Want to Know Which Anime Are the Most Popular? The Industry's First Global Ranking Is Here to Tell You

Keeping track of the world's top anime has always been a challenge. Data on anime popularity is typically released sporadically by individual countries or companies, often only a few times a year—by which point rankings may have already shifted. However, a new initiative aims to change that. Parrot Analytics, a global entertainment analytics firm, and Animecoin, the anime culture coin backed by Azuki, have announced the launch of the industry's first official "Top 40 Anime Chart."

This collaboration will provide monthly rankings of the most in-demand anime titles worldwide, creating a Billboard Hot 100-style chart for the anime industry. Unlike lists that rely solely on streaming numbers or fan votes, this ranking system leverages Parrot Analytics’ advanced measurement tools, incorporating a wide range of data sources such as social media engagement, search activity, and even piracy trends. According to Parrot Analytics CEO Wared Seger, the goal is to establish an "authoritative chart that will become the industry standard for measuring success in anime entertainment."

January’s Top 5 Anime Will Surprise You

More Than Just a Ranking

The debut January rankings showcase a mix of long-standing fan favorites and newer hits. The Top 5 anime are: My Hero Academia, Dandadan, Jujutsu Kaisen, Attack on Titan, and One Piece. Notably, Pokémon (the original series) ranks 13th despite its late 1990s vintage, and Naruto holds 16th place, even though no new episodes have been produced since 2017. This highlights the enduring popularity of classic anime, which remain cultural touchstones long after their initial runs.

Beyond tracking what’s trending now, the Top 40 Anime Chart will also spotlight emerging titles and breakthrough series. Future iterations may also incorporate fan voting, offering a more interactive experience. Alex Xu, CEO of Azuki and contributor to the Animecoin Foundation, emphasized the broader mission behind the project: "The Animecoin Foundation's mission is to democratize anime and create a more inclusive and participatory industry where fans and creators can own a piece of the success they help build."

A Growing Industry, a New Standard

Shaping the Future of Anime Analytics

The introduction of this ranking system also comes at a pivotal time for anime. A recent co-study by Parrot Analytics and the Association of Japanese Animations (AJA) found that anime contributed nearly $20 billion to the global entertainment industry in 2023. The more data fans, creators, and industry professionals have at their fingertips, the deeper the insights will be into anime’s true global impact.

With demand for anime growing worldwide, the new "Top 40 Anime Chart" could quickly become an essential tool for tracking success and shaping trends on a global scale. Let’s hope it is used wisely.

Source: Parrot Analytics