8 Best Anime To Watch On Netflix

Anime, a captivating form of entertainment, offers excitement with its dramatic battles and extraordinary narratives such as “Attack on Titan”. This genre is rapidly expanding, and it’s becoming increasingly apparent that many find it appealing.

Today, many homes now enjoy easy access to a vast array of anime through popular streaming services such as Netflix. Consequently, if you’re an anime enthusiast or newcomer seeking outstanding anime series to watch, let me recommend these eight essential shows currently streaming on Netflix.

8. Monster

A Choice That Changed Everything

As a devoted fan, I can confidently say that this psychological thriller, derived from Naoki Urasawa’s manga, is undoubtedly one of the most intricate and sophisticated anime ever produced. Back in 2004, it paved the way by delving into themes seldom explored in anime, garnering universal critical acclaim and a flawless rating from numerous esteemed anime magazines.

The tale unfolds around Dr. Kenzo Tenma, an exceptional neurosurgeon, who opted to save a young child over a high-ranking politician. This choice sets off a long-term narrative exploring the essence of evil, as the boy he saved matures into a chilling serial killer exuding captivating charm.

The complete 74-episode run of this series can be found on Netflix, offering both subtitles and voiceovers. However, it’s the English dub, with Liam O’Brien voicing Dr. Tenma, that has garnered much acclaim for its ability to convey the show’s moody noir ambiance.

7. Hunter X Hunter

Boy Who Searched For His Father, But Found Himself

This renowned shonen-style series stretches across a remarkable 148 episodes, leaving fans eagerly demanding more. The 2011 reinterpretation by Madhouse studio elevated Yoshihiro Togashi’s manga into one of the highest-rated anime series ever, consistently boasting an exceptional 9.1/10 rating on MyAnimeList.

The narrative centers around Gon Freecss, a young lad on a quest to become a Hunter in search of his long-lost father. Throughout his journey, he establishes a connection with Killua Zoldyck, a former assassin haunted by a troubled past. Initially, the storyline seems typical of adventure tales, but as it progresses, it morphs into something far grittier and intricate. Particularly noteworthy is the Chimera Ant arc, often praised by fans as one of the most exceptional arcs in anime history, showcasing a darker and more complex side to the narrative.

Many fans suggest that for an authentic appreciation of Megumi Han’s renowned portrayal of Gon, viewers should opt for the subtitled version on Netflix.

6. Haikyu!!

A Short Player With Big Dreams

It’s not necessary for all anime to feature battles and superpowers in order to be thrilling. “Haikyu!!” demonstrates that sports anime can generate the same level of excitement as any shonen fight. By focusing on Shoyo Hinata, a compact yet resilient volleyball player, the series beautifully encapsulates the essence of competition and teamwork in a way that no other does.

2014 marked the debut of “Haikyu!!”, a series that swiftly amassed an enormous fanbase, captivating even those indifferent to volleyball. The character development is nothing short of remarkable, as each member of Karasuno High’s volleyball team emerges as a fully-realized individual, rather than a mere side character. The matches are animated with breathtaking fluidity, ensuring that every spike, block, and dive resonates deeply.

Due to its significant impact, the anime managed to spark genuine curiosity about volleyball within Japan itself. You can watch the English version of this popular series on Netflix now.

5. Parasyte: The Maxim

A Hand That Was Never His

First created as a manga in the late 80s, this series didn’t get an anime version until 2014 – that’s almost 25 years later! But the wait was definitely worth it because the show combined body horror with deep philosophical questions, which earned it near-perfect ratings on various anime review sites.

An extraterrestrial force has infiltrated Earth, seizing control of human bodies by embedding themselves within their brains. However, when one of these invaders fails to penetrate Shinichi Izumi’s brain, instead occupying his right hand, the two entities find themselves sharing a body and must learn to live together as they fend off other aliens who view them as potential threats.

In 2015, the series’ popularity resulted in a live-action movie version, but some viewers believe the anime more effectively conveys the grotesque physical aspects that set the initial comic apart. Netflix provides the anime in both Japanese and English versions, allowing fans to choose their preferred language.

4. Tokyo Ghoul

Be Careful What You Wish For

2014 saw high anticipation for “Tokyo Ghoul,” an anime adaptation from Sui Ishida’s manga series. Its initial season was a resounding success, captivating audiences with its eerie soundtrack, brooding ambiance, and heart-wrenching transformation of Kaneki, a human character, into a half-ghoul. However, the anime deviated considerably from the original manga, particularly in later seasons, leading to a split among fans regarding the series’ direction.

Initially, Ken Kaneki led a normal life as a college student. However, a seemingly ordinary date with a captivating woman transformed into a nightmarish ordeal for him. Near death’s edge, he underwent a lifesaving organ transplant, but there was a twist: the organs were derived from a cannibalistic ghoul.

The influence of “Tokyo Ghoul” on anime culture is clear, and an English dubbed version offers a strong option for those who find it more appealing. If one can set aside differences with the original content, “Tokyo Ghoul” remains a thrilling, emotionally charged journey.

3. 86 (Eighty-Six)

The War That Wasn’t Theirs To Fight

In 2021, an intense military sci-fi anime series, dealing with mature themes of discrimination and conflict – seldom encountered in the mecha genre – swept through the anime community like a tempest. The intricate plotline of this show won it the “Best Drama” accolade at the Crunchyroll Anime Awards.

Beneath the tranquil facade of this nation, a chilling revelation surfaces: its military triumphs hinge on coercing an oppressed minority to control mechanical weapons against automated machines. These operatives are known as “86” – they’re just numbers, not people, in the government’s perspective.

The show is distinguished by its innovative take on mecha construction, with it opting for spider-like combat machines known as “Juggernauts,” instead of typical humanoid robot designs.

In the creation process, A-1 Pictures didn’t hold back on the high-quality production, ensuring a top-notch viewing experience for their audience. Notably, the English dub version accessible on Netflix showcases Billy Kametz in one of his last acting roles before his unfortunate death in 2022.

2. Spy X Family

The Family That Never Was

In a surprising twist, a secret agent, a hired killer, and a mind-reader disguise themselves as a makeshift family in a home. The animated series “Spy x Family” ingeniously transforms this quirky scenario into one of the most touching and enjoyable shows from contemporary anime offerings.

In the storyline, Loid Forger, a covert operative, is tasked with constructing a sham family as part of his mission. What he’s unaware of is that his supposed spouse is an assassin, and his “child” has psychic abilities, able to read minds. The blend of action, humor, and heartwarming family scenes makes this series appealing to both seasoned anime fans and newcomers alike.

Debuting in 2022, this series immediately captured hearts, and its English-dubbed version retains the same endearing quality as the original. For those seeking a mix of humor and action that’s easy on the eyes, “Spy x Family” is an excellent choice.

1. Vinland Saga

A Story Carved In Blood And Honor

history seldom favors the vengeful; that lesson was painfully learned by Thorfinn, a young warrior in the Viking age. The narrative of “Vinland Saga” unfolds as a story about conflict, grief, and the pursuit of a life untouched by violence.

Drawing inspiration from actual historical occurrences, this anime is an animated rendition of Makoto Yukimura’s graphic novel, offering stunning visuals and unflinching realism. The initial season primarily revolves around Thorfinn’s relentless pursuit of vengeance, while the subsequent season delves into a profound tale of atonement.

This anime can be watched with either subtitles or voice-overs, and its remarkable attention to historical detail sets it apart within its genre. If you enjoyed “Attack on Titan,” there’s a good chance that you’ll find this one to be your new favorite anime as well.

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2025-02-13 23:12