Top 25 Best Underrated Action Anime Of All Time
For a very long time, anime has been a source of fascinating narratives, fantastical settings, and beautiful animation.
In particular, the action genre provides a broad variety of thrilling and heart-pounding anime that keeps spectators on the edge of their seats.
Note: This was only edited, not originally written, by Cody Perez. This post may not necessarily reflect the views of Cody.
Unfortunately, despite their superb storyline and animation, certain anime in this category sometimes go overlooked and undervalued.
To showcase some of the most thrilling and undervalued anime that are worth seeing, we've compiled a list of the Top 25 Greatest Underrated Action Anime.
You won't want to miss any of the hidden treasures on this list, whether you're an avid action anime lover or just searching for something new to watch.
1. Koutetsujou No Kabaneri
| Things to Know | Details |
| Studio | Wit Studio |
| Source | Original |
| Premiered | April 8, 2016 – June 30, 2016 |
| Duration (min per ep) | 22 |
| MAL Score | 7.251 |
Koutetsujou No Kabaneri, commonly known as Kabaneri of the Iron Fortress, is an underappreciated action anime set in a post-apocalyptic world invaded by zombie-like creatures known as Kabane.
In a last-ditch effort to reach safety and thwart the Kabane danger, a group of survivors boards a huge, armored train.
The show has spectacular action scenes, excellent animation, and well-developed characters that go through many trials and difficulties throughout the story.
It also examines issues like trust, atonement, and survival on a planet that is on the verge of extinction.
The underappreciated steampunk, action, and horror film Koutetsujou No Kabaneri deserves to be known more.
2. Tokyo Ghoul: Re 2nd Season
| Things to Know | Details |
| Studio | Studio Pierrot, Pierrot Plus |
| Source | Oct 9, 2018, to Dec 25, 2018 |
| Premiered | Manga |
| Duration (min per ep) | 24 |
| MAL Score | 6.361 |
Tokyo Ghoul: Re 2nd Season is an action anime that follows Ken Kaneki's narrative. He is a half-ghoul college student who tries to fit in in a society where humans and ghouls are frequently in conflict.
While attempting to understand who he is, he is caught up in a battle between ghouls and the CCG, a government agency.
The show has complicated plotting, compelling character development, and powerful action scenes.
It looks at issues like identity, prejudice, and the quest for power. Also, it provides a distinctive fusion of psychological and horror aspects that keeps spectators on the edge of their seats.
The underappreciated action anime Tokyo Ghoul: Re 2nd Season provides a satisfying finish to the Tokyo Ghoul tale with clever twists and a strong message about the value of acceptance and understanding.
3. Trigun
| Things to Know | Details |
| Studio | Madhouse |
| Source | Manga |
| Premiered | Apr 1, 1998, to Sep 30, 1998 |
| Duration (min per ep) | 24 |
| MAL Score | 8.231 |
Trigun is a post-apocalyptic action anime set in a world where society has fallen and people dwell in small, isolated communities.
Vash the Stampede, a proficient gunslinger known for wreaking havoc wherever he goes, is the main character of the story.
Vash's exact identity is a mystery, although he is essentially a pacifist who favors nonviolent conflict resolution.
The show has a distinct western-inspired design, powerful action scenes, and an engaging plot that looks at issues like morality, atonement, and the worth of life.
It also has a wide range of interesting characters with complex backstories and individual motives, which provides for an emotional and compelling viewing experience.
Trigun is an underrated action anime that focuses on character growth and ethical concerns while offering a unique and entertaining perspective on the genre. For lovers of the genre seeking something unique and thought-provoking, it's a must-watch.
4. Overlord
| Things to Know | Details |
| Studio | Madhouse |
| Source | Manga |
| Premiered | 2015 |
| Duration (min per ep) | 24 |
| MAL Score | 7.765 |
The action anime Overlord is based on Momonga's tale. He is a strong wizard who became stuck in a VR game when the game's servers crashed.
He decides to conquer the game's universe and establish himself as its monarch while he adjusts to his new reality.
He started assembling an army and tackling the most difficult difficulties in the game utilizing his strength and expertise.
The show has fantastic animation, intricate and well-developed plot lines, and exciting combat. It examines issues like ethics, loyalty, and the effects of ultimate authority.
Overlord is an underappreciated masterpiece that should receive greater respect from lovers of this genre. Due to its distinct idea and combination of action, adventure, and fantasy aspects, it is a great anime to watch.
5. Banana Fish
| Things to Know | Details |
| Studio | MAPPA |
| Source | Manga |
| Premiered | 2018 |
| Duration | 24 min. per ep. |
| MAL Score | 7.594 |
A teenage gang boss named Ash Lynx is the focus of the action anime Banana Fish. He becomes involved in a plot regarding the enigmatic substance “Banana Fish.”
To learn the truth about the drug and its beginnings, he must negotiate the hazardous world of organized crime and government corruption.
The show examines issues like trauma, abuse, and the battle for power via breathtaking animation, gripping action scenes, and a gritty narrative.
It also has a well-developed ensemble of characters, each with their distinct motives and backstories, making for an emotionally fascinating viewing experience.
A realistic representation of the criminal underground and its effects on society can be found in the underappreciated action anime Banana Fish.
It provides a sophisticated and thought-provoking perspective on the genre. For aficionados of the genre who are seeking something unique and emotionally stirring, it is a must-watch.
6. InuYasha
| Things to Know | Details |
| Studio | Sunrise |
| Source | Manga |
| Premiered | Oct 16, 2000 |
| Duration (min per ep) | 24 |
| MAL Score | 8.420 |
The anime and manga series Inuyasha centers on the escapades of a young girl named Kagome. She travels back in time and encounters Inuyasha, a half-demon, in feudal Japan.
Along the way, they face off against demons and other enemies who want to wield their power as they set out on a journey to gather the fragments of a potent diamond that has been spread over the countryside.
The show is renowned for its compelling narrative, richly realized characters, and distinctive fusion of mythology, romance, and action.
Also, it looks at topics like love, sorrow, and forgiveness, which makes it accessible to a broad audience.
Many spin-off series, films, and products have been created as a result of Inuyasha, a cherished anime classic that continues to be popular today.
7. Akira
| Things to Know | Details |
| Studio | Tokyo Movie Shinsha |
| Source | Manga |
| Premiered | 1988 |
| Duration | 2 hr. 4 min. |
| MAL Score | 8.161 |
The action anime classic Akira is set in a post-apocalyptic Neo-Tokyo. It tells the tale of a member of a biker gang named Kaneda and his companion Tetsuo as they become caught up in a government plot utilizing psychic abilities.
The movie had thrilling action scenes, gorgeous animation that still looks amazing today, and a convoluted, thought-provoking narrative.
It examines issues like corruption, power, and the risks involved with experimenting with forces that are outside of our control. It also focuses on topics like socioeconomic injustice and how technology is affecting society.
The landmark movie Akira contributed to the Westernization of animation. In the years that followed, it had an impact on many science fiction and action novels. It is still a timeless masterpiece that merits praise for the genre it helped to create.
8. Ao No Exorcist: Kyoto Fujouou-Hen
| Things to Know | Details |
| Studio | A-1 Pictures |
| Source | Manga |
| Premiered | Jan 7, 2017, to Mar 25, 2017 |
| Duration (min per ep) | 24 |
| MAL Score | 7.391 |
The action anime Ao no Exorcist: Kyoto Fujouou-hen, commonly known as Blue Exorcist: Kyoto Saga, centers on Rin Okumura, a young exorcist who learns that he is the son of Satan.
In attempting to master his demonic abilities and battle the evil influence of his father, he must negotiate the perilous realm of exorcists and demons.
The show's engaging tale addresses topics like family, identity, and the conflict between good and evil. It also has amazing animation, powerful action scenes, and gripping action scenes.
It also has a wide range of compelling, well-developed characters and each has a distinct personality and motivations, which makes for an emotional and interesting viewing experience.
Ao no Exorcist: Kyoto Fujouou-hen is an underappreciated action anime with a distinctive fusion of supernatural and religious elements that gives a new and compelling perspective on the genre.
9. Boruto: Naruto Next Generations
| Things to Know | Details |
| Studio | Pierrot |
| Source | Manga |
| Premiered | 5 April 2017 |
| Duration (min per ep) | 22 |
| MAL Score | 7.850 |
The action anime Boruto: Naruto Future Generations is based on the life of Naruto Uzumaki's son. He develops his ninja skills to save his community.
Despite the series' sluggish pacing and comparisons to its forerunner, Naruto, it nonetheless has intriguing character development and thrilling action scenes.
The new group of characters in Boruto each has their specialties and characteristics as they take on fresh problems and evildoers.
The show also examines issues like friendship, family, and the obligations of being a ninja. While Boruto may not have the same degree of popularity as Naruto, it is still a compelling and enjoyable action anime that should be given greater consideration by aficionados of the genre.
10. Kami No Tou
| Things to Know | Details |
| Studio | Telecom Animation Film |
| Source | Web manga |
| Premiered | Apr 2, 2020 to Jun 25, 2020 |
| Duration (min per ep) | 23 |
| MAL Score | 7.601 |
A young boy named Bam explores a mysterious tower in search of his buddy Rachel in the action anime Kami No Tou, commonly known as Tower of God.
He makes friends with other competitors who are ascending the tower for different reasons as he goes.
To advance to the upper levels, players must now complete risky tests and tasks. Intense action scenes and beautiful animation are included in the series.
The intricate storyline examines concepts like loyalty, treachery, and the quest for power. Also, it features compelling individuals with distinctive motivations and backstories.
As a result, watching becomes interesting and immersive. With a distinct location and plot that keep viewers interested from the very beginning, Kami No Tou is an underappreciated action anime that gives a novel perspective on the isekai subgenre.
If you enjoy this type of anime and want to see something unique and thought-provoking, you should see it.
11. The God Of High School
| Things to Know | Details |
| Studio | MAPPA |
| Source | Web manga |
| Premiered | Jul 6, 2020, to Sep 28, 2020 |
| Duration (min per ep) | 23 |
| MAL Score | 7.051 |
The God of High School is an underestimated action anime that tells the tale of three high school students who take part in “The God of High School,” a martial arts competition.
The show has thrilling battles, superb animation, and a wide range of characters who each bring their fighting techniques and personalities to the competition.
In addition to the action, the show also examines concepts like friendship, loyalty, and personal development as the participants gain knowledge through their experiences in the competition.
The God of High School is an exciting and enjoyable anime that merits greater praise for its intense action and compelling plot.
12. Gate: Jieitai Kanochi Nite, Kaku Tatakaeri
| Things to Know | Details |
| Studio | A-1 Pictures |
| Source | Light novel |
| Premiered | Jul 4, 2015, to Sep 19, 2015 |
| Duration (min per ep) | 23 |
| MAL Score | 7.721 |
Gate: Jieitai Kanochi Nite, Kaku Tatakaeri is an action anime that chronicles the exploits of a contemporary military squad. It passes through the “Gate,” a strange gateway that leads to a fantastical realm.
They are navigating a world of magic, dragons, and other fantastic creatures when they find themselves in the center of a struggle between the citizens of the fantasy realm and their government.
The show has complicated plotting and characters, and powerful action scenes. It examines issues including morality, diplomacy, and the effects of conflict.
Also, it provides a distinctive fusion of fantasy and military aspects, which makes for a fun and interesting viewing experience.
Gate: Jieitai Kanochi Nite, Kaku Tatakaeri, an underappreciated action anime with a concentration on military tactics and strategy, gives a novel perspective on the isekai subgenre. For aficionados of the genre who want to see something new and unusual, it's a must-watch.
13. Hellsing
| Things to Know | Details |
| Studio | Madhouse, Satelight, Graphinica |
| Source | Manga |
| Premiered | Feb 10, 2006 to Dec 26, 2012 |
| Duration (min per ep) | 50 |
| MAL Score | 8.381 |
Action animation Hellsing tells the tale of the Hellsing Organization, a covert organization of vampire hunters headed by the formidable Alucard.
The group's goal is to defend England from the perils posed by vampires and other paranormal creatures.
Alucard must face his history as the series goes on and contend with formidable foes that seek to obliterate all he stands for.
Power, morality, and the essence of mankind are just a few of the captivating topics that are explored in this series' dark and gloomy animation, powerful action scenes, and gripping narrative.
It also has a wide range of compelling, well-developed characters and each has distinct personalities and motivations, which makes for an emotional and interesting viewing experience.
With a focus on nuanced characters and moral complexity, Hellsing is an underappreciated action anime that provides a novel and intriguing take on the vampire hunter genre. If you are searching for something dark, deep, and thought-provoking, it's a must-watch.
14. FLCL
| Things to Know | Details |
| Studio | Gainax, Production I.G |
| Source | Original |
| Premiered | Apr 26, 2000 to Mar 16, 2001 |
| Duration (min per ep) | 25 |
| MAL Score | 8.031 |
FLCL, also known as Fooly Cooly, is a genre-defying action anime that combines aspects of humor, coming-of-age, and science fiction.
The narrative centers on a little child named Naota who lives in what appears to be a typical community. Then Haruko, a mystery girl, rides up on her scooter and permanently alters his life.
The show has a fascinating array of characters, each with their idiosyncrasies and goals, as well as strange and unusual animation, and fast-paced action scenes.
Also, it examines issues like adolescence, self-discovery, and the capacity for creativity. Throughout the years, FLCL has developed a devoted following as a cult favorite. Nonetheless, it merits greater praise for its unique and inventive narrative.
15. Toaru Majutsu No Index
| Things to Know | Details |
| Studio | J.C.Staff |
| Source | Light novel |
| Premiered | Oct 5, 2008 to Mar 19, 2009 |
| Duration (min per ep) | 23 |
| MAL Score | 7.411 |
Toaru Majutsu no Index, popularly known as A Certain Magical Index, is a Japanese action anime set in a universe where science and magic coexist. The plot centers on a high school kid named Toma Kamijo who has a special ability that can neutralize all supernatural prowess.
He becomes embroiled in a fight between several groups, including magicians, espionage groups, and religious institutions, who are battling for control of the city.
Power, morality, and the nature of reality are just a few of the complex plot many topics that are explored in this series.
It also has amazing animation and dramatic action scenes. It also has a wide range of interesting, fully realized characters, each with their special skills and characteristics.
Toaru Majutsu no Index is an underappreciated action anime that delivers a distinct fusion of science fiction and fantasy, as well as a complex and compelling world-building that engages viewers in the narrative.
16. Tensei Shitara Slime Datta Ken
| Things to Know | Details |
| Studio | Eight Bit |
| Source | Light Novel |
| Premiered | October 2, 2018, to March 19, 2019 |
| Duration (min per ep) | 24 |
| MAL Score | 8.058 |
The underappreciated action anime Tensei Shitara Slime Datta Ken, better known as That Time I Was Reincarnated as a Slime, blends humor, adventure, and fantasy to produce a distinctive and enjoyable series.
The narrative centers on a guy who, in a fantastical universe, gets reborn as a slime. He acquires amazing abilities and embarks on a mission to find new friends and allies while defending his newly discovered home from several dangers.
The show features gorgeous animation, thrilling action sequences, and a diverse cast of characters that includes both allies and foes.
It also examines concepts like friendship, loyalty, and selflessness, making it a complex and interesting anime. Tensei Shitara Slime Datta Ken is an underappreciated masterpiece anime that deserves more attention.
17. Dungeon Ni Deai Wo Motomeru No Wa Machigatteiru Darou Ka II
| Things to Know | Details |
| Studio | J.C.Staff |
| Source | Light novel |
| Premiered | Jul 13, 2019, to Sep 28, 2019 |
| Duration (min per ep) | 24 |
| MAL Score | 7.231 |
Is It Bad to Attempt to Pick Up Girls in a Dungeon? II is also known as Dungeon ni Deai wo Motomeru no wa Machigatteiru Darou ka.
A perilous world filled with dungeons that adventurers explore in pursuit of gold and renown is the setting for this action anime.
It tells the tale of Bell Cranel, a young explorer driven to grow stronger and defend those who matter to him.
The show has amazing animation, exciting action scenes, and an engaging plot that covers ideas like self-discovery, loyalty, and friendship ties.
It also has a wide range of interesting, fully realized characters, each with their special skills and characteristics.
Dungeon ni Deai wo Motomeru no wa Machigatteiru Darou ka II is an underestimated action anime that gives a cheerful and entertaining perspective on the genre, with a distinctive and engrossing universe that embodies the spirit of exploration.
If you enjoy this kind of entertainment and want to feel good, you should watch it.
18. Accel World
| Things to Know | Details |
| Studio | Sunrise |
| Source | Light novel |
| Premiered | Apr 7, 2012, to Sep 22, 2012 |
| Duration (min per ep) | 24 |
| MAL Score | 7.281 |
Accel World is an action anime set shortly when a virtual reality technology known as “Neuro Linker” is used. Employing a brain-computer interface, it enables users to connect to the internet and communicate with one another.
The plot centers on Haruyuki Arita, a harassed high school student who was secluded until he came upon the enigmatic application “Brain Burst.”
Because it enables him to move quickly and think quickly in a virtual reality combat game.
The series covers topics like friendship, self-discovery, and the influence of technology on society via breathtaking animation, thrilling action sequences, and a complicated narrative.
It also has a wide range of interesting, fully realized characters, each with their special skills and objectives.
With an emphasis on digital reality and the effects of technology on people, Accel World is an underappreciated action anime that gives an original and thought-provoking perspective on the genre.
For aficionados of the genre seeking something fresh and thought-provoking, it's a must-watch.
19. Owari No Seraph
| Things to Know | Details |
| Studio | Wit Studio |
| Source | Manga |
| Premiered | Apr 4, 2015, to Jun 20, 2015 |
| Duration (min per ep) | 23 |
| MAL Score | 7.491 |
Owari No Seraph, commonly referred to as Seraph of the End, is an underappreciated post-apocalyptic action anime.
The surviving humanity is now under the control of vampires. The plot centers on a young kid named Yuuichirou who enlists in the military to combat vampires and learn the truth about their world.
The series is known for its violent action sequences, complex world-building, and fully realized characters that go through trials and tribulations throughout the story.
It also examines issues like friendship, family, and the price of surviving in a cruel and harsh world. Owari No Seraph is a captivating and exhilarating anime that merits greater praise for its distinctive fusion of action and drama.
20. High School DxD
| Things to Know | Details |
| Studio | TNK |
| Source | Light novel |
| Premiered | Jan 6, 2012, to Mar 23, 2012 |
| Duration (min per ep) | 25 |
| MAL Score | 7.371 |
Due to its theme, the underappreciated action anime High School DxD is frequently ignored. It centers on a perverted high school kid who battles other supernatural entities after transforming into the devil's servant.
The show provides much more than simply ecchi and fanservice, though. It has a distinctive mythology that combines many different religions and civilizations, and the conflicts are exciting and fierce, keeping spectators on the edge of their seats.
Notable character growth occurs in the protagonist, Issei, who transforms from a perverse and insecure adolescent to a courageous and unselfish hero.
In conclusion, High School DxD is an exciting and enjoyable anime that merits greater praise.
21. Trinity Seven
| Things to Know | Details |
| Studio | Seven Arcs Pictures |
| Source | Manga |
| Premiered | Oct 8, 2014, to Dec 24, 2014 |
| Duration (min per ep) | 24 |
| MAL Score | 7.121 |
An action anime called Trinity Seven centers on the life of high school student Arata Kasuga, whose community is destroyed.
That led him to find a hidden magical realm within his own. He enrolls at a magic school where he meets the Trinity Seven, a group of seven strong female magicians.
They collaborate to avert the end of the world. The show has captivating action scenes, a multicultural group of characters, and a twist-filled narrative that keeps fans interested.
It also looks at issues like love, friendship, and the value of embracing oneself. Trinity Seven is an underappreciated action anime that combines magic and action in a novel way, making it an enjoyable and rewarding watch for fans.
22. Fate/Stay Night: Unlimited Blade Works 2nd Season
| Things to Know | Details |
| Studio | ufotable |
| Source | Visual novel |
| Premiered | Apr 5, 2015, to Jun 28, 2015 |
| Duration (min per ep) | 24 |
| MAL Score | 8.331 |
Action anime Fate/Stay Night: Unlimited Blade Works' 2nd Season is based on Shirou Emiya's life. He is a teenage wizard who is dragged into a bloody conflict over the Holy Grail.
To obtain the Grail and fulfill his goal, he battles other wizards and their slaves with his mighty warrior servant Saber.
The show has breathtaking animation, grand battles, and a convoluted story that investigates ideas like morality, selflessness, and the meaning of power.
It also has compelling people with their own special goals and difficulties. The second season of the underappreciated action anime Fate/Stay Night: Unlimited Blade Works provides viewers with a compelling and immersive experience.
This anime is worth viewing since it has a great ending that closes up the tale excitingly and emotionally.
23. Akatsuki No Yona
| Things to Know | Details |
| Studio | Studio Pierrot |
| Source | Manga |
| Premiered | Oct 7, 2014, to Mar 24, 2015 |
| Duration (min per ep) | 24 |
| MAL Score | 8.041 |
Akatsuki No Yona, sometimes referred to as Yona of the Dawn, is an underrated action anime that tells the tale of a princess by the same name.
After being betrayed by someone she trusted, she is forced to leave her realm. She sets out to retake her throne and save her people from a perilous and corrupt tyranny as she travels with a handful of supporters.
The show has stunning animation, exciting battle scenes, and carefully constructed characters with individual backstories and motives.
It also looks at topics like forgiveness, relationships, and the value of trust. For its gripping plot and strong characters, Akatsuki No Yona is a hidden treasure that merits greater praise.
24. Zero No Tsukaima
| Things to Know | Details |
| Studio | J.C.Staff |
| Source | Light novel |
| Premiered | Jul 3, 2006, to Sep 25, 2006 |
| Duration (min per ep) | 23 |
| MAL Score | 7.291 |
Zero No Tsukaima, commonly known as The Familiar of Zero, is a Japanese action anime that follows Louise's journey. In a world where magic and mages are widespread, she is a young noble lady who studies magic.
Although coming from an aristocratic family, Louise has earned the moniker “Louise the Zero” because of her poor spell-casting skills.
That is until she summons a young guy named Saito from another realm who eventually becomes her familiar.
The series has a fascinating setting, well-developed characters, and an exciting mix of adventure, romance, and comedy.
Also, it looks at issues like loyalty, friendship, and prejudice. A new perspective on the isekai subgenre may be found in the underappreciated action anime Zero No Tsukaima.
With an emphasis on their connection, Louise and Saito are provided, who are caught up in a world of political intrigue and violence.
For lovers of the genre seeking something lighter and enjoyable, there is no better series than this one.
25. K Project
| Things to Know | Details |
| Studio | GoHands |
| Source | Manga |
| Premiered | October 5, 2012 – December 28, 2012 |
| Duration (min per ep) | 22 |
| MAL Score | 7.530 |
Yashiro Isana, a young kid, is the protagonist of the action anime K Project. In a futuristic Japan, he becomes involved in a struggle between various clans who possess extraordinary abilities.
To clear his reputation while learning the truth about the death of a well-known figure in the city, he must traverse a web of intrigue and betrayal.
The series has stunning animation and thrilling action scenes. The story exploration of topics like loyalty, self-identity, and the battle for dominance.
It also has a wide range of interesting, fully realized characters, each with their special skills and characteristics.
That provides for an interesting and enjoyable experience when watching. With a distinct scenario and world-building that keep viewers interested in the plot, K Project is an underappreciated action anime that gives a novel twist on the genre.
For aficionados of the genre seeking something unique and visually spectacular, it's a must-watch.
Conclusion
In conclusion, this list of the Top 25 Greatest Underrated Action Anime has some of the most thrilling and captivating programs in the category.
These anime provide a distinctive viewing experience that should not be missed, ranging from thrilling fights to touching character development. Thus, grab some popcorn, relax, and take in the thrilling world of action anime.
