Netflix and Noble Phantasms
With the likes of the sub-par Sword Gai: The Animation already booking itself a second season, it’s become pretty clear that Netflix has now become a hub where any anime worth its salt can find a home. There are of course plenty of generic and cringe-inducing messes that should be avoided like the plague (Neo Yokio) but for the most part there are a whole slew of incredible examples of Japanimation just waiting for newcomers to discover, with these five easily standing out.
#5: “Fate/Apocrypha†(2017)
The Fate series is…complex to say the least. So instead of taking you through a dedicated powerpoint presentation, Netflix decided to treat fans and newcomers alike to this latest iteration. One that stands on its own as a contained story that requires no prior viewing, and instead dedicates its run time to busting out an endless slew of astoundingly animated battles. With two warring sides, plenty of characters to attach yourselves to (coughRiderofBlackcough) Apocrypha is definitely one fantasy epic to check out.
#4: “Kakegurui†(2017)
Sensual, sociopathic and splendid; that’s Yumeko Jabami for you.In a school where gambling determines social status, winning offers you a life of luxury while losing literally turns you into a slave. Then Yumeko turns up and everything is thrown on its head. With a love and addiction to gambling that is borderline orgasmic, she proceeds to challenge the highest ranking members of the school, just for the thrill of it. Be warned, if you bet against her, be prepared to experience Yumeko’s madness up close.
#3: “Knights of Sidonia†(2014-)
Granted, the animation can be hit and miss at times, especially when you’re spending time with our admittedly mediocre cast. But where this series really excels is with the Guana, the alien creatures that literally broke the Earth in half and sent humanity fleeing into the darkness of space. With a growing sense of isolation and desperation, this gritty take on the mecha vs alien trope serves as a much needed refresher as to why you should fear what comes from the stars. Also they’re gross as all hell.
#2: “Little Witch Academia†(2017-)
Stop what you’re doing and binge-watch this show right now! While many newcomers will cry out “Harry Potter†at first glance, the witches of Luna Nova Academy are very much their own entity. As wannabe sorceress Akko and her dysfunctional friends try to navigate their way through their magical semester, an endless amount of charm, legit laughter and heartfelt encounters await them (and us) along the way. To say this series casts a spell on all who watch it would be a huge understatement. Plus, its worth watching for Diana’s swagger alone.
#1: “The Seven Deadly Sins†(2014-)
Layered with a cast of quirky yet badass protagonists, this show is fantasy action at its best! In order to save the kingdom that once shunned them from a deep-rooted corruption, seven knights all based on the deadly sins, take up arms and kick a serious amount of ass along the way. The banter is on point, the fight scenes have never heard of the word subtlety, and every word from Ban’s mouth is sheer gold. Wrath, Greed, Sloth, Pride, Lust, Envy and Gluttony have never looked so good!
Be sure to check out the video below for our picks for the Top 10 Biggest Netflix Flops.Â
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