Transformative. Captivating. Heart-warming. The magical girl genre has become a staple of anime over the past three decades, with its own delightful tropes, unforgettable anime characters, and legions of fans. But if you want to venture outside of the classics like Sailor Moon and Cardcaptor Sakura, what should you watch? This list is not only a definitive ranking of the best that the magical girl anime genre has to offer but will hopefully introduce you to some new faves, underrated gems, and contemporary offerings to fill that magical girl-shaped hole in your life.
So, get ready for witches, cat DNA, magical rods, and more! Here are the 10 most enchanting magical girl anime of all time.
10 Best Magical Girl Anime of All Time
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Little Witch Academia
Image credit: Netflix
Studio: Studio Trigger | Episode Count: 25 | Where to watch: Netflix
Little Witch Academia is a charming magical school story that reimagines the magical girl trope for a post-Harry Potter generation. When Akko enrolls at the fantastical Luna Nova Magical Academy, she can hardly contain her excitement. Her lifelong dream of learning magic is within reach, despite not being naturally magical herself. Inspired by the famed witch Shiny Chariot, Akko's journey takes a magical turn when she discovers an artifact linked to her idol. Determined to reignite the world's love for magic, Akko embarks on a mission filled with friendship and a unique perspective on magic. This delightful series is a must-watch on Netflix.
There have been 25 episodes of Little Witch Academia across two seasons, but the future of a Season 3 remains uncertain.
Pastel Yumi, the Magic Idol
Image credit: Studio Pierrot
Studio: Studio Pierrot | Episode Count: 25 | Where to watch: Not available to stream
This 1986 series is a pioneering example of magical girl anime and a must-include on our list. It also taps into the beloved trope of a protagonist aspiring to be a mangaka. Yumi, an aspiring artist, is passionate about both manga and flowers, a love inherited from her florist parents. Her life changes when she saves a flower and is granted two magical items: a wand and a locket, which bring her drawings to life. Retro and charming, Pastel Yumi, the Magic Idol is an underappreciated gem worth exploring.
Tokyo Mew Mew
Image credit: Studio Pierrot
Studio: Studio Pierrot | Episode Count: 52 | Where to watch: Not available to stream
Adapted from the manga by Reiko Yoshida and Mia Ikumi, Tokyo Mew Mew offers a unique twist on the magical girl genre. The story follows Ichigo Momomiya, who gains powers after an accident infuses her with cat DNA. In a transformation reminiscent of a werewolf, Ichigo becomes increasingly cat-like, using her abilities to unite with other affected girls and combat an alien threat linked to their newfound powers. With its playful narrative and a new reboot that elevates the series, Tokyo Mew Mew is a delightful watch.
My-HiME
Image credit: Sunrise
Studio: Sunrise | Episode Count: 26 + 26 DVD-only shorts | Where to watch: Crunchyroll
My-HiME masterfully blends the magical girl trope with a boarding school drama. Mai's transition to the secretive Fuuka Academy is life-altering. Initially feeling out of place, she discovers her purpose among others bearing a special symbol, enabling them to summon familiars to battle nightmarish creatures. These "Children" are deeply connected to loved ones, heightening the stakes of their battles. This series is a compelling watch available on Crunchyroll.
Pretty Cure
Image credit: Toei Animation
Studio: Toei Animation | Episode Count: 800 | Where to watch: Crunchyroll
If you're looking for a magical girl series to immerse yourself in, Pretty Cure is the answer, with an impressive 800 episodes. The premise follows young girls who gain magical powers to fight evil, embodying the classic magical girl narrative with enduring charm. Its vibrant, adorable style and lovable creatures make it a delightful and long-lasting series to enjoy on Crunchyroll.
Puella Magi Madoka Magica
Image credit: Shaft
Studio: Shaft | Episode Count: 12 | Where to watch: Crunchyroll and Hulu
Puella Magi Madoka Magica redefines the magical girl trope with a darker, more profound narrative. The series follows young women who become supernatural witch fighters after accepting a contract from a mysterious cat-like creature. While it starts with a traditional setup, it delves into themes of trauma, exploitation, and the harsh realities of being a magical girl. This thought-provoking series is available on Crunchyroll and Hulu.
Magic Knight Rayearth
Image credit: Tokyo Movie Shinsha
Studio: Tokyo Movie Shinsha | Episode Count: 49 | Where to watch: Crunchyroll and Prime Video
Created by the renowned artist collective CLAMP, Magic Knight Rayearth is a high fantasy epic that transports friends Hikaru Shidou, Umi Ryuuzaki, and Fuu Hououji to a magical world during a school field trip. This universe-hopping adventure showcases CLAMP's signature expansive worldbuilding, stunning animation, and intricate relationships. It's a series you can revisit time and again, with additional enjoyment from the Magic Knight Rayearth games of the 90s. Stream it on Crunchyroll and Prime Video.
Revolutionary Girl Utena
Image credit: J.C. Staff
Studio: J.C. Staff | Episode Count: 39 | Where to watch: Not available to stream
Revolutionary Girl Utena is one of the most influential and subversive magical girl anime. Inspired by chivalric romance, it follows Utena, an orphan who decides to become a prince after a life-changing encounter. Her journey leads her into a secretive dueling contest at her school, entangling her with the enigmatic Rose Bride. This surrealistic series not only explores the magical girl genre but also deconstructs its tropes, making it a fascinating watch.
Cardcaptor Sakura
Image credit: Madhouse
Studio: Madhouse | Episode Count: 70 | Where to watch: Crunchyroll
Cardcaptor Sakura is a classic from CLAMP that transformed the magical girl genre. It blends magical elements with the card collecting craze, following Sakura as she accidentally releases the Clow Cards from a mysterious book. With the help of the guardian creature Cerberus, Sakura embarks on a quest to capture these cards, all while balancing her life as an elementary school girl. This fashion-forward, action-packed series is available on Crunchyroll.
Sailor Moon
Image credit: Toei Animation
Studio: Toei Animation | Episode Count: 200 + 3 TV Specials | Where to watch: Hulu
Topping our list is Naoko Takeuchi's groundbreaking Sailor Moon, a series that has left an indelible mark on anime. The story follows Usagi, a regular schoolgirl who becomes the titular Sailor Moon, battling evil with her fellow Sailor Scouts. With its iconic transformation sequences, stunning character designs, and deep character development, Sailor Moon is a timeless classic that continues to captivate audiences on Hulu.
What's the best magical girl anime of all time?
Sailor Moon
Little Witch Academia
Pastel Yumi, the Magic Idol
Tokyo Mew Mew
My-HiME
Pretty Cure
Puella Magi Madoka Magica
Magic Knight Rayearth
Revolutionary Girl Utena
Cardcaptor Sakura
Something else (let us know in the comments!)
And those are our picks for the best magical girl anime! They're all enchanting, but did your favorite make the cut? Let us know in the comments.
Looking for more anime to watch online? Take a look at our guide to the best vampire anime as well as our list of the most underrated anime series.
