Science fiction and fantasy have long been a staple of anime, from classics like Astro Boy and Akira to the isekai boom with shows like Sword Art Online and Overlord.
The 2010s were no stranger to some incredible sci-fi and fantasy series. It didn’t matter if you were into mecha, medieval fantasy or Blade Runner-esque cyberpunk, there was certainly something for you to watch.
Presenting the fan-voted sci-fi/fantasy series of the decade:
Steins;Gate (2011)
For about 12 episodes, Steins;Gate is a comedy. It’s a funny look at how, in this version of 2010 Tokyo, time travel was accidentally discovered. However, after a major character death, the series takes a turn and suddenly becomes an intense, high-stakes thriller.
When it comes to a sci-fi series that’s the complete package, you don’t need to look much further than this classic. Steins;Gate is one of those rare shows that can make you laugh and cry, all while keeping you on the edge of your seat during its 24 episodes.
Watch Steins;Gate on Funimation!
Runners-up
Attack on Titan (2013)
From the moment you hear the first OP song for Attack on Titan Season 1, you know the series is going to be something special. Attack on Titan tells the story of Eren Jaeger, who throughout the series learns that the apocalyptic threat of Titans, grotesque and towering monsters plaguing his homeland might not be what they seem.
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The series is a gripping, brutal tale of adventure, mystery and discovery as it brings viewers into its characters relationships and experiences. From the commanding Erwin Smith to the smug like-ability of Levi Ackermann, there’s something for everyone to stand for in Attack on Titan.
Watch Attack on Titan on Funimation!
Dr. STONE (2019)
Dr. STONE, through its unique setting and everlasting optimism, truly succeeds as a sci-fi/fantasy anime. It’d make sense that it would quickly rise through the ranks to join the best anime of the decade.
The series follows teen scientist Senku who wakes up alone from a 3,000+ year slumber after everyone in the world mysteriously turned to stone. After reviving his closest friend Taiju, Senku sets out to return humanity to its former glory through science. But some aren’t interested in the way things used to be …
Watch Dr. STONE on Funimation!
PSYCHO-PASS (2012)
Ever since the first season was released at the beginning of the decade, there’s no way to think about sci-fi anime without PSYCHO-PASS popping into your head. From a supposedly all-knowing computer system that monitors and judges citizens’ mental states to a weapon that’s the perfect representation of the genre itself, this Gen Urobuchi original series checks all the right boxes.
The stories that unfold in this futuristic Japan make viewers consider difficult topics like morality and the price of peace and happiness. The Inspectors and Enforcers of the Public Safety Bureau’s Criminal Investigation Division are tasked with solving crimes, all while trusting that the Sibyl System provides fair and accurate mental readings for the people they encounter.
Watch PSYCHO-PASS on Funimation!
Sword Art Online (2012)
Arguably one of the most impactful series to be released this decade, Sword Art Online was a force of nature. It’s often credited as the igniting spark for the current isekai trend.
Kirito’s initial nightmarish adventure trying to escape the virtual prison that was Sword Art Online attracted millions of viewers, drawing them in with the premise that was both an action fantasy and a terrifying near-future sci-fi. Since then, Kirito’s adventures into various other virtual worlds has only cemented the franchise as one of the genre’s staples this decade.
Watch Sword Art Online on Funimation!
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