Transformative, captivating, and heart-warming—the magical girl genre has been a cherished part of anime for over three decades. With its delightful tropes, unforgettable characters, and a dedicated fanbase, it's no wonder that magical girl anime continues to enchant viewers worldwide. While classics like Sailor Moon and Cardcaptor Sakura are well-known, there are numerous other gems waiting to be discovered. This list not only ranks the best magical girl anime but also aims to introduce you to new favorites, underrated treasures, and contemporary series to fill that magical girl-shaped void in your life.
So, prepare for a journey filled with 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 reimagines the magical girl trope for a post-Harry Potter generation. When Akko enrolls at the fantastical Luna Nova Magical Academy, her lifelong dream of learning magic begins to take shape. Despite her admiration for the famed witch Shiny Chariot, Akko struggles with her own lack of magical abilities. However, her fortunes change when she discovers a magical artifact linked to her idol. Driven by a mission to rekindle the world's love for magic, Akko's journey is a delightful blend of coming-of-age and witchcraft, centered around cozy friendships and a unique approach to magic. This enchanting series is a must-watch on Netflix.
There have been 25 episodes of Little Witch Academia across two seasons, but it's unclear whether a third season will be produced.
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 deservedly makes our list. It also features one of the most beloved anime and manga tropes: a protagonist aspiring to become a mangaka. Yumi's passion for art is matched only by her love for flowers, nurtured by her florist parents. Her life changes when she saves a flower and is rewarded with two magical gifts—a wand and a locket—that bring her drawings to life. Pastel Yumi, the Magic Idol is a retro and charming gem that's definitely 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 spin on the magical girl genre. The story follows Ichigo Momomiya, who gains her powers through an accident that infuses her with cat DNA. In a transformation reminiscent of werewolves, Ichigo becomes increasingly cat-like and uses her new abilities to connect with other affected girls. Together, they confront a mysterious alien threat tied to their powers. The series is wildly fun, and its new reboot elevates it to even greater heights.
My-HiME
Image credit: Sunrise
Studio: Sunrise | Episode Count: 26 + 26 DVD-only shorts | Where to watch: Crunchyroll
My-HiME seamlessly blends the magical girl trope with boarding school drama. When Mai joins the secretive Fuuka Academy, she's initially overwhelmed by its mysteries. Soon, she discovers her true purpose there—along with others who bear a special symbol allowing them to summon familiars known as "Children" to combat nightmarish creatures. These "Children" are deeply connected to someone the summoner loves, adding emotional depth to the high-stakes battles.
Pretty Cure
Image credit: Toei Animation
Studio: Toei Animation | Episode Count: 800 | Where to watch: Crunchyroll
If you're seeking a magical girl series with multiple seasons to dive into, Pretty Cure is perfect. With an impressive 800 episodes, it follows groups of young girls who gain magical powers to fight evil. This series epitomizes the classic magical girl narrative and has remained popular due to its delightful charm. Plus, it features adorable creatures alongside its magical girls, making it even more appealing.
Puella Magi Madoka Magica
Image credit: Shaft
Studio: Shaft | Episode Count: 12 | Where to watch: Crunchyroll and Hulu
Puella Magi Madoka Magica adds a darker, more textually magical twist to the genre, exploring the heartbreaking realities of being a magical girl. The story follows young women who become supernatural witch fighters after signing a contract with a seemingly innocuous cat-like creature. This series delves into themes of trauma, exploitation, and the manipulation of young people, offering a profound and thought-provoking take on the magical girl trope.
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 artist collective CLAMP, Magic Knight Rayearth is an ambitious universe-hopping magical girl series. It fulfills the fantasy of escaping everyday life for an adventure in a magical world. During a school field trip, friends Hikaru Shidou, Umi Ryuuzaki, and Fuu Hououji are transported to another dimension where they can control their surroundings with their will. This high fantasy epic showcases CLAMP's signature expansive worldbuilding, beautiful animation, and complex relationships. There were even Magic Knight Rayearth games released in the 90s.
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. Created by Chiho Saito and Be-Papas, this series blends romance, style, and chivalric themes. Utena, inspired by a charming prince she once met, decides to become a prince herself. This choice leads her into a secretive dueling contest at her school, where she becomes entangled with the enigmatic Rose Bride. This surrealistic series also serves as a meta-exploration of the genre's tropes and expectations.
Cardcaptor Sakura
Image credit: Madhouse
Studio: Madhouse | Episode Count: 70 | Where to watch: Crunchyroll
A classic from CLAMP, Cardcaptor Sakura was a transformative experience for many viewers. The series follows Sakura as she navigates life as an elementary school girl and a powerful magic user. After accidentally releasing the Clow Cards from a mysterious book in her basement, Sakura embarks on a quest to recapture them, aided by the cute and enigmatic creature, Cerberus. This fashion-forward, action-packed series combines magical girl elements with the card-collecting craze of its time.
Sailor Moon
Image credit: Toei Animation
Studio: Toei Animation | Episode Count: 200 + 3 TV Specials | Where to watch: Hulu
Naoko Takeuchi's Sailor Moon is undeniably the pinnacle of magical girl anime. One of the most globally renowned series, it follows Usagi, a typical schoolgirl who transforms into the titular Sailor Moon. The series is celebrated for its stunning animation, iconic character designs, and unforgettable transformation sequences. Each Sailor Scout is uniquely crafted, allowing fans to connect with their favorites. Hilarious, heartfelt, and action-packed, Sailor Moon is a must-watch for anime enthusiasts and a testament to the genre's impact.
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? Check out our guide to the best vampire anime as well as our list of the most underrated anime series.
