Anime has changed significantly over the past decade, with most studios opting for shorter seasons rather than continuous, multi-year runs. This shift helps maintain animation quality, prevents burnout, and keeps fans engaged. However, long-running anime still hold a special place for those who enjoy deep storytelling, expansive world-building, and the thrill of following a saga for years.
For fans looking for a long-term anime commitment, here are some of the best long-running anime worth watching.
10. Bleach
- Studio: Pierrot
- Creator: Tite Kubo
- First Aired: 2004
- Episodes: 366 (plus Thousand-Year Blood War)
- Movies: 4
Why It’s Worth Watching:
Bleach follows Ichigo Kurosaki, a high schooler who accidentally gains the powers of a Soul Reaper, protectors of the afterlife who battle monstrous Hollows. What starts as a simple story about hunting spirits quickly expands into an epic saga filled with powerful enemies, soul-shattering battles, and deep lore.
With over 200 non-filler episodes, Bleach offers some of the best shonen action and visual storytelling. The latest Thousand-Year Blood War arc has only raised the bar, making it a great time to jump in.
9. Kinnikuman
- Studios: Toei Animation, Production I.G
- Creator: Yudetamago
- First Aired: 1983
- Episodes: Over 150 (multiple series)
Why It’s Worth Watching:
Originally a superhero parody, Kinnikuman evolved into a wrestling epic filled with intense tournament arcs, over-the-top action, and legendary rivalries.
While it’s not as well-known outside Japan, the series’ mix of comedy, heart, and action has made it a shonen classic. The 2024 revival, Kinnikuman: Perfect Origin Arc, proves that this anime still has plenty of fight left.
8. Digimon
- Studio: Toei Animation
- First Aired: 1999
- Episodes: 9 different series, over 500 episodes
- Movies: 17
Why It’s Worth Watching:
Unlike Pokémon, Digimon is an anthology series, meaning each new series brings a fresh story and characters, but all revolve around kids befriending digital creatures to protect both Earth and the Digital World.
With diverse themes, dark and mature storytelling, and great character growth, Digimon stands out as one of the best long-running anime franchises, offering something new with every installment.
7. Pokémon
- Studio: OLM, Inc.
- First Aired: 1997
- Episodes: Over 1,300
- Current Series: Pokémon Horizons
Why It’s Worth Watching:
For over two decades, Pokémon followed Ash Ketchum on his journey to become a Pokémon Master. Now, the franchise continues with Pokémon Horizons, introducing new characters and adventures.
With its timeless appeal, exciting battles, and memorable creatures, Pokémon is an anime that never gets old, no matter where you start.
6. JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure
- Studio: David Production
- Creator: Hirohiko Araki
- First Aired: 2012
- Episodes: 190+ (6 parts)
Why It’s Worth Watching:
JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure is a generational epic, with each season following a different member of the Joestar family as they battle bizarre and supernatural enemies.
With unique storytelling, over-the-top battles, and iconic characters, JoJo remains one of the most stylish and creative anime ever made. And with rumors of Steel Ball Run being adapted soon, now is the perfect time to start.
5. Naruto
- Studio: Pierrot
- Creator: Masashi Kishimoto
- First Aired: 2002
- Episodes: 720 (including Shippuden)
- Movies: 11
Why It’s Worth Watching:
Naruto tells the story of Naruto Uzumaki, a ninja ostracized for holding the Nine-Tailed Fox spirit inside him. His journey from an outcast to the strongest ninja and leader of his village is one of the most compelling anime sagas.
With intense battles, memorable villains, and deep themes of friendship and perseverance, Naruto is a must-watch for shonen fans. The sequel, Boruto, continues the legacy with a new generation of ninjas.
4. Detective Conan (Case Closed)
- Studio: TMS Entertainment
- Creator: Gosho Aoyama
- First Aired: 1996
- Episodes: Over 1,000
- Movies: 28
Why It’s Worth Watching:
Detective Conan follows Shinichi Kudo, a teenage detective who is transformed into a child after being poisoned by a criminal syndicate. Under his new identity, Conan Edogawa, he continues to solve mysteries while tracking down the people who did this to him.
With brilliant cases, memorable characters, and a slow-burning overarching mystery, Detective Conan is perfect for fans of detective stories and crime dramas.
3. Dragon Ball
- Studio: Toei Animation
- Creator: Akira Toriyama
- First Aired: 1986
- Episodes: Over 600 (Z, Super, GT)
- Movies: 21
Why It’s Worth Watching:
From Goku’s early adventures to universe-shattering battles, Dragon Ball has defined shonen anime for decades.
The series evolves from a martial arts fantasy into an intergalactic warzone, introducing powerful warriors, legendary transformations, and unforgettable moments. With Dragon Ball Super continuing, it remains a must-watch for action lovers.
2. The Nasuverse (Fate Series & More)
- Studio: Multiple
- Creator: Type-Moon, Kinoko Nasu
- First Aired: 2006 (Fate/stay night)
- Episodes: Multiple series
Why It’s Worth Watching:
The Nasuverse includes the Fate series, Tsukihime, The Garden of Sinners, and more. Each series offers complex storytelling, deep lore, and incredible action.
With multiple viewing orders, this franchise is a huge commitment, but each installment offers unique and breathtaking experiences.
1. One Piece
- Studio: Toei Animation
- Creator: Eiichiro Oda
- First Aired: 1999
- Episodes: Over 1,000
- Movies: 15
Why It’s Worth Watching:
One Piece follows Monkey D. Luffy and his pirate crew as they search for the legendary treasure, the One Piece, in a world of powerful foes, epic battles, and deep lore.
With one of the best stories ever told in anime, One Piece rewards long-term investment, making it the ultimate long-running anime worth watching.
