10 Popular Original Anime That Are Not Adaptations from Manga, From Code Geass to Evangelion!

Cowboy Bebop, created by Shinichiro Watanabe, is an original anime that has become a benchmark for many creators. It tells the story of a group of bounty hunters in space with a distinctive noir and jazz style. The visual style, music, and narration are like a work of art.

Neon Genesis Evangelion is one of the most iconic anime of all time. Created by Hideaki Anno and Studio Gainax, this anime was initially truly original before being adapted into other media. The story combines mecha, psychology, and existential drama that makes you think hard.

Code Geass is directed by Goro Taniguchi and written by Ichiro Okouchi. This anime has a super intense political plot and mecha action. Lelouch becomes a favorite antihero for many, and the story is made specifically for anime, not an adaptation from anywhere.

Studio Trigger made a big debut with the original anime titled Kill La Kill. The story is full of action, over-the-top style, and absurd humor typical of Trigger. It tells the story of Ryuko Matoi searching for her father's killer, wrapped in super cool costume battles.

Eureka Seven is one of the most beloved original anime of the 2000s. It features a futuristic world, mechas that can surf in the air, and a warm love story between Renton and Eureka. The music is also incredibly cool.

From studio Gainax, the anime Tengen Toppa Gurren Lagann is purely original and full of spirit. It tells the story of two teenagers fighting against tyrannical forces in an underground world with giant robots. The energy is truly explosive!

Psycho-Pass is an original dystopian sci-fi anime from Production I.G that highlights a world where computer systems can assess a person's criminal level. Philosophical, dark, and full of moral questions, it's perfect for those who enjoy anime with heavy stories.

Anohana: The Flower We Saw That Day is one of the most touching drama anime that is not an adaptation. The story is about a group of childhood friends trying to come to terms with the loss of one of their own. Get ready to cry your eyes out.

The anime Carole & Tuesday is set on Mars and tells the story of two girls struggling through music. Original, full of positive messages, and its visuals and soundtrack are top-tier.

Madoka Magica looks like a typical magical girl anime, but don't be fooled, this is one of the darkest and most shocking original anime ever made. Produced by Shaft with a story by Gen Urobuchi, it is a total success.