Time travel and reincarnation are two of the most popular themes in anime. Whether it's returning to the past with new knowledge or being reborn into a fantasy world, these stories offer thrilling twists on life, destiny, and second chances.
1. Steins;Gate
A brilliant mix of science fiction, time travel, and psychological drama. Follow Okabe Rintarou as he accidentally discovers time travel and tries to change fate without breaking the world.
Why watch: Ranked #1 on many fan lists, Steins;Gate is known for its intense plot, emotional stakes, and scientific accuracy 3
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2. Re:Zero − Starting Life in Another World
Subaru Natsuki wakes up in a fantasy world and gains the power to return from death — but only by reliving the same moments. He must uncover dark secrets to protect the people he loves.
Why watch: A gripping and emotional story that explores the cost of second chances
3. The Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime
Rimuru Tempest is reborn in a magical world as a slime with powerful abilities. As he builds a peaceful land for all races, he faces battles, politics, and deep friendships.
Why watch: Combines fun, action, and smart storytelling in a classic isekai setting 4
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4. That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Villainess
Catarina Claes wakes up remembering her past life as a gamer and realizes she’s now the villainess in the game she used to play. She decides to escape her fate and find happiness.
Why watch: A charming and funny twist on the reincarnation genre with cute characters and clever choices 2
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5. InuYasha
Kagome Higurashi is pulled into Feudal Japan through a magical well and becomes involved in a quest to recover the Shikon Jewel while traveling between eras.
Why watch: One of the earliest and most beloved time-travel anime, loved for its romance, humor, and adventure 3
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6. Erased (Boku dake ga Inai Machi)
Satoshi Fujinuma is sent back in time to his childhood to stop a series of murders — including his own. This psychological thriller mixes mystery and time travel in a chilling way.
Why watch: Ranked highly among fans for its suspenseful and emotional storytelling 3
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7. Charlotte
A supernatural story about students with special powers. When Yuu moves to a new school, he gets caught up in events that force him to time leap and change the future.
Why watch: Combines action, emotion, and time travel in a unique and surprising way
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8. The Misfit of Demon King Academy
Ansa Azen is reborn thousands of years after his death and returns to a world that has forgotten his name and power. He enrolls in a magic academy to reclaim his throne.
Why watch: A fresh and stylish take on the reincarnation genre with strong world-building 2
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9. Overlord
After a mysterious event, Momonga finds himself trapped in a fantasy MMORPG world. Now known as Ainz Ooal Gown, he rules from the top of the Great Tomb of Nazarick.
Why watch: Though not traditional time travel, it plays with the idea of being reborn in a digital world, offering dark thrills and deep strategy 4
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10. Sword Art Online: Unital Ring
In this new timeline, players are once again trapped in a deadly game. With memories from past adventures, they must survive and uncover the truth behind the system.
Why watch: A modern reboot of the SAO universe with new characters and high-stakes virtual reality battles
