One of the best Shonen Jump anime of all time, Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood, is a Japanese anime television series directed by Yasuhiro Irie. Two characters Edward and Alphonse Elric are reared in the secluded village of Resembool in the land of Amestris by their mother Trisha Elric. Their father Hohenheim, a well-known and skilled alchemist, abandoned his family while the boys were young, and while in Trisha's care, they developed an interest in alchemy and grew interested about its secrets. They were looked for by their best friend Winry Rockbell and her grandmother Pinako after Trisha died of a protracted illness. The guys traveled the world to further their alchemic studies with Izumi Curtis. When they return home, the two resolve to use alchemy to bring their mother back to life.

"Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood" explores a wide range of themes, including:

• Alchemy and Equivalent Exchange: Central to the series is the concept of alchemy, where practitioners can transform matter using the Law of Equivalent Exchange. This theme underscores the idea that there are consequences for every action and that nothing comes without a price.
  
• Brotherhood and Sacrifice: The bond between the two main characters, Edward and Alphonse Elric, is a central theme. Their journey is a testament to the sacrifices they make for each other and the lengths they go to restore their bodies after a failed alchemical experiment.
  
• Redemption and Atonement: Several characters in the series grapple with their past mistakes and seek redemption for their actions. This theme is particularly prominent in the character arcs of the Homunculi.

Directed by: Yasuhiro Irie

Air dates: April 5, 2009

IMDb rating: 9.1

One Piece is another best Shonen Jump anime of all time, a highly popular and long-running Japanese manga and anime series created by Eiichiro Oda. It has captured the hearts of fans worldwide with its unique blend of adventure, humor, action, and deeply developed characters.

"One Piece" follows the adventures of Monkey D. Luffy, a young and ambitious pirate with the ability to stretch his body like rubber after consuming a Devil Fruit. Luffy assembles a diverse crew known as the Straw Hat Pirates, and they set out on a journey to find the ultimate treasure, the "One Piece," and become the Pirate King.

The plot is filled with epic battles, intricate world-building, and a grand overarching narrative that unveils mysteries about the world, its history, and the characters' pasts. The story is set in a vast and imaginative world known as the Grand Line, which is teeming with unique islands, bizarre creatures, and powerful foes.

"One Piece" boasts a vast and memorable cast of characters, each with their own quirks, abilities, and backstories. Luffy's crew, the Straw Hat Pirates, is particularly well-developed, with each member having their own dreams and motivations. From the fearless swordsman Roronoa Zoro to the talented navigator Nami, the characters' growth and camaraderie are central to the series.

The series also features a wide range of antagonists, allies, and side characters, many of whom are as compelling as the main cast. The depth of character development is one of the series' strengths, as it explores themes of friendship, loyalty, and personal growth.

Directed by: Kōnosuke Uda

Air dates: October 20, 1999

IMDb rating: 8.9

"Death Note" is one of the best Shonen Jump anime of all time, revolves around a high school student named Light Yagami, who stumbles upon a mysterious notebook known as the "Death Note." This notebook has the power to kill anyone whose name is written in it, as long as the writer has their face in mind. The Death Note also comes with a set of rules, and its owner, a Shinigami (death god) named Ryuk, watches with fascination as Light starts using it to eliminate criminals and bring about a utopian world free of wrongdoing.

One of the standout features of "Death Note" is the high-stakes battle of wits between Light Yagami and the enigmatic detective known as L. Their cat-and-mouse game, as Light uses the Death Note to carry out his vision of justice and L tries to capture him, forms the core of the series. The intricate strategies, mind games, and constant tension make "Death Note" a gripping experience.

Both Light Yagami and L undergo significant character development throughout the series. Light's descent into megalomania and L's unorthodox methods and quirks make them compelling and multi-dimensional characters. The series is known for its psychological depth and thrilling narrative. The constant tension and suspense keep viewers on the edge of their seats as they watch the battle of wits unfold.

Directed by: Tetsurō Araki

Air dates: October 4, 2006

IMDb rating: 8.9

Dragon Ball Z is an iconic anime series that has been enjoyed by fans of all ages for decades. It is the sequel to Dragon Ball, and follows the adventures of Goku as he trains to become the strongest warrior in the universe. The series is full of action, adventure, and humor, and it has helped to define the shonen genre.

One of the things that makes Dragon Ball Z so great is its cast of characters. Goku is a lovable protagonist who is always striving to improve himself. He is joined by a cast of talented friends and allies, including Vegeta, Gohan, and Piccolo. These characters are all well-developed and relatable, and they help to make the series so enjoyable to watch.

The action in Dragon Ball Z is also top-notch. The series features some of the most iconic battles in anime history, including Goku's fight against Vegeta, Frieza, and Majin Buu. These battles are full of excitement and suspense, and they always leave viewers on the edge of their seats.

In addition to action and adventure, Dragon Ball Z also has a good dose of humor. The series is full of funny moments, and it always manages to keep viewers entertained. This helps to make the series more accessible to a wider audience, and it helps to make it more enjoyable to watch.

Directed by: Akira Toriyama

Air dates: April 26, 1989

IMDb rating: 8.8

"One-Punch Man" is a popular and unique shonen anime and manga series that deviates from some of the traditional shonen tropes while embracing others. The main character, Saitama, is a departure from the typical shonen protagonist. He is an ordinary-looking, bald man with no distinctive features. However, he possesses unparalleled strength and the ability to defeat any opponent with a single punch. This subverts the usual trajectory of a hero's growth and development.

Saitama's character arc is unique in that he is already immensely powerful from the start, and his primary struggle is with the boredom and lack of challenge that comes with his strength. He seeks an opponent who can provide him with a real fight. The series features a variety of villains and rival heroes, many of whom are eccentric and comically exaggerated in their appearances and abilities. Some of these characters become recurring foes for Saitama and his allies.

The world of "One-Punch Man" is filled with monsters, mutants, and heroes with superhuman abilities. These elements play a significant role in the story and are a source of both conflict and humor. While the series has overarching storylines, it often parodies the typical shonen storytelling structure. Saitama's desire to find a worthy opponent and his encounters with various characters are the central focus rather than a grand, world-saving quest.

Directed by: Shingo Natsume

Air dates: October 5, 2015

IMDb rating: 8.7

"Haikyuu!!" is a highly acclaimed sports anime and manga series that revolves around the sport of volleyball. Created by Haruichi Furudate, the series follows the journey of Shoyo Hinata, a determined and undersized high school student with a burning passion for volleyball. Despite his stature, Hinata aspires to become a top-level player. The series is known for its compelling character development, intense volleyball matches, and the theme of teamwork. It also explores the rivalries between different high school teams, particularly Karasuno High School, where Hinata and his teammates aim to revive their school's volleyball legacy.

"Haikyuu!!" has captivated audiences with its combination of sportsmanship, humor, and the unyielding spirit of its characters. With multiple seasons of the anime and a successful manga run, it has garnered a dedicated fan base and remains a standout in the world of shonen anime.

Moreover, a key theme in shonen anime is character growth through training and perseverance. In Haikyuu!!, the characters continuously work on improving their volleyball skills and teamwork, leading to noticeable progress throughout the series. The importance of teamwork and camaraderie is a central theme. The members of the Karasuno volleyball team develop strong bonds as they work together to achieve their goals, mirroring the theme of friendship common in shonen anime.

Directed by: Susumu Mitsunaka

Air dates: April 6, 2014

IMDb rating: 8.7

"Gintama" is one of the best unique and beloved shonen anime that stands out due to its distinctive blend of comedy, action, and satire. "Gintama" is set in an alternate-history version of Edo-era Japan, where aliens have invaded and transformed the country's capital into a futuristic and anachronistic city known as Edo. The series follows Gintoki Sakata, a lazy and unassuming samurai, and his eclectic group of friends as they navigate this chaotic world. The plot often combines serious story arcs with episodic comedy, creating a wide range of tonal shifts.

One of "Gintama's" defining features is its humor. It's known for its irreverent, meta, and self-aware comedy. The series frequently parodies other anime, manga, and pop culture, breaking the fourth wall and making references that will be appreciated by fans of the medium. The absurd situations, witty banter, and slapstick comedy contribute to its appeal. Despite its comedic nature, "Gintama" offers meaningful character development for its cast. Gintoki and his companions grow and evolve over the course of the series, and viewers become emotionally invested in their journeys.

Like many shonen anime, "Gintama" explores themes of friendship, resilience, and the importance of standing up for what's right. The characters' unwavering loyalty to each other and their determination to protect their home and ideals are central to the series.

Directed by: Chizuru Miyawaki, Yoichi Fujita, Shinji Takamatsu

Air dates: April 4, 2006

IMDb rating: 8.7

Another best Shonen Jump anime of all time is Hunter X Hunter, an immensely popular and critically acclaimed shonen anime and manga series created by Yoshihiro Togashi. One of the standout features of "Hunter x Hunter" is its well-developed and multi-dimensional characters. Each character has unique motivations, backstories, and personal growth arcs. Gon, Killua, Kurapika, and Leorio, the main characters, all undergo significant character development over the course of the series.

The series explores themes of friendship, determination, and the pursuit of one's goals. Gon and his friends form deep bonds as they face various challenges and adversaries. Their unwavering determination to achieve their objectives is central to the story. Besides, "Hunter x Hunter" introduces the Nen system, a complex and versatile power system that allows characters to develop unique and personalized abilities. Nen battles are strategically and intellectually engaging, adding depth to the action sequences.

The series is divided into several story arcs, each with its own unique tone and narrative focus. These arcs include the Hunter Exam, Yorknew City, Greed Island, Chimera Ants, and more. Each arc presents new challenges, adversaries, and world-building elements that keep viewers invested.

Directed by: Kazuhiro Furuhashi

Air dates: October 16, 1999

IMDb rating: 8.6

"Demon Slayer", also known as "Kimetsu no Yaiba" in Japanese, is a popular and highly regarded anime and manga series that incorporates various elements commonly found in shonen anime. The main character, Tanjiro Kamado, embodies the determined and hardworking protagonist often found in shonen anime. His primary goal is to avenge his family and find a cure for his sister, who has been turned into a demon.

"Demon Slayer" features intense and visually stunning action sequences. The series revolves around demon slayers who engage in battles against powerful demons, and these battles are a major focal point of the story. In addition, Tanjiro undergoes rigorous training to become a skilled demon slayer. His growth, both in terms of combat abilities and character develpoment, is a central theme in the series.

Tanjiro forms strong bonds with other demon slayers, including Zenitsu and Inosuke. The theme of friendship and teamwork is prominent as they face formidable demons together. Besides, the series features memorable villains, particularly the Twelve Kizuki and Muzan Kibutsuji. Tanjiro's determination to defeat these powerful foes and avenge his family drives much of the plot.

Directed by: Haruo Sotozaki

Air dates: April 6, 2019

IMDb rating: 8.6

"Jujutsu Kaisen" is a popular anime and manga series that incorporates several elements commonly found in shonen anime. The main character, Yuji Itadori, the protagonist of the series, Yuji is a high school student with remarkable physical abilities. He becomes a jujutsu sorcerer after consuming a cursed object containing the powerful curse, Sukuna Ryomen. Despite his nonchalant demeanor, Yuji is determined to help others and protect his friends.

Megumi is a fellow first-year jujutsu sorcerer and one of Yuji's closest allies. He wields a powerful shikigami, a magical creature, and specializes in exorcising curses. Megumi is reserved and dedicated to his duties as a sorcerer. Another first-year jujutsu sorcerer, Nobara is known for her assertive personality and combat skills. She uses a special cursed hammer to exorcise curses and is unapologetically straightforward.

Satoru Gojo is a high-ranking jujutsu sorcerer and Yuji's mentor. He is known for his exceptional power and eccentric personality. Gojo possesses the Limitless Cursed Technique and is one of the most powerful characters in the series. Next to Gojo satoru, Sukuna, also known as Ryomen Sukuna, is the primary antagonist of the series. He is a fearsome curse and a legendary figure in the world of jujutsu sorcery. His presence looms large over the story, and he becomes a major source of conflict.

These are just a few of the prominent characters in "Jujutsu Kaisen." The series introduces a wide range of jujutsu sorcerers, curses, and other characters, each contributing to the complexity of the story and the dynamics within the jujutsu sorcerer world. Character development and interactions are key elements of the series, making the cast an integral part of its appeal. In "Jujutsu Kaisen" features intense and well-choreographed battles between sorcerers and curses. The combat scenes are a significant focus of the series and are known for their dynamic animation.

Directed by: Sunghoo Park

Air dates: October 3, 2020

IMDb rating: 8.5

"Naruto" is undoubtedly one of the most iconic and beloved shonen anime series of all time. Created by Masashi Kishimoto, it has left a lasting impact on the world of anime and manga. "Naruto" is set in a richly developed fictional world divided into various ninja villages, each with its unique culture and techniques. The story follows Naruto Uzumaki, a young ninja with dreams of becoming the Hokage, the leader of his village, and his journey to achieve this goal.

Friendship and determination are core themes of "Naruto." The bonds formed among Naruto, Sasuke, and Sakura, as well as their interactions with other characters, are central to the narrative. Naruto's unwavering determination to never give up, even in the face of seemingly insurmountable obstacles, is a source of inspiration.

"Naruto" introduces complex and multi-dimensional villains, such as Orochimaru, and Pain, who challenge Naruto's beliefs and motivations. The rivalries between characters like Naruto and Sasuke add depth to the story and result in some of the series' most memorable battles. The series is known for its well-animated and strategic ninja battles. The use of various jutsu (ninja techniques) adds depth and excitement to the action sequences, making them a highlight of the series.

"Naruto" imparts valuable life lessons and moral values, such as the importance of empathy, understanding, and perseverance. It explores themes of redemption, forgiveness, and the consequences of one's actions. In this anime has left a significant cultural impact, inspiring a dedicated fanbase, spin-off series like "Naruto: Shippuden" and "Boruto: Naruto Next Generations," and a wide range of merchandise and adaptations.

Directed by: Hayato Date

Air dates: October 3, 2002

IMDb rating: 8.4

Last one, "Black Clover", is set in a world where magic is everything, and those without magic are often looked down upon. The story follows Asta, a boy born without magic in a society where it's a common ability. Despite this, Asta aspires to become the Wizard King, the most powerful mage in the Clover Kingdom. The plot revolves around his journey to achieve this dream.

Asta is a quintessential shonen protagonist, characterized by his unwavering determination and boundless energy. His resolve to overcome his lack of magic with hard work and perseverance drives the series forward. Friendship and rivalry play a significant role in "Black Clover." Asta's rivalry with Yuno, a childhood friend and a prodigious mage, motivates both characters to become stronger. The bonds formed with their fellow Magic Knights are central to the story.

Magic battles are a core element of the series. "Black Clover" features an array of magical abilities and spells, each with its unique properties and strengths. The action sequences are fast-paced and visually engaging. The series also excels in character development. Asta, Yuno, and other members of the Black Bulls Magic Knights Squad undergo significant growth, not only in terms of magical abilities but also as individuals. Their personal struggles and triumphs are compelling.

Directed by: Tatsuya Yoshihara

Air dates: October 3, 2017

IMDb rating: 8.3