Since its establishment in 1987, Production IG has stood out as one of the leading production companies in the anime world. Their breakthrough came in 1995 with the production of Ghost in the Shell, and since then, Production IG has achieved consistent success.
The studio is versatile, working on intense sports anime and more laid-back slice-of-life series. One notable aspect of Production IG is its collaborations with other studios.
A significant partnership was with Gainax for Neon Genesis Evangelion: The End of Evangelion, and they also played a role in creating a branch of Studio Wit, known for its collaboration on Attack on Titan.
However, Production IG’s individual projects are equally noteworthy. Here are the top 10 series created by them, cherished by fans as evidenced by their high ratings on MyAnimeList.
1. Ghost In The Shell: Stand Alone Complex
- Episodes: 26
- Released: Fall 2002
- Genre: Action, Sci-Fi, Military, Police
After the success of Ghost in the Shell in 1995, Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex brings a fresh perspective. However, fans of the original can rest assured.
Standalone Complex maintains the captivating elements of the film’s cyberpunk dystopia, and its series format allows for the development of truly engaging storylines.
As Section 9 endeavors to locate the elusive and hazardous hacker called the Laughing Man, the series unfolds with numerous incidents and twists, making the character one of the most iconic villains in anime.
2. Seirei no Moribito (Moribito: Guardian of the Spirit)
- Episodes: 26
- Released: Spring 2007
- Genres: Action, Adventure, Fantasy, Historical
Do you enjoy fantasy anime but find isekai tales too predictable? Want strong female leads and mysterious worlds? Then check out Moribito: Guardian of the Spirit.
Moribito follows bodyguard Balsa as she crosses magical lands. Her mission: Protect a banished prince at all costs. Dangers arise everywhere they venture, but courageous Balsa fends them off.
Unlike many anime fantasies, Moribito avoids the overdone isekai genre. Instead, it crafts a refreshing and inspiring original story.
And it features a powerful heroine in Balsa – one of anime’s great female role models. She displays fierce strength when facing countless freakish monsters. But also shows heartwarming compassion for her princely ward.
Moribito delivers imagination and heart in spades for anime lovers craving classic fantasy adventure without repetitive isekai retreads. Balsa is a relatable yet uncompromising wanderer that fantasy fans will surely admire.
3. xxxHOLiC
- Episodes: 24
- Released: Spring 2006
- Genre: Comedy, Drama, Mystery, Supernatural, Psychological
Derived from the manga created by the renowned group CLAMP, xxxHolic introduces an aura of sophistication and enigma.
The narrative revolves around Watanuki, a young man who can perceive supernatural entities, and Yuuko, a mysterious woman who professes to fulfill people’s desires.
Known for their highly intricate and distinctive art style, particularly in fashion, CLAMP’s signature is evident throughout xxxHolic. For anime enthusiasts who appreciate an experimental and unique style, xxxHolic is an ideal series.
4. Usagi Drop
- Episodes: 11
- Released: Summer 2011
- Genre: Slice of Life, Josei
Usagi Drop charmingly tells the tale of an average bachelor suddenly becoming a parent. When Daikichi takes in young Rin after his grandfather’s death, their warming bond transcends age.
This poignant series tenderly explores family in trying times. Rin gives Daikichi’s routine new meaning amidst grief. Caring for her unlocks the patient’s father he never knew was within.
Free of convoluted romance or flashy animation spectacle, Usagi Drop finds joy in small moments. The authentic evolving dynamic between unlikely father and daughter builds to a beautiful crescendo.
Fans celebrated the anime taking a different path from its manga origin. By focusing solely on the pair’s early years, it emphasized selfless love over scandal. For a touching portrait of a family flourishing through turmoil, Usagi Drop delivers inspiration and smiles as only the finest slice-of-life series can.
5. Kuroko no Basket
- Episodes: 25
- Released: Spring 2012
- Genre: Comedy, Sports, School, Shounen
Does Kuroko no Basket capture hoop excitement like the beloved classic Slam Dunk? It leaps even higher for many fans through creative plays and nonstop energy.
Kuroko overflows with sports hype across hilarious, triumphant, and heartbreaking scenes.
Each electrifying match builds on the last as Seirin High pushes towards the championship trophy. The ever-escalating rivalries and dazzling teamwork make games thrilling even for non-sports viewers.
With emotional drama between buzzing plays, Kuroko earns its place among the basketball anime greats. It blends comedy, intensity, and motivation in a complete package Oakland A’s fans need to see.
6 Psycho-Pass
- Episodes: 22
Released: Spring 2012
Genre: Action, Sci-Fi, Suspense, Police, Psychological
Psycho-Pass is Production IG’s return to cyberpunk prowess. Like Ghost in the Shell, the series explores what advanced technology might do to human society.
Psycho-Pass is an engaging action thriller. This anime also proves that Gen Urobuchi, who recently had great success with Puella Magi Madoka Magica, is unmatched when crafting dark stories that are anything but good for their characters.
7. Haikyuu!!
- Episodes: 25
- Released: Spring 2014
- Genre: Comedy, Sports, School, Shounen
The narrative of Karasuno’s journey to becoming an outstanding volleyball team stands out as one of the most beloved sports anime in recent times.
Haikyuu!! Successfully blends gripping match sequences with character development. Witnessing Hinata pursue his aspirations is motivating, and each character, even those on rival teams, receives a distinct narrative and background.
Packed with moments that evoke laughter, excitement, and even tears, Haikyuu!! Caters to a wide range of audience emotions.
8. Welcome to the Ballroo
- Episodes: 25
- Released: Spring 2012
- Genre: Comedy, Sports, School, Shounen
Regarding sports, Welcome to the Ballroom is perhaps Production IG’s most unusual offering. Ballroom dancing doesn’t seem to provide the immediate sensations that basketball or volleyball do.
However, Welcome to the Ballroom proves that elegance and fun can go hand in hand. Many viewers feel inspired to take on something they had never considered before.
9. Kaze ga Tsuyoku Fuiteiru (Run With the Wind)
- Episodes: 23
- Released: Fall 2018
- Genre: Comedy, Drama, Sport
Run with the Wind is a sports anime about running. But there’s more to it than that.
In this anime, the characters and their relationship with each other is the most important thing. Their bond growing as a family is as precious as the chance to run Hakone Ekiden.
10. Moriarty The Patriot
- Episodes: 11
- Release: Fall 2020
- Genre: Mystery, Suspense, Historical, Psychological
The novel Sherlock Holmes has been adapted many times, so it’s impressive when an anime offers a new take on this familiar story.
Moriarty the Patriot certainly does, reversing the storyline so that the audience follows Holmes’ iconic nemesis, Moriarty, forcing the audience to question who is morally right.
Add tons of Ikemen guys in suits, and it’s not hard to see why fans love this one of Production IG’s newest anime.
