From gritty sci-fi adventures to emotionally charged character dramas, CG anime has evolved into a subgenre that deserves much more love. For years, anime fans have debated the quality and authenticity of computer-generated animation in anime. Traditional 2D animation has always been the gold standard, but over time, studios have experimented with CG Anime to push visual boundaries. Today, some of the best CG anime break past the awkward early phases and deliver incredible storytelling with unique art styles.
If you’re still hesitant to try out this format, this list of the top 10 best CG anime you should be watching might change your mind completely.
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10. High Score Girl
Studio: J.C.Staff
Genre: Romance, Comedy, Gaming
Released: 2018
Set during the 1990s arcade boom in Japan, High Score Girl is a nostalgic love letter to retro gaming and young romance. Haruo Yaguchi, a die-hard gamer with little interest in anything else, meets his match in Akira Oono, a quiet and mysterious classmate who also happens to be a gaming prodigy. What starts as an arcade rivalry slowly blooms into a complex and heartfelt relationship.
Despite its unconventional CG style, the show works surprisingly well. The animation brings out the exaggerated expressions and action-packed gaming segments in a way that traditional animation might not. Its emotional beats and detailed references to gaming culture make it one of the best CG anime if you’re into slice-of-life romance with a pixelated twist.
9. Expelled from Paradise
Studio: Toei Animation
Genre: Sci-Fi, Action
Released: 2014
In a futuristic society where humans live digitally, Angela Balzac is a system security officer sent from space to the ruined Earth to hunt a hacker. Partnering with the grounded Dingo, she discovers the forgotten meaning of humanity, survival, and freedom.
The film showcases what CG anime can accomplish when handled with finesse. Its fluid fight choreography, facial animations, and intricate backgrounds offer a cinematic experience. While some scenes may still feel different compared to traditional animation, Expelled from Paradise stands out for marrying strong visuals with philosophical questions and fast-paced action.
8. Lupin III: The First
Studio: TMS Entertainment, Marza Animation Planet
Genre: Action, Adventure
Released: 2019
This modern adaptation of the beloved Lupin III franchise dives into fully CG territory while keeping the spirit of the original alive. Lupin, the charming thief with a heart of gold, sets out on a mission to uncover the secrets behind the Bresson Diary, an artifact tied to his late grandfather.
Lupin III: The First features stunning CG visuals that maintain the slick, fun energy of the franchise. The action is slick, the humor remains intact, and the animation pays tribute to classic adventure films. It’s one of the best CG anime examples of how to reboot a beloved 2D franchise with respect and creativity.
7. Ajin: Demi-Human
Studio: Polygon Pictures
Genre: Supernatural, Action, Horror
Released: 2016
Ajin: Demi-Human introduces a world where a new race of immortals called Ajin begin to appear, treated as threats and hunted by governments. Kei Nagai, a student, discovers he is one of them and is thrust into a life-or-death chase and rebellion.
The series uses a bold CG approach that initially drew criticism, but as the story unfolds, the animation style proves fitting for this anime’s dark, psychological, and tense atmosphere. Its use of shadow, facial design, and dynamic fight scenes help it rise as one of the most intense and gripping dark psychological anime for those who love supernatural thrillers.
6. Beastars
Studio: Orange
Genre: Drama, Psychological, School
Released: 2019
Set in a world of anthropomorphic animals, Beastars is a character-driven drama that explores themes of identity, repression, and societal structure. Legoshi, a shy and gentle wolf, finds himself struggling with inner conflict after encountering a small rabbit named Haru.
Beastars doesn’t just rely on visual spectacle but uses CG to build emotionally charged character performances and nuanced storytelling. Its theatrical lighting and expressive faces showcase how far CG anime has come in portraying subtle emotions. With its layered writing and unique premise, this show is among the best CG anime when it comes to psychological and emotional depth.
Also check: Best Underrated Anime You Should Be Watching
5. Land of the Lustrous
Studio: Orange
Genre: Fantasy, Drama, Action
Released: 2017
In a world inhabited by gem-like beings, Phosphophyllite (Phos) longs to find a meaningful role in their society. As fragile as they are curious, Phos embarks on a journey of self-discovery and transformation. What follows is a strikingly emotional tale about identity, suffering, and evolution.
Land of the Lustrous is often cited as the turning point where CG anime earned widespread respect. The animation doesn’t feel stiff or uncanny — it’s ethereal, elegant, and deeply artistic. Every frame radiates detail, and the fluid fight scenes complement the show’s reflective tone. If you’re still hesitant about CG in anime, this is the one that might change your mind.
4. Trigun Stampede
Studio: Orange
Genre: Sci-Fi, Western, Action
Released: 2023
A fresh take on the classic Trigun story, this version dives deeper into the past and psychology of Vash the Stampede, the galaxy’s most misunderstood outlaw. With stunning desert landscapes, stylized action, and a newly reimagined narrative, Trigun Stampede gives old fans something new to appreciate while introducing newcomers to its wild, emotional world.
What makes it one of the best CG anime is its daring visual approach. The motion is slick and expressive, combining the exaggerated style of anime with high-end CG dynamics. The emotional moments land just as hard as the explosions, thanks to refined character animation and a powerful musical score.
3. Knights of Sidonia
Studio: Polygon Pictures
Genre: Sci-Fi, Mecha, Space
Released: 2014
Set in a post-Earth future where humanity survives aboard a colossal spaceship, Sidonia, this anime tells the story of Nagate Tanikaze, a pilot defending the remnants of civilization against bizarre alien threats known as Gauna.
Knights of Sidonia delivers large-scale mecha battles and world-building that feels immersive and grim. The CG may feel stiff at first, but it suits the tone of the story and becomes more fluid with time. Its designs are sharp, the stakes are high, and the sense of scale is impressive. As one of the earliest fully CG anime to gain recognition, it deserves a spot among the best.
2. The House of the Lost on the Cape
Studio: David Production
Genre: Supernatural, Slice of Life
Released: 2021
This heartwarming story follows two girls who, after losing their families, are taken in by a mysterious old woman in a remote countryside home that hides more than meets the eye. The film blends quiet rural life with gentle supernatural elements, touching on themes of grief, healing, and connection.
While it isn’t fully CG like others on this list, its use of blended CG animation — particularly in environmental effects and certain spirits — demonstrates how CG can add magic and softness without overwhelming the core storytelling. It’s a beautiful film with a comforting presence, making it a surprising entry in discussions of best CG anime.
1. BLAME!
Studio: Polygon Pictures
Genre: Sci-Fi, Action, Cyberpunk
Released: 2017
In a far-future dystopia where humanity is nearly extinct, a lone wanderer named Killy travels a vast, decaying megastructure in search of the key to restoring civilization. BLAME! is a moody, haunting tale of survival and exploration in a cold, mechanical world.
This film showcases CG animation at its most atmospheric. The massive scale, intricate architecture, and smooth action scenes create an immersive cyberpunk experience. While it leans toward minimal dialogue and exposition, its storytelling is deeply visual. Among the best CG anime ever produced, BLAME! is bold, heavy, and visually stunning.
The evolution of CG anime has been filled with missteps, breakthroughs, and experiments. But today, it stands as an exciting and creative space where studios take risks and innovate in ways traditional 2D animation sometimes cannot. From deeply emotional stories to high-concept science fiction, the best CG anime blend style with substance. Whether you’re a long-time fan or just starting to explore this corner of the anime world, these shows are worth watching — not just for their visuals, but for the bold narratives they bring to life.
You can watch all the anime mentioned in this list on Crunchyroll, Netflix and others.
