Polygon highlights anime series it considers consistently strong from start to finish, arguing that they avoid filler while pairing distinctive animation with character depth and ambitious themes. The article presents them as alternatives to more commonly praised classics, while acknowledging that judgements about perfection remain subjective.

– Monster: a 74-episode psychological thriller about surgeon Kenzo Tenma confronting the consequences of saving Johan Liebert, who becomes a serial killer.
– FLCL: a six-episode, surreal coming-of-age OVA in which alien chaos disrupts 12-year-old Naota’s suburban life.
– Steins;Gate: included among the selections as a series the article considers free of weak episodes.