Kara Dennison
October 9, 2024 
Netflix is no stranger to the anime distribution game. But the streaming giant’s presence as a purveyor of weekly episodes has only become a thing in recent years—at least outside Japan. Fortunately, fans can now enjoy new anime episodes as they air… some of which are available only on this streaming service.
We’re taking a look at some exclusive Netflix anime titles streaming in 2024. Are they worth the subscription price? Let us help you find out!
Orb: On the Movements of the Earth
While it’s not the most hyped Netflix anime of the season, Orb: On the Movements of the Earth is definitely an interesting offering. Based on the manga by Uoto, the historical series takes place in the “P Kingdom” in the 15th century. It follows a treasure trove of research on the heliocentric universe—the idea that Earth orbits the Sun—through several sets of hands. We start with Rafal, an orphaned child prodigy about to enter college at the age of 12. After a meeting with a man punished for heresy, Rafal decides to pursue astronomy rather than theology.
If you’re not much into medieval history, Orb: On the Movements of the Earth might move a little slowly for you. But fans of historical fiction, astronomy, and science in general may want to give this a look. It could very well be a hidden gem of the season.
Ranma 1/2
One of the biggest Netflix anime offerings of the season, Ranma 1/2 is also one of the most anticipated anime this fall, full stop. After Urusei Yatsura won over a new wave of Rumiko Takahashi fans, old-school otaku are hoping for a repeat with this classic rom-com. And while we’re admittedly only one episode in, things are already looking pretty good.
The return of much of the original cast, interwoven with new talent, is already a major plus. The new series also has the vibes of the original (both the manga and the anime), with little nods to the classic series throughout. And the animation is looking pretty strong, too. If further episodes can stay as strong as the first, it’s a good reason to keep your subscription for now.
Blue Box
The Shonen Jump coming-of-age manga is now a Netflix anime! Blue Box may not have the week-to-week intensity of its manga magazine neighbors, but it’s a much-loved series with a lot of heart and an enchanting, down-to-earth story. The series kicks off with some typical manga/anime antics. Badminton player Taiki crushes hard on basketball star Chinatsu. But he has nothing in common with her except practicing near each other before school. That changes, though, when she moves in with his family to focus on basketball when her parents move abroad.
This should technically make things easier, right? But how can he express his feelings when they share a house? Moreover, Taiki has other admirers, and Chinatsu has even more. This sweet coming-of-age story is set to be a highlight of the season, and it’s only on Netflix.
Two of these shows have something in common – meet the couples we’re most excited about this season!
