Many of today's most successful anime series have one thing in common: they don't suffer from a bad story arc that ends up derailing everyone's viewing experience while killing the hype they created. Rather, they feature multiple must-watch story arcs celebrated for their memorable moments, battles, and characters in general.
One Piece officially beats solo leveling at the Crunchyroll 2026 Awards
The results of the Crunchyroll Anime Awards were officially announced on May 23, 2026, and One Piece officially beat Solo Leveling.
While most anime strive to maintain perfection in every arc, that doesn't mean it's impossible to achieve. In fact, these excellent anime without bad arcs are the best proof that a flawless run is still possible.
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10
Re: Zero's Story Arcs are brutal psychological tests
When it comes to isekai anime, Re: Zero it is often mentioned as one of the most unique. after all Re: Zero features brutal story arcs that are structured more like psychological tests not only for Subaru Natsuki, but also for his allies and enemies, instead of going in the same direction as those isekai anime that contain typical fantasy adventure elements.
Yet, Re: Zero has maintained a strong position in the isekai genre even after releasing four seasons of anime. Subaru Return By Death's authority might have been a boring otherworldly power, but the way it brutally activates itself with an equally brutal death keeps the tension in Re: Zerothe story aims extremely high.
9
The Story of Solo Leveling Arcs can handle Jinwoo's transformation with such intensity
Solo levelingThe anime's popularity among anime fans isn't going to die anytime soon, now that it has reached another level of fame and success in the recently concluded Crunchyroll Anime Awards. It is clear that Sung Jinwoo has captured the attention of worldwide audiences, incl Solo levelingStory arcs that are full of Jinwoo's best moments as a newly awakened S-rank hunter in Korea.
While Solo leveling doesn't rely on long, slow-burning story arcs, the anime still succeeds by consistently focusing on Sung Jinwoo's drastic transformation from one arc to the next. The series uses each arc to explore the compelling progression of Jinwoo's power and the expanding mystery of the System and its creator, the Monarchs and Rulers, and of course the very first Shadow Monarch, Ashborn.
8
Jujutsu Kaisen's story arcs are highly rewatchable
Jujutsu Kaisen is no stranger to excellent story arcs. From the Cursed Child arc to the Culling arc, Jujutsu Kaisen consistently delivers powerful story arcs that fans can't get enough of, no matter how many times they've read or watched the series based on Gege Akutami's wildly successful manga.
Yuji Itadori's journey from amateur to one of the strongest shonen characters at the end of the series, capable of holding his own against Ryomen Sukun, is nothing short of legendary. It is incredibly elaborate and every story is in full swing JJK contributes significantly to his emotional and physical growth.
7
The Spy x Family Arcs story is well written
Spy x Family is a highly successful modern anime with consistently engaging story arcs. From the Introductory Arc to Lloyd's Past Arc, every storyline in Spy x Family it is loved because it feels complete and purposeful. The series has a healthy habit of providing a clear setup and satisfying resolution in each of its storylines.
The Spy x Family story arcs also do a very good job of blending multiple genres, keeping the narrative fresh and exciting without forcing it. One moment fans are enjoying the carefree antics of Anya and Bond, and the next they're drawn into Lloyd and Yor as they complete their dangerous missions. Above all else, the dynamic between the members of the Forger family is natural, relatable, and hilarious, and that chemistry carries through every arc of the story.
6
Vinland Saga earned respect with just two story arcs
The Vinland Saga delivered two incredible seasons, starting with Thorfinn's journey at sea alongside Askeladd's band of mercenaries during Season 1's War Arc and continuing into the Slave Arc where he is stripped of his former life and forced to work as a slave on Ketil's farm in Season 2.
It only lasted two story arcs The Vinland Saga establishing itself as a highly respected anime in the industry. If there is ever a third or fourth season, the eastern expedition arc and the Vinland arc will probably pick up The Vinland Saga to even greater recognition.
5
The story of Frieren: Beyond Journey's End Arcs will leave a lasting emotional impact
Frieren: Beyond Journey's End takes a unique approach in telling a fantasy and adventure story, starting with the defeat of the Demon King long before the current timeline. The series puts more emphasis on Frierene's life after the loss of the Demon King, rather than her 10-year journey with the Hero's Party.
While the story unfolds Frieren are less action-packed than the other battle-packed anime on this list, they still stand out as some of the strongest story arcs in fantasy and shonen anime thanks to Frieren's character development from a near-immortal elf who once had little regard for humanity to a more empathetic individual burdened with pity.
4
One Piece Remains the King of Long Story Arcs
Monkey D. Luffy's Journey to becoming Pirate King v One piece It unfolds through over 30 major story arcs as it is written. Each arc offers viewers something new, from the unique culture and climate of each island in the sea, to the allies and enemies of Luffy and the straw pirates they meet along the way, as well as powerful villains who aren't afraid to challenge Luffy and his crew.
While One piece is often criticized for its slow pacing in many episodes, it doesn't detract from the enjoyment or emotional payoff each story arc brings to fans. In fact, when the Straw Hats celebrate their hard-fought victories with a feast, the audience often seems to be celebrating right alongside them.
3
Mob Pyscho 100's Story Arcs Keep Emotions High
Mob Psycho 100 is a visually stunning shonen series about a boy with overpowered psychic powers. He is one of ONE's strongest creations, the same prodigy who created Saitama and wrote his action-packed yet hilarious story in One-Punch Man.
Like every other anime on this list, the Mob Psycho 100 story arcs are celebrated for their unparalleled focus on Shige “Mob” Kageyama as he finds it increasingly difficult to control his true power. The same goes for Reigen and Dimple, who both have a close relationship with Mob.
2
JoJo's Bizarre Adventure's Parts hit with striking style
IN JoJo's Bizarre Adventurethe story arcs are handled as parts, with each arc introducing a different protagonist from the Joestar family. At the time of writing there are a total of 9 episodes, starting with Phantom Blood and ending with The JOJOLands.
While passionate fans JoJo franchises like to rank each of their installments from weakest to strongest on various forums, there's no denying that they're all insanely good. From the diverse cast of characters and their unique abilities, their unknown stories, to the animation style used, each episode of JoJo always has something new for its loyal fans.
1
Attack on Titan's Story Arcs don't break expectations
Attack on Titan went all out with its unpredictable story arcs, from the Fall of Shiganshina, which first showed the brutality of the titans, to the War for Paradise, where Eren Yeager fought for true freedom until the end. Each arc delivers intense titanic battles that aren't meant for small-minded, unexpected character deaths, and shocking plot twists that keep breaking the internet and setting a higher standard for others in the same genre.
at that time Attack on Titan he was the face of the anime and there was nothing stopping the series from blowing everyone's minds. The series truly embodies unpredictability, excelling in story arcs that defy expectations and keep viewers on edge not only today, but for many years to come.
