10 Shows Like Wonder Egg Priority (2021)

Description: Explores deep psychological and existential themes, blending surreal imagery with intense character introspection. The narrative delves into trauma, identity, and the blurred lines between reality and perception.

Fact: Originally intended to be a more straightforward mecha series, but evolved into a deeply personal and philosophical work due to the creator's struggles with depression. The iconic 'Instrumentality' sequence was created with an extremely limited budget, leading to its abstract, avant-garde style.

Description: A nonlinear, psychological horror series that delves into urban legends, trauma, and the supernatural. The storytelling is fragmented and atmospheric, with a focus on the darker aspects of human psychology.

Fact: Based on a light novel series that predates the modern 'light novel boom.' The monochrome visuals and eerie sound design create a uniquely unsettling tone.

Description: A cyberpunk masterpiece that questions identity, consciousness, and the merging of humanity with technology. The series balances action with philosophical depth, often exploring the ethical implications of its futuristic setting.

Fact: The 'Laughing Man' arc was inspired by real-world cyber-terrorism cases and J.D. Salinger's 'The Catcher in the Rye.' The soundtrack, composed by Yoko Kanno, blends electronic, jazz, and orchestral elements.

Description: A melancholic and introspective series that explores themes of redemption, guilt, and the search for meaning in a mysterious, dreamlike world. The storytelling is subtle and emotionally resonant.

Fact: Based on a doujinshi (self-published work) by Yoshitoshi Abe, who also did character designs for 'Serial Experiments Lain.' The series was praised for its unique world-building and quiet, contemplative pacing.

Description: A psychological thriller that examines societal pressures and collective trauma through a surreal, fragmented narrative. The series uses symbolism and shifting perspectives to explore the darker aspects of human nature.

Fact: The only TV series directed by Satoshi Kon, known for his mind-bending films like 'Perfect Blue' and 'Paprika.' The opening theme was composed by Susumu Hirasawa, who also worked on 'Berserk' and 'Paprika.'

Description: A dystopian cyberpunk story with heavy philosophical undertones, focusing on identity, free will, and the nature of humanity. The visuals and tone are dark and atmospheric, with a strong emphasis on psychological depth.

Fact: Features references to existentialist philosophy, including nods to Jean-Paul Sartre and Friedrich Nietzsche. The ED theme, 'Paranoid Android,' is a cover of the Radiohead song of the same name.

Description: A cyberpunk thriller that questions the morality of a surveillance state and the nature of justice. The series blends action with deep psychological and ethical dilemmas, often putting characters in morally ambiguous situations.

Fact: The concept was inspired by classic dystopian literature like '1984' and 'Brave New World.' The Sibyl System's design was influenced by real-world predictive policing technologies.

Description: A visually stunning, surreal journey through dreamlike worlds that explores themes of self-discovery and emotional growth. The animation is vibrant and experimental, with a narrative that blurs reality and fantasy.

Fact: The series pays homage to classic anime and Western animation, with references to 'Alice in Wonderland' and 'Magical Girl' tropes. The director, Kiyotaka Oshiyama, previously worked as an animator on 'Studio Ghibli' films.

Description: A haunting adventure that juxtaposes whimsical fantasy with brutal, existential horror. The story explores the cost of curiosity and the fragility of humanity in a beautifully grotesque world.

Fact: The Abyss's layered structure was inspired by real-world cave systems and the concept of 'The Journey to the Center of the Earth.' The soundtrack, composed by Kevin Penkin, won critical acclaim for its ethereal and emotional depth.

Description: A dark fantasy with a focus on psychological tension and survival, where children uncover horrifying truths about their world. The narrative thrives on suspense and emotional weight, with a strong emphasis on character dynamics.

Fact: The manga was serialized in 'Weekly Shonen Jump,' surprising readers with its grim tone compared to the magazine's usual upbeat series. The first season's soundtrack was composed by Takahiro Obata, known for his work on 'Death Note.'