Netflix's Cyberpunk: Edgerunners burst onto the anime scene with an intensity rarely seen in the streaming world. As a standalone adaptation of the Cyberpunk 2077 video game, the series hooked fans with its stunning animation, emotional story, and true-to-the-game world-building. Yet, despite its undeniable success, Netflix has seemingly left the show to wither away. After a single explosive season, fans are left wondering why a series with such high praise and dedicated followers was never given the green light for a continuation.

While many Netflix anime series suffer from lackluster reception, Cyberpunk: Edgerunners was anything but forgettable. Its dynamic characters and gripping narrative earned it a spot among the most beloved Netflix anime adaptations. However, instead of capitalizing on this success, the streaming giant appears content with letting the series fade into obscurity. Was this a calculated decision to preserve its status as a standalone masterpiece, or a massive missed opportunity to build a franchise with untapped potential?

The Case for a One-Season Wonder

Why Cyberpunk: Edgerunners May Be Best Left At Just One Season

In some ways, Cyberpunk: Edgerunners ending after one season was the right move. The series was a self-contained, emotionally charged narrative that did not overstay its welcome by dragging on for too long. Its tragic ending felt authentic, staying true to the gritty and unforgiving world of Cyberpunk 2077. Stretching the story beyond its natural conclusion could have risked diluting its powerful message.

Additionally, keeping Cyberpunk: Edgerunners as a singe-season series maintains its artistic integrity. Its streamlined storytelling allowed its creators to craft a tightly woven story without the pressure of dragging out the plot for the sake of renewal. Sometimes, knowing when to end a story is just as important as knowing how to tell it.

Missed Opportunity or Smart Business Move?

Was Not Continuing Cyberpunk :Edgerunners for the Best?

On the other hand, Netflix's decision not to continue Cyberpunk: Edgerunners feels like a glaring oversight. With the show’s widespread acclaim, another season could have further cemented the franchise’s popularity and expanded its universe. Given the huge world of Cyberpunk 2077, countless stories could be explored, offering fresh perspectives and deeper lore. Additionally, Netflix has often been criticized for canceling beloved series prematurely.

By cutting Cyberpunk: Edgerunners short, the platform may be underestimating its own audience’s hunger for more. While limited series can be a powerful artistic choice, Netflix’s reputation for shelving promising shows might be contributing to viewer frustration and eventual disengagement. Ultimately, Cyberpunk: Edgerunners remains a shining example of what anime adaptations can achieve when given the proper care and creative freedom. Yet, its abrupt ending raises important questions about Netflix’s strategy. Was letting Cyberpunk: Edgerunners die a testament to artistic integrity or a miscalculation that robbed fans of something truly special? Fans will have to decide that for themselves, but one thing is certain and that is that the series is amazing.