Embark on a thrilling voyage through the vibrant world of anime in this comprehensive guide! From heart-racing battles to the depths of human emotion, anime encompasses a myriad of experiences that transcend boundaries, cultures, and generations. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or a curious newcomer, this guide illuminates the enthralling worlds of renowned titles like One Piece, Naruto, and the futuristic Cyberpunk: Edgerunners, among others.
These captivating series offer more than just entertainment; they deliver profound life lessons, jaw-dropping visual artistry, and narratives that stir the deepest corners of our hearts. So buckle up, and prepare for an immersive journey through the mesmerizing best animes on Netflix!
Table of Contents
Yakitori: Soldiers of Misfortune – A Tale of Cosmic Warfare
Yakitori: Soldiers of Misfortune is an animated spectacle spun from the web of Carlo Zen’s much-acclaimed science fiction novel, The Saga of Tanya the Evil. This epic adventure revolves around a cadre of five determined soldiers, deeply entrenched in an interstellar conflict of grand proportions. The charm of this series lies not just in its intricately detailed characters, but also in its masterfully crafted, adrenaline-pumping narrative filled with thrilling action and profound thematic depth.
It paints a vivid picture of young warriors handpicked to join the prestigious Pan-Star System Trade Federation Security Council. Their daunting task? To defend against the Barkans – an intellectual race of mice that, having grown weary of the Federation’s constant meddling, are rebelling against its control.
The story is a poignant narrative of survival against the odds, wrapped in the high stakes of battlefield drama and the labyrinthine maneuvers of wartime politics. Spread over a span of six episodes, this Orwellian space odyssey is an absolute must-watch for anyone who relishes a tantalizing mix of intergalactic politics and intense action sequences.
Tekken: Bloodline – An Odyssey of Revenge
Tekken: Bloodline represents an admirably faithful adaptation of the legendary Tekken 3 video game storyline. This gripping saga traces the tumultuous journey of fifteen-year-old Jin Kazama, brought to life by the compelling voice acting of Kaiji Tang, as he seeks vengeance for his mother’s death. You don’t need to be a fan of the original game to appreciate this captivating six-episode story arc.
What stands out in this adaptation is its splendid character design and structural blueprint, which harks back to the game’s immersive gameplay. However, the series’ real charm lies in the gradual revelation of Jin’s tangled family history and his ensuing struggle to honor his mother’s memory while wrestling with the trajectory of his own destiny. This rollercoaster of a story is teeming with mystery, intrigue, and the perfect measure of electrifying combat scenes to keep viewers perpetually on their toes.
Jojo’s Bizarre Adventure – A Fantastical Family Saga
Jojo’s Bizarre Adventure is exactly what it promises – an outlandishly bizarre ride! Focused on the incredible Joestar family, blessed with supernatural abilities, the series tracks their marvelously bewitching escapades. It’s not merely the content of the series that’s unique but also its creative presentation. Jojo’s Bizarre Adventure skillfully blends distinctive artistic styles and innovative narrative techniques to create a surreal world.
The series seamlessly weaves together compelling elements of science fiction, like psychic abilities, with extraordinary supernatural phenomena. Each episode is delightfully peppered with clever nods to contemporary western pop culture, music, and fashion. The English dub of the series boasts an impressive line-up of acclaimed voice actors, including the likes of Matthew Mercer (known for The Legend of Vox Machina), David Vincent, and Richard Epcar, adding an extra layer of charm to this extraordinary adventure.
Carole & Tuesday – A Harmonious Tale of Aspiration
Brought to life under the watchful direction of Shinichirō Watanabe, famed for Cowboy Bebop, and meticulously crafted by the notable anime studio Bones, celebrated for My Hero Academia, Carole & Tuesday is an animated series brimming with soulful intensity. The series offers an emotionally-charged narrative that vividly portrays Watanabe’s ongoing fascination with music.
Set against the backdrop of a Mars that has been colonized and terraformed, this captivating series spins the tale of two adolescent girls, Tuesday Simmons and Carole Stanley. Coming from extremely different walks of life, these two girls are brought together by their shared aspiration of making a name for themselves in the music world. As a harmonious singer-songwriter duo, they traverse the rugged path towards musical stardom, grappling with the hardships and riding the wave of exhilarating triumphs inherent in their budding careers.
In the process, they foster personal growth, bring out the best in each other, and impact those in their orbit in meaningful ways. Blessed with the creative input of Cowboy Bebop’s scriptwriter Keiko Nobumoto, and graced with original music from prominent artists such as Thundercat, Flying Lotus, and Denzel Curry, Carole & Tuesday stands as a dazzling musical anime. Its heart lies within the beats of its inspiring songs, and it’s a series that bubbles over with raw emotion and authentic characters.
Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood – An Epic Tale of Brotherhood and Alchemy
Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood is a captivating anime series chronicling the extraordinary journey of two brothers on a quest to resurrect their deceased mother. This riveting narrative transports you alongside the brothers – both skilled alchemists – as they journey towards the mythical Philosopher’s Stone.
Similar to other manga-inspired anime, Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood constructs a universe of its own, inhabited by a host of intriguing characters and shrouded by enigmatic adversaries. Revered as one of the greatest anime series ever produced, Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood’s compelling narrative and intricate world-building render it a must-watch for anyone seeking a genuinely engrossing story.
Spriggan – An Exciting, Action-Packed Journey
Spriggan, an animated adaptation of the manga penned by Hiroshi Takashige and Ryōji Minagawa, makes its debut with an action-dense six-episode run that leaves viewers on the edge of their seats. The narrative follows the thrilling exploits of Yu Ominae, a teenage super soldier assigned the crucial task of locating and protecting powerful relics.
Amidst a ruthless race involving various military and private entities, all seeking to exploit these relics as potential weapons, Yu must fend off relentless opposition to fulfill his obligation. Staying faithful to its original source, this anime series successfully employs an open-ended narrative style, peppered with charismatic characters, a dash of humor, a fair amount of justified violence, and explosive action sequences.
This globe-spanning adventure, while laying the groundwork for future quests, takes full advantage of its character arcs to create an engaging start. It’s a fantastic introduction for newcomers and a delightful adaptation for the manga’s loyal fans and previous movie’s admirers.
Dorohedoro – A Journey through an Uncanny Reality
Drawing inspiration from Q Hayashida’s engrossing dark fantasy sci-fi manga, Dorohedoro introduces viewers to the peculiar life of Caiman, a man with a reptilian head suffering from memory loss. He resides in a dystopian city named the Hole, a gloomy place where humans fall victim to the ruthless whims of sorcerers hailing from a different realm.
Alongside his trusted ally Nikaido, Caiman embarks on a mission to hunt these sorcerers, hoping to discover the one responsible for his transformation. In his distinctive method of dispensing justice, he devours the sorcerers’ heads, enabling a mysterious entity residing at the back of his throat to determine their destiny. And believe it or not, this is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the series’ eccentricities.
Laden with a cocktail of dark humor, visceral violence, and a strangely heartwarming narrative, Dorohedoro holds the distinction of being one of the most oddly delightful, uniquely crafted, and remarkably engrossing anime to be featured on Netflix since its 2020 debut.
Lookism – A Thought-Provoking Examination of Society’s Aesthetics
Lookism, a compelling animated series derived from Park Tae-joon’s original South Korean webtoon, follows the unusual life of a high school student blessed (or cursed) with the ability to toggle between two starkly different physical forms — one society deems attractive and the other considered less so.
With the voice talents of actors Shim Kyu-hyuck, Han Shin, and Ryu Seung-gone, Lookism delves into the critical issues surrounding societal norms, superficial beauty standards, and the universal growing pains experienced by adolescents, irrespective of their outward appearances. This show promotes a crucial message about inner beauty, bullying, and the importance of self-love, making Lookism a universally relatable series for viewers of all backgrounds.
Bee and Puppycat – A Quirky Exploration of Alternate Realities
While some might argue that Bee and Puppycat, being a Western animation, doesn’t fit the traditional definition of anime, it embodies all the attributes of classic adorable anime series such as Hamtaro or Aggretsuko. In this wonderfully odd series, Netflix takes the popular web creation and presents it in an accessible format for a broader audience.
The narrative revolves around Bee, voiced by the series creator Natasha Allegri, who stumbles upon a peculiar cat-dog hybrid creature named Puppycat. This unlikely duo embarks on an adventurous ride to an alternate dimension, where Bee assumes the role of an inter-dimensional temp worker, tackling outlandish assignments.
Despite the surreal environment of Fishbowl Space, the personal journeys undertaken by Bee and the enigmatic Puppycat resonate on a deeply human level. Filled with distinctive, lovable characters and whimsical scenarios, Bee and Puppycat is a treasure trove of quirky quotes and fun moments, ready to be shared with friends.
Record of Ragnarok – The Chronicles of Endurance
Adapted from the gripping manga created by Shinya Umemura and Takumi Fukui, Record of Ragnarok is a thrilling anime series masterfully directed by Masao Ōkubo. This series delves into a realm of dark fantasy, presenting an invigorating blend of heroic adventures and detailed martial arts choreography. At its core, Record of Ragnarok narrates the epic tale of a colossal combat tournament held to determine the fate of mankind.
This battle-laden spectacle boasts a diverse cast of characters, encompassing legendary historical figures and a multitude of deities extracted from various mythologies, all locked in a desperate struggle to prevent the annihilation of humanity. Offering a talented voice ensemble including Miyuki Sawashiro, Tomoyo Kurosawa, and Tomokazu Seki, Record of Ragnarok caters to diverse language preferences with both subtitled and dubbed versions available for viewer enjoyment.
Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba – A Tale of Resilience and Determination
Derived from the celebrated manga series by Koyoharu Gotouge, Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba has rapidly ascended to prominence, establishing itself as a shōnen anime juggernaut alongside renowned franchises like My Hero Academia and Naruto. The series transports viewers to Japan’s Taishō era, narrating the emotionally charged story of Tanjiro Kamado.
Tanjiro is a compassionate young boy who commits to the demanding path of becoming a demon slayer, driven by his determination to cure his sister, Nezuko. She has been transformed into a half-demon hybrid following a brutal assault that tragically claimed the lives of their entire family.
Featuring mesmerizing action sequences, a seamless fusion of traditional and 3D-modeled animation styles, and a profoundly moving narrative exploring themes of familial bonds and resilience against overwhelming adversity, Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba has earned its place as one of today’s most admired anime series. With the highly anticipated third season on the horizon, it is essential for any anime fan to immerse themselves in the world of Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba.
Beastars – Navigating through Intricate Relationships
Beastars presents an intriguing narrative, tracing the tumultuous journey of a wolf caught in a complex emotional quandary. He is drawn towards a rabbit but is apprehensive about his underlying predatory instincts that might endanger her. The series could be viewed as a metaphor for the awkward transition through puberty or a critical examination of the prevalence of sexual violence in modern educational institutions. It might also depict the generational disconnect arising from the swift evolution of societal norms. However, trying to pinpoint a precise thematic interpretation might detract from the show’s essence.
The true magic of Beastars unfurls when viewers embrace the series’ unique internal logic without attempting to draw direct parallels with the real world. In this sense, Beastars bears resemblances to timeless narratives like Romeo and Juliet — a passionate, yet contentious tale of lovers separated by societal constraints. Like the enduring works of Shakespeare, Beastars can be moulded and interpreted in numerous ways, reflecting the viewer’s perspective and experiences.
Vinland Saga – Epic Tales
When it comes to shonen anime, every fan has their own personal top pick from the multitude of narratives that chronicle a young protagonist’s journey to adulthood. Vinland Saga is one such entrancing tale that follows the footsteps of Thorfinn as he matures while driven by a deep thirst for revenge, instigated by the brutal murder of his father when he was just a tender six-year-old. The animation is notably vibrant and rich in detail, transporting viewers into a vividly realized Middle Ages setting.
Vinland Saga artfully weaves a cautionary tale about the harrowing dangers of war, all while portraying a young boy’s growth against the backdrop of relentless conflict. It serves up a potent mix of violent action, moral quandaries, and a quest for justice that is truly captivating. Those who haven’t embarked on this journey with Thorfinn are missing out on an unforgettable anime experience.
Neon Genesis Evangelion – The Monumental Legacy
![Neon Genesis Evangelion | Official Trailer [HD] | Netflix](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/13nSISwxrY4/hqdefault.jpg "Best Animes on Netflix: Top 20 Must-Watch Series 14")
Neon Genesis Evangelion, helmed by director Hideaki Anno, is a monumental mecha drama that is universally acknowledged as a cornerstone of modern anime. Ever since its initial airing in 1995, it has drawn a devoted following, earning such an esteemed status that a series of four films were created to reimagine its expansive universe.
Set in the aftermath of a global catastrophe, the original series unravels around Shinji Ikari, a 14-year-old boy who is summoned by his distant father to command a massive bio-weapon, an Evangelion, to battle a mysterious group of beings known as “Angels.” Alongside fellow pilots Asuka Langley Soryu and Rei Ayanami, and under the watch of his guardian and commanding officer Misato Katsuragi, Shinji must navigate the challenges of adolescence while fighting to protect humanity from the Angels.
However, the series goes far beyond this basic premise. Neon Genesis Evangelion masterfully combines psychological insight and prophetic narrative elements, constantly subverting viewers’ expectations to present an unforgettable tale. Its unconventional finale is one of the most discussed and creatively inspiring endings in television history.
Great Pretender – Immerse in a Vibrant World
Crafted by the creative mind of Hiro Kaburagi, known for his work on Speed Grapher, and produced by Wit Studio, which brought us masterpieces like Vinland Saga and Attack on Titan, Great Pretender is a Netflix original anime that masterfully blends comedy-drama with thrilling action.
The series spins the intriguing yarn of Makoto Edamura, a small-time Japanese swindler who becomes a protege of the charming and audacious heist genius, Laurent Theirry. The plot follows this fearless team of thieves as they crisscross through picturesque locations worldwide, tricking the most notorious criminals out of their ill-gotten wealth. Apart from the exhilarating escapades of the central cast, Great Pretender offers a visually stunning experience with each location beautifully illustrated, drawing inspiration from the works of British artist Brian Cook.
Complementing the stunning visuals are the striking character designs by Yoshiyuki Sadamoto, known for Neon Genesis Evangelion, and a lively jazz soundtrack composed by Yutaka Yamada. With its spectacular visual feast and gripping storyline, Great Pretender is an absolute delight to watch unfold.
Monster – Journey into a Dark World
Monster is a captivating anime series set against the backdrop of Germany. It follows the intense life of a brain surgeon named Kenzo Tenma, who experiences a drastic turn in his life after making a fateful decision. He chooses to save the life of a young boy over the town’s mayor, a choice that subsequently sets off a whirlwind of events. As a consequence, Tenma finds himself exiled, his medical career spiraling into ruin, and worse yet, he is accused of committing a murder.
The storyline of Monster adeptly interweaves elements of personal relationship drama, professional ambitions, and betrayals. It also presents significant moral and ethical dilemmas in ways that heighten the tension and fuel the momentum from one episode to the next. When the moment of truth arrives, accompanied by astonishing revelations and plot twists, you will find yourself completely engrossed.
For those who relish horror elements that amplify the intensity of a narrative, this adaptation of Naoki Urasawa’s 1994 manga certainly capitalizes on eerie and unnerving encounters between its central characters. This leads to a chilling character examination of a serial killer and a gripping murder mystery. If an intricate psychological thriller packed with historical depth, profound philosophical themes, intriguing characters, and an exhilarating game of cat-and-mouse captures your interest, then this timeless, globe-trotting classic is a must-watch.
Oni: Thunder God’s Tale – Delve into an Enchanting Tale
If you appreciate the innovative blend of traditional animation techniques with cutting-edge 3D and stop-motion hybrids in anime, Oni: Thunder God’s Tale will captivate you. The anime, based on Emi Tsutsumi’s Onari’s Lullaby, charts the adventure of the free-spirited Onari as she aspires to emulate the heroes of Japanese folklore. In her quest to unearth her innate abilities, Onari undergoes transformative experiences that impart valuable lessons about empathy and connection in a delicately impactful way.
Although the pace of the narrative is leisurely, the substantial 45-minute episodes ensure that plenty of ground is covered, filled with action, fun, and heartfelt moments that offset the occasional slow pace. Despite its origins as a fantastical children’s tale, its vibrant execution makes even the most hard-nosed viewers find themselves cheering for Onari and chuckling at the antics of the quirky gods and monsters she encounters. This heartwarming, family-friendly story, underpinned by consistently breathtaking animation, makes for an excellent mini-series that cleanses the palette.
Naruto Series – Embark on Epic Adventures
The name ‘Naruto’ is well-known, even to those who are not avid anime enthusiasts. Such is the sweeping popularity of this remarkable character. Naruto presents a deeply inspiring narrative about a young boy who dreams of becoming the leader of his village, despite the numerous obstacles that come his way. Naruto has left an indelible mark on its viewers and remains a top recommendation for anime beginners.
As stated earlier, if life seems tough, Naruto has the magical ability to rejuvenate your spirit and realign your life. This motivational tale is incomparable and stands tall among the greatest narratives ever told. Despite being one of the longest anime series on Netflix, its exceptional storytelling and impactful character development make it a worthwhile investment.
One Piece – Embark on an Exhilarating Voyage
One Piece, an enduring shonen anime, takes us on an enthralling maritime adventure with the charismatic Monkey D. Luffy and his adventurous crew, the Straw Hat Pirates. Together, they navigate the vast oceans in search of the legendary treasure, One Piece, aspiring to crown themselves as the reigning kings of the pirates. The anime is an adaptation of Eiichiro Oda’s celebrated manga and packs a powerful punch of adrenaline-fueled action interspersed with moments of laughter.
The captivating narrative of One Piece is brought to life by a diverse ensemble of male and female characters. Each member of the crew adds a unique flavor to the mix, contributing to a camaraderie that breathes life into their shared adventure. This unity and sense of shared purpose imbue the series with an engaging charm that keeps viewers hooked, season after season.
Cyberpunk: Edgerunners – Dive into a Futuristic World
Set against the gritty backdrop of Night City, a realm borrowed from a video game, Cyberpunk: Edgerunners tells the riveting tale of a struggling student named David who finds himself swept up in the world of criminality and bodily enhancements. David’s story is a testament to the struggles of the underprivileged; he attends a prestigious school that his overworked mother struggles to afford. Their socio-economic status situates them at the rock-bottom of society’s hierarchy.
David’s life takes a significant turn when he encounters a mysterious netrunner, a kind of hacker, named Lucy. His association with Lucy leads him to a group of mercenaries, the cyberpunks. David begins to undertake risky jobs, driven by a desperate hope of improving their dire circumstances. This gripping ten-episode series, derived from CD Projekt Red’s Cyberpunk: 2077 and animated by Studio Trigger, is a compelling collision of top-notch animation and insightful social commentary on themes like greed, capitalism, and a deep-seated desire for belonging.
The sci-fi narrative of Cyberpunk: Edgerunners elegantly peels back the layers of a coming-of-age story to reveal a dystopian vista that is breathtakingly beautiful, despite its grim reality. The narrative does not shy away from displaying its bleak and bloody aspects, resulting in a world that’s alluring yet harsh. For fans of intense, audacious, and over-the-top anime that harken back to the edgy 90s in both character design and humor, the 2022 powerhouse Cyberpunk: Edgerunners will undoubtedly resonate with you.
