10 Most expensive anime series ever made from Dragon Ball Super to Jujutsu Kaisen
You won't believe how much these anime cost to make; over Rs 1 crore per episode! Anime production has always been a costly endeavour, especially for shonen series known for their epic battles, cinematic visuals, and complex animation.
In 2025, the budgets will climb even higher, driven by global demand and streaming competition. Some titles have now become the most expensive anime of all time, with studios investing hundreds of thousands of dollars per episode. These shows, including Dragon Ball Super, Jujutsu Kaisen, and Attack on Titan, are also ranked among the costliest anime series ever made. Let's dive into what makes these high-budget anime episodes stand out—and why they're worth every yen.
Expensive anime series of all time
Dragon Ball Super (2017 – Present) – Rs 1.41 Crore (~$200,000) per episode
Source: IMDb
The king of high-budget anime, Dragon Ball Super continues to dominate with jaw-dropping battles and god-level transformations. Toei Animation spares no expense, investing around $200,000 per episode for arcs like the 'Galactic War' in 2025. The intense animation quality, explosive fight choreography, and global fanbase keep this franchise at the top.
Attack on Titan (2013 – 2023) – Rs 1.05 Crore (~$150,000) per episode
Source: IMDb
Attack on Titan is a masterpiece of emotional storytelling and brutal action.
Wit Studio and MAPPA collaborated on the final seasons, each episode costing around $150,000. The mix of 3D manoeuvre gear sequences, massive titan battles, and detailed backgrounds makes it one of the most visually intense anime ever.
Jujutsu Kaisen (2020 – Present) – Rs 1.12 Crore (~$160,000) per episode
Source: IMDb
MAPPA's Jujutsu Kaisen sets a modern standard with cinematic animation and fluid fight scenes. Season 3's 'Culling Game' arc pushes budgets to $160,000 per episode in 2025, thanks to elaborate cursed techniques and stunning domain expansions.
It's a visual feast that blends supernatural horror with shonen action.
Black Clover (2017 – 2021) – Rs 1.05 Crore (~$150,000) per episode (movies/OVA)
Source: IMDb
Though the TV series ended, the 2025 Black Clover movie and OVAs maintain high production values, costing about $150,000 per episode. Studio Pierrot's magic battles and character transformations keep fans hooked with vibrant animation and fast-paced action.
JoJo's Bizarre Adventure (2012 – Present) – Rs 98 Lakh (~$140,000) per episode
Source: IMDb
David Production's JoJo's Bizarre Adventure is famous for its surreal art style and flamboyant battles.
The 'Steel Ball Run' arc in 2025 is the priciest yet, with $140,000 per episode spent on bold colors, CGI-enhanced Stand fights, and unique poses. It's an artistic spectacle unlike any other.
My Hero Academia (2016 – Present) – Rs 91 Lakh (~$130,000) per episode
Source:IMDb
Studio Bones' My Hero Academia continues to grow with the 'Final War' arc, featuring explosive hero-villain battles and emotional moments. The budget has risen to $130,000 per episode to deliver top-notch animation that matches its worldwide popularity.
Boruto: Naruto Next Generations (2017 – 2025) – Rs 84 Lakh (~$120,000) per episode (finale)
Source: IMDb
The concluding episodes of Boruto in early 2025 saw a spike in budget to $120,000 per episode, especially for the climactic battles and heartfelt goodbyes. Studio Pierrot invested heavily to honour the legacy of the Naruto universe with spectacular animation.
One Piece (1999 – Present) – Rs 77 Lakh (~$110,000) per episode
Source: IMDb
Toei Animation's One Piece remains a titan in anime, with the 2024–25 Egghead Island arc pushing budgets to $110,000 per episode. The vast world, diverse characters, and intricate fight scenes demand high production values to keep the adventure fresh and captivating.
Demon Slayer (2019 – Present) – Rs 70 Lakh (~$100,000) per episode
Source: IMDb
Ufotable's Demon Slayer is renowned for its breathtaking visuals and fluid sword fights. The 'Infinity Castle' arc (2024–2025) costs around $100,000 per episode, thanks to 4K backgrounds, CGI effects, and meticulous animation that brings Taisho-era Japan to life.
One Punch Man (2015 – Present) – Rs 63 Lakh (~$90,000) per episode
Source: IMDb
Despite Saitama's effortless victories, One Punch Man demands high budgets for its hyper-detailed expressions and epic fight sequences. With Season 3 coming in 2025, the budget has increased to $90,000 per episode, reflecting the show's growing complexity and fanbase.
What makes anime so expensive to create
High-quality animation
Fluid fight scenes, detailed backgrounds, and 3D effects require large teams of skilled animators, top-notch equipment, and long hours of rendering.
Lengthy production timelines
Top-tier episodes can take months of meticulous planning, storyboarding, drawing, and post-production.
Global streaming and distribution standards
International demand for anime on platforms like Netflix, Crunchyroll, and Disney+ raises expectations for consistent and professional quality.
Merchandising and fan engagement
Big budgets help produce episodes that resonate with fans, which fuels merchandise sales, movie tie-ins, and long-term profitability.
Also Read |
Black Clover Season 2 in production after 5 years with trailer coming soon
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Time of India
17 minutes ago
- Time of India
ED questions Telugu producer Allu Aravind for three hours in Rs 101.4 crore bank fraud case
Allu Arjun 's father and Telugu film producer Allu Aravind reportedly appeared before the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in Hyderabad in connection with a high-profile money laundering and bank fraud case worth Rs 101.4 crore. The questioning reportedly lasted for more than three hours. The producer addressed the media while leaving the ED office. About the money laundering case related to Allu Aravind The high-profile case is linked to financial irregularities tied to Ramakrishna Electronics and Ramakrishna Teletronics (RTPL). According to India Today, the ED carried out extensive searches at multiple locations including Hyderabad, Kurnool, and Ghaziabad as part of the probe. These operations stemmed from a complaint filed by Union Bank of India—formerly known as Andhra Bank—alleging that the group misused loans sanctioned by the bank for unlawful purposes. Allu Aravind Visits Boy Injured During 'Pushpa 2' Stampede, Gives Update From Hyderabad Hospital The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) in Bengaluru registered the case against Ramakrishna Electronics, RTPL, and their directors/partners—V. Raghavendra, V. Ravi Kumar, and others. The ED has reportedly found important documents that may be linked to properties bought using illegally diverted funds. They also froze about Rs 1.45 crore in bank accounts connected to the accused and their companies. During the searches, officials seized digital devices and found records of payments made abroad. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Sutri: L'ultima soluzione acustica svizzera: ingegnosa e quasi invisibile Migliora Udito Undo The investigation is still ongoing. Allu Aravind talks to media about the issue Allu Aravind recently addressed the media after the incident. In a recent video shared by GreatAndhra, Aravind was heard saying that the issue is related to a property he bought in 2017. He further stated that, as a law-abiding citizen, he had cooperated with the ED to facilitate the smooth progression of the case. He also remarked that the reports and recent news had portrayed the situation in an exaggerated manner. Aravind admitted that he is unable to share more details as the case is still under investigation.
Time of India
32 minutes ago
- Time of India
Nitesh Tiwari's 'Ramayana' starring Ranbir Kapoor and Yash becomes India's most expensive film franchise with Rs 1600 crore budget: Report
The upcoming 'Ramayana', starring Ranbir Kapoor and Yash, is set to release in two parts on Diwali 2026 and 2027. With a record Rs 1600 crore budget, it features music by Hans Zimmer and AR Rahman, and boasts cutting-edge VFX, promising a grand cinematic retelling of the epic battle between Rama and Ravana. The upcoming film ' Ramayana ', featuring Ranbir Kapoor and Yash, has quickly become one of the most anticipated releases in Indian cinema. The creators recently unveiled an official announcement video showcasing select scenes, which instantly captivated audiences online with its impressive scale and grandeur, leaving fans eagerly awaiting the full experience. Record-Breaking Budget As per Bollywood Hungama reports, the 'Ramayana' franchise carries a staggering production budget of Rs 1600 crore. The first installment alone accounts for Rs 900 crore, while Rs 700 crore has been set aside for the sequel. This enormous expenditure positions 'Ramayana' as the most expensive series in the history of Indian cinema. A source revealed that the reason for the reduction in budget for part two is a result of a large investment in asset and world creation for part one, leaving just the action sequences for the second installment. The characters built and designed alongside the set pieces will continue to be a part of the second installment. Collaborative Production and Global Ambitions 'Ramayana' is a collaborative production between Namit Malhotra's DNEG, Prime Focus Studios, and Yash's Monster Mind Creations. Instead of treating the budget as separate for each part, the creators consider the entire Rs 1600 crore as a unified investment. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like An engineer reveals: One simple trick to get internet without a subscription Techno Mag Learn More Undo Their goal is to make a lasting global impression with this grand two-part saga. Music Legends and Hollywood Tie-Ups to Elevate the Epic Legendary composers Hans Zimmer and AR Rahman have been enlisted to create the music and background score for 'Ramayana'. Meanwhile, the production team is negotiating with a top Hollywood studio to secure global distribution rights for key international markets. Star-Studded Cast and Release Dates Announced 'Ramayana' boasts an impressive ensemble cast with Ranbir Kapoor portraying Lord Rama and Sai Pallavi as Mata Sita. Sunny Deol takes on Hanuman, while Yash embodies Ravan. The film also features Kajal Aggarwal , Ravi Dubey, Arun Govil , Lara Dutta, and others in pivotal roles. The first chapter premieres on Diwali 2026, followed by the sequel in Diwali 2027.
News18
44 minutes ago
- News18
Metro In Dino Box Office Day 1: Anurag Basu Film Opens At Rs 3 Cr, Beats Life In A Metro By 300%
Last Updated: As per early estimates by Sacnilk, Metro In Dino first-day collection marks a 300% improvement over Basu's 2007 sleeper hit Life In A Metro. Metro In Dino Box Office Collection Day 1: Anurag Basu's much-anticipated romantic drama Metro In Dino opened in theatres to a decent start, earning Rs 3.04 crore on Day 1 at the box office. As per early estimates by Sacnilk, the ensemble film's first-day collection marks a 300% improvement over Basu's 2007 sleeper hit Life In A Metro, which had opened at just Rs 80 lakh. While Rs 3 crore may appear modest compared to blockbuster debuts, it's a solid opening for a romantic drama in today's theatrical landscape. The genre rarely sees high first-day numbers in India. The performance is particularly encouraging given the film's scale and its strong ensemble cast featuring Sara Ali Khan, Aditya Roy Kapur, Neena Gupta, Anupam Kher, Konkona Sen Sharma, Pankaj Tripathi, and Ali Fazal. The film is a spiritual successor to Life In A Metro and explores modern relationships across different cities through four interconnected love stories. Anurag Basu's signature storytelling style, combined with Pritam's soul-stirring music, has already received widespread acclaim. Konkona is the only actor from the original cast to return in this film. Metro In Dino has been praised for its nuanced take on love and commitment. An excerpt from News18's review states, 'It's not every day that we get to see a Bollywood love story written with so much heart, maturity, intensity, intimacy and subtlety. Metro In Dino is a masterclass on modern-day love. It's for the lonely, for the ones who won in love and then lost some. It's as much Anurag's film as Pritam's. Zamaana Lage, Dil Ka Kya, and Mann Ye Mera stand out particularly. Rush to the cinemas now!" The film's Day 1 success suggests it could enjoy positive word of mouth, similar to Life In A Metro, which went on to earn over Rs 24 crore domestically despite its slow start. First Published: July 04, 2025, 23:37 IST
