14 Best Underrated Anime with Over 100 Episodes You Must Watch

Anime fans often feel frustrated when a captivating story ends too soon. Luckily, long-format anime provides the perfect solution. These underrated anime with over 100 episodes allow viewers to dive deep into complex narratives, detailed world-building, and character growth spanning multiple arcs. These series are ideal for fans looking to immerse themselves in binge-worthy stories that deliver consistent excitement. If some of these anime are region-locked, using a VPN like NordVPN will help you access them.

Below is a curated list of some of the best underrated anime with over 100 episodes. These series may not always be widely recognized but deserve more attention for their depth, storytelling, and unique charm. If you’re struggling to find where to stream them, most can be found on one of the 14 streaming platforms listed here. To avoid interruptions, remember to use a good VPN and an adblocker for a seamless viewing experience.

Space Brothers

Uchū Kyōdai

Synopsis: Space Brothers follows two siblings, Mutta and Hibito, who share a childhood dream of becoming astronauts. While Hibito achieves his goal, Mutta struggles to find his path, sparking a heartwarming journey of self-discovery as he rekindles his aspirations of space exploration.
Release Date: April 2012 – March 2014
Length: 99 Episodes

What Makes This an Underrated Anime

Space Brothers may not quite hit the “anime with over 100 episodes” mark, but it’s pretty close and truly an underrated anime. It appeals to those who enjoy realistic storytelling and narratives about personal growth and rekindling dreams.. The series stands out for its mature themes, particularly how it addresses the challenges of adulthood, career setbacks, and the persistence needed to pursue lifelong ambitions. The story resonates strongly with adult audiences, as it tackles the idea of rekindling dreams later in life. Its depiction of space programs like NASA adds a layer of authenticity, offering a rare, accurate look into the world of space exploration, making it all the more captivating for viewers interested in science and technology.

What sets Space Brothers apart from other underrated anime with over 100 episodes is its focus on perseverance, realism, and emotional depth without relying on flashy battles or supernatural elements. It subverts typical anime tropes, choosing instead to highlight the realistic challenges of pursuing one’s dreams in the face of adversity. The emotional connection between the two brothers, Mutta and Hibito, serves as the heart of the story, making it a touching and motivational experience. The combination of its inspiring message and meticulous attention to detail in depicting space travel makes Space Brothers a truly underrated anime gem.

World Trigger

World Trigger

Synopsis:World Trigger revolves around a mysterious gate that opens, leading to an invasion of Earth by beings called Neighbors. The story follows Osamu Mikumo and his friends as they defend their world using advanced weapons called Triggers.
Release Date: October 2014 – Ongoing
Length: 99 Episodes

What Makes This an Underrated Anime

What sets World Trigger apart is its meticulous focus on strategy and teamwork, making it a standout in the shonen genre. Unlike many typical protagonists who gain immense power overnight, Osamu Mikumo remains relatively weak but compensates with sharp intelligence and well-crafted tactics. This long-term character progression adds a layer of realism and nuance rarely seen in similar shows. The methodical pacing allows the narrative to develop gradually, focusing on the intricacies of teamwork rather than relying solely on flashy battles.

As the story unfolds, viewers get drawn into the tactical warfare between humans and the enigmatic Neighbors, with each character contributing in meaningful ways to the larger plot. It’s a refreshing break from the usual “power of friendship” trope that dominates many other anime. The cliffhangers during its initial airing made it a nail-biting experience, but now it serves as the perfect binge-worthy show for those who appreciate deep, thought-out battles that emphasize wit over brute strength.

Gintama

Gintama

Synopsis
Set in an alternate version of Edo-era Japan, Gintama chronicles the adventures of Gintoki Sakata, a former samurai, and his friends as they take on odd jobs in a world ruled by alien invaders. The series seamlessly blends absurd comedy with poignant, emotional arcs.
Release Date: April 2006 – October 2018
Length: 367 Episodes + Movies

What Makes This an Underrated Anime

Gintama easily clears the “anime with over 100 episodes” criteria. Despite its immense popularity in Japan and high ratings on MyAnimeList, Gintama remains somewhat underrated outside of Japan, particularly in Western markets. The series is often overlooked due to its unconventional blend of genres, seamlessly switching between absurd comedy, action-packed sequences, and emotional drama. One of the standout aspects of Gintama is its frequent 4th-wall breaking, where characters openly acknowledge the fact that they are in an anime. Often using it to parody the anime industry and poke fun at its own production. This unique humor, filled with parody and meta-commentary, might deter casual viewers, but for those who appreciate its intricacies, it offers a completely original experience.

What makes Gintama truly underrated is how it defies expectations, going beyond just being a comedy series. Its dramatic moments, particularly during the more serious arcs, showcase intricate world-building and character development that elevates the story to new heights. The depth of its characters, especially Gintoki Sakata and his companions, brings emotional weight that contrasts with the show’s lightheartedness. For fans who can embrace its eccentric nature, Gintama offers one of the most satisfying and multifaceted viewing experiences in anime, making it a hidden masterpiece for those seeking a blend of humor and emotional storytelling.

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Legend of the Galactic Heroes

Ginga Eiyū Densetsu

Synopsis
This epic saga focuses on the battle between the Galactic Empire and the Free Planets Alliance, weaving political intrigue, military strategies, and philosophical discussions into a space opera like no other.
Release Date: January 1988 – March 1997
Length: 110 Episodes + Movies

What Makes This an Underrated Anime

Legend of the Galactic Heroes is a highly underrated anime that offers a rich and layered space opera experience, appealing to viewers who enjoy grand, intricate storytelling. This epic series delves into the ongoing conflict between the Galactic Empire and the Free Planets Alliance, weaving together military strategies, political intrigue, and philosophical debates on the nature of power and governance. Each side presents a compelling argument, making the viewer sympathize with both the autocratic empire and the democratic alliance.

The battles are not just physical but intellectual, as both sides employ sophisticated tactics, making each engagement feel like a game of chess. The character-driven narrative allows for deep investment in figures like Reinhard von Lohengramm and Yang Wen-li, whose leadership styles and moral dilemmas keep viewers thoroughly engrossed. Though its length and pacing may deter some, Legend of the Galactic Heroes is the kind of series that rewards patience with rich storytelling and an expansive world. Fans of more reflective, thought-provoking anime will find this a deeply satisfying watch.

Considering that the original anime is often region-locked, using a VPN is highly recommended to unlock access to the entire saga.

D.Gray-Man

D.Gray-Man

Synopsis
D.Gray-Man follows Allen Walker, a young exorcist with a cursed eye, as he joins the Black Order to fight the Millennium Earl and his army of Akuma, demonic creatures bent on destroying humanity. The series delves into Allen’s personal struggles and growth, making him a relatable protagonist, while uncovering deeper backstories and the larger battle between exorcists and evil forces
Release Date: October 2006 – September 2016
Length: 116 Episodes

What Makes This an Underrated Anime

Though D.Gray-Man hasn’t achieved the mainstream success of other shonen anime, it holds a special place in the hearts of those who appreciate a darker, more emotionally intense narrative. The series combines supernatural elements with rich, atmospheric storytelling that delves into themes of sacrifice, redemption, and inner conflict. Protagonist Allen Walker’s journey is a deeply personal one, as he struggles with his own inner demons while battling the monstrous Akuma, making his character arc particularly gripping.

The series excels at world-building, with an intricate lore that adds depth to the exorcist organization and the antagonistic Millennium Earl. Supporting characters like Lavi, Kanda, and Lenalee bring additional layers of complexity to the narrative, each with their own emotional struggles and growth. The dark, gothic atmosphere of D.Gray-Man complements its heavy themes, making it a must-watch for fans of supernatural drama. Its blend of action, emotional depth, and mystery makes it an underrated masterpiece in the genre.

Hitman Reborn!

Katekyō Hitman Reborn!

Synopsis
Hitman Reborn tells the story of Tsunayoshi Sawada, a reluctant middle schooler who is suddenly tasked with becoming the next boss of a powerful mafia family. With the help of his eccentric tutor, Reborn, Tsuna must grow into his role while dealing with supernatural battles and school life.
Release Date: October 2006 – September 2010
Length: 203 Episodes

What Makes This an Underrated Anime

Hitman Reborn is a series that starts deceptively simple, using lighthearted comedy in the first 20 episodes to set the stage for what ultimately becomes an intense, action-packed shonen anime. The early episodes feature Tsuna, a timid and reluctant middle schooler, navigating his daily life with the help of his eccentric “tutor,” Reborn. As the show progresses, however, it shifts gears into a gripping mafia storyline, with Tsuna stepping into his role as the Vongola family’s next boss.

The character development in Hitman Reborn is one of its greatest strengths, particularly the growth of Tsuna from a clumsy boy into a confident leader. The series evolves from its comedic beginnings into a complex narrative filled with high-stakes battles, intricate mafia politics, and intense character arcs. The later arcs, especially the battles between the Vongola and various rival mafia families, keep the audience on the edge of their seats with dynamic action and plot twists. For fans looking for a long-running anime that successfully blends humor with serious, high-stakes storytelling, Hitman Reborn is a highly underrated anime worth exploring. It’s unfortunate the series didn’t finish adapting the remainder of the manga, but we can still hold hope.

Yu Yu Hakusho

Yu Yu Hakusho

Synopsis: Yu Yu Hakusho follows Yusuke Urameshi, a teenage delinquent who becomes a spirit detective after an unexpected accident grants him new supernatural abilities. Alongside his team, Yusuke faces numerous enemies in spirit world.
Release Date: October 1992 – January 1995
Length: 112 Episodes

What Makes This an Underrated Anime

It’s debatable whether Yu Yu Hakusho is underrated, but it’s undeniable that it did not reach the mainstream popularity of titles like Dragon Ball Z, largely due to competition from iconic long-running anime at the time. However, among anime enthusiasts and critics, it’s often praised for its character depth, well-structured arcs, and solid storytelling. The story follows Yusuke Urameshi, a delinquent who is given a second chance at life as a spirit detective. What makes Yu Yu Hakusho timeless is its exceptional character development, thrilling tournament arcs, and well-paced storytelling that never feels rushed or dragged out.

Yusuke’s journey from a troubled youth to a hero resonates with viewers, while his interactions with allies like Kuwabara, Hiei, and Kurama create a dynamic and emotionally engaging narrative. The anime strikes a perfect balance between heart-pounding fight scenes and moments of emotional reflection. The Dark Tournament arc, in particular, is widely regarded as one of the best arcs in shonen history, offering unforgettable battles and character moments. Even decades after its release, Yu Yu Hakusho continues to captivate new generations of anime fans, proving that its blend of action, emotion, and supernatural intrigue is truly timeless.

Hunter x Hunter (2011)

Hunter x Hunter

Synopsis: The story revolves around Gon Freecss, a young boy on a quest to become a Hunter and find his father. Along the way, Gon meets friends and foes, learning the true meaning of strength and friendship in a world filled with powerful Hunters.
Release Date: October 2011 – September 2014
Length: 148 Episodes + Movies

What Makes This an Underrated Anime

While Hunter x Hunter is widely recognized and appreciated, its incomplete nature and thematic complexity may have prevented it from achieving the same level of mainstream success as some of its contemporaries. For dedicated fans of anime, it’s anything but underrated, but for casual viewers or those unfamiliar with anime, it might not have the recognition it truly deserves.

The complexity of its characters, particularly the dynamic between Gon and Killua, provides emotional depth that elevates it beyond simple action sequences. The Chimera Ant arc, in particular, showcases some of the most nuanced storytelling in anime, exploring the blurred lines between good and evil. The series doesn’t shy away from tragedy and loss, making it a unique emotional rollercoaster for its viewers. However, its incomplete status, with the anime ending without resolving the story due to the manga’s hiatus, may limit its broader appeal. Nevertheless, with the manga resuming in October 2024, those who dive in will find one of anime’s richest and most rewarding experiences.

Saint Seiya

Saint Seiya

Synopsis: Set in a mythological world, Saint Seiya follows five young warriors known as Saints who fight to protect the reincarnation of the goddess Athena from the forces of evil.
Release Date: October 1986 – August 2008
Length: 145 Episodes

What Makes This an Underrated Anime

Despite being a trailblazer in the 1980s and gaining a massive following in Europe and Latin America, Saint Seiya remains somewhat underrated in North America. Known for its epic battles, mythological influences, and deep sense of camaraderie, Saint Seiya delivers a quintessential shonen experience, full of heroic sacrifices and emotional growth. The plot follows five warriors known as “Saints” who don mystical armor powered by the constellations as they fight to protect the goddess Athena.

Though it shares many shonen tropes that became more popular in series like Dragon Ball Z, Saint Seiya never quite reached the same level of mainstream success outside its dedicated fanbase. One possible reason for its relatively lower profile in the U.S. could be the lack of consistent dubbing or localization during its initial run. However, its impact on the genre cannot be overstated. The show’s strong mythological elements and breathtaking fights set the stage for future anime series that combined action with deeper, more symbolic storytelling. It remains a must-watch for those who enjoy epic, large-scale battles with characters who are willing to sacrifice everything for their cause.

Rurouni Kenshin

Rurouni Kenshin

Synopsis: Set during the Meiji era, Rurouni Kenshin follows Kenshin Himura, a wandering swordsman with a dark past. Now striving to atone for his violent history, Kenshin vows to protect the innocent without ever killing again.
Release Date: January 1996 – September 2012 (Remake 2023)
Length: 95 Episodes + Movies

What Makes This an Underrated Anime

Though Rurouni Kenshin enjoyed considerable success when it aired, it’s still overlooked when compared to other long-running anime of its time, like Naruto or One Piece. Set during the Meiji era of Japan, Rurouni Kenshin combines historical fiction with action, drama, and romance. Its protagonist, Kenshin Himura, is a former assassin who has vowed never to kill again, offering a unique twist on the typical action hero. His internal struggle with his violent past and his desire for redemption gives the series an emotional depth that resonates with viewers.

The show masterfully blends intense sword-fighting scenes with moral dilemmas and moments of lighthearted humor, making it stand out in a sea of typical action-oriented anime. One of the reasons Rurouni Kenshin might be considered underrated is the somewhat rocky conclusion of its anime adaptation, which deviated from the manga and received mixed reviews from fans. However, with the reboot and live-action adaptations breathing new life into the series, now is the perfect time to revisit this classic, or experience it for the first time. Its richly detailed world and emotionally charged narrative make it one of the best long-running anime that deserves more recognition.

Kingdom

Kingdom

Synopsis: Set during China’s Warring States period, Kingdom follows Xin, an orphaned war boy who dreams of becoming the greatest general. He embarks on a journey of warfare, strategy, and alliances, helping to unite China under a single banner.
Release Date: June 2012 – September 2022
Length: 142 Episodes

What Makes This an Underrated Anime

Kingdom may be one of the best-kept secrets in the anime world, particularly for fans of historical dramas and military strategies. Set during China’s Warring States period, the series follows Xin, a war orphan who dreams of becoming the greatest general under the heavens. What sets Kingdom apart is its expansive scope—huge battle sequences, intricate political schemes, and a cast of characters whose personal ambitions intertwine with the fate of entire nations. The sheer scale of the conflict is breathtaking, as the series balances grand military tactics with intimate, character-driven moments.

Despite its high stakes and grand narrative, Kingdom initially flew under the radar, perhaps due to its early CGI animation, which received criticism for being subpar. However, the storytelling, character development, and action are so gripping that these technical flaws are soon forgotten. The anime improves significantly in quality as the series progresses, rewarding dedicated viewers with some of the most epic battles in anime history. As Kingdom continues to gain momentum with new seasons, it’s the perfect time to jump into this long-running series and experience one of the most underrated gems in anime. For fans of military dramas and historical epics, Kingdom delivers in spades.

Slam Dunk

Slam Dunk

Synopsis: Slam Dunk is a sports anime about Hanamichi Sakuragi, a delinquent with no prior interest in basketball, who joins his high school’s team to impress a girl. Despite his initial disinterest, he discovers a true passion for the sport.
Release Date: October 1993 – March 1996
Length: 101 Episodes + Movie

What Makes This an Underrated Anime

Slam Dunk is often hailed as one of the greatest sports anime of all time, and yet it remains surprisingly an underrated anime outside of Japan. The series tells the story of Hanamichi Sakuragi, a high school delinquent who reluctantly joins the basketball team in an attempt to impress a girl, only to discover his genuine passion for the sport. Over time, he grows not only as a basketball player but as a person, forming strong bonds with his teammates.

What sets Slam Dunk apart from other sports anime is its exceptional blend of comedy, character growth, and realistic basketball gameplay. The humor is sharp, and the show excels at capturing the intensity of high-stakes games, building tension that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. More than just a typical sports story, it highlights themes of perseverance, teamwork, and personal redemption. However, due to its release in the ’90s, it was overshadowed internationally by shonen titans like Dragon Ball Z. With a highly anticipated film released recently, now is the perfect time to revisit this classic.

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Monogatari Series

Monogatari Series

Synopsis: The Monogatari series centers around Koyomi Araragi, a high school student who encounters various supernatural beings and helps others affected by oddities, unraveling mysteries while exploring complex relationships and philosophical themes.
Release Date: July 2009 – June 2019
Length: 100 Episodes + Movies

What Makes This an Underrated Anime

The Monogatari Series stands out for its philosophical dialogue, non-linear storytelling, and surreal narrative that explores deep emotional and psychological issues. It is known for its abstract symbolism and complex conversations about life, identity, and morality, making it highly rewarding for viewers who appreciate thought-provoking anime. However, its unconventional structure and intricate themes make it less accessible to casual audiences, which contributes to its underrated anime status. There are several guides out there with instructions on the proper order to watch this anime.

What truly elevates this series is its character-driven storytelling. Each arc delves deeply into the characters’ psyches, using supernatural elements to reflect personal struggles. For viewers who can appreciate its demands for full attention, the Monogatari Series offers a richly layered, unforgettable experience that sets it apart from typical anime.

Dragon Quest – Adventure of Dai (2020)

Dragon Quest: Dai no Daibouken (2020)

Synopsis: Based on the classic RPG, Dragon Quest: The Adventure of Dai follows a young hero named Dai as he embarks on a quest to defeat the Dark Lord and bring peace to the world, all while discovering his own hidden powers.
Release Date: October 2020 – October 2022
Length: 100 Episodes

What Makes This an Underrated Anime

Dragon Quest: Dai no Daibouken (2020) brings modern animation to a classic story of heroism, adventure, and personal growth, blending traditional shonen elements with stunning visuals. Despite being based on the beloved Dragon Quest franchise, the series remains overshadowed by more popular contemporary shonen anime. However, its action-packed battles and well-executed storyline provide a perfect blend of nostalgia and excitement, making it a hidden gem. Fans of old-school anime like Dragon Ball Z and Yu Yu Hakusho will find comfort in the series’ familiar art style, storytelling, and the nostalgic feeling of classic shonen adventures.

What makes this anime particularly special is its successful balance between old-school themes and modernized animation. The series excels at world-building, crafting an immersive fantasy world filled with magic, monsters, and epic quests. Dai no Daibouken’s retro feel evokes memories of older shonen anime while introducing a new generation to the charm of traditional adventure storytelling. For fans of classic anime art and epic fantasy narratives, this show offers both a refreshing update and a nostalgic journey back to the golden era of shonen anime.

Conclusion

Long-format anime offers a unique opportunity for fans to truly get lost in a story. Whether you’re interested in supernatural mysteries, historical action, or epic fantasy battles, these underrated anime with over 100 episodes are sure to provide endless hours of entertainment. Don’t miss out on these hidden anime gems, and make sure to explore the top anime streaming sites and best VPNs to access all your favorite shows. If you want something under 100 episodes but still long enough to invest some time into, then check out these 10 underrated anime with over 50 episodes.