Top Netflix Original Anime Series: Recommendations & Reddit's Best

Hey anime lovers! Looking for the best Netflix original anime? You've come to the right place. With Netflix constantly adding new titles, it can be tough to sort through them all and find the real gems. That's why we're diving deep into the world of Netflix anime, highlighting some must-watch series and tapping into the wisdom of the Reddit anime community to bring you the ultimate list. Whether you're a seasoned anime veteran or just starting your journey, get ready to discover your next favorite show!

Discovering Anime on Netflix

Netflix has become a major player in the anime scene, producing and distributing a wide variety of original anime content. This includes everything from adaptations of popular manga to completely original stories. The appeal of Netflix anime lies in its accessibility – with a single subscription, viewers can access a vast library of anime from around the world, often with high-quality dubs and subtitles. This has opened up anime to a much wider audience, allowing more people to discover and enjoy this unique form of storytelling. The platform's investment in anime also means that we're seeing more diverse and ambitious projects, pushing the boundaries of what anime can be. Plus, Netflix's recommendation algorithm can be pretty helpful in suggesting new shows based on your viewing history. But let's be real, sometimes you need a little human guidance, and that's where this guide comes in! We'll explore different genres, art styles, and narratives to help you find something that perfectly matches your taste. So buckle up, grab your favorite snack, and get ready to explore the exciting world of Netflix original anime!

Our Top Netflix Original Anime Recommendations

Let's dive into some specific recommendations! I've hand-picked these based on critical acclaim, popularity, and just plain old personal enjoyment. These top Netflix original anime are diverse, and sure to have something that appeals to everyone. I'll highlight a few of my absolute favorites, giving you the lowdown on what makes them so special.

Devilman Crybaby

Devilman Crybaby is a visually stunning and emotionally charged adaptation of Go Nagai's classic manga. This isn't your typical superhero story; it's a dark, intense, and often disturbing exploration of humanity, love, and the nature of good and evil. The story follows Akira Fudo, a shy and sensitive young man who merges with a demon to become Devilman, gaining incredible power but also inheriting the demon's aggressive nature. As more demons emerge, Akira must fight to protect humanity, while grappling with his own inner demons and the moral complexities of his new existence. What sets Devilman Crybaby apart is its bold and experimental animation style, directed by Masaaki Yuasa. The fluid, expressive animation perfectly captures the raw emotion and chaotic energy of the story. The soundtrack is also phenomenal, adding another layer of depth and intensity to the viewing experience. Devilman Crybaby isn't for the faint of heart, but if you're looking for a thought-provoking and visually arresting anime that will stay with you long after you've finished watching, this is a must-see. It's a rollercoaster of emotions, and while it can be brutal at times, it's also a powerful and unforgettable story about love, loss, and the fight for humanity.

Violet Evergarden

In contrast to the dark and intense world of Devilman Crybaby, Violet Evergarden offers a more gentle and emotionally resonant experience. This beautifully animated series follows Violet, a young woman who was raised as a weapon in war. After the war ends, she struggles to adapt to a peaceful life and understand human emotions. She becomes an Auto Memory Doll, a ghostwriter who helps people express their feelings in letters. Through her work, Violet gradually learns about love, loss, and the complexities of the human heart. Violet Evergarden is a masterclass in visual storytelling. The animation is breathtakingly beautiful, with stunning backgrounds, detailed character designs, and incredibly expressive animation. The series is also incredibly moving, exploring themes of grief, trauma, and the search for meaning in life. Each episode tells a unique story, focusing on different characters and their struggles. Violet's journey of self-discovery is both heartbreaking and inspiring, and the series is sure to leave you with a lump in your throat. If you're looking for an anime that is both visually stunning and emotionally resonant, Violet Evergarden is an absolute must-watch. Be prepared to shed a few tears, but also to be uplifted by the beauty and humanity of this exceptional series.

Aggretsuko

For something a little lighter and more relatable, check out Aggretsuko. This hilarious and surprisingly insightful series follows Retsuko, a red panda who works as an office lady in a Japanese trading company. Retsuko is constantly frustrated by her demanding boss, annoying coworkers, and the general pressures of office life. To cope with her stress, she vents her frustrations through death metal karaoke. Aggretsuko is a brilliant satire of modern office culture, exploring themes of sexism, burnout, and the search for happiness in a capitalist society. Retsuko is a relatable and endearing character, and her struggles will resonate with anyone who has ever felt overwhelmed by their job. The series is also incredibly funny, with sharp writing, witty dialogue, and plenty of visual gags. But beneath the humor, Aggretsuko also offers a surprisingly poignant look at the challenges of adulthood and the importance of finding healthy ways to cope with stress. If you're looking for an anime that will make you laugh, think, and maybe even feel a little bit better about your own life, Aggretsuko is a perfect choice.

Reddit's Take: The Community Speaks

Okay, so those are my personal picks, but what does the Reddit anime community think are the best Netflix original anime? I did some digging through various anime subreddits to see what shows were consistently being recommended and praised.

Popular Recommendations

• Cyberpunk: Edgerunners: This is a series that consistently receives high praise. Set in the world of Cyberpunk 2077, this visually stunning and action-packed anime tells the story of David Martinez, a street kid trying to survive in a dystopian city obsessed with technology and body modification. The animation is top-notch, the characters are compelling, and the story is both thrilling and heartbreaking. Many Redditors praise its faithfulness to the source material and its ability to capture the gritty, neon-drenched atmosphere of Night City. Be warned, it's a violent and mature series, but if you're a fan of cyberpunk or action anime, this is a must-watch. The world building is incredible, and the soundtrack is absolutely killer, perfectly complementing the fast-paced action and emotional drama.
• Dorohedoro: This is another one that comes up frequently in Reddit discussions. Dorohedoro is a bizarre and brutal anime set in a dystopian world where magic users experiment on humans. The story follows Caiman, a man with a reptile head who is searching for the magic user who transformed him. The series is known for its dark humor, over-the-top violence, and unique character designs. Redditors appreciate its originality and its willingness to take risks. It's not for everyone, but if you're looking for something completely different and a little bit weird, Dorohedoro might be right up your alley. The world is incredibly detailed and imaginative, and the characters are all memorable and quirky. Be prepared for some seriously messed-up stuff, but also for a lot of laughs along the way.

Hidden Gems According to Reddit

• Japan Sinks: 2020: Okay, this one is a bit controversial, but hear me out. Some Redditors defend Japan Sinks: 2020 as a thought-provoking and emotionally resonant disaster anime. Directed by Masaaki Yuasa (the same guy who did Devilman Crybaby), this series follows a family struggling to survive as Japan is devastated by a series of catastrophic earthquakes. The animation style is unique and sometimes jarring, and the story can be bleak and depressing. However, some Redditors argue that its unconventional approach is what makes it so powerful, capturing the chaos and despair of a natural disaster. It's definitely not a feel-good anime, but if you're looking for something that will challenge you and make you think, it might be worth checking out. Just be prepared for some unconventional storytelling and a potentially upsetting viewing experience.

Finding What's Right for You

So, there you have it! A mix of my personal favorites and the best Netflix original anime, according to the discerning eyes of Reddit. But ultimately, the best anime is the one that you enjoy the most. Don't be afraid to try out different genres, art styles, and studios until you find something that clicks with you. And don't let anyone tell you what you should or shouldn't like! The world of anime is vast and diverse, so there's bound to be something out there for everyone.

Final Thoughts

Netflix has become an invaluable platform for anime fans, offering a diverse range of original series. By exploring these recommendations and venturing into the discussions on Reddit, you're well-equipped to discover your next anime obsession. Happy watching, guys! Remember to share your own favorite Netflix original anime in the comments below – I'm always looking for new recommendations! Also remember to support the creators of these amazing shows whenever possible.