20 Best Military Anime Recommendations

Anime has many genres, allowing it to explore any theme, topic, or what you have. One of those genres is military anime, also referred as army anime or war anime.

Military anime, also known as war anime, is a genre of anime that focuses on the military and warfare. These anime often explore strategies, tactics, and the human cost of war.

They can also showcase different aspects of military life, such as training, camaraderie, and the struggle to survive on the battlefield.

Many military anime are based on real-world conflicts, such as World War II or the Vietnam War, while others are set in fictional worlds with their unique conflicts.

These military anime will transport you to a world of intense battles and strategic maneuvers, where skilled soldiers and powerful weapons are the norms.

With heart-pumping action and nail-biting suspense, these anime will have you on the edge of your seat as you witness the ultimate showdown between good and evil.

They’re not only exciting to watch, but they also give a deeper understanding of the complexities and sacrifices of war.

Think of it like a combination of action, drama, and a bit of history all rolled into one.

It’s like getting a front-row seat to the action and seeing everything that goes on behind the scenes in the military.

It’s exciting, thrilling, and not for the faint of heart!

So, anime fans, if you’re a fan of action, strategy, and an adrenaline rush, look no further than our best military anime list.

20. The Legend Of The Galactic Heroes

• Number of Episodes: 110
• Number of Seasons: 1 + 4 Movies
• Genres: Action, Adventure, Fantasy, Isekai, Military
• MAL Ratings: 7.69
• Where to Watch: Netflix, HIDIVE

The Legend of the Galactic Heroes depicts an ongoing conflict between the galactic empire and the free planets’ alliance in the galaxy.

Both sides have an abundance of robots and soldiers, making it seem like a never-ending conflict.

However, the tide begins to turn when new captains are appointed on both sides.

Though unaware of each other, their intelligence and strategic thinking bring them to a common understanding.

The question remains: who will emerge as the strongest leader?

This classic anime masterfully portrays the war setting with a captivating story and diverse characters.

The animation and sound quality may not appeal to all audiences, particularly given its age.

However, the plot, specifically the rivalry between Yang Wenli and Reinhard von Lohengramm, is a standout feature and worth watching.

19. Break Blade (Broken Blade)

• Number of Episodes: 12
• Number of Seasons: 1 + 6 Movies + 2 Specials
• Genres: Action, Adventure, Fantasy, Mecha
• MAL Ratings: 7.25
• Where to Watch: Crunchyroll

Despite his un-sorcerer status, Rygart maintains close relationships with the people of Krisna and Athens.

This includes Hodr and Sigyn, the future king and queen of the Athens Commonwealth, and Zess, the youngest brother of the Secretary of War.

When a war breaks out between the two nations, Rygart joins the fight to unite them instead of divide them.

Using his unique abilities as an un-sorcerer, he pilots an ancient Golem and uses it to bring peace before any blood is shed.

The series can be enjoyed as either a 12-episode show or six movies, with the same story being told in both formats.

While it may not be the best mecha anime out there, it does a great job of delivering on the traditional mecha formula, and its story centers around war, making it a fitting addition to the genre. 

18. Xam’d: Lost Memories

• Type: ONA
• Number of Episodes: 26
• Number of Seasons: 1
• Genres: Action, Adventure, Sci-Fi, Military
• MAL Ratings: 7.65
• Where to Watch: N/A

Akiyuki Takehara, a resident of the small island of Sentan Island, lives with his mother.

Set on the Sentan Islands, the story follows a war between the Northern Government and the Southern Continent Free Zone.

One day, while spending time with his friends Haru Nishimura and Furuichi Teraoka, he is caught in an explosion that involves a mysterious girl with white hair named Nazuna.

This event leads to a mysterious light entering Akiyuki’s arm and a blue gem appearing.

Nazuna guides him through his transformation into a creature known as Xam’d and gives him a choice: to join her and live or stay and die.

This show is not for the faint of heart regarding storytelling.

It delves deep into its world, requiring full attention to fully grasp the story.

Along with its thought-provoking plot, the show offers thrilling fight scenes for those who enjoy the action.

17. Mobile Suit Gundam SEED

• Number of Episodes: 100
• Number of Seasons: 2
• Genres: Action, Award Winning, Drama, Romance, Sci-Fi, Mecha, Military, Space
• MAL Ratings: 7.75
• Where to Watch: Crunchyroll, Funimation

In a future where humanity has survived until the 24th century and has transitioned away from fossil fuels to rely heavily on sustainable solar energy, conflicts, and wars continue to ravage the world.

Amid this, “Celestial Being” is an organization that aims to bring world peace and end wars.

The anime features impressive animation and battle sequences involving giant robots called Gundams.

Despite flat character development, the story’s twists and turns make it an interesting watch.

This anime series is a must-watch for fans of the Mecha genre, as it promises to be an unforgettable experience.

Filled with intense action and political intrigue, it is truly one of the best examples of the genre. Don’t miss out on this incredible show. 

16. Kantai Collection: KanColle

• Number of Episodes: 12
• Number of Seasons: 1
• Genres: Action, Sci-Fi, Slice of Life, Military, School
• MAL Ratings: 6.83
• Where to Watch: Crunchyroll

Kantai Collection is an anime that showcases the unique concept of personifying World War II Japanese ships as cute girls.

These “boat girls” are based on the real-life models of the ships, and their characteristics reflect the size and capabilities of the vessel they represent.

The characters’ designs are based on the actual ships, with their size and food consumption reflecting that of the original vessels.

The show features both slice-of-life and comedic elements and exciting battles.

Overall, Kantai Collection offers a unique and creative twist on the traditional war anime using “boat girls.”

Although it has military themes, it is not a heavy or serious show, making it a great choice for those looking for a more lighthearted military anime.

If you want to learn about World War II and how war breaks, this is the perfect pick.

KanColle as a war series makes sense, as they are factually right about most of the stuff in the anime.

15. The Ambition Of Oda Nobuna

• Number of Episodes: 12
• Number of Seasons: 4 + 1 Special
• Genres: Action, Comedy, Romance, Harem
• MAL Ratings: 7.39
• Where to Watch: Crunchyroll

Here’s a change of pace—a story based on the Sengoku Period.

The Ambition of Oda Nobuna is an anime that takes place in a comedic version of the Sengoku period in Japan, featuring female versions of historical figures as the main characters.

17-year-old Sagara Yoshiharu is transported back in time to the Sengoku period.

Amidst the iconic historical figures of the era, Yoshiharu finds himself surrounded by a diverse cast of strong and captivating female characters.

Immerse yourself in a world where historical people take on anime form and enjoy the captivating art style and audio that enhances the overall viewing experience.

The story is well-told and combines elements of action, comedy, and history to keep the audience engaged.

It stands out as unique among military and fantasy anime. 

14. Full Metal Panic

• Number of Episodes: 61
• Number of Seasons: 4 + 2 Movies + 3 Specials
• Genres: Action, Comedy, Sci-Fi, Mecha, Military
• MAL Ratings: 7.61
• Where to Watch: Funimation, Crunchyroll, Netflix

The story revolves around a 17-year-old member of the military group Mithril.

Sousuke Sagara is assigned to safeguard a high school student named Kaname Chidori.

Kaname Chidori, a high school student, is known as a “Whispered” because she possesses valuable knowledge and powerful abilities to create advanced machinery.

Along with his teammates Kurz Weber and Melissa Mao, Sousuke transfers to Kaname’s school in Japan to keep a close watch on her.

As he spends more time with her, Sousuke becomes curious about Kaname’s special abilities and why she is being targeted.

Although Full Metal Panic begins slowly, it is worth sticking with because it eventually improves in quality, especially in season 2.

The first season is meh, but that doesn’t stop this from becoming an amazing anime.

13. God Eater

• Number of Episodes: 13
• Number of Seasons: 1 + 3 ONAs + 2 Specials
• Genres: Action, Fantasy, Sci-Fi, Military
• MAL Ratings: 7.21
• Where to Watch: Funimation, Crunchyroll, Netflix

In 2071, humanity is on the brink of extinction due to the emergence of creatures known as Aragami.

These monsters are invulnerable to traditional weapons, prompting the creation of a special organization called Fenrir.

Their mission is to combat the Aragami and save humanity.

The members of Fenrir are known as God Eaters, humans who have been empowered with special abilities through Oracle cells.

They are the only ones capable of defeating the Aragami.

The newest member of Fenrir and their secret weapon is a 15-year-old named Lenka Utsugi, who is determined to eradicate the Aragami once and for all.

God Eater is a thrilling anime series combining violence, fantasy, and military action.

While the initial plot of the main character seeking revenge against monsters may be cliche, the story quickly evolves into an engaging tale with dynamic characters.

For some viewers, God Eater may come off as a rip-off of Attack on Titan, but that’s not the case.

If you haven’t seen Attack on Titan, you may find God Eater interesting, though it is not as good as AOT.

12. Gunslinger Girl

• Number of Episodes: 26
• Number of Seasons: 2 + 1 OVA
• Genres: Action, Drama, Sci-Fi, Military, Psychological
• MAL Ratings: 7.39
• Where to Watch: Funimation, Crunchyroll

The Social Welfare Agency, located in the heart of Italy, offers a second chance at life for young, ill, and disabled girls through advanced cybernetic enhancements.

However, the Agency also brainwashes these girls and trains them to become assassins for the corrupt side of the government.

These girls, known as “handlers,” are forced to kill without question and are pushed to their limits, resulting in shortened life spans.

Despite being transformed into ruthless weapons, these girls are still children who long for love and happiness.

Gunslinger Girl is a heartbreaking, dark, and immoral military anime that explores the complex emotions and inner turmoil of a group of orphan girls trained as assassins by the government.

The show delves into themes of morality and humanity as the characters grapple with their actions.

The animation is visually pleasing, and the soundtrack effectively sets the tone for the thought-provoking plot.

This anime is not your typical military story and will leave you questioning the nature of morality and humanity. 

11. Darling in the Franxx

• Number of Episodes: 24
• Number of Seasons: 1
• Genres: Action, Drama, Romance, Sci-Fi, Mecha
• MAL Ratings: 7.22
• Where to Watch: Netflix, Crunchyroll, Bilibili Global

In a post-apocalyptic world, a city is under attack by hordes of enemies.

A special unit of teenagers is sent out to defend the city to fight the enemy in advanced mechs.

The core cast of characters is diverse, with teens who have never been outside the city trying to navigate life while fighting for survival.

One of the most intriguing aspects of the show is the sensuality of the mechs.

Whether this is a metaphor or simply fanservice is unclear, but it adds an interesting layer to the story.

The show’s final arc is particularly mysterious and leaves many questions unanswered.

However, despite these unresolved plot points, the show is overall solid and well worth watching.

With solid storytelling and action-packed battles, this show is a must-watch for fans of the genre.

10. Sword Art Online Alternative: Gun Gale Online

• Number of Episodes: 12
• Number of Seasons: 1 + 1 Special
• Genres: Action
• MAL Ratings: 7.00
• Where to Watch: Netflix, Crunchyroll

Gungale Online is a military-focused alternative to the original Sword Art Online series, as the name suggests.

The main character, Llenn, is a young girl in the game but taller in real life.

Her motivations are distinct from those of Kirito and Asuna in the original series.

The protagonist, known as the “Pink Devil” in the virtual world, is a small girl who wears all-pink armor.

She is feared for her aggressive style of play, as she expertly takes down opponents with ease.

If you enjoy action, bullets, and guns, Gungale Online would be a great fit for you, especially if you liked the Gungale arc in the original Sword Art Online. 

09. Seraph of the End

• Number of Episodes: 24
• Number of Seasons: 2 + 1 OVA + 2 Specials
• Genres: Action, Drama, Supernatural, Military, Vampire
• MAL Ratings: 7.49
• Where to Watch: Netflix

In a world where a virus has killed off all humans over the age of thirteen, vampires have emerged from hiding and taken control.

They capture children as a source of blood, keeping them alive in exchange for protection.

The anime follows the story of 12-year-old orphan Yuichiro Hyakuya and his best friend, Mikaela, who is determined to break free from this life of servitude.

Along with other orphans, they make a daring escape attempt.

But the plan ends in tragedy, with all the children dying and Mikaela sacrificing himself so Yuichiro can survive.

Yuichiro manages to escape and is saved by the Japanese Imperial Demon Army.

At 16, he fights as a vengeful soldier, determined to kill every vampire.

However, what will happen when he discovers that one of the vampires he wants to kill is a dear friend he thought was dead?

The anime centers around the theme of destroying and eliminating demons.

08. 86 (Eighty Six)

• Number of Episodes: 23
• Number of Seasons: 2 + 1 Special
• Genres: Action, Drama, Sci-fi, Military, Mecha
• MAL Ratings: 8.27
• Where to Watch: Crunchyroll

86 is based on a light novel and does a great job following the source. Eighty Six is one of the best mecha anime produced after the year 2000.

This anime has revitalized the mecha genre.

Initially, Vladilena is unaware of her privileges, but she soon realizes this when she encounters a group living in an area called 86.

These individuals are subjected to severe racism and discrimination, and Vladilena becomes determined to help them.

This anime deals with important themes such as racism and discrimination, including light-hearted moments and intense action and strategy scenes.

07. Saga of Tanya The Evil

• Number of episodes: 12
• Number of seasons: 1 + 1 ONA + 2 Movies + 1 Special
• Genres: Mecha, Military, School, Super Power, Action, Drama, Sci-Fi
• MAL Ratings: 7.97
• Where to watch: Crunchyroll, Netflix

In Saga of Tanya The Evil, Tanya is an incredibly terrifying and efficient character.

After being reincarnated, she quickly rises through the ranks of the army and shows no mercy on the battlefield.

Despite her cruel and cynical attitude, she is a highly effective leader.

The battles in the series are intense and well-executed, and Tanya’s unique perspective as a Nietzsche-inspired protagonist adds an interesting and refreshing element to the story.

The blend of fantasy and military themes works well and makes for an engaging and thrilling series.

06. Code Geass

• Number of episodes: 50
• Number of seasons: 2 + OVA + Movies
• Genres: Mecha, Military, School, Super Power, Action, Drama, Sci-Fi
• MAL Ratings: 8.70
• Where to watch: Crunchyroll, Netflix

Code Geass is a unique story that centers around rebellion and the desire for revenge.

The story follows the protagonist Lelouch as he works to regain Japan’s former glory and seek vengeance against Britannia.

The Geass power system adds an extra layer of intrigue and drama to the plot.

The characters, particularly the protagonists, are well-developed and enjoyable to watch.

The ending is satisfying and satisfyingly concludes the story.

Code Geass is a thought-provoking anime that delves into complex moral and ethical issues, such as the nature of war and the concept of right and wrong.

It challenges viewers to question their beliefs and perspectives as they follow the characters’ journey.

The characters are expertly crafted, causing viewers to experience a range of emotions toward them, from love to hate.

Code Geass is a show that will leave a lasting impression on its audience.

05. Berserk

• Number of episodes: 115
• Number of seasons: 2
• Genres: Dark Fantasy, Action, Thriller
• MAL Ratings: 6.30
• Where to watch: Crunchyroll, Funimation, Netflix

Berserk, a manga known for its intense and brutal plotline, is a titan among readers.

The protagonist, Guts, is incredibly powerful, but his journey is filled with pain and suffering.

The story of this forsaken mercenary is considered by many to be one of the best in the genre.

With an unyielding determination and his powerful sword, Guts sets out on a quest for revenge against the one who destroyed his life.

While the 2016 anime release may not have been visually pleasing, the Golden Age Arc movies are highly recommended for their captivating storytelling.

The medieval era serves as the backdrop for this vintage-style artwork, adding to its charm.

The music, while unexpected, is noteworthy and adds to the overall experience.

The main character, Guts, is joined by Griffith, the attractive leader of a group of mercenaries known as the Band of Hawks.

Guts are then compelled to join the band of mercenaries. This work is sure to please fans of graphic and intense violence.

However, it should be noted that some viewers may find the gore and themes of trauma disturbing. 

04. Vinland Saga

• Number of Episodes: 48
• Number of Seasons: 2
• Status: Currently Airing
• Genres: Drama, Action, Adventure
• MAL Ratings: 8.73
• Where to Watch: Crunchyroll

Vinland Saga is an underrated gem in the anime community.

Despite its high-quality storytelling, character development, and animation, it has not gained as much recognition as it deserves.

Set in the Viking era, the series follows Thorfinn, a boy seeking revenge for the murder of his father.

As he strives to prove himself worthy of a duel with the killer, he discovers a new world that alters his perspective on reality.

The Vinland Saga is a must-watch for any anime fan, known for its impressive villain and captivating story.

03. Violet Evergarden

• Number of Episodes: 13
• Number of Seasons: 1 + 1 Special + 2 Movies + 1 ONA
• Genres: Drama, Fantasy
• MAL Ratings: 8.67
• Where to Watch: Netflix

Violet Evergarden is a story that explores the realities of war and delves into the psychological effects it has on individuals.

The main character, Violet, is a soldier who is physically and emotionally wounded in one of the war’s final battles.

As she struggles to find meaning in her life after being discharged from the army, she becomes an Auto Memory Doll, a person who helps others express and understand their emotions through writing letters.

Through this work, Violet also embarks on a journey of self-discovery as she grapples with her trauma and tries to find her place in the world.

Violet Evergarden is one of the best anime for the real-life depiction of war.

The voice acting is great. Overall, one of the best war anime focuses on war’s consequences.

02. Full Metal Alchemist: Brotherhood

• Number of episodes: 64 + 4 OVAs + 2 Movies
• Number of seasons: 1
• Genres: Steampunk, Adventure, Dark Fantasy, Action, Drama, Military
• MAL Ratings: 9.11
• Where to watch: Netflix, Crunchyroll

Full Metal Alchemist: Brotherhood is an excellent anime that offers a unique and skill-based battle experience through its use of alchemy.

Although it may not be the top show in the military/war genre, it is still a must-watch for anime fans.

Adding and expanding characters such as Yao Ling and Olivier Mira Armstrong adds depth to the already rich cast, making it even more enjoyable to watch.

Known by many as the perfect anime, this series is a work that any rational person wouldn’t want to miss.

We highly recommend checking out Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood if you haven’t already. 

01. Attack on Titan

• Number of episodes: 87
• Number of seasons: 7 (Ongoing)
• Genres: Action, Military, Mystery, Super Power, Drama, Fantasy, Shounen, Military
• MAL Ratings: 8.53
• Where to Watch: Netflix, Hotstar, Hulu

Attack on Titan is a well-known anime set in a post-apocalyptic world where giant human-like beings, known as Titans, threaten the survival of humankind.

The story focuses on a group of soldiers known as the Survey Corps who fight to save humanity from the Titans.

The show has a lot of elements that make it appealing to audiences, including a well-crafted post-apocalyptic world, a strong premise, memorable characters, and an iconic opening theme.

Attack on Titan show also features thrilling action sequences, especially when the characters use their maneuver gear, and the camera work in these scenes is particularly impressive.

The giant monsters are trying to wipe out the whole human race. The main characters try to survive.

Eren, our main character, is a child soldier, given he is just 16 years old.

AOT is one of the best war anime.

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Other War/Military anime that you might want to checkout!

• Gunbuster
• Sengoku Basara: Samurai KingsAltair: A Record of Battles)
• Aldnoah Zero