The 25 Best Anime Made By Studio Bones, Ranked
Photo: Mob Psycho 100 / Bones

The 25 Best Anime Made By Studio Bones, Ranked

Anna Lindwasser
Updated April 1, 2024 81.2K views 25 items
Ranked By
23.6K votes
6.3K voters
Voting Rules

Vote up the greatest anime by Bones.

Latest additions: Carole & Tuesday, Metallic Rouge, Josee, the Tiger and the Fish
Most divisive: Metallic Rouge
Over 6.3K Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of The 25 Best Anime Made By Studio Bones, Ranked

If you're into anime, you've probably heard of Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood, My Hero Academia, and Ouran High School Host Club. What you may not know is what these anime have in common: they're produced by the same animation studio. These are just a few examples of the awesome anime created by Studio Bones. Founded by Sunrise staff members Masahiko Minami, Hiroshi Osaka and Toshihiro Kawamoto, Studio Bones quickly took the anime industry by storm after their inception in 1998. Studio Bones has created over 50 movies and shows, some of which rank amongst the best anime of all time.

You may be surprised to find that Studio Bones is behind a number of your more obscure favorite shows, such as Darker Than Black or Snow White with the Red Hair. What makes the shows by this particular studio so great? Unforgettable character designs, fantastic anime worlds, solid storyboarding and pacing, amazing art and scenery, and consistent top-tier quality animation that you won't see anywhere else, that's what! Check out the coolest Studio Bones anime below and vote up your favorite ones. 

No matter which anime you're a fan of, make sure you check out the best My Hero Academia quotes or the best Soul Eater quotes.

  • 1
    2,404 votes

    Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood

    Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood
    Photo: Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood / Bones

    In a world where alchemy is an incredible power, young brothers Edward and Alphonse Elric seek the legendary Philosopher's Stone after failing to resurrect their mother through human transmutation. This perilous journey leads them to uncover sinister conspiracies within their government involving the lost city of Xerxes and corrupted Homunculi manipulated by the mysterious Father. 

    Aided by loyal friends and powerful allies, the brothers struggle to save their nation while unraveling the truth behind the Philosopher's Stone and confronting the god-like Father.

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  • 2
    1,237 votes

    Bungo Stray Dogs

    Bungo Stray Dogs
    Photo: Bungo Stray Dogs / Bones

    In the supernatural-filled city of Yokohama, orphan Atsushi Nakajima joins the eccentric Armed Detective Agency comprising literary figures with special powers called Abilities. Atsushi possesses the ability to transform into a white tiger and tackles criminal cases and conspiracies involving the ominous Port Mafia, under the guidance of the mysterious Osamu Dazai. 

    Together with his tight-knit teammates, Atsushi confronts deadly adversaries, uncovers hidden truths, and grapples with controlling his newfound power, while maintaining peace in the city plagued by crime and the sinister intentions of a powerful international organization.

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  • 3
    1,606 votes

    Mob Psycho 100

    Mob Psycho 100
    Photo: Mob Psycho 100 / Bones

    Adolescent psychic Shigeo "Mob" Kageyama aims to lead an ordinary life while suppressing his extraordinary ESP powers, despite being mentored by the dubious con artist and self-proclaimed psychic, Reigen Arataka. Mob's suppressed emotions, however, risk manifesting with disastrous consequences when they reach their peak. 

    Mob must battle various malevolent spirits and rival psychic organizations, all while learning to accept and control his powers, with the support of Reigen, his younger brother Ritsu, and his friends from school.

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  • 4
    2,448 votes

    My Hero Academia

    My Hero Academia
    Photo: My Hero Academia / Bones

    In a world where most people have superpowers called Quirks, young Izuku Midoriya dreams of becoming a hero despite being born Quirkless. After inheriting the power of the world's greatest hero All Might, Izuku enrolls in the prestigious U.A. Academy to train to become a professional hero. 

    Now known as Deku, he strives to control his newfound abilities and live up to All Might's legacy, while navigating intense rivalries, encounters with powerful villains, and the sinister League of Villains' plot to destroy hero society.

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  • 5
    1,602 votes

    Noragami

    Noragami
    Photo: Noragami / Bones

    After a life-threatening accident, high school student Hiyori Iki meets Yato, an enigmatic minor god without a shrine who takes on odd jobs. Together with Yato's Regalia weapon-partner Yukine, they confront supernatural troubles plaguing the human world caused by evil spirits known as Phantoms. While aiding Yato's quest to regain his divine standing, Hiyori and her new companions unravel the secrets of Yato's mysterious past, encountering dangerous deities like the war god Bishamon and poverty goddess Kofuku along the way. 

    With the spiritual and human realms under threat, Hiyori supports Yato's aspirations to gain fame and confront vengeful gods, while their friendship is tested against enemies who disrupt the balance between worlds.

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  • 6
    1,379 votes

    Soul Eater

    Soul Eater
    Photo: Soul Eater / Bones

    In the supernatural Death City, young meister Maka Albarn and her sentient scythe partner Soul Eater Evans attend the Death Weapon Meister Academy. Tasked with hunting evil souls to protect the world from madness and prevent the resurrection of an ancient demon, they form alliances with fellow eccentric students and their shapeshifting weapon partners. 

    Under the ominous threat of the manipulative witch Medusa, Maka and Soul embark on missions to gather corrupted souls and gain power, while also confronting the challenges of adolescence. Their goals merge into a collective struggle to maintain balance in the world by preventing the demon Kishin from resurfacing, through the consumption of wicked souls.

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  • 7
    1,101 votes

    Ouran High School Host Club

    Ouran High School Host Club
    Photo: Ouran High School Host Club / Bones

    Scholarship student Haruhi Fujioka accidentally breaks an expensive vase and ends up joining the Ouran High School Host Club - a group of elite but quirky male students entertaining female students -  to repay her debt. By concealing her gender due to her masculine appearance, Haruhi navigates the luxurious world of the elite while dealing with the unique personalities and escapades of the host club members, forming strong bonds and life lessons with them as they come to terms with their personal struggles.

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  • 8
    647 votes

    Darker Than Black

    Darker Than Black
    Photo: Darker Than Black / Bones

    In a world altered by a cosmic incident and the appearance of mysterious phenomena called "Heaven's Gate" and "Hell's Gate," paranormal beings known as Contractors, possessing supernatural abilities at a price, emerge. The shadowy organization Syndicate employs the enigmatic Contractor Hei, who possesses mastery over electricity and his sentient doll companion Yin, to retrieve a group of rogue Contractors who have disappeared while seeking the truth behind the gates and their relationship to Hei's sister. 

    As events unfold, Hei navigates a complex web of allies, including the former detective Huang and information broker Mao, and enemy organizations, unraveling secrets about the mysterious Gates, the Syndicate's true motivations, and his own role as the feared "Black Reaper," ultimately leading to a fateful confrontation that changes everything.

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  • 9
    606 votes

    Blood Blockade Battlefront

    Blood Blockade Battlefront
    Photo: Blood Blockade Battlefront / Bones

    In the fog-shrouded metropolis of Hellsalem's Lot, where humans and otherworldly creatures coexist, the secret crime-fighting organization Libra upholds peace and order. After a gateway between Earth and the Beyond opens in New York, new recruit Leonardo Watch, a young photographer endowed with the powerful "All-Seeing Eyes of the Gods," joins Libra's members possessing diverse supernatural abilities. 

    Together, they tackle various threats to the city, confronting nefarious criminals, powerful monsters, and hidden conspiracies. With the support of his new allies, Leonardo struggles to cure his sister's mysterious ailment, for which he took on his ocular powers, while also grappling with the dark forces that threaten the very fabric of their world.

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  • 10
    727 votes

    Snow White with the Red Hair

    Snow White with the Red Hair
    Photo: Snow White with the Red Hair / Bones

    Shirayuki, a herbalist with striking red hair, flees her homeland to elude a prince's advances and encounters Zen, a neighboring prince to whom she gradually grows close. As they form a strong bond, the duo tackles various challenges while forging relationships with allies in a quest to safeguard the kingdom. 

    As Shirayuki and Zen navigate obstacles like political intrigue, secret plots, and their individual growth, they are surrounded and supported by a diverse cast of friends, including staunch allies Obi and Mitsuhide.

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  • 11
    555 votes

    Eureka Seven

    Eureka Seven
    Photo: Eureka Seven AO / Bones

    Young mechanic Renton Thurston joins the renegade group Gekkostate, led by the enigmatic Holland Novak, aboard their airborne ship, the Nirvash, as they battle the militaristic United Federation in a post-apocalyptic world. Together with the group and the mysterious humanoid coral Eureka, with whom he forms a powerful bond, Renton fights for freedom and harmony between humans and the sentient Scub Coral. 

    Amidst unfolding secrets and dangerous confrontations, Renton seeks to uncover the truth about his father's legacy, the nature of the Scub Coral, and the origin of the powerful mechas called LFOs.

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  • 12
    481 votes

    Wolf's Rain

    Wolf's Rain
    Photo: Wolf's Rain / Bones

    In a dying world, a pack of wolves, led by Kiba, disguises themselves as humans to search for the fabled paradise called Rakuen, guided by the prophecy of a mysterious girl named Cheza. Their journey pits them against vicious humans, rival wolf packs, and enigmatic nobles, all vying for control and influence. 

    Embodying courage, strength, and survival instincts, the wolves face near-impossible odds as they uncover the truth about Rakuen and their connection to the destinies of both humankind and the world itself.

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  • 13
    376 votes

    No. 6

    No. 6
    Photo: No. 6 / Bones

    In the utopian city No. 6, Shion and Nezumi, two boys from different backgrounds, join forces to uncover the government's dark secrets. Discovering a deadly parasitic wasp affecting the populace, they seek to unravel the mystery and expose the government's sinister manipulations. Shion and Nezumi confront the authorities and face the consequences of their newfound knowledge, trying to save both their lives and the lives of those they care for.

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  • 14
    476 votes

    Space Dandy

    Space Dandy
    Photo: Space Dandy / Bones

    Space-faring bounty hunter Dandy and his quirky crew, including the robot QT and the alien Meow, traverse the galaxy capturing elusive and unclassified creatures. As they embark on thrilling adventures, they encounter bizarre worlds, strange creatures, and intergalactic conspiracies. While Dandy navigates his eccentric lifestyle, he unexpectedly influences the fabric of the universe itself and the grand schemes of the powerful Gogol Empire.

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  • 15
    40 votes

    The Case Study of Vanitas

    The Case Study of Vanitas
    Photo: The Case Study of Vanitas / Bones

    Set in 19th century Paris, The Case Study of Vanitas centers around two people and their journey with the cursed “Book of Vanitas.” Rumored to cause the downfall of all vampires of the crimson moon, Noé Archiviste is determined to find the grimoire for himself. After a vampire attack, he's saved by an eccentric doctor named Vanitas. 

    But Vanitas isn't the legendary vampire who the book is titled after - he's a mere human who previously worked under the original Vanitas before adopting his name and taking possession of the book. Together, the two of them venture off to restore sanity to other vampires in this action-filled mystery series.

     

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  • 16
    263 votes

    Gosick

    Gosick
    Photo: Gosick / Bones

    Japanese exchange student Kazuya Kujo and the brilliant, reclusive Victorique de Blois, daughter of an influential European noble, solve complex mysteries throughout the post-WWI European nation of Saubure. Kazuya and Victorique's partnership develops as they unravel enigmatic cases, facing political and supernatural adversaries. 

    The pair confronts the sinister motives of individuals while discovering the truth about Victorique's heritage and her connection to the towering library where they first met.

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  • 17
    234 votes

    Blast of Tempest

    Blast of Tempest
    Photo: Blast of Tempest / Bones

    High school students Mahiro Fuwa and Yoshino Takigawa set out to solve the mysterious death of Mahiro's sister Aika, aided by a powerful sorceress Hakaze Kusaribe. As they delve into the enigmatic Tree of Genesis and Tree of Exodus, they become entangled in a magical battle for the fate of civilization. Facing powerful enemies and shocking revelations, the trio must navigate their own personal losses and growth while seeking the truth behind Aika's death.

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  • 18
    29 votes

    SK8 the Infinity

    SK8 the Infinity
    Photo: SK8 the Infinity / Bones

    The subgenre of sports anime is highly beloved amongst anime fans, and Bones is behind one of the most unique series out there. SK8 the Infinity is a show centered around Langa, Reki, and the friendship they forge from their love of skateboarding. When Langa moves to Japan, he quickly meets and befriends Reki, who introduces him to the underground world of skateboarding.

    In developing their skills, they also develop their friendship while interacting with a cast of eccentric characters, including a young politician who doubles as a skater antagonist. Although the two of them face their own difficulties - as well as ones that test them as best friends - they manage to come out of it stronger. 

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  • 19
    18 votes

    Josee, the Tiger and the Fish

    Josee, the Tiger and the Fish
    Photo: Josee, the Tiger and the Fish / Bones

    On his way home from one of his multiple jobs, Tsuneo Suzukawa spots a woman named Josee speeding down a hill in an out-of-control wheelchair. After their surprise meeting, Tsuneo takes up a part-time job as Josee's caretaker, helping her in places where accommodation is lacking. 

    During their time together, the two learn more about one another and develop a heart-warming friendship. And as their story continues, viewers get to see that their connection spans feelings that are more romantic too.

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  • 20
    18 votes

    Metallic Rouge

    Metallic Rouge
    Photo: Metallic Rouge / Bones

    Created by Bones for their 25th anniversary, Metallic Rouge is an anime original mecha series centering on Rouge and her partner, Naomi. Rouge is an android known as a “Nean” who lives peacefully on Mars, until an android rebellion attempts to take on the planet's human government. 

    Rouge and Naomi are tasked with taking out the Immortal Nine - nine highly advanced Neans who are leading the rebellion that threatens the peace they've come to know. Together it's up to them to protect the harmony between android and humanity while looking out for each other too.

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  • 21
    14 votes

    Carole & Tuesday

    Carole & Tuesday
    Photo: Carole & Tuesday / Bones

    In a world where humans have migrated to life on Mars, Carole makes a living by working a part-time job during the day and performing with her keyboard at night. Meanwhile, Tuesday comes from a wealthy family, but leaves it all behind to pursue her goal of becoming an acoustic guitarist. 

    Following a chance meeting, the two quickly notice their similar affinity for music and decide to take the industry head on. With AI musicians dominating the charts, they definitely have their work cut out for them - but the duo are determined to get to the top with their passion and love for music.

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  • 22
    201 votes

    Chaika: The Coffin Princess

    Chaika: The Coffin Princess
    Photo: Chaika: The Coffin Princess / Bones

    Retired soldier Toru Acura and his sister Akari join forces with the mysterious white-haired girl, Chaika Trabant, as they quest to collect her father's scattered remains, Emperor Gaz. As they acquire the relics, their opponents reveal their intention to use Gaz's immortal power to achieve world domination. The trio, along with their growing team of allies, struggle against powerful adversaries as they unearth secrets about Gaz's true intentions, Chaika's origins, and her connection to the world's fate.

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  • 23
    169 votes

    RahXephon

    RahXephon
    Photo: RahXephon / Bones

    In 2015, after an alien race called the Mu invades Earth, teenage musician Ayato Kamina discovers the powerful mecha called RahXephon, which holds the key to defeating the Mu and restoring peace. Ayato joins the human resistance organization TERRA and pilots the RahXephon to battle the Mu while searching for the truth about his origins. Along his journey, Ayato faces great challenges, uncovers hidden truths, and learns about his own destiny and that of the world.

  • 24
    157 votes

    Angelic Layer

    Angelic Layer
    Photo: Angelic Layer / Bones

    Junior high school student Misaki Suzuhara discovers a popular virtual reality game called Angelic Layer, where players fight highly customizable dolls called Angels, gaining her newfound team of friends. Under the guidance of her eccentric mentor Icchan, Misaki trains her Angel, Hikaru, to become stronger and climb the ranks, facing skilled opponents. As Misaki journeys through the Angelic Layer tournament, she learns valuable lessons about friendship, determination, and her surprising connection to the game's true creator.

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  • 25
    156 votes

    Heroman

    Heroman
    Photo: Heroman / Bones

    Joey is a shy student who, despite being bullied constantly, keeps a positive attitude. His goal of owning a toy robot named Heybo is what keeps him going amongst his struggles - and thankfully, he stumbles upon a discarded Heybo to take for himself. After taking it home and repairing the toy, he names it Heroman, happy to have one of his own… until Heroman is struck by lightening and suddenly comes to life.

    That same night, an alien invasion floods his city, and its Heroman and Joey who comes to the rescue. What was once a toy has now become a boy's best bet for saving his community and stopping the aliens from causing total destruction. 

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