I would also recommend 'Fate/stay night'. There are epic battles which are the action part. The relationship between the main characters, like Shirou and Saber, has a romantic undertone. The fantasy lies in the magic system and the summoning of heroic spirits. And it has some science - fiction - like elements in the way the Holy Grail War is set up and the powers that the spirits possess.
One great anime is 'Sword Art Online'. It has intense action scenes where the characters fight for survival in a virtual world. The romance between Kirito and Asuna is really touching. The fantasy element is strong with its unique virtual reality settings. And there are some science - fiction aspects like the technology that creates the virtual world.
Well, 'Kokoro Connect' is an underrated one. It has a bit of action when the characters face some unusual situations. The romance is quite subtle and develops gradually among the group of friends. The fantasy part comes from the strange phenomenon that makes them switch bodies and share emotions. And there are some elements that can be considered science - fiction as it involves some psychological and abnormal physical concepts.
Another problem is appealing to both the fantasy and science fiction audiences. Fantasy fans might be more interested in magic, mythical creatures, and traditional fantasy tropes, while science fiction fans are into futuristic technology, space exploration, etc. Combining the two means trying to satisfy the expectations of both groups, which can be quite difficult.
One of the best is 'Ender's Game' by Orson Scott Card. It's filled with intense battles in a space training academy for children who are being groomed to fight an alien threat. The action scenes are both strategic and heart - pounding as Ender progresses through his training and ultimately faces the real enemy.
Well, 'The Lord of the Rings' series, while not strictly science fiction but has a lot of action and amazing special effects. The battles, the creatures like the Balrog and the Ents were brought to life so well. In the sci - fi realm, 'Transformers' movies have really good special effects. The transforming robots look very realistic. Also, 'Ready Player One' had some mind - blowing special effects with all the different pop - culture references coming to life in the virtual world.
Naruto is mostly considered a fantasy anime. It features elements like ninjas with unique powers, mythical creatures, and magical jutsus.
I think 'Snow Crash' by Neal Stephenson is among the best. It has a fast - paced plot set in a future where the virtual world and the real world are intertwined. The main character, Hiro Protagonist, gets involved in all sorts of action - packed adventures, from high - speed chases in the virtual Metaverse to real - world battles against powerful corporations. 'Altered Carbon' by Richard K. Morgan is also excellent. In a world where consciousness can be transferred between bodies, Takeshi Kovacs, a former soldier, is brought back to solve a murder. There are lots of intense fight scenes and high - stakes action as he uncovers the truth in a corrupt and violent society.
One of the best is 'Ender's Game' by Orson Scott Card. It's about a young boy, Ender, who is trained in a military academy in space to fight against an alien threat. The battle room scenes are action - packed and the psychological depth makes it a great read.
One Punch Man. It has an amazing story where Saitama, a hero who can defeat any opponent with one punch, is constantly bored with the lack of challenge. The action scenes are spectacular, with Saitama effortlessly taking down powerful monsters. It also has great humor and a unique take on the superhero genre.
'Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood' is also great. It follows the Elric brothers' journey to regain their bodies after a failed alchemical experiment. The action is top - notch, with epic battles against powerful alchemists and creatures. The story is deep, exploring themes such as sacrifice, the value of life, and the consequences of playing god.
For beginners, 'The Hunger Games' can be considered. While it's mainly a dystopian science - fiction story, there is a romantic sub - plot that adds depth. It's easy to get into because of its fast - paced action. Another is 'City of Bones' from 'The Mortal Instruments' series. It has a good mix of fantasy elements like vampires and werewolves and a budding romance. 'Stardust' by Neil Gaiman is also great. It's a short and sweet fantasy with a romantic adventure at its core.