7 Best Anime of the 2010s That Changed the Way the World Sees Japanese Animation

Kapanlagi.com - The 2010s era became a golden age for the world of anime. Amid the development of streaming services, fans gained easier access to various titles from around the world. This period marks the global resurgence of anime with high-quality animation and meaningful stories that shape the tastes of today's viewers.

Unlike the previous decade, anime in the 2010s not only entertained but also deepened the meaning of life, morality, and human relationships. From complex time travel stories to emotionally charged mecha battles, each work presents strong characters and immersive worlds that are hard to forget.

Through seven major titles that became icons, this era redefined what it means to be a "masterpiece of anime." These works are not just spectacles but reflections of the complexities of human emotions, technology, and modern philosophy that remain relevant to this day.

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1. Steins;Gate (2011)

Discover the best anime that defined the 2010s (credit:imdb)

Steins;Gate tells the story of Rintarou Okabe, a mad scientist obsessed with time travel. What seems like a simple experiment turns into a disaster when he is actually able to manipulate the past and the future.

This anime combines science and emotion in a way that has never been done before. Each episode gradually builds tension, creating a domino effect that alters the fate of all the characters. Steins;Gate has become a benchmark for anime themed on time travel with its clever narration and surprises.

2. Hunter x Hunter (2011)

Discover the best anime that define the 2010s (credit:imdb)

HUNTER X HUNTER 2011 version successfully perfects the previous adaptation and tells the story of Gon Freecss in search of his father. However, behind the simple premise, this anime delves into the dark side of human ambition and the price of true power.

Known for its complex "Nen" power system, this anime proves that adventure is not just about fighting. It becomes a representation of morality and human relationships in a world full of dangers and difficult decisions.

3. Parasyte: The Maxim (2014)

Discover the best anime that define the 2010s (credit:imdb)

PARASYTE: THE MAXIM presents the story of Shinichi Izumi, whose life changes after an alien parasite fails to take over his brain and instead resides in his hand. From there, a symbiotic relationship forms between the human and the alien creature.

This anime transcends the boundaries of the horror genre by weaving in profound reflections on humanity, ethics, and survival. It questions who is truly "human" in a world hungry for power and ego.

4. Ping Pong the Animation (2014)

Discover the best anime that defined the 2010s (credit:imdb)

Despite its unusual experimental animation style, PING PONG THE ANIMATION successfully presents a deeply emotional sports story. The narrative focuses on two friends, Smile and Peco, who take different paths toward their dreams in the world of table tennis.

Through dynamic visuals and sharp camera perspectives, this anime depicts inner struggles, ambitions, and feelings of loss. Ping Pong the Animation proves that true victory is not always on the podium, but in the ability to accept oneself.

5. Mobile Suit Gundam: Iron-Blooded Orphans (2015)

Discover the best anime that defined the 2010s (credit:imdb)

The series IRON-BLOODED ORPHANS takes the audience into a world of politics and war driven by orphaned children. Led by Mikazuki Augus, the Tekkadan group fights to maintain their dignity and freedom amidst interplanetary conflict.

This anime shakes the emotions of its viewers with a brutal and realistic story. It teaches that war is not just about winning or losing, but about the identity and sacrifices left on the battlefield.

6. March Comes In Like a Lion (2016)

Discover the best anime that defined the 2010s (credit:imdb)

MARCH COMES IN LIKE A LION highlights the life of Rei Kiriyama, a young shogi player who lives in solitude after losing his family. Through his encounters with the Kawamoto family, he gradually learns to understand the meaning of family and affection.

With beautiful visuals and gentle animation, this anime becomes one of the most human works of the 2010s. The story is not only about shogi but also about healing emotional wounds and the beauty of human empathy.

7. Mob Psycho 100 (2016)

Discover the best anime that defined the 2010s (credit:imdb)

Shigeo Kageyama or "Mob" is a teenager with extraordinary psychic powers who chooses not to use them in order to be an ordinary human. Behind its action story, this anime presents a strong message about self-acceptance and the meaning of true happiness.

Each battle in MOB PSYCHO 100 depicts the human inner conflict between power and morality. With its unique animation style and energetic plot, this anime closes the decade of the 2010s with a profound introspective message.

8. Popular Q&A About Anime in the 2010s

Q: Why is the 2010s anime considered the best era?
A: Because during this time, anime reached the peak of visual quality, storytelling, and widespread global access thanks to streaming platforms.

Q: What is the most influential anime of the 2010s?
A: Steins;Gate and Hunter x Hunter are often cited as the most influential series due to their thematic depth and narrative innovation.

Q: Are 2010s anime still relevant to watch today?
A: Yes, because many titles from this decade carry universal messages and production quality that still rivals modern anime.

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(kpl/vna)