Since its inception, Netflix has evolved from a modest platform for anime streaming to a powerhouse studio producing original content that stands tall alongside Japan’s premier anime creators. What began as a small venture with early offerings like Knights of Sidonia has flourished into a diverse library brimming with innovative, genre-defying narratives. This collection includes both adaptations and original series, yet all share a common trait: audacity in storytelling.
Let’s delve into nine remarkable Netflix original anime that have captivated audiences worldwide, each showcasing unique elements that enrich the platform.
9.Devilman Crybaby
A Heart-Wrenching Tale of Chaos
When Devilman Crybaby premiered on Netflix in January 2018, it created an emotional upheaval in the anime community. Helmed by Masaaki Yuasa, a director noted for his innovative visual narrative style, this series is a powerful reinterpretation of Go Nagai’s 1970s manga, Devilman. Compressed into ten relentless episodes, it transcends mere revival to become a profound reimagining.
The plot spotlights Akira Fudo, a compassionate teenager who fuses with a demon to shield humanity from impending doom. As chaos engulfs the world, differentiating between true monsters and innocent souls becomes increasingly complex. The graphic nature of the series tackling themes of violence, sexuality, and mortality is pivotal to its emotional resonance.
Characterized by a raw and unfiltered animation style that appears rough at times, this approach serves a purpose: it reflects the tumultuous moral landscape of the narrative. The soundtrack, especially the hauntingly beautiful “Devilman no Uta, ” adds another layer to its immersive atmosphere.
There is also a well-received English dub, featuring performances by Griffin Burns as Akira and Kyle McCarley as Ryo, both delivering compelling interpretations that rival their Japanese counterparts.
8.Violet Evergarden
Letters Imbued with Emotion
Violet Evergarden redefines the notion of anime as a poetic medium. Released in January 2018 by Kyoto Animation, the narrative unfolds in a post-war setting, where Violet, a former child soldier, reinvents herself as an “Auto Memory Doll” specializing in letter writing for others.
The series intentionally begins at a measured pace, reflecting Violet’s emotional naivety and her gradual understanding of human sentiments. Through the letters she composes, she reconstructs her broken heart and seeks closure on the final words from her commander: “I love you.”
Kyoto Animation delivers breathtaking visuals, highlighting intricate details—from the shimmering in Violet’s eyes to beautifully rendered handwritten letters. The English dub is skillfully performed by Erika Harlacher, capturing Violet’s emotional subtleties perfectly.
This series was later complemented by two feature films, including Violet Evergarden: The Movie (2020), concluding her journey in a manner that adds layers of closure, pain, and hope.
7.B: The Beginning
A Fusion of Thrills and the Supernatural
Beneath its commonplace title, B: The Beginning offers an intricate storytelling experience. Developed by Kazuto Nakazawa and produced by Production I. G, known for Ghost in the Shell, this 2018 series blends elements of crime thriller, sci-fi, and supernatural action.
The tale is set in the kingdom of Cremona, revolving around a vigilante known only as “Killer B, ” whose missions embroil him in a web of deceit, engineered humans, and clandestine organizations. The narrative is layered and occasionally cryptic, inviting viewers to engage deeply.
Protagonists Keith Flick, an eccentric investigator, and Koku, a teenager possessing extraordinary abilities, navigate the complex plot that oscillates between cerebral deduction and exhilarating supernatural confrontations.
The artistic direction is visually compelling, presented with vivid contrasts and sleek choreography. Notably, B: The Beginning expanded to a subsequent season, B: The Beginning Succession, released in 2021. The English voice performances, featuring Ray Chase as Keith and Kyle McCarley as Koku, embody the energy and depth of the characters.
6.Delicious in Dungeon
A Culinary Adventure in a Fantasy Setting
Fresh in the lineup, Delicious in Dungeon has quickly secured a spot as a fan favorite on Netflix. Based on Ryoko Kui’s manga Dungeon Meshi, it debuted in January 2024, charming audiences with its unique blend of dungeon exploration and culinary creativity.
The plot, quirky and imaginative, follows Laios and his team who, after a disastrous raid that results in a member being snatched by a dragon, must rescue her while lacking supplies. Their solution? To cook and consume the monsters they encounter in their journey.
Produced by Studio Trigger, known for its dynamic animation style, this series expertly balances humor with thoughtful world-building. Each dish presented boasts meticulous attention to culinary details, aided by an actual cooking consultant credited in the production.
The manga, first launched in 2014, has concluded, ensuring a well-rounded adaptation for fans and newcomers alike.
5.Beastars
An Eye-Opening Exploration of Instinct and Identity
At first glance, Beastars may seem like a typical anthropomorphic animal story. However, it swiftly reveals itself to be a profound exploration of identity and societal issues within the confines of Cherryton Academy.
Internationally released on Netflix in March 2020, the series, based on Paru Itagaki’s acclaimed manga, is animated by Studio Orange using effective 3D CGI. It follows Legoshi, a gray wolf grappling with his instictive urges while falling for a white dwarf rabbit named Haru.
What sets Beastars apart is its depth, as it delves into themes of prejudice and the interplay of hunger and affection, prompting viewers to confront uncomfortable societal truths.
Critics have lauded the English dub, led by Jonah Scott as Legoshi and Lara Jill Miller as Haru, for its emotional authenticity. Comprising three seasons, the series has captivated a dedicated audience on Netflix.
4.The Way of the Househusband
The Unexpected Life of a Retired Yakuza
Tatsu, once the notorious “Immortal Dragon” yakuza, has traded his criminal pursuits for the mundane but fulfilling world of household duties.The Way of the Househusband debuted on Netflix in April 2021, adapted from Kousuke Oono’s popular manga, which has seen sales surpassing five million copies.
The humor arises from juxtaposing yakuza intensity with domestic life, showcasing Tatsu’s adventures in grocery shopping and preparing bento for his career-driven wife. The series infuses traditional yakuza tropes into ordinary activities, creating a comedic yet resonant narrative.
The animation style, leaning toward comic panels and minimalistic movements, diverges from conventional anime, rendering it reminiscent of a living manga. While reactions vary, many appreciate how this aesthetic aligns with the series’ comedic tone.
Netflix offers a complete English dub featuring Jonah Scott as Tatsu, whose timing and delivery enrich the absurdity of Tatsu’s daily escapades, augmented by the brief episode lengths ideal for quick viewing.
3.Castlevania
A New Era of Video Game Adaptations
Once in the shadow of poor adaptations, video games found their footing with Castlevania, which debuted in 2017 as a landmark for anime-styled storytelling. Developed by Adi Shankar and animated by Powerhouse Animation Studios, this series draws inspiration from Castlevania III: Dracula’s Curse.
The narrative follows Dracula’s vengeful war against humanity after the Church’s heinous act against his wife. By intertwining revenge, regret, and inherited trauma, it weaves a story that resonates on multiple levels, articulated through Trevor Belmont, Sypha Belnades, and Dracula’s son, Alucard.
The expertly crafted writing by Warren Ellis elevates the series with complex characters, sharp dialogue, and nuances that lend the villains a surprisingly human quality. Trevor is refreshingly flawed—gritty and reluctant, yet relatable, grounding the narrative.
The vivid animation is notable, featuring fluid movement and stunning choreographed battles that set a new standard for Western-produced anime. With a distinguished voice cast that includes Richard Armitage (Trevor), James Callis (Alucard), and Graham McTavish (Dracula), the series garnered critical acclaim.
Completing its run in 2021, Castlevania ended on a high note, paving the way for the sequel Castlevania: Nocturne, which chronicles Richter Belmont’s saga and continues its legacy splendidly.
2.Mouth
A Battle Royale of Legends
No discussion of Netflix anime is complete without mentioning Baki, a showcase of fierce competition among the most extraordinary martial artists. Based on Keisuke Itagaki’s legendary series Baki the Grappler, the Netflix revival commenced in 2018 and has expanded with multiple sequels, including Baki: Dai Raitaisai-hen and Baki Hanma.
Baki defies conventional storytelling by diving directly into visceral confrontation, showcasing bone-crunching battles from the get-go. Centered on Baki Hanma, the son of the self-proclaimed “strongest creature on Earth, ”the series prioritizes spectacle over traditional narrative structure.
It features everything from clever escape maneuvers from death row to ancient martial arts tournaments and epic showdowns with characters like Pickle, a prehistoric caveman. Its unapologetic celebration of aggression and absurdity appeals to a specific audience looking for pure adrenaline.
The English dub features prominent voice actors, including Troy Baker and Johnny Yong Bosch, although the visual extravaganza remains the focal point of the series, defined by its exaggerated animations and outrageous martial arts feats.
While incredibly niche, for those seeking a high-octane experience, Baki reigns supreme.
1.Cyberpunk: Edgerunners
A Spectacle of Neon Dystopia
Some series take years to achieve iconic status, but Cyberpunk: Edgerunners accomplished this feat in just ten episodes. Released in September 2022, this standalone series, set in the universe of Cyberpunk 2077, was a collaboration between Studio Trigger and CD Projekt Red, capturing audiences by storm.
Set against the neon-lit backdrop of Night City, it chronicles the odyssey of David Martinez, a street kid who integrates military-grade enhancements into his body in the face of survival. This transformation leads him into a gripping journey filled with devotion, allegiance, and foreboding descent.
While players of the game will find familiar faces and elements, the anime stands on its own, delivering an intensely personal narrative that transcends its gaming origins. With stunning visuals — vibrant colors and swift transitions — it boasts an art style distinctive to Studio Trigger.
The voice acting is exceptional in both Japanese and English, with Zach Aguilar portraying David and notable actors like Giancarlo Esposito contributing to an impressive ensemble. Following its release, Cyberpunk 2077 experienced a significant resurgence in player engagement, illustrating the anime’s undeniable influence on the gaming community.
Venerating its remarkable storytelling, Cyberpunk: Edgerunners snagged Anime of the Year at the 2023 Crunchyroll Awards, crowning it as one of Netflix’s premier original anime series.
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