Top 10 Sci-Fi Anime Series Streaming on Netflix

Article Overview

Netflix offers a selection of the best science fiction anime, featuring creative concepts and brave characters on journeys that shock and amaze.

Netflix offers a diverse range of sci-fi anime, catering to the preferences of both fans of iconic classics like Neon Genesis Evangelion and those who enjoy newer hits such as A.I.C.O. -Incarnation-. These anime delve into various themes including survival, coming of age, the influence of technology, and the innate resilience of humanity, resulting in captivating and thought-provoking experiences.

Some of the greatest science fiction anime of all time can be streamed on Netflix. From the earliest anime, creators have strived to explore the furthest boundaries of space, time, and technological advancements. Although Netflix's collection only represents a fraction of these works, the ones available are certainly worth exploring.

The finest science fiction anime not only present innovative concepts but also showcase courageous characters who are eager to discover the limits of their world. What they encounter on their journeys is equally astonishing and captivating for the audience. The top science fiction anime on Netflix masterfully blend compelling characters and intricate storytelling with profound social commentary.

10. Neon Genesis Evangelion

Original Anime Series Created By Hideaki Anno & Gainax

In a dystopian future where otherworldly Angels relentlessly attack humanity, Shinji Ikari finds himself trapped in a nightmarish existence. To make matters worse, his absent father, Gendo Ikari, believes that Shinji's ability to pilot a colossal robot known as an EVA is the key to saving humanity. Gendo is the enigmatic leader of NERV, a shadowy organization responsible for creating the Eva - the only weapons capable of defeating the Angels. Alongside fellow child pilots, Shinji must overcome his paralyzing fear and risk his life in the battle against these formidable foes.

Neon Genesis Evangelion is featured on numerous "best of" lists, including best mecha anime, best body horror anime, and best psychological horror. The series gradually delves into its dark and nightmarish themes, exploring concepts of freedom, coming of age, and humanity's will to survive. Moreover, the visuals of the Eva units engaged in battle are simply stunning. For fans seeking a contemporary rendition of the franchise, the four Rebuild of Evangelion films available for streaming on Prime Video are worth watching.

9. Ultraman

Based on the Manga By Eiichi Shimizu & Tomohiro Shimoguchi

Shinjiro Hayata grows up with the knowledge of Ultraman only as a story from the past. However, when aliens threaten Earth once again, Shinjiro's father, Shin, reveals that he was the original Ultraman and that Shinjiro has inherited the ability to become Ultraman himself. Utilizing his unique powers, Shinjiro dons the iconic suit and fights to protect his planet.

Ultraman 2019 is not a remake of the original 1966 anime, but rather an adaptation of its 2011 manga sequel. Currently available on Netflix, it has garnered praise from fans for its strong connection to the beloved source material. With exceptional characters and thrilling action sequences, it rightfully earns its place within the extensive franchise.

8. The Orbital Children

Original Anime Created By Mitsuo Iso

In the distant future, humans inhabit Earth, the Moon, and space stations. When children from both Earth and the Moon cross paths on the Anshin station, an enjoyable and fascinating vacation is anticipated. However, when the station veers off its course due to space debris, the children must unite to endure the chilling expanse of space.

This OVA, consisting of six episodes, was initially released in Japan as a two-part film and is now available on Netflix worldwide. Its creator, Mitsuo Iso, holds a prominent position in the realm of sci-fi anime, having directed Dennoh Coil in 2007 and contributed as a key animator to notable anime productions including The End of Evangelion, Ghost in the Shell, and various Gundam series. The Orbital Children explores profound themes that delve into the inherent fortitude of humanity and the impact technology can have on individuals' lives, for better or worse.

7. A.I.C.O. -Incarnation-

Original Anime Created By Studio Bones

Scientists attempting to create an artificial human inadvertently trigger the Burst, a catastrophic event that spawns a multitude of man-made monsters and renders Kurobe Gorge unsuitable for habitation. Two years later, Aiko Tachibana and a courageous team of explorers embark on a perilous journey to the heart of the Gorge. If successful, Aiko not only has the opportunity to reverse the disaster, but also unravel the enigma surrounding her own origins.

A.I.C.O. -Incarnation- may not receive as much acclaim as some of Studio Bones’ top-rated anime, yet it remains a captivating watch. The intrigue surrounding Aiko and the Burst intertwines flawlessly with the exploration of the boundless potential of this futuristic technology. The plot keeps audiences guessing until the climactic final episodes, a trait shared by many of Netflix's most outstanding science fiction anime.

6. Darwin’s Game

Based on the Manga Created By FLIPFLOPs

Kaname Sudou receives a request from a friend to join a new mobile game without much thought. However, he soon realizes that his friend is already deceased, a victim of the death game that Kaname has unknowingly become a part of. To avoid meeting the same fate, Kaname must quickly learn the art of survival in Darwin's Game.

Although the Darwin's Game manga extends beyond the anime adaptation, the twelve-episode season stands on its own as a thrilling experience. It chronicles Kaname's transformation from a panicked novice to a confident and formidable leader, overseeing his own group of players. The anime delves into various aspects of the game, including formidable bosses, the diverse abilities of different participants, and special events where anyone can rise to prominence. With death games gaining popularity, particularly on platforms like Netflix, Darwin's Game has rightfully earned its place as one of the top science fiction anime series on the streaming giant.

5. Levius

Based on the Manga Created By Haruhisa Nakata

In a top boxing anime, the futuristic sport of Mechanical Martial Arts has emerged from a traumatic war and technological advancements. Fueled by the powerful Agartha Water that fuels their cybernetic enhancements, fighters compete fiercely, often with fatal outcomes. A young survivor named Levius Cromwell has dedicated his life to the sport and will go to great lengths to emerge victorious.

The merging of science fiction and sports creates an unexpectedly thrilling combination in Levius. Adding a touch of steampunk to the mix, this anime excels in heart-pounding action sequences and delving into the world that embraces such a brutal and popular sport. It effectively explores a society that has been scarred by war and continues to be trapped in a cycle of violence and desperation. This compelling social commentary is seamlessly woven into the fabric of science fiction, proving that anime holds a significant place in this genre's legacy.

4. Ghost In The Shell: SAC_2045

Based on the Manga Created By Masamune Shirow

In the year 2045, Major Motoko Kusanagi and her team are engaged in a desperate battle for survival during a worldwide war. Utilizing their impressive skills and advanced cybernetic technology, they confront not only enemy forces but also terrifying robots from the realm of anime. Their fight to survive and maintain their identities requires their utmost efforts.

The original manga by Masamune Shirow, published in 1989, has become an iconic contribution to the cyberpunk genre and science fiction as a whole. Over the years, it has expanded into various adaptations, including this ONA that is set in the universe of the 2002 anime Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex. SAC_2045, along with its upcoming pair of spinoff movies, delves further into the exploration of how the merging of technology and humanity impacts the essence of self.

3. Cyberpunk: Edgerunners

Based on the RPG Series Created By Mike Pondsmith

Survival is the top priority for citizens in the dystopian Night City. David Martinez, equipped with cyberware technology, embraces the life of an edgerunner—a mercenary who defies the law to earn a living. Together with fellow rebels, he wages a daily battle against the corrupt system of Night City and the all-powerful megacorporations that control it.

2. Pacific Rim: The Black

Edgerunners, a prequel to Cyberpunk 2077, is another uniquely entertaining addition to Studio Trigger's impressive body of work. Despite its concise ten-episode format, this series effortlessly delivers on action, character development, and worldbuilding, yielding exceptional outcomes. Even for those unfamiliar with the game, the standalone narrative remains accessible. With its captivating blend of sci-fi and animation, Cyberpunk: Edgerunners deserves recognition as not only one of the top science fiction anime on Netflix but also one of the greatest anime series of all time.

Based on the Film Created By Guillermo del Toro

The Earth is now under the dominion of Kaiju, and the sole defense against these monstrous creatures are the colossal Jaegers and their bonded pilots. Among the countless individuals who endured the loss of their parents in the struggle against these beasts are siblings Hayley and Taylor Travis. With the helm of the mighty Atlas Destroyer under their control, they fearlessly navigate the crumbling world in search of their missing parents.

Guillermo del Toro's 2013 masterpiece, Pacific Rim, is undoubtedly a standout in the realm of modern science fiction cinema. Drawing inspiration from kaiju and mecha anime, Pacific Rim: The Black brilliantly expands upon the film's strengths, showcasing epic Kaiju attacks and thrilling Jaeger battles on an equally colossal scale. For those who found themselves disappointed by the official sequel, Pacific Rim Uprising (2018), diving into this anime series might just offer the satisfaction they've been longing for.

1. Pluto

Based on the Manga Created By Naoki Urasawa

In a society where humans and robots live side by side, Inspector Gesicht, a robotic detective, delves into a series of brutal murders characterized by superhuman strength. The victims, both human and robot, were individuals who held the potential to shape the world for better or worse. As Gesicht strives to unravel the killer's motives and identify their mysterious abilities, he races against time to avoid becoming the next casualty.

Renowned as a top contender for anime of the year, Pluto stands as an outstanding example of a self-contained anime. While based on an arc from the 1950s-60s classic Astro Boy, it captivates viewers through its compelling narrative and suspenseful atmosphere, making it accessible even to those unfamiliar with the source material. Utilizing its premise to convey profound messages regarding the horrors of war and the essence of humanity, Pluto has quickly risen to become Netflix's finest offering in the realm of science fiction anime.

Pluto fans seeking more entertainment can explore Urasawa's Monster, available for streaming on Netflix.

The sci-fi anime selection on Netflix showcases a perfect balance between timeless classics and recent blockbusters. As advances in science and technology proceed relentlessly, anime and other sci-fi media will persist in capturing society's thoughts on these developments and their implications for the human race. Netflix's top science fiction anime exemplify the influential role the medium plays in shaping popular culture's enduring fascination with the genre.

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Editor's P/S

1. As a passionate fan of science fiction anime, I am thrilled to see the genre receiving the attention it deserves on streaming platforms like Netflix. The top 10 sci-fi anime series listed in the article offer a diverse range of stories, themes, and animation styles that cater to fans of all tastes. From the classic Neon Genesis Evangelion to the more recent Ultraman 2019, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

2. What I appreciate most about these anime series is their ability to blend complex and thought-provoking themes with thrilling action and captivating characters. Neon Genesis Evangelion, for instance, explores existential questions about the nature of humanity and the role of technology in our lives, while Ultraman 2019 delves into the themes of heroism and sacrifice. These series are not afraid to tackle challenging topics, and they do so in a way that is both entertaining and thought-provoking.