Anime set in space offers breathtaking depictions of extraterrestrial landscapes and futuristic technology. They invite viewers to embark on thrilling journeys through galaxies alongside captivating characters.
In addition, a vast array of genres is encompassed within space anime, ranging from thought-provoking science fiction that delves into the complexities of humanity, to intense battles between colossal spaceships in mecha form. This particular genre allows for the development of elaborate fictional worlds, complete with advanced technology and extraterrestrial societies.
For anime enthusiasts seeking to delve into captivating space narratives, here are 10 exceptional space anime that utilize the boundless potential of outer space settings to tell imaginative and unrestricted tales.
Note: The opinions expressed in this article are solely those of the author.
10 Must-Watch Space Anime Series
Cowboy Bebop
Cowboy Bebop, a widely praised space anime, has frequently been hailed as an ideal introduction to the world of anime. Taking place in a distant future where humanity has expanded its reach to encompass the solar system, the series chronicles the adventures of a mismatched group of bounty hunters traveling on their spaceship, the Bebop.
Each installment showcases the protagonists tackling perilous tasks in pursuit of capturing fugitives for monetary compensation. In addition to its compelling space western action and strikingly nostalgic futuristic visuals, Cowboy Bebop impresses with its smooth jazz soundtrack.
The characters in the story also grapple with their tragic pasts, delving into philosophical themes. Widely recognized as one of the greatest anime of all time, Cowboy Bebop delivers an exceptional experience for fans of the space opera genre.
2) Planets
Planetes is a standout among space anime, providing a sobering and emotionally charged portrayal of humanity’s future in space. Taking place in a world where travel to lunar bases and orbiting space stations is commonplace, the series follows the lives of ‘halfers’ – hardworking individuals tasked with collecting dangerous debris floating in space that poses a threat to spacecraft.
Toy Box, a debris collection ship, provides viewers with a close-up look at the daily routine of life in space through the perspective of its crew. The contrast between the vastness of space and the mundane tasks performed in close quarters is evident.
The vastness of the galaxy gives way to the everyday struggles and personal relationships of individuals working mundane jobs in order to make ends meet. As a result, Planetes brings a dose of authenticity, significance, and emotional impact to the realm of space-based anime.
3) Space Battleship Yamato
The renowned Japanese space opera franchise has given rise to multiple anime adaptations, sequels, and live-action remakes. The original 1970s anime Space Battleship Yamato ignited the space anime craze and continued to influence the genre for many years with its grand sci-fi story.
Despite a bleak future where the Earth is succumbing to radioactivity, a courageous team embarks on a mission to space in search of a remote planet that could offer hope for humanity’s survival. Confronted by a merciless extraterrestrial foe, their race against time on the Yamato, a converted battleship now functioning as a spacecraft, becomes crucial for reaching the planet.
Space Battleship Yamato established the blueprint for numerous space anime that came after, featuring epic battles amidst the struggle of entire civilizations, a relatable and determined crew of underdogs, and an emotionally charged narrative of fighting for survival against extinction.
4) Legend of The Galactic Heroes
In a future far removed from the present, the expansive interstellar domain of humanity is split between two rival superpowers in Legend of the Galactic Heroes. This series has been praised for its portrayal of a sweeping historical narrative, evocative of the decline and collapse of the Roman Empire, but on a cosmic scale!
The paragraph portrays the vast conflict between the authoritarian Galactic Empire and the democratic Free Planets Alliance by focusing on the personal struggles of opposing leaders Reinhard and Yang. As battles, sieges, and schemes play out across different solar systems, massive fleets of thousands engage in fierce combat amidst nebulae and planets.
Despite its grandiose space opera setting, this anime has received widespread praise for its sophisticated narrative, intricate moral dilemmas, and philosophical concepts that add a profound depth to the conflicts between different societies.
5) Gurren Lagann
Directed by the renowned Hiroyuki Imaishi, this intense mecha anime showcases a fiery storyline as it centers around a teenage Simon who resides in the underground of a dystopian Earth. In this world, humanity trembles in fear as the enigmatic Spiral King continuously triggers earthquakes on the surface.
Upon finding a mecha equipped with a powerful drill capable of piercing the heavens, Simon and rebel leader Kamina are inspired to start a revolution that quickly evolves into a massive intergalactic war.
As the scale escalates from underground battles to commandeering planet-sized mecha from enemies for galactic liberation, viewers will either be caught up in its growing excitement or be left unimpressed.
Knights of Sidonia
“Knights of Sidonia portrays a chilling depiction of what may lie ahead for humanity, as the remaining survivors escape on a colossal spacecraft and traverse the galaxy in the aftermath of Earth’s destruction by shape-shifting extraterrestrials.”
People have spent centuries living nomadic lives in space, leading to the erosion of technology and culture. As a result, they have been genetically modified to be able to photosynthesize food and to connect with biomachines for combat against adversaries. This combination offers a raw blend of traditional mecha warfare and realistic science fiction that delves into the far-reaching consequences of genetic engineering.
Knights of Sidonia offers an enthralling and eerie narrative set in space, perfect for fans of the genre looking for a gripping tale of survival and horror. Its tense plot and captivating, yet unsettling atmosphere make for an engaging viewing experience.
7) Space Dandy
As Dandy Guy embarks on his misadventures, he sets out to search for unknown alien creatures in various galaxies in order to earn a hefty sum. This leads to chaotic and comical situations on his dilapidated spacecraft, the Aloha Oe.
As space zombies, sentient ramen, zombie fests, and alien registries run by penguins continue to appear, viewers can only hold on in anticipation, eagerly awaiting the next wave of silliness on Dandy’s quest for new aliens.
Space Dandy is the perfect choice for those who want to enjoy a lighthearted space anime without taking it too seriously. With its cosmic weirdness and plenty of laugh-out-loud moments, the show delivers an enjoyable and entertaining experience.
Anime: Galaxy Express 999
In 113 episodes, Galaxy Express 999 tells the story of a young boy’s quest to obtain a mechanical body. This space opera is set in a future where the wealthy upper class achieves immortality by transferring their brains into machine bodies, leaving the less fortunate to live as second-class cyborg citizens.
Tetsuro, the main character, embarks on a journey in search of the planet where he can undergo full machine conversion. He secures tickets for the Galaxy Express 999 space train, which travels through the vastness of space. Throughout his voyage, he encounters individuals from various backgrounds who share their motivations for desiring machine bodies. As he witnesses the beauty of the cosmos, he also comes face to face with its harsh truths.
The Galaxy Express 999 franchise, known for its portrayal of the cyborg dilemma and the contrast between space’s optimism and its vast perils, continues to be highly revered in Japan with its multiple films and sequels.
The Irresponsible Captain Tylor
During the 1990s, The Irresponsible Captain Tylor, a comedic space anime, chronicles the absurd escapades of Captain Justy Ueki Tylor as he travels through the galaxy.
Despite initially lacking motivation and being an average young man, Tylor is unexpectedly given control of the salvaged destroyer Soyokaze when the United Planets Space Force is in dire need of officers to fight against the aliens.
The upcoming piece is a comical satire of common space adventure clichés, featuring Captain Tylor who stumbles his way to triumph without any discernible skills but sheer chance. Despite his lackadaisical approach to responsibilities, he miraculously manages to come out on top in every situation, whether it be negotiating hostage scenarios or facing off against skilled enemy pilots.
10) Gundam Franchise
The Gundam franchise, which introduced the Real Robot subgenre of mecha anime, is a crucial part of any conversation about space anime. With the debut of Mobile Suit Gundam in 1979, it sparked a cultural revolution that has spawned numerous sequels, spinoffs, and model kits that are still popular today.
The initial Gundam presents a multifaceted narrative of war from the perspective of Amuro Ray, a virtuous pilot who engages in combat against the Zeon forces in their massive mobile suits known as Gundams. It explores the consequences and ethical challenges of warfare throughout the Earth Sphere with a realistic and down-to-earth approach.
Over time, multiple Gundam series have portrayed the expansion of humanity into space and the resulting conflicts between space colonies and oppressive Earth governments. With a focus on gritty military science fiction rather than fantastical robots, Gundam transports viewers into intricate fictional worlds that grapple with the intricate political landscape of humans in space.
Concluding Thoughts
Space anime’s endless potential enables creators to share stories of any imaginable size, ranging from intimate narratives of a handful of characters to epic battles between intergalactic societies.
There are numerous outstanding space anime series that cater to a wide range of preferences, whether you crave thrilling space battles, thought-provoking science fiction elements, or delightful comedic moments.
As the desire to reach the stars becomes a reality, space anime allows fans to indulge in their fascination with space through imaginative fiction that breaks free from current limitations, all while staying grounded on Earth.
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