Transformative. Captivating. Heart-warming. The magical girl genre has captivated anime enthusiasts for over three decades, weaving enchanting tales filled with delightful tropes, unforgettable characters, and a dedicated fanbase. While classics like Sailor Moon and Cardcaptor Sakura are well-known, there's a treasure trove of magical girl anime waiting to be explored. Our definitive ranking showcases the best of the genre, introducing you to new favorites, underrated gems, and contemporary offerings that will fill that magical girl-shaped void in your life.
So, prepare for a journey through witches, cat DNA, magical rods, and more! Here are the 10 most enchanting magical girl anime of all time.
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Image credit: Netflix
Studio: Studio Trigger | Episode Count: 25 | Where to watch: Netflix
Little Witch Academia is an adorable magical school story that reimagines the magical girl trope for the post-Harry Potter era. When Akko enrolls at the fantastical Luna Nova Magical Academy, her lifelong dream of learning magic comes true, despite her initial lack of magical talent. Inspired by the famed witch Shiny Chariot, Akko's journey takes a turn when she discovers a magical artifact linked to her idol. Driven by a mission to reignite the world's love for magic, Akko's coming-of-age story blends witchcraft and cozy friendships in a unique and delightful series, available to stream on Netflix.
There have been 25 episodes of Little Witch Academia across two seasons, but there's no confirmation yet on a third season.
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, earning its spot on our list. It also features one of the best anime and manga tropes: a protagonist aspiring to become a mangaka. Yumi's passion for art and flowers, influenced by her florist parents, leads her to a magical encounter where she saves a flower and is gifted with a wand and locket. These magical tools bring her drawings to life, making Pastel Yumi, the Magic Idol a retro and charming gem that deserves more attention.
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 her powers from an accident that infuses her with cat DNA. Her transformation into a cat-like heroine leads her to join forces with other affected girls to combat an alien threat linked to their new abilities. With its fun and wild premise, and an impressive reboot, Tokyo Mew Mew is a must-watch for fans of the genre.
Image credit: Sunrise
Studio: Sunrise | Episode Count: 26 + 26 DVD-only shorts | Where to watch: Crunchyroll
My-HiME seamlessly blends magical girl elements with boarding school drama. Mai's life changes dramatically upon enrolling at the secretive Fuuka Academy. As she navigates the mysterious environment, she discovers her purpose and the existence of others like her, marked with a special symbol that allows them to summon a familiar to fight nightmarish creatures. The deep connection between these "Children" and the people they love adds intense stakes to the series, available on Crunchyroll.
Image credit: Toei Animation
Studio: Toei Animation | Episode Count: 800 | Where to watch: Crunchyroll
For those seeking a magical girl series to binge, Pretty Cure offers an impressive 800 episodes centered around the classic premise of young girls gaining magical powers to battle evil. This technicolor and super-cute series has endured due to its charm and delightful storytelling. With its adorable creatures and engaging narrative, Pretty Cure is a must-watch available on Crunchyroll.
Image credit: Shaft
Studio: Shaft | Episode Count: 12 | Where to watch: Crunchyroll and Hulu
Puella Magi Madoka Magica redefines the magical girl genre with a dark and poignant narrative. The series follows young women who become supernatural witch fighters after entering into a contract with a mysterious cat-like creature. While the setup may seem traditional, the show delves into the harsh realities of being a magical girl, exploring themes of trauma, exploitation, and the manipulation of young people. Available on Crunchyroll and Hulu, it's a profound and thought-provoking take on the genre.
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 an ambitious series that transports friends Hikaru Shidou, Umi Ryuuzaki, and Fuu Hououji to a magical world during a school field trip. This high fantasy epic showcases CLAMP's signature expansive worldbuilding, beautiful animation, and complex relationships. With its engaging narrative and the nostalgic charm of its 90s games, Magic Knight Rayearth is a series you can revisit time and again, available on Crunchyroll and Prime Video.
Image credit: J.C. Staff
Studio: J.C. Staff | Episode Count: 39 | Where to watch: Not available to stream
Revolutionary Girl Utena stands out as one of the most influential and subversive magical girl anime. Inspired by chivalry and romance, the story follows Utena, an orphan who aspires to become a prince after meeting a charming one. This decision shapes her life and leads her into a secretive dueling contest at her school, where she becomes entangled with the enigmatic Rose Bride. With its surrealistic style and meta exploration of genre tropes, Revolutionary Girl Utena offers a unique and compelling experience.
Image credit: Madhouse
Studio: Madhouse | Episode Count: 70 | Where to watch: Crunchyroll
Cardcaptor Sakura, another masterpiece from CLAMP, transformed the magical girl genre for a generation. The series follows Sakura as she navigates life as an elementary school girl and a powerful magic user tasked with capturing the dangerous Clow Cards. With the help of the charming creature Cerberus, Sakura embarks on an action-packed and fashion-forward adventure. Available on Crunchyroll, Cardcaptor Sakura remains a beloved classic.
Image credit: Toei Animation
Studio: Toei Animation | Episode Count: 200 + 3 TV Specials | Where to watch: Hulu
Topping our list is the iconic Sailor Moon, created by Naoko Takeuchi. This groundbreaking series follows Usagi, a typical schoolgirl who transforms into the titular hero. With its stunning animation, memorable character designs, and the legendary transformation sequence, Sailor Moon is the quintessential magical girl anime. The well-developed Sailor Scouts each offer unique personalities, making the series a rich, emotional, and action-packed experience. Available on Hulu, Sailor Moon remains a must-watch for anime enthusiasts.
AnswerSee ResultsAnd 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.
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