Those familiar with animation are well aware that it can be quite costly to produce, especially in the case of action-oriented anime TV series.
Expenses tend to increase as the show continues to run, particularly in the shonen genre, which allocates significant resources to creating grand battle sequences and intricate story arcs.
Ample budgeting is entirely worthwhile if the anime can recoup its losses and more. Anime franchises such as One Piece or Dragon Ball have excelled in maintaining their popularity along with substantial finances.
Surprisingly, when it comes to anime series requiring the most substantial animation investment per episode, only one of the ‘Big 3’ makes it to the list of the five most expensive anime shows.
Let’s take a look at the list of the Top 5 Most Expensive Anime Shows of All Time (ranked):
5. Black Clover ($140,000 Per Episode)
Black Clover ranks fifth on the list of costly anime series, with each episode priced at $140,000. This cost is primarily due to its action-packed scenes, intricate mystical effects, and intense clashes, all requiring significant investments in animation and visual enhancements..
In a world ruled by sorcery, Black Clover showcases a diverse range of visually captivating magical abilities, meticulously crafted with precision. The significant per-episode cost directly reflects the immense dedication invested in bringing the series to life.
4. Jujutsu Kaisen ($150,000 Per Episode)
Jujutsu Kaisen commands an impressive $150,000 per episode due to its breathtaking animation. The series features complex combat scenes, intricate character designs, and visually stunning magical effects, all of which require substantial resources and top-notch artistic talent.
Jujutsu Kaisen revolves around Yuji Itadori, a high school student who gets involved in curses, spirits, and sorcery after encountering a cursed artifact. He becomes the vessel for the powerful curse Sukuna but retains control over his own body.
3. Attack On Titan ($150,000 Per Episode)
Attack On Titan is widely recognized as one of the most melancholic anime series to date. It features a nearly unrestrained amount of brutal and blood-soaked episodes, portraying the show’s characters with seemingly little compassion.
The storyline of Attack On Titan is complex yet reasonably straightforward, accompanied by incredibly fast-paced and adrenaline-pumping hunting sequences. The series’ protagonists work tirelessly to eliminate the horrifying titans they encounter, featuring combat animations smoother than ever. Wit Studio allocates an impressive average budget of $150,000 USD per episode.
2. Bleach: Thousand Year Blood War Arc ($160,000 Per Episode)
The Thousand-Year Blood War Arc in the Bleach anime continues the concluding storyline from the original manga. It extends the epic journey of Ichigo Kurosaki, a teenager with the ability to see ghosts, in his ongoing fight against malevolent spirits called Hollows.
The significant production costs associated with this arc mainly arise from its extended length, requiring a commitment to maintaining high-quality animation throughout numerous episodes. Additionally, the visually captivating combat sequences and the ambition to surpass the quality of the original series contribute to its high cost.
1. Dragon Ball Super ($170,000 Per Episode)
Dragon Ball Super ranks as the most costly anime series, with each episode carrying a price tag of $170,000. Several factors contribute to this high expense. Firstly, it capitalizes on the vast global fanbase of the Dragon Ball franchise, demanding top-tier animation and visually impressive action sequences to meet fan standards. Moreover, the series is renowned for its intense battles, complex choreography, and dynamic character movements, all of which add to the overall production cost.
The cultural significance of Dragon Ball Super further justifies the significant investment in upholding the franchise’s reputation. The elevated per-episode cost underscores the dedication to delivering an electrifying and immersive experience for fans, establishing Dragon Ball Super as a testament to the unwavering commitment of its creators.
