Steampunk initially emerged in literature but has since grown into a distinct culture, spanning from art to music. It imagines an alternate history starting from the 19th century and Victorian era, retaining the styles and aesthetics of that time period. Each participant in this movement, known as “vaporists”, adds their unique perspective to it.
In these settings, materials like copper, brass, wood, and leather are prevalent, and there’s an emphasis on exploration and innovation in a world that remains largely unexplored and undeveloped. This atmosphere mirrors the initial industrial revolution and is fueled by the fresh, potent energy sources of coal and steam. As a result, steam engines are extensively used. Steampunk environments frequently appear in anime productions too, and this piece will introduce you to 25 outstanding steampunk anime series and films that are worth watching.
1. Howl’s Moving Castle
Original Release: September 5, 2004
Running Time: 119 minutes
A teenage girl named Sophie, who’s working at her deceased father’s shop, unintentionally encounters a puzzling sorcerer called Hauru while fleeing. Touched by the situation, Hauru subsequently offers his assistance to her.
Yet, the woman from Landes, smitten with Hauru, grows envious of the affection Sophie receives. To seek retribution, she resorts to turning Sophie into an elderly woman, ninety years old. Unwilling to disclose this metamorphosis to her kin, she secludes herself within her dwelling and eventually departs.
In the mountains, she encounters a magical scarecrow who becomes her dear friend, which she endearingly nicknames Turnip. This encounter then guides her to the dwelling of Howl’s Mobile Castle. Upon entering and noticing its unhealthy condition, she crosses paths with the fire demon named Calcifer.
He shifts the castle, believing Sophie might be under a curse. He proposes to lift the curse, but on condition that she assists him as well, so they can shatter the bond between him and Hauru.
2. Castle in the Sky
Original Release: August 2, 1986
Running Time: 124 minutes
A group of airborne outlaws known as the “Dora Band” assault a floating stronghold in search of a magical orb, which belongs to a captive young girl named Sheeta. Sheeta somehow manages to flee and lands near Pazu, another boy her age. The pair uncover a shared interest: an elusive skyborne island called Laputa, which has been the subject of legend. Pazu’s father once claimed to have seen it personally, but his testimony was dismissed as folly; he eventually passed away from sorrow. However, Sheeta possesses this mystical orb that serves as a compass to reach the legendary island.
Chased by pirates and Muska, a secret service agent backed by an army fleet, the two children work together to reach their destination first. Muska intends to exploit the young girl for his ambition to rule these territories.
The pirates and Muska, aided by the military fleet, are hot on the heels of the two kids. They need to outrun them to get there first. Muska has plans to leverage the young girl for his aspiration to dominate these lands.
And one more:
In pursuit by both pirates and Muska, a secret agent with an army’s backing, the children must team up to arrive at their destination before they do. Muska aims to exploit the young girl for his goal of seizing control over these territories.
3. Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood
Original Run: April 5, 2009 – July 4, 2010
Number of Episodes: 64 (+ 4 OVA)
As a devoted cinephile, I find myself immersed in the captivating world of Amestris, a land where alchemy is not just a craft, but a respected and revered universal science. Born from this realm are brothers Edward and Alphonse Elric, who embark on a nationwide journey in pursuit of the mythical philosopher’s stone. Their father abandoned them, leaving behind their beloved mother, Trisha Elric, who succumbed to an illness a few years later, leaving her young boys orphaned.
At some point, the two brothers attempt to resurrect her using alchemy despite it being against the law, specifically forbidding human transmutation. This disregard for the law comes at a great cost; Edward, the eldest, loses his left leg, while their younger brother suffers a far greater fate and loses his entire body. To save Alphonse’s soul, Edward sacrifices his right arm by enchanting armor to house his little brother’s spirit.
As a die-hard movie fan, I’d say: At the tender age of 12, I sign up for military duty as a State Alchemist. With my exceptional skills, I ace the exam and earn the title Fullmetal. Accompanied by my brothers, we embark on a perilous journey to find the stone that could restore what was taken from us, but the whereabouts of the Philosopher’s Stone remain shrouded in mystery.
4. Kabaneri of the Iron Fortress
Original Release: April 8, 2016 – June 30, 2016
Number of Episodes: 12
During the Industrial Era, a perplexing pandemic swept across the globe and eventually reached the distant lands of the independent island of Hinomoto. Those afflicted by this disease or bitten by other infected individuals underwent a terrifying transformation into Kabane – powerful, bloodthirsty undead entities that are incredibly hard to eliminate.
In fact, the core of the Kabane is shielded by a unique layer of steel that makes common weapons such as bladed weapons and steam rifles ineffective against it.
5. Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind
Original Release: March 11, 1984
Running Time: 117 minutes
It’s been a millennium since the collapse of industrial society following the “Seven Days of Fire,” a cataclysmic interplanetary conflict. Now, humans cling to existence in scattered sanctuaries that are under siege by the fukai, an immense forest whose toxic spores are lethal to most life forms.
In this dense forest, colossal insects reign supreme, having evolved to thrive here. The “ômus” are its dominant species, characterized by their immense size and heightened sensitivity. On the other hand, the Valley of the Wind is a petite agricultural realm, safeguarded from spores and fukai by the constant breezes blowing in from the sea.
His tranquility is disrupted due to the tragic sinking of a massive ship belonging to the Tolmec Empire, which encountered trouble during a stop in a toxic forest where it was attacked by insects. In an attempt to retrieve the cargo from this shipwrecked vessel, Tolmec soldiers stormed the valley. This led to the death of the old King Jill and the capture of his daughter Nausicaä.
The serenity of a man is shattered by the sinking of a colossal Tolmec Empire ship that was infested with insects during a fateful stop in a poisonous forest. To recover the freight from this sunken vessel, Tolmec troops invaded the valley and, as a result, killed the old King Jill and took his daughter Nausicaä captive.
6. Metropolis
Original Release: May 26, 2001
Running Time: 113 minutes
As I found myself immersed in the vibrant world of Metropolis, a city where humans and robots share the same space albeit segregated, I couldn’t help but be drawn into its noir-like allure. The air was thick with the pulsating rhythm of jazz, setting the stage for a gripping police investigation. At the helm were a seasoned Japanese inspector and his precocious nephew, Kenichi, as they delved into the dark underbelly of this seemingly utopian metropolis.
Their target: Doctor Laughton, a brilliant scientist accused of engaging in an unspeakable crime – organ trafficking. With the city’s most powerful figure as his patron, the stakes were high, and the tension palpable. The investigation promised to unravel a web of secrets, power, and corruption that threatened to shatter this futuristic haven.
In this scenario, a scientist employs his expertise to develop an advanced robot that resembles his deceased daughter, Tima. This robot is crucial for a hidden weapon system known as the Ziggurat, which shares similarities with the ancient Tower of Babel in both design and ambition – it aims to surpass divine power.
After the murder of Dr. Laughton, Tima wanders aimlessly in the vast city for a while and encounters Kenichi. Together they face numerous perils, but the painful separation from Kenichi is inevitable as Tima moves forward to fulfill her destiny, which involves dominating humanity. Kenichi is determined to prevent Tima from transforming into a heartless, destructive robot bent on annihilating humankind.
7. Steamboy
Original Release: July 17, 2004
Running Time: 126 minutes
In an imagined timeline, England during the 19th century presents a unique story where young Ray Steam is the offspring of Edward and grandchild of Lloyd, both pioneering inventors of steam engines. These inventors have been absent for quite some time following their journey to America. One day, a mysterious package containing a metallic orb (referred to as the “steamball”) arrives at the residence of Ray and his mother. However, two representatives from the O’Hara Foundation, who support the research of these men, aim to lay their hands on this intriguing artifact.
Ray escapes and gets saved by enthusiastic patriot, Stevenson. Concurrently, London prepares for the unveiling of the World’s Fair, with steam engines being a major attraction. The O’Hara Foundation constructs a pavilion and dispatches its founder’s daughter, Scarlett (a young woman), to manage it. Simon, who is responsible for selling the foundation’s innovations, accompanies her.
8. Future Boy Conan
Original Run: April 4, 1978 – October 31, 1978
Number of Episodes: 26
2008, humanity faced annihilation as Earth was ravaged by the devastating consequences of a Third World War, primarily due to advanced technology, namely colossal aircraft. The planet’s crust was shattered, its rotational axis shifted, and most continents were swallowed by the oceans. Born on an isolated island years later, Conan is left with only his grandfather as other members of their colony perish over time. By the time he turns ten, he is the last survivor.
One day, twenty years post-war, he stumbles upon a young girl deserted on a shoreline. To his surprise, she’s none other than Lana, granddaughter of Professor Raoh, hailing from the serene and secluded island of Edenia – a sanctuary erected by war survivors. However, this innocent child is being chased by Lepka, an underling of Industria, who is determined to coerce Professor Raoh into disclosing his secrets about sustainable solar energy at any expense.
Under any circumstances, she should keep it hidden, for if most of Industria’s inhabitants wish to employ it solely for survival, Lepka – nearly at the helm of Industria – aspires to utilize it for airplane flight and resuming war with the aim of world domination… With his extraordinary strength, Conan will need to exert every effort to oppose Industria, so as to establish a future filled with happiness.
9. Fullmetal Alchemist
Original Run: October 4, 2003 – October 2, 2004
Number of Episodes: 51
The Elric siblings, Edward and Alphonse, had mastered the art of alchemy, a skill passed down from their father who abandoned them and never came home. After their mother’s passing, they attempted to use alchemy to bring her back to life, disregarding the rule against human transmutation. Their attempt was unsuccessful, leading to severe consequences for both brothers.
In this rephrased version:
Al vanishes, while Ed loses his leg, but manages to rescue his brother who has lost his physical body. He does this by embedding his spirit within a suit of medieval armor, using a transmutation circle he draws with his own blood, though at the cost of losing an arm. Later, Ed equips mechanical metal limbs, either referred to as mecagrafts or automails. After passing an exam, Ed becomes a State Alchemist, enabling him to journey far and seek the Philosopher’s Stone, in hopes of finding their bodies for himself and his brother.
10. SAMURAI 7
Original Run: June 12, 2004 – December 25, 2004
Number of Episodes: 26
In a peaceful, rice-farming hamlet named Kanna, there arrives an annual threat: colossal mechanical beings known as Nobuseri, who swoop in during harvest season and virtually empty the village of its rice crop. Over the years, these robots have grown increasingly greedy, now seizing not just the rice but also the women and children. The wise elder of Kanna proposes that the village should engage samurai to defend them, yet they find themselves short on funds. Thus, the quest begins for warriors willing to accept as much rice as they can consume, in exchange for their protection. And so, the journey commences with three brave villagers dispatched to town to initiate this search.
11. Princess Principal
Original run: July 9, 2017 – September 24, 2017
Number of episodes: 12
In a fictional version of Britain named Albion, during the late 19th century, the kingdom controlled a unique substance known as Cavorite, using it to construct an unrivaled air fleet and establish global dominance. However, the uprising of the Albion working class against their neglect by the ruling class ignited what became known as the “London Revolution”. This revolution aimed at dethroning the royal family.
Over time, both parties find themselves at an impasse and construct a massive barrier down the heart of London, splitting Albion into two realms: the Republic and the Kingdom; West and East. In due course, the Republic initiates “Operation Changeling”, with the objective to swap Princess Charlotte from the Kingdom with Ange, who closely resembles her, thereby infiltrating the royal family as a secret agent.
In this tale, the princess learns about the impending operation. To avoid discovery by the entire kingdom, the spies consent to collaborate. The princess proposes an alliance with the Republic, and the story unfolds as she, along with Ange and her companions, infiltrate the Kingdom disguised as students at the Queen’s Mayfair School within the prestigious Republic.
12. LOST SONG
Original run: March 31, 2018 – June 16, 2018
Number of episodes: 12
Option A: In simple terms, Rin resides in a rural area with her grandfather, two half-brothers named Mei and Al, and she’s eager to aid others. Her aspiration lies in performing with the Royal Orchestra in the grand city capital of the kingdom. Meanwhile, Finis, a singer from the capital, is unwillingly compelled to assist the wicked prince in his war campaigns against neighboring territories.
In a nutshell, both Rin and she have the ability to control the four elements through their melodies; Rin frequently employs a soothing tune for healing purposes, assisting those in distress, whereas Finis utilizes it to mend soldiers injured during combat. However, Finis also wields other potent songs to annihilate enemy armies. Following the brutal destruction of her village by General Bazra Beamols and the subsequent demise of her grandfather and half-sister Mel, Rin departs for the capital accompanied by her half-brother Al.
During their journey, the minstrel known as Pony Goodlight and sisters named Monica encounter Alyu Lux. However, as they approach the capital following various escapades, the singer called Finis, grief-stricken over the loss of her beloved Henry Leobolt, starts to perform a song that brings about a catastrophic meteor shower. This destruction wipes out the entire region and claims the lives of all its inhabitants.
Starting from this immense devastation, surprisingly, only Finis – now made immortal – survives. Throughout the ages she journeys, amassing vast knowledge, until she arrives at an era dominated by technology. Regrettably, this advanced world is destroyed by an atomic war. At that juncture, human history begins anew and the immortal Finis recognizes a cyclical pattern in all events.
In my endless pursuit of a forgotten affection, I repeatedly retrace the ebb and flow of human history, only to find myself at a loss. However, one day, in a moment of despair, I decide to bring an end to this world as we know it, unleashing a cataclysmic melody of devastation.
13. Nadia: The Secret of Blue Water
Original run: April 13, 1990 – April 12, 1991
Number of episodes: 39
1889 World’s Fair in Paris: That’s where I crossed paths with Jean, an ingenious inventor, and Nadia, a daring acrobat who was being chased by ruthless thieves seeking the enigmatic blue gem she wore around her neck. We found ourselves in a race to escape to Africa onboard Jean’s innovative aircraft, as Nadia yearned to unravel the secrets of her past there. Unfortunately, our journey took an unexpected turn when we ended up shipwrecked in the vast expanse of the Atlantic Ocean.
After some underwater escapades aboard the submarine Nautilus, they find themselves on an island ruled by conquerors who have enslaved its inhabitants. Nadia and many others are jailed by Argon, the ruler of these tyrants, who appears to covet the blue stone that Nadia had given to Jean. He manipulates Jean by using a despicable form of blackmail, leading him into a trap. The circumstances seem dire, but ultimately everyone is saved by Captain Nemo of the Nautilus.
14. La vuelta al mundo de Willy Fog
Original run: August 1, 1983 – August 26, 1983
Number of episodes: 26
The well-mannered and composed Londoner named Willy Fog accepts a challenge from certain Reform Club associates, who were casually enjoying billiards at the time. The bet? To circle the globe in just eighty days, adhering to a precise schedule. If successful, he would win an impressive £20,000 against his fellow gamblers, with the exception of the elderly and timid Lord Guinness – the only one willing to place trust in him, despite his confinement to a wheelchair.
In a turn of events, the wolf named Sullivan, who is part of the club and holds the position of Governor at the Bank of England, sets up a conflict by putting the cunning, disguise-specialist gray fox, known as Transfer, against him for the purpose of causing damage. Meanwhile, on his journey, Phileas Fogg, accompanied by the French butler, the cat Rigodon, and his companion, Tico the dormouse, finds himself pursued by Transfer, along with two detectives from Scotland Yard – the hound Dix and the bulldog Bully. These officers suspect Fogg for the theft of a staggering 55,000 pounds from the Bank of England the day prior.
15. Levius
Original Run: November 28, 2019
Number of Episodes: 12
Set within an alternate timeline spanning the early 20th and 21st centuries, Levius unfolds in a world where technology has developed differently from ours, primarily relying on steam power instead of electricity and electronics. This setting gives rise to what we call a steampunk universe. The primary sport in this realm is mechanical boxing, and through the replacement or enhancement of specific body parts, fighters can achieve extraordinary strength.
In a past era, Europe was engulfed by a devastating war that left countless lives shattered. Amidst the tumultuous times of boxing and war, we are introduced to Levius, a man who lost an arm in the war. He competes in the second-tier league of mechanical boxing. During his bouts, he crosses paths with A.J., a phenomenal boxer who had previously defeated the champion of the upper tier, a hero admired by Levius.
To seek vengeance for his friend, this individual must engage in a battle with A.J and uncover why the young girl seems to follow the commands of a morally questionable organization known as “AMETHYSTE.
16. Last Exile
Original Run: November 28, 2019
Number of Episodes: 12
In the realm of Prester, resembling our 19th century but boasting advanced technology, Claus Valca and Lavie Head were orphaned children. Their upbringing propelled them to follow in the footsteps of their fathers, pilots of a dual-seat aircraft known as Vanship. They joined the community of air messengers, delivering messages across the skies, and even competed in high-speed air races.
Unintentionally, they find themselves thrust into an extremely challenging mission leading them to the ominous ship (Silverna) amidst the fierce conflict between nations Dithis and Anatoray. This encounter sets a new course for their lives and brings their ambition within grasp: navigating the “Grand Courant,” a remarkable perpetual tornado rumored to have carried off their fathers. However, achieving this feat will require them to confront the Guild, an institution believed to maintain order in wars as per the treaty.
17. The Empire of Corpses
Original Release: October 2, 2015
Running Time: 126 minutes
The story unfolds during the era of the industrial revolution. A genius scientist named Frankenstein creates the first “The Creature”, a sentient being constructed from body parts of the deceased. This invention, known as a necromate, quickly becomes a significant asset for nations due to their tireless and obedient nature. They are utilized in both military and civilian settings. John H. Watson, a gifted young necromancer, employs the body of his loyal companion Friday to build an unauthorized necromate. Subsequently exposed, he finds himself compelled to locate a secret newspaper that stirs greed.
18. The Case Study of Vanitas
Original Run: July 3, 2021 – April 2, 2022
Number of Episodes: 24
In the late 1800s, Paris is plagued by frequent vampire attacks, yet their general rule is to avoid harming humans. A sinister force appears to be corrupting these eternal beings. Amidst this chaotic era, a newcomer named Noah enters the city. Born as a bloodsucker, he embarks on a path guided by the Vanitas grimoire, an ancient artifact that instills terror in all vampires.
It is believed that possessing it grants one the power to meddle with what they hold dearest – their true name, a representation of their existence. Altering it can cause madness or destruction. On this colossal sea-faring craft, Noah encounters Amelia. As he nurses her back to health due to an illness, events escalate dramatically: she becomes mentally unstable and unveils her vampire identity to the passengers!
It’s then that an enigmatic figure appears, introducing himself as Vanitas! Before a stunned Noah, he extracts the renowned grimoire and calms the agitated woman’s frenzy. Thus, it seems this artifact isn’t only a lethal tool?
19. Tegami Bachi
Original run: October 3, 2009 – March 26, 2011
Number of episodes: 50 + 25 OVA
The narrative unfolds in Ambergound, a locale shrouded in eternal night and partially illuminated by an artificial sun. In this setting, Lag Seeing serves as a messenger, or “Bee,” for the “Beehive” or “Post Hive,” which is essentially the Amberground Postal Services. This occupation comes with its fair share of perils, as the roads are teeming with “insectarmor,” colossal insects that can be vanquished only by unique weapons whose ammunition are pieces from the user’s heart. Lag’s duties are facilitated by his trusted companion, Niche, who functions as both partner and bodyguard in this hazardous endeavor.
20. Fullmetal Alchemist the Movie: Conqueror of Shamballa
Original Release: July 23, 2005
Running Time: 105 minutes
In their unique situation, the Elric brothers wind up in distinct realms, split apart by what’s called “the door.” Edward lands in a realm characterized by technology as an alternative to alchemy, which seems to mirror our own world and includes references to Hitler’s unsuccessful coup d’état in 1923. Meanwhile, Alphonse remains in the world where they originated, a realm dominated by alchemy.
Through their connection to a secret society known as the Thule Society, who were close to the Führer, the two brothers have managed to make contact with each other. Eagerly, they will do everything possible to meet again. However, the allure of alchemy is strong, and Edward isn’t the only one yearning to pass through “the door.
This episode is strongly connected to Germany during its interwar era, and it’s filled with many accurate historical references, some of which are familiar faces from that time.
In this rephrased version, Hitler and Fritz Lang fulfill their respective roles, along with Karl Haushofer, a Munich geopolitical scholar whose ideas were adopted by Nazism. Meanwhile, Dietrich Eckart, one of the German Workers’ Party’s founders, is analogously represented as Dietlinde Eckart in the female equivalent.
21. Strait Jacket
Original run: November 26, 2007 – April 28, 2008
Number of episodes: 3 (OVA)
In the novel “Strait Jacket“, magic is established as a fact in an alternate timeline dating back to 1899. Since its revelation, it has become the cornerstone of technology, influencing every aspect of society. The narrative unfolds within Tristan, a bustling cityscape that bears resemblance to a blend of Tokyo, San Francisco, and Victorian-era London from the turn of the century.
In current times, technology relies on steam power. While Dr. George Greco has shown the potential of magic, it’s only accessible to a select few gifted individuals. However, its usage is fraught with peril and illegality. Due to an unseen pollutant called “malediction” or simply “curse”, frequent users risk transforming into dreadful, unsavory beings known as “demons”.
The Enchanted Governance Agency, often referred to as the Sorcery Supervision Department, was established with the purpose of ensuring safe examination of magical properties, controlling its application, and apprehending individuals who misuse it unlawfully. Given magic’s widespread use in sectors such as government, business, agriculture, healthcare, and defense, this department holds considerable authority.
22. Baccano!
Original Run: July 26, 2007 – November 1, 2007
Number of Episodes: 16
In the late 1920s, Chicago was the starting point for the iconic train, “Flying Pussyfoot,” which embarked on an unforgettable voyage that would paint a path of violence across the nation.
Simultaneously in New York, the eager scientist Szilard Quates and his reluctant aide Ennis pursue the vanished vials of the elixir of eternal life. Meanwhile, the conflict between criminal factions intensifies. Onboard the Advena Avis in 1711, alchemists are on the brink of discovering the cost of immortality.
23. Trigun
Original Run: April 1, 1998 – September 30, 1998
Number of Episodes: 26
In a far-off time, humanity has depleted Earth’s natural resources and is compelled to move to a harsh, arid world bathed in the light of two stars.
The setting for this series is reminiscent of the Old West, where characters live and interact. Ruins of advanced technology serve as reminders of a past era, starkly contrasting with the simple lifestyle of the inhabitants. As new discoveries are made, a name linked to the devastation of July, once a bustling metropolis of over a million people, sends shivers down everyone’s spines.
It hails from Vash the Stampede. Often called a “humanoid hurricane” due to the destruction left in its wake, its true identity and purpose remain a mystery to all.
24. Fullmetal Alchemist: The Sacred Star of Milos
Original Release: October 2, 2015
Running Time: 126 minutes
In Central City Prison, there was Melvin, a water transformer, who contrived his breakout and vanished towards the western lands. Subsequently, Edward and Alphonse embarked on a chase. Their journey eventually brought them to the town known as Table City, where they crossed paths with a puzzling young girl. This enigmatic child was seeking the identity of the person responsible for her family’s demise.
25. Willy Fog 2
Original run: September 24, 1994 – January 1995
Number of episodes: 26
Six months following the conclusion of “Around the World with Willy Fog,” Sullivan, Willy Fog’s long-standing adversary, issues another challenge. This time, instead of circling the globe, Willy Fog must uncover an enigmatic route that leads directly to Earth’s core. The clue is hidden within a cryptic document penned by Arne Saknussemm, detailing his own journey to the planet’s innermost depths.
In their undertaking, Willy Fog and his fellow travelers set off on an extraordinary voyage, exploring territories far removed from what is commonly recognized. This thrilling escapade will challenge them with treacherous abysses, narrowly avoiding explosive volcanic outbreaks and encountering formidable dinosaurs within the winding passages of subterranean caverns. Subsequently, they embark on another nautical excursion due to a marine enigma involving sea beast assaults. Eventually, this riddle unravels as the Nautilus submarine, commanded by Nemo, is revealed to be the source of the attacks.
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2025-06-07 04:47