The Most Popular Magical Girl Anime, Ranked
Voting rules: Choose the magical girl anime you think is the most popular!
Updated on Apr 21, 2024 07:19
In the colorful world of magical girl anime, fans often debate which series casts the most enchanting spell. These debates can be spirited, as each fan brings a unique perspective on what makes a magical girl anime truly captivating. By ranking these beloved series, fans have a delightful opportunity to see which titles resonate the most with the broader community.
This live ranking taps into the heart of the fan community, where your votes directly influence the standing of each show. Whether you're a longtime enthusiast or new to the genre, your participation helps shape the consensus and potentially introduces newcomers to your favorite series. This dynamic list not only fosters community engagement but also keeps the magic alive, allowing new and legacy anime to shine through collective appreciation.
What Is the Most Popular Magical Girl Anime?
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155votes
Sailor Moon
Naoko TakeuchiSailor Moon is considered to be the most popular magical girl anime due to its impact on the genre and its global popularity. It was first released in 1992 and has since become a cultural phenomenon, inspiring numerous spin-offs, merchandise, and live-action adaptations.Sailor Moon is a popular anime and manga series that follows the adventures of a young middle school student named Usagi Tsukino, who transforms into the superhero Sailor Moon to battle against the forces of evil. Alongside her fellow Sailor Guardians, Usagi protects the Earth and the galaxy from various villains while also dealing with everyday school life and personal relationships.- Genre: Magical girl, action, romance
- Original run: March 7, 1992 – February 8, 1997
- Episodes: 200 (including specials)
- Manga volumes: 18
- Main protagonist: Usagi Tsukino / Sailor Moon
Sailor Moon in other rankings- Position 2 of 10 in Most popular cosplay
- Position 2 of 10 in Most popular old-school anime
- Position 3 of 10 in Most popular Nendoroid
- Position 5 of 10 in Most beautiful character in Sailor Moon
- Position 6 of 10 in Most popular anime character in Japan
- Position 8 of 10 in Most loved anime in Japan
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238votes
Cardcaptor Sakura
CLAMPCardcaptor Sakura is a classic magical girl anime that has been praised for its strong character development, engaging plot, and stunning visuals. It has also been adapted into a successful manga series and spin-off anime series.Cardcaptor Sakura is a popular magical girl anime that follows the story of Sakura Kinomoto, a young girl who accidentally releases a set of magical cards known as Clow Cards. Created by the renowned manga artist group CLAMP, Cardcaptor Sakura is a delightful blend of fantasy, adventure, and romance.- Genre: Magical Girl
- Original run: April 7, 1998 – March 21, 2000
- Episodes: 70
- Studio: Madhouse
- Main Protagonist: Sakura Kinomoto
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341votesPuella Magi Madoka Magica is a dark, subversive take on the magical girl genre that has gained a cult following for its unique storytelling and striking visuals. It has been praised for its exploration of themes such as sacrifice, friendship, and the consequences of power.Puella Magi Madoka Magica is a popular magical girl anime series that is known for its dark and psychological storyline. It follows the lives of a group of middle school girls who are granted magical abilities by a mysterious creature named Kyubey. However, they soon discover the harsh reality behind becoming magical girls.
- Genre: Magical girl, Drama, Dark fantasy
- Original run: January 2011 - April 2011
- Number of episodes: 12
- Main characters: Madoka Kaname, Homura Akemi, Sayaka Miki, Mami Tomoe, Kyoko Sakura
- Themes: Hope, Despair, Sacrifice, Friendship
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48votes
Magical Girl Lyrical Nanoha
Masaki TsuzukiMagical Girl Lyrical Nanoha is a popular magical girl anime that has been praised for its engaging storyline, well-developed characters, and impressive action scenes. It has also spawned numerous spin-off manga and anime series.Magical Girl Lyrical Nanoha is a popular anime series that blends elements of magical girl and science fiction genres. It follows the story of Nanoha Takamachi, an ordinary girl who becomes a magical girl after encountering a wounded ferret-like creature named Yuuno. As Nanoha embarks on her magical girl journey, she encounters various friends and foes, and her abilities grow to include the use of powerful weapons and spells. The series is known for its intense action sequences, complex storytelling, and strong character development.- Anime Type: TV Series
- Episodes: Four seasons (52 episodes)
- Original Run: October 1, 2004 – December 23, 2005
- Studio: Seven Arcs
- Genre: Magical Girl, Science Fiction
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513votesRevolutionary Girl Utena is a surreal, complex magical girl anime that has been praised for its exploration of gender roles, sexuality, and power dynamics. It has gained a cult following for its unique art style and thought-provoking themes.Revolutionary Girl Utena is a popular magical girl anime series that explores complex themes such as gender, identity, and power dynamics. It follows the story of Utena Tenjou, a tomboyish teenage girl who enters a mysterious academy and becomes involved in a series of duels to protect Anthy Himemiya, the Rose Bride. The anime delves into psychological and philosophical elements, challenging traditional fairy tale narratives in the magical girl genre.
- Episodes: 39 episodes
- Original Run: April 2, 1997 – December 24, 1997
- Genre: Magical girl, Drama, Fantasy
- Themes: Gender, Identity, Revolution
- Animation Studio: J.C.Staff
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619votes
Tokyo Mew Mew
Reiko YoshidaTokyo Mew Mew is a popular magical girl anime that has been praised for its cute character designs, engaging storyline, and positive messages about environmentalism and teamwork. It has also been adapted into a successful manga series and spin-off anime series.Tokyo Mew Mew is a popular magical girl anime series that follows the adventures of five ordinary girls who gain special powers and transform into powerful warriors called Mew Mews. These girls are infused with the DNA of endangered animals and are tasked with protecting the Earth from hostile aliens known as Chimera Anima. As they battle against these creatures, they also navigate everyday challenges like school, friendships, and romance.- Genre: Magical Girl, Romance, Comedy
- Original Run: April 2002 - September 2003
- Episodes: 52
- Studio: Pierrot
- Manga Adaptation: Tokyo Mew Mew, written by Reiko Yoshida and illustrated by Mia Ikumi
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712votesPreCure is a long-running magical girl franchise that has been praised for its positive messages about friendship, teamwork, and self-improvement. It has spawned numerous anime series and merchandise, and has gained a dedicated fanbase.PreCure, also known as Pretty Cure, is a popular magical girl anime series that has captivated audiences worldwide. It follows a group of young girls who transform into powerful warriors to protect the world from evil forces. The series combines action, comedy, and heartwarming moments to deliver an engaging and uplifting story.
- Genre: Magical Girl
- First Aired: February 1, 2004
- Number of Seasons: 18
- Number of Episodes: more than 700
- Main Studio: Toei Animation
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812votes
Magical DoReMi
Ito TakahashiMagical DoReMi is a classic magical girl anime that has been praised for its charming characters, heartwarming storylines, and catchy music. It has also been adapted into a manga series and spin-off anime series.Magical DoReMi, also known as Ojamajo Doremi, is a popular magical girl anime series. It follows the story of a group of young girls who discover a magical world and become apprentice witches. The show explores themes of friendship, courage, and the power of believing in oneself as the girls go on various magical adventures and learn important life lessons.- Genre: Magical Girl, Comedy, Drama
- Original air date: February 7, 1999 - January 30, 2000
- Episodes: 51
- Original network: TV Asahi
- Director: Junichi Sato
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911votes
Shugo Chara!
Peach-PitShugo Chara! is a popular magical girl anime that has been praised for its unique premise, engaging characters, and positive messages about self-discovery and personal growth. It has also been adapted into a successful manga series and spin-off anime series.Shugo Chara! is a popular magical girl anime series that revolves around the story of Amu Hinamori, a young girl who has a mysterious ability to transform her inner self into various characters known as 'Shugo Chara'. Created by the mangaka duo Peach-Pit, the series combines elements of comedy, drama, and romance, with a focus on self-discovery and personal growth.- Genre: Magical girl
- Original run: 2007-2009
- Episodes: 51
- Studio: Satelight
- Theme songs: 6
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107votes
Kamikaze Kaitou Jeanne
Arina TanemuraKamikaze Kaitou Jeanne is a classic magical girl anime that has been praised for its compelling storyline, intricate plot twists, and gorgeous art style. It has gained a dedicated fanbase for its unique take on the magical girl genre.Kamikaze Kaitou Jeanne is a popular magical girl anime series that revolves around a teenager named Maron Kusakabe, who transforms into the masked thief, Kaitou Jeanne, to hunt down and seal demons hiding within artworks. As Jeanne, she uses her divine powers and the help of her angel sidekick, Finn Fish, to cleanse the paintings and save innocent people. However, things become complicated when a rival Kaitou named Sinbad appears, and Maron's best friend, Miyako, starts suspecting her secret identity.- Genre: Magical girl, Romance
- Original run: 1998 - 2000
- Episodes: 44
- Studio: Toei Animation
- Manga adaptation: Yes
Missing your favorite magical girl anime?
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Discussion
Ranking factors for popular magical girl anime
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Fan base and audience receptionUnderstanding the size, passion, and engagement of the fan base is important. A popular magical girl anime must have a large and dedicated following. This can be assessed through online discussion forums, social media presence, fan art, cosplay, conventions, and merchandise sales.
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Financial successThe commercial success of an anime series can be an indicator of its popularity. Factors such as revenue generated through merchandise, Blu-ray and DVD sales, streaming services, and box office performance (if there's a movie adaptation) should be considered.
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Broadcast and streaming viewershipThe number of viewers watching an anime on television or streaming platforms, like Crunchyroll or Netflix, can be a good indication of popularity.
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Influence and impactHow much an anime influences the industry, other anime shows, and popular culture in general should be taken into account. This can be measured through the number of spin-offs, adaptations, sequels, cross-overs, or parodies it has inspired.
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Longevity and staying powerA popular magical girl anime may remain relevant and beloved by fans for years, even decades. Evaluating the enduring legacy of an anime in terms of its continued engagement, discussions, and popular culture relevance is important.
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Character development and storytellingThe depth and complexity of characters, as well as the quality of storytelling, can contribute to the popularity of a magical girl anime. Engaging, well-developed characters, and original, cohesive plots make for a more memorable and beloved series.
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Animation quality and art styleThe visual appeal and quality of animation directly impact the popularity of an anime. Unique, beautiful, and well-executed art styles contribute to the overall enjoyment and success of a series.
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Music and sound designEngaging and memorable soundtracks, opening and ending theme songs, and high-quality voice acting can elevate a magical girl anime and enhance its popularity.
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Themes and messagesPopular magical girl anime often explore deeper themes and provide positive messages that resonate with audiences. Themes like friendship, courage, self-discovery, and personal growth are common and contribute to the success of a series.
About this ranking
This is a community-based ranking of the most popular magical girl anime. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or magical girl anime is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!
Statistics
- 1862 views
- 195 votes
- 10 ranked items
Voting Rules
A participant may cast an up or down vote for each magical girl anime once every 24 hours. The rank of each magical girl anime is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.
More information on most popular magical girl anime
Magical girl anime has been a beloved genre for decades, captivating audiences both young and old with its blend of fantasy, adventure, and girl power. The genre typically follows a young girl who is granted magical powers, often by a mystical creature, and uses them to fight against evil forces threatening the world. Some of the most popular magical girl anime include Sailor Moon, Cardcaptor Sakura, and Puella Magi Madoka Magica. With their colorful characters, epic battles, and themes of friendship and self-discovery, it's no wonder that magical girl anime continues to enchant fans around the globe. So, which one reigns supreme as the most popular? Let's delve into the world of StrawPoll to find out!
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