10 Best Thrilling Anime Like Ghost in the Shell That You Need to Watch

Ever since its release in 1995, Ghost in the Shell has been a standard-setter in the world of animated thrillers, captivating viewers with its mix of breathtaking visuals, profound philosophical concepts, and innovative science fiction elements.

This groundbreaking film centers around Major Motoko Kusanagi, a cyborg heroine who grapples with questions of self-identity in a technology-driven world. Its resonating impact has captivated audiences with its thrilling storyline and thought-provoking existential themes. For those seeking a captivating cinematic experience, this is a must-see film.

These 10 captivating anime, such as Ghost In The Shell, explore intricate themes surrounding identity, recollection, existence, and more, all within visually breathtaking sci-fi environments.

10 Must-Watch Anime Similar to Ghost in the Shell for Fans of Animated Thrillers

1. Serial Experiments Lain

Serial Experiments Lain (Image via Triangle Staff)

This thought-provoking anime, similar to Ghost In The Shell, follows the journey of introverted Lain Iwakura as she navigates the surreal world of the Wired, an all-encompassing virtual reality. Through enigmatic scenes, the series delves into the themes of memory, identity, and the intricate connection between technology and consciousness.

Similar to Ghost in the Shell, Serial Experiments Lain chooses to delve into complex intellectual inquiries instead of providing simple explanations regarding the concept of experiences, whether in the physical or digital realm. Its intricately woven plot offers a satisfying experience upon repeated watchings.

Steins;Gate

Rintarō Okabe, who refers to himself as a “mad scientist,”stumbles upon the ability to send messages to the past using a modified microwave. This discovery causes changes in the current World Lines, putting the well-being of his loved ones in jeopardy.

Similar to Ghost in the Shell, Steins;Gate employs science fiction elements to delve into the complex relationship between destiny, recollection, selfhood, and the nature of existence through intricate storylines that are bound to captivate viewers who enjoy films such as Ghost in the Shell.

3.Texhnolyze

The protagonist Ichise in this gritty cyberpunk story undergoes an experimental texhnolyzation process, which grants him enhanced abilities but at the cost of losing physical sensation. As he navigates through the dystopian underground Lux, tensions between factions rise, provoking reflections on the concept of transhumanism throughout the series.

Just like Major, who struggles with her own cybernetic existence between human and machine, Texhnolyze captivates viewers with its stunning visuals while delving into the idea of technology’s ability to enhance one’s capabilities but also separate them from their inherent humanity.

4. Ergo Proxy

In a dystopian world, a domed city is ruled by the all-powerful Proxies who tightly control the lives of citizens. Unbeknownst to them, a desolate wasteland exists beyond the seemingly flawless walls. However, the discovery of sentient AutoReiv androids causes the unraveling of their perceived reality.

Similar to Major’s journey focused on her cyberbrain, Ergo Proxy’s complex storyline explored through captivating experimental visuals will captivate audiences and prompt contemplation of individual agency and fate amidst ominous settings.

5. Psycho-Pass

In a not-too-distant future, where public sensors are constantly measuring citizens’ risk levels for psychopathy, investigator Akane Tsunemori relies on latent criminal hunters to locate and apprehend offenders. However, she begins to question the effectiveness of the system.

Similar to Ghost in the Shell, Psycho-Pass delves into the moral boundaries of technology and its potential to dehumanize society while also providing security. The compelling characters and unsettlingly realistic sci-fi setting make it a must-see for fans of animated movies such as Ghost in the Shell.

TV Show: Boogiepop Phantom

Boogiepop Phantom is a supernatural series that presents fragmented and intertwining narratives in nonlinear episodes. It challenges viewers to unravel the overarching mystery behind an urban legend about a personification of death who roams the night.

The narrative puzzles in Ghost in the Shell incorporate elements of surreal imagery and psychological tension, making it a favorite among fans who appreciate avant-garde and non-linear storytelling. The ending of the film presents a sense of malleability in reality, similar to other films like Ghost in the Shell, which appeals to a specific audience.

Top 7 Most Popular Anime Series

Neon Genesis Evangelion (Image via Gainax)

Despite living in a post-apocalyptic Earth constantly under threat from extraterrestrial creatures known as Angels, 14-year-old Shinji Ikari is chosen to operate Evangelion bio-robot combat mechs in order to protect humanity’s last stronghold. However, he soon discovers that both his enemies and the very foundations he fights for are not as straightforward as they appear.

Both Neon Genesis Evangelion and Ghost in the Shell captivate audiences by featuring apocalyptic sci-fi events and exploring philosophies about the ever-changing concept of existence. These thought-provoking themes of self-awareness and its consequences, which resonate with fans of Ghost In The Shell, add to the appeal of both shows.

8. Blame!

In this sci-fi anime movie, Killy, a cybernetic traveler, navigates through a seemingly never-ending, self-constructing megastructure that contains remnants of a lost human society that has been taken over by an AI network. Along the way, Killy faces off against hostile beings known as Safeguards. The anime’s haunting and minimalist tone effectively amplifies the impact of its existential themes.

Similar to Major questioning her ghost among machines, Killy’s connection to the all-shaping net while maintaining free will leads to contemplation about consciousness across both physical and digital realms, making it a thought-provoking topic for fans who enjoy animated works such as Ghost In The Shell.

9. Akira

Akira (Image via Tokyo Movie Shinsha (TMS))

Akira’s highly detailed and futuristic Neo Tokyo setting plays a significant role in solidifying anime’s position in the global film industry. Against this backdrop, the story follows characters with psychic abilities, involved in biker gangs and revolutionary schemes, as they grapple with the loss of their humanity and unravel mind-bending metaphysical themes.

Akira’s merging of breathtaking animation and thought-provoking inquiries into surpassing human limitations has undoubtedly influenced numerous contemporary sci-fi movies such as Ghost In The Shell, solidifying its status as a must-see.

10. Paranoia Agent

This psychological thriller, brought to us by the late visionary director Satoshi Kon, intricately weaves together intersecting storylines, all affected by the attacks across Tokyo from an ominous youth known as “Lil’ Slugger.”This individual is said to wield a bent golden baseball bat as he assaults his victims.

Similarly to Ghost in the Shell’s exploration of the unconscious Puppet Master, the surreal glimpses into the anxieties of characters in crisis raise questions about whether Lil’ Slugger is a manifestation of their fears. Additionally, both anime also incorporate a Hitchcockian level of tension.

Summing It Up

From the surreal deconstructions of identity in digital spaces found in Serial Experiments Lain to the dystopian futures that prompt reflections on humanity’s loss in Texhnolyze, fans of Ghost in the Shell’s sci-fi vision have plenty to delve into.