Anime has become a global phenomenon, with millions of fans around the world tuning in to watch the latest and greatest in Japanese animation. While there are certainly plenty of well-known and popular action anime out there, there are also plenty of underrated gems that are worth checking out. Whether you're a seasoned fan or just getting into the world of anime, these 10 underrated action anime are sure to leave you on the edge of your seat.
1. Zetman
The story follows two young men, one with the power to become a superhuman being known as a "Player," and the other a vigilante known as "Zet."As they battle against evil and corruption, they uncover the dark secrets of their pasts and the true nature of their powers.
Directed by Osamu Nabeshima
Produced by TMS Entertainment
Themes include power and corruption
Available on streaming platforms like Crunchyroll, Funimation, and Anime-Planet
2. Gungrave
The story follows two friends Brandon Heat and Harry MacDowel, who become embroiled in a war between rival gangs in a futuristic city. With stunning animation and intense action scenes, "Gungrave" will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.
Directed by Takeshi Mori
Produced by Madhouse
Themes include loyalty, friendship and revenge
Available on streaming platforms like Crunchyroll, Funimation, and Anime-Planet
3. Black Lagoon
The story follows a group of mercenaries known as the "Black Lagoon" as they take on dangerous and deadly missions in the criminal underworld.
Directed by Sunao Katabuchi
Produced by Madhouse
Themes include crime, violence and morality
Available on streaming platforms like Crunchyroll, Funimation, and Anime-Planet
4. Kokkoku
The story follows a young woman named Juri Yukawa who discovers she can freeze time and uses this power to try to save her kidnapped family members. The anime is unique blend of supernatural and action elements that will keep you guessing until the end.
Directed by Yoshimitsu Ohashi
Produced by Geno Studio
Themes include family and time manipulation
Available on streaming platforms like Crunchyroll and Anime-Planet
5. Jormungand
The story follows a young arms dealer named Koko Hekmatyar and her team as they navigate the dangerous world of weapons dealing and international politics. With intense action and a complex plot, "Jormungand" is a must-watch for fans of the genre.
Directed by Keitaro Motonaga
Produced by White Fox
Themes include arms dealing, politics and violence
Available on streaming platforms like Crunchyroll, Funimation, and Anime-Planet
6. Btooom!
The story follows a group of people who are stranded on a deserted island and forced to fight to the death using special bombs. This is a survival action anime with a good plot and thrilling action sequences.
Directed by Kotono Watanabe
Produced by Madhouse
Themes include survival and violence
Available on streaming platforms like Crunchyroll and Anime-Planet
7. Gatchaman Crowds
The story is set in a world where people use special powers to fight off alien invaders, and follows a new recruit named Hajime Ichinose as she learns to use her powers and struggles to understand the motivations of her teammates. With a unique and thought-provoking plot, "Gatchaman Crowds" is a must-watch for fans of the genre.
Directed by Kenji Nakamura
Produced by Tatsunoko Production
Themes include teamwork, power and alien invasion
Available on streaming platforms like Crunchyroll, Funimation, and Anime-Planet
8. Eureka Seven
The story follows a young boy named Renton Thurston who becomes involved in a war between humans and mysterious beings known as "Scub." With stunning animation and a compelling plot, "Eureka Seven" is a must-watch for fans of the genre.
Directed by Tomoki Kyoda
Produced by Bones
Themes include war, love and coming of age
Available on streaming platforms like Crunchyroll, Funimation, and Anime-Planet
9. Deadman Wonderland
The story follows a young man named Ganta Igarashi who must fight to survive in a twisted prison where the inmates are forced to participate in deadly games for the amusement of the guards and other inmates. With non-stop action and a twisted plot, "Deadman Wonderland" is a must-watch for fans of the genre.
Directed by Kōichi Hatsumi
Produced by Manglobe
Themes include survival, violence and government corruption
Available on streaming platforms like Crunchyroll, Funimation, and Anime-Planet
10. Tatami Galaxy
The story follows a college student named Watashi as he becomes caught up in a series of wild adventures and battles to win the heart of a girl he's had a crush on. With a unique plot and a fast-paced story, "Tatami Galaxy" is a must-watch for fans of the genre.
Directed by Masaaki Yuasa
Produced by Madhouse
Themes include love, college life and time loop
Available on streaming platforms like Crunchyroll, Funimation, and Anime-Planet
These anime have something for everyone, from supernatural powers to high-tech weaponry, and are available on various streaming platforms such as Crunchyroll, Funimation, and Netflix. It's worth noting that the selection of underrated anime is based on the writer's perspective and the selection may vary from person to person.
In conclusion, these 10 underrated action anime are a must-watch for fans of the genre, and even for those who are new to anime. They offer a refreshing take on the action genre and will leave you on the edge of your seat. Don't be afraid to branch out and explore some of these lesser-known shows, you might just find your new favorite anime.
