Genre mahou shoujo, or magical girlhas been captivating audiences for a long time, especially with stories that feature strong female characters fighting against evil forces. From lighthearted stories to darker themes, mahou shoujo provides a wealth of inspiration and iconic entertainment.
Here is the full list of the ten anime mahou shoujo best of all time, along with unique details that make each of these anime worth watching.
10. Senki Zesshou Symphogear (2012)
For those of you looking for a mix mahou shoujo, idol, and mecha, Senki Zesshou Symphogear is the right choice. This anime tells the story of Symphogear users, heroines who wear armor reinforced with the power of song to fight a threat called Noise.
It opened in 2012, Symphogear is known for its spectacular blend of musical action, as well as emotional storylines that captivate fans from all walks of life. Although the last season of this anime has ended in 2019, Symphogear is still remembered as one of the series mahou shoujo most unique and influential.
9. Fate/kaleid liner Prisma Illya (2013)
As spin-off from famous franchises Fate/stay night, Fate/kaleid liner Prisma Illya introducing elements mahou shoujo which is different. Illyasviel von Einzbern, who is usually a supporting character in the Fate universe, this time playing the role of magical girl. Released in 2013, Prisma Illya tells the story of Illya who is chosen by Ruby's magical wand to collect Class Cards, which contains the essence of a legendary hero.
With a blend of action, comedy, and depth Fate universeThis anime provides a unique and entertaining experience for fans. mahou shoujo or Fate/stay night.
8. Pretty Cure (2004)
Pretty Cure, also known as Precure, is a series mahou shoujo It's a classic that has over 20 seasons and more than 900 episodes. It started in 2004, Pretty Cure follows a group of girls who gain magical powers to fight evil and protect the world. With cute and colorful characters, this anime has managed to garner a loyal fan base.
Pretty Cure is still running today! Its latest season, Wonderful Precure, starting in February 2024, and the following season, Witchy Precure!!! MIRAI DAYS, scheduled for release on January 11, 2025 as the 23rd season, shows the long appeal of Pretty Cure that remains in high demand to this day.
7. Little Witch Academia (2017)
Released as a series in 2017 after the success of the short film in 2013, Little Witch Academia tell the story Atsuko "Akko" Kagari who dreams of becoming a great wizard like her idol, Shiny Chariot. Characterized by colorful animation and strong themes of friendship, the anime presents Akko's journey at Luna Nova Magical Academy, where she learns to master magic despite having no natural talent.
Little Witch Academia emphasizes the perseverance and dreams of Akko, who strives to prove that anyone can achieve their dreams with passion and hard work. The series is available on Netflix, making it easily accessible to watch anytime.
6. Ojamajo Doremi (1999)
Ojamajo Doremi is an anime mahou shoujo that combines humor and the value of friendship. Released in 1999, this anime tells the story of Doremi Harukaze, a girl who dreams of becoming a witch. When she accidentally discovers that the owner of the local shop is a witch, Doremi begins her journey as a novice witch, or a witch. ojamajo. Together with her friends, she learns to use magic while facing everyday challenges.
Recently, to celebrate the 25th anniversary, Ojamajo Doremi released a new video titled "Ojamajo Doremi New Video: MAHO-DŌ - Ojamajo Carnival!!" which first aired at AnimeJapan 2024.
The video features animated dance choreography to the song "Ojamajo Carnival!!" which was originally the opening song for the TV series Ojamajo Doremi. In addition, a second video was also released to celebrate the birthday of the main character, Doremi Harukaze, adding to the nostalgia for loyal fans.
5. Magical Girl Lyrical Nanoha (2004)
Magical Girl Lyrical Nanoha first aired in 2004, beginning with the simple story of Nanoha meeting a creature named Yuuno. Yuuno, who is in ferret form, asks Nanoha for help in collecting scattered magic gems. However, Nanoha's story then evolves into a more mature and complex tale, full of plot twists and deep characters.
Apart from coming in the form of an anime series, Magical Girl Lyrical Nanoha also has four movies, a spin-off manga, and a series of game adaptations. The last movie aired in 2018 titled Magical Girl Lyrical Nanoha: DETONATION which adopted the story of one of its adaptation games on PlayStation Portable. While the latest spin-off manga, Magical Girl Lyrical Nanoha: FORCE still continues and tells the story of Nanoha and her friends who have grown up.
Throughout the TV series and movies, Nanoha grows from a young girl to a strong and resilient woman, taking on more responsibilities and guiding generations of women. magical girl Next. This anime is perfect for viewers who are looking for a serious side to the genre. mahou shoujo.
4. Magic Knight Rayearth (1994)
This classic 90s anime blends elements of mahou shoujo with isekai and fantasy. Magic Knight Rayearth released in 1994 tells the story of three girls who are summoned to the world of Cephiro to save it. They are given powers as Magic Knights and face various challenges on their journey. Unique, Rayearth is not only about victory and strength, but also presents aspects of sacrifice and failure, which gives it emotional depth.
Now, to commemorate the 30th anniversary, a new project has been announced that will bring back the original Magic Knight Rayearth.
3. Puella Magi Madoka Magica (2011)
Puella Magi Madoka Magica is an anime that revolutionarily changes the view of the mahou shoujo when it was released in 2011. This anime breaks the stereotype magical girl by exposing the dark side and the risks that must be faced by the mahou shoujo.
Known for its surprising plot twists and deep themes, Madoka Magica explores the lives of girls involved in a magical world that is not what they imagined.
Madoka Magica remains relevant today, with the latest project being the movie Walpurgisnacht Rising which is scheduled for release in winter 2025.
2. Cardcaptor Sakura (1998)
It was first released in 1998, Cardcaptor Sakura tells the story of Sakura Kinomoto, a young girl who inadvertently releases Clow Cards who has great power. His job as Card Captor is to collect the cards so that they don't fall into the wrong hands.
This anime is the perfect introduction to the genre mahou shoujoThis is the first of its kind, with magical transformations, a companion character named Keroberos, and challenges that test Sakura's mettle.
In addition to this classic series, Cardcaptor Sakura has a sequel titled Cardcaptor Sakura: Clear Card which aired in 2018.
1. Sailor Moon (1992)
As a genre pioneer mahou shoujo, Sailor Moon was first released in 1992 and has become a global icon. The story follows Usagi Tsukino, a school girl who transforms into Sailor Moon to protect Earth from evil forces. With over 200 episodes, Sailor Moon has brought stories of action and friendship that inspire fans around the world.
In 2014, a new adaptation titled Sailor Moon Crystal was released to commemorate the series' 20th anniversary. Sailor Moon Crystal brings a more modern animation style and a storyline more faithful to the original manga, reintroducing this iconic story to a new generation. In addition, Sailor Moon Crystal and the two new movies are now available on Netflix, so fans new and old can enjoy this classic story again with ease.
With themes of friendship, love, and the fight against darkness, Sailor Moon remains a perennial favorite. The anime's legacy makes it a major inspiration in the genre of mahou shoujo until now.
Genre mahou shoujo offers many inspiring and entertaining stories with a variety of styles and stories. From colorful action to heartfelt narratives, each anime on this list brings a unique appeal to its audience.
