Netflix Anime Originals 2022: A Year In Review

Oct 22, 2025 by Jhon Lennon 47 views

Hey anime fans, let's dive into the world of Netflix Anime Originals 2022! It was a year packed with action, romance, and everything in between. We're going to break down the hits, the misses, and everything in between. So grab your snacks, and let's get started!

The Rise of Netflix Anime: 2022's Impact

Netflix's investment in anime has been undeniable, and in 2022, we saw the fruits of that labor. The streaming giant ramped up its production and acquisition of anime content, solidifying its place as a major player in the anime industry. This was particularly evident in the number of Netflix Anime Originals that premiered throughout the year. But it's not just about quantity; Netflix has also been aiming for quality, partnering with renowned animation studios and attracting top-tier talent. The goal? To create a diverse library that caters to a wide range of tastes, from the established anime aficionado to the curious newcomer. Netflix wants to be your go-to source for the best anime, and 2022 was a big step in that direction. The impact of Netflix Anime is far-reaching, influencing viewing habits and even shaping the future of anime production. By bringing anime to a global audience, Netflix is helping to increase its popularity and influence other streaming services to provide similar content. The streaming platform's strategy is to grow and diversify its anime catalog, ensuring that its audience is constantly entertained with new and exclusive anime series and films. Netflix's commitment to anime production and distribution has significantly influenced the industry's landscape. By investing heavily in anime, Netflix has not only made a significant impact on its viewers but also on the anime industry as a whole. This has led to an increase in production, greater accessibility for fans, and increased global recognition of this exciting art form. Netflix has become a major player in the anime world, and its impact is only set to grow in the coming years. Through strategic partnerships, original productions, and global distribution, Netflix is shaping the future of anime. The Netflix Anime strategy seems to be paying off, with a steady increase in viewership and critical acclaim. The platform is becoming a hub for both established and emerging anime series, offering a wide variety of genres, from action-packed adventures to heartwarming slice-of-life stories. Netflix’s influence extends beyond mere distribution; it’s shaping the creative landscape of anime. By commissioning original works and collaborating with top studios, Netflix is pushing boundaries, fostering innovation, and introducing new styles and techniques to the industry. As the platform's anime library continues to expand, it's clear that Netflix is committed to delivering premium anime experiences to viewers worldwide, and this commitment is reflected in the diverse and high-quality content released in 2022.

Key Trends of 2022

2022 was a year where several trends emerged in Netflix Anime. Here's a quick rundown:

Continued Investment in Originals: Netflix doubled down on original anime productions. This means more exclusive content for subscribers.
Global Expansion: Anime continues to gain popularity worldwide, and Netflix is capitalizing on this with global distribution and localization efforts.
Genre Diversity: From action-packed shonen to slice-of-life and isekai stories, there was a show for everyone.

Top Netflix Anime Originals of 2022: The Must-Watch List

Alright, let's get to the good stuff! Here are some of the top Netflix Anime Originals of 2022, the ones that had us glued to our screens and the ones you absolutely shouldn't miss. Remember that this is just a small selection; there were tons of great series.

1. Cyberpunk: Edgerunners

Cyberpunk: Edgerunners burst onto the scene with its stunning visuals, gripping story, and high-octane action. This series, based on the Cyberpunk 2077 video game, garnered both critical and audience acclaim. The anime masterfully captured the gritty, dystopian world of Night City, and it's full of memorable characters. The animation is top-notch, blending the hyper-stylized look with intense action sequences. If you like dark themes, mature storytelling, and an emotional rollercoaster, this is your jam. Cyberpunk: Edgerunners is more than just a tie-in; it's a standalone masterpiece.

2. JoJo's Bizarre Adventure: Stone Ocean

JoJo's Bizarre Adventure: Stone Ocean continued the epic saga. This season introduced us to Jolyne Cujoh, who is the daughter of Jotaro Kujo, and her adventure in a Florida prison. The series stays true to the franchise's over-the-top action, unique art style, and memorable characters. Stone Ocean takes the series into bold new territory with complex plots and bizarre Stand battles. If you're a fan of JoJo's Bizarre Adventure, you know you're in for a wild ride. But even if you're new to the series, this is a great place to start, as long as you're ready for the weird and wonderful. Stone Ocean is a visual feast, the animation is incredible, the story is compelling, and the characters are instantly likable. With its blend of action, adventure, and supernatural elements, it's a must-watch for any anime fan.

3. Vampire in the Garden

Vampire in the Garden offered a more somber and introspective experience. This series explores the relationship between a human girl and a vampire queen in a world ravaged by war. The animation quality is outstanding, and the story explores themes of friendship, loss, and the desire for peace. Vampire in the Garden will definitely pull at your heartstrings with its themes of friendship and love. It's a visually stunning and emotionally powerful show that's perfect for those who enjoy character-driven stories with a touch of the supernatural. The series uses its stunning visuals and compelling narrative to explore the complexities of war and the enduring power of friendship. It's a poignant and thought-provoking experience that will stay with you long after the credits roll.

4. Exception

Exception is a sci-fi horror anime that explores the story of a team of space explorers attempting to terraform a planet. Created using CG animation, it has some of the most stunning visuals in the entire Netflix anime catalog, with scenes that are reminiscent of classic sci-fi movies, but the story is its true strength. The narrative is engaging and full of unexpected twists and turns. The animation is a visual feast, with detailed environments and terrifying creatures. The characters are well-developed, and their struggles feel authentic. It's a must-watch for fans of sci-fi and horror, offering a unique and memorable viewing experience. Exception is a chilling exploration of what it means to be human in the face of the unknown.

The Supporting Cast: Other Notable 2022 Releases

While the series above were major hits, several other Netflix Anime Originals also made waves in 2022. Here are a few honorable mentions:

Thermae Romae Novae: A comedy about a Roman bath architect transported to modern-day Japan. This one is lighthearted fun.
Bubble: A visually stunning anime film with a unique setting and a love story at its core.
Kotaro Lives Alone: A heartwarming series about a young boy living alone and trying to navigate life. Prepare for feels.

Animation Studios: The Creative Powerhouses Behind the Anime

Behind every great anime is a team of talented animators, writers, and directors. In 2022, several animation studios were responsible for the creation of these Netflix Anime Originals. Here are a few that deserve special recognition.

Studio Trigger

Known for its high-energy action and unique art style, Studio Trigger delivered some of the most visually stunning anime in 2022. They are the masterminds behind Cyberpunk: Edgerunners, demonstrating their ability to create engaging stories with striking visuals.

David Production

David Production is the studio that brought us JoJo's Bizarre Adventure: Stone Ocean. They are known for their ability to bring manga to life, preserving the style while adding their distinctive touch. They always deliver with their unique art style, action sequences, and engaging characters.

Wit Studio

Wit Studio has a reputation for high-quality animation and storytelling. Vampire in the Garden is a testament to their skill in producing emotionally resonant and visually impressive series.

Challenges and Criticisms of Netflix Anime

It's not all sunshine and rainbows, though. While Netflix's anime strategy has been largely successful, there have been some criticisms.

Production Delays and Release Schedules

Some fans have voiced frustration over production delays and inconsistent release schedules. Anime production is a complex process, and delays are common, but they can still be disappointing.

Localization Issues

Another frequent criticism is regarding localization. While Netflix aims to provide multiple language options, some fans feel that the translations and dubbing quality haven't always been up to par.

Censorship

Censorship is another key issue that concerns the anime community. Some viewers have noticed that Netflix sometimes censors certain scenes or content, which can be frustrating.

The Future of Netflix Anime: What to Expect

So, what's next for Netflix Anime? Here are a few things to keep an eye on.

Strategic Partnerships

Netflix will likely continue to partner with established and up-and-coming animation studios to bring new titles to the platform.

Global Expansion

With anime's growing global popularity, Netflix will continue to focus on expanding its reach and localization efforts.

Conclusion: 2022 - A Landmark Year for Netflix Anime

2022 was a landmark year for Netflix Anime. The platform has firmly established itself as a major player in the industry, offering a wide range of original content and expanding the reach of anime to a global audience. While there are still challenges to be addressed, the overall trend is positive. Netflix's commitment to anime is evident, and fans can look forward to even more exciting releases in the years to come. So, keep your eyes peeled for new shows, and happy watching, anime lovers!