For its 30th anniversary: New Neon Genesis Evangelion series announced!
However, fans must prepare themselves for some serious changes!
Exciting news for all "Neon Genesis Evangelion" fans! Just in time for the 30th anniversary of the legendary science fiction series, a new series has been announced. However, it will not feature the creator of the original.
According to a statement on the official Evangelion website, the new project is a collaboration between Studio Khara and animation studio CloverWorks. Kazuya Tsurumaki and Toko Yatabe, who already have some experience in the Evangelion universe, will direct. Yoko Taro, best known for the NieR: Automata game series, is responsible for the screenplay.
However, one name is missing from the list: series creator Hideaki Anno himself. For the first time in the history of the brand, he will not be actively involved in a new "Evangelion" production. This is likely to be quite a disappointment for many fans, as Evangelion has always been closely linked to Anno's personal history. The original series from the 1990s is considered a deeply autobiographical work in which Anno processed his own experiences with depression. However, the director has already brought his saga to a conclusion several times: first with the controversial TV finale of the series and then with two feature films.
"Neon Genesis Evangelion" is set in a post-apocalyptic world, years after a global catastrophe called "Second Impact". At the center of the story is the insecure teenager Shinji Ikari, who is recruited by his father to fight mysterious beings called "Angels" as the pilot of a giant biomechanical combat suit – a so-called Evangelion. What initially appears to be classic mecha action quickly develops into a profound exploration of loneliness, identity, fear, and the desire for human connection. It is not yet clear what the new series will be about. However, initial rumors suggest a possible reboot of the series. We are excited to find out!
The most famous and popular anime series of all time
Anime has been thrilling audiences around the world for decades. What began in Japan as a unique form of television entertainment has developed into a global cultural phenomenon. Streaming services, conventions, and social media have contributed to series from the Far East now being an integral part of the international mainstream. But which titles have really shaped anime? Which series are not only successful but also popular across generations? A look at some of the biggest names shows how diverse and influential the medium has become.
Action legends that shaped generations
When it comes to iconic anime, there's no getting around "Dragon Ball Z". The story of Son Goku, spectacular battles, and ever-changing transformation levels set new standards in the action genre. The series was broadcast worldwide and is still considered the entry point for many Western fans. "Naruto" is similarly influential. The story of the young ninja Naruto Uzumaki, who is despised by his village but still dreams of becoming its leader, struck a chord with its themes of friendship, perseverance, and recognition.
Together with "One Piece", the epic pirate adventure centered around Monkey D. Luffy, Naruto forms the core of the so-called "Big Three" of the 2000s. One Piece continues to thrill audiences today with its vast world, emotional backstories, and loyal fan base. A modern representative of this action success is "Attack on Titan". The dark series about humanity's struggle for survival against gigantic titans quickly became a global hit. Its complex plot, moral gray areas, and shocking twists clearly set it apart from classic shonen formats.
Psychological depth and philosophical questions
However, anime can do much more than just action. An outstanding example is "Neon Genesis Evangelion." What initially appears to be a mecha series about teenagers in giant combat robots turns out to be a profound exploration of depression, identity, and human isolation. The series influenced not only the genre but also an entire generation of creative minds.
"Death Note" is similarly sophisticated. The story of a student who can decide life and death with the help of a supernatural notebook developed into a gripping psychological duel. Moral questions about justice and power are at the center here – and sparked discussions worldwide. "Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood" is also often referred to as a masterpiece. The series combines action, fantasy, and political intrigue with emotional depth. Its cohesive plot and consistent dramaturgy make it the best anime series ever for many fans.
Modern streaming hits
With the triumph of streaming platforms, new audience favorites have established themselves. "Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba" impresses with breathtaking animations and intense battles. The story of Tanjiro, who wants to save his sister who has been turned into a demon, became not only a series but also a huge success in the cinema. "My Hero Academia" is also hugely popular.
In a world where almost everyone has superpowers, young Izuku Midoriya struggles to become a hero himself. The series combines classic superhero motifs with Japanese storytelling tradition – and thus captures the spirit of the times. Another modern favorite is "Jujutsu Kaisen". With its dark atmosphere, charismatic characters, and dynamic staging, the series has quickly fought its way to the top of the current anime world.
Emotional stories and timeless classics
In addition to action and suspense, it is often emotional stories that linger in the memory for a long time. "Sailor Moon" shaped the magical girl genre and became the first great anime love for many young viewers in particular. "Pokémon" is also one of the world's best-known brands. The adventures of Ash and Pikachu have been entertaining children and young people for decades – supported by video games, trading cards, and movies. Not to be forgotten is "Spirited Away" – even if, strictly speaking, it is a film. The work by Studio Ghibli even won an Oscar and proved that anime can be international high culture.
A medium with limitless possibilities
The diversity of the most popular anime series shows that the medium is much more than just a genre. Whether action-packed, philosophical, humorous, or heartbreaking, anime tells stories with a creative range that is unparalleled worldwide. While classics such as "Dragon Ball Z" and "Naruto" shaped entire generations, modern series such as "Demon Slayer" and "Jujutsu Kaisen" are setting new standards in animation and staging. And sophisticated works such as Neon Genesis Evangelion and Death Note prove that anime can also be intellectually challenging. One thing is certain: anime has long been a global cultural asset. And given the ever-growing fan base, the list of the most popular series is likely to grow even further in the future.