The current combination of TV streaming becoming the new norm and the anime genre finding an impressive foothold in Western pop culture has done wonders for fans worldwide. And even though Amazon Prime Video is probably looked upon as a secondary streaming platform for fans when it comes to checking out anime content, especially with the likes of Crunchyroll and Funimation available, the service still holds a respectable library of anime TV series and movies alike. Plus, being seen as a supplement isn’t a setback in terms of anime appeal, as millions of consumers around the world already make use of Amazon Prime subscriptions.
It’s quite the selection of anime content all things considered, with the likes of Vinland Saga season 1 arguably being Prime Video’s highlight in this genre, but there’s also an impressive level of variety in the content that’s on offer.
The anime genre, thankfully, no longer retains the niche status that made it so difficult to access in the west in the 2000s and earlier, but the genre can admittedly still come off as intimidating to dive into for newcomers. However, for those who might be feeling a little overwhelmed but are still intrigued by the genre, we also have worthwhile guides on the best anime on Netflix and the best anime on Hulu to help fans make the most of their monthly streaming subscription dollars.
This Amazon Prime Video exclusive series takes place in feudal Japan through the infamous ronin Manji, known as the Hundred Man Killer. He earned this name by killing 100 innocent people, but the most terrifying aspect of the swordsman is his immortality. Cursed by an 800-year-old nun with bloodworms that can cure nearly any wound, Manji agrees to go on a quest to kill 1,000 evil men to atone for his crimes and be free of immortality. Along the way, he’s recruited by 16-year-old Rin Asano, who requests his help in getting revenge on the people who murdered her parents.
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Based on a popular series of light novels, Grimoire of Zero centers on Zero, an experienced witch who must team with a mercenary to find a magical tome. Their relationship, combined with the epic scope of the series, help make it a standout among fantasy anime.
Vikings get the anime treatment in Vinland Saga, one of the newer entries on this list. The Vikings have dominated society for a thousand years and have an insatiable thirst for violence. Thorfinn grows up in this culture, spending much of his boyhood on a battlefield, building his skills to ultimately achieve revenge for his father’s murder.
A rom-com anime? Why not! Narumi changes jobs, only to reunite with Hirotaka, a childhood friend who has grown up into a good-looking, highly skilled employee. The two resume their chemistry from childhood and soon catch feelings for one another. However, they’re both secretly otaku — massive nerds. As such, a serious romantic relationship is difficult to find through all of the immense awkwardness.
An entertaining blend of science fiction, fantasy, and social commentary, Elfen Lied centers on Lucy, a member of the Diclonius species who has horn-life bone protusions on her forehead and possesses the power of telekinesis. The series chronicles Lucy’s journey as she struggles to escape being imprisoned just because she’s different and find the acceptance she has desired her entire life.
Ash Lynx is a 17-year-old gang leader on the streets of New York City, but he’s still under the thumb of mob boss Dino Golzine. When Ash discovers a mystery drug called “Banana Fish” on one of Dino’s men, Ash begins asking questions, falling down a rabbit hole that will draw him closer to the death of his older brother. There’s no telling just how high the conspiracy goes.
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