Unforgettable Cyberpunk Anime: 10 Must-Watch Masterpieces

Enter the world of cyberpunk anime, where futuristic landscapes teem with advanced technology, cyborgs, hackers, and the power struggle between common criminals and elite computer programmers. These gripping series delve into deep questions about the intersection of humanity and machines.

Originating as a subgenre of science fiction in the 1980s, cyberpunk literature warned of the perils of unchecked technological progress. Works such as William Gibson’s Neuromancer and Philip K. Dick’s Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep? examined themes of artificial intelligence, virtual reality, genetic manipulation, and the control of society by large corporations.

The themes and ideas quickly found their way into manga, anime, and live-action Japanese films, each adding its own unique twist to the genre. Below, we'll take a look at some of the top cyberpunk anime series that immerse us in futuristic settings.

Note: This article represents the author's perspective and is not presented in any specific ranking.

Cyberworlds unleashed: 10 must-watch cyberpunk anime

1. Akira

Akira, an iconic cyberpunk anime, is a must-see for fans of the genre. Released in 1988, the film is set in Neo-Tokyo in 2019 and portrays a dystopian city plagued by political unrest, anti-government demonstrations, and gang clashes.

The movie revolves around Shotaro Kaneda, a biker gang leader whose world gets turned upside down when his friend Tetsuo gains powerful telekinetic abilities after a motorcycle accident. Akira's striking animation and thought-provoking themes introduced Western audiences to the cyberpunk genre, and its impact on science fiction was significant. The film explores the risks of unchecked power and technology at a rapid pace, building up to a memorable and thrilling climax.

2. Ghost in the Shell

Ghost in the Shell (Image via Production I.G)

Ghost in the Shell, a complex cyberpunk anime, follows Major Motoko Kusanagi, a cyborg agent in search of a hacker known as the Puppet Master in mid-21st century Japan. The 1995 film delves into the concept of humanity in a society where many people have cybernetic enhancements. Directed by Mamoru Oshii, the movie was praised for its visual innovation, genre satire, and profound themes. The franchise includes a manga, a TV series, video games, and a live-action film, but the original movie is the best way to enter this influential cyberpunk universe.

3. Serial Experiments Lain

Serial Experiments Lain (Image via Triangle Staff)

Serial Experiments Lain explores themes of identity, consciousness, and perception within the context of cutting-edge communication technology. The series centers around Lain Iwakura, a socially isolated 14-year-old student who becomes fixated on entering the virtual realm of the Wired after receiving a message from a deceased classmate claiming that God resides within cyberspace.

4. Bubblegum Crisis

In 1998, Ryūtarō Nakamura directed Lain, which introduced a unique retro aesthetic that strongly resonates with future internet subcultures. The innovative visuals, fragmented storyline, and blending of reality, fantasy, and science fiction make this cyberpunk anime perfect for viewers who appreciate challenging, genre-bending works.

Bubblegum Crisis (Image via AIC)

Bubblegum Crisis presents a female-focused cyberpunk tale with a mix of mecha action, cyborg chaos, and compelling characters. Taking place in 2032 Tokyo, this 1987 series showcases four young women in robotic power suits fighting against dangerous rogue Boomer robots.

Blending the mecha and magical girl genres with cyberpunk tropes, Bubblegum Crisis is packed with energy and attracts viewers who appreciated Power Rangers or Totally Spies. Despite the lighthearted name, it explores meaningful themes related to corporate greed versus public good in an entertaining manner, thanks to its charismatic leads. This classic cyberpunk anime introduced some of the first action heroines to the medium.

5. Ergo Proxy

Ergo Proxy (Image via Manglobe)

Ergo Proxy is a 2006 anime series that delves into the realm of experimental psychological thriller. Set in a post-apocalyptic Earth, the story revolves around the struggle for coexistence between humans and AutoReivs, androids, within domed cities after an ecological disaster. The series follows Investigator Re-l Mayer and the enigmatic Ergo Proxy as they embark on a quest to unveil the truth about the Proxies, immortal beings revered as gods.

6. Appleseed

Ergo Proxy blends philosophy, science fiction, and noir to keep viewers engaged and questioning, all while showcasing stunning imagery and intense moments that rival the likes of Akira or Ghost in the Shell. For those who appreciate intricate narratives and compelling characters over pure action, Ergo Proxy offers a uniquely surreal cyberpunk experience.

Looking for more mecha action in cyberpunk anime? Appleseed, directed by Shinji Aramaki in 2004, offers a compelling post-World War III vision focused on the tensions between humans and bioroids (artificial humans). Set in the utopian city of Olympus, the CGI film follows war veteran Deunan and her bioroid partner Briareos as they strive to maintain peace.

Visually striking and thought-provoking, Appleseed delves into the clash between progress and preservation with two captivating main characters. The franchise, known for Aramaki's intricate mechanical designs, has amassed a dedicated fan base. Additionally, the film serves as an ideal introduction to cyberpunk anime and 3D animation for newcomers.

7. Texhnolyze

Texhnolyze (Image via Madhouse)

Texhnolyze is a deeply nihilistic addition to the list, portraying the underground city of Lux, where rival factions and Texhnolyzed fighters reign. Reminiscent of gritty noir films, this 2003 anime follows the story of Ichise, a solemn prize fighter who, after losing limbs, finds new purpose when he is equipped with prosthetics.

8. Armitage III

This cyberpunk anime series is visually distinctive and offers a bleak vision of technology's impact on humanity. While the gratuitous violence and dark tone may not be appealing to everyone, fans of dystopian stories will find an enthralling portrayal of society pushed to its limits in the name of survival. The memorable ending sequence alone makes it worth watching.

Armitage III (Image via AIC)

Armitage III, a beloved cyberpunk anime of the 90s, continues to be a highly influential franchise in the genre. It is primarily recognized for its stunning gynoids (female robots) that captivate both the audience and the characters within the series.

Transported to a futuristic Mars, where human-android tensions are on the rise, this four-part original video animation follows the resilient police officer Ross Syllabus as he partners with an amnesic gynoid named Naomi Armitage to solve a series of brutal murders.

Debuting in 1995, Armitage III captivates with its intricate Martian universe, stimulating themes, and intense action overseen by director Hiroyuki Ochi. While later installments of this cyberpunk anime series failed to recapture the initial allure, they did push the genre in new directions.

9. Psycho-Pass

Psycho-Pass (Image via Production I.G)

If you're looking for a mix of cyberpunk and crime drama, Psycho-Pass seamlessly combines elements of science fiction with police storytelling. Set in a futuristic Japan, the 2012 anime follows a police force using a special system called Psycho-Pass to track and apprehend potential criminals.

10. Cyberpunk: Edgerunners

Naoyoshi Shiotani and Katsuyuki Motohiro direct this stunningly animated cyberpunk anime series, which unfolds like a meticulously crafted thriller. The show delves into thought-provoking themes surrounding criminal justice systems and fate, all brought to life by a memorable ensemble of complex characters that captivate audiences throughout multiple seasons.

Cyberpunk: Edgerunners (Image via Studio Trigger)

Netflix's Cyberpunk: Edgerunners has taken the cyberpunk anime world by storm, captivating viewers with its immersive portrayal of the dystopian future featured in the popular video game Cyberpunk 2077.

The 2022 series takes place in Night City, a massive metropolis filled with violence, crime, and extensive body enhancements. It follows the journey of David Martinez, a street kid determined to become an edge runner, a mercenary outlaw known as a cyberpunk.

Directed by Hiroyuki Imaishi and featuring music from Akira Yamaoka, Edgerunners stands out with its polished animation, compelling characters, and intense action. Despite its bleak portrayal of technology and humanity, the anime ultimately finds optimism in the power of human connection.

For many, Cyberpunk: Edgerunners ranks as the crown jewel of recent cyberpunk anime thanks to its emotional core, anchored by David and his friends.

Conclusion

This list highlights the enduring appeal of cyberpunk anime, showcasing its intellectual stimulation, stunning visual artistry, and profound themes. From timeless favorites to new discoveries, it offers an enriching experience for both seasoned enthusiasts and those just beginning their exploration.

Are you a fan of experimental masterpieces like Serial Experiments Lain, popular franchises like Ghost in the Shell, or recent award-winning series like Psycho-Pass? This category has something exhilarating for all tastes. Just be cautious not to get too lost in the mesmerizing dark visions of the future presented in Cyberpunk, as many devoted fans have.

Editor's P/S

As a cyberpunk enthusiast, I am thrilled to share my thoughts on these unforgettable cyberpunk anime masterpieces. Each title on this list offers a unique perspective on the genre, exploring themes of advanced technology, cyborgs, hackers, corruption, and the struggle between societal outcasts and elite programmers.

"Akira," released in 1988, remains an iconic cyberpunk anime that captivates audiences with its stunning animation, thought-provoking themes, and intense action sequences. Set in a dystopian Neo-Tokyo, the film delves into the dangers of unchecked technological progress and the consequences of granting unchecked power to individuals. The story revolves around Shotaro Kaneda and his friend Tetsuo, whose newfound telekinetic abilities disrupt the fragile balance of their world. "Akira" serves as a cautionary tale about the perils of rapid technological advancement and the potential for humanity's downfall.

Another standout title on this list is "Ghost in the Shell," a complex and philosophical cyberpunk anime that raises profound questions about identity, consciousness, and the nature of humanity in a world where cybernetic enhancements are commonplace. The film follows Major Motoko Kusanagi, a cyborg agent tasked with hunting down a mysterious hacker known as the Puppet Master. Through its visually stunning animation and intricate storytelling, "Ghost in the Shell" explores the boundaries between the physical and the digital, blurring the lines between reality and illusion.