Parijat Ghosh 
Netflix has evolved from a streaming platform into a major anime producer. Its original anime slate spans cyberpunk dystopias, dark fantasy epics, steampunk warfare, psychological thrillers, and even Roman comedy. The result is a catalog that feels like a late-night anime binge curated by someone who refuses to sleep. Below are ten Netflix produced anime that stand out for their storytelling, voice performances, animation craft, and cultural impact.
1. Cyberpunk: Edgerunners
Genre: Cyberpunk, action, tragedy, science fiction
Studio: Trigger
Voices: Kenn, Aoi Yuuki, Hiroki Tochi
Set in the dystopian Night City, the story follows David Martinez, a street kid trying to survive in a world dominated by cybernetic enhancements and corporate power. After a personal tragedy, he installs illegal cyberware and joins a crew of mercenaries known as edgerunners. Among them is Lucy, a mysterious netrunner whose dreams extend beyond the city’s digital prison. The series expands the universe of Cyberpunk 2077 while telling a standalone story. Critics praised its emotional intensity, kinetic animation, and devastating final arc.
Why watch: explosive action paired with heartbreaking storytelling.
2. Devilman Crybaby
Genre: dark fantasy, horror, psychological drama, superhero
Director: Masaaki Yuasa
Akira Fudo merges with a demon to protect humanity from a hidden demonic invasion. Retaining his human heart, he becomes Devilman and battles monsters while witnessing humanity’s descent into paranoia and violence. The series reimagines Go Nagai’s classic manga with modern themes and experimental animation. It received widespread acclaim for its bold storytelling and emotional devastation.
Why watch: emotionally overwhelming and visually daring.
3. Beastars
Genre: drama, romance, psychological, slice of life
In a world populated by anthropomorphic animals, shy wolf Legoshi struggles with predatory instincts while forming a complicated bond with Haru, a dwarf rabbit. After a murder at their academy heightens carnivore-herbivore tensions, Legoshi confronts identity, prejudice, and desire. The series blends social commentary with intimate character drama and has earned global recognition for its mature storytelling.
Why watch: a coming-of-age drama disguised as an animal story.
4. Dorohedoro
Genre: dark fantasy, action, mystery, horror comedy
Caiman suffers from amnesia and a reptile head curse. He hunts sorcerers in a lawless city known as Hole, hoping to discover who transformed him. With his friend Nikaido, he uncovers a violent world ruled by magic users from another dimension. The show stands out for its grim worldbuilding, absurd humor, and graphic violence balanced with warmth between characters.
Why watch: grotesque chaos with unexpected heart.
5. Leviathan
Genre: steampunk, alternate history, war drama, science fiction
Set during an alternate World War I, the story follows Prince Aleksandar, a fugitive heir, and Deryn Sharp, a girl disguised as a boy serving in the British air service. Their paths cross aboard the Leviathan, a living airship created from genetically engineered creatures. The adaptation blends political intrigue, war drama, and imaginative bio-mechanical designs.
Why watch: steampunk spectacle with emotional stakes.
6. Hero Mask
Genre: crime thriller, action, science fiction
Detective James Blood investigates a series of violent incidents involving mysterious masks that grant superhuman abilities. Teaming with prosecutor Sarah Sinclair, he uncovers a conspiracy tied to political corruption and human experimentation. The show blends procedural crime drama with superhuman elements and conspiracy storytelling.
Why watch: grounded detective drama with sci-fi intrigue.
7. Thermae Romae Novae
Genre: comedy, historical, slice of life
Lucius, a bathhouse architect in ancient Rome, repeatedly time travels to modern Japan. Each visit exposes him to advanced bathing culture, from hot springs to ergonomic tubs, which he adapts into revolutionary Roman designs. The anime includes live action segments highlighting real bath culture traditions.
Why watch: educational comedy you never knew you needed.
8. Neo Yokio
Genre: satire, fantasy, science fiction, comedy
Kaz Kaan is a wealthy demon slayer living in Neo Yokio, a futuristic city obsessed with fashion, status, and luxury. While battling supernatural threats, he grapples with privilege, heartbreak, and existential dread. Created by Ezra Koenig, the series satirizes consumer culture and elite lifestyles through stylized storytelling.
Why watch: stylish satire with absurd humor.
9. Yasuke
Genre: historical fantasy, action, mecha, supernatural
Inspired by the historical African samurai Yasuke, the story follows a retired warrior drawn back into conflict while protecting a mysterious child with powerful abilities. The narrative blends feudal Japan with magic, warlords, and giant mechanized weapons. The series stars LaKeith Stanfield in the English version and features a score by Flying Lotus.
Why watch: history meets fantasy spectacle.
10. Vampire in the Garden
Genre: dark fantasy, post-apocalyptic, drama, music
In a world ravaged by war between humans and vampires, a human girl named Momo and a vampire queen named Fine dream of a place where both species can coexist peacefully. Their journey unfolds across ruined landscapes and fragile alliances. Produced by Wit Studio, the anime emphasizes atmosphere, music, and emotional storytelling.
Why watch: haunting visuals and a poignant anti-war message.
Conclusion: Anime Mania
Netflix has invested heavily in anime production, collaborating with major studios like Trigger, Wit Studio, Production I.G, and Orange. This global approach blends Japanese storytelling with international themes and audiences. Anime viewership on the platform has surged into billions of hours watched, reflecting growing global demand.
Unlike traditional TV anime, Netflix Originals often feature cinematic pacing, global release schedules, and diverse storytelling risks. Whether you want emotional devastation, philosophical reflection, or pure chaotic fun, there is something here waiting to ruin your sleep schedule.
If you have more suggestions for Netflix Originals Anime, let us know in the comments below. For more content, stay tuned. As usual, like, subscribe, and share our articles as we here are trying to build a community of people High on Cinema!
