A science fiction anime that stirs the imagination with themes such as the future world, space, and unknown technology. There are many works that depict powerful action, detailed worldviews, and the relationship between science and humans, and are supported by a wide range of people. However, since there are so many works, some people may be confused about which one to watch first.
So this time, we've picked out some recommended science fiction anime. We will introduce a wide range of works, from standard popular works to hidden masterpieces.
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table of contents
- SF anime recommendations
SF anime recommendations
Parasite Say’s Maxim – Madhouse
Broadcast in 2014, total 24 episodes
The sci-fi anime “Parasyte Sei's Maxim'' raises questions about the coexistence of humans and parasites. Parasites are quietly infiltrating human society, posing a threat to everyday life. The composition centers on the perspective of a high school student and depicts the conflict between self and other, reason and instinct. Recommended for those looking for science fiction suspense with lots to think about.
A mysterious creature called Migi suddenly becomes parasitic on the right hand of Shinichi Izumi, a high school student who was living an ordinary life. Although he remained conscious because his head was not taken over, his life changed forever. Gradually, they become involved in attacks and incidents by other parasites. Shinichi faces the change in himself while being forced to choose between running away or fighting. What will he protect and what will he lose…?
This film is impressive in its production, which quietly questions the boundaries between life and death and the state of being human. Another key point is the production that quietly questions the way we should be as humans. If you're looking for a story that combines a hard science fiction theme with psychological depictions, check it out.
Arpeggio of Blue Steel -Ars Nova- – SANZIGEN
Broadcast in 2013, total 12 episodes
“Arpeggio of Blue Steel -Ars Nova-'' is set in a future where humanity has lost control of the seas, and depicts a battle against a group of mysterious ships called the Fog Fleet. In a world where shipping has been cut off by an unidentified fleet called the Fog Fleet, you rely on your tactics and wisdom to find a way out. Recommended for those who want to enjoy tactical tactics.
Due to the sudden appearance of the Fog Fleet, sea traffic on Earth has been cut off and connections between nations have been severed. Gunzo Chihaya, a cadet stranded in Japan, escapes from Yokosuka with the submarine I-401, which was supposed to belong to the fog, and its mental model Iona. While taking on a top-secret mission to deliver important supplies to the United States, a fierce battle with other fleets of fog unfolds. Will they be able to complete their mission?
This work is appealing in that it uses 3DCG to produce warship battles and depicts the inner fluctuations of AI learning emotions in parallel. The way the will emerges as the line between enemy and ally becomes blurred adds depth to the story. If you are looking for a work that explores the relationships between characters from a tactical science fiction perspective, please check it out.
STEINS;GATE – WHITE FOX
Broadcast in 2011, total 24 episodes
“STEINS;GATE'' is a combination of time science fiction and youth drama. Based in a small circle in Akihabara, young people will experience the possibility of “communication reaching the past'' through random experiments. A story where friendships and choices overlap, using the idea of world lines as a clue. Recommended for those who want to enjoy stories that depict scientific elements and human relationships.
Rintaro Okabe, who is based in Akihabara, is working on prototypes with his friends at the Future Gadget Research Institute. Eventually, due to the modification of the microwave oven, the phenomenon of
The highlights are the accumulation of consequences brought about by the alteration of emails, and the progression from the lightheartedness of the beginning to the tension. The accumulation of small experiments expands the situation step by step, and clues are uncovered at key points. If you're looking for an anime that will draw you deeper into the second half, check it out.
A Certain Scientific Railgun – JCSTAFF
Broadcast in 2009: 1st season: 24 episodes in total / 2nd season: 24 episodes in total / 3rd season: 25 episodes in total
“A Certain Scientific Railgun'' is set in “Academy City,'' where science has developed, and depicts the daily lives and incidents of people with abilities. Even though it is surrounded by large-scale scientific institutions, it has an impressive structure in which individual justice and conflict intersect. A good mix of school episodes and battles, with a structure that highlights the accumulation of friendship and trust. Recommended for those who want to enjoy school action with ability motifs.
Mikoto Misaka, a junior high school student living in Academy City, is a level 5 person with the nickname “Railgun'' who can freely manipulate electricity. While living in a dormitory, he and his best friend Kuroko Shirai were responsible for maintaining public order as a disciplinary committee member, but they began to notice the shadows of mysterious incidents occurring in the city. As the plan gradually emerges and Mikoto's past intertwine, she is forced to make a decision…?
The appeal of this work is that it carefully depicts the sense of distance and trust between people within the elements of urban function and supernatural powers. The depiction of battles is powerful, and at the same time, the perspective of the girls' growth and worries shines through. This is a recommended science fiction anime centered around science and bonds.
Kaiju No. 8 – Production IG
Broadcast in 2024, 1st season: 12 episodes in total / 2nd season: 11 episodes in total
The science fiction anime “Kaiju No. 8'' depicts people risking their lives to face a world where monsters suddenly appear in everyday life. Centering on the training and conflicts of those who aspire to become combatants, the story revolves around monster disasters and personal determination. Recommended for those who are attracted to powerful battles and the human relationships within organizations.
Kafka, who is engaged in daily recovery work, is encouraged by his childhood friend's goal and decides to change his path to becoming a member of the team. However, something strange happens to him, and he goes to the exams and actual battles while harboring a secret. As you and your new friends take on the mission of your unit, the frequency and scale of monster appearances increases, and the weight of your decisions becomes heavier. How far will he go to protect what he wants to protect?
In addition to a structure that maintains a balance between action and drama, the protagonist's transformed appearance and human conflicts bring tension to the story. It has a good tempo that takes advantage of the momentum of the original work, and the growth of the characters is clearly depicted. Recommended for those looking for a series that combines monster action and human drama.
Tengen Toppa Gurren Lagann – Gainax
Broadcast in 2007, total 27 episodes
Tengen Toppa Gurren Lagann is a robot science fiction anime that begins in a world locked underground. The boys' journey to escape from their daily lives and reach the surface world soon unfolds into a battle that stakes the future of humanity as a whole. It is characterized by a performance full of momentum and a development that clashes with straightforward beliefs. Recommended for those looking for heat and excitement.
Simon, a boy whose daily chore is digging holes, dreams of living above ground with his older brother Kamina. One day, using the excavated drill-shaped key and the mysterious machine “Lagan'', he decides to fight against Gunmen who suddenly appear. With the help of Yoko, a girl who has become his friend, Simon and his friends finally break through to the surface. But beyond that, even harsher trials await…?
This work's scale changes with each episode. The developments that exceeded viewers' expectations one after another captivated many fans. The characters' beliefs are clearly reflected in the dialogue and direction, and the action doesn't lose momentum down to the smallest detail. If you're looking for an anime that lets you enjoy hot group dramas and robot battles all at once, check it out.
Dr.STONE – TMS Entertainment
Broadcast in 2019: 1st season: 24 episodes in total / 2nd season: 11 episodes in total / 3rd season: 22 episodes in total / 4th season: 24 episodes
“Dr.STONE'' is a story about using the power of science to rebuild a world where civilization has disappeared due to petrification. Senku Ishigami, a young genius, builds everything from making tools to the foundations of society with his friends, and carves a path with his knowledge. Check it out if you like science and craft elements.
Senku Ishigami wakes up several thousand years after humanity on Earth is suddenly covered in stone, and is reunited with his best friend Taiki. He promoted a “Science Kingdom'' and began a plan to recreate fire, chemicals, metals, etc. from scratch. As he gathers friends, he stabilizes his life and takes steps to uncover the distant cause. Will the first step to regain the lost civilization be successful…?
This work is attractive because it carefully follows the stages of mining, refining, and prototyping, and the more tools you have, the more challenges you can tackle. The key points are the light music and well-paced editing. Check it out if you're looking for an adventure in which you move forward with wisdom and cooperation.
86―Eighty Six― – A-1 Pictures
Broadcast in 2021, 1st season: 11 episodes in total / 2nd season: 12 episodes in total
“86'' is a science fiction anime in which soldiers whose existence has been erased continue to fight behind the scenes of a war involving unmanned weapons. The film depicts how “nameless people” survive on the front lines under the deception of the Republic, which ostensibly promises to fight without sacrifice. Recommended for those looking for a near-future war drama that questions social structures such as discrimination and division.
A republic where only silver-haired citizens are protected. There, people called “Eighty-Six'' were put in charge of operating weapons while their existence was denied. Lena, the new commander, learns about the reality of the troops risking their lives in the field, and deepens their relationships through communications. What kind of future will they find in the cold yet fierce battlefield…?
This work is appealing for its realistic portrayal of battlefields and the depiction of human relationships that quietly build up. The contrast between an inorganic system and the will to resist it is impressively drawn, and the restrained production highlights the contours of emotion. Recommended for those looking for a science fiction anime that combines tactical depictions and human drama.
Code Geass Lelouch of the Rebellion – Sunrise
Broadcast in 2006, 1st season: 25 episodes in total / 2nd season: 25 episodes in total
“Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion'' depicts the battle of a young man wavering between power and faith. Set in Japan ruled by the Holy Britannian Empire, the young boy Lelouch gains the “power of absolute obedience” and begins to act as the masked rebel Zero. The multi-layered development that interweaves politics, tactics, and psychological warfare is appealing. Recommended for those who want to enjoy complex human relationships and the continuity of their development.
After an accident, Lelouch meets a mysterious girl, CC, and is given the ability “Geas'', which allows him to force orders on others. Using that power, she decides to carve out a future for her younger sister Nunnally, while destroying her former homeland. His plan accelerates as he involves various people through repeated conflicts and cooperation. What path will he choose between ideal and reality…?
This work has a structure that continues to overturn the expectations of the viewers, with a series of detailed exchanges of strategies and developments full of surprises. The key point is the story, which is a dense interweaving of mecha action, strategic drama, and personal conflict. Recommended for those looking for a robot science fiction anime that combines intrigue and drama.
PSYCHO-PASS – Production IG
Broadcast in 2012: 1st season: 22 episodes in total / 2nd season: 11 episodes in total / 3rd season: 8 episodes in total
“PSYCHO-PASS'' is a work based on the surveillance society of the near future. The story depicts the process by which members of the Public Security Bureau deal with incidents under the Sibyl System, which quantifies people's mental states. Settings such as crime coefficient and
Newly appointed Tsunemori Akane is assigned to the Criminal Investigation Division and heads to the initial response with enforcement officers. Eventually, she comes face-to-face with the reality that even latent criminal tendencies are judged. The existence of thinkers, the organization's policies, and the pasts of her friends come to light during the investigation. What answer does Akane find after her wavering judgment…?
This work is attractive for its detailed world setting and psychological depiction that deepens through dialogue. In addition to the tension of the images, the music and dialogue are also sharp, and the profound theme is carefully brought to light. If you're looking for a science fiction anime that overlaps the conflict between ideology and reality, check it out.
Mobile Suit Gundam – Sunrise
Broadcast in 1979, 43 episodes
The origin of the real robot anime that depicts the growth of a young boy against the backdrop of the war between the Principality of Zeon and the Earth Federation. Directed by Yoshiyuki Tomino, this is a monumental work that laid the foundation for the entire Gundam series, which was later expanded into a movie trilogy.
In the year 0079 of the Universal Century, the Zeon army invades the frontier colony “Side 7'' after acquiring information about the development of a new mobile suit by the Federation Forces. As war spreads within the colony, the daily life of civilian boy Amuro Ray changes completely.
While trying to escape, Amuro obtains a manual for the new mobile suit Gundam that his father was involved in developing. Although he was an amateur, he immediately boarded the plane and took control of the controls…
A masterpiece that depicts the misery of war and a realistic human drama head-on, and even though viewer ratings were low at the time of its broadcast, it gained explosive popularity in rebroadcasts. Recommended for those who want to experience the real history of anime.
The Super Dimension Fortress Macross – Tatsunoko Productions
Broadcast in 1982, total 36 episodes
A masterpiece that laid the foundation for Japanese science fiction anime, combining robots, romance, and music. It has spawned a theatrical version and numerous sequel series, and has continued to be popular for over 40 years.
In 1999 AD, a mysterious space battleship crashes on Earth. Humanity spent 10 years repairing it and named it Macross. On the day of the space launch ceremony in 2009, stunt pilot Teru Ichijo happened to meet a girl named Rin Minmei who had boarded Macross.
In the midst of this, Macross's automatic defense system malfunctions and attacks the Zentraedi fleet, which is approaching from space. Caught up in a sudden all-out battle, Teru tries to survive by piloting Valkyrie in the chaos, but…
The unique combination of battles, romance, and idols has been praised as innovative, and has many fans both domestically and internationally. Recommended for those who want to watch a masterpiece of science fiction animation, where you can simultaneously enjoy an epic interstellar war and the coming of age of young people.
Cyber Coil – Madhouse
Broadcast in 2007, total 26 episodes
A science fiction juvenile anime set in the near future where “cyber glasses” have become popular among children, and depicts a girl's mysterious summer. This is a completely original work written, directed, and written by Mitsuo Iso, and won the Japan Media Arts Festival Animation Division Grand Prize.
The main character, Yasako, Yuko Okonogi, moves to Daikoku City before the last summer vacation of elementary school. Shortly after arriving, her younger sister Kyoko chases a mysterious cyber creature and gets separated along with her cyber pet Densuke.
While searching for Densuke, Yasako encounters a creepy being called “Illegal'' lurking in the cyberspace. While he still doesn't understand the rules of the cyber world or his friends, he meets a mysterious girl named Yuko Amasawa…
It is a masterpiece that has been highly praised for its unique cyber world setting and science fiction depiction from a child's perspective, and still has a strong fan following. Recommended for those who like sci-fi works and nostalgic anime that carefully depict augmented reality and children's adventures and friendships.
Macross F – Satellite
Broadcast in 2008, total 25 episodes
A sci-fi romantic comedy anime celebrating the 25th anniversary of the Macross series, where singing and fighting intersect. Based on the original work by Masaharu Kawamori, a wide range of media mixes were developed including two movie versions, manga, and novels.
2059 AD, the immigrant fleet
However, during the concert, an unknown space life form called Vajra suddenly attacks. Amidst the confusion, Aruto boards the remaining aircraft and begins to intercept in order to protect Ranka…
It has been highly praised for its drama, which intertwines the love triangle between the two heroines surrounding Alto and the epic space war. The way Cheryl and Ranka's songs color the story is also a highlight, and is recommended for those who want to enjoy science fiction, romance, and music.
Neon Genesis Evangelion – Gainax
Broadcast in 1995, total 26 episodes
A sci-fi robot anime directed by Hideaki Anno that depicts a battle between humanity and a mysterious enemy, the Apostle. As an innovative work that combines psychological depiction and philosophical themes, it has been developed in a wide range of media, including theatrical versions and new series.
The Apostles suddenly attack the Third New Tokyo City. A 14-year-old boy, Shinji Ikari, is called by his father, Gendo, and ordered to board the first Evangelion, a humanoid general-purpose battle weapon.
Shinji was sent to the battlefield without any piloting experience or preparation. The story of his inner conflict and growth begins as he confronts the “Apostle'' even though he is hurt.
The style that meticulously depicts the delicate psychology of a young boy resonates with many viewers, and it is still passed down as a masterpiece in anime history. Recommended for those looking for deep themes that go beyond the boundaries of robot anime.
Illya’s Sky, UFO’s Summer – Toei Animation
Broadcast in 2005, 6 episodes total
This is an OVA work that has been passed down as a representative work of the “Sekai Kei'' science fiction youth love story. Based on the popular Dengeki Bunko novel by Mizuhito Akiyama, it was also developed into a media mix including a sound novel game for the DS.
On the last day of summer vacation, Naoyuki Asaba sneaks into the school pool and meets Kana Irino, a girl with a mysterious metal ball embedded in her wrist. She is supposed to be forbidden from contact with him, so why is she there?
From the next day, Asaba desperately searches for her, but Irino, who appears as a transfer student, harbors a secret. That secret is deeply related to her destiny itself…
It has been highly praised for the depth of the psychological depictions of the characters, and the content is a fusion of the heartrending yet pure brilliance of youth and a large-scale science fiction story. The density of the drama condensed into all 6 episodes is attractive, and is recommended for those who are interested in world-related works.
TIGER & BUNNY – Bandai Namco Pictures
Broadcast in 2011, total 25 episodes
An original anime that realistically depicts a hero defending a city while competing for points while supporting corporate sponsors. After the broadcast, two theatrical versions were released, and a second season was also produced, making it a popular series that has been expanded into a wide range of media.
The stage is Sternbilt, a futuristic city where people with special abilities called “NEXT'' coexist. The heroes' activities will be broadcast live on the TV program
Wild Tiger, a veteran hero whose popularity is declining, is forced to team up with Barnaby, a talented but self-centered rookie when his company merges. The highlight is the change in the relationship between the two, from being friends with each other to forming a duo.
Kotetsu's humane character, who continues to protect citizens despite being ridiculed as a “destroyer of justice'', was supported by many viewers. In addition to being a classic buddy story, it carefully depicts the behind-the-scenes aspects of the hero industry and the conflicts with family members, making it a recommended work.
Cyberpunk: Edge Runners – CD PROJEKT RED / TRIGGER
Broadcast in 2022, 10 episodes total
A cyberpunk anime depicting the life of a boy who pursues the path of an outlaw, set in a huge city where poverty and inequality swirl. An original story set in CD PROJEKT RED's game world, it vividly depicts Night City, a decadent futuristic city where human body modification technology is commonplace.
The main character, David, is a high school student who lives in a rundown apartment. Although she attended a prestigious school to fulfill the dreams of her overworked mother, she was unable to find a place for herself in a society where there was a huge gap between rich and poor.
One day, something happens that changes your life forever. Cornered, David implants a time-manipulating implant (Sandevistan) into his body and chooses to live as a mercenary, the Edge Runners.
Immediately after its release, the game attracted attention all over the world and became wildly popular, significantly increasing the number of players of the original game. The combination of TRIGGER's dynamic action drawings and a story that approaches the importance of life is recommended not only for those who like cyberpunk works but also for those looking for a solid youth drama.
World Trigger – Toei Animation
Broadcast in 2014: 1st season: 73 episodes in total / 2nd season: 12 episodes in total / 3rd season: 14 episodes in total
This is a battle anime based on the science fiction action manga of the same name by Daisuke Ashihara, depicting the battle between humanity and invaders from another dimension. It has been highly praised for its detailed tactical descriptions and group drama featuring unique characters.
A “Gate'' suddenly appears in Mikado City, which has a population of 280,000 people, and “Nearworlders'', who are no match for Earth's weapons, invade the city. Then a mysterious organization called Border appears and uses its own technology to successfully defeat them.
Four years later, Yuma Kukan transfers into the class of Osamu Mikumo, a boy who belongs to Border. However, Yuma reveals only to Osamu that he is a Neighborhood Citizen…
The highlight is the battle of wits that takes advantage of team cooperation, and the group drama style in which many characters play an active role is also an attractive feature. Recommended for those who like strategic battle depictions or those who are looking for a work with many unique characters.
Ghost in the Shell STAND ALONE COMPLEX – Production IG
Broadcast in 2002, total 26 episodes
A cyberpunk science fiction anime based on the manga of the same name by Masamune Shirow. This is an ambitious work in which director Kenji Kamiyama has created a unique worldview, set in a near future where the human body has become increasingly computerized and prosthetic.
At night, at a high-end restaurant, an incident occurs in which a hacked android geisha holds a group of foreign ministers hostage. Public Security Division 9 (Ghost in the Shell) led by Motoko Kusanagi will be dispatched.
From the first episode, Motoko's solo infiltration using optical camouflage, the team members' cooperation in suppression operations, and sharp teamwork explode. Although the case is solved, there is a conspiracy lurking behind the scene…
It has been highly praised for its deep theme, which questions human consciousness and identity as cyber networks and the real world intersect. Recommended for those who want to experience hard social science fiction.
A message from a writer
The appeal of science fiction anime is that even though it is set in an unrealistic world, it still asks questions that are relevant to the present day. His works vary in style, including works that emphasize action and quiet stories depicting the inner lives of humans. If you are watching for the first time, we recommend starting with the works with fewer episodes. Please use this article as a reference to find the science fiction anime that suits you.