Best Animes to Watch on Netflix (Based on Manga)
Netflix has become a hub for anime enthusiasts, offering a diverse selection of series that cater to various tastes—whether you're into action-packed shonen, emotional dramas, or mind-bending sci-fi. One of the best aspects of Netflix's anime collection is that many of them are based on popular manga , ensuring well-developed stories, rich characters, and engaging plotlines.
In this guide, we’ll explore the best anime series on Netflix that originated from manga, answering the commonly searched question: "Which best animes to watch on Netflix are based on manga?"
Why Watch Anime Based on Manga?
Before diving into the list, let’s briefly discuss why manga-based anime are often highly regarded:
- Well-Developed Stories – Manga allows for deeper world-building and character development, which often translates well into anime.
- Faithful Adaptation – Many anime series closely follow the manga, meaning fans get an authentic experience.
- Diverse Genres – From thrillers to rom-coms, manga covers all genres, giving anime a wide range of source material.
- Popularity Guarantee – If a manga is successful enough to get an anime adaptation, it's usually worth watching.
Now, let’s explore the top Netflix anime series based on manga!
1. Attack on Titan (Shingeki no Kyojin)
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Manga by:
Hajime Isayama
🎭
Genres:
Action, Dark Fantasy, Drama
One of the most iconic anime of the 2010s, Attack on Titan is a visceral, high-stakes story about humanity’s last stand against man-eating Titans. The anime stays faithful to the manga, delivering intense action, shocking twists, and deep philosophical themes.
Why Watch It?
- One of the best-written anime of all time.
- Jaw-dropping animation and soundtrack.
- Complex characters with morally gray decisions.
(Note: Some seasons may not be available in all regions due to licensing.)
2. Demon Slayer (Kimetsu no Yaiba)
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Manga by:
Koyoharu Gotōge
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Genres:
Action, Dark Fantasy, Supernatural
Demon Slayer took the anime world by storm with its stunning animation (courtesy of Ufotable) and emotional storytelling. The series follows Tanjiro Kamado, a young boy who becomes a demon slayer to avenge his family and cure his sister, Nezuko.
Why Watch It?
- Some of the best fight scenes in anime history.
- Heartfelt character dynamics.
- The manga has concluded, so the anime will likely adapt the full story.
3. Death Note
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Manga by:
Tsugumi Ohba & Takeshi Obata
🎭
Genres:
Psychological Thriller, Mystery, Supernatural
A classic in the psychological thriller genre, Death Note pits genius high schooler Light Yagami against the enigmatic detective L in a battle of wits over a supernatural notebook that can kill anyone whose name is written in it.
Why Watch It?
- One of the most gripping cat-and-mouse stories ever.
- Deep moral dilemmas and mind games.
- The anime adaptation is widely considered superior to the manga.
4. Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood
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Manga by:
Hiromu Arakawa
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Genres:
Adventure, Fantasy, Steampunk
Often hailed as the greatest anime of all time , Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood is a faithful adaptation of the manga, following Edward and Alphonse Elric’s journey to reclaim their bodies after a failed alchemical experiment.
Why Watch It?
- Perfect blend of action, emotion, and philosophy.
- Well-paced storytelling with no filler.
- A satisfying, conclusive ending.
5. Hunter x Hunter (2011)
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Manga by:
Yoshihiro Togashi
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Genres:
Adventure, Fantasy, Martial Arts
This beloved shonen series follows Gon Freecss as he trains to become a Hunter and find his long-lost father. The 2011 anime adaptation is widely praised for its excellent pacing, character development, and emotional depth.
Why Watch It?
- One of the best-written shonen anime ever.
- Each arc introduces new, well-developed characters.
- The
Chimera Ant Arc
is a masterpiece in storytelling.
(Note: Only certain seasons are available on Netflix, depending on the region.)
6. JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure
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Manga by:
Hirohiko Araki
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Genres:
Action, Supernatural, Adventure
A stylistic, over-the-top anime with multiple story arcs following the Joestar bloodline, JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure is known for its unique art, creative battles (featuring "Stands"), and memeworthy moments.
Why Watch It?
- Each part feels like a different genre (vampires, prison breaks, mafia stories).
- Unmatched creativity in fights.
- A cult classic with a massive fanbase.
7. Vinland Saga
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Manga by:
Makoto Yukimura
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Genres:
Historical, Action, Drama
This Viking epic follows Thorfinn, a young warrior seeking revenge in a brutal medieval world. The anime’s first season is a masterclass in historical fiction, blending intense battles with deep philosophical themes.
Why Watch It?
- Gritty, realistic portrayal of Viking life.
- Stunning animation by Wit Studio (
Attack on Titan
’s original animators).
- Later arcs shift focus from revenge to redemption.
8. Berserk (1997) & Berserk: The Golden Age Arc (Movies/2016)
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Manga by:
Kentaro Miura
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Genres:
Dark Fantasy, Horror, Tragedy
Berserk is a dark, medieval tale of vengeance, betrayal, and supernatural horror. While the 1997 anime (available on Netflix in some regions) is the best adaptation, the manga remains one of the greatest fantasy works ever.
Why Watch It?
- One of the most mature and philosophical anime ever.
- The Eclipse scene is legendary in anime history.
- The manga’s artwork is breathtaking (though unfinished due to the author’s passing).
9. Blue Period
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Manga by:
Tsubasa Yamaguchi
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Genres:
Slice of Life, Drama, Coming-of-Age
A rare anime about the struggles of becoming an artist, Blue Period follows high schooler Yatora as he discovers his passion for painting and enters the competitive world of art school.
Why Watch It?
- Deeply relatable for aspiring artists.
- Beautiful depiction of self-discovery.
- A refreshing break from action-heavy anime.
10. The Promised Neverland (Season 1 Only)
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Manga by:
Kaiu Shirai & Posuka Demizu
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Genres:
Psychological Horror, Thriller, Mystery
A gripping story about children discovering a horrifying secret in their orphanage, The Promised Neverland ’s first season is a masterful thriller. ( Avoid Season 2, as it deviates from the manga. )
Why Watch It?
- One of the best first episodes in anime history.
- A chilling, high-stakes cat-and-mouse game.
- Great character dynamics.
Final Thoughts
If you're looking for the best anime on Netflix based on manga , this list covers a wide range of genres—from dark fantasy ( Berserk, Attack on Titan ) to psychological thrillers ( Death Note, The Promised Neverland ) and emotional coming-of-age stories ( Blue Period ).
Bonus Tip:
Since Netflix’s anime catalog varies by region, consider using a VPN if certain titles are unavailable in your country.
Which of these have you watched? Did we miss any great manga-based anime on Netflix? Let us know in the comments! 🚀