The Ultimate Collection of Mind-Blowing Sci-Fi Anime on Crunchyroll

Crunchyroll is a top destination for streaming anime online, offering a wide selection of science fiction anime that includes some of the best ever created. Whether you're a fan of anime or science fiction, Crunchyroll's library is a must-visit, featuring both retro classics and currently airing series. From iconic titles like Astro Boy and Testujin 28, science fiction anime has been a part of the medium for a long time. With its extensive collection, Crunchyroll allows audiences to easily explore the genre's rich history. Discovering the best examples of sci-fi anime on Crunchyroll provides viewers with a fantastic overview of this captivating genre.

10 Code Geass

9 Dr. Stone

In a Japan conquered by Britannia, an alternative version of the British Empire based in the Americas, Code Geass tells the story of Prince Lelouch, a cunning and insightful Britannia prince. Lelouch possesses a supernatural power called Geass, which grants him the ability to control anyone he makes eye contact with. He harbors deep resentment towards Britannia for its brutal subjugation of Japan and carries a personal vendetta against the Britannian royal family, as the intrigues of the court resulted in his mother's demise. Determined to free Japan from Britannia's rule, Lelouch utilizes his Geass powers to manipulate both the Britannian occupiers and the Japanese resistance, all in pursuit of his ultimate objectives. The intricate web of Lelouch's schemes and manipulations is captivating to witness, with the political and emotional turmoil being enhanced by intense mech battles.

In a strange occurrence, the world as we know it comes to an end. A blinding burst of light turns every human being into a statue, leaving only silence in its wake. After nearly 4000 years, two individuals named Senku and Taiju break free from their petrified state, and find themselves amidst a world devoid of human presence. Nature has reclaimed what was once a bustling civilization. Driven by their unwavering faith in scientific progress, Senku and Taiju embark on a mission to rescue the remaining survivors and rebuild society from scratch. However, their journey is not without obstacles, as they encounter other struggling souls along the way, while clashing with opposing factions who challenge their vision for the new world.

8 Assassination Classroom

7 Fist of the North Star

Assassination Classroom is an extraordinary and unconventional series. It revolves around Koro-sensei, a peculiar octopus-like creature, who not only blew up the Moon but also took control of a high school classroom. He challenges his students to assassinate him within a year, with the fate of the Earth hanging in the balance. What truly distinguishes Assassination Classroom is its remarkably bizarre and dreamlike humor and artistic style. While consistently embracing dark comedy, the series also delivers moments of genuine drama and emotional depth. It skillfully combines the familiar tropes of a high school slice-of-life series with a refreshingly offbeat visual and narrative approach. Despite the unusual premise of assassination, the bond that grows between Koro-sensei and the students is remarkably strong and heartwarming.

Fist of the North Star can be described as a combination of "Mad Max, Dragon Ball, and a Bruce Lee movie." This 80s creation is set in a post-apocalyptic world, taking place in the imagined future of the 1990s. Even though this particular aspect of the series may not hold up well today, Fist of the North Star and its protagonist are considered iconic representations of the 80s for good reason. The story follows the journey of a wandering martial artist as he searches for his kidnapped fiancée and defends innocent villagers from marauding bandits. Eventually, the narrative intensifies, culminating in a confrontation with a merciless, power-hungry warlord who aims to dominate and rebuild the ravaged world. Kenshiro's unique combat technique involves striking his adversaries' pressure points, causing them to explode moments later, allowing him to deliver his memorable catchphrase: "You are already dead."

6 Edens Zero

From Fairy Tail creator Hiro Mashima, Edens Zero inevitably draws comparisons due to similar character designs and archetypes, including the presence of Fairy Tail's Happy among the main characters. However, approaching Edens Zero as simply "Fairy Tail in space" would be misguided. While the characters may seem familiar, Edens Zero's plot diverges significantly, exploring darker and more mature subject matter that can be jarring for those transitioning from Fairy Tail. Despite their initial resemblance to Fairy Tail's cast, the characters of Edens Zero possess their own unique qualities, and the series delights with intriguing world-building intricacies.

5 Akira

Renowned for its popularity and critical acclaim, Akira stands as one of the most widely recognized anime films, especially within North America. Set in the deteriorating metropolis of Neo-Tokyo, conceived after the enigmatic obliteration of Tokyo, this cyberpunk masterpiece delves into the realms of street gangs, resistant movements against an oppressive government, and extraordinary psychic children. Its undeniable allure emanates from its dark and somber nature, accentuated by its infamous transformation sequences that rely heavily on grotesque and explicit mutations. Additionally, the film's soundtrack deserves special mention for its distinctive musical style, which leaves an indelible impression on the audience.

4 Captain Harlock

3 Cowboy Bebop

Captain Harlock is an iconic space opera series that originated in the late 70s through a manga. Over the years, numerous sequels, spin-offs, and remakes have expanded the universe of this cult classic. The story revolves around the charismatic and idealistic Captain Harlock, who rebels against the decadence and apathy plaguing his world. Despite being set in the late 2900s, the series cleverly incorporates the nostalgic allure of the Golden Age of Piracy. The theme song resonates with traditional naval tunes, while Captain Harlock himself dons attire reminiscent of the 1600s, complete with an eye patch. Notably, his ship proudly displays the Skull and Crossbones pirate flag, defying logic as it gracefully flutters through the airless expanse of space. This unique fusion of the spirit of classic Space Opera and the timeless tales of pirates creates an extraordinary and captivating narrative.

Cowboy Bebop, an anime series that first aired in English in 2001, is adored by fans across North America and has garnered widespread acclaim. With its distinctive visual and musical style, this space western tale about a group of bounty hunters boasts an unforgettable ensemble. Spike, Jet, Faye, and Ed have all attained iconic status within the realm of anime, as each member of the main cast is given a notable moment to shine. The individual episodes of Cowboy Bebop, as well as its overarching story arc, are exceptionally well-crafted. The animation is awe-inspiring, and every aspect of the production showcases a mastery of execution. While its popularity can be attributed in part to being the introduction to anime for many viewers, Cowboy Bebop unquestionably earned its iconic status through its own exceptional merits.

2 Mobile Suit Gundam

1 Dragon Ball Z

The original Mobile Suit Gundam holds immense influence and is considered one of the most influential series ever created. The RX-78-2 Gundam, featured in the original series, has become an iconic symbol within the realm of anime mechs. This pioneering series laid a strong foundation, both conceptually and thematically, for future Gundam series and also left a lasting impact on other mecha franchises. Mobile Suit Gundam delivers a compelling narrative of warfare, offering profound insights, while incorporating intense and awe-inspiring mech combat. It stands as a prime example of the distinctive anime style prevalent in the late 70s and early 80s. Alongside the iconic original series, Crunchyroll also offers a wide range of later entries in this franchise.

Dragon Ball, one of the most popular anime franchises ever, reached its pinnacle with Dragon Ball Z according to many devoted fans. Although the series had always incorporated elements of science fiction, it was in Z that it fully embraced this genre. The revelation of Goku's true origins as an alien, the appearance of the conquering Saiyans, the epic battles on the planet Namek against Frieza's intergalactic empire, and the androids' emergence as primary antagonists in the middle of the series were all key components of the science fiction transformation.

The action in the series intensified and became more impressive as its scope expanded. Goku's transformation into Super Saiyan during his battle with Freiza on Namek left a lasting impression on fans. In fact, when a poll was conducted to determine Goku's best quotes, four out of the top ten quotes were from this particular fight. Watching anime has become incredibly convenient, thanks to Crunchyroll. This platform offers a vast collection of anime series, including numerous classic science fiction shows. Fans of the sci-fi genre now have the perfect chance to explore the top sci-fi anime available on Crunchyroll.