Hidden-Masterpieces5-Best-Underrated-Anime-on-NetflixThese Underrated Anime on Netflix Deserve More Attention in 2025

 

Anime viewers are often attracted to popular titles like Demon Slayer or Attack on Titan, but they may overlook Netflix series that feature hidden gems. In 2025, a selection of underappreciated anime is still airing, offering captivating stories, stunning visuals, and emotionally resonant conclusions. For those tired of seeing the same shows repeatedly, this list highlights five underrated anime on Netflix that all binge-watching fans should add to their watch list.

 

1. The Orbital Children (2022)—An Underappreciated Sci-Fi Treasure

 

Based in a future space colony, The Orbital Children is the story of a group of children stranded in space after a tragic explosion. Directed by Mitsuo Iso (The Sky Crawlers), the anime is produced by Netflix and is a blend of brutal sci-fi and heavy-twist philosophical debates.

  • Numerous franchises exist that are packed with full and entertaining animated characters. But this anime has vast world-building and also discusses many philosophical ideas, which makes it more enjoyable.

  • The quality of the animation is as excellent as the best animation houses available; the zero-gravity effects are absolutely stunning.

 

2. Blue Period (2021)—An Artistic Journey

 

Adapted from Tsubasa Yamaguchi's prize-winning manga, Blue Period is the story of a high school student's struggle in the cutthroat world of art. It is different from other traditional shonen anime, which are action-adventure oriented. Blue Period is a story of discovery and the struggle and hardship of creating something artistic.

  • Although it lacks the excessively dramatic battle scenes and combat typical of many anime, Blue Period will primarily appeal to a niche audience; however, it possesses an equally profound emotional depth.

  • The anime shows how impostor syndrome impacts students and artists through its realistic fictional representation.

 

3.  Sonny Boy (2021)—A Surreal Survival Drama

 

The survival drama Sonny Boy introduces students to an expanding space of drifting realities. Sonny Boy introduces a distinctive survival concept that covers all modern conspiracy theories concerning existentialism and social structures. In this surrealist experiment of Shingo Natsume, who directed season 1 of One-Punch Man, discover that it is part humor, part emotion, and part story.

  • Its non-linear plot can attract a wide audience, especially those who appreciate overarching themes. Love might feel excessive at times, so the term "appreciate" could be more suitable in this context. 

  • The minimalist art style stands out as the main feature, making the visuals both beautiful and innovative while expanding storytelling concepts.

 

4. Great Pretender (2020) – A Classy Heist Adventure

 

Inspired by a series of international cons that scammers perpetrated, this original Netflix anime is filled with breathtaking animation and shocking surprise twists and turns that will keep you guessing and on the edge of your seat with every episode.

  • Why does this series receive less recognition than others?  watched Lupin III first became interested  in this story's sequel.
  • Lupin III presents a classic heist narrative in anime, yet Great Pretender delivers more engaging content.

 

5. Heaven's Design Team (2021)—A Wholesome Comedy

 

Have you ever wondered how certain animals were built? An eccentric animated series presents the imaginative journey of heaven-based employees who create Earth's animal population. The program delivers an engaging story that combines humor with unexpected emotional depth.

  • The show's creative quality surpasses what most people can achieve despite its easy presentation as a comedy.

  • The blend of humor and fun facts about animals makes it both entertaining and educational.

 

Final Thoughts: Why These Hidden Anime Gems Deserve Attention

 

While blockbuster anime releases often dominate discussions, there are many lesser-known hidden gems on Netflix that provide thrilling and emotive experiences, leaving a lasting impression long after the credits roll. These hidden gems feature a variety of plots, from mind-bending science fiction sagas to coming-of-age stories and clever heist schemes. They demonstrate that some of the best anime is often the most overlooked. If you're tired of the same usual recommendations and are looking for something different in 2025, consider exploring these five hidden anime gems.