10 best political anime you should watch

Political anime has become incredibly popular over the years. These shows offer complex plots and insights into how governments function, the use and abuse of power, and the political issues that societies face. As a subgenre, political anime often tackles themes that resonate with viewers worldwide.

Political anime comes in many forms - from subtle undertones to overt commentary. They allow viewers to appreciate different political ideologies while also being thoroughly entertained. The combination of drama, action, and high stakes in political anime makes for binge-worthy content.

For anime enthusiasts who enjoy shows that delve into the workings of fictional political systems, there are some great options to choose from. Here are 10 of the best political anime you should add to your watchlist. Each of these political anime offers a unique perspective on governance and power dynamics.

10 riveting political anime that will keep you hooked

1) Legend of the Galactic Heroes

Legend of the Galactic Heroes (Image via Artland)

Set in the distant future, Legend of the Galactic Heroes is a classic political anime that depicts the epic conflict between the autocratic Galactic Empire and the democratic Free Planets Alliance. The story intricately examines the ideological differences between the two factions.

Yang Wen-li, a reluctant military hero of the Alliance, represents the ideals of democracy and opposition to authoritarianism. His tactical brilliance and reservations about authoritarian rule are put to the test against Reinhard von Lohengramm, an ambitious rising admiral seeking to reform the Empire.

As Reinhard ascends to become the Emperor, Yang tries to uphold democratic governance and civil liberties in the face of corruption and incompetence within the Alliance he serves. This space opera masterfully conveys political theory and philosophies on governance through the grand interstellar warfare between two mighty political entities.

2) Psycho-Pass

In the realm of dystopian political anime, Psycho-Pass stands out with its exploration of a future ruled by the totalitarian Sibyl System. People's likelihood of committing crimes is constantly scanned to identify latent criminals. Those deemed threats based on their psyches and stress levels are ruthlessly tracked, apprehended, and detained or eliminated by the authorities.

The show examines the flaws of this Orwellian, law-and-order society. Public service workers enforce Sibyl's decrees without question until some start to doubt the system's objectivity and methods. Rebel groups try to expose the regime's control, surveillance overreach, lack of transparency, and denial of basic freedoms.

Through tense battles between security officials and anti-establishment groups, Psycho-Pass provides insightful commentary on what constitutes a just system. It also explores political philosophies about the proper limits on state power and individual liberty.

3) Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion

Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion (Image via Sunrise)

Mecha and political anime blend seamlessly in Code Geass, which delivers an electrifying political premise - a teenage mastermind named Lelouch gains the power to compel others to obey his commands.

After the invasion of Japan by the Holy Britannian Empire, he vows to overthrow Britannia and seek revenge for his mother's death, while also creating a better world for his disabled sister. Lelouch becomes the leader of the resistance movement against Britannia's occupation.

With his strategic brilliance and ruthlessness amplified by his powers, he stages revolutions and wages war against the oppressive empire. Code Geass is a thrilling political thriller centered around resistance movements and revolutionary ideology.

4) Moribito - Guardian of the Spirit

Moribito - Guardian of the Spirit (Image via Production I.G)

For a more grounded take on political intrigue, Moribito - Guardian of the Spirit offers intricate world-building inspired by ancient Asian cultures. While not as overtly political as some other political anime on this list, it still offers valuable insights into governance and power struggles.

The fantasy anime follows Balsa, a skilled female bodyguard on the run who vows to atone for lives taken during her violent past. She finds herself protecting the young Prince Chagum, who carries within him a misunderstood water spirit.

With assassins on their trail, they get caught up in a struggle between the emperor and his political rivals jostling over the mysterious spirit's power. There is a courtly conspiracy, subtle social commentary, and rich folklore woven into this beautifully animated work.

5) Yona of the Dawn

Yona of the Dawn is a political anime that offers drama and redemption in the aftermath of a royal palace coup. Princess Yona lives an idyllic life being doted upon by her father King II until her cousin Su-won murders him and seizes the throne.

Yona goes into hiding with her loyal bodyguard Hak as Su-won consolidates power by waging strategic campaigns against factions who refuse to surrender. Viewers get an intimate look into palace intrigue, the geostrategic importance of territorial wars, and how rulers maintain control.

Viewers also see Yona's inspiring personal growth from a sheltered princess to a resilient young leader caring for her people and standing up to oppressors. With its commentary on the qualities that make a good ruler, themes of forgiveness, and developing strong convictions in one's principles, Yona of the Dawn makes for an impactful political drama.

6) Attack on Titan

Attack on Titan (Image via Wit Studio / MAPPA)

No list of political anime is complete without the global phenomenon that is Attack on Titan. While it may not seem like a traditional political anime at first glance, its complex narrative delves deep into political themes as the story progresses.

Humanity lives inside walled city-states, living in fear of grotesque, human-eating Titans that roam outside the walls. When the walls are breached and Titans lay waste to their home, three friends join the military fighting to turn the tide against the Titans.

Dark conspiracies unfold as various factions and rulers clash in power struggles that spiral into chaotic coup attempts and civil war. Attack on Titan keeps viewers hooked with mysteries surrounding the true nature of the Titans and insights into the functioning of propaganda, authoritarianism, and populist uprisings.

7) GATE

GATE offers a fun sci-fi take on modern military and political mechanics, making it a unique entry into the world of political anime. When a portal to a fantasy world mysteriously opens in modern-day Japan, the Japanese Self-Defense Forces are sent to the other side.

They discover an empire initially mobilizing for war against Japan. This sets up an interesting East-meets-West encounter as Japanese troops get embroiled in medieval power struggles using their advanced weaponry and technology as an advantage.

Seeing contemporary political theories and democratic values contrast against monarchies and tribal leadership is interesting. GATE has comedic moments punctuating its exploration of international relations issues like how a vastly differing can civilizations coexist peacefully.

8) The Genius Prince's Guide to Raising a Nation Out of Debt

The Genius Prince's Guide to Raising a Nation Out of Debt (Image via Yokohama Animation Laboratory)

In the realm of satirical political anime, The Genius Prince's Guide to Raising a Nation Out of Debt stands out for its humorous take on geopolitics and statecraft. The story follows Prince Wein, the eccentric but brilliant crown prince of the destitute Kingdom of Natra.

Though deemed somewhat unimportant by his father, Wein formulates ingenious ploys and economic reforms to rescue Natra from financial ruin. What ensues is hilarious satire and surprisingly insightful commentary on budgeting, taxation, employment, foreign investment, and coups d'etat.

Under the guise of parody and Wein's deadpan humor, this "guide" to running a nation presents some real practical solutions politicians have relied on.

9) Snow White with the Red Hair

Snow White with the Red Hair (Image via Bones)

For a Disney-esque fairy tale take on politics, Snow White with the Red Hair delivers romance and poignant themes in a fantasy setting. While it may be a gentler introduction to political themes compared to other political anime on this list, it still offers valuable insights.

Shirayuki is a headstrong herbalist who escapes the unwanted advances of the conceited Prince of Tanbarun. She arrives in Clarines and befriends Prince Zen and his aides as they reform politics opening the aristocracy to commoners based on merit, not status.

There are wholesome moments between Shirayuki and Zen as well as slices of life in Clarines' castle highlighting bureaucratic workings. While not intensely political, Snow White with the Red Hair portrays subtle societal shifts and a new generation of egalitarian leadership ascending the throne.

10) The Ambition of Oda Nobuna

The Ambition of Oda Nobuna (Image via Madhouse)

For an amusing gender-swapped take on historical politics, The Ambition of Oda Nobuna reimagines famous Sengoku-era warlords as female characters. This unique approach to political anime offers both entertainment and historical context.

Ordinary high school student Yoshiharu gets transported back to 16th-century feudal Japan and meets the female version of ambitious conqueror Oda Nobunaga. Seeing historical events play out with these spirited female renditions of famous military commanders is quite entertaining.

Despite the seeming inanity of the premise, all the political maneuverings, domestic policies, and war strategies remain well-researched and insightful. The Ambition of Oda Nobuna playfully subverts expectations and offers commentary on gender roles in politics and historical events shaping Japanese governance.

Conclusion

Political anime may not be suited for those looking for light entertainment, given their complex narratives and socio-political commentary. However, they offer an educational and thought-provoking viewing experience that sets them apart from stereotypical action cartoons.

The political anime listed here showcases just how creative and diverse narratives in this subgenre can be. If you want plots with high stakes, ideological clashes, and war set on fantastic scales - ranging from intergalactic empires to ancient Japanese eras - political anime has something for you.

These electrifying anime will give you a newfound appreciation for governance systems and political theory.