Anime offers a wide variety of sci-fi series ranging from time travel to interstellar journeys. With such a broad selection, it can be daunting to choose what to watch. Fear not, for this list narrows down the best sci-fi anime of all time for your viewing pleasure.
25. Sword Art Online
What is it about? In the year 2022, thousands of people have been trapped inside a new MMORPG called Sword Art Online (SAO). The plot follows Kazuto “Kirito” Kirigaya and Asuna Yuuki as they make their way through various levels of this virtual video game to escape. Sword Art Online has 100 levels that need to be cleared, and a final boss needs to be defeated so they can be freed.
Why we love it: Exploring themes of courage, friendship, and the dangers of technology, the show blends action, romance, and adventure to keep viewers on the edge of their seats.
24. From the New World
What is it about? Based on the Japanese novel by Yusuke Kishi, the anime revolves around a group of friends who grow up with psychic powers in a new world. We follow our main character, Saki and her friends, Maria, Shun, Satoru and Mamoru, as they begin to uncover their world’s startling history following a strange incident. Living in a tranquil, beautiful village, they attend an academy where everyone learns to hone their powers. From here, the group throw themselves into life-threatening adventures to protect their friends from a world on the brink of collapse.
Why we love it: From the New World (aka Shinsekai Yori) challenges viewers and provokes meaningful discussions about society, power, and ethics. It also contains a lot of psychological drama.
23. Legend of the Galactic Heroes
What is it about? Set in a futuristic world after a century-and-a-half-long stalemate between the Galactic Empire and the Free Planets Alliance, two interstellar superpowers end, we see a new generation of leaders arise. We follow Reinhard von Lohengramm, a military genius who climbs the ranks of the Galactic Empire with the help of his childhood friend, Siegfried Kircheis. Reinhard now has to free his sister against the collapsing Goldenbaum Dynasty while also attempting to unify humanity under one ruler.
Why we love it: Like many sci-fi anime series, Legend of the Galactic Heroes (aka Ginga Eiyuu Densetsu) deals with complex topics like war, politics, and morality. With a 9/10 rating on MyAnimeList, this anime is one of the best sci-fi anime series of all time.
22. Elfen Lied
What is it about? The story follows Lucy, a special breed of human known as Diclonius. Upon escaping from the government facility where she was being experimented on, she suffered a head injury. This left her with a split personality: one sweet and innocent, while the other had a penchant for ruthlessness. She befriends college student Kouta and his cousin Yuka, who takes her in. However, they ultimately get dragged into trouble as government officials are on the hunt for Lucy to recapture her.
Why we love it: This might be a hard watch for some – especially since it contains graphic violence, cruelty and nudity. A review by TheLlama on MyAnimeList says it best: “Some people call it a ‘masterpiece’, people some call it ‘perverted’, some people don’t know what to say, and some call it ‘horrible’. The first is true, the second is an exaggeration, the third is understandable, and the fourth is so wrong.”
21. Ergo Proxy
What is it about? After a global ecological disaster wipes out most of the planet and leaves much of it uninhabitable, people can only survive in special domes. One of the last civilisations on Earth lies in Romdo, where humanoid robots called AutoReives assist humans with their day-to-day lives. The granddaughter of Romdo’s ruler, Re-l Mayer, is sent to investigate when a mysterious virus called Cogito Virus infects the robots and gives them self-awareness.
Why we love it: Stunning visuals. Complex narratives. Gripping mystery. What’s not to love? With unique character designs and animation, this anime is perfect for fans of the sci-fi genre.
20. Erased
What is it about? We follow Satoru Fujinuma, a 29-year-old manga artist who discovers he can travel back in time by a few minutes. He calls the ability ‘Revival’ and uses it to save many lives. When Satoru is wrongly accused, he gets transported 18 years into the past. He tries to use Revival to save a young girl and clear his name in the future.
Why we love it: The main character’s mission to stop bad things from happening again resonates strongly with viewers, making the story feel personal and real.
19. Parasyte: The Maxim
What is it about? The plot follows Shinichi Izumi, a sixteen-year-old high school student, as he falls victim to one of the parasitic aliens who have invaded Earth. They infiltrate human bodies, intending to reach the brain to take control of them. Fortunately for Izumi, the parasite that enters Izumi’s body fails to reach his head and, instead, takes root in his arm. Naming the parasite Migi, the two are forced to co-exist and must work together to defeat parasites trying to eradicate this new threat.
Why we love it: Horror and science fiction blend well in Parasyte: The Maxim. The violence and pain in the story have meaning, shaping the narrative and showing what is or isn’t human. Some have called it a more violent version of Invasion of the Body Snatchers.
18. NieR: Automata Ver1.1a
What is it about? Humanity has moved to the Moon for safety after an alien invasion from creatures known as ‘Machine Lifeforms’. Their last hope is YoRHa soldiers, android robots who will return to post-apocalyptic Earth and defeat the aliens. However, one of the robots, Warrior 2B, begins to uncover the harsh truth behind the invasion and question whether humanity is worth saving at all.
Why we love it: If you enjoyed Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex, Psycho-Pass, or Xenosaga: The Animation, you’ll love NieR: Automata Ver1.1a. We also highly recommend that you play the video game and read the novel to fully experience Yoko Taro’s masterpiece and its beautiful world.
17. Darling in the FranXX
What is it about? Set in a futuristic world, humans now reside in huge fortress cities known as Plantations after giant beasts called Klaxosaurs have almost driven humanity to extinction. The only known weapon that can be effective against these beasts is giant mecha machines called FranXX. Children in the Plantations are raised in boy-girl pairs to pilot these and defeat the beasts, knowing nothing outside of this. One such boy, Hiro, has lost his motivation until he meets a mysterious girl named Zero Two. When her partner is lost in an unexpected attack, she invites Hiro to become her new partner and, unknowingly, gives him a chance for him to redeem himself.
Why we love it: The animation is vibrant and unique, while the story presents fantastic twists on old tropes alongside spectacular character development within an unusual plot.
16. Gintama
What is it about? Set in feudal Japan, aliens have invaded and taken over the world. Now, all samurais have been disarmed and must find other ways to get by. The story follows former samurai Gintoki Sakata, looking to survive by taking on many freelance jobs. One night, on his way home from spending all his money at a bar, an alien gives him a powerful device and tells him to protect it. Of course, he smashes it, and time comes to a standstill. As a result, he must fix the clock-like device to restore balance, but things are not that simple.
Why we love it: With 60% humour and 40% action, Gintama entertains audiences with hilarious moments while also thrilling them with great fight sequences.
15. Gurren Lagann
Not only did this series receive widespread critical acclaim, but it also won the award for Best Character Design at the 7th annual Tokyo Anime Awards in 2008.
What is it about? The story follows polar opposites Simon and Kamina, who were raised in a village deep underground. Upon exploring, the duo discovers the key to an ancient device they call ‘Lagann’. When there is a surprise attack from the surface world, the duo, along with a hot-headed girl named Yoko Littner, fend off the threat. In doing so, they expose the surface, and the three set off to explore the surface. Here, they find the remainder of humanity battling against monstrous creatures known as Beastmen, who use giant suits called Gunmen to assault people. Of course, the trio does not hesitate to join the battle to reclaim Earth and uncovers a massive secret in the process.
Why we love it: Few anime sci-fi series can remain relatable despite departing from realism. Gurren Lagann somehow manages to balance abstract concepts while also staying lighthearted, which makes it unique.
14. Heavenly Delusion
What is it about? Set in a post-apocalyptic world, the remainder of humanity is now being raised behind the safety of large walls. The youth are being raised by nurse-like robots, with the entire place seemingly perfect. However, on the outside, the world has become a nightmare with no trace of technology remaining. Furthermore, it has been inhabited by strange supernatural beings. Meanwhile, Maru and Kiruko are outside, searching for what they can deem as ‘Heaven’. However, since they have been searching for so long, they begin to wonder if perhaps it does not exist.
Why we love it: Think of it as a very clever mixture of The Last of Us and Neon Genesis Evangelion. Both are epic in their own right. So imagine them together in one anime sci-fi series.
13. Made in Abyss
What is it about? A giant, seemingly endless hole has formed known as the Abyss, but no one knows where it comes from or when it first appeared. With a town now built around it, many brave souls have taken on the role of Divers and descended into the mysterious Abyss to explore. The only catch? The further down you go, the harder it is to return to the surface. So when the daughter of missing White Whistle Lyza, the Annihilator, Riko, finds a mysterious robotic boy named Reg, the two decide to go down to the final layer of the Abyss in search of Lyza. With Riko only being a child, the journey is a rough and brutal one.
Why we love it: If you can handle it (it’s quite gory), this show is definitely worth your time. A lot of effort went into creating this series, and the artwork, music, characters, and storytelling all come together seamlessly.
12. Dr. Stone
What is it about? As Taiju Ooki begins to confess his feelings to his high school crush, a catastrophic event strikes Earth and petrifies all of humanity. After a few millennia, Taiju wakes to discover that modern civilisation has been completely wiped out. He finds that his science-loving friend, Senkuu, has also awakened. Senkuu then reveals to Taiju that he plans to revive all of humanity using science. The two make a great team and succeed in figuring out how to revive humans, but they soon run into problems when the people who awaken clash with their ideologies. And this is further overshadowed by their need to discover what caused humanity to be petrified in the first place.
Why we love it: Finding anime that entertains and educates is increasingly rare these days. Thankfully, Dr. Stone is a delightful blend of both science and fiction.
11. Trigun Stampede
What is it about? Set on Noman’s Land, it follows the story of Vash the Stampede, a man who has been dubbed a lethal threat to society. However, this is all because of the atrocities committed by his evil twin brother, Knives Millions. However, Vash still gets a bad rep for the fact that trouble and destruction seem to follow in his wake, earning him the nickname “The Humanoid Typhoon”. Of course, things take a turn for the worse when bounty hunters put a price on Vash’s head and pursue him. Despite his great gunslinging prowess, the Typhoon must still face his most dangerous enemy: Knives Millions.
Why we love it: The animation and modern cinematic effects (yes, they use 3D animation) create a unique atmosphere in each episode, with action-packed scenes, dynamic camera work, superb sound design, and expressive characters adding depth to the storytelling.
10. Astro Boy
As the oldest sci-fi anime on this list, it first aired in the winter of 1963. And, of course, it still holds up as one of the best sci-fi shows of all time.
What is it about? Set in the year 2003, Professor Tenma loses himself in the creation of a robotic boy named Atom. He programs Atom to be forever good but sells him to a dastardly circus owner when he realises the substitute for his son will never grow up. Eventually, Atom is adopted by the kind Professor Ochanomizu, who encourages him to use his abilities for good.
Why we love it: Despite its age, the visuals are top-notch, comparable to the latest computer-generated movies. Also, the heartwarming story delves into philosophical themes akin to more mature titles like Blade Runner.
9. Mobile Suit Gundam
It would be crazy to have a list of the best sci-fi anime but exclude a series like Mobile Suit Gundam. As one of the best sci-fi series to date, it still holds up despite being released in 1979. The series has seen many seasons and additions since then, but nothing beats the original.
What is it about? The plot follows an inexperienced crew who end up on a new spaceship in the middle of a battle between Earth Federation and Zeon. Their only hope is the experimental RX-78 Gundam mobile suit and its talented teenage pilot. Will they beat Zeon’s best and make it back to Earth to deliver the RX-78?
Why we love it: It’s easy to see why fans love Mobile Suit Gundam. It has groundbreaking mecha battles, a compelling storyline, and well-developed characters.
8. Cowboy Bebop
This Space Western is another classic anime that all anime fans should check out at least once. It also made our list of the best comedy anime of all time.
What is it about? Set in 2071, humanity has expanded across the galaxy, having set up towns, cities, and settlements similar to the ones seen on Earth. So naturally, these settlements are plagued by crime, and bounty hunters have taken to eliminating intergalactic outlaws. Spike Spiegel and Jet Black have taken up the roles of bounty hunters and pursue these criminals across the galaxy to make a living. However, Spike is plagued by his troublesome past to the extent that their lives are disrupted by a menace he once knew.
Why we love it: Name another sci-fi anime that combines top-notch choreographed and energetic fight scenes, including hand-to-hand combat, Hong Kong-style gunfights, and intense aerial battles in space. We’ll wait.
7. Ghost in the Shell
Despite being the only anime film on this list, this is one story that has helped shape the sci-fi genre.
What is it about? Set in 2029, the world has become incredibly advanced, with Niihama City now a technological metropolis. Major Motoko Kusanagi of the Public Security Section is assigned to track down a mysterious hacker known only as the Puppet Master. Motoko finds out the true nature of the case and begins to question herself, soon realising that the Puppet Master is the one who holds the answers.
Why we love it: Artificial intelligence, cyborgs, and the nature of consciousness. It’s easy to see how this sci-fi anime inspired The Matrix.
6. Cyberpunk: Edgerunners
What is it about? Set in the futuristic world of Night City, David Martinez and his mother struggle to get by, living in the slums of the city. However, David attends the prestigious Arasaka Academy to fulfil his mother’s wish for him to get a position at the leading security company, Arasaka. After an accident leaves David an orphan, he stumbles upon Sandevistan cyberware, a suit that, once implanted, grants its user super speed. He has the cyberware installed and gets expelled from school immediately after exacting retribution. David meets a beautiful thief named Lucyna “Lucy” Kushinada, who introduces him to the world of Edgerunners, cyborg outlaws who will risk their lives and break the law for money.
Why we love it: While the game might not have lived up to standards, the show definitely does. In fact, the Netflix anime series is so well made that people started to play the game again. This show is a wild and fun ride through Night City!
5. Code Geass
It is often said that if you enjoyed Death Note, you will undoubtedly enjoy Code Geass. While there are similarities, the shows are vastly different.
What is it about? After the Holy Empire of Britannia conquered Japan, it is now known as Area 11. With the citizens of Area 11 losing the ability to self-govern, the Empire uses powerful giant robots known as Knightmares to keep order. Finally, however, the black prince, Lelouch Lamperouge (who has one of the coolest names in anime), decides enough is enough and uses the power of Geass to build a world reminiscent of his own ideals.
Why we love it: It needs no introduction. Code Geass‘s combination of intense action, political intrigue, and complex storytelling has cemented its status as one of the best anime series of all time.
4. Psycho-Pass
With a very Cyperpunk-like feel, this anime is a gem from the sci-fi genre.
What is it about? The 22nd Century introduced the Sibyl System, a technology that allows the justice force to gauge whether a person has any evil intent. This is known as a Psycho-Pass and helps Inspectors enforce the law and maintain justice, arresting anyone who harbours ill intent. Akane Tsunemori steps into the field, a young woman hoping to uphold justice. However, she soon discovers that the Sibyl System is not as perfect as everyone assumes, and her definition of justice is soon turned on its head.
Why we love it: The series presents a chilling vision of the future. It deeply analyzes free will and whether we can predict whether or not people will become criminals. If you’re looking for a thought-provoking science-fiction anime story, this is it.
3. Fullmetal Alchemist Brotherhood
What is it about? Set in a world where practising alchemy is the norm, the story follows brothers Edward and Alphonse Elric, who are left in a harsh new reality after an alchemical experiment goes wrong in the Elric household. Despite human transmutation being banned, the brothers still try to bring their deceased mother back to life. Unfortunately, this results in Alphonse losing his body while Edward loses an arm and leg. After being saved from the traumatic experience, the brothers endure years of training before setting off in search of the Philosopher’s Stone that will allow them to restore their bodies.
Why we love it: If you’re looking for a story about redemption, sacrifice, and the consequences of ambition, this is the perfect anime series for you (regardless of genre). It’s easy to see why it was voted as one of the best anime series of all time by fans across the world.
2. Neon Genesis Evangelion
How can one speak of science fiction without mentioning one of the best series ever made?
What is it about? Set fifteen years after the Second Impact, a major cataclysmic event, the world must now challenge beings known as Angels who invade Tokyo-3. Despite utilising their most advanced weapons, humanity’s only means of defending itself against these creatures are giant robots called Evangelions. After being abandoned by his father, 14-year-old Shinji Ikari returns to Tokyo-3, and it is revealed that he is the only one who can successfully pilot Evangelion Unit-0, a new robot with synchronised biometrics. But, of course, this does not come without consequences, as piloting the robot results in psychological trauma for the young boy.
Why we love it: Fans use words like “masterpiece” and “the anime of all animes” to describe this series, and it’s easy to see why. There aren’t many shows that can stand tall next to Neon Genesis Evangelion or its incredible characters. The storytelling is on another level.
1. Steins;Gate
Of course, the number one spot on this list easily goes to this masterpiece of an anime.
What is it about? Steins;Gate follows college student and wanna-be-mad scientist Rintarou Okabe, an eccentric young man with a never-ending thirst for scientific exploration. With the help of his roommate, Itaru Hashida, he creates a mysterious ‘Phone Microwave’ that seemingly only turns bananas into green goo. However, when he witnesses the death of Kurisu Makise upon attending her conference, a series of strange events follow that all link back to the Phone Microwave. He quickly discovers that he can send text messages back into the past, and this endangers the lives of all his friends when it catches the attention of the organisation SERN.
Why we love it: Prepare for your brain to be destroyed and your heart to get broken, as this series will take you on a wild ride. It deserves its place at the top of our list for its intricate time-travel plot, compelling characters, and emotional depth. Bravo to the show’s creators. Steins;Gate has some of the most memorable anime characters of all time.
Tell us, what do you think is the best sci-fi anime?
