Our top 5 favourite Anime series

"Wasteland Archive #092: The Screen Scroll"
"Buried in a rusted out entertainment hub, I found it—a playback device humming faintly with preserved visuals from the old world. Five entries stood out, each an ode to resilience, rebellion, and the human spirit.

​There’s something magical about anime—the way it combines art, storytelling, and emotion into unforgettable experiences. Here are our top five favorite anime that left a lasting impression, each offering a unique blend of creativity, action, and heart.

1. Samurai Champloo
A timeless classic that seamlessly fuses feudal Japan with hip-hop culture, Samurai Champloo is a masterpiece from the mind of Shinichirō Watanabe. The series follows three unlikely companions: the brash and unpredictable Mugen, the stoic and honorable Jin, and the headstrong Fuu, on a journey to find “the samurai who smells of sunflowers.” What sets this anime apart is its eclectic soundtrack, stylish fight choreography, and exploration of themes like identity, freedom, and personal growth. It’s a perfect blend of action, humor, and poignant storytelling.

2. Space Dandy
“He’s a dandy guy... in space!” Space Dandy is an intergalactic odyssey like no other. Directed by Watanabe (yes, again), this zany, episodic anime follows the misadventures of Dandy, a carefree alien hunter, along with his sarcastic robot companion QT and a space cat-like alien named Meow. Each episode is wildly different, from absurd humor to profound existentialism, all wrapped in stunning animation. It’s a cosmic comedy that doesn’t take itself too seriously—except when it does—and we’re here for every second of it.

3. Mob Psycho 100
Created by the same mind behind One Punch Man, Mob Psycho 100 tells the story of Shigeo Kageyama (a.k.a. Mob), a shy middle schooler with extraordinary psychic powers. Despite his immense abilities, Mob wants nothing more than to live a normal life and control his emotions, which trigger his psychic explosions. With breathtaking animation, heartfelt character development, and a narrative that delves into self-discovery, Mob Psycho 100 is a brilliant mix of humor, action, and emotional depth. It’s a reminder that true strength comes from within.

4. One Punch Man
What if being the strongest hero in the world was... boring? That’s the question One Punch Man hilariously answers through Saitama, an overpowered hero who defeats any enemy with a single punch. Despite his god-like strength, Saitama struggles with existential boredom and finding recognition in a world obsessed with appearances and rankings. With its sharp satire, explosive battles, and lovable characters (looking at you, Genos!), One Punch Man is a must-watch for action and comedy fans alike.

5. Dragon Ball Z Abridged
While not a traditional anime, Dragon Ball Z Abridged deserves a spot on this list for its sheer brilliance. Created by Team Four Star, this fan-made parody condenses and reimagines the epic battles and drama of Dragon Ball Z with razor-sharp humor and clever writing. It’s a loving homage that pokes fun at the original while amplifying its best moments. From Vegeta’s iconic lines (“Over 9000!”) to the hilarious recontextualization of characters like Nappa, it’s an unforgettable experience that’s both nostalgic and fresh.

Final Thoughts
Whether you’re a long-time anime fan or just starting your journey, these five shows offer something special. From the stylish battles of Samurai Champloo to the cosmic absurdity of Space Dandy and the emotional highs of Mob Psycho 100, there’s an anime here for everyone. And if you’re in the mood for laughter, Dragon Ball Z Abridged is the perfect pick. What are your favorite anime? Let us know in the comments!