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In recent years, the world of anime has offered some of its best anime set in a dystopian world. These series have captured the attention of viewers worldwide with their interesting plots and overall animation. Furthermore, these shows not only provide entertainment, but also ensure that the viewer feels disturbed and provoked. This is because these anime force us to question the very foundations of society.
A dystopian world is basically where everything has gone wrong, the total opposite of a perfect paradise. What's really fascinating about these kinds of anime is how they mix sci-fi ideas with intense psychological thrills.
Over the last twenty years, anime about dystopian worlds has exploded in popularity. Maybe it's because the struggles and themes in these shows feel a bit too real in our current times. So, if viewers are ready for some powerful, dark, and super emotional stories, here are 10 must-watch dystopian anime that absolutely need to be checked out.
List of the 10 best anime set in a dystopian world
1) The Promised Neverland
This anime is undeniably one of the best anime set in a dystopian world. It became popularly known for its unique blend of childhood innocence and survival horror. During the first few episodes, The Promised Neverland feels like a story about a normal orphanage with happy children who are prepared to be adopted by loving families. But this facade shattered quickly as three children figure out that something sinister is going on behind their backs. This series is a masterclass in dystopian storytelling thanks to its psychological edge.
2) Psycho-Pass
Psycho-Pass is one such anime that needs to be on every viewer's watchlist, especially those who are looking for the best anime set in a dystopian world. This series is set in a future where there is a new system that determines one's fate. It is known as the Sybil system, and it has the power to determine civilians' potential for criminal behavior before they commit any crimes.
The protagonist of this anime quickly picks up on the fact that not everything can be black or white and wants to think past the rigid system they have to follow. Finally, this anime asks if peace can truly be achieved if the concept of free will is taken away.
3) Guilty Crown
This anime is often seen as an underrated series and deserves a spot among the best anime set in a dystopian world. All because Guilty Crown has perfected a story that is a combination of high-stakes rebellion and emotional complexity.
The premise of this anime is set in a distant future of Japan, where the nation is under the control of an international organization called GHQ after a mysterious virus outbreak. Finally, this anime is a chaotic, beautifully animated series filled with action, romance, and political intrigue.
4) Devilman Crybaby
Watching this series can only be described as a haunting and hallucinogenic experience. Devilman Crybaby is one of the best anime set in a dystopian world that tackles the very soul of humanity. In this world, the Devils are out in the open and are openly possessing humans.
This leads society to fall into fear and violence. There is one young man, Akira Fudo, who merges with a demon to protect mankind. This series is brutal and deeply philosophical, and it is absolutely not for those who are not for the faint of heart.
5) Cyberpunk: Edgerunners
This anime is a visually stunning masterpiece and is equally emotionally devastating. The story is about David Martinez, a street kid who climbs ranks through sheer grit and his street smarts. But as he keeps on rising the ranks, he keeps on losing grip on reality.
This anime explores a future where cybernetic enhancements are the norm and human life is disturbingly disposable. It’s short, sharp, and unforgettable, and a must-watch for fans of the best anime set in a dystopian world.
6) Future Diary (Mirai Nikki)
Future Diary is a textbook definition of what a dystopian world is supposed to look like. And for that sole reason, this series makes it into one of the best anime set in a dystopian world. The anime has turned a survival game into a terrifying social experiment.
It starts off by introducing Yukiteru Amano, a lonely teenager who is forced to play a deadly game with 12 other contestants. As the game progresses, society collapses around them, and the fight for godhood becomes a bloodbath. The show’s dystopia isn’t just in the external chaos, but also in how it breaks its characters mentally.
7) Zom 100: Bucket List of the Dead
This anime is different from other anime series listed in this article as it brings a refreshing twist to the best anime set in a dystopian world genre. The main character is Akira Tendou, who was a normal corporate office-going fellow, and he is burned out from that type of lifestyle. But one day, he is freed from that life when a zombie apocalypse frees him.
Rather than panic, Akira feels relief. Finally, he’s free to live, and he decided to use this opportunity to complete his bucket list. While it leans more into satire than doom, it still captures the chaos of a collapsing world. If viewers want a fresh take on dystopia and enjoy vibrant animation, this is one of the most unique and optimistic takes.
8) Ghost in the Shell
Ghost in the Shell can be classified to be the pioneer of cyberpunk anime. It is a seminal entry among the best anime set in a dystopian world. This movie is also set in a future, but in this universe, AI and cybernetic enhancements are so prominent that the line between human and machine is now a blur.
To understand the true meaning of a dystopian world, this anime movie is essential viewing. Finally, if we have to describe the theme that the Ghost in the Shell covers, it is identity, memory, and the nature of consciousness.
9) Akira
No list of the best anime set in a dystopian world is complete without Akira. This 1988 masterpiece was revolutionary, setting the bar for animation and dystopian storytelling. In post-apocalyptic Neo-Tokyo, biker gangs, corrupt politicians, and psychic children collide in an explosive rebellion.
The world-building is dense, the animation jaw-dropping, and the themes still hauntingly relevant. This show is not just anime, it is a cultural landmark. Especially for fans who have been watching anime for a while, this movie is always recommended as a must-watch.
10) Paprika
While more psychological than traditional dystopian, Paprika earns its place as one of the best anime set in a dystopian world by presenting a reality where dreams can be invaded and manipulated. In a world where therapists use dream tech to enter patients’ subconscious, a stolen device causes chaos between dream and waking life.
Even the Hollywood movie, Inception, took inspiration from this film, and this reason should be enough to convince viewers to give this movie a try, especially for those who enjoy films that mess with the minds of the viewers.
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In conclusion, these series are more than just simple shows that could be watched for fun. While they are undoubtedly worth watching, these stories serve as a warning and sometimes even predictions of the directions our world could go. These ten entries don’t just immerse viewers in dark futures, they make viewers think deeply about the present.
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