5 Best Isekai Anime of All Time, Ranked
Isekai anime has become a fan-favorite genre, whisking characters (and audiences) away to thrilling, fantasy-filled worlds.
From intricate storylines to impressive character development, these anime have proven to be unforgettable. Here are five of the best isekai anime, each unique in its storytelling and setting, that every fan should check out.
Sword Art Online (SAO)
Arguably one of the most influential isekai anime, Sword Art Online follows protagonist Kazuto "Kirito" Kirigaya, who gets trapped in a virtual MMORPG along with thousands of other players. The catch? If players die in the game, they die in real life.
As Kirito fights his way through each floor, he encounters characters like Asuna Yuuki, a fierce swordswoman who becomes both his ally and love interest. The show’s focus on high-stakes battles and strategic gameplay make it a captivating watch, and its exploration of technology and reality is compelling. With each season, SAO pushes the boundaries of virtual reality and introduces new worlds, keeping fans hooked.
Re:Zero– Starting Life in Another World
This anime is known for its intense story of Subaru Natsuki, a young man who is transported to a fantasy world with an unusual curse: every time he dies, he "respawns" at a previous point in time.
The anime explores Subaru’s journey as he repeatedly faces death and psychological challenges, all while protecting his new friends, including Emilia, a half-elf girl with whom he quickly becomes infatuated. The anime stands out for its darker approach to the isekai genre, showing the toll that “resetting” has on Subaru. This unique twist makes this a deeply engaging anime that blends fantasy with emotional stakes.
No Game No Life
Sora and Shiro, siblings known as the undefeated gaming duo “Blank,” find themselves transported to a world called Disboard, where every conflict, from simple arguments to matters of state, is settled through games.
Here, magic and intelligence rule over physical strength. The pair aim to challenge the god of games, Tet, to unify Disboard's races. With colorful visuals and creative game battles that involve clever thinking and strategy, No Game No Life offers a refreshing take on isekai. Sora and Shiro’s wit and close bond make each episode a joy to watch, as they rely on skill and cunning instead of brute force.
That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime
This anime follows Satoru Mikami, a regular guy who dies and reincarnates as a slime named Rimuru in a magical world. Unlike other protagonists who start out as powerful warriors, Rimuru’s journey is unique because he begins with a humble form and develops his powers along the way.
His abilities allow him to absorb and mimic skills from creatures he encounters, giving him a surprising edge. With each episode, Rimuru builds alliances and a thriving community of monsters. The anime’s mix of humor, politics, and battle makes That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime an entertaining and light-hearted addition to the isekai genre.
Overlord
In Overlord, salaryman Suzuki Satoru finds himself trapped in a game as his character, Ainz Ooal Gown, a powerful undead overlord. Unlike most isekai protagonists, Ainz embraces his role as the villain in this new world, using his power to expand his rule.
With his loyal NPC servants—Albedo, Demiurge, and others—Ainz sets out to discover if other players are also trapped. This anime offers a unique perspective by focusing on a protagonist who blurs the lines between hero and villain, bringing dark humor and intense combat scenes that make it a standout in the genre.
Why These Isekai Are Worth Your Time
Each anime on this list captures the unique appeal of the isekai genre by immersing viewers in worlds where the impossible becomes possible. Whether through high-stakes battles, intriguing game worlds, or complex character relationships, these anime offer unforgettable stories that challenge characters in ways they never imagined.
For anyone looking to escape reality and explore worlds full of adventure and magic, these isekai are the perfect gateway.
