If you’re a fan of Sci-fi anime, then you’ve likely encountered the cyberpunk sub-genre. Cyberpunk, as the name suggests, focuses on advanced technology, robotics, and androids, while featuring street-smart, tough characters. Often, the genre delves into social inequalities and explores the darker side of society, making it an intriguing and thought-provoking category of anime.
If you enjoy anime that explores a dystopian future or the complexities of a fractured society, cyberpunk anime will definitely resonate with you. Below is a list of the top 20 cyberpunk anime that are sure to captivate any fan of this thrilling sub-genre.
The 20 Best Cyberpunk Anime of All Time
20. Trigun
Rumors are often exaggerated and misleading, as Meryl and Milly learn when they are assigned the task of finding the so-called “merciless villain” Vash the Stampede. Expecting to face a ruthless killer, they are instead surprised by Vash’s goofy and kind-hearted nature. This cyberpunk anime mixes action, humor, adventure, and friendship, making it a perfect blend for anyone seeking both thrills and heartwarming moments.
19. Psycho-Pass
In a world where the Sibyl System uses advanced technology to determine whether a person is likely to commit a crime, the concept of justice is called into question. Akane Tsunemori, a young inspector, soon discovers that this system isn’t as infallible as it seems. Psycho-Pass offers a deep dive into the flaws of an automated justice system, packed with action and philosophical questions.
18. Ergo Proxy
Set in a post-apocalyptic world, Ergo Proxy explores the coexistence of humans and androids. With humanity’s population dwindling, Re-l Mayer, the granddaughter of the sovereign of Romdo, is tasked with investigating a mysterious virus that grants self-awareness to robots. This series blends action, mystery, science fiction, and a touch of romance, making it a gripping cyberpunk experience.
17. Ghost in the Shell
In a futuristic world where humans can fully integrate technology into their bodies, a new kind of crime emerges. The Japanese government’s elite police division, Sector-9, is tasked with investigating cybercrimes. Their latest challenge is a dangerous hacker known as “The Laughing Man.” Ghost in the Shell is a classic that will keep you guessing as it tackles themes of identity, consciousness, and technology.
16. Space Pirate Captain Harlock
Captain Harlock, a rebellious space pirate, leads a team to fight an alien race, the Mazone, who threaten Earth. With its futuristic setting, cyberpunk aesthetic, and themes of freedom, Space Pirate Captain Harlock is a timeless adventure that blends action with philosophical musings on duty and survival.
15. Metropolis
In Metropolis, humans and robots live side by side, but tensions arise when robots are oppressed by humans. When a detective named Kenichi and his uncle stumble upon a series of murders linked to mysterious robots, they become embroiled in a dangerous conspiracy. This cyberpunk anime is a mix of mystery, sci-fi, and social commentary.
After a war that left many humans with cybernetic enhancements, Juzo Inui—who has a revolver for a head—works as a “resolver,” handling incidents related to these enhanced individuals. When a mysterious child becomes the target of a group of rogue cybernetic criminals, Juzo’s life takes an unexpected turn. With its supernatural elements, No Guns Life delivers a compelling action-packed narrative.
13. SoltyRei – The Red Lady
Set in a world where cybernetic enhancements are common, SoltyRei follows Roy Revant, a bodyguard who, after a personal tragedy, becomes determined to find his missing daughter. His search leads him to Solty, a mysterious young girl with incredible strength and no memory of her past. This heartwarming cyberpunk tale explores themes of family and redemption.
12. Space Dandy
If you prefer a light-hearted take on cyberpunk, Space Dandy offers a fun and quirky space adventure. Dandy, an eccentric space explorer, travels the galaxy with his alien companions in search of new species. The show is packed with humor, eye-catching visuals, and a playful exploration of the sci-fi genre.
11. Dimension W
In a world where the discovery of a fourth dimension, Dimension W, provides infinite energy, illegal coils begin to circulate. Kyouma Mabuchi, a collector who hunts down these illegal coils, teams up with an android named Mira to uncover a conspiracy tied to the mysterious origin of the coils. Dimension W offers a thrilling narrative with intricate world-building and philosophical explorations of energy and technology.
10. Kanata no Astra (Astra Lost in Space)
In a future where interplanetary travel is common, a group of schoolchildren on a trip to a distant planet is mysteriously transported to the farthest reaches of space. Stranded, they must work together to survive and find their way back home. This series combines space exploration, mystery, and a sense of camaraderie, making it a must-watch for cyberpunk fans.
9. Armitage III
Set on Mars, Armitage III centers around the discovery of a third generation of robots, indistinguishable from humans. Detective Ross Sylibus, partnered with the android Armitage, investigates a series of murders involving these robots. The series mixes action, mystery, and social commentary, making it a compelling cyberpunk thriller.
8. Bubblegum Crisis
In a dystopian Tokyo, a group of mercenaries called the Knight Sabers takes on the rogue machines called Boomers, which are causing havoc in the city. With their advanced technology and skills, the Knight Sabers are humanity’s last hope against a growing mechanical menace. Filled with action, female empowerment, and a gritty narrative, this is a must-watch for fans of cyberpunk anime.
In a divided Japan, the lawlessness of Kansai gives rise to a group of notorious criminals known as Akudama. A civilian girl finds herself entangled in their missions, unaware of the chaos she’s about to experience. With stunning visuals and a gripping story, Akudama Drive keeps viewers hooked from start to finish.
6. Eureka Seven
In Eureka Seven, Renton, a young boy, gets caught up in a conflict between humans and mysterious beings known as “Scub Coral.” He joins a group of rebels led by the enigmatic Eureka. The series blends cyberpunk elements with romance, action, and a thought-provoking exploration of human relationships.
5. Battle Angel Alita
Battle Angel Alita (also known as Gunnm) is a classic cyberpunk anime that takes place in a dystopian world where technology and humanity are closely intertwined. The story follows Alita, a cyborg who is found in a junkyard by a scientist named Ido. With no memories of her past life, Alita embarks on a journey of self-discovery, while uncovering dark secrets about the world she now inhabits.
This anime is a thrilling ride that combines high-tech cybernetics with deep philosophical questions about identity, survival, and the meaning of humanity. If you enjoy action-packed, heart-wrenching tales with futuristic settings, Battle Angel Alita is definitely worth checking out.
4. Blame!
Set in a distant future, Blame! explores a post-apocalyptic world where humanity has nearly vanished, and the remnants of civilization have been overtaken by a massive, ever-growing megastructure. The story follows Killy, a lone traveler on a quest to find the “Net Terminal Gene” to save humanity.
With minimal dialogue and stunning, atmospheric animation, Blame! creates an eerie and unique experience, immersing the audience in its bleak, cyberpunk world. The anime explores themes of isolation, technology’s evolution, and the loss of humanity. If you like a slow-burn, visually captivating cyberpunk anime, this one is for you.
3. Cowboy Bebop
Cowboy Bebop is a legendary cyberpunk anime that blends science fiction with noir-style detective work. The story follows a group of bounty hunters, or “cowboys,” led by Spike Spiegel as they travel through the solar system in search of criminals to capture. Alongside Spike are Jet Black, Faye Valentine, Ed, and Ein, each with their own complex backstory and unique skills.
Cowboy Bebop is beloved for its deep character development, unforgettable soundtrack, and a perfect mix of action, drama, and philosophical musings on existentialism and the human condition. Its influence on both anime and pop culture is immeasurable, making it a must-watch for anyone interested in the genre.
In a decaying world of underground cities and political strife, Texhnolyze explores a dystopian society where humans augment themselves with mechanical limbs to survive. The protagonist, Ichise, is a fighter who loses both of his arms and legs, only to be transformed into a cyborg. As he becomes more involved with the chaos of the city, he discovers the darker forces manipulating events behind the scenes.
This anime is darker and more philosophical than others in the cyberpunk genre, tackling issues such as identity, violence, and the consequences of human evolution. The bleak, atmospheric tone and stunning animation make Texhnolyze a unique and immersive experience.
1. Serial Experiments Lain
Serial Experiments Lain is a psychological cyberpunk anime that explores the boundaries between the real world and the virtual one. The series centers on Lain Iwakura, a 14-year-old girl who becomes drawn into the mysterious world of the “Wired,” a virtual space that is connected to reality. As Lain delves deeper into this network, she begins to question the nature of consciousness, identity, and reality itself.
This anime is known for its complex and thought-provoking narrative, with themes of technology’s impact on society and the individual’s sense of self. If you enjoy mind-bending, surreal stories that challenge your perceptions of reality, Serial Experiments Lain is a must-watch for you.
These 20 cyberpunk anime represent the best of the genre, each offering a unique take on futuristic themes, technology, and society. Whether you’re looking for intense action, philosophical musings, or stunning world-building, these anime have something for every fan of the cyberpunk genre.
Dev King is a passionate fan of manga, manhwa, and webtoons, with a love for Korean, Japanese, and Chinese cartoons. Always exploring new worlds and stories, he finds joy in every unique style and plot twist.
