A genre that has captivated our species for the longest time, science fiction continues to deliver entertaining and thought-provoking stories through a variety of different artistic mediums. Anime fans are no strangers to the sci-fi genre as epics such as Akira and even Astro Boy have left audiences star-struck over the decades.
Fast forward to the modern day and viewers have a treasure trove of sci-fi anime shows to watch. From enchanting science fantasy to grimdark cyberpunk settings, anime fans can sink their teeth into a variety of stories and fascinating worlds. Though it can be argued that a show is all about its characters and plot, a well-built world can immerse its viewer even more. Whilst many shows have demonstrated incredible and breathtaking worlds, there are several that stand out the most and have left their mark on cultural history.
5 Tokyo-3 (Neon Genesis Evangelion)
Japanese Title | Neon Genesis Evangelion |
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Studio | Gainax, Tatsunoko Production |
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Like it or hate it, Neon Genesis Evangelion is a Sci-Fi classic staple that many hardcore anime fans have placed at the top of their lists. Though placing a higher focus on its mecha or rather, EVA pilots as well as the members of NERV whilst oozing philosophical and psychological themes, Tokyo-3 remains one of the most battered up and resilient of cities.
Under constant assault and threat of an alien race known as the Angels, the main character Shinji and his fellow Evangelion pilots must confront and defeat each Angel that arrives. Being the ultimate city-fortress, Tokyo-3 has buildings that can retract in the face of devastation, as well as sporting several missile launch silos and weapon caches for the Evas. Though much of it is later destroyed, the city itself remains one of the most resilient and powerful bastions within the sci-fi genre.
4 The Solar System (Cowboy Bebop)
Japanese Title | Cowboy Bebop |
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Studio | Sunrise |
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Whilst not the main focus of the show, the solar system depicted in Cowboy Bebop still sets the mood and tone for the entire series. Giving a sort of retro-punk vibe, Cowboy Bebop’s solar system evokes feelings of nostalgia, loneliness, and opportunity. Combine this from the perspective of bounty hunters on the move and you have a solid setting befitting of a space western.
One interesting aspect of the world featured in the series is that it never appears to overshadow the series, which may give the impression that there’s nothing special about it. However, amidst the explosive action sequences and drama, the show does have its lulls and calm moments. Add Yoko Kanno’s incredible soundtrack and the feeling that this universe evokes is purely sublime.
3 The Abyss (Made In Abyss)
Japanese Title | Made in Abyss |
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Studio | Kinema Citrus |
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Whilst technically a fantasy series, Made In Abyss also blurs into the realm of sci-fi with its emphasis on lost technology and the themes the show evokes. The Abyss is probably one of the most intricate and mysterious worlds in anime itself, taking inspiration from Biblical and Buddhism. Featuring high risk and high rewards, explorers (or rather delvers) constantly venture into the dangerous crevices to uncover lucrative lost technologies and map out their secrets.
Beautiful and horrific, the Abyss features several curses and layers which house various creatures and entities, drawing its characters as well the viewers deeper and deeper into its treacherous mystery.
2 The Demon World/The Neverland (The Promised Neverland)
Japanese Title | Yakusoku no Neverland |
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Studio | CloverWorks |
Where to Stream | Crunchyroll, Funimation, HIDIVE (Season 1), Hulu, Netflix, VRV |
Whilst the second season didn’t quite live up to expectations, none can deny the strength and appeal of the Promised Neverland’s first season. Beautiful but a complete fabrication, the children of Grace Field House learn a terrible truth when they discover they are livestock for a sinister race of demons that crave human brains.
Eventually spanning across several locations throughout the world after its first season including a treacherous forest, an underground bunker, as well as a demonic village, the Demon World does present several interesting albeit bizarre ecosystems and entities, that are both friend and foe to the children.
1 Night City (Cyberpunk: Edgerunners)
Japanese Title | Cyberpunk: Edgerunners |
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Studio | Trigger |
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Whilst gaming and anime fans might have mixed feelings about 2020’s Cyberpunk 2077, none can doubt the beauty and draw of the game’s primary setting—Night City. A cesspit of greed, corruption, and blood, Night City’s neon lights and winding streets also present a sort of charm and draw that few can ignore.
Cyberpunk: Edgerunners revisits several familiar iconic locations such as the Afterlife bar and Arasaka Tower whilst focusing on a new set of mercenaries trying to wind themselves to the top. Unlike its video game counterpart, the series has been positively received by the gaming and anime community alike. Viewers can’t help but want to revisit the game once more as a geared-up cyber mercenary, ready to dominate Night City’s unforgiving streets and city skyline.