Iconic Anime Openings: 20 Repeat-Worthy Anthems

Anime openings: they’re more than just a prelude to our favorite shows; they’re a ticket to a nostalgia trip, an adrenaline jolt, or a tearful journey. Whether you’re feeling like the world’s mightiest hero, an emo ghoul, or a strategic genius plotting your next move, there’s a track for that.

Join me as we dive headfirst into 20 anime anthems that perfectly capture the essence of their respective series. From titan-battling melodies to love-laden dramatics, here’s a playlist of anime OPs that’ll have you belting out choruses and, just maybe, doing a dance-off in front of your mirror. Let’s go!

1. “Guren no Yumiya” by Linked Horizon (Attack on Titan)

This banger by Linked Horizon serves us fierce, militaristic vibes that are pure fire. Infused with elements of German folk, “Guren no Yumiya” a battle cry, echoing Eren’s fiery determination. Why is it so fitting for Attack on Titan? Simple! This power metal banger embodies humanity’s relentless drive against near-impossible odds. Now, who else got chills?

2. “A Cruel Angel’s Thesis” by Yoko Takahashi (Neon Genesis Evangelion)

Who hasn’t belted out the “A Cruel Angel’s Thesis” at least once during a karaoke session? Or is that just an otaku rite of passage? A blend of J-pop with operatic undertones, Yoko Takahashi’s anison (that’s “anime song” for the uninitiated) delivers an anthem of youthful defiance. Adolescence? Humanity’s fragility? Big mecha energy? It’s all there! A timeless bop and Neon Genesis Evangelion in sonic form.

3. “Unravel” by TK from Ling Tosite Sigure (Tokyo Ghoul)

Ah, Tokyo Ghoul, why’d you play with our hearts like that? “Unravel”, with its haunting notes, dives deep into Kaneki’s psyche, torn between worlds. An emo anthem for ghouls and humans alike! Every chord screams internal conflict and begs the question: Who are we, really, beneath the surface? A ghoul? A human? Or just a fan crying over an OP?

4. “Again” by Yui (Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood)

“Again” by Yui is the electric anthem of Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood. From its unmistakable J-rock riffs to Yui’s soulful voice, the lyrics tell a tale of hope, resilience, and second chances—Ed and Al’s heroic journey in a nutshell. A fan-favorite OP, the song is a swirling blend of nostalgia, hope, and that classic Elric grit. How’s that for some musical alchemy?

5. “Hikarunara” by Goose house (Your Lie in April)

Ah, “Hikarunara” by Goose house! Like a cherry blossom’s fleeting beauty, it embodies the bittersweet SOL essence of Your Lie in April. This J-Pop opening dances between joy and sorrow, echoing the anime’s poignant love tale. Ever feel a song just “gets” an anime? This is it! Euphoric notes, tender undertones, and a love story that tugs the heartstrings.

6. “The World” by Nightmare (Death Note)

Nightmare’s “The World” perfectly captures the gloom and mystery of Death Note. The intense riffs? The dramatic vocals? They scream the weight of wielding the Death Note’s power. Gothic rock meets psychological thriller: what’s not to love? Every note of this anime intro oozes the suspense of Light and L’s cerebral battle. A game of cat and mouse, with a soundtrack to match.

7. “Oath Sign” by LiSA (Fate/Zero)

“Oath Sign” by LiSA is the magic circle that summons all the chills! Oozing with power, the song sets the tone for the majestic Holy Grail War of Fate/Zero. A melodic promise of legendary battles between epic heroes and…well, not-so-heroic ones. Why’s it a hit? It mirrors the show’s grandeur, fusing history with magic! So, ready to make a pact with this anthem?

8. “Tank!” by The Seatbelts (Cowboy Bebop)

“Tank!” by The Seatbelts — now there’s a groove! With its bombastic brass, smooth sax, and irresistible rhythm sections that scream interstellar chase, it sets the mood for Cowboy Bebop’s space-western adventures. It’s retro, it’s cool, and honestly, if Spike Spiegel had a playlist, this would definitely be on repeat. 3, 2, 1, let’s jam!

9. “Ranbu No Melody” by SID (Bleach)

“Ranbu No Melody” – does it transport you straight to Soul Society or what? SID, you absolute legends, delivering that perfectly angsty tone for our orange-haired shinigami’s darkest hours! Dive deep into this haunting melody and you’ll hear tales of battles, regrets, and… Hollows maybe lurking? It’s the quintessential tune for every last epic stand-off.

10. “Colors” by FLOW (Code Geass)

Every time the “Colors” chorus hits, I’m picturing Lelouch’s sly smirk, plotting the next big rebellion. This theme song is pure rebellion rock – and for Code Geass? An ace choice! FLOW captured the show’s essence of defiance and idealism. So, ready to join the Black Knights? Or just jam out? Either way, the revolution’s got a killer soundtrack!

11. “The Hero” by JAM Project (One Punch Man)

“The Hero” by JAM Project is energetic, pulsating, and oozing with confidence – just like our bald protagonist from One Punch Man. It’s as if Saitama’s sheer power was distilled into a rock anthem. The blaring guitar, forceful vocals, and triumphant chorus? They don’t just scream “I’ve arrived”, they declare “I’ve conquered!” with every beat.

12. “Bloody Stream” by CODA (JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure)

“Bloody Stream” by CODA isn’t just any anime opening song; it’s a flamboyant dance-off invitation! Why does it mesh so seamlessly with JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure? It’s simple: both are fabulous incarnations of drama and flair! Infusing jazzy tunes with some 80s glitz, this song narrates the struggles and triumphs of the Joestar lineage. Makes you feel like flexing in front of a mirror, doesn’t it?

13. “Sorairo Days” by by Shoko Nakagawa (Gurren Lagann)

Who the heck do you think you’re listening to? It’s “Sorairo Days” by Shoko Nakagawa! The anthem for all those ready to pierce the heavens! Bursting with youthful zeal, this track encapsulates Simon and Kamina’s fiery spirit in the in the legendary SF anime Gurren Lagann. It screams “never back down, never surrender!” and honestly, who wouldn’t want a drill that can drill through despair after jamming to this?

14. “Kaikai Kitan” by Eve (Jujutsu Kaisen)

Straight from Jujutsu Kaisen, Eve delivers this haunting yet catchy tune. Drawing from its title, which translates to “Strange Tales,” this track is an intricate tapestry of modern vibes and traditional Japanese undertones. Its lyrics delve into themes of life, death, and the struggles in between, much like Jujutsu Kaisen’s own narrative twists. A perfect match!

15. “Cha-La Head-Cha-La” by Hironobu Kageyama (Dragon Ball Z)

This legendary J-rock jam screams ’90s anime nostalgia. It’s all about optimism, challenges, and that undying spirit to push beyond limits—a perfect fit for the Shounen heavyweight that is DBZ! Nothing else could capture the essence of fierce Saiyan battles and hair that just won’t stop growing. Every time it plays, don’t you just feel ready to face Frieza or, you know, Monday?

16. “Pokémon Theme” by Jason Paige (Pokémon: Indigo League)

“Pokémon Theme” by Jason Paige — oh boy, does this take us back! Remember those days of trying to be the very best (like no one ever was)? This track was our anthem! It captures the essence of adventure, friendship, and the unwavering spirit of Ash and his poké-pals. Just one listen to this catchy opening and you’re 10 again.

17. “This Game” by Konomi Suzuki (No Game, No Life)

Who’s ready to challenge the gaming gods with just one life left? “This Game” is your jam! Sung by the talented Konomi Suzuki, it’s a vibrant anthem for every underdog gamer. Why’s it pitch-perfect for the iconic Isekai, No Game, No Life? Pulse-pounding beats, a symphonic background—it just screams high-stakes gaming drama.

18. “Fly High” by Burnout Syndromes (Haikyuu!!)

The volleyball court had never seemed very rock’n’roll to me until this bop for Haikyuu!! dropped. The Burnout Syndromes track just screams ambition, embodying Hinata’s zest and the Karasuno team’s drive to reach the top. Every time it plays, don’t you just feel the urge to jump up, spike an imaginary ball, and shout, “NICE RECEIVE!”?

19. “My Dearest” by supercell (Guilty Crown)

“My Dearest” by supercell is the emotional power ballad that defines Guilty Crown. Melodramatic? Absolutely. Epic? You bet your last void gene it is. With its heart-wrenching lyrics, supercell paints the chaos and love in Shu’s world. A classic anime tune that encapsulates a heart’s cry amidst sci-fi turmoil! Ah, the feels!

20. “Love Dramatic” by Masayuki Suzuki (Kaguya-sama)

Masayuki Suzuki, the suave king of city pop, delivered with this jazz-infused gem. The lyrics are all about the dramatics of love, which—let’s be real—is basically Kaguya and Miyuki’s MO. The playful cat-and-mouse chase, the “who’ll confess first” shenanigans—could there BE a better fit? Ah, anime romance! Why so dramatic… and catchy?

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