Shinichirō Watanabe has been a trailblazer in the realm of sci-fi anime since his work on the acclaimed Macross Plus. Over his illustrious 35-year career, he has crafted some of the most iconic and influential series, including Cowboy Bebop. This jazz-infused masterpiece follows a group of eclectic space bounty hunters navigating the cosmos in a neo-noir style. The timeless appeal of Cowboy Bebop is significantly enhanced by Yoko Kanno's iconic score, which continues to resonate through live performances and soundtrack re-releases.
Cowboy Bebop's influence extends far beyond its fanbase, impacting creators across various genres. Notable figures like Rian Johnson of Star Wars, Michael Dante DiMartino and Bryan Konietzko of Avatar: The Last Airbender, and Diego Molano of Victor And Valentino have all acknowledged its profound impact on their work. This series not only captivates anime enthusiasts but also attracts viewers who typically do not watch anime, solidifying its status as a cornerstone of the anime canon.
If you're seeking more adventures akin to Cowboy Bebop, here are six anime series that capture similar themes and vibes:
6 Best Anime Like Cowboy Bebop
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Lazarus
Adult SwimOur first recommendation is Watanabe's latest venture, Lazarus, which premiered its first episode on Adult Swim at midnight on April 5th. Produced by MAPPA and Sola Entertainment, and featuring art direction by John Wick's Chad Stahelski and original compositions by Kamasi Washington, Floating Points, and Bonobos, Lazarus is generating significant buzz as one of the most anticipated anime releases of the year. This series echoes the gritty, underdog sci-fi essence of Cowboy Bebop, offering a thrilling narrative set in 2025.
Lazarus follows the aftermath of a life-saving drug that turns deadly three years after its use, threatening millions. The story centers on Axel, a convict turned hero, who must assemble a team to find the drug's creator and develop an antidote within 30 days. It's a gripping, dark ride that fans of Watanabe's style will relish.
Terminator Zero
NetflixFor those who enjoy the darker, more grounded aspects of sci-fi, Terminator Zero, directed by Masashi Kudō and produced by Production IG and Mattson Tomlin, is a compelling choice. While more serious than Cowboy Bebop, it shares a similar flair for stylish action and gunplay that will satisfy fans' cravings.
Set in contemporary times, Terminator Zero offers a fresh take on the Terminator universe, making it a must-watch in 2025. Its aesthetic appeal and boundary-pushing narrative provide a visually stunning experience that mirrors the allure of Cowboy Bebop.
Space Dandy
CrunchyrollShinichirō Watanabe's Space Dandy, directed by Shingo Natsume and produced by Bones, offers a humorous twist on the space opera genre. This series evokes the nostalgia of classic Saturday morning cartoons while paying homage to numerous sci-fi and anime classics.
The series follows Dandy, a stylish bounty hunter on a mission to discover and register new alien species. Alongside his robot and cat companions, Dandy's adventures delve into existential themes, making Space Dandy a delightful and rewatchable series that captures the spirit of Cowboy Bebop.
Lupin 3rd
Tokyo MovieFor a dose of adventurous joy and limitless potential similar to Cowboy Bebop, Lupin III is an excellent choice. This crime caper, created by Kazuhiko Katō under the pseudonym Monkey Punch, has expanded across various media since its 1965 debut.
The 1971 anime adaptation, directed by Masaaki Ōsumi and featuring early work by Studio Ghibli legends Hayao Miyazaki and Isao Takahata, is a great starting point. With its charming protagonist and extensive library of stories, movies, and shows, Lupin III offers endless entertainment for fans.
Samurai Champloo
CrunchyrollOften considered the spiritual successor to Cowboy Bebop, Samurai Champloo shares Watanabe's signature style and storytelling. Despite its historical setting, the series explores themes of life, freedom, and mortality, resonating with the core elements of Bebop.
The narrative follows a trio of morally ambiguous heroes: Mugen, Fuu, and Jin, as they navigate the Edo period. Watanabe's focus on inclusion and tolerance adds a unique layer to this action-packed tale, making it a must-watch for fans of his work.
Trigun
Adult SwimIf you're drawn to Cowboy Bebop's stylish action and complex anti-heroes, Trigun will captivate you. Adapted from Yasuhiro Nightow's manga, this noir-inspired space western follows Vash, a man with a massive bounty due to his uncontrollable powers that led to the destruction of a city.
As the series unfolds, viewers gain insight into Vash's character and the forces pursuing him, creating a compelling narrative that earned Trigun widespread acclaim. Its success in both Japan and the US underscores its appeal to fans of Cowboy Bebop's genre-blending storytelling.
