10 Must-See Anime to Enjoy Before Netflix's Cowboy Bebop Premieres

For fans of: mercenaries, action, moral complexity

Much like Cowboy Bebop, Black Lagoon explores moral ambiguity, but it takes it a step further. The series follows a group of mercenary pirates involved in illicit activities like drug smuggling, gunrunning, and human trafficking. The story begins with Rokurou Okajima, a mundane Japanese businessman who is accidentally kidnapped by the Lagoon Company. Instead of being rescued, Rock is abandoned by his employer, who declares him dead to avoid complications. Surprisingly, he finds more respect and freedom among his captors than he ever did in his corporate life. Choosing to stay with the pirates, Rock navigates a world of crime while grappling with his own values and discovering a twisted sense of honor.

This series offers a sharp critique of corporate capitalism, particularly in the context of modern Japan, but its themes resonate universally. Rock’s transformation into a criminal is both action-packed and thought-provoking, delving into questions about freedom, morality, and the cost of living authentically.

Where to stream: Hulu, Funimation

For fans of: space opera, misfit crews

Outlaw Star features a ragtag group of adventurers, much like Cowboy Bebop, and its space western vibe makes it feel like a precursor to the more famous series. The show’s '90s-era storytelling and animation (think spiky hair and bold designs) might appeal to those nostalgic for the decade, but it also offers a unique mix of magic and space opera. The series was designed by Yutaka Minowa, a legendary figure from Madhouse who also contributed to Record of Lodoss War and Ninja Scroll, ensuring a visually striking experience.

The story follows Gene Starwind, a laborer and part-time outlaw, and his partner as they team up with space pirates and stumble upon an experimental ship they name Outlaw Star. Set in the “Towards Stars” era, the series pits pirates against legitimate vessels using grappling arms, with the Outlaw Star being the most advanced ship designed to locate the Galactic Leyline, a fabled treasure trove. The show’s influence on Cowboy Bebop is evident, and it also shares similarities with Firefly, featuring characters and plot points that will feel familiar to fans of Joss Whedon’s work.

If you first encountered this series on Toonami, it’s worth revisiting on Hulu, as the original broadcast was heavily edited for content. The streaming version offers the complete, uncut experience.

Where to stream: Hulu

For fans of: westerns

While Gun x Sword doesn’t blend as many genres as Cowboy Bebop, it excels as a standout entry in the space western category. The protagonist, Van, shares traits with Spike Spiegel but embodies a more stoic and vengeance-driven archetype. His sole mission is to avenge his fiancée’s death at the hands of the claw-armed man, a quest that leads him to the besieged town of Evergreen.

Initially indifferent to the town’s plight, Van becomes involved when he discovers a connection between the bandits and his target. Along the way, he crosses paths with a young girl searching for her kidnapped brother, further entangling him in the town’s struggles. The series embraces classic western tropes, delivering a tale of revenge, reluctant heroism, and giant robots with remarkable style and polish.

Where to stream: Hulu, Funimation

For fans of: Shinichirō Watanabe

Samurai Champloo stands out as one of the most uniquely structured anime series, making it challenging to summarize without delving into lengthy descriptions. Set in early Edo-era Japan (around the 17th century), the series lacks a central plot until its final episodes, functioning more like an anthology until then. While it references historical events, it’s far from a history lesson, blending anachronistic, hip-hop-inspired elements with modern touches like cars and subways. The title’s “champloo” roughly translates to “improvised,” reflecting the show’s eclectic and experimental nature.

The story begins with the execution of two samurai, Mugen and Jin, before flashing back to the events leading up to it. Fuu, a waitress, is harassed by the son of a local official, prompting Mugen, a brash mercenary, and Jin, a stoic and honorable samurai, to intervene. Despite their clashing personalities and moral flaws, the trio embarks on a journey across Japan in search of the enigmatic Sunflower Samurai. Their adventures are tied together by fate, with the overarching narrative only becoming clear as the series progresses. Directed by Shinichirō Watanabe, this follow-up to Cowboy Bebop retains its predecessor’s episodic storytelling style while weaving subtle overarching themes.

Where to stream: Hulu, Funimation

For fans of: noir, cyberpunk

This series is decidedly not for younger audiences but is a must-watch for noir enthusiasts. Set in 22nd-century Japan, it features a sleek Blade Runner-inspired aesthetic and a premise reminiscent of Minority Report. In this world, technology can predict criminal intent, allowing authorities to stop crimes before they happen. Those deemed potential threats are either rehabilitated or executed, depending on their perceived danger. This system, known as Sibyl, also dictates career paths and relationships, raising questions about its infallibility.

The story follows a new Enforcer whose miscalculation leads to deadly consequences, as well as a criminal mastermind who remains undetected by Sibyl despite his escalating crimes. Darker and more violent than Cowboy Bebop, this series delivers a gripping cyberpunk narrative that explores themes of free will, justice, and societal control.

Where to stream: Hulu, Funimation, Prime Video, Tubi

For fans of: music, science fiction

Directed by Shinichirō Watanabe, Carole & Tuesday shares thematic similarities with Cowboy Bebop, particularly its focus on music and its retro-futuristic setting. The story follows Carole, a keyboardist in Alba City on Mars, and Tuesday, a runaway from a wealthy family, as they pursue their dreams in a world dominated by AI-generated music. In this future, algorithms dictate artistic trends, leaving little room for organic creativity. Despite the odds, the duo strives to make their mark in a world where authenticity is rare.

Watanabe’s signature style shines through in this series, blending heartfelt storytelling with a vibrant soundtrack and a nostalgic yet futuristic aesthetic.

Where to stream: Netflix

For fans of: noir, comedy, misfit teams

While Cowboy Bebop incorporates humor, Bungo Stray Dogs takes comedy to another level, all while maintaining a noir-inspired aesthetic. The series blends genres and adopts an episodic structure similar to Bebop, making it highly rewatchable.

The story centers on Atsushi Nakajima, who is kicked out of his orphanage and soon rescues a drowning detective. During this encounter, Atsushi discovers his supernatural ability, “Beast Beneath the Moonlight,” which allows him to transform into a massive white tiger. He joins the detective’s agency, where he meets other individuals with extraordinary powers. The series highlights different members of the team across its episodes, which can be enjoyed out of order. With three seasons and a movie (available on Prime Video), the franchise also includes a spinoff, Bungo Stray Dogs Wan!, though it hasn’t yet reached international audiences.

Where to stream: HBO Max, Crunchyroll, VRV

For fans of: fast-paced action, space opera

This 12-episode series is a compact, action-packed adventure with minimal filler, making it an ideal quick watch. Coyote Ragtime Show delivers a self-contained story that doesn’t require a long-term commitment.

The plot follows “Mister,” a notorious criminal, who is broken out of prison by his allies just before his release date. Simultaneously, a powerful crime syndicate attacks the prison to capture him. Mister teams up with Franca, who is fighting to claim her father’s hidden fortune of ten billion dollars on the planet Graceland. Pursued by both law enforcement and rival criminals, the group embarks on a high-stakes mission filled with action, humor, and a touch of absurdity. Mister’s signature catchphrase, “Let’s get this party started!” sets the tone for this lively and entertaining series, which channels the energetic vibe of Cowboy Bebop.

Where to stream: Funimation

For fans of: space opera, comedy, mercenaries

If you’re searching for a series with a space bounty hunter leading a quirky crew through standalone adventures, all set to a jazzy soundtrack, this is the perfect follow-up to Cowboy Bebop. Directed by Shinichirō Watanabe, who aimed to recapture the magic of his earlier hit, this show didn’t achieve the same success initially but remains a delightful watch.

The story follows Dandy, the stylish captain of the Aloha Oe, as he hunts rare aliens with his crew, including the adorable robot QT and the humanoid cat Meow. Their escapades involve recurring foes, new allies, and a mix of humor and action, all while maintaining a cool, carefree vibe.

Where to stream: Hulu, Funimation, Tubi

For fans of: westerns, Han Solo

Often compared to Cowboy Bebop due to its western influences, Trigun is sometimes mistakenly seen as a derivative work. However, both series premiered in Japan around the same time, with Trigun’s manga predating Bebop by two years. The similarities stem from their shared love for western tropes rather than imitation.

Vash the Stampede, the protagonist, is a hunted outlaw with a mysterious past. Despite his reputation as a destructive force, he values life deeply, often clashing with bounty hunters who cause more harm than he does. Accompanied by two insurance agents, Vash navigates a series of misadventures on the planet Gunsmoke, culminating in a dramatic finale. The series is a quintessential '90s shōnen anime, featuring stylish gunfights and a compelling narrative.

Where to stream: Hulu, Funimation