The Hidden Gems: Uncovering Netflix's Overlooked Anime Series That Demand Your Attention

Netflix offers a variety of popular anime for streaming, but there are lesser-known titles that often go unnoticed. While Crunchyroll and HIDIVE are well-known platforms for anime, Netflix stands out as one of the best options. It not only provides access to timeless classics like Cowboy Bebop and One Piece, but also offers original series and movies that have become incredibly popular, such as Aggretsuko and Cyberpunk: Edgerunners. These shows have solidified Netflix's reputation as a source for unique and engaging stories.

However, many fans may be unaware that Netflix houses hidden gems among its more famous anime selections. Alongside the well-known titles, there are lesser-known shows that don't receive the recognition they deserve. These shows may have a dedicated fan base, but they often go unnoticed when compared to mainstream favorites, despite having equally compelling storytelling and character development.

10 Kakegurui

Yumeko Jabami, a new student at Hyakkaou Private Academy, finds herself enthralled by the school's hierarchical system based on gambling. Determined to challenge the student government and add excitement to her school life, Yumeko embraces her love for gambling.

However, things quickly spiral out of control as bets involve body parts, futures, and even students' lives. To maintain their status, nearly every member of the Student Council resorts to cheating, resulting in intriguing and often senseless tactics that showcase their determination to win.

Regrettably, despite its captivating storyline, Kakegurui remains incomplete after five years since its second season, leaving fans eagerly awaiting a sign of its third installment. Its spinoff, Kakegurui Twin, also failed to gain significant attention, rendering this franchise highly underrated.

9 Bee and Puppycat

Bee and Puppycat, originally a webseries on YouTube produced by Frederator, is classified as an anime on Netflix, which may initially seem confusing. However, this classification is justified due to the involvement of OLM, the studio responsible for Pokémon, in the animation and production of the series.

Describing Bee and Puppycat as a cozy show would be the most accurate portrayal of this underrated series. The use of color and animation creates a soothing and calming atmosphere as Bee and her companion Puppycat embark on space adventures while taking up odd jobs to pay their rent. While there is a central plot, it takes a backseat to the tranquil and relaxing essence of the show. Anime fans looking for a series to unwind with after a long day will find this to be the perfect choice.

8 Romantic Killer

This romcom, Romantic Killer, went largely unnoticed by most Netflix users upon its release in 2022. It tells the story of Anzu Hoshino, a video game enthusiast who avoids romantic relationships. However, everything changes when a love fairy named Riri enters her life and manipulates her surroundings, forcing her into a dating simulator and taking away her passion for gaming.

What makes this series stand out is how it defies the typical isekai rules by bringing the other world to Anzu instead. This unique twist adds a compelling element to the romcom, captivating the audience from start to finish. Riri's mischievous interventions lead Anzu to confront potential suitors, resulting in hilarious moments that will leave viewers in stitches. As the story progresses, Anzu's character undergoes personal growth, endearing herself to the audience and allowing them to discover more about her.

7 Words Bubble Up Like Soda Pop

Directed by Kyōhei Ishiguro, known for Your Lie in April, this 2021 film follows the story of a young boy and girl who form a deep connection during an eventful summer. Both struggling with their own insecurities, Kouichi uses poetry as an outlet for his emotions while Yuki hides her buckteeth during livestreams.

As their bond strengthens, their friendship evolves into something more, bringing out the best in each other. With stunning animation, this heartwarming slice of life romance beautifully captures the essence of summer, resonating with teenage viewers and delivering a powerful message about overcoming insecurities and embracing one's true self.

6 High-Rise Invasion

For action-packed entertainment on Netflix, look no further than High-Rise Invasion. This 2021 anime takes viewers on a thrilling journey as a group of people find themselves trapped in a strange world, with towering buildings and merciless killers after them.

To survive, they must not only fight back but also uncover the secrets of this mysterious realm and understand why they were brought here. With its captivating storyline and constant excitement, High-Rise Invasion keeps viewers hooked throughout its 12-episode duration. While it may include some moments that cater to certain fan bases and elicit eye-rolls from others, the overall execution of this thrilling series ensures an exhilarating viewing experience.

5 The Orbital Children

Unbeknownst to many, this Netflix miniseries, which originally debuted in Japan as a two-part film, made its quiet entrance in 2022. Set on a satellite encircling Earth, the show chronicles a group of children who endure the impact of a perplexing comet. Stranded without communication from the adults, their tale of survival unfolds alongside the exploration of the station's history and the cataclysmic comet.

This series not only captivates with its concise duration, making it an ideal choice for an afternoon viewing, but also entices viewers with its space-based survival narrative. It is astounding how a story laden with such immense potential has flown so stealthily under the radar, making it worthy of a watch.

4 My Happy Marriage

One of Netflix's latest series, this fresh interpretation of the Cinderella tale incorporates spiritual powers and enchantment into its well-known narrative. It has gained considerable attention as a must-see anime on the streaming platform, although it seems to be flying under the radar for many.

The captivating portrayal of its characters, both protagonists and antagonists, adds to the appeal of the storyline, and the animation further enhances its overall excellence. My Happy Marriage is a romance series that flawlessly captures every aspect of its concept and merits greater recognition as one of the finest titles in its genre.

3 Vampire in the Garden

The premise of this list's entries is especially intriguing in this post-apocalyptic tale. Set in a world engulfed in a war between humans and vampires, the banning of music, due to vampires' sensitive hearing, sets the stage for a captivating story. When a girl named Momo crosses paths with a vampire named Fine, they venture into the realm of music despite facing opposition from both humans and vampires.

Vampire in the Garden presents a visually stunning portrayal and delves into a fresh angle of the "star-crossed lovers" theme. Although their connection is primarily platonic, with subtle indications of something more, their relationship forms a compelling bond between opposing forces united through the very element that divided their families. It is a captivating viewing experience that deserves attention solely for its unique premise, which is enhanced by its exceptional execution.

2 Rilakkuma and Kaoru

This charming series explores familiar themes seen in other adorable, episodic anime like Bananya. The story revolves around a woman named Kaoru who embarks on various adventures with a lovable group of animals led by a bear named Rilakkuma. However, what sets this series apart is its stunning animation.

The use of stop-motion is simply breathtaking, providing Rilakkuma and Kaoru with a unique voice and allowing for creative expressions. This groundbreaking technique opens up new possibilities for its future use in other shows, which can already be anticipated in the upcoming Pokemon Concierge series.

1 Kotaro Lives Alone

Kotaro Lives Alone is perhaps one of the most underrated anime series on Netflix. The show tells the story of Kotaro, a four-year-old child who finds himself living alone in an apartment. Initially, the series may seem like a comedy due to its premise, but it delves into deeper themes of a young child fending for himself, making it one of the most poignant and complex shows on Netflix. Death, grief, and abandonment are subtly woven into the narrative, adding to the emotional weight of Kotaro's situation. It's a series that has been unjustly overlooked and deserves to be added to everyone's watch list.

Of course, these are just a handful of the anime available on Netflix. The platform offers a vast collection of titles, and there may be many hidden gems waiting to be discovered among the more popular shows and movies. It's worth taking a chance on these ten underrated Netflix anime, as they prove that sometimes the most exceptional things are those that don't receive the recognition they deserve.