5 best anime shows on Netflix to watch (and 2 to skip)

Netflix has a diverse library of anime shows on its platform. In fact, it has become one of the main streaming homes for anime content. But while there are many options to choose from, not all of them are enjoyable to watch.

Obviously, the quality of anime shows on Netflix can be subjective, and what one may think is bad may be entertaining to somebody else. But I know how annoying and time-consuming it can be to find something good to watch on Netflix, especially anime shows.

That’s why I’m here to help you out by sharing a list of some of the best anime shows on Netflix as well as some that aren’t worth the watch. But remember, these are my opinions and you might not think the same. I just wanted to provide some anime suggestions in case you had no idea where to start.

Cyberpunk: Edgerunners

Watch! Based on the video game Cyberpunk 2077 by CD Projekt Red, Cyberpunk: Edgerunners follows a street kid trying to survive in an autonomous metropolis of the future known for its rampant crime and social inequality as well as its advanced technology and cybernetic enhancements. With everything to lose, he makes the choice to stay alive by becoming an edgerunner, a mercenary outlaw and cyber-enhanced individual.

It’s beautifully animated, has an engaging plot, and will definitely pull at your heartstrings with some scenes. It also has an amazing soundtrack. I wish a second season was happening, but unfortunately, it was already planned as a one-and-done type of series.

Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba

Watch! Adding Demon Slayer to the list was a no-brainer. Regarded as one of the top anime series of all time, you absolutely must check it out if you haven’t already. It has a unique plot, top-notch visuals, and well-developed characters. It’s also well-paced which keeps viewers engaged.

The story’s set in historical fantasy Japan, and centers around a young boy named Tanjiro Kamado, who strives to become a demon slayer after his family is slaughtered by demons and his sister is turned into one. He sets out on a mission to avenge his family and cure his demon sister.

There have been four seasons so far which are all streaming on Netflix. A fifth season which is titled Demon Slayer: Hashira Training Arc will be coming in the future. An official release date is unknown at the moment.

JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure

Skip! Unpopular opinion, but I don’t get the hype over JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure. I don’t think it’s a bad show, but it’s not something I’ll faithfully watch. While the art style of the characters is unique, it’s somewhat off-putting to me. If you prefer more traditionally styled anime characters, you might want to skip out on this one. Also, the plot isn’t that interesting to me and the show can be slow-paced at times. However, I will say that the show has an incredible soundtrack.

One Piece

Watch! I absolutely love One Piece. It’s not a show that everyone would enjoy, but it’s definitely entertaining to me. Considered one of the most beloved anime series, it’s based on Eiichiro Oda’s bestselling manga series of the same name. It begins with young pirate Monkey D. Luffy as he puts together a pirate crew, finds a ship, and sets sail across the dangerous ocean in search of the One Piece so that he can finally become King of the Pirates.

Overall, it’s an anime with a compelling narrative, loveable characters, and stunning visuals. It also has incredibly detailed world-building.

High-Rise Invasion

Skip! I recommend skipping on High-Rise Invasion. While it does have an interesting concept, it fails to keep its viewers entertained throughout. There’s little to no character development, and the story suffers from pacing issues. Also, most of the characters are lacking in complexity making them uninteresting and dull. Honestly, the best part about the show is the animation, and that’s not enough to keep me watching.

Castlevania

Watch! Technically, Castlevania is not an anime since it’s a Western animation and not a Japanese animation. However, Netflix labels it as an anime so that’s why I included it on the list.

Based on the popular Japanese video game series of the same name by Konami, Castlevania follows a group of vampire hunters as they battle the vampire lord Dracula and his minions to save mankind.

It’s an anime series full of well-animated action sequences and unique twists. The voice acting is great as well with the voice actors giving strong performances. There’s also strong character development with the complex characters evolving and growing over the seasons. But overall, the best part about this series is that it’s a faithful adaptation of its source material.

There are four seasons of the show on Netflix. Also, there’s a follow-up series titled Castlevania: Nocturne available to stream as well.

Zom 100: Bucket List of the Dead

Watch! Zom 100: Bucket List of the Dead is one of the best anime series of 2023 in my opinion. It’s an anime adaptation of the Japanese manga series of the same name by Haro Aso, and follows an overworked office worker who decides to finally live life to the fullest when a zombie apocalypse hits Japan.

I started watching this show thinking it was going to be your typical zombie series, but I was pleasantly surprised by how enjoyable it was. Although it has a simple premise, it manages to still keep viewers thoroughly entertained. It’s also beautifully animated and action-packed. It’s an ongoing anime series on Netflix, with there being three episodes left. However, it’s currently on hiatus.

Stay tuned to Netflix Life for more anime show recommendations!