Best Action Anime Of 2020: Top 10 Picks

Alright guys, gather 'round because we're about to dive deep into the absolute best action anime that 2020 had to offer! It was a killer year for us anime fans, and if you're anything like me, you were probably glued to your screens, cheering, gasping, and maybe even shedding a tear or two at the sheer awesomeness. We're talking about heart-pounding fights, incredible animation, and stories that will stick with you long after the credits roll. Get ready to update your watchlists, because this is the ultimate rundown of the top 10 action anime 2020 served up just for you.

1. Jujutsu Kaisen

If you haven't jumped on the Jujutsu Kaisen train yet, what are you even doing, my dudes? This anime absolutely exploded onto the scene in 2020 and for good reason. We follow Yuji Itadori, a ridiculously charismatic high schooler who, thanks to a fateful encounter with a cursed object, finds himself swallowing a finger of the ancient and feared curse, Sukuna. Yeah, you heard that right. He literally becomes a vessel for a demon king, and thus begins his journey into the world of Jujutsu Sorcerers. The action sequences in Jujutsu Kaisen are, and I cannot stress this enough, phenomenal. MAPPA, the studio behind this masterpiece, went all out. The fluidity of the animation, the impact of every punch, kick, and cursed technique feels incredibly visceral. It's not just about flashy moves; the choreography is smart, strategic, and visually stunning. Each fight feels like a meticulously crafted dance of destruction. Beyond the jaw-dropping fights, the characters are incredibly well-developed. Yuji’s earnestness and determination, Megumi’s cool demeanor and evolving power, and Nobara’s fiery spirit – they all have their own compelling arcs. The world-building is also top-notch, introducing a complex system of cursed energy and the terrifying Curses that inhabit the world. The blend of supernatural horror, intense action, and surprisingly heartfelt moments makes Jujutsu Kaisen a must-watch. Seriously, the stakes are always high, and you're constantly on the edge of your seat wondering how Yuji and his friends will overcome the next overwhelming threat. The sheer creativity in the cursed techniques, from simple domain expansions to more intricate uses of spiritual energy, keeps every battle fresh and exciting. It’s the kind of anime that reminds you why you fell in love with the genre in the first place – pure, unadulterated, awesome action.

2. Attack on Titan: The Final Season Part 1

Okay, guys, let's talk about Attack on Titan. The fact that the final season started in 2020 means it absolutely has to be on this list. This season took the already epic narrative and cranked the intensity up to eleven, maybe even twelve. We're no longer just fighting titans; the scope has expanded massively, plunging us into a complex political and military conflict that redefines everything we thought we knew about Paradis Island and the world beyond. The introduction of Marley and the warriors from across the sea adds so many layers to the already intricate plot. The action here isn't just about survival against monstrous creatures anymore; it's about warfare on a scale we haven't seen before. The ODM gear battles are still there, thrilling as ever, but they're now part of much larger, more devastating clashes. The animation, handled by MAPPA for this season, maintains the high standard we expect, delivering brutal and impactful combat. Witnessing characters we've known and loved for years thrown into these new, morally grey situations is heart-wrenching and captivating. The narrative shifts dramatically, forcing Eren and his friends to confront the grim realities of their world and the consequences of their actions. The sheer weight of the storytelling, combined with the explosive action, makes this a truly unforgettable part of the Attack on Titan saga. You're constantly questioning who the real enemy is and grappling with the ethical dilemmas presented. The strategic depth of the battles, coupled with the raw emotional power of the characters' struggles, makes this season a masterpiece of action and storytelling. It’s the culmination of years of buildup, and it delivers in spades, leaving you breathless and desperate for more.

3. Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba the Movie: Mugen Train

I mean, do I even need to say it? Demon Slayer: Mugen Train isn't just an anime movie; it's a cultural phenomenon! It shattered box office records worldwide, and once you see it, you'll understand why. This film picks up right after the first season, following Tanjiro, Nezuko, Zenitsu, and Inosuke as they board the mysterious Mugen Train to hunt down a demon that has caused the disappearances of dozens of passengers. What unfolds is an emotional rollercoaster packed with some of the most breathtakingly animated fight scenes in anime history. Ufotable's animation is, as always, absolutely stunning. The way they depict the Water Breathing techniques and the Flame Hashira's power is pure art. Every slash, every block, every explosion of energy is rendered with incredible detail and fluidity. But it's not just about the visual spectacle. The story delves deeper into the characters, particularly the Flame Hashira, Kyojuro Rengoku, whose vibrant personality and unwavering conviction are incredibly inspiring. We also get a more intense look at the demons themselves and the psychological torment they inflict. The fights are not only visually spectacular but also carry immense emotional weight, as the characters confront their own fears and traumas within the dream-like state induced by the demon. It’s a perfect blend of thrilling action, character development, and poignant storytelling. If you're looking for pure, unadulterated hype with a side of feels, Mugen Train is your ticket. It’s the kind of movie that makes you feel every strike, every victory, and every loss. The synergy between the characters and their fighting styles is also a highlight, showcasing how teamwork and individual strengths combine to overcome insurmountable odds. This film truly solidified Demon Slayer's place as a modern action anime classic.

4. Re:ZERO -Starting Life in Another World- Season 2 Part 1

For those who love a good dose of psychological torment mixed with their action, Re:ZERO Season 2 Part 1 was a godsend in 2020. This season takes Subaru Natsuki's already harrowing journey and plunges him into even darker, more introspective territory. While the flashy, overt action sequences might be less frequent than in other titles on this list, the sheer intensity of Subaru's struggles and the psychological battles he faces are a form of action in themselves. He's constantly facing overwhelming odds, and his