Epic Mystery, Sci-Fi Why it’s popular: From the creator of Monster . As children, a group of friends wrote a book about heroes saving the world from a villain. Twenty years later, a cult leader named "Friend" is enacting that childhood book for real. The manga spans decades and features an incredible cast of normal people (a convenience store manager, a bartender) becoming unlikely heroes.

Historical, Epic Action Why it’s popular: Ufotable’s visual effects are literally movie-quality. The "Entertainment District Arc" is a masterclass in cinematography. The Pitch: A kind boy sells charcoal, finds his family murdered, and his sister turned into a demon. He joins the "Demon Slayer Corps" to turn her back and avenge his family. Best for: Those who cry easily (the backstories are heartbreaking) and love sword fights. Manga status: Completed (and the final arc is currently being adapted into films).

The quintessential "gateway drug" for intellectuals. A genius high school student named Light Yagami finds a notebook that kills anyone whose name he writes in it. He decides to become the god of a new world, hunting criminals, while the world’s greatest detective, "L," tries to catch him.

– The Emotional Rocket

: Often cited as the "gold standard" for anime, this series explores alchemy, family bonds, and philosophy through two brothers searching for the Philosopher's Stone. Death Note