Shonen is probably the most popular and recognizable anime genre right now. That's all because of anime series like Dragon Ball, Naruto, and Attack on Titan, which became global successes thanks to their amazing world-building and fantastic stories. However, that doesn't mean only the Shonen anime genre can deliver good anime, as Isekai flaunts an equal number of great anime series.
Unfortunately, though, despite having some great stories, Isekai fails to become more mainstream like Shonen. But over the years, that's starting to change because of masterclass series like Mushoku Tensei. That being said, if you're on the hunt for some good Isekai love, these are some of the best ones you can stream on Crunchyroll.
The Devil Is a Part-Timer!
The Devil is a Part-Timer is one of the best Isekai anime on Crunchyroll that features an incredibly clever concept. This masterpiece of an anime has a perfect blend of comedy and action that doesn't take long to hook viewers. In fact, the moment you start watching this anime series, you get pulled into its entertaining and hilarious world that is backed up by some amazing, well-written characters. Sure, the word Devil makes it seem like some dark anime, but in reality, this story is rather cute.
The story of The Devil is a Part-Timer revolves around Satan, the demon lord, who is forced to spend his days as an ordinary person in modern Tokyo. That is all thanks to Emilia Justina, the hero, who overwhelmed him during a duel on his own home planet, Ente Isla. Satan takes the identity of Sadou Maou and takes a job at a fast-food restaurant because even the demon lord needs to make a living. And to help the Sadou adjust to the human world, his loyal general, Ashiya, shows up. That's not all, as Emilia also arrives and takes a human identity to keep a close check on her enemy, who is actually having one hell of a time in the human world.
Tsukimichi: Moonlit Fantasy
Tsukimichi: Moonlit Fantasy features one of the most unique Isekai storylines with amazing character dynamics and world-building. The story's overpowered main character, Makoto, doesn't come across as arrogant, unlike in some similar titles. In fact, he is a grounded and likable guy who is really easy to talk to. Despite having such a great story, Tsukimichi: Moonlit Fantasy remained underrated, and it couldn't reach the level of the mainstream titles that focus more on heavy action instead of slice-of-life elements. Well, maybe it's time to change that, right?
The anime series tells a story of a high schooler named Makoto Misumi, who is summoned to another realm to become a hero. However, the goddess with whom his father made a pact finds Misumi ugly and rejects him. The boy soon discovers his hidden powers and forms an alliance with non-human beings, carving out his own path in a world that, well, rejected him.
My Next Life As a Villainess
Someone who is tired of watching the traditional isekai stories with overpowered characters must watch My Next Life As a Villainess. That's because this show falls into the perfect otome isekai trope, leaving no stone unturned to entertain you with its perfect blend of comedy and character-driven narrative. The series has many reasons to be called great, but the element that tops the list is the unique 'villainess' premise.
The story of My Next Life As a Villainess revolves around Catarina Claes. Catarina is a noble girl whose life is turned upside down after she is reincarnated as a villainess in an otome game she used to play. In this game, Catarina is destined either to be exiled or die, no matter which path she takes. So, Catarina tries harder to change the story, with her kind yet clueless personality.
The Rising of the Shield Hero
The Rising of the Shield Hero is a story of an underdog protagonist who, despite being betrayed and disrespected, decides not to give up. The anime series is filled with amazing, intense drama and character growth that stays with you for a long time, even after you finish binge-watching. We've seen characters getting the role of a warrior or brawler, but have we ever seen a shield wielder becoming the hero? Well, that's what The Rising of the Shield Hero is all about.
The anime's plot revolves around Naofumi Iwatani, an ordinary young man, who gets summoned to an alternate universe. He is one of the Four Cardinal Heroes, who only wields a shield as a weapon. That's right, he doesn't get anything except a mere shield, which makes others look down on him. However, things get worse when Naofumi is falsely accused of a serious crime. Now, he's left with nothing, but Naofumi doesn't give up and makes some friends who can help him clear his name.
Sword Art Online
Sword Art Online is one such anime that hooks you from the moment you start watching the pilot episode. It features a high-stakes story that takes the isekai genre to the next level. Honestly, it would be safe to say that Sword Art Online is probably the most recognizable name within the Isekai genre.
Regardless, what makes it a solid watch is that each arc introduces viewers to new settings, environments, and mechanics, keeping the series fresh. The animation and soundtrack also contribute significantly to its brilliance. Above all else, unlike most anime that rely too heavily on action, Sword Art Online places importance on the characters' struggles, be they psychological, physical, or emotional.
The story takes place in a world of a video game, where Kazuto "Kirito" Kirigaya, our protagonist, gets trapped along with 10,000 players. The gist here is that anyone who dies in the game will suffer a death in real life as well, so the only way to escape the dreadful situation is to cross the 100th level of the tower. Kirito emerges as one of the most powerful players; he forms bonds with other players and develops a romantic relationship with Asuna, an elite young woman. The chemistry between Asuna and Kirito ultimately becomes a core part of the story.
Mushoku Tensei: Jobless Reincarnation
Mushoku Tensei: Jobless Reincarnation features an exceptional fantasy world that is backed up by some brilliant animation. Mushoku Tensei is so beautiful that over the years, the anime community has even compared it to the likes of Jujutsu Kaisen or Demon Slayer. It gives us a main character whose journey isn't just physical, but it's psychological and emotional. And, to be honest, it's deep narratives like this that resonate well with the audience. Anyone who needs a break from the typical isekai should certainly watch it, as the anime offers rich world-building and a story that feels alive.
Mushoku Tensei follows an unemployed 34-year-old man who awakens in a baby's body after being killed by a speeding truck. He gets a new body and a new identity as Rudeus Greyrat in the new fantastical realm. Unlike many other reincarnation stories, this one hits a bit differently because the character remembers everything from his past life. However, he decides to forget every mistake he made, only to live this new life without any regrets.
KonoSuba: God's Blessing on This Wonderful World!
If you are looking for an anime that can lighten up your mood, KonoSuba: God's Blessing on This Wonderful World! is waving at you. Unlike most isekai anime out there, KonoSuba takes a completely different route by putting more focus on the comedy part instead of putting the spotlight on the OP character from start to finish. Of course, we can't tell you the jokes that make KonoSuba funny, but let's just say that it is genuinely funny and one of the most entertaining isekai anime ever made.
The story follows Kazuma Satou, who is summoned to a fantasy world following his embarrassingly ridiculous death. However, before showing up in the new world, he gets a chance to choose any one tool or object that he would like to carry. Without giving it much thought, Satou chooses the goddess Aqua. The new life that was supposed to be a thrilling and exciting ride ends up getting chaotic, giving us several hilarious moments.
Overlord
Overlord features one of the darkest isekai premises, which, instead of giving us an overpowered hero, introduces a dominant villain and casts him as the main character. If that doesn't make Overlord different, then we don't know what else can. Anyway, the villain, or rather protagonist's name is Ainz Ooal Gown, and his commanding presence is what makes the anime engaging in the first place. Of course, the fantasy setting of Overlord is simply brilliant, but we aren't exaggerating when we say that each and every character in this anime is simply unforgettable.
Rearrange the covers into the correct Japanese release order.
Rearrange the covers into the correct Japanese release order.
Overlord's story revolves around Momonga, a hardcore gamer, who decides to play his favorite game, Yggdrasil, until its servers go down. However, when the game is supposed to bid farewell, Momonga is teleported into its virtual world. His in-game character, Ainz, becomes reality, and the NPCs in his guild base start behaving like real people. Now, Momonga, or rather Ainz, has no choice but to become the fearsome entity that everyone fears, but he does everything for peace.
That Time I Got Reincarnated As a Slime
That Time I Got Reincarnated As a Slime is a straightforward isekai anime series that features a main character whose growth sort of feels personal. Despite having enough pieces to be overwhelming, it doesn't feel heavy for even a moment. The main character is powerful, but unlike other anime within the genre, he doesn't step into a fight to dominate but to find some sense of purpose or meaning. (You'll understand this once you watch the anime.)
Satoru Mikami is a corporate worker who dies in Tokyo, and following the tragedy, gets reincarnated in a fantasy world. However, he isn't reborn as a hero, but as a slime with useful abilities. Going by the name Rimuru Tempest, he forms alliances with monsters and other creatures while trying to navigate the new world.
Re:Zero
Re:Zero is not your typical isekai anime, as its unique yet unpredictable story also keeps you guessing as to what's coming up next. The main focus isn't just on the action; the anime also keeps the characters' mental and emotional challenges in the spotlight. Besides the main characters, the supporting characters also play a significant role in Re:Zero. But of course, you'll love Subaru the most because he just has a rather entertaining way to deal with even the darkest of situations.
Re: Zero's features Subaru Natsuki, an ordinary teenager, who is stuck in a death loop. Whenever he dies, Subaru travels back to a previous point in time. And every time he goes back in time, Subaru has to go through the painful situations over and over for the sake of those he cares about. Yes, if you're into games, Re:Zero's story will very much remind you of Deathloop. Anywho, if you haven't watched Re:Zero, it's the best time to go for it because the much-awaited Season 4 of the anime series will arrive on April 8.


































































































































































































