Whenever magic is used in anime, it always tends to have a dramatic flair. The imagery alone is often breathtaking. However, some anime have the coolest magic systems in the genre. Whether the magic uses real-world occurrences or contains completely original elements, the magic in these shows is incredible.
The magic systems of these anime can be the same for everyone in their universe, or they are unique to the individual. Likewise, some are only wielded by a handful of people in the show. Whatever the system or the way the magic comes about, fans are sure to be enchanted by these cool magic systems.
10 Attack On Titan Limits Its Most Powerful Characters
While Attack on Titan might not be the first to come to fans' minds when they think of magic, the ability to transform into a giant Titan is a pretty cool trick. The lore behind the Titans is as dark as it is fascinating. Plus, the fact that only Queen Ymir's descendants can become Titans is another interesting part of Attack on Titan's prestige.
Additionally, the limitations and rules involving Titans heighten the stakes of the story and make the whole system believable for audiences. Fans are more attuned to Zeke's urgency because they know he has little time left to live. Overall, the Titan power structure is well-thought-out and creative in its execution.
9 Soul Eater Works Through Soulmates
Soul Eater's magic system is based on the connections that two people make with each other. In essence, they are soul mates whose compatibility makes a big difference in whether a Meister and a Weapon are successful. Additionally, the notion of Meisters and Weapons as people make for some fantastic transformation and fight scenes.
Though Weapons and Meisters are not necessarily paired for life, it is enticing to see long-time partners in action in Soul Eater. The synchronization of their souls to create the most devastating blows is an awesome sight to see. Fans of the show are sure to be enthralled by the deep bonds the characters forge as they capture Kishin eggs and fend off malevolent forces.
8 Sailor Moon Has Celestial Powers
Sailor Moon is a magical girl anime with astronomical-based powers. Since all the Sailor Scouts are from the Moon Kingdom, they are all named after celestial bodies and have related magic at their disposal. Additionally, they can transform into their true selves with the help of special pens.
The magic system in Sailor Moon is fascinating, as it is all centered around space. Their powers can be based on the name of the planet they represent or based on the god that the planet is named for. For example, Sailor Mercury has water powers because the Japanese word for Mercury is "Suisei." The first kanji of Suisei is the kanji for water. Sailor Moon is a complex and fascinating show whose detailed celestial powers make for an enjoyable watch.
7 Demon Slayer Personalizes Breathing Techniques
Though Demon Slayer mainly highlights its fighting and swordplay, the Breathing Techniques are what make this anime magical. With a few main Breathing Techniques, each demon slayer featured so far has presented their unique style that is all their own. This is especially true of the Hashira, who have honed their craft even further.
As an example, Hashira Shinobu Kocho, who realized her strength was not enough to decapitate a demon, developed Insect Breathing as a result. Congruently, Tanjiro Kamado has discovered that a combination of Water and Sun Breathing works best for him. Breathing Techniques are a fun and interesting power system that allows audiences to speculate about what their Breathing Techniques would be.
6 Kill la Kill Weaponizes Clothing
No matter the viewer's opinion of Kill la Kill, there is no denying that the magic system in the show is unique. Each person's social status within Hannoji Academy is determined by the percentage of Life Fibers — magical, strengthening, sentient fibers — woven into the uniform. Those with uniforms that have a thirty percent Life Fiber count are a part of the prestigious Honnoji Student Council.
Though the Student Council is beyond strong, there are two who wield uniforms made entirely out of Life Fibers: Ryouko Mataoi and Satsuki Kiryuin. These special uniforms are called Kamui and drink the blood of their wearer to transform and provide unbridled power. Undoubtedly, an entire power structure based on clothes is both eccentric and impressive.
5 Naruto Utilizes Chakra To Great Effect
When young Shinobi in Naruto begin training, they start to develop their chakra. The chakra acts as an energy store for the ninjas' various magic techniques. Chakra is utilized in various methods, but most frequently by using hand gestures to create whatever effect the user specifies.
The effects of chakra can be tangible or intangible. They can also allow their user to do things that they would not normally be able to do on their own, such as walking on water. Though there is a limit to the amount of chakra a person can use at one time, there is no denying the awesome might a skilled Shinobi can display when using chakra to its fullest.
4 Fate/Stay Night: Unlimited Blade Works Uses Magic By Proxy
Fate/Stay Night: Unlimited Blade Works is singular in its use of magic, as it has modern Mages calling upon real and imaginary legends to fight in wars. The legends (called Servants) are bound to their Mages by three marks that the Mages get on their arms after summoning them. Each Mage's marks represent three commands Mages can use to make their Servants complete a task without question or hesitation.
Though the Mages are the ones with magic, the Servants have the fighting power. Additionally, there are different classes of Servants which adds another layer to the magic. Fate/Stay Night: Unlimited Blade Works is, overall, a beautiful and fascinating magical anime.
3 Avatar: The Last Airbender's Magic Is Elemental
Bending in Avatar: The Last Airbender is so cool because of how practical and almost scientific it is. Each bending type is based on one of four elements. Each element then has other styles of bending that branch off from them. Although not everyone in the universe can bend, its exclusivity is one of the things that makes it so special.
Furthermore, the Avatar Cycle that perpetuates the existence of the Avatar in the modern world is another awesome aspect of the magic of Avatar. Not only is a new Avatar born into the next nation in the cycle, but the current Avatar can see and communicate with their past lives. The whole show presents a smart magic system that feels natural within the story.
2 Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood Is A Practiced Magic
The magic system in Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood is unique because anyone can learn it. The biggest keys to alchemy are intense study and incredible discipline. While there are some hard and fast rules regarding alchemy, most people would never think to break them.
Alchemy can also be individually suited to people, so long as they learn the correct transmutation circle for the kind of alchemy they want to employ. Some have even gone as far as learning a certain type of alchemy and destroying the transmutation circle instructions so no one else can learn it. Alchemy is exciting magic with deep, rich lore that fans love to watch.
1 Jujutsu Kaisen Has Visually and Individually Stunning Magic
Jujutsu Kaisen's magic system is cool for its visual style and the particular powers that manifest in each magic user. Every Sorcerer in the show has their own Cursed Technique that they use to defeat curses. Though they are all born of cursed energy, the powers are brought about by the wielder's personality and inherent fighting style.
When Sorcerers, or curses for that matter, grow strong and confident enough in their skill, they can ensnare their victims or escape harm using a move called Domain Expansion. With it, the user creates their own space that is specifically catered to their particular strengths. Cursed Energy is a mindbogglingly powerful and devastating magic system.