7 must-see animes without a single bad episode

Sometimes an animated series gets almost everything right, but it also narrowly misses perfection. Whether it contains ample and unnecessary filler, lacks meaningful character growth, or contains unwelcome retooling, even the best shows can lose perfect continuity. However, over the years, many releases have managed to start and end without compromising quality. Whether it's a comedy that makes viewers laugh out loud every episode or a horror series that continually builds tension for an inevitable payoff, these anime are perfect for binge-watching sessions.

There are plenty of other 'perfect' anime series out there, but we've chosen these seven to get you started, as they are currently available to watch on major streaming services. There's something for every type of viewer here, from suspense and surreal comedy to action-adventure and fantasy. It may also be the perfect opportunity to step out of your comfort zone and try something new.

Summer Hikaru is dead

Yoshiki Tsujinaka is a teenager in rural Japan who, like most young people, has a best friend. But one day, when his friend Hikaru India turns up after going missing while hiking for several days, something about him doesn't seem right. It turns out Hikaru died on the mountain, and his body was taken over by a strange, eldritch entity. This monster has the same emotions and memories as the original, but Yoshiki can still tell subtle differences. Regardless of what happened to Hikaru, Yoshiki doesn't want to lose his friend, but it's easier said than done.

It is an adaptation of Mokumokuren's manga series of the same name. Summer Hikaru is dead was released on Netflix to viewers around the world in 2025 and quickly became very popular. The bizarre art style and unique horror elements set it apart from others in the genre, and the mix of horror and slice-of-life with the main characters makes each episode a pleasure to watch. It's hard to let go of a friend, and it's even harder when that friend is no longer human.

licorice recoil

Released to immediate fanfare in 2022, licorice recoil It tells the story of Chisato Takinawa, two orphaned teenage girls who are recruited by a secret government agency to become assassins. While working undercover in cafes during the day, effortlessly eliminating criminals and terrorists threatening Tokyo at night, Takina is always cool and collected, while Chisato brings a lot of loud energy to the outing. The series balances energetic, fast-paced action with more cozy, slower scenes of the duo playing regular high school students, making each episode somewhat unpredictable.

licorice recoil There's a good reason why is one of the most popular and acclaimed anime series of 2022. The approach to humor, epic battle scenes, and larger plot make for addictive binge-watching, and not a single scene feels unintentional or unnecessary, as the growing relationship between Takina and Chisato is especially enjoyable to watch. At only 13 episodes, it's a quick watch and one that most viewers won't soon forget.

86: 86

Asato This is an adaptation of Asato's science fiction light novel series. 86: 86 It's one of the most emotionally taxing series of the last decade, but it's well worth watching from start to finish. Set in the fictional Republic of San Margolia, a brutal war has been going on for nine years. Civilians believe that autonomous machines are doing the fighting, but the truth is much more brutal. A citizen named 86 is acting as a pilot and is effectively facing death. Although the 86 once had equal rights, they were effectively made scapegoats by the dominant Alba race and forced to fight as they were called subhumans. Alba Lena is one of the few who learns about each of the 86 members, humanizes them, and attempts to change them.

On the surface 86: 86 Impressive CG animation, character design, soundtrack, fight scenes, and smooth direction make it an enjoyable watch. Digging deeper, the story and characters are the driving force behind the ongoing popularity of the 23-episode series full of twists and turns. Themes of inequality and grief make this a heavy watch, but there may be lessons to be learned.

Freeren: Beyond the end of the journey

Those who are not trapped freeren– Considering the series' immense popularity in the anime community and record viewership ratings since the first season premiered in 2023, enthusiasts may be living under a rock. Known as a former sorceress from a group of legendary adventurers famous for defeating the Demon Lord decades ago, Frieren and her new apprentice Fern, as well as the young Frontline Stark, begin to explore magical knowledge in hopes of defeating evil and seeing the resting soul of the hero Himmel once again. Given her long lifespan, Frieren often reminisces about times spent on her great journey years ago, and this combined with her new relationships makes this one series for the ages.

To call Freeren: Beyond the end of the journey To say it is popular is an understatement. On Rotten Tomatoes, both seasons of the show have achieved an incredible 100% rating, and the series currently boasts the highest MAL score of the Winter 2026 anime season at 9.18. It's hard to easily sum up what makes it so great, but the fantastic world building, lovable characters, soundtrack and general 'side quest' energy make it easy to get hooked. Despite what some may say, freeren It's far from overrated.

It is the first adaptation of Shoji Kato's action science fiction light novel series, released in 2002. full metal panic It's a masterclass in combining military science fiction and complex machinery with heartfelt romantic comedy. Sosuke Sagara is a young member of the secret counter-terrorism militia Mitiril, who is suddenly ordered to protect Kaname Chidori, a Japanese high school student who doesn't seem at all ordinary. As it turns out, Kaname has some unique powers that make her very attractive to villains, and it would be of no use if Kaname captured her.

Although the animation isn't always perfect full metal panic From the well-crafted machinery and impressive action scenes to the slow-burning relationship between Kaname and the military-obsessed Sousuke, there's too much going on to be left to the annals of time. The series also mixes standard slapstick and dark comedy in unexpected moments, and each of its 24 episodes is a proper rollercoaster ride.

Asobi Asobase

There are countless examples of comedy animations, but they rarely make viewers' stomachs hurt from laughter from the first scene of episode one to the final moments of the series. Asobi Asobase In a word, it's outrageous, and that's its beauty. The 12-episode series tells the story of three high school students, Hanako, Olivia, and Kasumi, who create their own unknown after-school club. As members of the Pastimers Club, the three get into random mischief, including writing questionable fanfiction, playing dangerous board games, and cutting hair. It all sounds harmless, but these painfully funny girls have a way of turning everything into pure chaos.

Featuring Japanese voice actors Asobi Asobase Hina Kino, the actress behind Hanako, has a way of pushing herself to the absolute limit to make every joke a huge hit, which is a big part of why it's so enjoyable to watch. The art is weird, the plot is wacky, and the experimental heavy metal ending theme is just the icing on the cake.

Faraway Paladin

If you're a fan of classic fantasy, take the time to watch the 2021 installment. Faraway PaladinIt is a faithful adaptation of Yanagino Kanata's ongoing light novel series. Will, a human child living in a dead city far from civilization, is raised by three undead. They do their best to instill their values ​​and wisdom in the young people, but the trio is not surprised when Will leaves to find others like him. Will, who signs a contract with Gracefeel, the goddess of light, and does his best to become a paladin, meets new friends and embarks on an amazing adventure.

simplicity Faraway Paladin Delightful visuals, expert writing, and heroic characters come together to give viewers the feeling that anything is possible. Each episode is a testament to Will's strong character, and it's a joy to watch him grow throughout the series. Sometimes a simple adventure is all you need.