What is the best anime from 2004?

Monster (9.24) ranks #1 among anime from 2004 on the Anime Codex rubric, which scores each show on story, characters, themes, world, animation and cultural impact.

How are these 10 anime from 2004 ranked?

Each show is scored 1–10 on six criteria, weighted by demographic, into a single Codex score. This page lists every qualifying anime from 2004 by that score and updates as the catalogue grows.

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Best anime of 2004, ranked

Every anime from 2004 in the Codex, scored on six things that actually matter and ranked by weighted score (2004–2004). 10 titles, led by Monster (9.24). Re-ranked automatically as scores change — no stale lists.

9.24

Monster

2004Top: Character 9.7

8.13

Major

2004Top: Character 9.0

7.63

Black Jack

2004Top: Cultural 8.5

Pretty Cure (Futari wa Precure)

2004Top: Cultural 9.0

7.40

Beck: Mongolian Chop Squad

2004Top: Character 8.5

7.20

School Rumble

2004Top: Character 8.0

6.85

Sgt. Frog (Keroro Gunsou)

2004Top: Cultural 8.5

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FAQ

What is the best anime from 2004?: Monster (9.24) ranks #1 among anime from 2004 on the Anime Codex rubric, which scores each show on story, characters, themes, world, animation and cultural impact.
How are these 10 anime from 2004 ranked?: Each show is scored 1–10 on six criteria, weighted by demographic, into a single Codex score. This page lists every qualifying anime from 2004 by that score and updates as the catalogue grows.