7 Video Game Anime Adaptations You Should Watch Next (& Where to Find Them)

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I’ve noticed a real shift in how video game adaptations are viewed. They used to get a lot of criticism, but lately, they’ve been surprisingly good! It seems like the people who originally made the games are more involved in the anime versions now, and there’s a lot more effort and support going into making them successful. If you’re curious, there are actually several examples of video games that have become fantastic anime shows.

I’ve been looking into anime based on video games lately, and there’s a huge selection! You’ve got a lot of newer shows to choose from, but don’t forget about some older classics too. I’ve put together a list of seven video game anime adaptations that I think are worth checking out.

7). Sonic X

Where to Watch: Hulu, Disney+, Pluto TV, Tubi, Netflix, Prime Video

While Sonic the Hedgehog is now a movie star with a successful series of films and another on the way, he’s always been popular on television. Over the years, there have been many excellent animated series based on the Sonic games, but Sonic X remains a fan favorite. This anime series offered a more action-packed take on Sonic and his friends, particularly those from the newer games, and it still holds up incredibly well today. Plus, it has a fantastic opening theme song that really gets you excited!

6). Monster Rancher

Where to Watch: Tubi, Pluto TV, Prime Video

Let’s talk about older video game adaptations – Monster Rancher is a fantastic example. The series, where you collect and raise monsters, hasn’t had a new installment or anime release in over two decades. It got overshadowed by popular titles like Pokémon and Digimon that came out around the same time. Monster Rancher actually offered a more complex storyline and featured really interesting monster designs that weren’t necessarily geared towards being cute and marketable. That might be why it’s not as well-remembered, but it’s worth revisiting to see what made it special.

5). Pokémon Concierge

Where to Watch: Netflix

When discussing monster-collecting games, the Pokémon anime is a must-mention. While any of the main Pokémon anime series are great for fans, Pokémon Concierge offers a fresh, more laid-back experience, similar to Pokémon Pokopia. This short, stop-motion anime follows a hotel concierge who cares for Pokémon guests. It’s incredibly charming and arguably the cutest show in the entire Pokémon franchise – you might have even missed it!

4). Steins;Gate

Where to Watch: Crunchyroll

Many fans consider Steins;Gate to be one of the greatest anime series ever made. Interestingly, it started as a visual novel game – the second in the Science Adventure series – which featured a time travel plot with various different endings. The anime skillfully combines the best parts of those different endings into a single, satisfying, and complete story. It remains incredibly impactful even today, so it’s definitely worth watching if you haven’t already.

3). Devil May Cry

Where to Watch: Netflix

Netflix is increasingly adapting video game series into anime, and Devil May Cry is a recent example. The anime, now in its second season and created by Adi Shankar, takes some liberties with the original Capcom games. However, this results in a fresh and exciting experience, especially with its 2000s nu-metal soundtrack. Devil May Cry is a really enjoyable anime that’s easy to get into, even if you’re not familiar with the games. You don’t need prior knowledge to have fun with it.

2). Castlevania

Where to Watch: Netflix

Shankar played a key role in bringing the popular video game Castlevania to life as a Netflix series. The show, which spans four seasons, centers on the evolving relationship between three characters. What makes it so good is that it’s accessible to viewers even if they’ve never played the games, while still offering plenty for longtime fans with nods to different eras of the Castlevania franchise. It manages to feel both fresh and true to the source material, making it a really standout series.

1). Cyberpunk: Edgerunners

Where to Watch: Netflix

When it comes to anime based on video games, especially those on Netflix, Cyberpunk: Edgerunners is truly exceptional. While inspired by the world of Cyberpunk 2077, it doesn’t simply retell the game’s story. Instead, it crafts a brand new, heartbreaking narrative within that universe. This approach is what makes it so compelling – it’s a complete, self-contained story with satisfying conclusions for all its characters. It’s visually stunning, packed with action, and incredibly stylish. If you only watch one video game anime from this list, make it this one.

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2026-05-17 02:14