Top cyberpunk TV series to stream right now
Dive into a world where advanced technology meets societal decay. From gritty hacker collectives to dystopian futures, these series redefine the boundaries of human existence and digital reality.



The cyberpunk genre, born from literary giants like William Gibson's "Neuromancer" and Philip K. Dick's "Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep?", has found a powerful home in television. It's a genre that thrives on exploring the dark side of technological progress, often presenting worlds where corporations hold immense power, artificial intelligence blurs the lines of humanity, and the human body itself becomes a canvas for enhancement.
One of the fascinating aspects of cyberpunk on screen is its visual language. Think of the neon-drenched streets of "Blade Runner: Black Lotus" or the intricate digital landscapes in "Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex." These aesthetics are not just for show; they often reflect the internal struggles of the characters and the oppressive environments they inhabit. For instance, the stark, unsettling atmosphere of "Texhnolyze" perfectly complements its themes of nihilism and the decline of civilization.
The genre also frequently delves into philosophical questions. "Serial Experiments Lain," for example, is a masterclass in exploring identity, reality, and consciousness in a hyper-connected world. Similarly, "Black Mirror" consistently challenges our perceptions of technology's impact on society, often with chillingly prescient scenarios. Even a series like "Mr. Robot," while grounded in a more contemporary setting, captures the hacker ethos and anti-establishment sentiment central to cyberpunk.
What makes these series so compelling is their ability to blend thrilling action with profound social commentary. They don't just entertain; they make us think about where humanity is headed. Whether it's the high-octane battles in "Cyberpunk: Edgerunners" or the psychological depth of "Psycho-Pass," these shows offer a rich tapestry of stories that are both cautionary tales and speculative visions of our future.
11. Texhnolyze (2003)
Texhnolyze is a profoundly bleak and philosophical journey into a desolate, post-apocalyptic future. This anime is renowned for its minimalist dialogue, slow pacing, and incredibly dark atmosphere, creating a truly unique and unsettling experience. It explores themes of existentialism, human nature, and societal decay in a world where humanity seems to be losing its grip. While not for everyone due to its challenging nature, it's a powerful and thought-provoking work that delves deep into the darker corners of the human condition within a cyberpunk setting.

10. Bubblegum Crisis (1987)
Bubblegum Crisis is a quintessential 80s cyberpunk OVA that throws you into a future where advanced robotic 'Boomers' are both essential and dangerous. It follows the Knight Sabers, an all-female mercenary team in power suits, fighting against rogue Boomers and the corrupt Genom corporation. This series is famous for its cool character designs, high-octane mecha action, and a synth-heavy soundtrack that perfectly encapsulates the era. It's a foundational title for many cyberpunk enthusiasts, showcasing the genre's early visual and thematic elements with plenty of explosions and stylish flair.

9. Cyber City Oedo 808 (1990)
Cyber City Oedo 808 is a classic example of gritty 90s cyberpunk anime, delivering explosive action and a no-nonsense attitude. Set in a futuristic Tokyo, it follows three hardened criminals who are forced to work as cybernetic police officers to reduce their sentences. Each episode is a self-contained mission, packed with over-the-top violence, stylish character designs, and a killer rock soundtrack. It's a raw and visceral ride that perfectly captures the aesthetic and rebellious spirit of early cyberpunk, making it a nostalgic treat for fans of the genre.

8. Serial Experiments Lain (1998)
Serial Experiments Lain is not for the faint of heart; it's a deeply complex and often unsettling exploration of reality, identity, and the digital world. This avant-garde anime follows Lain Iwakura, a shy teenager who delves into the Wired, an advanced global communication network, blurring the lines between the physical and virtual. The series is known for its philosophical depth and abstract narrative, challenging viewers to piece together its intricate mysteries. It's a cult classic that predates many of our current discussions about online identity and digital consciousness, making it incredibly relevant even today.

7. Blade Runner: Black Lotus (2021)
Blade Runner: Black Lotus expands the iconic universe of Blade Runner, bringing a new protagonist, Elle, into the neon-drenched, rain-soaked streets of 2032 Los Angeles. This CGI-animated series maintains the noir aesthetic and philosophical depth that defines the franchise, exploring themes of identity, memory, and what it means to be human in a world shared by humans and replicants. The visual style is distinct, offering a fresh perspective while staying true to the established atmosphere. It's a solid addition for fans eager to delve deeper into the rich lore of the Blade Runner saga.

6. Psycho-Pass (2012)
Psycho-Pass presents a dystopian future where a powerful system, the Sibyl System, can instantly assess a person's crime coefficient, determining their likelihood of committing a crime. This leads to a fascinating exploration of justice, free will, and the ethical dilemmas of predictive policing. The series follows Akane Tsunemori as she navigates this morally ambiguous world, questioning the very system she upholds. It's a dark and intense psychological thriller with compelling characters and intricate world-building, offering a chilling glimpse into a society where thoughts can be crimes.

5. Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex (2002)
Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex is a cornerstone of the cyberpunk genre, diving deep into the philosophical implications of a hyper-connected future. Following Major Motoko Kusanagi and Section 9, this series explores cybercrime, political intrigue, and the very definition of humanity in a world where cybernetic enhancements are commonplace. The animation is top-tier, and the intricate plots are incredibly engaging, often dealing with complex themes like artificial intelligence and the nature of identity. Its influence on subsequent sci-fi media is undeniable, making it essential viewing for any fan of intelligent and action-packed anime.

4. Black Mirror (2011)
Black Mirror is a chilling anthology series that holds a dark mirror up to our relationship with technology. Each standalone episode explores a different facet of how technological advancements could go horribly wrong, often leaving viewers with a profound sense of unease. From social credit systems to digital afterlives, the show masterfully crafts scenarios that feel disturbingly plausible. Its genius lies in its ability to take contemporary anxieties and extrapolate them into unsettling near-futures. It's a must-watch for anyone who enjoys thought-provoking sci-fi that challenges societal norms and makes you reconsider your daily tech habits.

3. Altered Carbon (2018)
Step into a future where death is just a minor inconvenience in Altered Carbon. Based on Richard K. Morgan's acclaimed novel, this series explores a world where consciousness can be transferred between bodies, called 'sleeves.' Joel Kinnaman leads an impressive cast, bringing to life a neo-noir detective story wrapped in stunning cyberpunk aesthetics. The production design is absolutely breathtaking, creating a truly immersive world with flying cars, towering skyscrapers, and intricate neon-lit streets. It's a thought-provoking exploration of identity, immortality, and the dark side of technological advancement, complete with thrilling action and complex mysteries.

2. Mr. Robot (2015)
Mr. Robot isn't just a show; it's a deep dive into the psyche of a brilliant but troubled hacker, Elliot Alderson. Rami Malek's performance is absolutely captivating, earning him an Emmy for his portrayal of a character battling social anxiety, depression, and a crumbling sense of reality. The series is a thrilling, mind-bending exploration of cybersecurity, corporate greed, and mental health, often blurring the lines between what's real and what's perceived. Its innovative cinematography and a soundtrack that perfectly sets the mood make it a standout. It's a show that will keep you guessing and questioning everything until the very end!

1. Cyberpunk: Edgerunners (2022)
Get ready for an adrenaline-fueled ride with Cyberpunk: Edgerunners! This anime blew everyone away with its stunning animation and brutal, heartbreaking story set in the same universe as the popular video game, Cyberpunk 2077. Studio Trigger truly outdid themselves, bringing Night City to life with incredible detail and dynamic action sequences. The character development is top-notch, making you genuinely care about David Martinez and his crew as they navigate a world where technology and desperation collide. It's a masterclass in adapting a game's lore into a compelling narrative, proving that anime can push boundaries and deliver something truly special.
