Netflix has great anime across all genres, and that includes the cutting-edge possibilities of sci-fi anime, too.
The realm of Japanese animation covers an impressive array of literary and film genres, which means there’s something for everyone when it comes to anime, from charming rom-com series and chilling horror stories to harrowing dramas and, of course, science. fiction. In fact, some of the most legendary series in anime are science fiction.
Any sci-fi fan of movies like Matrix, the terminator, the martian, and more you’ll find plenty to enjoy in Netflix’s extensive anime library, including a handful of well-regarded and popular sci-fi titles, ready to stream on demand. Netflix’s library is far from complete, but it’s a convenient way to dive into the world of sci-fi anime and see what the best anime can really do.
Cowboy Bebop is a jazzy tour of the solar system
Despite the mixed reception and ongoing debates surrounding the live action cowboy bebop series on Netflix, the original from the 1990s cowboy bebop remains an iconic, albeit short, sci-fi anime series that most anime fans will hear about sooner or later. This series takes place in a gritty but also dazzling post-apocalyptic sci-fi setting where rogues like Spike Spiegel can make their own rules and fly freely through the solar system, though that doesn’t mean Spike’s life is easy. Gunfights, deadly enemies, high-stakes gambling and much more await Spike and his crewmates aboard the Bebop as they roam the stars, all with a moody jazz soundtrack to set the tone. Cowboys may be free in space, but sometimes they can’t escape their own inner darkness.
Bear Toppa Gurren Lagann is a Mecha Series All About Hope
Not all of the best sci-fi anime series involve giant robots, but many of them do, and a great example is the beloved series. Bear Toppa Gurren Lagannwhich can also be shortened to Gurren Lagann. This series continues to expand the scope of protagonist Simon’s adventures until this brave young boy fights to not only free Earth from oppression, but fights for the good of all Spiral life in the universe against the terrifying Anti-Spiral. But this series doesn’t take itself too seriously. The successful science fiction adventure of Gurren Lagann it also features charming cartoonish visuals thanks to Studio Trigger, lots of comedy, intimate character moments, and more, though it does introduce some tragedy and rough patches to balance things out. Simon’s journey to save all life on Spiral will be anything but easy, even after he breaks free to finally reach Earth’s surface.
Code Geass follows the rise of Lelouch Lamperouge
Code Geass is a popular sci-fi anime series from the mid-2000s, and it holds up pretty well today. The series depicts a near future in which the mighty Britannia Empire conquered Japan, soon known simply as Area 11, and the budding rebellion against Britannia’s oppressors. The tense political landscape may remind fans of attack on titan, like the conflict between the Marlian Empire and the scattered Eldian peoples, but with war robots and the power of Geass instead of Titan Shifters and gas-lamp fantasy technology. The antihero of this series is the legendary Lelouch Lamperouge, who is determined to overthrow Britannia at all costs, even if his allies are unwilling to pay the price themselves. At least Lelouch has the eye power of the Geass to help him fight for the freedom of Area 11.
Neon Genesis Evangelion Redefined Mecha Anime
The famous anime series of the 1990s Neon Genesis Evangelion helped redefine what giant mecha anime can really be, and even if young heroes like Shinji pilot giant robots, the story of NGE it’s much more human and intimate than that, and is often thought-provoking or downright disturbing in many cases. In this sci-fi world, what’s left of human civilization must battle the massive and deadly Angels with the power of Eva robots piloted by high school students like tsundere Asuka Langley, Rei, and Shinji. But having 14-year-olds pilot giant robots to defend Earth comes at a price, and these young heroes may not be prepared for the burdens placed on them. NGE is ready to stream on Netflix right now, along with the movie The End of Evangelion. However, fans may have to look elsewhere for the other movies, like the recent Neon Genesis Evangelion 3.0+1.0 Three times once.
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