Full List of the Best Cyberpunk Anime of All Time

The cyberpunk genre has gained widespread popularity beyond Japan. This could be attributed to its origins as a Western literary movement, as well as its thought-provoking philosophical themes surrounding technology, transhumanism, and identity. Regardless of the reasons, it is undeniable that this genre boasts an impressive array of works, including numerous beloved shows and films cherished by both fans and critics.

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Consequently, it is understandable why individuals would be eager to discover the best cyberpunk anime of all time available. After all, enthusiasts of the genre would not want to miss out on any of the masterpieces that effectively explore the intricate themes within this genre, depicting how individuals navigate life in an urban dystopia dominated by technology.

Now, check out a list of the best cyberpunk anime of all time, showcased below:

1/ The Animatrix

The Matrix was a groundbreaking sci-fi endeavor during its time, with the initial film quickly becoming a beloved classic. Despite subsequent attempts to capitalize on its success falling short, it was evident that the universe held a wealth of captivating stories waiting to be explored. This realization paved the way for The Animatrix, a compilation of short tales presented in a feature-length format, each showcasing unique animation styles that captivate audiences in their own right.

The Animatrix provided a tantalizing glimpse into the untapped potential of The Matrix, leaving a void that has yet to be filled. Those who consider themselves fans of The Matrix but have yet to experience this exceptional animated feature are truly missing out on something extraordinary. In fact, this collection effectively captures the essence of The Matrix far better than its three sequels ever managed to do.

2/ Serial Experiments Lain

Serial Experiments Lain is a revered classic that introduced a new perspective and exceptionally well-crafted character development to the cyberpunk genre. It delves into the crisis of identity in the digital age like no other, creating a disorienting ambiance with groundbreaking scenes and visuals. The narrative revolves around Lain Iwakura, a 14-year-old high school student who experiences a sense of detachment from her social surroundings.

The central focus is on her interaction with The Wired, a virtual realm encompassing all forms of human communication. Across its 13 episodes, Lain presents a profound and insightful exploration of our connection with technology and digital platforms, all while narrating the journey of a reserved student navigating the complexities of constructing her identity in a cybernetic world. Hence, this series deserves to be one of the best cyberpunk anime of all time.

3/ Battle Angel Alita

The majority of individuals are familiar with the fact that Alita: Battle Angel originated as a manga before being transformed into a successful live-action film that garnered a strong following, despite some reservations about the appearance of the protagonist.

However, what often goes unnoticed is that this manga also inspired a 2-OVA anime that holds its own in terms of quality. Although the condensed storyline may pose a challenge in fully engaging with the series and its characters, this OVA serves as a commendable introduction to Alita: Battle Angel. It is reasonable to assume that many viewers would be inclined to explore the manga or watch the movie after experiencing this OVA, which remains a solid piece of entertainment for its era.

4/ Cyber City Oedo 808

In a cyberpunk society rife with crime, the only way to catch criminals is to employ people who understand how the minds of these villains work. This makes it easy to see why the Cyber Police in this series use incarcerated criminals, promising a reduced sentence if they help out in capturing other lawbreakers in the act. This ensures that the people who walk the straight and narrow aren’t caught in the crossfire.