Sword fighting has remained a popular theme in anime for many years, and it’s no surprise that numerous shows showcase skilled sworders and epic battles. However, with so many options available, it can be overwhelming to decide where to start.
That’s why we have created a list of the top 30 best sword anime that fans of the genre can enjoy. Whether you’re a seasoned anime enthusiast or new to Japanese animation, there’s something for everyone on this list. So, grab your swords and prepare for an unforgettable journey filled with action, drama, and remarkable characters.
Sword Animes
In this list, we’re counting down the top 30 best sword animes ever. This list has something for everyone, from classics like Rurouni Kenshin to newer shows like Sword Art Online.
1. Berserk
There are a lot of great sword animes out there, but Berserk is one of the best. The story follows Guts, a former mercenary who joins the Band of the Hawk, a group of mercenaries led by Griffith.
However, things worsen when Griffith unsuccessfully attempts to court Lady Charlotte, leading to his capture and torture. This sets off a chain of events that leads to Guts leaving the Band of the Hawk and embarking on a quest for revenge.
Berserk is an incredibly dark and mature anime that isn’t afraid to push the envelope. It’s packed with gore, violence, and some truly heartbreaking moments. But it’s also an incredibly well-written and engaging story that will keep you hooked from beginning to end. If you’re looking for a great sword anime with a fantastic story, Berserk is worth checking out.
2. Rurouni Kenshin
Rurouni Kenshin is a Japanese manga series written and illustrated by Nobuhiro Watsuki. The story revolves around Kenshin Himura, a former assassin of the Bakumatsu known as “Hitokiri Battōsai.”
After the Meiji Restoration, Kenshin wanders the countryside of Japan with a reverse-edged blade to protect the people of Japan and vows never to take another life. The manga spans over 280 chapters that were serialized in Shueisha’s Weekly Shōnen Jump from April 1994 to November 1999.
The series was adapted into an anime series produced by Aniplex that aired on Fuji TV from January 1996 to September 1998. A live-action film adaptation was released in August 2012. Two OVAs, audio albums, video games, light novels, and other merchandise were also produced.
The manga has been reprinted several times in Japan; Viz Media licensed it for an English release in North America in 2003 under its Shojo Beat imprint before transferring it to its Viz Signature imprint in 2009.
Rurouni Kenshin has been well received by critics and readers alike; it was ranked first in the Manga Grand Prix poll by Japanese fans in 1995 and 1996 and was one of only four titles to make it into Diamond Comics’ Top 100 Graphic Novels list during 2001–2005. In 2005, Anime News Network’s Charles Solomon ranked Rurouni Kenshin as one of his top ten favorite anime series.
3. Bleach
If you’re looking for a great sword anime, look no further than Bleach. Bleach is a long-running anime that follows the story of Ichigo Kurosaki, a young man who can see ghosts. When a Hollow attacks his family, a dangerous creature that feeds on human souls, Ichigo is tasked with protecting them and fighting Hollows.
Bleach has some of the most iconic fights in all of anime. The swordplay is intense and thrilling, and the characters are all incredibly well-developed. If you’re looking for an action-packed anime with great characters and exciting fights, then Bleach is a perfect choice.
4. Demon Slayer
Demon Slayer is one of the top sword anime of all time. The story follows Tanjirou Kamado, a young boy who becomes a demon slayer after demons kill his family. Tanjirou then sets out on a journey to find a way to turn his sister into a human again. Along the way, he meets other demon slayers and learns about the dangers of fighting demons.
The anime is full of action and adventure, and the characters are likable. The animation is also top-notch, and the music is beautiful. If you’re looking for a great sword anime, you can’t go wrong with Demon Slayer.
5. Sword Art Online
Sword Art Online is a Japanese light novel series written by Reki Kawahara and illustrated by Abec. The series is in the near future and focuses on various virtual reality MMORPG worlds. The first volume was published in Japan in February 2009, and the 21st and final volumes were published in December 2020.
The series has been adapted into an anime television series produced by A-1 Pictures that aired from July 2012 to December 2014, two animated films, an anime television series produced by Aniplex that aired from April 2014 to June 2014, and two manga adaptations.
The story of Sword Art Online follows Kazuto “Kirito” Kirigaya, a beta tester for the game who becomes trapped in it along with 10,000 other players after it launches its first public server.
They are then forced to play through the game until they reach the 100th floor of Aincrad Castle, where they can log out or be killed by the game’s developers.
Kirito joins forces with Asuna Yuuki to try and clear the game while uncovering its creation’s mysteries. Sword Art Online is considered one of the best sword anime ever. It features fantastic action scenes, well-developed characters, and an engaging story. Related: 30 Must-See American Anime, Ranked from Best to Best
6. Gintama
Gintama is a Japanese manga series written and illustrated by Hideaki Sorachi. Set in Edo, conquered by aliens known as the Amanto, the story follows the adventures of a rag-tag group of samurai known as the Yorozuya.
The series has been serialized in Shueisha’s Weekly Shōnen Jump since December 2003 and has been collected into 77 tankōbon volumes as of February 2019. The story revolves around an eccentric samurai, Gintoki Sakata, his apprentice, Shinpachi Shimura, and a teenage alien girl named Kagura.
Most episodes are episodic, with built-in standalone stories that occasionally intertwine with others throughout the series or build upon previous events. Although the series is primarily comedic, it often involves complex satire, drama, and action scenes that are commonly interwoven or juxtaposed.
7. Dororo
“Dororo” is a sword anime that follows Hyakkimaru, an orphan born without limbs and facial features due to a deal with demons. To recover his lost body parts, he travels with a young thief named Dororo and battles various demons. The series features stunning visuals, action-packed scenes, and unique historical and supernatural elements blend.
The heartwarming relationship between Hyakkimaru and Dororo adds emotional depth to the story. Overall, “Dororo” is a must-watch for fans of sword anime, offering thrilling action and heartfelt storytelling. Related: Cute Anime Series to Watch Right Now
8. Noragami
Noragami is a Japanese manga series written and illustrated by Adachitoka. It began serialization in Kodansha’s Monthly Shōnen Magazine in January 2011’s issue. The story follows Yato, a minor deity who presides over misfortune, and Hiyori Iki, a girl who becomes his Regalia (神具, kamigu) after an accident causes her soul to slip out of her body.
As Yato attempts to gain more followers to become a major deity one day, he and Hiyori encounter various gods, goddesses, and spirits called Ayakashi. The series has been licensed for English release by Kodansha Comics USA, who published the first volume in February 2014.
As of March 2019, thirteen volumes have been released. A 12-episode anime television series adaptation by Bones aired on Japanese television from January 5 to March 23, 2014. A second season, Noragami Aragoto, aired in Japan from October 2 to December 25, 2015. An original video animation was bundled with the 14th manga volume, released on September 16, 2016.
9. Afro Samurai
“Afro Samurai” is a sword anime that follows Afro, a skilled swordsman seeking vengeance against the man who killed his father. Set in a blend of futuristic and feudal Japan, the series features intense and bloody action scenes and explores themes of revenge and the cost of violence.
With stunning animation and a memorable soundtrack by RZA of the Wu-Tang Clan, “Afro Samurai” is a must-watch for fans of sword anime and those looking for a powerful and unique story.
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10. Sword Of The Stranger
If you’re looking for a great sword anime, you can’t go wrong with Sword of the Stranger. The story follows Kotaro, a young boy who the Chinese Ming Dynasty is hunting. He meets a nameless sworder who agrees to help him in his quest for safety.
The swordplay in this anime is top-notch, and the characters are all incredibly likable. If you’re looking for an action-packed, emotionally gripping anime, then be sure to check out Sword of the Stranger.
11. Katanagatari
Katanagatari is a sword anime that follows the story of Shichika Yasuri, a swordsman who wields the power of the Katana. The anime is set in Japan during the Edo period.
Shichika’s sister, Togame, tasks him with finding and collecting 12 rare and powerful swords. As he starts his journey, Shichika meets various colorful characters, each with their own motivations for acquiring the swords.
The anime is notable for its unique art style and use of color. The swordfights are well-choreographed, and the characters are likable and easy to root for. If you’re looking for an enjoyable sword anime with plenty of action, Katanagatari is worth checking out.
12. Samurai Champloo
Samurai Champloo is one of the top best sword anime of all time. It follows the story of Mugen, a vagrant swordsman, and Jin, a ronin. The two are thrust together by fate and must learn to work together to find the samurai who smells like sunflowers.
Samurai Champloo is unique in mixing traditional samurai elements with hip-hop culture. This makes for an interesting and fresh take on the genre. The artwork is also top-notch, and the action scenes are well-choreographed. If you’re looking for a great sword anime with plenty of styles, then Samurai Champloo is worth checking out.
13. Blade Of The Immortal
“Blade of the Immortal” is a sword anime that tells the story of Manji, a skilled samurai cursed with immortality. After killing one too many people, he becomes tired of his violent ways and longs for death.
However, he is approached by a young girl named Rin, who wants revenge on the men who killed her family. To make amends for his past sins, Manji offers to help Rin by becoming her bodyguard and using his immortal powers to protect her.
Together, they embark on a journey to hunt down the evil men who destroyed Rin’s family, encountering various unique characters and engaging in thrilling sword fights. The series is known for its graphic violence, intense fight scenes, and complex and engaging story.
14. Brave 10
“Brave 10” is a 2012 anime series based on manga of the same name. The anime was directed by Toshiya Shinohara and written by Yukito Kishiro. The series follows the adventures of a group of samurai known as the Sanada Ten Braves.
The Brave 10 are a group of ten samurai who serve under Warlord Sanada Yukimura during Japan’s Warring States period. The group comprises skilled warriors from all across Japan, each with its unique fighting style.
The series focuses on the adventure and battles of the Brave 10 as they fight against rival warlords and evil forces threatening Japan’s peace. “Brave 10” is an action-packed anime with intense sword fights, mystical powers, and larger-than-life characters. If you’re looking for a great sword anime to watch, then be sure to check out “Brave 10”!
15. Samurai 7
Samurai 7 is one of the top sword anime of all time. The story follows a group of seven samurai hired to protect a village from bandits. The samurai are each skilled in their own unique way with swords and must work together to defeat the bandits. The animation and action in this anime are top-notch, and the characters are very likable. If you’re looking for a great sword anime, Samurai 7 is worth checking out.
16. Hakuouki
Hakuouki is a sword anime set in the Bakumatsu period of Japanese history. The show follows the story of Chizuru Yukimura, a young woman who disguises herself as a man to find her father. She joins the Shinsengumi, a group of warriors who fight against the forces of the Meiji Restoration.
The swords in Hakuouki are more than just weapons; they are symbols of the character’s past and present struggles. Each character has their unique blade, and how they use it reflects their personality and fighting style.
The action in Hakuouki is intense and thrilling, with plenty of heart-pounding moments. But beyond the excitement, there is also a sense of beauty and grace to the battles. The swordsmanship on display is nothing short of artistry, and it’s clear that the animators put a lot of love into this aspect of the show.
If you’re looking for an exhilarating sword anime with gorgeous animation and complex characters. In that case, Hakuouki is definitely worth checking out.
17. Mushibugyo
Mushibugyo is an anime that follows the story of a young man named Jinbei, who is taken in by the Insect Magistrate, an organization that exterminates giant bugs. The magistrate’s daughter, Hibiki, likes Jinbei and often helps him, but she also has feelings for him.
The two eventually get married and have a child together. The story follows their life together as they deal with giant bugs, as well as other threats to the peace of Edo. Mushibugyo is a great anime for those who enjoy action and adventure. The story is exciting and filled with suspense. The characters are likable and easy to root for.
The artwork is beautiful, and the animation is top-notch. If you’re looking for a great sword anime to watch, Mushibugyo should be on your list!
18. Sengoku Basara
Sengoku Basara” is a sword anime set in feudal Japan during the Sengoku period, a time of great conflict and war. The series follows various warlords fighting for power and dominance over the land.
Each warlord has their own unique fighting style and personality, making for a diverse and interesting cast of characters. The series is known for its flashy animation, epic battles, and over-the-top and bombastic tone.
19. Basilisk
Basilisk was an anime ahead of its time and is still considered one of the best sword anime today. The story is set in a world where two ninja clans are at war. The conflict started when one clan killed the leader of the other clan.
The series follows the members of both clans as they battle each other using their ninja skills and swordsmanship. Basilisk is an intense and brutal anime not for the faint of heart. It is full of blood and violence, but it is also full of amazing action scenes and excellent characters. If you are looking for a great sword anime, you must check out Basilisk.
20. Shigurui
“Shigurui” is a sword anime that explores the brutal and violent world of samurai duels in 17th-century Japan. The series follows two rival samurai, Fujiki Gennosuke and Irako Seigen, competing in a deadly and vicious tournament called the Shigurui.
The series is known for its realistic portrayal of sword fighting, with each duel portrayed in painstaking detail and with great accuracy. The characters are complex and morally ambiguous, each having their own reasons for fighting in the tournament.
21. Ninja Scroll
Ninja Scroll is a 1993 Japanese animated historical fantasy action film directed by Yoshiaki Kawajiri, based on a screenplay by Kazuo Koike and starring Kōichi Yamadera.
The film was released in Japan on June 5, 1993, and in the United States on August 3, 1995. It was subsequently followed by two sequels: Ninja Scroll: The Series (2003) and Ninja Scroll 2: The Thundering Mantis (2009).
The story is set in feudal Japan and follows Jubei Kibagami, a ninja caught amid a power struggle between warring ninja clans.
Jubei is initially reluctant to get involved, but he is eventually drawn into the conflict when he meets a mysterious woman named Kagero, who seems connected to the clan wars. As Jubei investigates further, he discovers that the clan wars are being orchestrated by an even more sinister force: a powerful demon known as the Himuro Genma.
Ninja Scroll is considered one of the best sword anime of all time. It features some of the most stylish and visually impressive action scenes ever put into animation. Its complex plot is filled with political intrigue, betrayal, and shocking twists. If you’re looking for an anime that will keep you on the edge of your seat, look no further than Ninja Scroll!
22. Yasuke
Yasuke was born in Japan during the 16th century. His life would be forever changed when he met the warlord Oda Nobunaga. Yasuke served as Nobunaga’s bodyguard, and the two men formed a strong bond.
However, their time together was cut short when Nobunaga was betrayed and killed by one of his generals. Yasuke took up his sword and swore to avenge Nobunaga’s death. He began a one-person crusade against the traitorous general, eventually slaying him. However, the cost of victory was high, as Yasuke was gravely wounded.
As he lay on the brink of death, Yasuke had a vision of Nobunaga’s spirit. In this vision, Nobunaga told Yasuke that his work was unfinished. There were still others who needed to be brought to justice. And so Yasuke picked up his sword again and continued his quest for vengeance.
Today, Yasuke is remembered as one of Japan’s most famous samurai warriors. His story has been adapted into several manga and anime series, cementing his place in pop culture history.
23. Drifters
The term “drifter” is derived from the act of drifting, which comes from the Japanese word for “sliding.” Drifting is a driving technique where the driver intentionally oversteers around a corner, causing the car’s back end to slide out.
This results in a more efficient use of the car’s traction, allowing the driver to maintain control and speed through the turn. Drifting has been popularized by various anime and manga, such as Initial D and Redline. The act of drifting has also been featured in several video games, such as Forza Horizon 3 and Gran Turismo Sport.
While drift cars are typically rear-wheel drive, some drivers have also successfully drifted front-wheel drive cars. Drifting is not limited to cars; motorcycles and boats can also drift.
24. Kurozuka
Kurozuka is a sword anime that tells the story of a young swordsman named Kurou who is transported back in time to feudal Japan.
There, he meets a beautiful woman named Kuromitsu, who helps him adapt to his new life. Together, they face many challenges and learn more about each other. This sword anime is unique in its setting and story. The characters are well-developed, and the action is top-notch. If you’re looking for an exciting and different sword anime, Kurozuka is worth checking out!
25. Carried By The Wind: Tsukikage Ran
“Carried by the Wind: Tsukikage Ran” is a sword anime that follows the adventures of Ran, a skilled swordsman who travels with a young chef named Meow. The series’s lighthearted tone features episodic adventures as Ran and Meow encounter various characters and get into sword fights. Despite its lighthearted tone, the series has plenty of exciting sword fights and action scenes, making it a fun and engaging watch.
26. House Of Five Leaves
House Of Five Leaves is a great sword anime that tells the story of a group of samurai who band together to help a ronin named Akitsu Masanosuke. The group leader, Yaichi, takes Masanosuke under his wing and teaches him the ways of the samurai.
The other group members include a skilled swordsman named Heisuke, a former prostitute named Shige, and a man with a dark past named Genta. The anime follows the group as they take on various jobs, including protecting a merchant from bandits and rescuing a young woman from kidnappers.
Along the way, they deal with plenty of challenges, both from within and without. But, through it all, they remain united as friends and comrades-in-arms. House Of Five Leaves is an excellent sword anime with strong characters and plenty of exciting action. If you’re looking for a great show to watch, this is definitely one to check out!
27. Intrigue In The Bakumatsu
“Intrigue in the Bakumatsu” is a sword anime set in the Bakumatsu period of Japan’s history, a time of political upheaval and conflict. The series follows a group of samurai who are tasked with protecting a young woman named Yukino, who holds the key to a powerful secret.
Along the way, they encounter a variety of political factions and engage in intense sword fights. The series is known for its complex plot and engaging characters, with each samurai having unique motivations and backstories.
28. Gibiate
“Gibiate” is a sword anime set in a post-apocalyptic world where a virus has turned people into monsters. The series follows a samurai named Sensui and a ninja named Kanzaki as they try to survive and find a cure for the virus.
Along the way, they encounter a variety of other survivors, each with their own unique skills and abilities. The series is notable for its unique setting, engaging characters, and exciting sword fights and action scenes.
29. Samurai Deeper Kyou
When it comes to sword anime, few can compare it to the likes of Samurai Deeper Kyou. This show is set in Japan during the Warring States period and follows the story of two young boys who become friends and enemies.
The sword fighting in this anime is some of the best you will ever see, and the characters are all incredibly well-developed. If you are looking for a great sword anime, look no further than Samurai Deeper Kyou.
30. Peace Maker Kurogane
There are a lot of great sword animes out there, but Kurogane is definitely one of the best. This show is all about a young boy named Taito whose life is turned upside down when he’s pulled into a world of swords and sorcery.
While in this new world, Taito meets Kurogane, a fierce warrior exiled from his own world. Despite their initial meeting, the two quickly become friends and set out on an adventure together.
Throughout the series, we see Kurogane grow as a person and come to understand the importance of friendship and loyalty. He’s also an amazing swordsman, making him a valuable battle ally.
If you’re looking for a great sword anime with amazing action and awesome characters. In that case, you need to check out Kurogane. It’s definitely one of the best in the genre!
Conclusion
In conclusion, sword anime offers an exciting, action-packed viewing experience filled with intense battles, dynamic characters, and thrilling plotlines. The top 30 sword anime we have listed above is a must-watch for any anime enthusiast who wants to delve deeper into this genre.
Each has something unique: an intriguing storyline, incredible animation, or breathtaking fight scenes. So, whether you’re a seasoned anime fan or new to Japanese animation, we highly recommend checking out these sword anime and immersing yourself in the fascinating world of sword-wielding heroes and epic battles.
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