15 Must See Anime Series for Star Wars Enthusiasts

Anime competes in the Space Opera genre, matching the excitement and depth of Star Wars. It’s cherished for its vibrant characters and imaginative settings, showcasing unique worlds and clashes between good and evil.

Japanese anime offers fresh narratives featuring epic battles between empires and the solitary quests of adventurers.

These stories stand alongside classics like Star Wars, providing diversity in science fiction with awe-inspiring spectacles.

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Through dynamic storytelling and animation, anime transports viewers to fantastical realms.

It explores themes of heroism, sacrifice, and redemption, blending action, drama, and humor for an immersive experience.

Anime’s willingness to tackle complex narratives and mature themes sets it apart, drawing a global audience with its creativity and imagination.

At its core, anime thrives on creativity, whether in intricate world-building or intimate character development. It continually pushes the boundaries of storytelling, leaving a lasting impact on popular culture.

Anime’s ability to attract with emotional depth solidifies its place as a beloved form of entertainment worldwide.

Anime competes with Star Wars in the Space Opera genre, offering vibrant characters and imaginative worlds.

It provides fresh narratives and diversity in science fiction audiences with its dynamic storytelling. Anime’s creativity and willingness to explore complex themes make it a beloved form of entertainment globally.

1) Legend of the Galactic Heroes

The popular 1988 adaptation of Galactic Heroes spans over 100 episodes, making it a significant commitment for viewers.

Hosted on HiDive, the series offers a deeply complex exploration of politics, statecraft, and strategic warfare.

Galactic Heroes follows a familiar setup of empire vs. republic but adds depth to the Galactic Empire by showcasing Reinhard’s gradual ascent to a benevolent dictator while the democratic planets struggle internally.

The series provides an even-handed narration and an omniscient point of view, allowing viewers to explore the lives and times of both major and minor characters.

It offers a departure from the traditional narrative of good versus evil found in Star Wars. For history enthusiasts, Galactic Heroes offers a compelling portrayal of the politics and logistical challenges inherent in running an interstellar empire.

It replaces the simplistic dichotomy of good and evil with a nuanced exploration of the rise and fall of individuals and nations.

15 Must See Anime Series for Star Wars Enthusiasts — Legend of the Galactic Heroes (Credit: K-Factory)

Viewers willing to invest in the series will find themselves immersed in a rich decoration of political intrigue, strategic maneuvering, and complex character dynamics.

Galactic Heroes offers a refreshing departure from typical space opera tropes, focusing instead on the intricacies of governance and power dynamics.

The series’ depth and complexity make it a rewarding watch for those seeking a thought-provoking narrative that delves into themes of leadership, morality, and the consequences of power.

While Galactic Heroes may appear daunting due to its length, its intricate storytelling and well-developed characters make it a journey for those willing to commit to the series.

Galactic Heroes stands as evidence of the potential of anime to explore complex political and social themes within the framework of a space opera.

Its meticulous attention to detail and nuanced portrayal of characters and conflicts offer a thought-provoking and immersive viewing experience for fans of the genre.

2) Cowboy Bebop

Despite their surface differences, Cowboy Bebop and Star Wars share more similarities than just their space Western aesthetics and retrofuturistic charm.

While Star Wars tells an epic, world-shifting saga, Cowboy Bebop focuses on a more intimate story of a group of bounty hunters exploring their pasts in the vastness of space.

However, in its quieter moments, Cowboy Bebop reveals similarities to Star Wars as it delves into exploring new planets and forming lasting connections.

Both series create nuanced worlds and characters, making the unknowns of space feel comfortable and familiar.

Cowboy Bebop’s exploration of culture and its emphasis on character development mirror aspects of Star Wars, fostering a sense of connection and relatability for viewers.

Despite the differences in scale, both series evoke a sense of wonder and adventure in their portrayal of the cosmic frontier.

The bonds forged between characters in Cowboy Bebop, much like those in Star Wars, add depth and emotional resonance to the narrative.

Whether it’s the camaraderie between bounty hunters or the friendships formed amidst galactic turmoil, both series highlight the importance of human connections.

While Cowboy Bebop may lack the grandiose battles and cosmic conflicts of Star Wars, its focus on character-driven storytelling and exploration of the human condition draws parallels to the iconic franchise.

Both series offer audiences a view of the complexities of the universe and the individuals who inhabit it.

Cowboy Bebop’s ability to create immersive worlds and memorable characters aligns with the essence of Star Wars, capturing the imagination of viewers with its blend of action, drama, and humor.

Despite their differences, both series leave a lasting impact on audiences with their timeless themes and storytelling.

While Cowboy Bebop and Star Wars may seem distinct at first glance, they share common themes of adventure, camaraderie, and exploration.

Through their portrayal of the cosmic frontier and the characters who navigate it, both series offer viewers a compelling journey into the unknown reaches of space.

3) Code Geass: Lelouch Of The Rebellion

Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion shares similarities with Star Wars in its ability to provide poignant social and political critique.

While Star Wars often incorporates nuanced political allegories into its plot and worldbuilding, Code Geass blurs the lines between good and evil within its political structure.

Fans of the morally ambiguous political theater seen in Star Wars: The Clone Wars and Andor will appreciate the complexity of Lelouch vi Britannia’s story in Code Geass.

Despite being set in a militant futuristic Earth rather than space, the series still includes familiar sci-fi elements alongside a tense and divisive political plotline reminiscent of Star Wars.

In Code Geass, the political part is not as straightforward as in many Star Wars properties, adding depth to the narrative and characters.

This complexity allows for a rich exploration of themes related to power, morality, and rebellion, drawing parallels to the nuanced storytelling found in Star Wars.

While the setting of Code Geass differs from traditional space operas like Star Wars, it still captures the essence of the genre with its epic conflicts, larger-than-life characters, and grand scale.

The series offers a compelling blend of action, drama, and political intrigue, keeping viewers engaged from start to finish.

Code Geass may take place on Earth, but its futuristic setting and sci-fi elements contribute to its resemblance to Star Wars.

The series’ exploration of political themes and its portrayal of morally ambiguous characters add depth and complexity, appealing to fans of thought-provoking narratives.

Like Star Wars, Code Geass delves into themes of rebellion, tyranny, and the consequences of power, resonating with audiences on a deeper level.

The series challenges viewers to question the nature of authority and the morality of their actions, much like Star Wars does with its exploration of the Force and the battle between the light and dark sides.

Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion offers a fresh take on the space opera genre with its own unique spin on political intrigue and epic storytelling.

While it may not take place in space, its thematic similarities to Star Wars make it a compelling watch for fans seeking engaging narratives and complex characters.

Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion provides an intriguing blend of sci-fi, political drama, and action, drawing comparisons to the beloved Star Wars franchise.

With its morally gray characters and gripping plotlines, the series offers a thought-provoking exploration of power and rebellion that will resonate with fans of both anime and space opera.

4) Tengen Toppa Gurren Lagann

Gurren Lagann begins with humble origins on Earth but escalates into an epic tale where the protagonist, Simon the Digger, fights for the existence of all sentient beings.

Despite its initial focus, the series gradually expands its scope and raises the stakes to absurd levels.

Although Gurren Lagann exudes the energy of a Saturday Morning Cartoon with its giant robots and rock soundtrack, it shares similarities with Star Wars.

Like the rebels in Star Wars, the characters in Gurren Lagann rebel against a dictatorship, with a mystic life force playing an important role in the backdrop of the story.

While primarily a mecha anime, Gurren Lagann boasts an epic scope that transcends genre boundaries. It’s grand scale and passionate storytelling make it a compelling watch, regardless of one’s affinity for science fiction.

Gainax’s anime is celebrated for its unabashed passion, which is evident in its wacky humor and ridiculous battles.

Despite not fitting neatly into the space opera category initially, Gurren Lagann’s narrative momentum propels it into increasingly epic territory.

Gurren Lagann grows in ambition, expanding its narrative to encompass a wide range of genres. Its irreverent approach to storytelling and willingness to embrace the absurd makes it a standout in anime.

Ultimately, Gurren Lagann’s appeal lies in its ability to attract audiences with its bold storytelling and larger-than-life characters.

Its blend of action, humor, and heartfelt moments resonates with viewers, earning it a dedicated fanbase.

While not immediately recognizable as a space opera, Gurren Lagann’s journey transcends its mecha origins to become a sprawling epic that defies categorization.

Its impact on the anime industry and its enduring popularity attest to its status as a modern classic.

Gurren Lagann may start small, but its epic narrative and passionate execution uplift it to the ranks of iconic space operas like Star Wars.

With its memorable characters, thrilling battles, and larger-than-life storytelling, Gurren Lagann continues to leave a lasting impression on audiences worldwide.

5) Space Battleship Yamato

Yamato’s position in anime is intriguing, particularly with its 2199 and 3199 reboots that effectively update the original 1974 series for modern audiences.

Even without these reboots, Yamato remains famous for introducing Japan to the awe-inspiring Wave Motion Gun, making the titular battleship an iconic symbol in sci-fi.

In Yamato’s universe, Earth faces threats from the Gamilas Empire, but what sets it apart is humanity’s alliance with various alien allies who aid in the fight against the invaders.

These allies contributed the technology necessary to launch the Yamato, while the crew demonstrated a higher level of military discipline than other series.

While Gundam and Macross feature hotshot pilots and mavericks akin to rebellious heroes from Star Wars, Yamato offers an alternative with its emphasis on teamwork and cooperation.

Every member of the crew plays an important role in ensuring the survival of their super battleship against the alien onslaught.

The success of the 2199 reboot has breathed new life into the series, making Space Battleship Yamato an appealing choice for audiences interested in modern war stories.

Whether viewers are familiar with the original series or discovering it for the first time, Yamato provides an engaging and immersive experience set in a richly developed universe.

Yamato’s enduring popularity is evidence of its ability to resonate with audiences across generations. Its themes of camaraderie, sacrifice, and heroism strike a chord with viewers, while its innovative storytelling and memorable characters leave a lasting impact.

The rebooted versions of Yamato offer a fresh perspective on the classic tale, updating it for contemporary audiences while staying true to the spirit of the original series.

With its blend of action, drama, and sci-fi spectacle, Yamato continues to attract viewers with its epic space battles and compelling narrative.

For those seeking a modern take on the war story genre, Space Battleship Yamato offers a compelling option.

Its blend of action-packed battles and character-driven drama makes it a must-watch for anime fans looking for immersive storytelling and thrilling adventure.

Yamato’s legacy as a pioneering sci-fi series endures through its reboots and continued relevance in anime.

With its iconic battleship, diverse cast of characters, and engaging storylines, Yamato remains a timeless classic beloved by audiences worldwide.

6) Super Dimension Fortress Macross

Macross serves as Gundam’s lighter counterpart, featuring epic space battles with a more fantastical and emotionally driven approach by Studio Nue.

While Gundam focuses on human conflicts within our solar system, Macross portrays humanity battling a tyrannical alien empire across the galaxy, triumphing through firepower, pop music, and love.

The series stands out for its bombastic style, carving its own niche among space war narratives with its unique blend of fantasy and emotion.

Each installment explores a different genre within the franchise, despite recurring themes of music and love triangles, catering to a diverse audience.

For fans of serious military narratives, there’s Macross Plus, while those craving campy fantasy can enjoy Macross.

Most of the series is available on Disney+, offering fans the convenience of seamlessly switching between Star Wars and Macross with just a remote.

7) Astra Lost in Space

Astra, like the book Hatchet, is a thrilling Young Adult adventure where teens are whisked away into deep space instead of a summer camp.

They must work together to pilot a spaceship home, uncovering the mystery behind their journey. Lerche’s 2019 adaptation offers twelve tightly woven episodes packed with excitement.

The series excels in showing the teens exploring new worlds, each with its own dangers. These adventures enhance the sense of discovery and wonder.

Astra also features a gripping subplot involving a conspiracy across colonized planets. Although it lacks the big battles of Star Wars, Astra hooks viewers with its focus on character drama and suspense.

Without a clear antagonist, it delves into complex relationships and moral dilemmas. Similar to Star Wars, Astra delves into themes like friendship and redemption.

It takes viewers on an emotional journey as the characters face their fears and desires in space. Astra ensures each character gets their moment to shine, fostering a strong sense of camaraderie.

This adds depth and authenticity to their relationships and makes their triumphs more satisfying. The series’ visual storytelling and soundtrack deepen the immersive experience. It keeps viewers engaged with tension-filled plot twists and revelations.

8) Space Dandy

Shinichiro Watanabe, renowned for directing the space noir Cowboy Bebop, returned to anime in 2013 with Space Dandy, its complete opposite.

While both feature a team of bounty hunters, Space Dandy leans heavily into comedy, with its protagonist, Dandy, serving as a parody of classic 1950s space heroes.

His adventures in search of new planets and exotic lifeforms are solely for making quick cash to frequent his favorite restaurant, filled with scantily-clad waitresses.

This original anime by BONES stands out from traditional space operas due to its irreverent tone. Even death is treated lightly, with characters returning in the next episode.

However, this departure from realism is compensated by the sheer exuberance of the series. Each character is memorable, and the animation exhibits remarkable fluidity, enhancing the viewing experience.

Despite its quality, Space Dandy has become somewhat underrated, making it a perfect reminder not to take the final frontier too seriously.

9) Outlaw Star

Outlaw Star, a ’90s sci-fi classic, captures the fantasy of going on a thrilling space adventure akin to Star Wars. The protagonist, Gene

Starwind leads a ragtag team aboard his titular ship as they search the galaxy for a legendary treasure. Along the way, they encounter vibrant otherworldly cultures and eccentric individuals and engage in tense battles, mirroring the boundless excitement of Star Wars.

However, unlike the expansive universe of Star Wars, Outlaw Star was limited to a single 24-episode season.

This constraint prevented the series from fully exploring all the corners of its rich and diverse universe, leaving fans longing for more.

Despite its brevity, Outlaw Star still manages to attract audiences with its adventurous spirit and colorful characters.

The allure of Star Wars lies in its ability to transport viewers to a world of adventure and camaraderie, where the thrill of space travel and the bonds of friendship are central themes.

Similarly, Outlaw Star taps into this fantasy by immersing audiences in Gene’s quest for treasure amidst a backdrop of cosmic wonders and perilous encounters.

Gene’s journey through the galaxy on his ship resonates with fans who yearn for the excitement and freedom of exploration depicted in Star Wars.

Each episode of Outlaw Star offers a view of a new and exotic corner of the universe, filled with unique challenges and opportunities for adventure.

While Outlaw Star may not have the same expansive lore and mythology as Star Wars, its concise storytelling, and episodic format allow for focused and action-packed narratives.

The series maintains a sense of momentum and urgency as Gene and his crew navigate through the dangers and mysteries of space.

Despite its limited run, Outlaw Star remains a beloved classic for its imaginative world-building, memorable characters, and thrilling action sequences.

It captures the essence of the space opera genre, delivering a blend of excitement, humor, and drama that resonates with fans of all ages.

Outlaw Star channels the spirit of adventure found in Star Wars, offering a journey through a vast and diverse universe.

While its single season may leave viewers wanting more, the series leaves a lasting impression with its adventurous storytelling and charismatic cast of characters.

10) Mobile Suit Gundam

The original 1979 anime Gundam sparked numerous sequels, spin-offs, and reboots set in the Universal Century timeline, akin to Star Wars.

Fans praise Gundam for its anti-war message and the story of determined underdogs facing immense challenges.

One highlight is the battleship White Base, which employs guerrilla tactics against the Principality of Zeon, echoing the struggle against the Empire in Star Wars.

Char Aznable, often compared to Darth Vader, holds significant cultural importance in Japan. Successive Gundam sequels emphasize the role of new types, individuals with psychic abilities similar to those of Jedi and Sith in Star Wars.

This further connects the two franchises. Gundam’s original series has been condensed into a popular movie trilogy available on Netflix.

This ensures Star Wars fans will find familiarity in its expansive and epic war narrative.

11) Space Adventure Cobra

Cobra, often likened to Japan’s version of Han Solo, embodies a similar rogueish charm with a touch of James Bond-esque campiness.

Accompanied by a robot woman, he wields a unique weapon, the “Psychogun,” which rivals the mystique of a lightsaber.

Unlike Star Wars, Cobra’s adventures are infused with a playful tone, featuring the hero encountering beautiful women regularly.

Over the years, Cobra has appeared in various iterations, including a feature film, an OVA, and a TV series available for free on YouTube.

Its undeniable goofy charm makes it a delightful watch for fans. For those craving a grungier and sillier portrayal of outer space, complete with crystalline cyborgs, gladiatorial football matches, and exotic beauties, Cobra offers the epitome of old-fashioned pulp sci-fi fantasy.

12) Captain Harlock

The Harlock franchise, despite having multiple continuities, consistently revolves around its central figure – the romanticized pirate Harlock.

He embodies the ideal of piracy, commanding a ship free from government influence and battling against corrupt authorities, whether human or alien.

Harlock’s iconic skull-faced ship, the Arcadia, is widely recognizable in anime circles, symbolizing his defiance and resilience.

The blend of historical and sci-fi aesthetics in the franchise has left a lasting impression, shaping the image of sci-fi pirates for generations.

Throughout its adaptations since the original 1978 series, Harlock’s story has been portrayed in various continuities.

Fans can choose to follow his battles against the alien Mazone, his leadership in resisting the Illumidas, or his journeys through the stars in search of a mythical utopia.

Regardless of the setting, Leiji Matsumoto’s universe offers epic dramas and a focus on grandeur, audiences with its rich storytelling.

Harlock’s enduring appeal lies in its ability to explore timeless themes of freedom, justice, and adventure through the lens of space piracy.

The character of Harlock himself embodies the archetype of the noble outlaw, drawing audiences into his world of swashbuckling exploits and daring escapades.

The Arcadia, Harlock’s legendary ship, serves as a symbol of freedom and defiance against tyranny. Its distinctive design and formidable presence reinforce Harlock’s status as a legendary figure within the anime pantheon.

Despite the variations in continuity, each iteration of the Harlock franchise maintains the core essence of its protagonist and his quest for freedom in a hostile universe.

Whether battling oppressive regimes or pursuing elusive dreams, Harlock’s unwavering determination and moral integrity resonate with audiences of all ages.

Leiji Matsumoto’s universe offers a vast and immersive setting for fans to explore, filled with rich lore and characters.

From sweeping space battles to poignant character moments, the Harlock franchise delivers a compelling blend of action, drama, and emotion.

13) Knights Of Sidonia

In Knights of Sidonia, humanity faces extinction after Earth’s destruction by shapeshifting aliens called Gauna.

The survivors aboard a fleet of seed ships include the protagonist Nagate Tanikaze, reminiscent of Luke Skywalker, who rises from obscurity to become Sidonia’s hero.

Tanikaze’s journey mirrors that of Luke Skywalker, starting as a simple, inexperienced youth and evolving into the Chosen One.

Knights of Sidonia attracts Star Wars fans with its underdog narrative, intense cosmic battles, and existential struggle for survival, ensuring nonstop excitement throughout.

14) Star Wars: Visions

Star Wars: Visions offers a unique anime take on the iconic franchise, expanding the canon in an anthology format.

Each episode, crafted by different studios and directors, explores new aspects of the familiar Star Wars universe with creative freedom.

The anthology spans various themes, from samurai battles to Sith-Jedi conflicts, all portrayed through stylized animation.

Despite its refreshing departure from the franchise’s mainline entries, Visions maintains the essence of the original universe.

Fans of Star Wars will appreciate the diverse interpretations presented in Visions, which offer fresh perspectives while staying true to the spirit of the franchise.

Each episode unfolds like a mini adventure, showcasing the creativity and talent of the anime industry.

The anthology format allows Visions to explore never-before-seen ideas and stories, enriching the Star Wars canon with new stories and characters.

Whether it’s exploring the depths of the Force or showcasing epic space battles, Visions offers something for every fan.

The series’ diverse range of animation styles adds to its appeal, providing visual diversity and enhancing the storytelling experience.

From traditional anime aesthetics to modern CGI, Visions showcases the versatility of animation in bringing the Star Wars universe to life.

Visions stands as evidence of the global reach and influence of Star Wars, embracing the anime medium to tell stories that resonate with audiences worldwide.

Its exploration of different cultures and artistic styles adds depth to the franchise, enriching its lore and mythology.

Star Wars: Visions is a celebration of creativity and innovation, offering a fresh perspective on the beloved franchise.

Whether you’re a die-hard fan or new to the Star Wars universe, Visions promises an exciting journey through a galaxy far, far away.

Star Wars: Visions expands the franchise’s horizons with its anthology format, showcasing diverse interpretations of the familiar universe.

With its blend of creative storytelling and stunning animation, Visions is a must-watch for any fan of Star Wars or anime alike.

15) Crusher Joe

Crusher Joe, while existing in the same universe as Dirty Pair, evokes a Star Wars vibe with its heroic archetypes and adventurous missions.

Led by traditional hero Joe, the team includes a heroine, a brute, a sarcastic youth, and a robot buddy, reminiscent of classic space opera dynamics.

While fantastical elements are present, the series leans more towards political thriller elements, leading to the team encountering conspiracies and engaging in graphic gunfights typical of the 1970s.

Available as a movie and two OVAs, Crusher Joe’s concise format can be seen as an advantage. The Crushers go on missions to an icy prison and a jungle world filled with killer robots, offering focused and concise adventures.

Casual anime fans can easily watch it within a day, providing a satisfying taste of outer space without overwhelming binge-watching.