Dimension W blends sci-fi noir, unconventional power systems, and morally complex characters into a stylish underdog story that often subverts genre expectations. Its mix of futuristic tech, flawed protagonists, and episodic-yet-arching narrative makes it stand out from more mainstream sci-fi anime.
The following 15 underrated anime share similar themes—unique power mechanics, character-driven storytelling, and bold narrative risks—and deserve far more attention than they typically receive.
1. No Guns Life (2019)
- Streaming: Crunchyroll
- Episodes: 24
- Rating: ~7.3 (MAL)
- Studio/Staff: Madhouse; based on Tsutomu Nihei’s manga
Plot: In a city of cybernetic “Extended,” a hard-boiled detective with a gun for a head solves crimes tied to corporate conspiracies.
Similarities: Noir tone, cyberpunk setting, antihero lead, and episodic cases that feed into a larger mystery—very Dimension W in spirit.
2. Cop Craft (2019)
- Streaming: Crunchyroll
- Episodes: 12
- Rating: ~6.7 (MAL)
- Studio: Millepensee
Plot: A grizzled detective partners with a knight from a fantasy world after an interdimensional portal opens.
Similarities: Buddy-cop dynamic, culture clash, grounded investigation within a high-concept world.
3. Kokkoku (2018)
- Streaming: Amazon Prime Video
- Episodes: 12
- Rating: ~7.0 (MAL)
- Studio: Geno Studio
Plot: A family becomes trapped in a frozen moment of time and uncovers hidden factions controlling this strange power.
Similarities: Unique power system, mystery-driven plot, and subversion of typical time-stop tropes.
4. Eve no Jikan (Time of Eve) (2008)
- Streaming: HIDIVE
- Episodes: 6 (ONA) / Film version available
- Rating: ~8.0 (MAL)
- Studio: Studio Rikka
Plot: A quiet café enforces a rule: no distinction between humans and androids.
Similarities: Philosophical sci-fi, human–technology relationships, and understated storytelling.
5. Texhnolyze (2003)
- Streaming: Limited/physical release
- Episodes: 22
- Rating: ~7.7 (MAL)
- Studio: Madhouse
Plot: A brutal underground city spirals toward collapse as factions fight over cybernetic evolution.
Similarities: Dark cyberpunk tone, minimal exposition, and bleak examination of progress.
6. ID: INVADED (2020)
- Streaming: Crunchyroll
- Episodes: 13
- Rating: ~7.9 (MAL)
- Studio: NAZ
Plot: Detectives enter the subconscious of killers to solve crimes.
Similarities: Psychological mystery, unconventional investigation tools, and damaged protagonists.
7. Bubuki Buranki (2016)
- Streaming: Crunchyroll
- Episodes: 24
- Rating: ~6.5 (MAL)
- Studio: SANZIGEN
Plot: A group of teens control sentient weapons tied to ancient giants.
Similarities: Experimental animation, unique power mechanics, and character-focused conflict.
8. PlanetES (2003)
- Streaming: Physical / limited digital
- Episodes: 26
- Rating: ~8.3 (MAL)
- Studio: Sunrise
Plot: Space debris collectors struggle with dangerous work and personal ambitions.
Similarities: Grounded sci-fi, working-class protagonists, and realistic consequences of technology.
9. Coppelion (2013)
- Streaming: HIDIVE
- Episodes: 13
- Rating: ~6.6 (MAL)
- Studio: GoHands
Plot: Genetically engineered girls explore a radioactive, abandoned Tokyo.
Similarities: Post-apocalyptic atmosphere and ethical questions around engineered humans.
10. Occult Nine (2016)
- Streaming: Crunchyroll
- Episodes: 12
- Rating: ~6.9 (MAL)
- Studio: A-1 Pictures
Plot: A group of misfits investigate supernatural rumors that turn deadly real.
Similarities: Ensemble cast, escalating mysteries, and genre subversion.
11. Ergo Proxy (2006)
- Streaming: Crunchyroll
- Episodes: 23
- Rating: ~7.9 (MAL)
- Studio: Manglobe
Plot: A dystopian city hides secrets about humanity’s survival.
Similarities: Philosophical cyberpunk, noir pacing, and identity-driven narrative.
12. Dennou Coil (2007)
- Streaming: HIDIVE
- Episodes: 26
- Rating: ~8.0 (MAL)
- Studio: Madhouse
Plot: Children explore augmented reality glasses that reveal dangerous glitches.
Similarities: Tech-focused worldbuilding and emotional depth beneath a lighter exterior.
13. Blame! (2017 – Film)
- Streaming: Netflix
- Episodes: Film
- Rating: ~7.1 (MAL)
- Studio: Polygon Pictures
Plot: A lone wanderer searches a megastructure for the key to save humanity.
Similarities: Minimal dialogue, oppressive sci-fi atmosphere, and isolation-driven storytelling.
14. Akudama Drive (2020)
- Streaming: Funimation
- Episodes: 12
- Rating: ~7.6 (MAL)
- Studio: Pierrot
Plot: Criminals take on a job that spirals into societal collapse.
Similarities: Cyberpunk chaos, antiheroes, and subversion of moral expectations.
15. Innocence: Ghost in the Shell 2 (2004)
- Streaming: Apple TV / Amazon (rental)
- Episodes: Film
- Rating: ~7.8 (MAL)
- Studio: Production I.G
Plot: A cybercrime investigation into rogue gynoids explores consciousness itself.
Similarities: Philosophical sci-fi, methodical pacing, and deep tech ethics.
Why These Anime Work for Dimension W Fans
These series capture what makes Dimension W compelling: inventive power systems, morally gray characters, and narratives that challenge expectations rather than follow trends. Whether through cyberpunk noir, experimental storytelling, or deeply human questions about technology, each title expands on themes that Dimension W fans already appreciate—often in riskier, more unconventional ways.
