It absolutely counts. Some of my favorite science fiction shows are anime. I'm not sure why it doesn't come up more often in this community. I tried bringing it up a few times early on. Also our communities icon is from Cowboy Bebop.
Cowboy Bebop is my all time favorite anime. Wish it had more episodes, but a big part of the reason why I like it so much is that it didn’t drag on for too many seasons once the writers ran out of ideas.
I agree it is the perfect length and doesn't needlessly drag on. I don't think it could ever continue at this point and I'm not sure it even needs to. I wouldn't mind seeing something entirely new either in the same universe or with the same vibes.
It has some of the best animation I've ever seen, and it has the perfect mix of being over the top ridiculous but also taking itself seriously. Also the swearing and banter in the dub is hilarious.
I'm watching all the similar ones I haven't seen yet next, like Genocyber, Angel Cop, Battle Angel, Angel Cop, Parasite Dolls, etc.