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The Best Anime About Time Travel - Watch Now!

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Finding something new to watch can take a lot of time. No worries, we at Maratona Pop have selected some time travel anime to save you the trouble!

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translated by Tabata Marques

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revised by Tabata Marques

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Introduction

Time travel is one of the most fascinating concepts fiction has ever explored. In the world of anime, this theme gains even more depth through creative narratives and unforgettable characters, who often endure significant hardships as a result of time travel. Whether it's to correct past mistakes, change the future, or simply survive, these stories transport us to adventures full of twists and turns.

If you enjoy stories that blend science fiction with drama, we’ve prepared a list of anime that embrace, reinterpret, or even find creative ways to incorporate time travel into their plots. Sure, some examples might feel a bit contrived, but let’s be honest—what truly matters is the impact these stories leave behind. If you're a fan of narratives that challenge destiny and play with the flow of time, this list of time travel anime is for you!

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Why Are Time Travel Stories So Popular?

Time travel stories have always held a special appeal. They offer not only the chance to explore the possibilities and consequences of altering the past or influencing the future but also to reflect on deeper themes, like the impact of our choices and the value of the present moment—sometimes making us think a little too much.

Moreover, these plots often blend genres such as mystery, drama, and even comedy, creating exciting and engaging experiences. It’s no wonder so many anime continue to explore this concept in unique and captivating ways.

So, without further ado, let’s dive into the list!

Anime That Explore Time Travel

Steins;Gate

Steins;Gate Poster
Steins;Gate Poster

Synopsis: The story follows Rintarou Okabe, a self-proclaimed mad scientist who, along with his friends, discovers a way to send text messages to the past. What begins as a curious experiment quickly turns into a nightmare as powerful organizations start chasing them for their discoveries.

Why Watch: Steins;Gate is a masterclass in using time travel as a narrative tool. With charismatic characters, a dense storyline, and emotional moments, this anime is a must-watch for any sci-fi fan.

Re:Zero – Starting Life in Another World

REM and Emillia from Re:Zero
REM and Emillia from Re:Zero

Synopsis: Subaru Natsuki is transported to a fantasy world where he discovers the power to "return by death" every time he dies. This places him in an endless cycle of trial and error as he tries to save those he loves.

Why Watch: While time travel isn’t the central focus, the creative use of "return by death" makes Re:Zero a unique experience. Get ready for intense emotions and heartbreaking choices at every turn.

Erased (Boku dake ga Inai Machi)

Erased Poster
Erased Poster

Synopsis: Satoru Fujinuma has the ability to travel back in time to prevent imminent tragedies. When he’s accused of a crime he didn’t commit, he returns to his childhood to stop a series of tragic events.

Why Watch: Erased masterfully blends suspense, mystery, and drama. The constant tension and Satoru’s quest for truth make this anime a must-watch for anyone who enjoys emotionally gripping stories.

Summertime Render

Ushio from Summertime Render
Ushio from Summertime Render

Synopsis: Shinpei returns to his hometown for the funeral of his childhood friend Ushio. However, he soon discovers something sinister is happening and finds himself trapped in a time loop, trying to unravel the mystery while fighting to save those he loves.

Why Watch: Summertime Render is an intriguing mix of mystery, suspense, and fantasy. The use of time loops is central to the plot, ensuring tension and surprises in every episode.

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Tokyo Revengers

Takemichi from Tokyo Revengers
Takemichi from Tokyo Revengers

Synopsis: Takemichi Hanagaki discovers he can travel back in time to his youth and tries to prevent the death of his ex-girlfriend by rewriting the events that led to it. In the process, he becomes involved with gangs and dangerous fights.

Why Watch: If you enjoy intense stories focusing on friendship and overcoming challenges, Tokyo Revengers is for you. Time travel serves as the catalyst for a plot full of action and emotional moments, playing a fundamental role in the story.

Your Name (Kimi no Na wa)

Taki and friends from Your Name
Taki and friends from Your Name

Synopsis: Mitsuha and Taki, two young people from completely different lives, begin mysteriously swapping bodies. Eventually, they discover they’re separated by a temporal barrier and must find a way to connect.

Why Watch: Your Name blends romance and fantasy with a touch of sci-fi. The treatment of time travel in the third act is subtle but extremely impactful, leaving a lasting impression on viewers.

Dragon Ball Z (Android/Cell Saga)

Trunks from Dragon Ball Z
Trunks from Dragon Ball Z

Synopsis: Trunks, the son of Vegeta and Bulma, travels from the future to warn Goku and his friends about the android threat. His arrival alters the course of history, setting the stage for epic battles.

Why Watch: While time travel isn’t the main theme of Dragon Ball Z, Trunks’ saga is one of the most beloved by fans. It’s a great excuse to revisit some of the best fights in the anime.

Puella Magi Madoka Magica

Puella Magi Madoka Magica Poster
Puella Magi Madoka Magica Poster

Synopsis: Homura Akemi, one of the protagonists, is trapped in a time loop trying to save Madoka from a tragic fate. This element is revealed in a surprising way throughout the story.

Why Watch: Madoka Magica subverts expectations of a "magical girl anime" and delivers a dark, emotional narrative. The use of time travel is crucial to the story’s emotional impact.

Conclusion

Time travel is a theme that challenges our imagination (and comprehension), prompting us to reflect on the consequences of our actions. Whether in intense stories like Steins;Gate, lighter approaches like Your Name, or fantastical settings like Re:Zero, anime demonstrates that this concept is as versatile as it is fascinating.

Do you have a favorite time travel anime that wasn’t included? We probably missed a few! Leave your suggestions in the comments, and let’s keep this conversation going!

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