10 Sci-Fi Anime That Prove the Genre Is Underrated

Science fiction anime and manga aren’t merely focused on futuristic tech and space wars; they delve into the intriguing “what if” scenarios that influence our reality. They ponder questions like: What if artificial intelligence controlled life and death? What if a message to the past could alter destiny? What if humans and machines were indistinguishable? Sci-fi anime explores these themes, taking us into realms where technology dictates fate, humanity merges with machinery, and every decision bears a cost.

I’m utterly captivated by how sci-fi anime challenges my mind! As I follow characters battling oppressive regimes, striving for their personal identities, and pursuing dreams thought to be unattainable, I find myself mirroring their struggles in my own world. If you, too, enjoy science fiction anime that sparks deep thoughts, here’s a list of ten extraordinary series that will linger long after the final credits have faded away.

Steins;Gate

Originally a visual novel, Steins;Gate centers around Rintaro Okabe, who styles himself as a mad scientist, and his friends who stumble upon a method for sending messages to the past. They soon discover that even minor alterations can lead to massive, unforeseen outcomes. This groundbreaking science-fiction anime is renowned for its critical acclaim, seamlessly blending real-world science with speculations about time travel to create an indelible narrative.

The show explores black holes – immense cosmic entities that may lead to temporal paradoxes, and micro black holes – minute distortions capable of altering reality. Instead of perceiving time as a linear progression, it presents world lines, where minor decisions result in divergent futures. Some individuals, such as those with Reading Steiner, can recall past world lines during temporal displacement. Essentially, Steins;Gate poses a thought-provoking query: if we had the power to modify the past, would it genuinely improve our circumstances?

Planetes

2075 finds me amidst the stars, part of an ordinary crew tasked with the vital mission of retrieving hazardous debris drifting in Earth’s orbit. While others bask in the glory of space exploration, I grapple with frustration, ambition, and the unyielding realities of working a low-ranking position in the cosmos. As we navigate financial limitations, corporate ruthlessness, and personal disputes, I can’t help but yearn for more – not just for myself, but for the potential of our team to make a real difference up here.

In contrast to many space tales brimming with grand battles and extraterrestrial beings, I find ‘Planetes’ to be uniquely centered around the subtle perils of space exploration and the individuals who ensure its smooth operation. It meticulously delves into the complexities of zero-gravity navigation and the profound effects of long-term space travel on the human body, demonstrating a genuine commitment to hard science. This dedication to realism sets it apart as one of the most authentic science fiction anime ever produced.

Serial Experiments Lain

A unique science fiction gem, Serial Experiments Lain tells the story of Lain Iwakura, a 14-year-old girl who unexpectedly receives an email from a classmate who has passed away. This leads her to “The Wired,” a massive virtual network. As Lain delves deeper into this digital realm, she experiences bizarre occurrences that challenge the boundaries between physical existence and the virtual world.

Lain’s narrative in Serial Experiments Lain delves into artificial intelligence, spectral digital entities, and the concept that human identity might transcend the need for a physical body. The sci-fi anime’s portrayal of “The Wired” reflects our contemporary internet – it’s faceless, all-encompassing, and has the power to manipulate the events in our perceived reality. Its unconventional storytelling, glitchy aesthetics, and eerie quietness evoke a feeling like a computer virus infiltrating your mind, offering a distinctly immersive viewing experience.

Parasyte: The Maxim

Shinichi Izumi, a high school student, almost becomes a victim of an extraterrestrial invasion by parasitic beings. These creatures penetrate human brains, command their hosts, feed on others, but fail to reach Shinichi’s brain during an attack. Instead, the parasite called Migi becomes attached to his hand, and now they are joined together, needing to find a way to live in harmony as they face lethal dangers.

Delving into the gripping world of “Parasyte,” I found myself captivated by its exploration of alien biology and the ruthless struggle for survival. These parasitic invaders are not just intelligent, but incredibly adaptable, transforming their human hosts into monstrous predators that strike fear into the hearts of all who behold them.

Unlike your typical sci-fi creatures, Migi is driven purely by logic. His inquisitive mind delves deep into the complexities of human emotions and the very essence of life itself, all while residing within a being who fears him. The series masterfully blends these chilling themes with thought-provoking questions, making it an unforgettable experience for any sci-fi anime enthusiast.

Dandadan

In July 2025, the second season of Dandadan is due to be released, taking us on an exhilarating journey where supernatural and sci-fi elements intertwine in the most extraordinary fashion. Our protagonists are Momo, a resilient high schooler with psychic abilities, and Okarun, an alien and occult enthusiast. Initially skeptical of each other’s beliefs regarding the supernatural, they soon find themselves confronted by reality that is both comically and frighteningly at odds with their expectations. Creatures from beyond our world, such as aliens, spirits, and peculiar beings, not only exist but also pose a threat to everyday life.

In the thrilling world of Dandadan, I find myself captivated by a blend of psychic clashes and alien invasions that keep me on my toes! One instant, I’m gripped with fear during a spine-tingling ghost pursuit; the next, I’m enthralled as an ancient space being squares off against an extraordinary exorcist grandmother. But Dandadan is more than just a whirlwind of chaos – it’s a heartfelt tale about friendship, trust, and standing firm for what truly matters, all while grappling with the most bizarre twists in reality!

Psycho-Pass

In the universe of Psycho-Pass, there’s presented the Sibyl System – an advanced AI surveillance network which consistently assesses each citizen’s mental wellbeing. This system assigns a Crime Coefficient, a numerical value predicting an individual’s potential for criminal activity. If this score exceeds acceptable limits, authorities may take action – even resorting to deadly measures – to prevent any future crimes from occurring.

In the depicted universe of Psycho-Pass, law enforcers utilize advanced weapons known as Dominators which adapt their force based on real-time target analysis. These guns can subdue, immobilize, or even annihilate suspects depending on their Crime Coefficient. However, it’s Sibyl who decides who poses a threat, making these enforcers mere agents of its judgement. As we delve deeper into this world, its imperfections become glaringly apparent. Is justice being administered, or is dissent simply suppressed? Inspector Akane Tsunemori embarks on a quest for truth, grappling with the question of whether a crime-free society justifies the loss of individual liberty. If you’re into dystopian sci-fi anime, Psycho-Pass should definitely be on your watch list.

Dennō Coil

In the year 2026, the anime titled Dennō Coil revolves around Augmented Reality (AR). This world is inhabited by individuals who utilize advanced AR glasses called Dennō Megane for daily interaction with digital surroundings. Children engage in games, exploration, and even manipulation of these digital systems using these glasses. The story follows Yuko Okongi, a child with such glasses, as she settles into Daikoku and encounters peculiar creatures, tampered data, and tales about vanished children. Intrigued by the mysteries surrounding augmented reality, Yuko and her companions embark on an adventure to unravel its secrets.

In my view, this animated series stands out as a timeless treasure in the realm of science fiction. Produced well before the advent of smart glasses and augmented reality gaming, it manages to encapsulate the user experience of these technologies with uncanny accuracy. Moreover, it raises ethical questions that remain pertinent today. The cherry on top? It unfolds against the breathtaking backdrop of traditional Japanese landscapes and children embarking on the journey of a lifetime. If you’re seeking a sci-fi anime that feels strikingly real due to its striking similarities with our world, I wholeheartedly recommend giving Dennō Coil a try.

Cowboy Bebop

Cowboy Bebop is a top-notch example of relaxed science fiction anime. In the year 2071, it portrays a future where traveling in space is commonplace but life remains challenging. Crime persists even in the cosmos, and bounty hunters, or “cowboys,” track down these wrongdoers for payment. The narrative revolves around one of these cowboys, Spike Spiegel, as he journeys through space with his diverse group on board the Bebop.

Instead of space travel, iconic catchphrases, and jazz-infused pursuits, Cowboy Bebop delves into themes of loneliness, remorse, and the quest for purpose. Every team member bears a haunting past they can’t escape. In such a vast universe, discovering tranquility or a sense of belonging could prove to be the most challenging mission.

Akira

In the heart of Neo-Tokyo lies a bustling, brightly lit metropolis constructed atop the remnants of a catastrophic nuclear blast. Lawlessness prevails, and authority exerts its control with steel-fisted determination. However, in this city’s underbelly, whispers of rebellion echo ominously. The life of Tetsuo, a rebellious biker, takes an unexpected turn when he encounters a mysterious experiment. This encounter grants him formidable psychic powers that could potentially expose the hidden truths lurking within Neo-Tokyo’s depths.

At its heart, Akira delves into the perils of biotechnology, government research, and unchecked authority. Throughout the series, scientists have been researching extrasensory perception with the aim of triggering the next stage of human evolution. They conducted experiments on individuals like Akira, a child with godlike abilities, to demonstrate that such power could manipulate reality itself. However, the human mind is not designed to contain such strength, and the consequences are devastating. The anime film stands as a powerful reminder of humanity’s ambition and the destructive cycle it can create. Neo-Tokyo finds itself caught between advancement and destruction, and as power becomes uncontrollable, we question if mankind can endure what it has brought forth. If you enjoy introspective series with thrilling action scenes, don’t miss out on this classic sci-fi anime as it makes a comeback.

Ghost in the Shell

Ghost in the Shell presents a future where individuals have direct brain access to the internet. Major Motoko Kusanagi, an advanced cyborg, heads an elite squad that tackles cyber-crimes. However, when a hacker referred to as the Puppet Master starts manipulating memories and controlling others, the cyborg starts pondering over what really defines our identity.

In this futuristic cartoon series, the story delves into a reality where hacking transcends merely pilfering data. Here, hacking is capable of altering identities, influencing free choice, and undermining the concept of self-identity. A malevolent AI named The Puppet Master, who asserts it has life, adds to the mystery. Throughout the narrative, viewers are prompted to ponder if a digital mind can be as authentic as our own. If our thoughts could be manipulated and our physical forms replaced, then what truly defines being human?

2025-03-04 23:04