The infinite possibilities of “what might the future look like” have always lured humankind into a well of bottomless thinking. Taking to various media, many have expressed their thoughts and shared their visions with one another, envisioning what the future may hold in the years to come.
Anime is just one such popular medium that, thanks to its distinctive storytelling and breathtaking animation, has allowed people to fully immerse themselves in imaginative worlds. As of today, it has become a cultural phenomenon and its influence can be felt across a wide range of genres. Moreover, the best works of anime often explore the realm of science fiction that, along with weaving together captivating storylines, keep us hooked till the very end.
Therefore, in this article, we will take a look at the list of the top 3 anime on futuristic technology and scientific advancements! Now, without any further delay, let us begin!
Psycho-Pass
Topping our charts, Psycho-Pass is a dark-themed anime with a gripping and thought-provoking plot that capitalizes on topics like free will, justice, human nature, and the role of technology in shaping human lives.
Psycho-Pass is set in a dystopian Japan where the entire country has submitted its free will to an AI network known as Sibyl System. It constantly monitors the mental state of every citizen and determines their criminal potential, known as Psycho-Pass. The story follows Akane Tsunemori, a newly recruited detective tasked with maintaining law and order in a world where the line between justice and oppression is blurred. As the story progresses, alongside Shinya Kogami, Akane uncovers a web of conspiracies and corruption that leads her to question her own beliefs and values in a world where scientific advancements have replaced human intuition.
Produced by Production I.G., Psycho-Pass consists of 22 episodes and was first aired in 2012. The show received critical acclaim and spawned several sequels, as well as movies, that further its iconic plot on morality and the power of AI. It has a high rating of 8.2/10 on IMDb.
Serial Experiments Lain
Bagging second place, Serial Experiments Lain anime show is well-renowned for its state-of-the-art atmospheric visuals that delve ever deeper into the dark and horror side of the global communication network known as Wired.
Serial Experiments Lain creatively builds upon the unknown side of the internet, back when its novelty was still anew in the 90s. The story follows Lain, a 14-year-old socially awkward high school student who receives a mysterious email via Wired from a classmate, Chisa, who recently committed suicide. The email claims that Chisa, having abandoned only her physical presence, is still alive in the Wired and has found God there. Curious and intrigued, Lain begins to explore the Wired with her old computer and discovers a hidden reality that blurs the line between the physical and the virtual worlds.
Produced by Triangle Staff and Yasuyuki Ueda, Serial Experiments Lain consists of 13 episodes and was first aired in 1998. It is a must-watch anime for fans of science fiction, cyberpunk, and mystery. It has a high rating of 8.0/10 on IMDb.
Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex
Coming third, Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex is a captivating and unique anime that explores themes such as identity, consciousness, social justice, and the nature of reality blurred by technological advancements.
Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex is set in the year 2030. In this post-cyberpunk world, where cybernetics and artificial intelligence have become widespread, the story follows the members of Public Security Section 9, an elite counter-terrorism unit that specializes in cybercrime and espionage. The team is led by Major Motoko Kusanagi, a cyborg who can hack into any network with her cyberbrain. As Public Security Section 9 continues to uncover conspiracies and investigate crimes, they come face to face against tech giants and the corrupt politicians who have put the country at stake for their greedy profits.
Produced by Production I.G., Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex consists of 26 episodes and was first aired in 2002. Its sequel, S.A.C. 2nd GIG, further advances its intricate storyline and successfully builds upon its dark immersive world. It has a high rating of 8.5/10 on IMDb.
Final Thoughts
So, this is our list of the top 3 anime on futuristic technology and scientific advancements. What do you think of it? Share your thoughts with us and let us know in the comments below!
But before you go, since we have touched on AI more than once here, do check out our recent article on the “Role of NPC & Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Video Games”.
