Top 10 Greatest Anime Power Ups of All Time
Top 10 Anime Power Ups of All Time
Top 10 Best Anime Series of ALL TIME
Welcome to WatchMojo and today we’ll be counting down our picks for the top 10 anime power ups of all time. For this list, we’ll be going over the greatest upgrades and transformations in anime. Since some of these power ups come at crucial story moments, some spoilers may ensue. If there’s an anime power up that could’ve powered up our list, let us know in the comments!
#10: Full Cowling
“My Hero Academia” (2016-) Izuku Midoriya is an interesting case, because originally Full Cowling wasn't meant as an upgrade. Rather, it’s a limiter on his Quirk. Because his body can’t handle the immensity of One for All, Midoriya learns to limit how much he uses at once and distributes it accordingly. It’s a handy tool of the trade, since as Midoriya gets stronger, he’s able to use more and more of his full potential. And while he’s not quite at All Might’s level, he is well on his way.
#9: Demon Fox Form
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“YuYu Hakusho” (1992-94) A human with the soul of a demon fox laying dormant inside him, when Kurama switches to his original, silver-haired form, he attains his strongest power-up. Referred to as “Yoko” in the dub, this form has increased durability and allows Kurama to control a greater volume of deadly plants", capable of melting flesh and bone or constricting their prey. It also brings out his sadistic side, often toying with his opponents before killing them. We’re just glad he’s on Team Urameshi’s side.
#8: Black Asta
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“Black Clover” (2017-21) Asta’s mastery of anti-magic is already a step above the rest in a world where magic is everything. However, it’s when he draws on the power of the devil residing in his grimoire, that it truly has a chance to shine. As Black Asta, everything is enhanced. His attacks become larger, hsi appearance becomes demonic, and he also gains the ability to fly. In this state, Asta can take on many of the strongest magic knights, elves, and even high-ranking devils. Sure, he could probably take them all down with the power of his abs alone, but the devilish upgrade is cool too.
#7: Over Soul
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“Shaman King” (2021-) A highly versatile power up, Over Souls are created by shamans using their mana to conjure up a variety of offensive items, as opposed to simply merging with their Guardian Ghosts for an easy combat boost. These can be broadly divided into either weapons, armor, or manifesting spirit familiars. The strength can also vary based on the strength of the spirit involved. The unpredictability is part of its charm, with some reaching astronomical heights, a la Hao and his elemental giant of death!
#6: Gold Experience Requiem
“JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure” (2012-) Giorno Giovanna has a dream. And making that dream a reality is made so much easier by the absolutely broken power up his Stand gets! After stabbing his Stand with the almighty Arrow, Gold Experience gets kicked up a notch. Not only does it retain its power to create life out of inanimate objects, it also becomes able to rewrite reality. At its core, Gold Experience Requiem is a fabulous looking undo button; a golden middle finger to destiny. Even the concept of death is flipped on its head. After Muda Muda-ing reticent arc villain Diavolo into oblivion, he’s forced to die again and again for eternity in new realities. A waking nightmare of endless possibilities.
#5: Limitation Transformation
“Hunter x Hunter” (2011-14) Nen is one of the most versatile power systems in anime. By placing a restriction or vow on its use, a Nen ability’s strength can increase exponentially. We see the epitome of this during Gon’s battle with Neferpitou. Driven to despair by the death of Kite, Gon vows to use all the strength he will ever have in the future to defeat Pitou. This results in his transformation into an adult version of himself. In this state, Gon demolishes one of the strongest villains in the series like he were a paper doll. It’s a glimpse of what Gon could become, and it is haunting.
#4: Baryon Mode
“Boruto: Naruto Next Generations” (2017-) Naruto has had more power ups from the Nine-Tailed Fox living inside him than he’s had ramen, but he saved the best for last! In activating Baryon Mode, Naruto’s chakra and Kurama’s life force are consumed. In exchange, Naruto’s physical abilities reach new heights. Additionally, contact with his opponent also drains their life essence, which Naruto puts to good use in his battle with Isshiki by forcing him into a brawl. While the cost of this form results in Kurama’s sacrifice, it was almost worth it to see Naruto reclaim his spot as main character.
#3: Gear Second
“One Piece” (1999-) One wouldn’t think that eating a fruit that makes a body rubber would let him do anything all that special, but Luffy is the exception to the rule. While he’s now in possession of multiple Gears forms by this point, this first reveal is arguably the best. By using his limbs as pumps, Luffy can accelerate how fast his blood moves. This lets him move at incredible speed; making him a blur on the battlefield. Plus, the steam is an excellent touch. Though given enough time, we’re sure the higher gears will find a way to even eclipse this stellar example of the Straw Hat’s capabilities.
#2: Bankai
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“Bleach” (2004-12) While every Shinigami and their dog can unleash their Zanpakuto’s initial form, it takes a truly skilled individual to unlock its ultimate state. That’s Bankai. Each one tends to be cataclysmic, usually alter the Shinigami’s appearance, and change the tide of any battle. The effects can range from an increase in speed, to summoning a giant creature, to warping reality itself. Regardless of what the Bankai does, when a Shinigami says that word, you know things are about to go down
#1: Super Saiyan
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“Dragon Ball” Franchise (1986-) If you’re surprised, you must be new here. Super Saiyan is the anime power up! Many have come before, but few could ever hope to become as iconic as these deadliest of blondes. The screaming, the spiky hair, the aura, the incredible aira – Super Saiyan has it all. Upon reaching a level of rage and despair beyond any other, those of the Saiyan race may ascend to this legendary state, one whose ki, innate strength and other attributes are raised beyond all others. Simple, yet oh so effective.
