The Cyberpunk genre is a classic, and since its early days, it has grown into a powerful source of inspiration for anime. Both Western and Japanese cyberpunk creators have added their own ideas that peek into the not-too-distant dystopian future.
In films like Blade Runner, with its futuristic Los Angeles inspired by Hong Kong, and William Gibson’s Chiba City, Asian high-tech urbanization has played a major role in shaping Cyberpunk’s style. It’s no surprise that Japanese artists and animators embraced this concept, blending their own culture into the genre’s themes.
Although Cyberpunk started in the 1980s, it wasn’t until the early 1990s that the genre’s common elements became widely seen in anime, manga, and even fashion in Japan.
“Modern Japan simply was cyberpunk. The Japanese themselves knew it and delighted in it. I remember my first glimpse of Shibuya…all that towering, animated crawl of commercial information…It is Blade Runner town.” And it was. It so evidently was.”
– William Gibson
We’ve compiled a list of the 15 best cyberpunk anime to watch as a tribute to the genre. Without much further ado, let’s get started!
- What is Cyberpunk?
- What Are the Main Themes in Cyberpunk Anime?
- 1. Cyberpunk: Edgerunners (2022)
- 2.The Animatrix (2003)
- 3. Paprika (2006)
- 4. Serial Experiments Lain
- 5. Neon Genesis Evangelion
- 6. Metropolis
- 7. Blame! (film)
- 8. Akira (film)
- 9. Ghost in the Shell
- 10. Planetes
- 11. Ginga Eiyuu Densetsu
- 12. Cowboy Bebop
- 13. Kurau: Phantom Memory
- 14. Levius
- 15. Casshern Sins
What is Cyberpunk?
Before we step into the world of Cyberpunk Anime, let’s take a look into where it all started.
Bruce Bethke’s book “Cyberpunk” introduced the word & concept to the world. Bethke coined the term “Cyberpunk” back in 1980 and used it as the title of his short story. By combining Cybernetics (the science of replacing human tasks with computers) with “punk,” the chaotic music and nihilistic worldview of the 1970s and 1980s, he created the term we know today.
Upon its publication in 1984, William Gibson’s groundbreaking novel Neuromancer would go on to help establish Cyberpunk as its own distinct genre, taking inspiration from both punk subculture and early hacker culture. Neuromancer takes place in a dystopian Japan where technology has taken over the control of society.
What Are the Main Themes in Cyberpunk Anime?
The themes covered in Cyberpunk typically contain futuristic technology features such as artificial intelligence, megacities, and advanced cybernetic technological developments. Cyberpunk narratives are often set in dystopian futuristic worlds that juxtapose gritty urban decayed worlds with high-tech advances.
Main characters are often shown in societies with sophisticated AI and cybernetics, against the backdrop of societal instability or revolution.
The beauty of Cyberpunk lies in its ability to create worlds and stories centered around one advanced technology, expanding it to a highly complex level.
Cyberpunk: Edgerunners (2022) is a thrilling anime set in a futuristic, dystopian world where technology and humans intertwine. With its slick visuals and immersive storytelling, it stands as one of the best cyberpunk anime series of recent years. Like many cyberpunk anime, it explores the dark underbelly of a society consumed by advanced tech, corruption, and chaos.
The anime follows David, a street kid struggling to survive in a world dominated by cyber-enhanced criminals and powerful corporations. As he becomes an Edgerunner, he takes on the risky life of a mercenary living on the edge of legality.
What is an Edgerunner?
Edgerunners live on society’s fringes, doing whatever it takes to survive in a harsh world. Walking the line between crime and survival, they take pride in being fixers, couriers, or mercenaries who operate just outside the law.
Over the course of the show, we meet various cyberpunk anime characters, each with their own cybernetic upgrades. Among them is Lucy, a skilled Netrunner with a mysterious past, who fits right into the mix of cyberpunk blonde anime characters.
With its intense action and rich visuals, Cyberpunk: Edgerunners is a must-watch for anyone who loves cyberpunk anime movies and dystopian futures. Watch Cyberpunk: Edgerunners (2022) on Netflix.
2. The Animatrix (2003)
The Animatrix is a collection of nine short animated films that expand the Matrix universe. Each story explores different aspects of the world, ranging from the origins of the war between humans and machines to individual experiences of people living in the simulated reality of the Matrix. It is a must-watch for any Matrix fan or cyberpunk lover. Each short is made by different directors, providing unique animation styles and perspectives.
Story Overview
One of the key stories, The Second Renaissance, shows how artificial intelligence turned against humans, leading to a war that devastated the planet. Another story, The Final Flight of the Osiris, tells the tale of a crew’s desperate mission to warn the human resistance about an impending machine attack.
Other shorts like Kid’s Story and Beyond focus on individuals discovering the truth about the Matrix and their attempts to break free from virtual reality.
Key themes include the struggle between humans and technology, freedom versus control and the nature of reality. Overall, The Animatrix enriches the Matrix franchise by diving deeper into its mythology and exploring the tension between humans and machines.
Where to Watch The Animatrix?
You can find The Animatrix on various streaming platforms, including Prime Video and Apple TV. It is also available in high-quality on The Animatrix Blu-Ray for collectors. If you’re looking for where to watch The Animatrix, check popular platforms that offer The Animatrix streaming. Furthermore, animatrix boasts an impressive IMDb rating of 7.3, a testament to its quality and impact on the anime and cyberpunk communities.
3. Paprika (2006)
In Paprika, scientists have created a device called the DC Mini, which allows therapists to enter people’s dreams and help them solve deep-rooted psychological issues. However, when the device is stolen, chaos ensues as dreams begin to merge with reality. Paprika, the main character and dream detective, embarks on a thrilling journey to stop the chaos.
Themes of Paprika
The movie delves into themes of identity, technology, and the blurry line between dreams and reality. It’s a powerful commentary on how our subconscious can be manipulated and how technology can both help and harm us.
As a rated R anime, Paprika offers intense, mature themes that challenge viewers. Its cyberpunk aesthetics—dystopian elements, advanced tech, and the exploration of human consciousness—make it a standout among Satoshi Kon movies.
Where to Watch Paprika ?
You can watch Paprika on streaming platforms like Amazon Prime or rent it on Google Play. It has a solid IMDb rating of 7.7/10, making it a highly recommended film for anime enthusiasts.
The series is considered one of the best in the cyberpunk genre due to its futuristic setting, exploration of technological impacts, and philosophical questions about human nature and reality. Its eerie atmosphere, combined with surreal animation, makes it both captivating and unsettling.
Story Overview
The anime follows Lain Iwakura, a shy 14-year-old girl, who becomes curious about the “Wired” (a virtual reality similar to the internet) after receiving a strange email from a classmate who recently committed suicide. As Lain dives deeper into the Wired, she begins to uncover secrets about her identity, reality, and the world around her, blending the lines between the virtual and the real.
Themes and Atmosphere
Serial Experiments Lain is a masterpiece in exploring themes like identity, consciousness, and the impact of technology on society. It’s a deep dive into the relationship between humans and the digital world, making it a must-watch for fans of cyberpunk.
Where to Watch Serial Experiments Lain ?
You can watch Serial Experiments Lain on popular streaming platforms like Crunchyroll in some countries. To experience all the Serial Experiments Lain episodes, Crunchyroll is your go-to option. With an IMDb rating of 8.1, Serial Experiments Lain has a solid reputation among anime fans for its deep, thought-provoking storyline.
Is Serial Experiments Lain Banned?
As of today, there is no official ban on Serial Experiments Lain, but due to its disturbing themes, some viewers may find it unsettling. This could be the reason for confusion around whether the show is “banned.”
5. Neon Genesis Evangelion
Hideaki Anno’s Neon Genesis Evangelion is a legendary 90s Mecha anime series. First airing in 1995, the show blends action, psychology, and philosophy in a unique way that sets it apart. The story revolves around Shinji Ikari, a teenager who must pilot a massive biomechanical robot called an “Eva” to battle monstrous beings known as ‘Angels’. Alongside him are characters like Rei Ayanami and Asuka Langley, each with their own struggles.
Neon Genesis Evangelion’s cult following drew fans in with its deep character development and gripping action scenes. Its thought-provoking exploration of religion and psychoanalysis makes it one of the most complex and layered anime series ever created.
Themes and Cyberpunk Influence
One of the best cyberpunk anime of all time, Neon Genesis Evangelion explores themes of identity, existentialism, and mental health. It questions the meaning of life, human connection, and the role of technology in the future. This dark, introspective tone is central to the cyberpunk genre, and “Evangelion” executes it flawlessly.
Neon Genesis Evangelion Watch Order
To fully understand the Neon Genesis Evangelion franchise, follow this watch order:
- Neon Genesis Evangelion (Episodes 1-26)
- Neon Genesis Evangelion: Death & Rebirth
- The End of Evangelion (for the original ending)
- Rebuild of Evangelion films (for a modern retelling)
If you’re wondering how to watch Neon Genesis Evangelion in order, it’s best to start with the original 26-episode series, followed by the movie Neon Genesis Evangelion: Death & Rebirth and The End of Evangelion, which offers a thought-provoking conclusion. Watch the original 26 episodes of Neon Genesis Evangelion on Netflix.
Rebuild of Evangelion
The Rebuild of Evangelion film series began over a decade after the original anime ended. Creator Hideaki Anno initially planned a trilogy that would stay true to the essence of the original show while introducing the story to a new audience.
To watch the Rebuild of Evangelion, follow this order:
- Evangelion: 1.0 You Are (Not) Alone (2007)
- Evangelion: 2.0 You Can (Not) Advance (2009)
- Evangelion: 3.0 You Can (Not) Redo (2012)
- Evangelion: 3.0+1.0 Thrice Upon a Time (2021)
Neon Genesis Evangelion Characters and Angels
Key characters like Shinji, Asuka, and Rei Ayanami drive the emotional core of the series. They battle against Angels—powerful, alien-like beings attacking Earth. Each Angel has unique abilities, adding tension to each episode.
Where to Watch Neon Genesis Evangelion ?
Currently, you can stream “Neon Genesis Evangelion” on platforms like Crunchyroll and Netflix. With an IMDB rating of 8.5/10, “Neon Genesis Evangelion” is widely regarded as one of the best anime of all time. Its influence spans across anime, manga, and even mainstream pop culture.
6. Metropolis
Metropolis (2001) is based on Osamu Tezuka’s manga and Fritz Lang’s 1927 silent film. This anime combines retro-futuristic aesthetics with a profound narrative, making it a standout in the genre.
Story Overview
In the sprawling city of Metropolis, a world where humans and machines live side by side, tension runs high as inequality and discrimination grow worse each day. Violence and unrest fill the streets. The story follows Japanese investigator Shunsaku Ban and his nephew Kenichi, who arrive in Metropolis to track down Dr. Laughton, a scientist accused of illegal human experiments like organ trafficking.
While searching, Kenichi stumbles upon a mysterious girl in the scientist’s lab who has no memory of her past. He decides to help her escape, and together they flee the dangers lurking in the city. Shunsaku, determined to find both Kenichi and the truth, dives deeper into the city’s darkest secrets, hunting down Duke Red—the powerful figure pulling the strings behind the scenes.
As Kenichi tries to protect the girl from those hunting her, he discovers Duke Red and his adopted son have dangerous reasons for chasing her. The girl’s origins hold the key to controlling Metropolis itself.
The 2001 Metropolis anime showcases breathtaking visuals, with detailed backgrounds and fluid character animation. Every frame feels alive, filled with minor actions like characters smoking, tossing money, or moving about.
Where to Watch The Metropolis Anime ?
With an IMDb rating of 7.2/10, Metropolis (2001) is highly regarded for its artistic style and thought-provoking story. You can watch Metropolis anime streaming on platforms like Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, and Vudu. It’s also available for rent or purchase on other major platforms.
Blame! is a thrilling cyberpunk anime, based on the Blame! Manga, that deserves your attention, especially if you’re a fan of iconic titles like Akira. Released in 2017, this film is a dark, atmospheric journey into a dystopian future, filled with action, mystery, and stunning visuals.
A Unique Storyline
Blame! follows Killy, a silent protagonist on a mission to save humanity. The world has been taken over by rogue machines, and humans are nearly extinct. With minimal dialogue, the film relies on its immersive visuals and action to tell a captivating story where Zuru, a young girl, is on a desperate mission to find food in a ruined city ruled by robots. While searching, her group accidentally triggers the city’s defense system, known as the Safeguard. The robots immediately attack, and her team is in serious danger until a mysterious man named Killy arrives and destroys the hostile robots, saving them.
Even though Killy helps, Zuru isn’t sure if she can trust him. Killy explains that he came from deep below the city, searching for humans with something called the “Net Terminal Genes.” These genes could allow humans to take back control of the city and shut down the Safeguard.
After hearing Killy’s story, Zuru and her group decide to join him on a journey to find the Net Terminal Genes, which may be humanity’s last hope for survival.
Themes of Isolation and Technology
Blame! has a dark futuristic plot with enough action to keep you on the edge of your seat, as is typical of most cyberpunk games. Like Akira and its manga counterpart, Blame! explores the consequences of technology going out of control. It questions the future of humanity in a world where machines have more power than people, much like the themes seen in the Akira movie and Akira bike chases.
Where to Watch Blame!
You can stream the Blame! anime film on Netflix, making it accessible for viewers who love to watch Akira anime or are looking for similar cyberpunk experiences. With an IMDb rating of 6.7/10, Blame! might not be a perfect film, but its unique take on cyberpunk.
8. Akira (film)
Akira is a legendary anime film that has influenced countless works in science fiction and animation. It was released in 1988.
The Story of Akira
In 1988, a young boy with psychic powers causes a massive explosion in Tokyo, starting the chain of events that leads to World War III. The boy is captured and hidden away to prevent further destruction, never to be seen again. Fast forward to the year 2019, and Tokyo has been rebuilt into Neo-Tokyo, a city plagued by gang violence and terrorist acts against the government.
Shoutarou Kaneda is the leader of a gang called “The Capsules,” known for riding powerful, customized motorbikes. They frequently clash with a rival gang called “The Clowns.” During one of these fights, Kaneda’s best friend, Tetsuo Shima, is in an accident with a mysterious boy who has escaped from a government lab. After the encounter, Tetsuo starts developing strange and dangerous powers. As the government tries to capture Tetsuo to prevent another disaster, his abilities grow, threatening to destroy the city once again.
Themes Explored
The film tackles the impact of technology on society, human experimentation, and the clash between power and control, making it more than just an anime.
Where to Watch Akira ?
You can watch Akira on streaming platforms like Hulu and Netflix. Search for “watch Akira anime” to find the best options for viewing. The movie has a solid rating of 8.0/10 on IMDB, showing its timeless appeal.
9. Ghost in the Shell
Probably one of the most famous 90s anime, a legendary cyberpunk story. Since 1995, Ghost in the Shell has captivated audiences with its deep, philosophical storyline and groundbreaking animation.
Brief Overview of the Story
The plot follows Major Motoko Kusanagi, a cybernetically enhanced government agent, as she tracks a mysterious hacker known as the Puppet Master. As she delves deeper into the investigation, questions about identity, consciousness, and what it means to be human emerge. Alongside a team of diverse characters, including Batou and Saito, Major Motoko faces not only external enemies but also inner conflicts about her existence.
Why It’s a Cyberpunk Classic?
The anime beautifully portrays the classic cyberpunk setting with advanced tech, dystopian societies, and a gritty, neon-lit aesthetic.
The iconic Type 303 Arm Suit and Saito’s 50 BMG Sniper Rifle or 20mm Sniper Rifle adds to the cyberpunk aesthetic of hi-tech but gritty whilst enhancing the high-stakes, futuristic feel, making it a visual masterpiece.
Where to Watch Ghost in the Shell (1995) ?
You can watch Ghost in the Shell 1995 on popular streaming platforms like Netflix, Hulu, or Crunchyroll. Its complex characters and unforgettable plot make it worth every minute. The movie has a strong rating on IMDb, currently standing at 8.0/10, solidifying its place among the top anime movies of all time.
Planetes is a hidden gem in the world of anime, especially for fans of sci-fi and cyberpunk. Unlike most space-themed anime, Planetes focuses on space debris collectors. Set in 2075, it tells the story of a crew working to remove dangerous space debris to prevent collisions in Earth’s orbit. It’s an original concept that’s both thrilling and thought-provoking.
If you love realistic portrayals of future technology, this anime delivers. The science behind space travel, zero gravity, and living in space feels grounded, making the story more immersive. It doesn’t rely on flashy superpowers but explores human ingenuity.
Story Overview
Set in the year 2075, Planetes revolves around a team working in space debris collection. As space travel becomes common, the issue of space junk becomes critical. The story focuses on the personal and professional struggles of the team, especially Hachimaki, a young astronaut, Ai Tanabe, an energetic young woman with a deep fascination for the stars, lands a job at Technora Corporation’s Debris Section—a team tasked with cleaning up hazardous space debris between Earth and the Moon.
However, Ai soon realizes her role isn’t exactly glamorous. The Debris Section is the laughingstock of the company, underfunded and barely staffed. They rely on an old, worn-out spacecraft called the “Toy Box” to carry out their work. Yet, Ai refuses to be discouraged. As she settles in, she meets her quirky coworkers, like the clumsy but kind-hearted chief clerk Philippe Myers and the fiery Hachirouta Hoshino, who dreams of owning his own ship.. The anime beautifully mixes everyday life in space with complex themes about humanity’s future.
Themes
The theme of Planetes including corporate greed, the divide between the rich and poor, and environmental concerns. It also dives deep into existential questions, like humanity’s place in the universe and the cost of technological advancement.
Planetes is an unorthodox science fiction series that depicts the expanse of space as a background for the daily lives of regular people who were born on Earth but had goals and dreams that lay beyond the stars.
Where to watch Planetes?
You can stream Planetes on platforms like Crunchyroll. It has an impressive IMDB rating of 8.2/10, showing it’s highly regarded by viewers.
11. Legend of Galactic Heroes/Ginga Eiyuu Densetsu
Legend of the Galactic Heroes (Ginga Eiyuu Densetsu) is a must-watch for fans of space operas and intellectual storytelling. It’s often praised as one of the most complex and epic anime series ever created. Here’s why you should dive into this classic.
Story Overview
Legend of the Galactic Heroes is an epic space saga filled with deep characters, thrilling battles, and intense strategy. The story follows a 150-year conflict between the Galactic Empire and the Free Planets Alliance, which finally begins to shift when two brilliant leaders emerge.Two brilliant leaders emerge from the chaos: Reinhard von Lohengramm, an ambitious military mastermind, and Yang Wenli, a calm strategist who fiercely believes in democracy.
Reinhard, with his close friend Siegfried Kircheis by his side, rises through the Imperial ranks with a mission not only to win battles but to topple the decaying Goldenbaum Dynasty. He seeks to protect his sister and unite the galaxy under his rule. On the other side, Yang remains loyal to his democratic ideals, mentoring his young apprentice, Julian Mintz, that freedom is worth fighting for—even as authoritarianism looms.
In the Reinhard and Yang clash in breathtaking space battles, they each begin to wonder what they’re really fighting for and the cost of war grows heavier. It is a mix of Ancient Rome, Victorian, and cyberpunk aesthetics, Legend of the Galactic Heroes continues to captivate audiences—even after 30 years.
Themes
Legend of the Galactic Heroes explores complex themes like the nature of democracy vs. autocracy, the cost of war, and the morality of leadership. The philosophical depth makes it not just a space battle anime, but a profound exploration of humanity’s fate. The legend of the galactic heroes symbol reflects these deeper messages of power and conflict.
Where to Watch Legend of Galactic Heroes?
You can watch Legend of the Galactic Heroes on streaming platforms like Crunchyroll and HiDive. The 2018 remake, legend of the galactic heroes die neue these, and its latest installments, including season 5, are widely available online.
Watching the prequel Legend of the Galactic Heroes Gaiden can help enrich your understanding of the universe. Legend of the Galactic Heroes holds an impressive 9.1/10 on IMDb, reflecting its critical acclaim and loyal fanbase. With legend of the galactic heroes season 5 releasing soon, now is the perfect time to start watching!
The series is based on a famous novel series by Yoshiki Tanaka. The legend of the galactic heroes books and manga offer deep dives into the characters and plots. For example, LOGH characters like Reinhard and Greenhill are given even more background in these adaptations.
The show’s space battles are legendary, with stunning depictions of legend of the galactic heroes ship clashes that are beautifully remastered in the Legend Of Galactic Heroes Blu-Ray edition.
Watch Order for Legend of the Galactic Heroes
- Legend of the Galactic Heroes: My Conquest is the Sea of Stars (Movie)
Start with this to get an introduction to the main characters and the universe. - Legend of the Galactic Heroes: Overture to a New War (Movie)
This movie expands on the first two episodes of the main series with more depth. - Legend of the Galactic Heroes (OVA)
Watch the original 110-episode OVA series, which is the core story of the saga. - Legend of the Galactic Heroes Gaiden (OVA)
These are prequel episodes that dive deeper into the backgrounds of key characters. It’s optional but recommended for more context. - Legend of the Galactic Heroes: Die Neue These (Remake)
This is the modern remake of the original series. You can watch it after or before the OVA series depending on your preference. It brings updated visuals while staying true to the story.
Cowboy Bebop is often considered one of the best anime of all time, blending space adventure, action, and thought-provoking themes. It’s a cyberpunk cowboy story that follows a group of bounty hunters (also known as “Cowboys”) aboard the iconic Cowboy Bebop ship, the Bebop. If you’re a fan of gripping, mature stories, this 26-episode series, also known as one of the best adult anime, should be at the top of your list.
The Story of Cowboy Bebop
Set in a dystopian future, the story follows the Cowboy Bebop characters, including the laid-back Spike Spiegel, the intelligent but eccentric Faye Valentine, tech genius Ed, and even a cowboy corgi named Ein. The crew faces off against criminals, rival bounty hunters, and a powerful crime syndicate led by Spike’s former partner, Vicious. Cowboy Bebop blends space Western vibes with cyberpunk aesthetic, making it one of the best anime series of all time. With its unforgettable soundtrack, smooth storytelling, and brilliant characters, it stands out as a true 90s classic. And trust me—stick to the anime and steer clear of the live-action remake. If you’re wondering about the “See you space cowboy meaning,” it’s a phrase that ties in with the bittersweet tone of the series and its emotional finale.
Themes and Impact
The anime tackles themes of loneliness, existentialism, and the search for purpose, making it one of the best 90s anime. It explores what it means to live with the past, with each of the team Cowboy characters haunted by their histories. Fans also love the jazz-inspired soundtrack by Yoko Kanno and the series’ sleek, noir-style aesthetic, a hallmark of cyberpunk cowboy narratives.
Where to Watch Cowboy Bebop?
If you’re interested in watching Cowboy Bebop streaming, it’s available on major platforms like Netflix, Hulu, and Crunchyroll. Its IMDB rating is an impressive 8.9, further cementing its place as one of the best anime series ever created.
Beyond the Cowboy Bebop episodes, there’s also a Cowboy Bebop manga and a Cowboy Bebop movie that expands on the series. If you’re looking for an 18+ anime with depth, action, and style, Cowboy Bebop fits the bill.
13. Kurau: Phantom Memory
Kurau: Phantom Memory is a must-watch for anyone who loves emotional stories with thrilling sci-fi action. It is an underrated 2004 anime that blends sci-fi with emotional depth, creating a unique story that resonates with fans of futuristic worlds and human connections.
The anime blends heartwarming bonds with exciting futuristic adventures. It is in the year 2100, where people have settled on the Moon. A study is being done there to look into new types of energy. Amami Kurau is the daughter of the head scientist in this project. On her 12th birthday, she goes to the lab with her dad to see the tests. There is a problem, and two lightning bolts hit Kurau. Her dad is shocked to find out that his daughter is no longer his daughter. Instead, two incredibly powerful energy beings have taken over her body. The story follows the journey of Kurau, a girl gifted with incredible powers after the mysterious accident. Her journey is filled with suspense, as she searches for the lost piece of her soul in a world that is afraid of her.
Story Overview
The story revolves around Kurau, a young girl who, during a lab experiment gone wrong, is fused with an alien life form known as Rynax. This gives her extraordinary abilities, but it also makes her a target. As she navigates life with her newfound powers, she searches for her missing “pair,” the other half of the Rynax entity. The show explores Kurau’s journey, her bond with her “pair” Christmas, and her fight for survival in a society that fears her.
Themes and Cyberpunk Elements
Kurau: Phantom Memory explores themes of identity, loneliness, and what it means to be human. Its cyberpunk setting is packed with futuristic technology, a powerful government, and a divided society—all hallmarks of the genre. It delves into the consequences of human experimentation, echoing classic cyberpunk tales about technological advancement and its ethical dilemmas.
Where to Watch Kurau: Phantom Memory?
You can find Kurau: Phantom Memory streaming on popular platforms like Funimation and Crunchyroll. It’s an anime that you shouldn’t miss if you’re looking for something with heart, depth, and a touch of sci-fi action. It has a solid IMDb rating of 7.2/10, reflecting its well-deserved place among quality anime series.
14. Levius
“Levius” is a cyberpunk anime set in a futuristic world where humans have advanced with cybernetic enhancements. The story follows Levius Cromwell, a young fighter who enters the world of mechanical martial arts. After losing his parents during a war, Levius channels his grief into boxing, using his cybernetic arm to compete in brutal matches. His journey is one of resilience, growth, and uncovering the dark secrets of his world.
It is set in a world that is still rebuilding itself after the destruction of war. Furthermore, the fighters in this world have been improved by computers where they fight in brutal arenas for fame, money, or life.
The story takes place in the Era of Rebirth in the 1800s, where a young boxer is motivated to move up in the dangerous sport. In the narrative, Levius wants to win, but not for fame. He wants to win so he can stay living. The anime has fierce fight scenes with a mix of strategy and nonstop action.
Themes Explored in Levius
Levius explores themes such as trauma, loss, and human enhancement. It delves deep into the consequences of war, the struggle for survival, and how technology can both aid and dehumanize. As a boxing anime on Netflix, it offers more than just action, blending emotion with intense combat scenes.
Where to Watch Levius?
You can stream “Levius” exclusively on Netflix. Fans are eagerly awaiting the announcement of Levius Season 2, which is anticipated to continue Levius’s journey. With an IMDb rating of 7.1/10, Levius has garnered praise for its animation, emotional depth, and gripping fights. It has even been compared to other boxing shows on Netflix like “Megalo Box.”
Levius Manga and Additional Media
If you want to dive deeper into the story, the Levius manga offers more context and depth. For fans who prefer reading, the manga delivers an equally gripping experience.
CASSHERN SINS is a thrilling cyberpunk anime that takes place in a dystopian future where the world is decaying, and humanity is on the verge of extinction. The story follows Casshern, a mysterious, immortal warrior, who is blamed for bringing destruction to the world. His journey is filled with battles, self-discovery, and the search for redemption as he tries to uncover the truth about himself and his role in this crumbling world.
Story Overview
Casshern Sins is an anime created by Madhouse.In a dark future, Earth has been destroyed, leaving nothing but a barren wasteland. People are no longer alive. The only people left are intelligent robots that were once made to live forever. But the promise of living forever was broken when a robot named Luna died. This started the Ruin, a decay that makes their bodies rust and break down beyond repair. Now, these robots hold on to a dying hope: the story that says they can live forever again if they eat one called Casshern.
This is something Casshern does not know, though. He doesn’t remember who he is or why he’s here. He only knows that he is being chased by robots who refuse to accept their fate. Casshern is scared to death everywhere he goes in the broken world. He can’t help but wonder: what is his real goal?
Where to watch Casshern Sins?
The anime has a slow, reflective pace, filled with moments of stillness and deep philosophical dialogue. It is a reboot of the 1970s anime series “Casshern”. It is a story about confronting death, survival, and the search for meaning in a world where everything is falling apart. The anime is available to watch on Crunchyroll and has an IMDB rating of 7/10.