomes an unlikely detective, solving poisonings and medical mysteries while navigating the dangerous politics of the inner palace. The animation is gorgeous, bringing the opulent setting to life with meticulous detail, while the writing balances mystery, humor, and compelling character development. Maomao herself is a wonderfully refreshing protagonist: pragmatic, curious, and utterly uninterested in romance despite catching the eye of the enigmatic eunuch Jinshi. Based on the light novels by Natsu Hyuuga, it's a thoroughly engaging watch that keeps you guessing while delivering rich historical atmosphere.
In contemporary Tokyo, high school student Yuji Itadori discovers a world of curses and sorcery after encountering a cursed object at his school. Studio MAPPA's adaptation of Gege Akutami's manga brings kinetic energy to every fight sequence, with animation that sets a new standard for action anime. The premise—Yuji must consume cursed fingers to gain power while hosting a malevolent demon—provides perfect setup for exploring themes of sacrifice and humanity. What distinguishes this from typical shonen fare is its willingness to embrace genuine darkness; characters face real consequences, and victory often comes with devastating costs. Jujutsu Kaisen balances humor and horror effectively, with a supporting cast including the enigmatic Satoru Gojo becoming instant fan favorites. The Shibuya Incident arc showcases storytelling confidence rarely seen in the genre. This is modern shonen anime firing on all cylinders—thrilling, gorgeously animated, and unafraid to break your heart.
In contemporary Japan, middle schooler Shigeo Kageyama navigates the already complicated world of adolescence while possessing immense psychic powers he struggles to control. Known as "Mob" due to his flat affect and lack of presence, Shigeo works under the dubious psychic Reigen Arataka while trying to live a normal life and improve himself. Created by ONE and adapted by studio Bones, this anime stands out for its unique visual style that shifts dramatically during action sequences. The series brilliantly balances comedy, emotional growth, and spectacular supernatural battles, but what makes it truly special is its consistent message about the importance of human connection over raw power. The animation during psychic confrontations is genuinely inventive, and the character development remains surprisingly grounded despite the fantastical premise.
Two samurai warriors—one traditional and stoic, the other brash and unconventional—join a young woman searching for "the samurai who smells of sunflowers" in this Edo-period adventure from director Shinichirō Watanabe. The genius lies in Watanabe's anachronistic fusion of samurai tradition with hip-hop culture, featuring a soundtrack by the late Nujabes that shouldn't work but absolutely does. Each episode functions largely as a standalone story while building character relationships and moving the overarching quest forward incrementally. The animation from studio Manglobe showcases fluid fight choreography and distinctive character designs that reject typical anime aesthetics for something grittier and more grounded. Jin and Mugen's contrasting fighting styles—one refined, one chaotic—create dynamic action sequences, while Fuu provides emotional grounding and surprising agency. The show balances humor, action, and melancholy with remarkable confidence, creating something that feels both historically rooted and utterly timeless.
Hirohiko Araki's manga adaptation brings the wildly imaginative JoJo franchise to vivid animated life, following multiple generations of the Joestar family as they battle supernatural threats across different time periods. Each story arc, or "Part," features a new JoJo protagonist with unique abilities, from Jonathan's Hamon breathing techniques in Victorian England to Jotaro's Stand powers in 1980s Japan. David Production's adaptation honors Araki's distinctive art style with bold colors, dynamic poses, and creative visual flourishes that make every fight feel like a moving manga panel. The series embraces its own absurdity—characters are named after classic rock bands, battles rely on psychological gamesmanship as much as physical prowess, and dramatic declarations are delivered with maximum theatrical flair. While the tonal shifts between parts can be jarring, that variety keeps the formula fresh across multiple seasons. It's stylish, bizarre, and utterly confident in its own eccentric vision.
Manaka Iwami voices Tohru Honda, the eternally optimistic high school girl whose life takes an unexpected turn when she ends up living with the mysterious Soma family in this heartwarming reboot of the beloved manga series. Created by Yoshihide Ibata and adapted from Natsuki Takaya's source material, the 2019 version delivers a faithful and emotionally resonant take on the story of a cursed family and the girl who helps them heal. The animation is beautiful, the voice acting exceptional, and the exploration of trauma, acceptance, and found family feels deeper than ever. With Laura Bailey and Eric Vale leading the English dub cast, this series masterfully balances humor with genuinely moving moments that will have you reaching for tissues while still leaving you with a smile.
In this inventive Chinese anime series, two young men run a photo studio with an extraordinary secret—they can travel back in time through photographs to change the past for their clients. Cheng Xiaoshi possesses the ability to enter photos and inhabit the photographer's perspective, while Lu Guang can observe the timeline and guide his partner through potential dangers. Created by Li Haoling, "LINK CLICK" starts with seemingly straightforward missions that quickly reveal unexpected complexity and consequences. The show excels at building mysteries that span multiple episodes while delivering satisfying individual case stories. The animation style is distinctive and expressive, and the voice acting (available in both Mandarin and dubbed versions) conveys genuine emotional weight. What begins as a clever time-travel premise evolves into something deeper, exploring themes of grief, responsibility, and whether changing the past is ever truly justified.
In a fantastical medieval realm where kings are ranked by their power and prosperity, an unlikely hero emerges in Prince Bojji, a deaf and diminutive boy dismissed by nearly everyone as unfit to rule. This stunning anime series from WIT Studio, adapted from Sōsuke Tōka's manga, subverts fairy tale expectations at every turn while delivering genuine emotional depth. Bojji's friendship with Kage, a shadow creature and survivor of a massacred clan, forms the heartwarming core of a story that explores prejudice, ambition, and what true strength really means. The animation style initially appears deceptively simple and childlike, but it serves the storytelling beautifully, making the darker moments hit even harder. Directors Yōsuke Hatta crafts something truly special here—a series that appeals to all ages while never condescending to its audience, building a rich world filled with complex characters whose motivations constantly surprise you.
In a world where humanity has been driven to near extinction, the last survivors live within massive walled cities that protect them from man-eating giants known as Titans. Created by Hajime Isayama and adapted by Wit Studio and MAPPA, Attack on Titan follows Eren Yeager (voiced by Yuki Kaji in Japanese, Bryce Papenbrook in English) and his friends as they join the military to fight back against these mysterious creatures. What begins as a straightforward survival story evolves into a complex narrative exploring political intrigue, moral ambiguity, and the cyclical nature of violence. The animation is stunning, particularly during the high-octane action sequences featuring the ODM gear that allows soldiers to zip through the air. The series doesn't shy away from brutal deaths or difficult questions about freedom and oppression. With each season peeling back layers of mystery, the show builds toward revelations that recontextualize everything you thought you knew.
Profoundly moving and often heartbreaking, this anime adaptation of Yoshitoki Ōima's manga follows an immortal being's journey through centuries of human existence, learning what it means to live, love, and lose. The series begins with a stark simplicity—a mysterious orb sent to Earth that can take the form of whatever stimulates it—before evolving into something far more emotionally complex. As the being, eventually named Fushi, encounters various humans throughout its existence, each arc delivers powerful meditations on mortality, purpose, and connection. The animation from Brain's Base beautifully captures both quiet moments of contemplation and intense action sequences, while the voice acting conveys remarkable depth for a character learning humanity from scratch. Be warned: this series doesn't shy away from depicting death and grief, sometimes in ways that will leave you devastated. Yet there's an underlying hopefulness to To Your Eternity that makes the emotional journey worthwhile, creating something truly special in the anime landscape that lingers long after the credits roll.
At its heart, this is a story about finding connection and overcoming social anxiety through the transformative power of music and friendship. Hitori "Bocchi" Gotoh is a severely introverted high school girl who has spent years practicing guitar alone in her room, dreaming of joining a band but terrified of actually interacting with people. When she's unexpectedly recruited into a group called Kessoku Band, her journey from isolated bedroom musician to performing on stage becomes genuinely moving and often hilarious. The anime, adapted from Aki Hamazi's manga by CloverWorks, perfectly balances slice-of-life comedy with authentic portrayals of anxiety and the struggles of creative collaboration. The visual style is inventive, using abstract sequences and rapid shifts in animation to represent Bocchi's internal panic in ways that are both funny and relatable. The music itself is excellent, and the series respects both the craft of playing in a band and the vulnerability required to share your art with others.
This superhero anime reimagines the genre for a generation where extraordinary powers have become ordinary. Creator Kōhei Horikoshi's world features a society where 80% of people develop "Quirks"—unique superpowers—making young Izuku Midoriya's powerless status feel like a devastating disability. When Japan's greatest hero All Might sees potential in the determined boy, Midoriya's journey to becoming a professional hero begins at the prestigious U.A. High School. The series brilliantly balances shonen action tropes with genuine character development, giving depth to both heroes and villains. The animation from Studio Bones brings kinetic energy to the spectacular fight sequences, while the storytelling explores what heroism truly means in a world saturated with superpowers. It's earnest without being naive, exciting without sacrificing emotional stakes, and manages to make you care deeply about a large cast of students each discovering their own path to heroism.
In a Cold War-inspired nation where espionage and political tension simmer beneath everyday life, a spy, an assassin, and a telepath form a fake family for their respective missions, unaware of each other's true identities. This delightful anime adaptation of Tatsuya Endo's manga creates comedy gold from its central premise: three dangerous professionals pretending to be normal while hiding their real capabilities from one another. The animation from Wit Studio and CloverWorks brings kinetic energy to both action sequences and domestic comedy, while the writing finds endless variations on its core concept without losing charm. Anya, the telepathic adopted daughter who knows everyone's secrets, steals every scene with her reactions to the absurd situation she's navigating. The series balances heartfelt found-family themes with spy thriller elements and slapstick humor, creating something genuinely wholesome despite its premise involving assassins and espionage. It's proof that high-concept ideas work best when grounded in character and emotion.
Yūki Tabata's manga adaptation follows Asta, a magic-less boy in a world where everyone wields supernatural power, as he pursues his dream of becoming the Wizard King through sheer determination and physical prowess. Studio Pierrot's long-running shonen series delivers exactly what fans of the genre crave: underdog triumph, escalating battles, found family dynamics, and a protagonist whose refusal to give up becomes genuinely inspiring. The English dub featuring Dallas Reid and the Japanese cast led by Gakuto Kajiwara both capture Asta's infectious enthusiasm, even when his shouting might test patience in early episodes. The animation quality varies but consistently delivers when battles matter most, and the series earns its emotional moments through steady character development. It's a love letter to shonen anime conventions that executes familiar formulas with enough heart and energy to stand among the genre's better entries.
The battle between humanity and kaiju takes an unexpected turn when everyman Kafka Hibino, whose dreams of joining the Defense Force have long faded, suddenly finds himself transformed into the very monster he's sworn to fight. This anime adaptation brilliantly explores the tension between Kafka's human consciousness and monstrous form, while surrounding him with a compelling cast of Defense Force members who would destroy him if they discovered his secret. The animation studio Production I.G brings spectacular action sequences and genuine emotional weight to what could have been a standard transformation story. What elevates the series is its focus on second chances and perseverance—Kafka is older than typical anime protagonists, adding poignancy to his determination. The supporting cast, from childhood friend Mina Ashiro to rival Reno Ichikawa, receives meaningful development beyond their archetypes. It's a fresh take on both kaiju and superhero genres that delivers thrilling battles alongside heartfelt character moments.