Top 10 Highest Grossing Anime Franchises with One Storyline
8. My Hero Academia
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10. Hunter x Hunter:
Revenue: Hunter x Hunter, while not the highest-grossing anime franchise, has generated substantial revenue from manga sales, anime adaptations, merchandise, and video games. Its manga alone has sold over 84 million copies worldwide, contributing significantly to its financial success. Exact revenue figures are challenging to pinpoint, but estimates place its earnings in the range of hundreds of millions of dollars.
Storyline: The series, created by Yoshihiro Togashi, revolves around Gon Freecss, a young boy who embarks on a journey to become a Hunter and find his father, Ging. The narrative explores intricate themes such as friendship, survival, and morality, set against diverse arcs like the Hunter Exam, Yorknew City, Greed Island, and Chimera Ant arcs. Its complex storytelling and character depth set it apart in the shonen genre.
Key Revenue Sources:
- Manga Sales: A major contributor, with consistent popularity since its debut in 1998.
- Anime Adaptations: Both the 1999 and 2011 series have attracted large audiences worldwide.
- Merchandising: Figurines, apparel, and collectibles remain highly sought after.
- Video Games: Titles like Hunter x Hunter: Battle Allstars and others keep fans engaged.
Impact: Hunter x Hunter has left an indelible mark on the anime and manga industry, influencing storytelling standards with its intricate plotlines and character development. It remains a fan favorite, revered for its emotional depth and innovative world-building.
9. Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood:
Revenue: Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood is one of the most critically acclaimed anime series and has significantly contributed to the franchise's financial success, with an estimated total revenue exceeding $1.5 billion. This includes the sales of over 70 million manga copies globally, streaming and DVD/Blu-ray sales of the anime, merchandise, video games, and theatrical releases. The series has maintained its popularity across multiple generations, ensuring its financial longevity.
Storyline: Created by Hiromu Arakawa, Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood follows brothers Edward and Alphonse Elric as they seek the Philosopher’s Stone to restore their bodies after a failed alchemical experiment. The series delves into themes of sacrifice, morality, and the consequences of seeking ultimate power. With its detailed world-building, memorable characters, and a mix of action and philosophical depth, it has become a cornerstone of modern anime.
Key Revenue Sources:
- Manga Sales: The Fullmetal Alchemist manga’s success has contributed greatly to the franchise’s financial achievements.
- Anime Adaptations: Both the 2003 and 2009 anime adaptations have garnered worldwide acclaim and strong sales.
- Merchandise: Collectibles, figures, and apparel have sold extensively, with a strong global fanbase.
- Video Games and Films: The franchise's video games and theatrical releases, including the live-action adaptation, have maintained its financial success.
Impact: Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood has significantly influenced anime storytelling, blending action with philosophical themes. It has cemented itself as a staple in anime, influencing future series in terms of narrative complexity and character development, while expanding anime’s global appeal.
8. My Hero Academia:
Revenue: My Hero Academia (MHA), created by Kohei Horikoshi, has become one of the most successful modern anime franchises, with estimated total revenue surpassing $2 billion. This includes over 85 million manga copies sold globally, lucrative anime streaming and DVD/Blu-ray sales, blockbuster movies, merchandise, and video games. Its rapid rise to prominence has cemented it as a global phenomenon in the anime and superhero genres.
Storyline: Created by Kohei Horikoshi, My Hero Academia is set in a world where nearly everyone possesses superpowers known as "Quirks." The story follows Izuku Midoriya, a Quirkless boy who dreams of becoming a hero. After inheriting the powerful Quirk of the world’s greatest hero, All Might, Midoriya enrolls in U.A. High School, where he trains to become a professional hero. The series explores themes of heroism, identity, and social inequality, while focusing on Midoriya’s growth and the conflicts between heroes and villains.
Key Revenue Sources:
- Manga Sales: Consistently high sales figures, contributing significantly to the franchise's revenue.
- Anime Adaptations: The TV series, movies, and OVAs have garnered a massive global audience.
- Merchandise: Action figures, clothing, accessories, and various collectibles continue to sell well.
- Video Games: Games like My Hero One’s Justice have extended the franchise into the gaming world.
Impact: My Hero Academia has redefined the modern superhero genre within anime. Its exploration of complex themes such as personal responsibility, legacy, and societal expectations has resonated with a diverse audience. With its broad appeal across all age groups, it has become a global phenomenon and set new standards for the superhero genre in anime. The franchise's success has also paved the way for more superhero-based anime and has further elevated anime’s presence in mainstream pop culture.
7. Sword Art Online:
Revenue: Sword Art Online (SAO) has become one of the most lucrative anime franchises, with estimated total revenue exceeding $3 billion. This includes over 30 million light novel copies sold worldwide, lucrative anime streaming and DVD/Blu-ray sales, global merchandise sales, and highly profitable video games and movie releases. Its multimedia approach and international fanbase have cemented its position as a financial powerhouse in the anime industry.
Storyline: Based on the light novels by Reki Kawahara, Sword Art Online begins in a futuristic world where players are trapped in a virtual reality MMORPG and must clear the game to escape. The story follows Kazuto "Kirito" Kirigaya, a skilled gamer, and Asuna Yuuki as they navigate the dangerous world of Sword Art Online and other VR games. Themes of love, identity, and the consequences of technology are woven throughout the series, which spans multiple arcs, including Aincrad, Alfheim Online, Gun Gale Online, and Alicization.
Key Revenue Sources:
- Light Novel Sales: A primary revenue driver with consistent sales globally, accounting for a significant portion of the franchise's success.
- Anime Adaptations: The TV series and movies like Ordinal Scale and Progressive have garnered global acclaim and strong box office returns.
- Merchandise: Action figures, posters, apparel, and collectibles are popular among fans worldwide.
- Video Games: Games like Sword Art Online: Fatal Bullet and Hollow Realization contribute significantly to the franchise's financial success.
Impact: Sword Art Online revolutionized the isekai and virtual reality genres in anime, paving the way for numerous similar series. Its immersive storytelling, relatable characters, and exploration of futuristic technology have resonated with a wide audience. Despite mixed critical reception, SAO’s influence on anime and gaming culture is undeniable, contributing significantly to the growing mainstream acceptance of anime worldwide.
6. Attack on Titan:
Revenue: Attack on Titan is one of the most successful anime franchises of all time, with an estimated total revenue exceeding $3.5 billion. This includes over 110 million copies of the manga sold worldwide, as well as earnings from anime streaming, DVD/Blu-ray sales, merchandise, video games, and theatrical releases. The franchise's massive global popularity has made it a financial juggernaut in the anime industry.
Storyline: Created by Hajime Isayama, Attack on Titan is set in a dystopian world where humanity lives behind massive walls to protect themselves from giant humanoid creatures known as Titans. The story follows Eren Yeager, his friends Mikasa Ackerman and Armin Arlert, and their fight for survival against the Titans while uncovering dark secrets about their world. The narrative evolves from a survival story into a deep exploration of freedom, morality, and human conflict, culminating in a complex and thought-provoking conclusion.
Key Revenue Sources:
- Manga Sales: The manga, with over 110 million copies sold, remains a cornerstone of the franchise's financial success.
- Anime Adaptations: The critically acclaimed anime series, produced by Wit Studio and MAPPA, has been a major hit worldwide.
- Merchandise: From apparel and figures to limited-edition collectibles, merchandise has been a significant revenue driver.
- Video Games and Spin-offs: Games like Attack on Titan: Wings of Freedom and Attack on Titan 2 have added to its revenue stream.
- Theatrical Releases: Films, including compilation movies and spin-offs, have performed well in cinemas globally.
Impact: Attack on Titan has had a profound impact on the anime and entertainment industry, elevating anime to mainstream popularity worldwide. Its dark and mature themes, intricate storytelling, and groundbreaking animation have set new benchmarks for quality in the medium. The franchise’s exploration of human nature, war, and freedom has resonated with audiences, cementing its legacy as a cultural phenomenon.
5. Bleach:
Revenue: Bleach is one of the most iconic anime and manga franchises, with estimated total revenue exceeding $7 billion. Its financial success is driven by over 130 million manga copies sold worldwide, highly popular anime adaptations, merchandise, video games, and theatrical releases. The revival through Bleach: Thousand-Year Blood War has further boosted its popularity and revenue in recent years.
Storyline: Created by Tite Kubo, Bleach follows Ichigo Kurosaki, a teenager who gains the powers of a Soul Reaper—a guardian of the afterlife. Tasked with protecting humans from evil spirits known as Hollows and guiding departed souls to the afterlife, Ichigo is drawn into a series of battles involving Soul Society, Arrancars, and Quincies. The story is renowned for its intricate lore, dynamic characters, and epic battles, particularly in arcs like Soul Society, Arrancar, and Thousand-Year Blood War.
Key Revenue Sources:
- Manga Sales: A major contributor, with over 130 million copies sold globally.
- Anime Adaptations: The original anime series and the highly anticipated Thousand-Year Blood War revival have captivated fans worldwide.
- Merchandise: Action figures, clothing, posters, and collectible items remain popular among fans.
- Video Games: Titles like Bleach: Brave Souls and console games have extended the franchise’s reach.
- Theatrical Releases: Films like Bleach: Hell Verse and the live-action adaptation have added to its revenue streams.
Impact: Bleach has had a lasting influence on the anime and manga industry, particularly within the shonen genre. Its stylish artwork, memorable characters, and fast-paced action have inspired countless creators and captivated audiences worldwide. The series remains a cornerstone of anime culture, with its revival ensuring its legacy as a timeless classic.
4. Demon Slayer (Kimetsu no Yaiba):
Revenue: Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba is one of the most financially successful anime franchises ever, with estimated total revenue surpassing $9 billion. Its manga has sold over 150 million copies, while the anime, blockbuster movies, and extensive merchandise have been monumental in generating revenue. The film Demon Slayer: Mugen Train alone grossed over $500 million, making it the highest-grossing anime movie of all time.
Storyline: Created by Koyoharu Gotouge, Demon Slayer follows Tanjiro Kamado, a kind-hearted boy whose family is slaughtered by demons, leaving only his sister, Nezuko, who is turned into a demon. Tanjiro embarks on a journey to become a Demon Slayer to avenge his family and find a cure for Nezuko. The series explores themes of resilience, family bonds, and the struggle between good and evil. Its compelling story arcs, breathtaking animation, and emotional depth have earned it universal acclaim.
Key Revenue Sources:
- Manga Sales: With over 150 million copies sold, it remains a primary driver of the franchise's financial success.
- Anime Adaptations: The critically acclaimed anime series, particularly known for its stunning animation, has a global fanbase.
- Merchandise: Figures, clothing, accessories, and limited-edition items continue to sell at record-breaking rates.
- Movies: Demon Slayer: Mugen Train and subsequent films have been major contributors to the franchise's earnings.
- Video Games: Titles like Demon Slayer: The Hinokami Chronicles have extended its popularity into gaming.
Impact: Demon Slayer has redefined modern anime with its unparalleled animation quality, courtesy of studio Ufotable, and a gripping narrative that resonates with diverse audiences. Its massive success has elevated anime into mainstream global entertainment, inspiring new fans and creators alike. The franchise has become a cultural phenomenon, setting a new standard for storytelling and production value in anime.
3. Naruto (Including Naruto Shippuden):
Revenue: The Naruto franchise, created by Masashi Kishimoto, is one of the most successful and enduring anime franchises, with estimated total revenue exceeding $11 billion. This includes over 250 million copies of the manga sold worldwide, massive earnings from anime adaptations, video games, merchandise, and theatrical releases. The franchise's global reach and popularity have made it a cornerstone of the anime industry.
Storyline: The story begins with Naruto Uzumaki, a spirited ninja ostracized by his village due to the Nine-Tails fox sealed within him. Determined to earn the respect of others and become the Hokage, Naruto embarks on a journey filled with battles, friendships, and personal growth. The sequel, Naruto Shippuden, delves into darker themes as Naruto and his allies confront powerful enemies and unravel the mysteries of the ninja world, culminating in an epic battle against the rogue ninja, Sasuke Uchiha. Themes of perseverance, redemption, and the bonds of friendship are central to the narrative.
Key Revenue Sources:
- Manga Sales: Over 250 million copies sold, a cornerstone of the franchise's revenue.
- Anime Adaptations: Naruto and Naruto Shippuden have been widely acclaimed, with strong DVD/Blu-ray and streaming sales.
- Merchandise: Action figures, apparel, headbands, and collectibles are fan favorites worldwide.
- Video Games: Titles like Naruto: Ultimate Ninja Storm series have been hugely successful.
- Theatrical Releases: Films such as The Last: Naruto the Movie and Naruto Shippuden: Road to Ninja have performed well globally.
Impact: Naruto has left an indelible mark on anime and pop culture, influencing countless creators and captivating fans with its rich storytelling and iconic characters. Its themes of resilience, teamwork, and self-discovery resonate deeply with audiences worldwide. The franchise’s global success paved the way for its sequel series, Boruto: Naruto Next Generations, ensuring the legacy of Naruto continues for future generations.
2. One Piece:
Revenue: One Piece, created by Eiichiro Oda, is the highest-grossing anime franchise in history, with an estimated total revenue exceeding $21 billion. The franchise’s success is driven by over 530 million manga copies sold worldwide, blockbuster anime adaptations, movies, merchandise, video games, and spin-offs. Its unparalleled popularity has made it a global phenomenon and a cornerstone of the anime industry.
Storyline: The series follows Monkey D. Luffy, a spirited young pirate with the ability to stretch his body like rubber after eating a Devil Fruit. Luffy dreams of becoming the Pirate King by finding the legendary treasure known as the One Piece. Along with his diverse and loyal crew, the Straw Hat Pirates, Luffy embarks on an epic journey across vast seas, battling powerful enemies, uncovering world-shaking secrets, and forming lifelong friendships. The series is lauded for its imaginative world-building, emotional depth, and themes of freedom, loyalty, and ambition.
Key Revenue Sources:
- Manga Sales: With over 530 million copies sold, it is the best-selling manga of all time.
- Anime Adaptations: The long-running anime series and its cinematic arcs continue to attract millions of viewers globally.
- Merchandise: From action figures and apparel to collectibles, merchandise remains a major revenue driver.
- Movies: Films like One Piece Film: Red and One Piece Film: Gold have achieved significant box office success.
- Video Games: Titles like One Piece: Pirate Warriors and One Piece Odyssey have bolstered its financial success.
Impact: One Piece has become a cultural juggernaut, inspiring generations of anime and manga creators with its masterful storytelling and vibrant characters. Its influence extends beyond entertainment, representing themes of adventure and resilience that resonate universally. As the series approaches its climax, its legacy as a monumental work in anime and manga history is firmly secured, with its impact felt across the globe.
1. Dragon Ball (Z, GT, Super):
Revenue: The Dragon Ball franchise, created by Akira Toriyama, is one of the most iconic and lucrative anime franchises in history, with estimated total revenue exceeding $30 billion. This figure includes over 350 million manga copies sold worldwide, record-breaking merchandise sales, highly successful anime adaptations, blockbuster movies, and video games. Its enduring popularity has made it a cornerstone of global anime culture.
Storyline: The series begins with Dragon Ball, following Goku, a naive yet powerful boy with a mysterious past, on his quest to gather the mystical Dragon Balls and become the strongest martial artist. The sequel, Dragon Ball Z, expands the narrative with intense battles, intergalactic enemies, and the legendary Super Saiyan transformations. Themes of friendship, perseverance, and the pursuit of strength continue in Dragon Ball Super and Dragon Ball GT, introducing multiverse conflicts and escalating the stakes to cosmic levels.
Key Revenue Sources:
- Manga Sales: Over 350 million copies sold, making it one of the best-selling manga series of all time.
- Anime Adaptations: The Dragon Ball, Dragon Ball Z, Dragon Ball Super, and Dragon Ball GT series have achieved global acclaim.
- Merchandise: Figurines, apparel, toys, and collectibles have generated billions in sales.
- Movies: Films like Dragon Ball Super: Broly and Dragon Ball Super: Super Hero have been box office hits.
- Video Games: Titles like Dragon Ball FighterZ and Dragon Ball Xenoverse series are immensely popular among fans.
Impact: Dragon Ball revolutionized the shonen genre and introduced anime to a global audience, becoming a cultural phenomenon. Its high-octane battles, iconic characters, and memorable power-ups have inspired countless series and creators. Generations of fans continue to celebrate its legacy, and its influence on anime, gaming, and pop culture remains unmatched, securing its place as one of the greatest franchises of all time.
Final Thoughts:
These anime franchises have captured the hearts of millions by delivering gripping stories, memorable characters, and stunning visuals. Their financial success reflects their cultural impact, proving the immense global appeal of Japanese storytelling.
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