7 Most Underrated Original Anime Not Based on Manga, Ranked

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Anime based on manga or novels usually get more buzz, but original anime can be incredibly successful too. If an original series has a compelling story and is well-made, it can definitely become a big hit – and there are many examples to prove it.

Popular anime series created directly as anime, such as Code Geass, Puella Magi Madoka Magica, and particularly titles within the Gundam franchise, are major cultural phenomena. However, even well-made original anime often struggle to find a wide audience. This is surprisingly common, even for shows that are already successful, as they frequently don’t receive the recognition they deserve.

7) Train To The End Of The World

EMT Squared’s Train to the End of the World takes place two years after a new 7G cellular network mysteriously transformed Japan into a strange and desolate landscape. Despite the dangerous conditions, Shizuru and her friends embark on a journey by train to Ikebukuro – a place that now feels unreachable – hoping to find their friend, Yoka, who went missing when the 7G network was first activated.

The director of Shirobako brought a charming and visually appealing adventure to life with Train to the End of the World. However, it was released during a very competitive spring 2024 season alongside popular shows like Mushoku Tensei, Kaiju No. 8, and Demon Slayer, which likely explains why it didn’t get as much attention.

6) Akudama Drive

The anime Akudama Drive from Studio Pierrot is set in a futuristic, crime-ridden Japan. It follows an average woman who is wrongly identified as a skilled criminal and forced to join a dangerous heist with a group of notorious criminals. To survive, she must convincingly become the criminal they believe her to be.

Akudama Drive is a visually stunning and wildly entertaining action series, clearly influenced by Quentin Tarantino. It’s perfect if you’re looking for something over-the-top and exciting with a surprising amount of heart. Sadly, it didn’t get the attention it deserved, likely because the creator, Kazutaka Kodaka, wasn’t as well-known at the time after the popularity of his previous work, Danganronpa, had waned.

5) Samurai Flamenco

The anime Samurai Flamenco follows Masayoshi Hazama, a model who leads a double life as the superhero Samurai Flamenco. Though he doesn’t have any superpowers or gadgets, Masayoshi slowly establishes himself as a real hero, which is crucial as his battles become increasingly strange and unbelievable.

Samurai Flamenco aimed to be a funny spoof of superhero and tokusatsu shows, but it wasn’t very well-written, which explains why people have such strong opinions about it. Despite its flaws, the show’s over-the-top silliness makes it an enjoyable, if somewhat embarrassing, anime to watch.

4) Little Witch Academia

Studio Trigger’s Little Witch Academia follows Atsuko “Akko” Kagari, a girl who desperately wants to be a witch like her hero, Shiny Chariot. Even though Akko struggles with magic, she hopes to prove her abilities by learning to use Shiny Chariot’s powerful wand, the Shiny Rod.

Despite being an earlier project for Studio Trigger, Little Witch Academia remains a standout anime thanks to its charming characters and unique visuals. While the story’s pacing isn’t perfect, it’s still highly recommended for any fan of Studio Trigger’s work.

3) Mobile Fighter G Gundam

In Sunrise’s Mobile Fighter G Gundam, the world’s countries settle their disputes through a unique competition called the Gundam Fight, where pilots battle using giant robots called Mobile Suits. Domon Kasshu fights for Neo-Japan, determined to win the tournament, locate his estranged brother Kyoji, and discover the secrets surrounding the enigmatic Dark Gundam.

Compared to other Gundam shows, G Gundam is truly unique with its focus on martial arts and often silly humor, which makes it a somewhat controversial series. However, its heartfelt story makes it a standout – many fans consider it the best Gundam anime ever, and it’s a must-watch for anyone interested in the franchise.

2) Eureka Seven

The anime Eureka Seven follows Renton Thurston, a young boy who feels stuck in a dull routine and longs for adventure with the rebellious Gekkostate. His dream comes true when Eureka, a member of the group, and her massive robot literally fall into his life. However, Renton soon discovers that life with Gekkostate isn’t quite the exciting experience he imagined.

Eureka Seven is a visually striking mecha anime that offers a fresh perspective on the genre, making it a consistently enjoyable watch. While later sequels and reboots haven’t been as well-received, the original series still holds up as a fantastic experience.

1) Carole & Tuesday

Bones Film’s Carole & Tuesday tells the story of Carole Stanley, an orphan, and Tuesday Simmons, a runaway, who become friends on Mars because of their shared passion for music. Together, they form a musical duo determined to make it big, and despite facing challenges and growing political unrest, they might just succeed.

While Carole & Tuesday has some problems with its pacing and story, and being a Netflix exclusive has limited its visibility, it’s still arguably Shinichiro Watanabe’s best anime. This makes it a truly underrated original series, standing out from the rest.

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2025-11-25 18:19