Science fiction has been a beloved genre for generations, offering countless possibilities and alternate realities for fans to explore. Anime, on the other hand, has been one of the most popular forms of entertainment in Japan for decades and has gained a huge following around the world. So it’s no wonder that the combination of these two genres has led to some of the most exciting and innovative series in anime history. Whether you’re a fan of futuristic worlds, complex plots, or epic battles, there’s a sci-fi anime out there for you.
From space operas to mecha battles, the world of sci-fi anime is vast and diverse. With so many options to choose from, it can be difficult to know where to start. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the 10 best sci-fi anime series to watch now. These shows represent the very best that the genre has to offer, and they’re sure to satisfy any fan looking for an exciting and thought-provoking journey through the universe.
Our list includes some of the most iconic and influential sci-fi anime series of all time, as well as some more recent titles that are just as impressive. From classic titles like Neon Genesis Evangelion and Cowboy Bebop, to newer series like Attack on Titan and Knights of Sidonia, we’ve got you covered. These shows offer a wide range of themes and styles, from hard sci-fi to space opera, so there’s something for everyone.
Whether you’re a longtime fan of the genre or a newcomer looking to explore the world of sci-fi anime, this list has got you covered. Each series on this list is a masterpiece in its own right, with compelling characters, intricate world-building, and stunning animation. So, sit back, relax, and get ready for a journey through the stars with the 10 best sci-fi anime series to watch now.
- Attack on Titan
- Cowboy Bebop
- Neon Genesis Evangelion
- Psycho-Pass
- Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion
- Steins;Gate
- Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex
- Knights of Sidonia
- Planetes
- Gurren Lagann
1. Attack on Titan:
Attack on Titan is a post-apocalyptic action anime series set in a world where humanity is on the brink of extinction due to the existence of giant humanoid creatures known as Titans. The story follows Eren Yeager and his friends Mikasa Ackerman and Armin Arlert as they join the Survey Corps to fight against the Titans and uncover the mysteries surrounding them.
Additional information:
- Based on the manga series of the same name by Hajime Isayama.
- Produced by Wit Studio and directed by Tetsuro Araki.
- Features intense action sequences and themes of survival, betrayal, and sacrifice.
- Has gained a massive international following and critical acclaim for its animation and storytelling.
2. Cowboy Bebop:
Cowboy Bebop is a classic sci-fi anime series set in a futuristic universe where bounty hunters, known as "cowboys," hunt down criminals across the galaxy. The series follows a crew of bounty hunters aboard the spaceship Bebop as they take on various jobs and confront their pasts.
Additional information:
- Created by Shinichiro Watanabe and produced by Sunrise.
- Features a unique blend of sci-fi, film noir, and Western genres.
- Known for its iconic soundtrack composed by Yoko Kanno.
- Has been praised for its animation, character development, and storytelling.
3. Neon Genesis Evangelion:
Neon Genesis Evangelion is a seminal sci-fi anime series set in a world where humanity is fighting against monstrous beings known as Angels. The series follows a group of teenagers who pilot giant mechas known as Evangelions to protect humanity and unravel the mysteries behind the Angels and the Evangelions.
Additional information:
- Created by Hideaki Anno and produced by Gainax.
- Known for its complex and controversial themes of identity, psychology, and religion.
- Has been praised for its unique animation style and character development.
- Has had a significant cultural impact and has influenced many subsequent anime series and media.
4. Psycho-Pass:
Psycho-Pass is a sci-fi anime series set in a dystopian future where society is controlled by a centralized computer system that monitors and evaluates people's mental states to determine their potential to commit crimes. The series follows a team of detectives and enforcers as they investigate and apprehend criminals in this highly regulated society.
Additional information:
- Produced by Production I.G. and directed by Naoyoshi Shiotani.
- Features a thought-provoking exploration of themes such as free will, justice, and authoritarianism.
- Has been praised for its unique setting, well-developed characters, and engaging plot.
- Has spawned multiple sequels, adaptations, and spin-offs.
5. Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion:
Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion is a sci-fi anime series set in an alternate world where the Holy Britannian Empire has conquered and colonized most of the world. The story follows Lelouch vi Britannia, a exiled prince who gains the power of "Geass," which allows him to control people's actions, as he leads a rebellion against the empire.
Additional information:
- Created by Sunrise and directed by Goro Taniguchi.
- Known for its intricate plot, political intrigue, and mecha battles.
- Has been praised for its character development, themes of morality and power, and emotional impact.
- Has spawned multiple sequels, adaptations, and spin-offs.
6. Steins;Gate:
Steins;Gate is a sci-fi anime series about a group of friends who accidentally discover a way to send messages back in time. However, their experiments have unintended consequences and they soon find themselves caught up in a dangerous conspiracy involving time travel and alternate timelines.
Additional information:
- Based on the visual novel of the same name by 5pb. and Nitroplus.
- Produced by White Fox and directed by Hiroshi Hamasaki and Takuya Satō.
- Known for its intricate plot, well-developed characters, and exploration of time travel and causality.
- Has been praised for its emotional impact, visual style, and soundtrack.
7. Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex:
Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex is a cyberpunk anime series set in a future where people can merge their consciousness with technology. The series follows a team of special agents known as Section 9 as they investigate crimes related to technology and cyberterrorism.
Additional information:
- Based on the manga series by Masamune Shirow.
- Produced by Production I.G. and directed by Kenji Kamiyama.
- Known for its complex themes of identity, consciousness, and technology.
- Has been praised for its animation, action sequences, and well-developed characters.
8. Knights of Sidonia:
Knights of Sidonia is a sci-fi anime series set in a post-apocalyptic future where humanity is forced to live aboard a massive spaceship called Sidonia. The story follows a young man named Nagate Tanikaze as he becomes a pilot of the mechas used to defend Sidonia against the alien Gauna.
Additional information:
- Based on the manga series by Tsutomu Nihei.
- Produced by Polygon Pictures and directed by Kobun Shizuno.
- Known for its blend of mecha action and sci-fi themes such as genetic engineering and artificial intelligence.
- Has been praised for its animation, world-building, and characters.
9. Planetes:
Planetes is a sci-fi anime series about a group of space debris collectors in the year 2075. The series follows their adventures as they navigate the dangers of space and confront the consequences of human activity in space.
Additional information:
- Based on the manga series by Makoto Yukimura.
- Produced by Sunrise and directed by Gorō Taniguchi.
- Known for its realistic portrayal of space travel and exploration of themes such as environmentalism and social inequality.
- Has been praised for its character development, storytelling, and animation.
10. Gurren Lagann:
Gurren Lagann is a sci-fi anime series about a young man named Simon who discovers a giant mecha and joins a group of rebels to fight against a tyrannical government ruling the world. The series features over-the-top mecha battles, epic storytelling, and memorable characters.
Additional information:
- Produced by Gainax and directed by Hiroyuki Imaishi.
- Known for its bombastic animation, uplifting themes of determination and overcoming adversity, and memorable characters.
- Has gained a cult following and critical acclaim for its unique style and storytelling.
- Has inspired multiple adaptations and spin-offs, including video games and manga series.
conclusion
In conclusion, the world of sci-fi anime offers a rich and diverse range of storytelling, themes, and characters. From epic space operas to mecha battles and time travel adventures, there is no shortage of thrilling and thought-provoking anime series to watch.
In this blog post, we have highlighted the 10 best sci-fi anime series to watch now, providing in-depth reviews and additional information for each of them. Each series offers a unique perspective on the genre, exploring themes such as technology, identity, social inequality, and the consequences of human actions.
Anime is a powerful medium that allows for imaginative and immersive storytelling, and these sci-fi series exemplify that power. They engage the audience with complex characters, rich world-building, and exciting action sequences, while also addressing important issues and themes relevant to our modern society.
Whether you are a longtime fan of anime or a newcomer to the genre, these 10 series are definitely worth checking out. Each one offers a unique and compelling viewing experience that will leave you thinking and wanting more.
So, sit back, relax, and let yourself be transported to these incredible sci-fi worlds filled with adventure, danger, and wonder. Who knows what discoveries and revelations await you in the vast reaches of space and time.
