Drawing inspiration from the varied social dynamics of the United States, producing anime set in America is a strategic move by the industry to appeal to Western viewers. These anime also provide a unique glimpse into socio-cultural realities beyond the typical Japanese setting.
Many popular anime, including Banana Fish, take place in America and tackle themes and social issues such as drug addiction, organized crime, and criminal activities. While they may contain graphic and visually intense scenes, they offer a unique perspective on the American underworld.
Among the numerous anime sets available in America, these ten options from the list are recommended for anime fans to explore.
Please note that the views expressed are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of anyone else.
From Banana Fish to Gunsmith Cats, here’s a list of the 10 best anime set in America, Ranked
10) Suicide Squad Isekai
The Suicide Squad Isekai is a reimagining of the popular DCEU film Suicide Squad (2016). In this version, rather than facing off against the Enchantress in Gotham City, the team is transported to a fantastical realm by A. R. G. U. S.
A. R. G. U. S. assembles a team of dangerous criminals known as the “Suicide Squad”, consisting of Harley Quinn, Deadshot, Clayface, Peacemaker, and King Shark. These individuals are controlled by explosive devices implanted in their necks and are sent on a mission under the guidance of agent Rick Flag.
Similar to the film Suicide Squad, this anime also features a unique and eccentric storyline and character designs. It is one of the most entertaining series set in a fantasy world and also in America.
Gunsmith Cats
Gunsmith Cats is an intriguing thriller anime featuring Rally, the owner of the titular gunshop- Gunsmith Cats, which evolves into a full-fledged organization. The series delves into the personal and professional lives of Rally and her associates, as well as their complex relationships within the gun industry.
As Rally, Minnie, Misty, and Becky come into contact with Gray and Goldie, the plot becomes even more intriguing. This captivating anime showcases the American underworld and is considered one of the top thriller series set in America.
Petshop of Horrors
The Petshop of Horrors is a supernatural horror anime that takes place in Los Angeles. The series follows Count D, who manages a secretive pet shop that is hidden from public view.
The anime presents a captivating storyline revolving around the supernatural pets in Count D’s pet shop. The series is structured in an episodic format, with each episode featuring different incidents that occur within the pet shop.
Despite being set in America, Petshop of Horrors is still able to captivate horror fans with its intriguing plot, solidifying its place as one of the top horror anime series.
Eden of the East
Although not entirely set in America, Eden of the East is still considered one of the top sci-fi anime of this decade. Its ranking may be lower on this list due to its international setting. The anime opens with Yuki’s chance encounter with Takizawa in front of the White House during her graduation trip.
The anime centers on a mysterious game called “Selecao,”in which players work to save Japan from various challenges. The storyline follows a game of cat and mouse between the members of Eden and Monobe. As Monobe attempts to create obstacles, Takizawa, aided by Yuki and others, strives to overcome them.
Takizawa continuously erases his memory as he faces “The Outsider,”who is scheming to seize control of Japan.
Red Garden: A Beautiful and Mysterious Anime Series
The 2006 anime Red Garden follows a girl group with complex and conflicting relationships, a mysterious disappearance, and a captivating plot. While the initial premise may seem reminiscent of the American drama Pretty Little Liars, Red Garden offers a much deeper and intriguing story.
“The plot of Red Garden centers on four friends – Kate, Rachel, Rose, and Claire – who find themselves caught in an age-old conflict between the Animus and Dolore clans. This anime is highly praised for its well-developed characters and intriguing storyline, solidifying its position as a top mystery series set in America.”
5) Days
The 2016 anime, 91 Days tells the story of vengeance within the American Mafia during the time of Prohibition. The series chronicles Angelo Lagusa’s journey to seek retribution against Don Vincenzo Vanetti.
The anime centers around themes of recurring violence, the criminal underworld, and the black market. The story concludes in just 91 days, providing intense action sequences in a tense atmosphere. As an anime set in America, 91 Days offers a compelling choice for viewers.
Great Pretender
The anime Great Pretenders, released in 2020, boasts a highly distinctive plot that revolves around a group of con artists known as ‘Team Confidence’ who specialize in defrauding unsuspecting individuals.
The main focus of this story is on Makoto Edamura, a Japanese con artist who is determined to become the best in his craft. Despite his strong ambition, he encounters challenges due to his affiliation with the Edamura family.
As time passes, the plot becomes more captivating as the con artists intersect and encounter troubles with the mafia and the criminal underworld.
What a racket!
Baccano! takes place during the infamous “Prohibition era” of American history. The story follows a captivating plot as alchemists, thieves, thugs, mafia members, and camorristas all compete in their search for the elusive “elixir of immortality” .
The story begins in 1711, with a group of alchemists attempting to obtain the ‘elixir of immortality’ from the demon race through a ritual. However, due to internal conflicts, the group is forced to disband and its members scatter across the world. In present times, either their descendants or numerous underworld mercenaries are desperately searching for the coveted elixir.
The anime has gained popularity in America due to its complex and captivating storyline.
2) Banana Fish
Despite its focus on the American criminal underworld and Mafia organizations, the 2018 anime Banana Fish, with its main character Ash Lynx’s immense popularity, remains one of the most highly sought-after anime series in America, much like 91 Days.
The anime chronicles the experiences of Ash Lynx as he embarks on a quest to locate the dangerous substance known as Banana Fish. As Ash delves deeper into his mission, the storyline becomes increasingly complex, involving conflicts with rivals, government cover-ups, and political turmoil.
Although the anime initially focuses on gang rivalry in the American underworld, it later delves into the realities of American and world history.
Cyberpunk: Edgerunners
The 2022 anime Cyberpunk: Edgerunners accurately portrays a post-apocalyptic future, specifically the city of Night City in California in the year 2076.
The anime depicts the journey of David Martinez as he navigates the dangerous criminal world of the city at night in order to survive as an ‘Edgerunner’. Although the main focus is on Martinez, the anime also highlights the political isolation and alienation, the stark contrast between the wealthy and impoverished, and the societal conditions of the location.
Despite being set in a post-apocalyptic future, Cyberpunk: Edgerunners draws inspiration from the contemporary American underworld and social hierarchy, making it arguably the greatest anime ever set in America.
Final Thoughts
The setting plays a crucial role in shaping any work of art, as it establishes the thematic and cultural context. Anime that takes place in America can also offer valuable insights into the Eastern perspective on the Western world.
Anime set in America provides a distinct portrayal of American society, culture, and political situations. Nevertheless, they contribute to the diversity of the animeverse by incorporating captivating storylines involving the mafia, underworld, mercenaries, and politics.
- 8 historical anime set outside of Japan
- 10 most underrated shonen anime series, ranked
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