Best Steampunk Anime

Best Steampunk Anime

Key Takeaways

  • Steampunk anime fuses steam-powered technology with alternative worlds and mysticism, capturing fans’ interest.
  • Shows like Appare-Ranman! and Deca-Dence offer unique and well-acclaimed steampunk settings for viewers.
  • Castle In The Sky, Metropolis, and Trigun are recognized classics in the genre, blending steampunk aesthetics with intriguing stories.

As a connoisseur of anime with a particular penchant for steam-powered adventures, I must say that these three masterpieces are nothing short of extraordinary!


Steampunk, a subgenre of retro-futuristic science fiction, has captured audiences worldwide with its unique blend of Victorian-era aesthetics and the gritty mechanical practicality of industrialism. While the steampunk genre is not the most popular of genres portrayed in various anime shows, some anime shows have managed to portray steampunk to a degree that has fans wanting more.

Steampunk anime is truly distinctive as it transports viewers to alternative worlds where steam-powered machinery, clockwork contraptions, and a touch of mysticism reign supreme. Despite only a few anime series portraying themes of steampunk, some series have become well-known and widely acclaimed.

For enthusiasts of the steampunk style, series like Appare-Ranman! and Deca-Dence offer exciting prospects. While these shows might not surpass timeless classics such as Castle In The Sky and Metropolis, they hold their own against other steampunk productions and are particularly notable for their distinctive steampunk environments.

17 Appare-Ranman!

Adventure With Retro-Futuristic Technology

Best Steampunk Anime
TitleAppare-Ranman!
Number of Episodes13
Where to StreamCrunchyroll

Regardless of its brief 13-episode run, fans who’ve watched “Appare-Ranman!” have developed a fondness for this unique spin on adventure-style anime, seamlessly blending steampunk themes. Unlike many steampunk productions that depict the end of the world or an impending catastrophe, “Appare-Ranman!” presents a tale of two contrasting characters pursuing their own objectives and learning to coexist.

As an inventive dreamer, often found on the fringes of social norms, I, Appare Sorano, yearn to conquer the vast oceans, soar through the skies, and venture beyond the moon’s horizon. My quirks and unpredictable nature are kept in check by my companion, Kosame Isshiki, a samurai. Together, we find ourselves stranded in the bustling city of Los Angeles. A chance arises—construct a car, join the Trans-America Wild Race, secure the winnings, and journey home. However, as with all dreams, it’s not as simple as it sounds.

16 Samurai 7

Futuristic Tech Meets Steampunk In Feudal Japan

Best Steampunk Anime
TitleSamurai 7
Number of Episodes26
Where to StreamCrunchyroll

This particular anime series may not be the most widely recognized when comparing steampunk productions. Yet, its distinctive combination of traditional craftsmanship with advanced steampunk mechanics sets it apart from others in a unique manner. Samurai 7 depicts a struggle between seven distinct samurai, each possessing different abilities, and bandits who are being oppressed by unscrupulous merchants.

Intriguingly enough, what sets these rogues apart isn’t your average banditry, but rather former samurai who’ve been re-engineered with an array of steam-driven weapons. Not only that, this captivating series showcases a multitude of steam-powered cities in a future setting. The blend of colossal steam robots with traditional Japanese culture, coupled with intense battles, makes for a riveting watch and cements its place as a notable gem within the steampunk genre.

15 Deca-Dence

Post-Apocalyptic Themes Give Steampunk Aesthetic

Best Steampunk Anime

In this unique anime series, the world is depicted as a post-apocalyptic landscape where humans continue their struggle against the destructive Gadoll beings. To manage daily operations, humanity created cyborgs for various tasks, while humans themselves were restricted to a massive mobile citadel. Facing imminent extinction, humanity did not surrender passively but split into two groups: the Gears who fight the Gadoll, and the Tankers who maintain infrastructure, weapons, and resources.

In the realm of steampunk productions, Deca-Dence distinguishes itself with its contrasting mechanical versus organic theme and its visually striking steampunk milieu. The narrative unfolds within an expansive steam-powered citadel, serving as home to the surviving human populace. Beyond these steam-driven fortifications lie desolate wastelands marred by conflict, which encapsulates the essence of steampunk: the integration of steam-powered technology in a post-apocalyptic landscape amidst harsh conditions.

14 Violet Evergarden

A Coming-Of-Age Story With A Steampunk Aesthetic

Best Steampunk Anime

After the war concludes, Violet Evergarden – once a young maiden bred for battle – embarks on a new chapter in life. Having lost her hands during the conflict, she is equipped with prosthetics and begins work as an auto-memory doll, essentially serving as a professional ghostwriter, assisting others in articulating their feelings through written correspondence.

In this captivating anime series, while the narrative may not be centered around its steam-powered world, the visual aesthetic and architectural designs pay homage to the grandeur of the Victorian age. Furthermore, by skillfully blending different technological epochs, the steampunk ambiance is presented subtly yet undeniably, weaving an intricate tapestry that breathes life into this unique blend of past and future.

13 Howl’s Moving Castle

Old-Fashioned But Intriguing

Best Steampunk Anime

In a slightly rephrased manner: The animated film “Howl’s Moving Castle”, produced by Studio Ghibli, may appear traditional, but its captivating storyline and steampunk elements continue to enthrall viewers today. This enchanting tale follows the journey of a young hatmaker named Sophie, who is transformed into an elderly woman after an encounter with the Witch of the Waste, due to a minor run-in with Howl.

In search of a means to lift the spell cast upon her, Sophie journeys through various realms until she discovers the enchanted castle that roams about, inhabited by an assortment of odd creatures. Since both Sophie and Howl are burdened with curses, they form an alliance to confront the witch from the Waste and change their fortunes for the better.

12 The Case Study Of Vanitas

Vampires and Steampunk Create A Unique Story

Best Steampunk Anime

Because other vampires scorned him due to his unique birth during a blue moon, the vampire named Vanitas vowed retribution against his own kind. To carry out his revenge, Vanitas crafted an artifact – the Book of Vanitas – capable of meddling with the fundamental source of vampires’ power: their names.

In time, Vanitas’ human disciple roams about carrying the book of Vanitas, adopting the name Vanitas himself. During his travels, he encounters a vampire named Noé Archiviste who is in pursuit of the book of Vanitas. As they traverse a world steeped in steampunk aesthetics, they encounter various vampires, meting out justice or offering remedy to them. This captivating blend of steampunk motifs and dark fantasy elements has earned The Case Study of Vanitas a place among the most cherished works within the steampunk genre.

11 Steam Detectives

The Megamatons Make The Steampunk Aesthetic Evident

Best Steampunk Anime
TitleKaiketsu Jouki Tanteidan
Number of Episodes26
Where to StreamCrunchyroll

In an era dominated by steam power as the main energy source, the steam engine has emerged as a key technological breakthrough. Yet, much like other inventions, it too possesses certain limitations. The steam engine’s advent has given rise to colossal robots known as Megamatons. Unfortunately, these intelligent machines have fallen into the wrong hands of nefarious villains who manipulate them for their malicious purposes.

In the meantime, Narutaki – a child prodigy detective and son of Steam City’s most renowned detective – teams up with Nurse Ling Ling and her creation, Goriki. This dynamic trio thwarts evil doers like Phantom Knight and Dr. Guilty, who stir up turmoil and anarchy in their steam-driven universe.

10 Kabaneri Of The Iron Fortress

Steampunk Technology Must Be Used To Battle Kabaneri

Best Steampunk Anime
Japanese TitleKōtetsujō no Kabaneri
Number of Episodes12
Where to StreamCrunchyroll

In the series Kabaneri of the Iron Fortress, we find ourselves in a post-apocalyptic steampunk world, where the landscape is dominated by zombie-like monsters known as Kabane. Survivors live within fortified cities, and to safeguard themselves, they utilize armored steam trains that link these cities together.

The anime series centers on Ikoma, a young steamsmith who developed a specially designed steam-powered weapon named the ‘Piercing Gun.’ During a dreadful encounter with the Kabane, Ikoma gets the chance to test his piercing gun, which proves successful but gets bitten in the process. He manages to stop the virus from reaching his brain, transforming himself into a human/kabane hybrid called Kabaneri. With Ikoma’s unique transformation, this steampunk anime beautifully combines thrilling battles and an intricate plot.

9 Clockwork Planet

A Clockwork Planet Begins To Breakdown

Best Steampunk Anime
Japanese TitleKurokkuwāku Puranetto
Number of Episodes12
Where to StreamPrime Video, Crunchyroll

Following the demise of Earth, a brilliant inventor called Y breathed life back into the planet using mechanical gears and intricate clockworks, earning it the name “The Clockwork Planet.” The narrative centers around Naoto Miura, a youthful enthusiast of machinery, who yearns to become an exceptional clockmaker.

For young Naoto, life takes an unexpected turn when he stumbles upon a robot named RyuZu that fell through his roof in a crate. RyuZU was created by none other than Y and had been dormant for centuries. RyuZU’s appearance brings Naoto into contact with Dr. Marie Bell Breguet, the youngest meister ever, skilled engineers, and her bodyguard, Vainney Halter. As they uncover a disturbing revelation, they join forces to thwart a catastrophe that could bring about the end of the world.

8 Nadia: The Secret Of Blue Water

Steampunk Technology Under The Sea

Best Steampunk Anime
Japanese TitleFushigi no umi no Nadia
Number of Episodes39
Where to StreamPrime Video, Crunchyroll, Apple TV

As a devoted admirer of Jules Verne’s captivating novel “20,000 Leagues Under the Sea“, I find myself immersed in the thrilling world of “Nadia: The Secret of Blue Water“, an anime steeped in the genre of steampunk. In this series, I journey through a mesmerizing 19th-century alternate reality where a plucky young girl named Nadia and a brilliant young inventor named Jean intersect their lives around a mystifying gem known as the Blue Water.

As a gamer stepping into the steam-powered submarine Nautilus, I’ve been saved by Captain Nemo himself. With Nadia and Jean at my side, we’re teaming up with our enigmatic captain to delve into the mysteries of the Blue Water. Our mission: topple the Neo-Atlantean forces who seek global domination. This timeless anime is a must-watch for anyone captivated by the allure of steampunk.

7 Princess Principal

Steampunk and Espionage Is A Rare Combination

Best Steampunk Anime

In this imaginative steampunk take on 19th-century London, the Kingdom of Albion has been divided by a massive barrier as a result of the London Revolution. This wall, which lies west of the capital city Albion itself, splits the world’s most powerful kingdom into two distinct regions: the ancient Old Kingdom and the Commonwealth of Albion.

A quintet of teenage spies – Ange, Beatrice, Chise, Dorothy, and Princess Charlotte – secretly join the Queen’s Mayfair Academy as representatives from the Commonwealth, using their unique abilities for undercover operations in a world brimming with intrigue and advanced steam-powered technology.

6 Castle In The Sky

Pirates, Robots, And An Intriguing Story

Best Steampunk Anime

Castle in the Sky narrates the journey of Sheeta and Pazu as they set out to discover the hidden truths about Laputa, a magical floating fortress. Throughout their voyage, they cross paths with malicious government officials and rogue pirates who seek to exploit the castle’s secrets for their own gain.

In a unique blend of nature and technology, this Studio Ghibli gem sets its story within a captivating steampunk landscape. Renowned director Hayao Miyazaki brings to life the intricate engineering feats of steam-driven robots. First shown in the late 1900s, “Castle in the Sky” remains an engaging watch for fans of the steampunk genre, offering timeless appeal.

5 Trigun

Steampunk On Another Planet

Best Steampunk Anime

On the barren planet of Gunsmoke, known for its scarcity of resources, Vash the Stampede is a notorious figure, often referred to as an outlaw. However, the authorities aren’t the only ones who know him; many are aware that beneath this label of a dangerous criminal lies a pacifist at heart. Despite the government’s view, Vash attempts to steer clear of violence, but due to constant pursuit by bounty hunters, he is often forced into defensive battles.

In the realm teeming with rogue elements like outlaws and bounty hunters, Vash uncovers his enigmatic background. Along the way, he encounters Meryl and Milly who seek to punish him. Trigun skillfully combines steampunk style with a frontier vibe, presenting a narrative of atonement and ethics.

4 Metropolis

Sentient Beings Made From Steampunk Technology

Best Steampunk Anime
Japanese TitleMetoroporisu
Number of EpisodesN/A
Where to StreamN/A

This animated show takes place in a steampunk society, a blend of humans and robots coexisting amidst escalating turmoil and violence. In pursuit of Dr. Laughton, a scientist known for trafficking human organs, detective Shunsaku Ban along with his nephew make their way to the bustling city of Metropolis.

In contrast, things soon become chaotic when Detective Shunsaku Ban’s nephew, Kenichi, stumbles upon a girl of mysterious background. This girl, it turns out, is an artificially created robot manufactured by Dr. Laughton, following instructions from Duke Red, the city’s authority figure. What makes Metropolis and its steampunk atmosphere captivating is that the girl remains oblivious to her robotic nature until the final moments.

3 Steamboy

Limitless Steam Energy Can Change The World

Best Steampunk Anime
Japanese TitleSuchīmubōi
Number of EpisodesN/A
Where to StreamPrime Video

Under the skilled guidance of Katsuhiro Otomo, Steamboy emerges as a breathtaking animation in the steampunk genre, vividly depicting an alternate 19th-century Victorian era London, where steam-driven innovations become the main attraction.

The narrative unfolds around James Ray Steam, a youthful maintenance worker at Manchester Mill who doubles as an inventor. His world is flipped when his grandfather, the scientist Lloyd Steam, dispatches a parcel from the U.S. containing a remarkable artifact known as a Steam Ball. This device, capable of propelling any steam-powered machine with virtually unending energy, sets events in motion that significantly alter Ray’s life.

2 Last Exile

Adventure, War, And Steampunk In One Package

Best Steampunk Anime
Japanese TitleRasuto Eguzairu
Number of Episodes26
Where to StreamCrunchyroll, Prime Video

The animated series, Last Exile, transports audiences to the world of Prester, where travel predominantly occurs via air. A powerful entity called “the Guild” holds dominion over the skies, as they are the sole manufacturers of engines fueled by Claudia fluid – a crystallized substance that enables flight.

In this series, the nations of Anatoray and Disith find themselves embroiled in conflict. Amidst the turmoil, Claus and Lavie – both skilled Vanship pilots who primarily deliver mail – accept a lucrative task to transport a girl named Alvis Hamilton. Unbeknownst to them, their lives are on the brink of undergoing significant transformation due to the arrival of Alvis Hamilton.

1 Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood

Using Alchemy To Change The Laws Of Nature In A Steam-Powered World

Best Steampunk Anime

Set in a realm where alchemy seamlessly blends science and artistry, the siblings Edward and Alphonse Elric endeavor to resurrect their late mother by employing a clandestine, forbidden method of alchemical practice. Regrettably, their attempt goes awry: Alphonse finds himself without a physical form, while Edward loses both an arm and a leg.

With a strong resolve, the siblings embarked on an adventure in search of the fabled Philosopher’s Stone, a mythical object said to rejuvenate their physical forms. Although the story primarily revolves around alchemy, its intricate steampunk environment certainly catches the eye.

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2024-09-27 15:54