Then science-fiction anime might just be the genre for you!
And you're not alone! This genre has always been a fun one, pushing the envelope of reality and giving us a taste of what might be yet to come. Like other anime genres, sci-fi anime can often contain a variety of themes and underlying sub-genres that define a specific series but even with so many variations, there are some commonalities that set this genre apart from all the others.
So just what makes an anime series sci-fi worthy? Let's start by taking a look at common elements of the science fiction genre.
Underlying Themes
Truth be told, just about any theme can work in a science fiction setting. Some of the most popular anime themes include brain-computer interfacing, cloning, cyberpunk, galactic empires, robots and post-apocalyptic story lines.
There are several anime shows that have some religious references, such as Fullmetal Alchemist, Evangelion and Trinity Blood but these are generally just secondary elements to support the plot rather than a full-blown sub-genre or theme.
Characteristics of Science Fiction Anime
While the underlying themes can vary widely, there are a few characteristics that just about every sci-fi anime title will include:
- Science: Sci-fi anime shows typically related to the field of science in some form or fashion. It may be a scientist gone mad or a greedy government using biotechnology to fund their own demented agenda. In any case, look closely and you'll see some sort of science behind the anime.
- Technology: If sci-fi anime is anything, it's technology centered. It may be the central focus as in Ghost in the Shell, or it may be something much more subtle but either way, technology plays a big part in most sci-fi anime shows.
- Futuristic: Most sci-fi anime titles take place in the future, whether it's in the face of an apocolypse or life in outer space or an alternate universe, science fiction anime is typically futuristic by nature.
- Fantasy: While not a requirement, fantasy elements are often what make the science fiction plot work. By adding magic and supernatural characteristics to the mix, this genre stretches the limits of the plausible, making it much easier to explain certain story elements.
Where To Start
Diving into the science fiction anime genre can be a fun adventure to say the least.
There's a whole host of classic sci-fi anime titles to kick things off... for starters, try Mamoru Oshii's Ghost in the Shell or the delectable Cowboy Bebop. Other all-time favorites include Ronin Warriors, Dominion Tank Police and of course, The Big O.
But don't stop there! There's plenty of newer sci-fi anime out there too - try Code Geass, Gurren Lagann, Vexille and Ergo Proxy for a nice mix of anime science fiction.