If you’re a big fan of the Cyberpunk franchise, do you know that there are some retro cyberpunk anime classics, back in the ’80s and ’90s that were all so dark and violent cyberpunk OVAs.
Over the years, the cyberpunk genre has gotten huge popularity because of the franchise with the same name and its anime and video game adaptation. Cyberpunk has been present in anime and manga since the 1980s all through to the 1990s. Some of them were hits and became classics while others just didn’t get any recognition.
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CyberPunk Anime
Cyberpunk is a subgenre of science fiction that explores a future where technology has advanced to the point where it has merged with the human body and mind.
However, this leads to a dark and dystopian society where crime and violence are rampant. Cyberpunk anime is a popular subgenre of the medium, and there are many great retro cyberpunk anime classics that are underrated but amazing.
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Best Retro Cyberpunk Anime Classics That Are Underrated But Amazing
Bubblegum Crisis (1987)
Bubblegum Crisis is one of the best retro cyberpunk anime classics that follows the adventures of a group of cyborg women who fight crime in a dystopian future.
It’s a 13-episode anime series known for its stylish animation, action-packed sequences, and memorable characters.
AD Police Files (1990)
AD Police Files is a 13-episode anime series that is set in the same universe as Bubblegum Crisis. It’s about a police unit that is tasked with fighting crime in a futuristic metropolis.
With its dark and gritty atmosphere, the anime is a realistic depiction of a cyberpunk future.
Armitage III (1995)
Armitage III is a 3-episode OVA series that tells the story of a cyborg woman who is hunted by the police for a crime she did not commit.
The series has a complex plot, well-developed characters, and stunning visuals. It’s no doubt one of the retro cyberpunk anime classics.
Battle Angel Alita (1993)
Battle Angel Alita isl another OVA series that is based on the manga of the same name. It’s 3-episode is about a young cyborg woman who is trying to find her place in the world.
Ghost in the Shell (1995) a
Ghost in the Shell is a feature-length anime film that is considered to be one of the best retro cyberpunk anime of all time.
It’s a story about a cyborg police officer who is tasked with investigating a terrorist attack. The film has stunning visuals, complex plot, and thought-provoking themes.
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The Cyber City Oedo 808 Cyberpunk Anime
Cyber City Oedo 808 is a 1990-1991 cyberpunk original video animation (OVA) series directed by Yoshiaki Kawajiri. It is set in the year 2808 in the city of Oedo (Tokyo), which has been transformed into a dark and dangerous metropolis.
The story follows three criminals who are enlisted into fighting crime in exchange for reduced sentences. They are Sengoku, an antisocial maverick, Gogul, a mohawk-wearing hacker, and Benten, an androgynous bishōnen.
Cyber City Oedo 808 is a classic cyberpunk anime that is still enjoyed by fans today. It is a must-see for any fan of the genre.
The animation is stylish and the story is dark and gritty, but also thought-provoking, the action sequences are violent and exciting.
If you are a fan of cyberpunk anime, then you should definitely check out Cyber City Oedo 808. It is a classic anime that is still enjoyed by fans today.
Conclusion
These are just a few of the many great retro cyberpunk anime that are out there. Retro cyberpunk anime is a great way to experience the cyberpunk genre. These anime are often stylish, action-packed, and thought-provoking.