The best anime are often remembered for their most famous storylines. Many anime split their stories into Anime arcs, smaller parts of the story that have their own problems and solutions, but also help move the overall plot forward. These arcs can be different in length, importance in the story, and quality of animation, with some being crucial to the main story, while others may not matter as much.
However, the truly great arcs are the ones that stick with fans long after the anime ends. These are often the best parts of the series, featuring the most exciting and emotional moments. They stand out because of their amazing storytelling and deep impact on viewers.
Some of the most unforgettable anime arcs are considered the best examples of storytelling, not just in anime, but in all of fiction. These arcs are so powerful and well-written that they stay with us, even after we’ve finished watching the show.
10. ???% Arc
Mob Psycho 100 (2016)
The ???% Arc is the exciting final part of Mob Psycho 100, where Mob faces his deepest emotional struggles and grows as a person in anime. This arc focuses on Mob’s inner conflict as he changes from a shy, controlled boy into someone who can truly express himself and control his psychic powers. The resolution of his problems leads to an intense and emotional final showdown.
This anime arc is praised for how deeply it explores Mob’s personal growth. Unlike many heroes in action shows, Mob doesn’t win by using pure strength, but through emotional maturity. The arc combines exciting action with a lot of emotional depth, leaving a strong impression on viewers. It shows everything Mob Psycho is about
9. Pain’s Assault Arc
Naruto Shippuden (2008)
The Pain’s Assault Arc in Naruto Shippuden is one of the most emotional and powerful parts of the series. It focuses on Pain’s attack on the Hidden Leaf Village, where he shows just how strong he is by destroying the leaf village and making everyone realize what true pain is. The arc goes deep into themes of pain, loss, and the cycle of revenge, with Naruto playing a key role in breaking this cycle.
The Pain’s Assault Arc is a turning point in Naruto Shippuden, as it shows the Hidden Leaf Village facing its most destructive attack. Pain, a powerful enemy, devastates the village and reveals the tragic backstory behind his desire for revenge.
As Pain destroys the village and hurts its people, Naruto must confront his own feelings of anger and frustration while trying to protect those he loves. The emotional weight of the arc comes from Naruto’s internal struggle to find a better way to stop the cycle of violence and hatred.
8. Promised Day Arc
Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood, 2009
The Promised Day Arc in Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood is the final part of the story where the Elric brothers fight against Father and his plan to gain godlike power. This arc has exciting battles, emotional moments, and high stakes as the characters team up to stop the disaster.
This arc is the climax of everything the series has been building toward. It gives satisfying answers to the characters’ personal challenges and wraps up their stories. The Promised Day Arc is a key part of Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood, giving the show a touching and meaningful conclusion.
7. Soul Society Arc
Bleach, 2004
The Soul Society Arc in Bleach is an important part of the story where Ichigo Kurosaki and his friends go to the Soul Society to save Rukia Kuchiki, who is going to be executed for using her powers. The arc introduces powerful characters like Captain Aizen and shows the world of the Soul Reapers. It’s a thrilling story full of battles, and it also focuses on Ichigo’s growth as a fighter and his relationships with others.
This arc is loved because it introduces many characters who will become key to Bleach‘s story. The Soul Society Arc is when Bleach started to become really popular among fans, thanks to its exciting battles and the way Ichigo’s character grew, making it a major turning point in the series.
6. L Saga
Death Note, 2006
The L saga in Death Note focuses on the genius detective L as he tries to catch the mysterious Kira, who is using the Death Note to kill criminals. This arc is full of tense mind games, and psychological battles. L’s pursuit of Kira takes a personal toll on both L and Light Yagami, leading to an exciting cat-and-mouse chase. The arc explores ideas about justice, morality, and the cost of following one’s beliefs.
This arc is a fan favorite because of its smart writing and the clever strategies used by both L and Light. The mental battles between them are what make the series so interesting, as they push each other to the edge. The L Saga is where Death Note really stands out, giving not just thrilling suspense but also deep questions about power, justice, and what’s right or wrong.
5. Shibuya Incident Arc
Jujutsu Kaisen, 2020
The Shibuya Incident Arc in Jujutsu Kaisen is one of the most intense and important parts of the series. It focuses on the battle between sorcerers and curses in the Shibuya district, with characters facing dangerous situations. The arc is filled with high-stakes fights such as when Gojo fights in a subway station and the fight between Sukuna and Mahoraga kept fans engaged to the story. It’s also a turning point for Yuji Itadori, who is pushed to his limits both physically and emotionally.
This arc is loved for its unpredictability and its deep look at the fight between good and evil. The emotional tension is high as characters face their biggest fears, and some even come close to death. The Shibuya Incident Arc shows how Jujutsu Kaisen combines exciting action with strong character growth, making it one of the most important moments in the series and a standout in the shonen genre.
4. Chimera Ant Arc
Hunter x Hunter, 2014
The Chimera Ant Arc in Hunter x Hunter is a dark and complex story that focuses on the rise of the Chimera Ants and their conflict with the Hunter Association. The arc looks at what it means to be human, the idea of good and evil, and what makes a true monster. It also shows the growth of Gon and Killua, and how the arc affects them emotionally. The final battles are intense, both physically and emotionally, pushing the characters to their limits.
This arc stands out because it goes deeper than just good vs. evil, exploring human nature in a thoughtful way. The Chimera Ants show both the good and bad sides of humanity. Gon’s actions, especially his transformation and the emotional losses he faces, leave a strong impact on viewers, making this one of the most unforgettable arcs in anime.
3. Golden Age Arc
Berserk, 1997
The Golden Age Arc is the start of Berserk and sets the stage for the entire story. It focuses on the rise and fall of Griffith and his Band of the Hawk, especially the close bond between Guts and Griffith. The arc is full of intense battles, personal struggles, and emotional moments, leading to one of the most shocking betrayals in anime.
This arc is unforgettable because of its amazing character development and the emotional journey it takes viewers on. Griffith’s betrayal of Guts changes everything, and it becomes a defining moment for Guts throughout the series. The Golden Age Arc is the tragic core of Berserk, showing the complexity of ambition, friendship, and sacrifice, all of which shape the dark world of the series.
2. Return to Shiganshina Arc
Attack on Titan, 2019
The Return to Shiganshina Arc in Attack on Titan is an important part of the story where the survey corps goes back to retake Wall Maria from the Titans. This arc has many intense battles and reveals important secrets about the Titans and the world’s past. The action is nonstop, and the emotional stakes are at their highest as characters face huge losses while discovering life-changing truths.
This arc is key because it answers many of the series’ mysteries. The truth about the Titans, Eren’s real goals, and the future of humanity all come to light here. It’s not just about fighting Titans, it’s about understanding the world and making hard choices that will change everything. The arc also shows how much Eren, Mikasa, and Armin have grown since the start of the series.
1. Marineford Arc
One Piece, 2010
The Marineford Arc is one of the most intense and emotional parts of One Piece and no doubt the best Anime arc till now. It focuses on the battle to rescue Luffy’s brother, Ace, who is about to be executed by the Marines. The arc brings together many powerful characters and forces, including Whitebeard, the Marine Admirals, and the Seven Warlords of the sea.
This arc stands out because it changes the world of One Piece in a big way. Ace’s death marks a turning point for Luffy and the entire pirate world. The stakes are high, and the emotional impact of the deaths and sacrifices stays with viewers. It’s a key moment in Luffy’s journey, pushing him closer to his goal of becoming the Pirate King.