With plenty of new Netflix Original Anime releasing every year, the platform contributes significantly to bringing banger shows to the industry. While some are completely original ideas, others are adaptations of old manga classics or ongoing mega hits. Thus, the platform is constantly pushing plenty of new content.
Most of the titles on this list are produced or co-produced by Netflix, but some are not. Instead, they are considered Netflix Originals because the platform holds their exclusive streaming rights. Therefore, after sorting through them all, we’ve picked the 30 best Netflix Original anime and ranked them based on their overall narratives and storylines. So, without further ado, let’s dive right in, shall we?
30. KENGAN ASHURA
Those who enjoy brutally violent unarmed 1v1 fights will find KENGAN ASHURA right up their alley. Its underground corporate tournament premise is quite unique and filled with high-octane action. But the overall story progression is not that remarkable. Apart from enjoying the fights, you will rarely get significant character development. It’s mostly about showcasing various fighting styles rather than introducing powerful new opponents. That’s why KENGAN ASHURA ranks 30th on the list.
29. BAKI
Quite similar to KENGAN ASHURA, BAKI also presents a bare-bones fistfight setting. But the reason that makes it so popular among its niche fanbase is also what holds its popularity back. It’s the sheer absurdity BAKI brings to the table. The characters are monstrously muscular, and their feats are like those of superheroes. However, no superpowers are used in the series. Still, because the series fully embraces its over-the-top nature and builds upon it, BAKI ranks 29th on the list.
28. BLAME!
BLAME! could have easily become one of the best anime to ever come out, but its limited runtime did the series dirty. The premise brings forth a setting that is arguably one of anime’s most fascinating dystopian worlds. The atmosphere in the anime is also unlike that of many other sci-fi anime. Even the source material had fans hoping for something truly epic. However, BLAME! only ranks 28th because the overall narrative feels incomplete and lacks the emotional payoff found in the titles above it.
27. Kakegurui
No matter how low Kakegurui ranks on the list, we can’t deny that this anime, along with Kaiji, has become the face of gambling-focused anime in the community. The iconic character designs in the series have made the anime quite unforgettable. That said, the story provides little to receive a higher rank. Every arc follows a similar formula, with the MC challenging another opponent before moving on. Even the psychological mind games become repetitive at some point.
26. The Way of the Househusband
A good comedy is rare to come by. And honestly, you won’t find that many comedy-focused Netflix Original anime anyway. Therefore, The Way of the Househusband brings a nice breath of fresh air. The MC being an ex-yakuza leader who is now trying to become an ideal househusband makes for so many laugh-out-loud moments. The animation is also quite lively. But unfortunately, in terms of overall narrative, The Way of the Househusband ranks on the lower side of the list.
25. Godzilla Singular Point
Another example of a series’ biggest strength becoming its biggest weakness. The portrayal of Godzilla in an anime wasn’t half bad in Godzilla Singular Point. In fact, it even has a brooding mystery premise accompanied by a dense sci-fi setting. But because the plot gets so dense, it becomes hard to form any emotional attachment to the characters. It loses the very purpose of why you watch a show. Therefore, Godzilla Singular Point ranks only 25th on the list, despite being a good anime.
24. SAKAMOTO DAYS
On paper, SAKAMOTO DAYS has all the ingredients a series needs to become giga popular. But still, the anime couldn’t live up to the source material’s potential, at least as of yet. It provides a similar premise to The Way of the Househusband, as a former legendary hitman falls in love, retires from his job, and settles into family life. Still, he gets involved in several life-threatening situations due to his past. But the presentation in the anime feels far less rewarding. Thus, SAKAMOTO DAYS is this low on the list.
23. Record of Ragnarok
Despite the negative reviews, Record of Ragnarok manages to deliver one of the most gripping tournament arcs. Heck, the whole anime is literally one big tournament arc, where humanity is tasked with battling gods in 1v1 matchups to protect itself from extinction. Now, that sounds totally absurd, right? How can a human fight a god on equal footing? But the anime provides enough explanation on how it is made possible and leaves no loose ends. However, because of its controversial narrative and divisive reception, it couldn’t be ranked any higher.
22. Cosmic Princess Kaguya!
Cosmic Princess Kaguya! is the first Netflix Original movie on the list and also one of the platform’s most ambitious projects. The narrative tells the story of Princess Kaguya, a Japanese folktale, but gives it a modern sci-fi spin using themes like virtual reality, MOBA games, time travel, and more. Therefore, the majority of the film remains extremely enjoyable, except for the final part, which may become a bit overwhelming to understand. Still, Cosmic Princess Kaguya! easily deserves a spot on the list.
21. Blue Box
The way Blue Box combines the sports and romance genres really deserves all the praise. Like, fans who love the whole sports vibe with tournament arcs and all can enjoy the anime. Plus, they also get a deeper romance plot, and honestly, Blue Box‘s romance is quite entertaining and really well written. It’s one of the rare love triangle plots that genuinely leaves you confused about who to root for. However, the anime’s intentionally slow pacing may not be for everyone. That’s why it couldn’t be ranked in the top 20.
20. Lookism
The main premise of Lookism is, in and of itself, extremely relatable for this generation. Kids often get bullied for their school looks, and it’s a common occurrence across the globe. The series addresses this phenomenon in the most exciting way. Slowly, it expands into social commentary about discrimination, poverty, and identity, which earns it a spot in the top 20. But again, the show is targeted at a very niche audience, and the anime’s manhwa-esque art style may not be for everyone.
19. Super Crooks
Super Crooks is essentially the anime version of Suicide Squad. The main cast is a bunch of ragtag criminals who are sent on one last mission to take down a supervillain. But the way the group works together makes for an exciting watch. Also, Studio Bones’ classy, fluid action animation is simply out of this world. A few scenes from the series are truly one of a kind. But the series does have somewhat weak pacing at times. Therefore, it only ranks 19th on the list.
18. Komi Can’t Communicate
If you have social anxiety, or can empathize with those who do, then Komi Can’t Communicate would be the perfect anime for you to watch next. The series also has its fair share of comedy, which complements the anime’s slice-of-life setting. Every moment the MC, Komi, overcomes her social anxiety, it really pulls at the heartstrings of every viewer. Like, you can’t help but root for her. But because the series has an episodic structure, some viewers may not enjoy it as much, which results in its 18th-place ranking.
17. Sparks of Tomorrow
Though the anime has just started airing, it has already secured a place among the best anime came out in recent years. The alternate 21st-century premise, where everything is powered by steam, would be such a treat for steampunk lovers. And Studio Kyoto Animation’s jaw-dropping animation makes the whole experience even more rewarding. Plus, it even has a revolutionary mystery plot. So, all in all, it deserves a spot on the list, and with later episodes, it may even rank higher.
16. Lost in Starlight
Despite being a fully Korean anime film, Lost in Starlight gives tough competition to Makoto Shinkai and even Studio Ghibli films. The movie blends romance with science fiction in the most beautiful way possible. It even explores themes of dreams and the sacrifices that must be made to achieve them. The main leads also share a deep chemistry that feels quite refreshing, especially with the film’s vibrant animation. Therefore, Lost in Starlight secures the 16th spot on the list.
15. Japan Sinks: 2020
Japan Sinks: 2020 is arguably one of the most haunting natural disaster anime ever made. The sheer horror of earthquakes and how they can literally bring an entire country to sea level is terrifying. The portrayal of the fear experienced by the characters also feels incredibly real. Such desperate times require difficult choices, which ultimately make for a thrilling viewing experience. So, with all that combined, Japan Sinks: 2020 secures a spot in the top 15 of the list.
14. The Ramparts of Ice
Not many people might have heard the hype about this show, but it quietly came and mesmerized everyone who ended up watching it. The Ramparts of Ice is a really well-written coming-of-age romance story that builds its characters with much nuance. The story follows a female protagonist, but it still doesn’t fall under the typical shoujo vibes. The show remains equally entertaining for boys and girls alike. The awkwardness and subtle romantic developments are its strong suit, which helps it rank 14th.
13. Uncle from Another World
Subverting the typical isekai tropes, Uncle from Another World brings a fresh take on the genre. How exactly? First of all, the MC is a middle-aged man who gets transported to a magical world and learns all kinds of spells. But the twist is that he later returns to the real world and can use his newfound powers on Earth. This creates a bunch of rather unexpected scenarios that you won’t see in any other isekai anime. Therefore, Uncle from Another World easily claims the 13th spot on the list.
12. Maboroshi
What else would you expect from a film written by the creator of Maquia and Anohana? Of course, it had to be emotionally rich. In fact, the movie also delivers a really unique premise where the main cast is trapped inside a town for eternity. But the reason behind it later turns out to be one of the saddest ones. It is truly tragic. The symbolism in the movie is also outstanding. So, with all that combined, Maboroshi easily becomes the best Netflix Original anime film.
11. AJIN: Demi-Human
If you are a sucker for stories that deliver relentless tension with increasingly high stakes, AJIN: Demi-Human should be at the top of your priority list to watch next. It even has one of anime’s most charismatic villains, who constantly forces the protagonist into impossible situations. This creates moments in the anime that will very likely give you goosebumps. But the anime may not be suitable for everyone and can get confusing at times. That’s why it couldn’t be ranked in the top 10.
10. BEASTARS
The animal-themed setting is just for the sake of presentation. But in actuality, BEASTARS tells a sophisticated psychological tale about societal discrimination and the weight of expectations from everyone around you. The main duo may be a bunny and a wolf (kinda similar to Zootopia), but even apart from them, every major character has enough depth, making the narrative emotionally rich. That’s exactly why BEASTARS swiftly becomes the 10th best Netflix Original anime.
9. Kotaro Lives Alone
While it starts as a slice-of-life comedy anime focusing on a kid who lives alone, as the title already suggests, why does he live alone to begin with? Well, when you go to find the answer to that question, you will notice the anime explores deep themes like childhood trauma and loneliness. At some point, you won’t exactly find it funny, but that’s for a good reason. The way the anime transitions from a lighthearted tone to a compellingly serious one deserves the 9th spot on the list.
8. Blue Period
Ever felt like you had a passion as a kid, but as you grew older, it got buried? If yes, then Blue Period should help you rediscover your lost passion. Here, the main protagonist begins his journey of rediscovering his passion for art. Every scene in the anime feels deliberate and contributes greatly to the characters’ growth. The competitions also feel extremely entertaining. So, with such strong themes, Blue Period surely deserves the 8th spot on the list. No questions asked.
7. Dorohedoro
One of the absolute gems in modern dark fantasy is none other than Dorohedoro. The series is brutally violent and unapologetically dark. But you know what? Even amidst all that, Dorohedoro brings many comedic moments, which give the series an unexpected freshness. Even the storyline has many layers, with a brooding mystery subplot. The characters are extremely twisted, yet you’d still feel a sense of realism in them. Therefore, Dorohedoro easily secures the 7th spot.
6. The Fragrant Flower Blooms With Dignity
The Fragrant Flower Blooms With Dignity literally redefined the romance genre. Basically, it brought the genre back to its former glory. No overcomplicated love triangles, no unnecessary drama, no toxic friendships. The anime is purely about a guy and a girl mutually falling for each other, with both overcoming their personal problems. This is how romance should be, even in real life. And each episode in the anime will leave you giggling. No wonder The Fragrant Flower Blooms With Dignity is the best Netflix Original romance anime.
5. Great Pretender
The sheer scale of Great Pretender‘s narrative is massive. This anime truly feels like a Netflix Original, as the story revolves around multiple subplots centered across the globe. The narrative especially follows a group of con artists who are looking for their next heist. And in doing so, the series ends up brewing some of the best mystery thriller plots that are also quite entertaining to watch. That’s why Great Pretender easily claims a spot in the top 5 of the list.
4. Devilman: Crybaby
Plot-wise, Devilman: Crybaby delivers one of the most compelling narratives. The way it presents humanity’s self-destructive nature is simply awe-inspiring. The anime even masterfully blends supernatural action with themes that can feel deeply personal. Every major event pushes the characters toward an inevitable conclusion that feels both shocking and emotionally devastating. And combined with Science SARU’s animation, the anime becomes an instant top 4 candidate.
3. Cyberpunk: Edgerunners
Chances were slim, but Studio Trigger and CD Projekt Red proved how a video game adaptation is done. The Cyberpunk 2077 game already provides a gritty setting for many stories to bloom, and the anime chooses to deliver what might be one of the saddest storylines in this futuristic sci-fi world. The anime starts with nonstop action and sick world-building and slowly becomes more and more tragic with every episode. Also, as a Crunchyroll Anime of the Year award winner, Cyberpunk: Edgerunners certainly deserves the 3rd place.
2. Delicious in Dungeon
Hardly do we come across pure fantasy anime that stays true to its roots. But Delicious in Dungeon is one rare exception. Not only does it provide rich fantasy world-building, but in the later arcs, the narrative also becomes much darker. What starts as a chill monster-cooking anime slowly turns into one of the most gripping dark fantasy tales. And in every part of the journey, you will be left mesmerized by the series’ creativity. Therefore, Delicious in Dungeon swiftly secures the 2nd spot.
1. Pluto
Of every 21st-century sci-fi anime, no other series comes close to Pluto. The anime’s sheer thematic presentation makes it more than deserving of the title of the best Netflix Original anime. It addresses the very question of how much we should rely on robots. It also shows us how exactly a robot can start committing crimes. The answers to these questions are all in Pluto and are presented in the most believable way. The series even pays homage to Osamu Tezuka’s Astro Boy, which helps it gain further popularity.
| ANIME TITLE | RELEASE DATE | IMDb RATING (as of August 5, 2026) |
| 30. KENGAN ASHURA | July 31, 2019 | 7.9/10 |
| 29. BAKI | June 25, 2018 | 6.8/10 |
| 28. BLAME! | October 24, 2003 | 6.2/10 |
| 27. Kakegurui | July 1, 2017 | 7.1/10 |
| 26. The Way of the Househusband | April 8, 2021 | 7.3/10 |
| 25. Godzilla Singular Point | April 1, 2021 | 6.5/10 |
| 24. SAKAMOTO DAYS | January 11, 2025 | 7.5/10 |
| 23. Record of Ragnarok | June 17, 2021 | 6.6/10 |
| 22. Cosmic Princess Kaguya! | January 22, 2026 | 7.1/10 |
| 21. Blue Box | October 3, 2024 | 8.0/10 |
| 20. Lookism | December 8, 2022 | 7.6/10 |
| 19. Super Crooks | November 25, 2021 | 7.1/10 |
| 18. Komi Can’t Communicate | October 7, 2021 | 7.6/10 |
| 17. Sparks of Tomorrow | July 5, 2026 | 7.0/10 |
| 16. Lost in Starlight | May 30, 2025 | 7.0/10 |
| 15. Japan Sinks: 2020 | July 9, 2020 | 6.4/10 |
| 14. The Ramparts of Ice | April 2, 2026 | 8.0/10 |
| 13. Uncle from Another World | July 6, 2022 | 7.3/10 |
| 12. Maboroshi | September 15, 2023 | 6.4/10 |
| 11. AJIN: Demi-Human | January 16, 2016 | 7.5/10 |
| 10. BEASTARS | October 10, 2019 | 7.6/10 |
| 9. Kotaro Lives Alone | March 10, 2022 | 8.3/10 |
| 8. Blue Period | October 2, 2021 | 7.6/10 |
| 7. Dorohedoro | January 13, 2020 | 8.1/10 |
| 6. The Fragrant Flower Blooms With Dignity | July 6, 2025 | 8.3/10 |
| 5. Great Pretender | July 9, 2020 | 7.8/10 |
| 4. Devilman Crybaby | January 5, 2018 | 7.6/10 |
| 3. Cyberpunk: Edgerunners | September 13, 2022 | 8.3/10 |
| 2. Delicious in Dungeon | January 4, 2024 | 8.1/10 |
| 1. Pluto | October 26, 2023 | 8.1/10 |
What are your thoughts on the entries above? And have we missed any of your other favorite Netflix Original Anime? If so, then feel free to share which one it is with us and other fellow weebs in the comments below.
