What do you imagine when it comes to Dark Anime? I’m sure many of you still haven’t imagined it, right? Dark Anime is mostly not horror movies. Dark anime focuses on a lot of depth, often going into the essential aspects of the soul, like death or mental illness.
The characters walk the line between good and evil, showing moral conceptions. An anime with a “Dark” theme can give all viewers an authentic experience, no matter how unbelievable the whole scene is. The hidden corner of a dark anime world is too high for the imagination of readers, so this genre is also a very particular genre to watch. Still, once you understand it, anime is extremely valuable.
1. Monster
Monster | Information |
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Anime Name | Monster |
Author | Naoki Urasawa |
Genre | Crime, Mystery, Psychological thriller |
Manga | Manga |
Published by | Shogakukan |
English publisher | Viz Media |
Magazine | Big Comic Original |
Demographic | Seinen |
Original run | December 1994 – December 2001 |
Volumes | 18 |
Novel | Another Monster |
Published | 21 June 2002 |
Anime television series | Directed by Masayuki Kojima |
Studio | Madhouse |
Licensed by | AUS: Siren Visual, NA: Viz Media, SEA: Odex |
Original network | Nippon TV |
English network | CA: Super Channel, US: Syfy, Chiller, Funimation Channel |
Original run | 7 April 2004 – 28 September 2005 |
Episodes | 74 |
International Acclaim | – Best-selling manga series with over 20 million copies sold |
Protagonist | Dr. Kenzo Tenma, a Japanese surgeon living in Düsseldorf, Germany |
Plot | Revolves around Tenma’s life in turmoil after getting involved with Johan Liebert, a dangerous serial killer |
Monster about Kenzo Tenma is a young Japanese doctor who worked at the Eisler Friendship Hospital in Düsseldorf, Germany, during the Cold War in the 1980s. When he had to choose between operating on the Mayor of Düsseldorf and Johan, the boy whose family was massacred, he decided to operate on Johan. But then Dean Heinemann and several of Tenma’s colleagues were mysteriously murdered. He regains his position, but life is not easy when he becomes a suspect in a crime.
2. Aoi Bungaku: Ningen Shikkaku (Blue Literature: No Longer Human)
Aoi Bungaku Ningen | Information |
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Anime Name | Aoi Bungaku: Ningen Shikkaku (Blue Literature: No Longer Human) |
Aoi Bungaku Series | Aoi Bungaku Series |
First Blu-ray Volume Cover | For the No Longer Human story |
Directed by | Morio Asaka, Tetsurō Araki, Shigeyuki Miya, Ryosuke Nakamura, Atsuko Ishizuka |
Written by | Satoshi Suzuki, Ken Iizuka, Mika Abe, Sumino Kawashima, Atsuko Ishizuka, Yūji Kobayashi |
Music by | Hideki Taniuchi, Shusei Murai |
Studio | Madhouse |
Original Network | Nippon TV |
Original Run | October 11, 2009 – December 27, 2009 |
Episodes | 12 |
Character Designs | Takeshi Obata, Tite Kubo, Takeshi Konomi |
Production Companies | Happinet, Hakuhodo DY Media Partners, McRAY, MTI, Threelight Holdings, Movic, Visionare |
Review | Emmanuel Bahu-Leyser from the French Animeland described the series as having realistic, deep, and mature stories. However, he noted that the adaptation quality varied between teams. |
Based on the great literary novel by Osamu Dazai. Ningen Shikkaku is one of many stories in the Aoi Bungaku Series. This animated short follows the ruined life of an estranged high school student into adulthood and, ultimately, his death. He is depressed and somewhat selfish and finds it difficult, if not at all, to relate to others. He thinks he is a failure, hence the title No Longer Human.
3. Death Note
Death Note | Information |
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Anime Name | Death Note |
Author | Tsugumi Ohba |
Illustrator | Takeshi Obata |
Serialized Period | December 2003 – May 2006 |
Manga Volumes | 12 |
Main Character | Light Yagami |
Plot Summary | Death Note follows the story of Light Yagami, a high school student who discovers a supernatural notebook that grants him the power to kill anyone whose name he writes in it. Light uses the notebook to carry out his own form of justice and create a crime-free society. However, his actions attract the attention of an enigmatic detective known as L, who is determined to stop him. The series explores themes of morality, justice, and the consequences of playing god. |
Anime Adaptation | A 37-episode anime television series aired from October 2006 to June 2007. |
Director | Tetsurō Araki |
Studio | Madhouse |
Live-action Adaptations | Three live-action films were released in Japan in 2006 and 2008, with a television drama in 2015 and an American film in 2017. |
Video Games | Various video games were published by Konami for the Nintendo DS. |
North American Release | The Death Note manga, anime, and live-action adaptations have been licensed and released in North America by Viz Media. |
Popularity | The Death Note manga had over 30 million copies in circulation, making it one of the best-selling manga series. |
Yagami Light is a brilliant high school student, but he is always angry with the crimes and corruption that take place in the world. Only in 2003, when Yagami unintentionally picked up a mysterious notebook known as the Death Note, did his life begin to alter. At first, Yagami was skeptical about the notebook’s authenticity, thinking it was someone’s mischievous prank. When he met the god of death, holding a notebook named Ryuk, Light decided to act to become the new god of the world by repairing and replacing the law that judges criminals with only one sentence, death.
4. Vampire Hunter D 2000
Vampire Hunter D | Information |
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Title | Vampire Hunter D: Bloodlust |
Japanese Title | 吸血鬼ハンターD ブラッドラスト |
Genre | Dark Fantasy, Vampire Adventure |
Director | Yoshiaki Kawajiri |
Production Companies | Madhouse, Filmlink International, BMG Japan, Movic, Good Hill Vision, Soft Capital |
Character Designer | Yutaka Minowa |
Music Composer | Marco D’Ambrosio |
Based on | Vampire Hunter D series: Demon Deathchase (novel by Hideyuki Kikuchi) |
Release Year | 2000 |
Running Time | 102 minutes |
Language | Japanese |
Distribution | Nippon Herald Films (Japan) |
Main Characters | D, Meier Link, Charlotte Elbourne |
Plot | A young woman named Charlotte Elbourne is abducted by the vampire nobleman Baron Meier Link, leading her father to hire D, a dhampir, to rescue her. Joined by the Marcus Brothers, a group of vampire hunters, they embark on a dangerous journey to confront Meier and his allies. As secrets are revealed and alliances shift, they face the Countess Carmilla Elizabeth Bathory and the challenges of a world filled with vampires and dark supernatural forces. |
Box Office | $151,086 |
Critical Reception | Vampire Hunter D: Bloodlust received generally favorable reviews from American critics. It was praised for its gothic charms, crisp action, and nightmarish style. The film was described as a gorgeously animated surrealist adventure, appealing to both fans and non-fans of the series. Director Yoshiaki Kawajiri’s striking visuals were highlighted, although some critics noted that the story could be thin and chaotic. |
The mysterious Vampire Hunter D 2000 story begins when the wealthy Elbourne family gives money to ghost hunters for bonuses to find and save their daughter Charlotte from the great vampire Meier Link. The Elbourne family hires a team of professional ghost hunters is quite heterogeneous, the “Markus brothers,” to track Meier. To be sure, they also hire D, a skilled and mysterious Dunpeal (“Dhampir”, half-human, half-vampire).
5. Hellsing Ultimate
Hellsing Ultimate | Information |
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Anime Name | Hellsing Ultimate |
Genre | Action, Dark fantasy, Vampire |
Manga | Manga |
Written by | Kouta Hirano |
Published by | Shōnen Gahōsha |
English publisher | AUS: Madman Entertainment NA: Dark Horse Comics Digital Manga SG: Chuang Yi |
Imprint | Young King Comics |
Magazine | Young King OURs |
Demographic | Seinen |
Original run | May 1997 – September 2008 |
Volumes | 10 |
Directed by | Umanosuke Iida (chief), Yasunori Urata |
Music by | Yasushi Ishii |
Studio | Gonzo |
Licensed by | AUS: Madman Entertainment NA: Crunchyroll UK: Manga Entertainment |
Original network | Fuji TV |
English network | US: Encore Action |
Episodes | 13 |
Original video animation | Hellsing Ultimate |
Directed by | Tomokazu Tokoro, Hiroyuki Tanaka, Yasuhiro Matsumura, Kenichi Suzuki |
Produced by | Yasuyuki Ueda, Yoshiyuki Fudetani |
Written by | Yōsuke Kuroda, Hideyuki Kurata |
Music by | Hayato Matsuo |
Studio | Satelight, Madhouse, Graphinica |
Released | February 10, 2006 – December 26, 2012 |
Runtime | 42–68 minutes |
Episodes | 10 |
Series Overview | Hellsing Ultimate is an action-packed dark fantasy anime based on the manga by Kouta Hirano. It follows the Hellsing Organization as they combat vampires and supernatural foes threatening England. The series consists of 13 episodes and was directed by Umanosuke Iida and Yasunori Urata. The anime was produced by Gonzo and aired from October 2001 to January 2002. Hellsing Ultimate, an original video animation (OVA), was released between February 2006 and December 2012. It closely follows the manga storyline and consists of 10 episodes directed by Tomokazu Tokoro, Hiroyuki Tanaka, Yasuhiro Matsumura, and Kenichi Suzuki. The OVA was produced by Satelight, Madhouse, and Graphinica. The series gained popularity for its captivating blend of action, dark fantasy, and vampire themes. |
Bram Stoker’s novel Dracula ends when Professor Abraham Van Helsing kills Count Dracula with a stake through his heart. However, is Dracula dead? Or is he still alive, but in the name of an assassin, a hunting dog, a garbage disposal specialist of the Hellsing organization – the Hellsing family? Hellsing Ultimate is based entirely on the Hellsing manga, about the Hellsing organization’s battle with the vampires in a vast conspiracy spanning more than 50 years of a Nazi war-crazed fascist.
6. Zankyou no Terror (Terror in Resonance)
Zankyou no Terror | Information |
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Anime Name | Zankyou no Terror (Terror in Resonance) |
Japanese Title | 残響のテロル (Zankyō no Teroru) |
Genre | Psychological thriller |
Creator | Shinichirō Watanabe |
Studio | MAPPA |
Director | Shinichirō Watanabe |
Character Designer | Kazuto Nakazawa |
Music Composer | Yoko Kanno |
Original Network | Fuji TV (Noitamina) |
Original Run | July 10, 2014 – September 25, 2014 |
Episodes | 11 |
Main Characters | Nine (Arata Kokonoe), Twelve (Toji Hisami), Lisa Mishima |
Plot Summary | Two teenage boys named Nine and Twelve, survivors of a secret experiment, engage in a series of terrorist attacks, calling themselves “Sphinx.” They challenge the authorities with cryptic riddles, threatening to destroy Tokyo. Lisa, a lonely high school girl, becomes involved in their plans to expose the organization responsible for the experiment. |
Soundtrack | Composed by Yoko Kanno; Opening theme: “Trigger” by Yuuki Ozaki; Ending theme: “Dare ka, Umi o.” by Aimer |
Awards | Anime of the Year, Best Original Anime of the Year, and Mystery or Psychological Anime of the Year at the Anime Trending Awards in 2014; Daruma d’or anime at the Japan Expo Awards 2016; Part of the Jury Selections at the Japan Media Arts Festival in the Animation category in 2014. |
Critical Acclaim | Highly praised for its direction, art design, and music; described as a “meditation on the contradictory complexities of modern society”; considered a “rich and passionate” anime with exceptional visuals and music. |
Ban in China | Listed among anime and manga titles banned in China in 2015 due to scenes of violence, pornography, terrorism, and crimes against public morality. |
The Terror in Resonance film’s setting is another version of the city of Tokyo, devastated by a shocking terrorist attack. An odd video posted online is the sole indicator of who the offenders are. While the whole world is hunting for the culprit to blame for this tragedy, two mysterious teenagers under the alias Nine – real name Kokonoe Shin and Twelve – real name Hisami Fuyuji, both combined turned into the Sphinx, plotting a wicked plan to awaken the world with their finger on the trigger.
7. Jigoku Shoujo (Hell Girl)
Jigoku Shoujo | Information |
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Anime Name | Jigoku Shoujo (Hell Girl) |
Genre | Dark fantasy, Supernatural thriller |
Created by | Hiroshi Watanabe |
Produced by | SKY Perfect Well Think, Tokyo MX, Wakasa Seikatsu, Fujishoji, Aniplex, Studio Deen |
Directed by | Hiroshi Watanabe, Takahiro Omori |
Series Composition | Kenichi Kanemaki |
Character Design | Mariko Oka |
Music | Yasuharu Takanashi, Hiromi Mizutani, Kenji Fujisawa |
Original run | October 2005 – April 2006 |
Episodes | 26 |
Additional Seasons | Hell Girl: Two Mirrors, Hell Girl: Three Vessels, Hell Girl: The Fourth Twilight |
Live-Action Adaptation | Television drama, Live-action film |
Manga Adaptation | Serialized in Nakayoshi magazine, three titles: Hell Girl, Shin Jigoku Shōjo, Jigoku Shōjo R |
Video Games | Jigoku Shōjo Akekazura (Nintendo DS), Jigoku Shōjo Mioyosuga (PlayStation 2) |
A website only appears at exactly midnight. Enma Ai – Jigoku Shoujo (Girl from Hell) will appear when you enter your enemy’s name on the website. She and her assistants will drag your enemies to Hell. But in return, if you choose to take revenge this way, you will also have to pay the price.
8. Tokyo Ghoul
Tokyo Ghoul | Information |
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Title | Tokyo Ghoul |
Genre | Dark fantasy, Horror, Action, Supernatural |
Author | Sui Ishida |
Manga Serialization | September 2011 to September 2014 |
Manga Volumes | 14 tankōbon volumes |
Setting | Alternate version of Tokyo where humans coexist with ghouls |
Protagonist | Ken Kaneki, a college student transformed into a half-ghoul |
Plot | Kaneki must navigate the complex social and political dynamics between humans and ghouls while struggling to maintain his humanity |
Anime Adaptation | 12-episode first season aired from July to September 2014 |
Second Season | Tokyo Ghoul √A, 12-episode season with an original story, aired from January to March 2015 |
Live-action Films | Released in Japan in July 2017 and July 2019 |
Sequel Manga | Tokyo Ghoul:re, serialized from October 2014 to July 2018, collected in 16 tankōbon volumes |
Anime Sequel | Tokyo Ghoul:re, aired for two seasons from April to June 2018 and October to December 2018 |
English Release | Viz Media licensed the manga, Funimation licensed the anime series for streaming and home video distribution |
Worldwide Circulation | Over 47 million copies in circulation as of January 2021, making it one of the best-selling manga series of all time |
Ghoul Characteristics | Enhanced strength, regenerative abilities, kagune (a special predatory organ), and distinctive red eyes known as kakugan |
Half-Ghoul | A half-ghoul is usually stronger than a pure-blood ghoul, possessing some ghoul organs, but only one eye undergoes the “red eye” transformation |
Prequel and Sequel Manga | Tokyo Ghoul [Jack] and Tokyo Ghoul:re focus on different characters and expand the story |
Light Novels | Four light novels with additional stories and backstories have been released |
Anime Adaptations | Tokyo Ghoul (12 episodes), Tokyo Ghoul √A (12 episodes), Tokyo Ghoul:re (two seasons) |
Tokyo Ghoul is a dark story of the city of Tokyo, where a series of murders are committed by demons disguised as humans. Our main character is a university student named Kaneki who meets Rize because the two have the same adaptability, so they fall in love. On the night of the date, Rize and Kaneki walked together into a secluded street and Kaneki’s life changed that night.
9. Death Parade
Death Parade | Information |
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Anime Name | Death Parade |
Japanese Title | デス・パレード (Desu Parēdo) |
Creator | Yuzuru Tachikawa |
Studio | Madhouse |
Release Year | 2013 (Death Billiards), 2015 (Death Parade) |
Genre | Psychological thriller |
Licensed by | Funimation (North America) |
Original Network | Nippon TV |
Opening Theme | “Flyers” by Bradio |
Ending Theme | “Last Theater” by NoisyCell |
Number of Episodes | 12 |
Notable Awards | Winner of the 2016 Anime Trending Awards for “Best Original Anime” |
Notable Recognition | Included in IGN’s list of the best anime series of the 2010s |
You’ll be fascinated by the first episode of Death Parade, one of the most well-known psychological thrillers ever made. After death, what awaits a person is not heaven or hell but a bar. Here, bartenders have more important business than serving drinks, i.e., allowing the deceased to reincarnate or send them into oblivion based on the outcome of a random game. This anime questions human morality and how willing they are to overcome it.
10. Aku No Hana (The Flowers Of Evil)
Aku No Hana | Information |
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Anime Name | Aku No Hana (The Flowers Of Evil) |
Genre | Coming-of-age, Psychological drama, Suspense |
Manga | Written and illustrated by Shūzō Oshimi |
Serialized in | Kodansha’s Bessatsu Shōnen Magazine |
Original Run | September 2009 – May 2014 |
Anime Television Series | Produced by Zexcs |
Directed by | Hiroshi Nagahama |
Written by | Aki Itami |
Music by | Hideyuki Fukasawa |
Episodes | 13 |
Animation Style | Utilized controversial rotoscoping technique |
Live-action Film | Released in September 2019 |
Directed by | Noboru Iguchi |
Written by | Mari Okada |
Music by | Yasuhiko Fukuda |
English Release | Manga licensed by Vertical, Anime series licensed by Sentai Filmworks |
The main characters in Aku no Hana are Kasuga Takao, a youngster fascinated with Baudelaire’s Les Fleurs du Mal; Saeki Nanako, his inspiration and the owner of the gym outfit he stole; and Kasuga, a witnessed to the crime. Despite the plot’s general description and resemblance to a shoddy comedy or hentai film, Aku no Hana unfolds extremely differently. Aku no Hana is about what it’s like to struggle to be with the people we regard as our family.
11. Banana Fish
Banana Fish | Information |
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Anime Name | Banana Fish |
Genre | Drama, thriller |
Created by | Akimi Yoshida |
Manga | Published by Shogakukan |
English publisher | Viz Media |
Demographic | Shōjo |
Original run | May 1985 – April 1994 |
Volumes | 19 |
Prequels & related works | Fly Boy, In The Sky, Angel Eyes, Garden of Light, Private Opinion |
Anime television series | Directed by Hiroko Utsumi |
Produced by | Yuka Okayasu, Kyōko Uryū |
Studio | MAPPA |
Original network | Fuji TV (Noitamina) |
Original run | July 5, 2018 – December 20, 2018 |
Episodes | 24 |
Setting | Primarily in 1980s New York City |
Protagonist | Ash Lynx, a street gang leader |
Plot | Ash uncovers a criminal conspiracy involving a mysterious drug called “banana fish” |
Style | Realistic artwork, action-oriented storytelling |
Influence | Influential on the boys’ love genre of manga |
English translation | Published by Viz Media |
Adaptations | 24-episode anime television series produced by MAPPA |
Global syndication | Amazon Prime Video simulcast the series |
Critical reception | Acclaimed for plot, dialogue, and action scenes |
Commercial success | Over 12 million copies of collected volumes in circulation |
Conclusion | Series concludes with the death of the protagonist Ash Lynx |
Banana Fish takes the dark theme right from the first episode. Then, when you thought everything was finally found, the next episode will have your heart broken into pieces for the hundredth time. The plot centers on Ash Lynx, the gang’s 17-year-old leader, and the two words said by Griffin’s brother: “Banana Fish.” Both parties strive to find solutions and a way out of this disaster as Japanese photojournalist Eiji Okumura prepares to join the fight.
12. Munou na Nana (Talentless Nana)
Munou na Nana | Information |
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Anime Name | Talentless Nana (無能なナナ) |
Author | Looseboy |
Illustrator | Iori Furuya |
Serialized in | Monthly Shōnen Gangan |
Publisher | Square Enix |
English Publisher | Crunchyroll (digital) |
Original Run (Manga) | May 2016 – Present |
Volumes | 11 (Ongoing) |
Anime Adaptation | Yes |
Studio | Bridge |
Director | Shinji Ishihira |
Series Composition | Fumihiko Shimo |
Character Design | Satohiko Sano |
Music | Yasuharu Takanashi (Nippon Columbia) |
Original Network | AT-X, Tokyo MX, SUN, TVA |
Original Run (Anime) | October 4, 2020 – December 27, 2020 |
Episodes | 13 |
Opening Theme | “Broken Sky” by Miyu Tomita |
Ending Theme | “Bakemono to Yobarete” by Chiai Fujikawa |
Licensed by | Crunchyroll (streaming) |
English Dub | Yes (Funimation) |
In Munou Na Nana‘s world, there are children with supernatural powers such as fire palm, ice makers, teleports, etc. To train these individuals to become heroes to exterminate the “enemies of humanity”, an academy was established on a deserted island isolated from the world. In the series’ first episode, we will feel the darkness covering us. And, of course, later the darkness in the film becomes more and more overwhelming, making the viewer feel more pressured.
13. Higurashi no Naku Koro ni (Higurashi When They Cry)
Higurashi no Naku | Information |
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Anime Name | Higurashi no Naku Koro ni (Higurashi When They Cry) |
Japanese Title | ひぐらしのなく頃に (Higurashi no Naku Koro ni) |
Genre | Murder mystery, Psychological horror, Supernatural horror |
Created by | Ryukishi07 |
Visual Novel | Yes |
Platform | Microsoft Windows, PlayStation 2, Nintendo DS, iOS, Android, PlayStation 3, PlayStation Vita, macOS, Linux, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4 |
Original Release | August 2002 – August 2006 (PC series) |
Story Setting | Fictional village of Hinamizawa in 1983 |
Anime Adaptations | Two television series (2006, 2007) and an original video animation (OVA) series (2009) |
Live-Action Films | Two live-action film adaptations (2008, 2009) |
Manga Adaptation | Multiple manga adaptations published by Square Enix and Kadokawa Shoten |
English Localization | Released by MangaGamer between 2009 and 2010 |
Chapters | Divided into question arcs and answer arcs, each covering a separate story arc |
Hinamizawa Syndrome | Disease that induces paranoia, delusion, and homicidal rage in its victims |
Complex Narrative | Intricate mystery with multiple realities and twists, challenging the audience to deduce the reasoning behind the events |
Expanded Franchise | Additional stories in manga, video games, drama CDs, novels, and more |
Memorable Characters | Keiichi Maebara, Mion Sonozaki, Rena Ryūgū, Rika Furude, Satoko Hōjō, and more |
Emotional Resonance | Balances suspense, horror, and tragedy to create a compelling and immersive experience for viewers |
Higurashi no Naku Koro ni, or Higurashi When They Cry, is an extraordinarily dark and gruesome anime told like a melodrama series. The story revolves around Keiichi Maebara, who has just moved to the quaint small village of Hinamizawa. Their seemingly idyllic life quickly ends when Keiichi discovers that several murders and disappearances in the village seem to be related to its annual festival and the village’s patron god, Oyashiro.
14. Serial Experiments Lain
Serial Experiments Lain | Information |
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Title | Serial Experiments Lain |
Creators | Yasuyuki Ueda, Chiaki J. Konaka, Ryūtarō Nakamura |
Animation Studio | Triangle Staff |
Original Character Designs | Yoshitoshi Abe |
Original Network | TV Tokyo (TXN) |
Original Run | July 6, 1998 – September 28, 1998 |
Episodes | 13 |
Main Protagonist | Lain Iwakura, an introverted adolescent girl |
Themes | Reality, identity, communication, consciousness |
Setting | Suburban Japan, explores the virtual realm known as the Wired |
Critical Reception | Praised for originality, visuals, atmosphere, and themes |
Awards | Excellence Prize at the Japan Media Arts Festival |
Multimedia Project | Planned to connect anime, video games, and manga |
Video Game | Developed and released alongside the anime series |
Manga Adaptation | “The Nightmare of Fabrication” by Yoshitoshi Abe |
Influential Figures | Masami Eiri, the project director on Protocol Seven |
Final Scenes | Lain erases memories connected to herself, promises to meet her friend Alice again |
Production Risk | Considered an enormous risk by producer Yasuyuki Ueda |
Cultural Context | Intended as a “war of ideas” between Japanese and American culture |
Character Design | Lain’s asymmetrical hair represents her unstable nature |
Bear Motif | Bears used as a shield for confrontations and symbol of protection |
The story revolves around technician Lain Iwakura, an introverted fourteen-year-old young man. She was one of many girls at her school who received a disturbing email from classmate Chisa Yomoda, who recently committed suicide. Despite neither the desire nor the experience to handle the underlying technology, Lain opened the letter, leading her straight into Wired, a virtual world of communication networks. Serial Experiments Lain is a groundbreaking anime for its period since every detail has been carefully considered.
15. Texhnolyze
Texhnolyze | Information |
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Anime Name | Texhnolyze |
Studio | Madhouse |
Director | Hiroshi Hamasaki |
Written by | Chiaki J. Konaka |
Music by | Keishi Urata, Hajime Mizoguchi |
Produced by | Henry Gotō, Satoshi Shikata, Yasuyuki Ueda, Yoshimichi Murata |
Original Network | FNS (Fuji TV) |
English Network | CA: G4techTV Canada (Anime Current), US: Encore Action (Animidnight), Funimation Channel, Funimation Channel on Demand, ZA: Animax |
Original Run | April 16, 2003 – September 24, 2003 |
Episodes | 22 |
Main Character | Ichise |
Setting | Fictional city of Lux |
Plot Focus | Power struggles among different factions in Lux |
Key Concept | Texhnolyzation – Replacing lost limbs with prosthetic limbs using the fictional material raffia |
Themes | Existentialism, Identity, Power Dynamics, Futuristic Dystopia |
Ending Theme | “Tsuki no Uta” by Gackt |
International Broadcast | Aired in the United States on STARZ!/Encore’s Action channel, Funimation Channel, and G4techTV Canada |
Additional Episodes | Two unaired episodes were included in the DVD release |
Texhnolyze takes place in Lux, an artificial underground city on the verge of collapse. The anime’s plot revolves around Ichise, an award-winning athlete who has now lost his arms and legs, being replaced by a newly designed Texhnolyze. They quickly learn that Lux is on the point of war and collapse and that they could be the only ones who can save it when he meets Ran, a fascinating young girl who can glimpse potential futures.
16. Now And Then, Here And There
Now and Then | Information |
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Anime Name | Now and Then, Here and There (今、そこにいる僕) |
Director | Akitaro Daichi |
Screenplay | Hideyuki Kurata |
Premiere Date | October 14, 1999 |
Final Episode Date | January 20, 2000 |
English Release | Central Park Media (US Manga Corps label) |
Re-release | ADV Films on July 7, 2009 |
Availability | iTunes, YouTube, Google Play |
Main Protagonist | Shuzo “Shu” Matsutani |
Setting | Desolate, militarized world |
Pendant Power | Lala-Ru controls a pendant with a vast reservoir of water |
Harsh Reality | Shu trapped, beaten, and interrogated by ruthless dictator Hamdo |
Encounter | Shu meets abducted girl Sara Ringwalt, mistaken for Lala-Ru |
Themes | War, famine, consequences of war, slavery, rape, exploitation of children |
Soundtrack | Seventeen tracks, including opening and ending sequences |
Critics’ Reception | Praised as “wonderfully scripted show,” “devastating and brutal,” and “one of the best-written and most emotionally powerful anime series ever made” |
Now and Then, Here and There is possibly one of the most engaging and emotionally impacting series. The main character, Shuuzou, enjoys this daily life with his clichéd principles of righteousness. At its core, anime remains a character-driven incest fantasy, illustrating the true horrors of war and its damage to humanity. Even if Now and Then, Here, and There is depressing and gloomy, it is worthwhile to risk your sanity on it.
17. Shinsekai Yori (From the New World)
Shinsekai Yori | Information |
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Anime Name | Shinsekai Yori (From the New World) |
Author | Yusuke Kishi |
Genre | Dark fantasy, Dystopian, Thriller |
Novel Publication | January 23, 2008 |
Manga Adaptation | Serialized from May 2012 to June 2014 |
Manga Author | Tōru Oikawa |
Anime Television Series | Aired from October 3, 2012, to March 27, 2013 |
Director | Masashi Ishihama |
Producer | Tomonori Ochikoshi, Osamu Hosokawa, Tetsuya Kinoshita, Atsushi Kaji, Junpei Kawakami |
Writer | Masashi Sogo |
Music | Shigeo Komori |
Studio | A-1 Pictures |
Licensed by | Hanabee (Australia), Sentai Filmworks (North America), MVM Films (UK) |
Original Network | CS TV Asahi Channel, TV Asahi, ABC |
English Network | Anime Network |
Total Episodes | 25 |
Novel Awards | Grand Prize of the 29th Nihon SF Taisho Award (2008) |
Key Themes | Social control, Morality, Consequences of power |
Synopsis | Set in a future where humans possess psychic abilities, the story follows Saki Watanabe and her friends as they navigate a world with dystopian elements and unravel the secrets of their society. |
Shinsekai Yori is slow-paced, world-building, and packed with information in the first few episodes. The story takes place in a romantic Japan in the future, where a part of the population still holds an extraordinary power called psychomotor. They follow a group of five children growing and developing in a community bound by strict rules. Shinsekai Yori has impressively portrayed people’s prejudiced and stigmatized nature in a way never seen before.
18. Berserk
Berserk | Information |
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Anime Name | Berserk |
Author | Kentaro Miura |
Genres | Dark fantasy, Action, Adventure, Horror, Supernatural |
Demographic | Seinen |
Adaptation | Manga |
Studios | OLM, Inc., GEMBA |
Episodes | 24 |
Original Run | October 7, 1997 – March 31, 1998 |
Opening Theme | “Tell Me Why” by Penpals |
Ending Theme | “Waiting So Long” by Silver Fins |
Main Protagonist | Guts |
Main Antagonist | Griffith |
Plot Summary | Berserk is a dark fantasy anime series based on the |
Meaning of Berserk | “Berserk” refers to being very angry or out of control. |
Europe inspired berserk in the 13th – 15th centuries. In this world, there existed rival kingdoms to expand their colonies. Berserk‘s protagonist is Guts, a character born from the corpse of his mother who was hanged and trained by Gambino to be a mercenary; he later joins the Falcon Army led by Griffith. Still, he is tricked into becoming a sacrifice so that Griffith would gain demonic powers. Luckily escaped death, Guts embraced hatred and, from there, began his revenge journey.
19. Yakusoku no Neverland (The Promised Neverland)
Yakusoku no Neverland | Information |
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Anime Name | Yakusoku no Neverland (The Promised Neverland) |
Author | Kaiu Shirai |
Illustrator | Posuka Demizu |
Serialized In | Shueisha’s Weekly Shōnen Jump |
Original Run | August 2016 – June 2020 |
Tankōbon Volumes | 20 |
English Publisher | Viz Media |
Anime Studio | CloverWorks |
Director | Mamoru Kanbe |
Music | Takahiro Obata |
Original Network | Fuji TV (Noitamina) |
English Network | Adult Swim (Toonami) |
First Season Run | January 2019 – March 2019 |
First Season Episodes | 12 |
Second Season Run | January 2021 – March 2021 |
Second Season Episodes | 11 |
Live-Action Film Adaptation | Released in December 2020 |
American Live-Action Series | In development by Amazon Studios |
Awards | Winner of the 63rd Shogakukan Manga Award in the shōnen category |
Manga Sales | Over 41 million copies in circulation (as of August 2022) |
Critical Reception | Well-received by critics for its storytelling, characters, and world-building; Season 1 considered one of the best |
Plot Summary | Follows a group of orphaned children planning their escape from a dark truth in their orphanage |
Setting Inspiration | Victorian England and European town planning |
Key Inspirations | Children’s folklore books, video games, Japanese folklore, European fairy tales, Naoki Urasawa’s Monster, Ghibli’s universe, etc. |
Key Themes | Survival, rebellion, coexistence of playfulness and darkness, reflections on society |
Yakusoku no Neverland is a story about an orphanage called Grace Field; the children there are brilliant and outstanding, especially the three oldest children here, Norman, Emma, and Ray. Thought this was simply an orphanage until Norman and Emma discover the horrifying truth about the true face of this Grace Field orphanage, one of the livestock farms, and the orphans are considered high-quality food products for the demons.
20. Jujutsu Kaisen
Jujutsu Kaisen | Information |
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Anime Name | Jujutsu Kaisen |
Author | Gege Akutami |
Genre | Adventure, Dark Fantasy, Supernatural |
Serialized in | Weekly Shōnen Jump |
Manga Volumes | 23 (as of July 2023) |
English Publisher | Viz Media |
Anime Studio | MAPPA |
Anime Seasons | 2 |
Anime Episodes | 26 |
Licensed by | Crunchyroll, Viz Media (home video rights), SA/SEA Medialink |
Original Network | JNN (MBS, TBS) |
English Dub | Yes |
Plot Summary | Follows high school student Yuji Itadori as he joins a secret organization of Jujutsu Sorcerers to eliminate a powerful Curse named Ryomen Sukuna, of whom Yuji becomes the host. |
Manga Sales | Over 80 million copies in circulation (including related novels and digital versions) |
Jujutsu Kaisen is an anime with a hilarious and bright initial appearance when the first part only focuses on describing the school life of the first and second-year magicians of the Curse Engineering High School in Tokyo, typically Itadori Yuuji, Fushiguro Megumi and Kugisaki Nobara. But when it comes to the second part, the plot is deepened into the darker side when the magicians take on the task in Shibuya laid out by Getou.
21. Shingeki no Kyojin (Attack on Titan)
Shingeki no Kyojin | Information |
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Anime Name | Shingeki no Kyojin (Attack on Titan) |
Author | Hajime Isayama |
Genre | Action, Dark Fantasy, Post-apocalyptic |
Serialized In | Bessatsu Shōnen Magazine |
Original Run | September 2009 – April 2021 |
Manga Volumes | 34 |
Anime Seasons | 4 |
First Season Air Date | April 2013 |
Final Season Air Date | December 2020 (Part 1), March 2023 (Part 2), Late 2023 (Part 3) |
Number of Episodes | 75 (Total) |
Critical and Commercial Success | Over 110 million manga copies in circulation |
Main Protagonist | Eren Yeager |
Setting | Humanity protected by walls from man-eating Titans |
Titans | Gigantic humanoids that threaten humanity |
ODM Gear | Equipment used for vertical maneuvering |
Titan Shifters | Nine Titans with the ability to transform |
True Nature of Titans | Revealed as transformed human beings |
Exploration of the World | Paradis Island, Marley, political unrest, and war |
Attack on Titan begins when the appearance of the Colossal Titan breaks through Maria’s wall and causes the Titan to flood in and kill all the people. Initially thought that Attack on Titan was simply a world for the survival of humanity in the end until the main character Eren Yeager discovered all the truth when he went down to the basement of his father, the people. The people of Eldia, a fearful and isolated world on an island walled off from the rest of the world, live within this wall.
22. Shin Seiki Evangelion (Neon Genesis Evangelion)
Shin Seiki Evangelion | Information |
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Anime Name | Shin Seiki Evangelion (Neon Genesis Evangelion) |
Genre | Apocalyptic, Mecha, Psychological drama |
Directed by | Hideaki Anno |
Produced by | Gainax, Tatsunoko |
Written by | Hideaki Anno, et al. |
Music by | Shirō Sagisu |
Studio | Gainax, Tatsunoko |
Licensed by | Netflix (worldwide streaming license), Madman Entertainment (AU), Anime Limited (BI), GKIDS (NA) |
Original network | TV Tokyo |
Original run | October 1995 – March 1996 |
Episodes | 26 |
Manga | Neon Genesis Evangelion (adaptation), Angelic Days, Shinji Ikari Raising Project, Campus Apocalypse, Petit Eva: Evangelion@School |
Light novel | Neon Genesis Evangelion: ANIMA |
Anime films | Revival of Evangelion, Death & Rebirth, The End of Evangelion, Rebuild of Evangelion series, 3.0+1.0 Thrice Upon a Time |
Setting | Futuristic fortified city of Tokyo-3, fifteen years after a worldwide cataclysm named Second Impact |
Protagonist | Shinji Ikari, a teenage boy recruited to pilot the bio-machine mecha Evangelion against the Angels |
Themes | Apocalyptic events, Psychological exploration, Mecha battles, Human relationships, Personal struggles |
Reception | Critical acclaim, record sales in Japanese and overseas markets, cultural impact |
Controversy | Unique and controversial ending, release of alternate ending film “The End of Evangelion” |
Influences | Draws from Shinto cosmology, Jewish and Christian mystical traditions, Freudian and Jungian psychoanalysis |
Main Characters | Shinji Ikari, Rei Ayanami, Asuka Langley Soryu, Misato Katsuragi, Gendo Ikari |
Unique Aspect | Deconstruction of the mecha genre, philosophical and religious symbolism |
Neon Genesis Evangelion is an anime series about an apocalyptic fantasy world that is attacked on Earth by strange alien beings carrying Angels. The main character is Ikari Shinji at the invitation of his father Ikari Gendo – the commander of the Nerv paramilitary facility – to the base under the instruction of Lieutenant Colonel Misato and he forces him to drive a biological machine called Evangelion to fight the Angels.
23. Dororo
Dororo | Information |
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Anime Name | Dororo |
Japanese Title | どろろ (Dororo) |
Genre | Action, Dark Fantasy, Historical Fantasy |
Manga | Written and Illustrated by Osamu Tezuka |
Original Run | August 1967 – October 1969 |
Anime Television Series | Dororo (1969), Dororo (2019) |
Video Game | Blood Will Tell (2004) |
Live-action Film | Dororo (2007) |
Remake Manga | The Legend of Dororo and Hyakkimaru (Dororo to Hyakkimaru-den) by Satoshi Shiki |
English Publisher | Vertical Inc. |
First Anime Series | Aired from April to September 1969, with a conclusive ending |
Second Anime Series | Aired from January to June 2019, produced by MAPPA and Tezuka Productions, available on Amazon Prime Video |
Directors | Akihiko Shiota (Live-action film), Kazuhiro Furuhashi (2019 anime series) |
Main Themes | “Kaen” (Opening theme for 2019 anime series) |
Production Studios | Mushi Productions (1969 anime series), MAPPA and Tezuka Productions (2019 anime series) |
English Release | English translation of manga by Vertical Inc., DVD release by Discotek Media |
Dororo is the story of a warlord Kagemitsu Daigo who makes a contract to exchange 48 body parts of his newly born son for demons in exchange for a peaceful land for the people. Fortunately, the child was picked up and raised by a prosthetic worker named Jukai, and Jukai devoted himself to making all the missing bodies for the boy and named him Hyakkimaru. After Hyakkimaru grew up, he began his journey to slay demons and regain his entire body.
24. Devilman: Crybaby
Devilman Crybaby | Information |
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Anime Name | Devilman: Crybaby |
Key Visual | Released in June 2017; text reads “Kill, as instinct” |
Genre | Action, Dark fantasy, Superhero |
Type | Original net animation |
Director | Masaaki Yuasa |
Producers | Aniplex, Dynamic Planning |
Studio | Science SARU |
Streaming Platform | Netflix |
Release Date | January 5, 2018 |
Episodes | 10 |
Based on | Go Nagai’s manga series Devilman |
Setting | Updated to the 21st century |
Plot | Akira Fudo and Ryo Asuka face ancient race of demons |
Themes | Anti-war, bigotry, manipulation, and paranoia allegory |
Reception | Widely discussed, acclaimed animation and soundtrack |
Controversy | Graphic content, divisive ending |
Music | Composed by Kensuke Ushio |
Opening Theme | “Man Human” by Denki Groove |
Ending Theme | “Konya Dake” (Tonight Only) by Takkyū to Tabibito (Ep. 9) |
Original Soundtrack | Two-disc, 48-track soundtrack released |
Additional Facts | – Directed by Masaaki Yuasa |
Devilman: Crybaby is a story revolving around the main character Akira Fudo who lives with his family with Miki Makimura. On one occasion, Akira meets Ryo – a friend from his childhood – and tells Akira that Ryo’s recent expedition to the Amazon rainforest has revealed the existence of demons. Still, the government and the world are blocking this information. Planning to expose the demons, Ryo took Akira to an underground nightclub and filmed the demons slaughtering humans but being attacked by a demon Amon.
25. Made in Abyss
Made in Abyss | Information |
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Anime Name | Made in Abyss |
Genre | Adventure, Dark fantasy, Science fiction |
Manga | Written by Akihito Tsukushi Published by Takeshobo English publisher: Seven Seas Entertainment Imprint: Bamboo Comics Magazine: Web Comic Gamma Demographic: Seinen Original run: October 20, 2012 – present Volumes: 11 (List of volumes) |
Anime Television Series | Directed by Masayuki Kojima Written by Hideyuki Kurata Music by Kevin Penkin Studio: Kinema Citrus Licensed by: Madman Entertainment (AUS), Sentai Filmworks (NA), MVM Entertainment (UK), Muse Communication (SA/SEA) Original network: AT-X, Tokyo MX, TVA, SUN, KBS, TVQ, STS, BS11 English network: Adult Swim (Toonami) Original run: July 7, 2017 – September 29, 2017 Episodes: 13 (List of episodes) |
Anime Film Series | Directed by Masayuki Kojima Written by Hideyuki Kurata Music by Kevin Penkin Studio: Kinema Citrus Licensed by: Sentai Filmworks (NA) Released: January 4, 2019 (part 1), January 18, 2019 (part 2) Runtime: 119 minutes (part 1), 108 minutes (part 2) |
Anime Film | Directed by Masayuki Kojima Written by Hideyuki Kurata Music by Kevin Penkin Studio: Kinema Citrus Licensed by: Madman Entertainment (AUS), Sentai Filmworks (BI/NA) Released: January 17, 2020 Runtime: 105 minutes |
Anime Television Series (Second Season) | Directed by Masayuki Kojima Written by Hideyuki Kurata Music by Kevin Penkin Studio: Kinema Citrus Licensed by: Sentai Filmworks Original network: AT-X, Tokyo MX, BS11, SUN, KBS, TVA, STS English network: Adult Swim (Toonami) Original run: July 6, 2022 – September 28, 2022 Episodes: 12 (List of episodes) |
Game | Made in Abyss: Binary Star Falling into Darkness Developer: Chime Corporation Publisher: Spike Chunsoft Genre: Action role-playing Engine: Unreal Engine 4 Platform: Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, Windows Released: JP: September 1, 2022, NA/EU: September 2, 2022 |
Anime and Manga Portal | Anime and manga portal |
Made in Abyss is a story about an orphan girl named Riko who lives in the Belchero Orphanage, located in the town of Orth on an island in the middle of the Beoluska Sea. The town of Orth besieged a giant hole that went deep into the earth, commonly known as the Abyss. The Abyss is a gathering place of strange creatures and also a place of rare relics from an ancient civilization, which later became a famous hunting ground for Cave Raiders, the common name for the brave explorers to delve into the Abyss.
26. Dorohedoro
Dorohedoro | Information |
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Anime Name | Dorohedoro |
Author | Q Hayashida |
Genres | Action, Dark fantasy, Science fantasy |
Manga | Published by Shogakukan |
English Publisher | Viz Media (NA) |
Original Run | November 30, 2000 – September 12, 2018 |
Volumes | 23 |
Anime TV Series | Produced by MAPPA |
Directed by | Yuichiro Hayashi |
Written by | Hiroshi Seko |
Music by | R.O.N ([K]NoW_NAME) |
Licensed by | Netflix |
Original Network | Tokyo MX, BS11, MBS |
Original Run (Anime) | January 12, 2020 – March 29, 2020 |
Episodes | 12 + 6 shorts |
Setting | Post-apocalyptic future with three realms: Hole, Sorcerers’ world, and Hell |
Distinct Species | Humans and sorcerers |
Sorcerers’ Abilities | Unique circulatory system producing “smoke” for magical powers |
Protagonist | Caiman, an amnesiac reptilian-headed individual |
Gang | The Cross-Eyes opposes sorcerers and provides black powder to weaker individuals |
Critics’ Reception | Praised for absorbing story, bold artwork, dark humor, and unique world-building |
Awards | Nominated for the 2021 Crunchyroll Anime Awards |
The main character of this Dorohedoro anime series is a man named Caiman who is searching for his true identity after a witch makes him bear the head of a reptile and has no memory of his previous life. Together with his friend Nikaido, he attacks the Hole witches, aiming to put their heads in his mouth, where a strange face emerges from his throat and judging whether the witch he has been biting must be the one responsible for his transformation or not.
27. Goblin Slayer
Goblin Slayer | Information |
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Anime Name | Goblin Slayer |
Author | Kumo Kagyu |
Illustrator | Noboru Kannatsuki |
Genre | Dark fantasy |
Original Run | February 15, 2016 – Present |
Light Novel Volumes | 16 |
Manga Adaptation | Yes |
Anime Television Series | Yes |
Anime Film | Goblin Slayer: Goblin’s Crown |
Spin-off Novels | Yes |
English Publisher | Yen Press |
Audio Drama CDs | Yes |
Video Game | Goblin Slayer – Endless Hunting |
Controversy | Content mis-rating and warning |
Second Season Announcement | Yes |
Second Season Studio | Liden Films |
Second Season Release Year | 2023 |
Manga Rankings | Reached 39th place on Oricon charts |
Controversies | Cited for adult content, bans in certain regions |
The tale of Goblin Slayer centers on a young priestess who encounters a horde of goblins for the first time while on an expedition with a rookie crew. They couldn’t carry out the quest smoothly because the goblins they faced in this quest were utterly contrary to what they knew from books and school. When the priestess’s companions were wiped out, a stranger appeared and saved her from the goblins.
28. Happy Sugar Life
Happy Sugar Life | Information |
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Anime Name | Happy Sugar Life |
Cover | Featuring Satō Matsuzaka |
Japanese Title | ハッピーシュガーライフ (Happī Shugā Raifu) |
Genres | Psychological horror, Psychological thriller, Yuri |
Manga | Written and illustrated by Tomiyaki Kagisora, Serialized in Square Enix’s Gangan Joker magazine (May 2015 – June 2019), Licensed by Yen Press, 11 volumes |
Anime TV Series | Directed by Keizō Kusakawa, Nobuyoshi Nagayama, Written by Touko Machida, Studio: Ezo’la |
Character Designs | Shōko Yasuda |
Music | Composed by Koichiro Kameyama |
Theme Songs | Opening: “One Room Sugar Life” by Akari Nanawo, Ending: “Sweet Hurt” by Reona |
Original Run | July 14, 2018 – September 29, 2018 |
Episodes | 12 |
Original Network | JNN (MBS, TBS, BS-TBS), AT-X |
Streaming Platform | Amazon Prime Video (worldwide) |
Isn’t it obvious from hearing the name that it’s a nice and cheerful existence in any case? But no, that’s life; the Happy Sugar Life opening episodes can open up looking beautiful but will “dark” over time until you realize the characteristics of this anime: pedophilia, domestic abuse, murder of people, erroneous thoughts, etc. This beauty is fake on the surface but incredibly ugly on the inside.
29. Gunslinger Girl
Gunslinger Girl | Information |
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Anime Name | Gunslinger Girl |
Genre | Girls with guns, Political thriller |
Manga | Written and illustrated by Yu Aida |
Manga Publication | Serialized in Dengeki Daioh magazine from May 2002 to September 2012 |
English Publisher | Licensed for North America release by Seven Seas Entertainment |
Anime Adaptation | Thirteen-episode anime series produced by Madhouse |
Anime Air Dates | Aired from October 9, 2003, to February 19, 2004 |
Anime Sequel | Sequel titled “Gunslinger Girl -Il Teatrino-” premiered in Japan in January 2008 |
Anime Episodes | Thirteen episodes for the main series, plus two additional OVAs |
Music | Original music composed by Toshihiko Sahashi and Kow Otani |
Studio | Animated by Madhouse (main series) and Artland (sequel) |
Licensing | Licensed by Crunchyroll for streaming and distribution |
Game Adaptation | PlayStation 2 game developed and published by Marvelous Entertainment |
Awards | Manga won Excellence Award at the Japan Media Arts Festival in 2012 |
Setting | Set in modern Italy, featuring young cybernetic girls trained as assassins by a government organization |
Fratello System | Girls paired with adult male handlers called “fratellos” who train and supervise them |
Conditioned Assassins | Brainwashing process known as “conditioning” creates highly skilled assassins loyal to their handlers |
Social Welfare Agency | Military organization specialized in counter-intelligence and counter-terrorism, disguised as a charity |
Counter-Terrorism | Agency’s Special Ops division combats the Padania Republic Faction, seeking an independent Northern Italy |
Manga Release | Licensed for English language release in North America by Seven Seas Entertainment |
Anime Release | Licensed and released in North America by Funimation Entertainment |
Video Game | Rail shooter video game adaptation for PlayStation 2 released in Japan |
Collaboration | Collaboration between the mobile game Girls’ Frontline and Gunslinger Girl, featuring crossover characters |
Imagine taking advantage of a group of teenage girls lying on a hospital bed and “saving” their lives to turn these girls into “murderers” for the government. That’s the story behind Gunslinger Girl. And each character is brainwashed and “tuned” to ensure they always obey orders. As you follow main characters like Henrietta, a soft-spoken girl, and Triella – the “oldest sister” of the group, you begin to empathize with their situation and what they’re going through.
30. Magical Girl Spec-Ops Asuka
Magical Girl SpecOps | Information |
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Anime Name | Magical Girl Spec-Ops Asuka |
Japanese Title | 魔法少女特殊戦あすか (Mahō Shōjo Tokushusen Asuka) |
Author | Makoto Fukami |
Illustrator | Seigo Tokiya |
Published by | Square Enix |
English Publisher | Seven Seas Entertainment |
Magazine | Monthly Big Gangan |
Demographic | Seinen |
Original Run | June 2015 – February 2021 |
Volumes | 14 (Tankōbon) |
English Release | 10 volumes released so far |
Anime Television Series | Directed by Hideyo Yamamoto; Animated by Liden Films |
Episodes | 12 |
Original Network | JNN (MBS, TBS, BS-TBS, CBC), AT-X |
Original Run (Anime) | January 12, 2019 – March 30, 2019 |
Licensed by | Crunchyroll-Funimation partnership |
Opening Theme | “Kodo” by Nonoc |
Ending Theme | “Rebel Flag” by Garnidelia |
Streaming Platform | Crunchyroll (English Sub); Funimation (English Dub); AnimeLab (Australia and New Zealand simulcast) |
Positive Review | Rebecca Silverman of Anime News Network gave an overall positive review, praising the genre potential |
Buzzword | “Magical spanking” from the eighth episode was listed in Gadget Tsūshin’s 2019 anime buzzwords list |
Like The Promised Neverland, Spec Ops Asuka is uncomfortably deep and makes you think about what’s going on. It disguises itself as the typical magical girl series, known for being cute, cuddly, and funny. And then everything closes. The way this grim reality has painted a picture and mental health issues that some characters have no option to deal with makes this one of the darkest anime we’ve seen.
31. Kiseijuu: Sei no Kakuritsu (Parasyte)
Kiseijuu Sei no | Information |
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Anime Name | Kiseijuu: Sei no Kakuritsu (Parasyte) |
Cover | Fourth tankōbon volume cover, featuring Shinichi Izumi and Migi |
Genre | Body horror, Horror thriller, Science fiction |
Manga | Manga |
Written by | Hitoshi Iwaaki |
Published by | Kodansha |
English publisher | Kodansha USA (currently), Tokyopop (former), Del Rey Manga (former) |
Magazine | Morning Open Zōkan (1988–1989), Monthly Afternoon (1990–1995) |
Demographic | Seinen |
Original run | 1988 – 1995 |
Volumes | 10 (List of volumes) |
Anime television series | Parasyte -the maxim- |
Directed by | Kenichi Shimizu |
Produced by | Toshio Nakatani, Hiroyuki Inage, Atsushi Kirimoto, Yuka Ōshima, Sōta Shioiri, Daisuke Fukada |
Written by | Shōji Yonemura |
Music by | Ken Arai |
Studio | Madhouse |
Licensed by | Hanabee (AUS), Sentai Filmworks (NA), Crunchyroll (UK) |
Original network | Nippon TV |
English network | Anime Network (NA), Animax (SEA), Adult Swim (Toonami, US) |
Original run | October 9, 2014 – March 26, 2015 |
Episodes | 24 (List of episodes) |
Live-action films | Parasyte: Part 1 (2014), Parasyte: Part 2 (2015) |
Spin-off manga | Parasyte Reversi |
Written by | Moare Ohta |
Published by | Kodansha |
English publisher | Kodansha USA |
Magazine | Comic Days |
Demographic | Seinen |
Original run | March 2, 2018 – May 7, 2021 |
Television drama | Parasyte: The Grey |
The film Parasyte is about morality, ethics, what it means to be human, the boundary between “right” and “wrong”, and several other profound topics. You will feel challenged intellectually because it makes you think about uncomfortable topics that everyday people seem to love to ignore. Because it is a hard pill to swallow.
32. Majin Tantei Nougami Neuro (Neuro: Supernatural Detective)
Majin Tantei Nougami | Information |
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Anime Name | Majin Tantei Nougami Neuro (Neuro: Supernatural Detective) |
Author | Yusei Matsui |
Genres | Occult detective |
Manga | Manga |
Published by | Shueisha |
Magazine | Weekly Shōnen Jump |
Original run | February 21, 2005 – April 20, 2009 |
Volumes | 23 |
Anime television series | Anime television series |
Directed by | Hiroshi Kōjina |
Produced by | Toshio Nakatani, Manabu Tamura |
Written by | Satoshi Suzuki |
Music by | Tomoki Hasegawa |
Studio | Madhouse |
Licensed by | Viz Media (North America) |
Original network | Nippon TV |
Original run | October 2, 2007 – March 25, 2008 |
Episodes | 25 |
Main Character | Neuro Nōgami, a demon who eats mysteries |
Central Plot | Neuro recruits high school student Yako Katsuragi to solve mysteries as a detective agency facade |
Manga Reception | Popular in Japan, frequently ranking in top ten best-selling manga lists |
Anime Reception | Criticized by fans for deviating from the original work and received low viewership |
Additional Media | Light novel, audio albums, video games, and merchandise |
Unique Elements | Combination of crime-solving and supernatural themes with black humor |
Majin Tantei Nougami Neuro revolves around Yako Katsuragi – a self-proclaimed high school detective. Despite her young age, she solved many large and small cases. There was hardly a case she hadn’t solved. But the secret to her talent for solving cases lies behind the walls of the detective’s office: The cases are solved by her assistants. That person is Neuro Nougami. However, Neuro is not an ordinary person; he is a demon.
33. Overlord
Overlord | Information |
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Title | Overlord |
Author | Kugane Maruyama |
Illustrator | so-bin |
Genre | Dark Fantasy, Isekai |
Serialized | 2010 – Present |
Light Novel Volumes | 16 |
Manga Adaptation | Yes |
Manga Volumes | 18 |
Anime TV Series | Yes |
Seasons | 4 seasons (52 episodes) |
Anime Films | 2 compilation films recapping the events of the first season |
Anime Film Series | An anime film covering the Holy Kingdom Arc has been announced |
Original Video Animation (OVA) | Yes |
Mobile Game | Overlord: Mass for the Dead |
Video Game | Overlord: Escape from Nazarick (Metroidvania game) |
Popularity | Over 7 million copies of light novels and manga combined in print |
Critical Reception | Praised as a “magnificent power fantasy” and relatable for MMORPG players |
The plot of this Overlord anime revolves around a witch named Momonga, who tries to stay in her favorite VR game even though the server is down. He later realized that the game world was still running when the servers were closed. Although this anime has many funny details, there are still very “dark” moments. Momonga is an anti-hero; he does not hesitate to use his tremendous power to destroy hundreds of other people for his purposes.
34. Two to Gensou no Grimgar (Grimgar of Fantasy And Ash)
Two to Gensou | Information |
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Anime Name | Two to Gensou no Grimgar (Grimgar of Fantasy And Ash) |
Light Novel Author | Ao Jūmonji |
Light Novel Illustrator | Eiri Shirai |
Light Novel Publisher | Overlap |
English Publisher (Light Novel) | J-Novel Club, Seven Seas Entertainment |
Light Novel Volumes | 19 + 2 extra |
Manga Author | Mutsumi Okubashi |
Manga Publisher | Square Enix |
English Publisher (Manga) | Yen Press |
Manga Volumes | 3 |
Anime Series Director | Ryosuke Nakamura |
Anime Series Producer | Masaya Saito, Naoki Harada, Shigetoshi Sato |
Anime Series Writer | Ryosuke Nakamura |
Anime Series Music | R.O.N ([K]NoW_NAME) |
Anime Series Studio | A-1 Pictures |
Anime Series Licensed by | Funimation (North America), Madman (Australia), Anime Limited (UK) |
Anime Series Original Network | AT-X, Tokyo MX, BS11, ABC |
Anime Series Original Run | January 11, 2016 – March 28, 2016 |
Anime Series Episodes | 12 + OVA |
Anime Series Opening Theme | “Knew day” by [K]NoW_NAME |
Anime Series Ending Theme | “Harvest” by [K]NoW_NAME |
OVA Title | Episode 2.5 |
OVA Release Date | March 16, 2016 |
OVA Length | 10 minutes |
Although this Grimgar of Fantasy And Ash anime series also has bright scenes, overall, it has a heavy plot. In the novel, a gang of youths is forced to engage in combat to survive and earn money. They do not know how they got there, do not know the laws of the new world, and do not recall how they got there. Of course, they didn’t know how to fight either, so to survive, they had to stick together.
35. Arifureta
Arifureta | Information |
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Anime Name | Arifureta: From Commonplace to World’s Strongest |
Genre | Fantasy, Harem, Isekai |
Light Novel | Written by Ryo Shirakome, Illustrated by Takayaki |
Published by | Shōsetsuka ni Narō |
Original Run | November 7, 2013 – September 2022 |
Volumes | 13 (List of volumes) |
Manga Adaptation | Illustrated by RoGa, Published by Overlap |
Manga Volumes | 11 (List of volumes) |
Prequel Light Novel | Arifureta: From Commonplace to World’s Strongest Zero |
Prequel Volumes | 6 (List of volumes) |
English Publication | J-Novel Club (light novel), Seven Seas Entertainment (manga) |
Studio | Asread, White Fox (Season 1), Studio Mother (Season 2) |
Original Run | July 8, 2019 – March 31, 2022 |
Episodes | 25 (Season 1), 13 (Season 2) + 4 OVAs |
Season 3 Announcement | Yes |
The main of this Arifureta anime series is a typical geek; he and his classmates are suddenly pushed through a fantasy world. And Hajime was the most useless person in the class, as his classmates all possessed some valuable skills. The storyline began to change when Hajime fell off the cliff and had to fight on his own; during this time, he had to face his weakness and renew himself to be strong enough to return.
36. Madoka Magica
Madoka Magica | Information |
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Anime Name | Puella Magi Madoka Magica |
Genres | Dark fantasy, Magical girl, Psychological thriller |
Created by | Magica Quartet |
Directed by | Akiyuki Shinbo, Yukihiro Miyamoto |
Produced by | Atsuhiro Iwakami (Aniplex), Yoshinao Doi (Nitroplus), Osamu Hosokawa (Hakuhodo DY), Kozue Kaneniwa (Movic), Ikuo Katō (Houbunsha), Hiroo Maruyama (MBS) |
Written by | Gen Urobuchi |
Music by | Yuki Kajiura |
Studio | Shaft |
Licensed by | Crunchyroll (NA), Aniplex of America |
Original network | JNN (MBS, TBS, CBC) |
English network | Neon Alley (NA) |
Original run | January 7, 2011 – April 21, 2011 |
Episodes | 12 |
Manga | Puella Magi Madoka Magica |
Madoka Magica is a classic movie about magical girls. The movie has created a tendency to trick you into believing it is a light-hearted magical movie. Things seem innocent until some episodes later, and things go downhill for the rest of the series. It’s dark, ugly, and endlessly ugly.
37. Ao No Exorcist (Blue Exorcist)
Ao No Exorcist | Information |
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Anime Name | Ao No Exorcist (Blue Exorcist) |
Author | Kazue Kato |
Genre | Dark Fantasy, Adventure |
Main Protagonist | Rin Okumura |
Main Setting | True Cross Academy, Assiah, Gehenna |
Premise | Rin discovers he is the son of Satan and enrolls at True Cross Academy |
Manga Publication | Serialized in Shueisha’s Jump Square |
Volumes | 29 |
English Publisher | Viz Media |
Anime TV Series | Aired from April to October |
Episodes | 25 + OVA |
Studio | A-1 Pictures |
Anime Film | Blue Exorcist: The Movie |
Second Season | Blue Exorcist: Kyoto Saga |
Popularity | Over 25 million manga copies in circulation |
Reception | Well-received by readers, boosted by the anime adaptation |
Dimensions | Blue Exorcist world consists of Assiah and Gehenna |
Exorcists | Trained individuals who protect Assiah from demonic threats |
Protagonist’s Goal | Rin Okumura aims to become an exorcist to defeat his father, Satan |
Influences | Inspired by the film “The Brothers Grimm,” features Biblical references |
Continuation | A third anime series adaptation has been announced |
The story of Ao No Exorcist revolves around Rin Okumura, who was raised by a famous Exorcist named Fujimoto Shirou. One day he discovers that he is the son of the devil Satan. At the same time, his twin brother Yukio Okumura did not inherit the demon’s powers but became a very powerful Exorcist after studying at True Cross. After his adoptive father passed away, Rin enrolled in True Cross Academy, where he had to conceal Satan’s strength to train to be an exorcist.
38. Ushio to Tora
Ushio to Tora | Information |
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Anime Name | Ushio to Tora |
Genre | Adventure, Dark fantasy, Supernatural |
Manga | Written by Kazuhiro Fujita, Published by Shogakukan |
Demographic | Shōnen |
Original Run | January 24, 1990 – October 23, 1996 |
Volumes | 33 + gaiden (List of volumes) |
Original Video Animation | Directed by Kunihiko Yuyama, Produced by Hiromu Takao, Tatsuo Ōba, Fumio Ueda |
Studio | Pastel |
Licensed by | ADV Films (North America) |
Episodes | 11 (OVA) |
Anime Television Series | Directed by Satoshi Nishimura, Produced by Hidenori Itahashi, Shinji Sekizawa, Shigeki Ozaki, Kazuo Ōnuki |
Music by | Eishi Segawa |
Studio | MAPPA, Studio VOLN |
Licensed by | Madman Entertainment (Australia), Sentai Filmworks (North America), Muse Communication (Southeast Asia), Manga Entertainment (United Kingdom) |
Original Network | Tokyo MX, Sun TV, KBS, TV Aichi, BS Fuji |
Original Run | July 3, 2015 – June 24, 2016 |
Episodes | 39 (List of episodes) |
Anime and Manga Portal | Anime and manga portal |
The story of Ushio to Tora revolves around the adventures and battles of Ushio Aotsuki, who discovers the secrets of the clan and then gets into trouble, spooky things, and a goblin that can make stealth like a tiger. In an unintended “incident,” Ushio removed the spear that pinned Tora to the wall (Tora had previously hinted that once the seal was released, the first thing he would do would be to eat Ushio and humans) due to Tora’s magic after being liberated from the cellar attracted other demons.
39. Hunter X Hunter
Hunter X Hunter | Information |
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Title | Hunter × Hunter |
Author | Yoshihiro Togashi |
Serialization | Weekly Shōnen Jump |
Manga Volumes | 37 (Ongoing) |
Anime Adaptations | 2 Television Series, 3 OVAs |
Television Series Episodes | 62 (1999-2001), 148 (2011-2014) |
OVAs Episodes | 30 (2002-2004) |
Genre | Adventure, Fantasy, Martial arts |
Protagonist | Gon Freecss |
Premise | Young boy Gon sets out to become a Hunter and find his father, a renowned Hunter |
Themes | Exploration, Friendship, Adventure, Supernatural abilities |
World-building | Hunters Association, Nen (life energy/aura), Chimera Ants |
Success | One of the best-selling manga series of all time with over 84 million copies in circulation |
English Release | Manga and anime licensed and released by Viz Media |
Nen Abilities | Six types: Enhancers, Emitters, Manipulators, Transmuters, Conjurers, and Specialists |
Hunter Examination | Rigorous annual examination to become a licensed Hunter |
Dark Continent | Forbidden and unexplored vast area outside the known world |
Major Arcs | Hunter Exam, Yorknew City, Chimera Ant, Greed Island, Chairman Election, Succession War |
Hunter X Hunter about the story after accidentally discovering that his father, Ging Freecss is still alive and is a great Hunter, the boy Gon resolves to leave Whale Island to go to the Hunter exam and find his father. At the competition, Gon quickly befriends three important friends, Kurapika, Leorio, and Killua. The four main characters’ exploits comprise the bulk of the narrative, particularly the bond between Gon and Killua.
40. Yu Yu Hakusho
Yu Yu Hakusho | Information |
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Anime Name | YuYu Hakusho |
Author | Yoshihiro Togashi |
Genres | Adventure, Martial arts, Supernatural |
Manga | Written by Yoshihiro Togashi; Published by Shueisha; English publisher: Viz Media; Imprint: Jump Comics; Serialized in Weekly Shōnen Jump from December 1990 to July 1994; Consists of 19 volumes; Over 78 million copies in circulation worldwide by 2022 |
Anime television series | Directed by Noriyuki Abe; Produced by Ken Hagino, Kenji Shimizu, Kōji Kaneda, Kyōtarō Kimura; Written by Yukiyoshi Ōhashi; Music by Yusuke Honma; Studio: Pierrot; Licensed by Crunchyroll, Medialink; Original network: Fuji TV; English network: Cartoon Network, Animax Asia, Adult Swim, Funimation Channel; Aired from October 1992 to December 1994; 112 episodes |
Original video animation | Eizou Hakusho: Directed by Noriyuki Abe; Written by Shigeru Chiba; Music by Yusuke Honma; Studio: Pierrot; Licensed by Crunchyroll, Medialink; Released from September 1994 to February 1996; Consists of 6 episodes |
Original video animation | Two Shot & All or Nothing: Directed by Noriyuki Abe; Produced by Ken Hagino; Studio: Pierrot; Licensed by Crunchyroll, Medialink; Released in October 2018; Consists of 2 episodes |
Related | List of Yu Yu Hakusho films |
Overview | YuYu Hakusho is a popular manga series written and illustrated by Yoshihiro Togashi. It combines adventure, martial arts, and supernatural elements in its storytelling. The manga was serialized in Weekly Shōnen Jump from December 1990 to July 1994, spanning 19 volumes with over 78 million copies in circulation worldwide. The anime television series, directed by Noriyuki Abe and produced by Pierrot, aired from October 1992 to December 1994, totaling 112 episodes. Additionally, there are original video animations, including Eizou Hakusho and Two Shot & All or Nothing. The franchise has garnered a significant following, and its success is attributed to its captivating characters and engaging storyline. |
Yu Yu Hakusho follows Yusuke Urameshi, a street gangster who dies while pushing a baby out of the way of an oncoming car. Botan tells Yusuke that the spirit world has been shocked by his bravery and is ill-prepared to absorb his spirit. So, Koenma, son of Enma, gave Yusuke a chance to re-enter his body with tests. After he was reincarnated, Koenma entrusted him with the task of detective of the spirit world.
41. God Eater
God Eater | Information |
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Anime Name | God Eater |
Genre | Action role-playing |
Developer | Shift |
Publisher | Bandai Namco Entertainment |
Platform | PlayStation Portable, PlayStation Vita, PlayStation 4, Microsoft Windows, Nintendo Switch, Android, iOS |
First Release | February 4, 2010 |
Latest Release | February 8, 2019 |
Production Studio | Ufotable |
Director | Takayuki Hirao |
Music | Gō Shiina |
Episodes | 13 |
Original Run | July 12, 2015 – March 26, 2016 |
Based on | God Eater video game series |
Main Protagonist | Lenka Utsugi |
Setting | Post-apocalyptic world overrun by creatures known as Aragami |
Plot | God Eater follows a group of individuals known as God Eaters, who wield powerful weapons called God Arcs to combat the Aragami and save humanity. |
Reception | Positive reviews for its animation, action sequences, and soundtrack. |
Sequel | God Eater Resonant Ops (mobile game) |
Manga Adaptation | God Eater: The Spiral Fate |
Novel Adaptation | God Eater: After Burst |
Continuation | God Eater Resonant Rage (upcoming game) |
Additional Media | Soundtracks, light novel adaptations |
Mobile Game Spin-Off | God Eater Mobile |
God Arc Forms | Blade Form, Gun Form, Shield Form |
Unique Features | “Predator Form” and “Burst Mode” |
Equipment Customization | Blades, Shield, Gun, Control Unit |
God Eater Universe Year | 2071 |
Antagonist | Aragami creatures made of “Oracle Cells” |
God Eater Weapon | Jinki (God Arc) |
God Eaters’ Abilities | Super-strength, enhanced speed |
God Eater Anime Release | July 12, 2015 |
Availability | Streamed on Netflix |
When the Aragami man-eating creatures appeared, humanity was thrust into a battle for survival. Ordinary weapons did not affect these monsters, so a unique organization called Fenrir was formed. This organization plays a vital role in the war because of its weapons. They are dubbed “God Eaters” and can only be used by those who have been infused with Oracle. Lenka Utsugi considers himself a God Eater, although his “God Arc” is both a gun and a blade.
42. Fate/Apocrypha
Fate Apocrypha | Information |
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Anime Name | Fate/Apocrypha |
Original Run | July 2, 2017 – December 30, 2017 |
Studio | A-1 Pictures |
Director | Yoshiyuki Asai |
Writer | Yuuichirou Higashide |
Music | Masaru Yokoyama |
Character Design | Yuukei Yamada |
Art Design | Kazuhiro Inoue |
Kanji | フェイト/アポクリファFate/Apocrypha 第12.5話「聖杯大戦開幕編」Fate/Apocrypha 第19.5話「聖杯大戦動乱編」 |
Romaji | Feito/Apokurifa |
Soundtrack | Composed by Masaru Yokoyama |
Light Novel | “Fate/Apocrypha: Side of Survivor” by Yuuichirou Higashide |
Fate/Apocrypha about two groups participated in battle for the Holy Grail – the magical tribe Yggdmillennia against the rest of the Magic Association’s tribes. Each side throws out seven master-servant pairs; the side that loses all its warriors first will have the Holy Grail stolen. What will happen in this peculiar Holy Grail war?
43. Yuuki Yuuna wa Yuusha de Aru (Yuki Yuna Is A Hero)
Yuuki Yuuna wa | Information |
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Title | Yuki Yuna is a Hero (結城友奈は勇者である, Yūki Yūna wa Yūsha de Aru) |
Created by | Takahiro |
Produced by | Studio Gokumi |
Directed by | Seiji Kishi |
Aired | October 17 – December 26, 2014 |
Licensing | Licensed by Pony Canyon’s North American label Ponycan USA |
Light Novels | Multiple light novel series published by ASCII Media Works |
Manga Adaptation | Manga adaptations by various artists |
Video Game | PlayStation Vita game released in February 2015 |
Visual Novel | Visual novel for Windows released in December 2014 with the first DVD and Blu-ray Disc volume for the anime |
Second Season | Second season project consisting of an adaptation of a prequel light novel and a sequel series |
Smartphone Game | Smartphone game launched in 2017 and received a short anime series titled Yuki Yuna is a Hero: Churutto! |
Third Season | Third anime season aired between October and December 2021 |
Setting | Takes place in the fictional city of Sanshu, based on the real-life city of Kan’onji in Kagawa Prefecture |
Plot | Yuna and her friends transform into “heroes” with magical powers to protect their world from imminent destruction |
Yuki Yuna Is A Hero revolves around Yuuna Yuuki trying to become a superhero every day, especially since she needs to be worthy of being a member of the Hero Club in high school. But a mysterious creature, Vertexes, suddenly appears to threaten the world’s peace; the Heroes Club realizes that perhaps they must become the real heroes! Other club members include Yuuna’s best friends, Mimori Tougou, Fuu, and Itsuki Inubouzaki.
44. Kuroshitsuji (Black Butler)
Kuroshitsuji | Information |
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Anime Name | Kuroshitsuji (Black Butler) |
Author/Illustrator | Yana Toboso |
Serialized In | Monthly GFantasy (Square Enix) |
Genre | Dark fantasy, Supernatural |
Main Protagonist | Ciel Phantomhive, the 12-year-old Earl of Phantomhive |
Setting | Victorian-era London |
Plot | Ciel seeks revenge on those who tortured him and murdered his parents |
Demon Butler | Sebastian Michaelis, disguised as Ciel’s butler |
Manga Volumes | 32 (as of July 2023) |
Anime Adaptation Studio | A-1 Pictures |
First Season Airing | October 2008 to March 2009 |
Second Season Airing | July to September 2010 (anime-original storyline) |
Black Butler: Book of Circus Airing | July to September 2014 |
Black Butler: Book of Murder (OVA) | October and November 2014 theatrical release |
Live-Action Film Release | January 2014 in Japan |
Animated Film Release | Black Butler: Book of the Atlantic premiered in January 2017 |
Upcoming Season | Fourth season scheduled for release in 2024 |
North American Licensing | Yen Press (manga), Funimation (anime) |
Manga Copies in Circulation | Over 34 million copies (as of July 2023) |
The story of Kuroshitsuji revolves around the Phantomhive Family for many generations as “cleaners” in the shadow of the British Royal Family. The current owner of the Phantomhive family is Ciel Phantomhive, a 12-year-old boy with a rather cold personality. Ciel is the manager of Phantomhive’s business and the one who makes it even better. Serving Ciel is the butler, Sebastian Michaels. Sebastian is a talented, near-perfect butler who can do almost anything; for some reason, he is fiercely loyal to Ciel.
45. Ajin (Ajin: Demi-Human)
Ajin | Information |
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Anime Name | Ajin (Ajin: Demi-Human) |
Author | Gamon Sakurai |
Serialized in | Good! Afternoon (Kodansha) |
English Release | Licensed by Vertical |
Anime Film Trilogy | Directed by Hiroaki Andō, Written by Hiroshi Seko, Animation by Polygon Pictures |
Anime Television Series | Directed by Hiroaki Andō, Written by Hiroshi Seko, Produced by Polygon Pictures |
Live-Action Film | Directed by Katsuyuki Motohiro |
Protagonist | Nagai Kei, a student who discovers he is an “Ajin” with immortality and regenerative abilities |
Black Ghosts | Powerful combat-oriented entities visible only to Ajin |
Public Perception | Ajin considered dangerous and inhuman, subjected to government experiments |
Antagonist | Satou, an escaped Ajin seeking revenge against governments |
Manga Awards | Listed as a nominee in the Tezuka Osamu Cultural Prize and the Kodansha Manga Awards |
Manga Popularity | Over 4 million copies in print |
Original Run | Manga: July 6, 2012 – February 5, 2021 |
Anime Release | Film Trilogy: November 2015 – September 2016; Television Series: January 2016 – December 2016; Live-Action Film: September 2017 |
An immortal being called Ajin first appeared on Earth 17 years ago in Africa. Afraid of what these extraordinary people might do, society began a campaign to eliminate Ajin and capture and banish them from the country. However, these events did not seem to reach Kei Nagai’s mind. But one day, after being hit by a truck, he discovers that he is an Ajin! In his escape from acquaintances and the government, Kei is forced to find a new future to keep moving forward.
46. Houseki no Kuni (Land of the Lustrous)
Houseki no Kuni | Information |
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Anime Name | Houseki no Kuni (Land of the Lustrous) |
Japanese Title | 宝石の国(Hōseki no Kuni) |
Genre | Action, Fantasy, Post-apocalyptic |
Mangaka | Haruko Ichikawa |
Publisher | Kodansha |
English Publisher | NA Kodansha Comics |
Magazine | Monthly Afternoon |
Demographic | Seinen |
Original Run | October 2012 – Present |
Volumes | 12 (Ongoing) |
Anime Television Series | Land of the Lustrous (2017) |
Plot Summary | Set in a distant future after Earth has been ravaged by meteorites, the story follows Phosphophyllite (Phos), a seemingly weak and useless jewel person, as they embark on a journey of self-discovery and personal growth. Phos seeks the help of their aloof colleague Cinnabar while defending their way of life against the Lunarians who covet their precious bodies. |
Awards and Recognition | Ranked 10th on Takarajimasha’s Kono Manga ga Sugoi! list of top 20 Manga for Male Readers survey. Nominated for the eighth Manga Taishō award. Ranked 19th in the first Next Manga Award in the print manga category. |
Houseki no Kuni is set in a setting where people known as Gems must fight against the “Lunarias” to survive. Each Gem is associated with a different purpose. Phosphophyllite was commissioned to compile an encyclopedia for Gems. At first, she thought this was just a simple job, but she quickly realized it was much more stressful than expected. Gems are a mystery, hidden in the dark from the outside world.
47. Fullmetal Alchemist
Fullmetal Alchemist | Information |
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Anime Name | Fullmetal Alchemist |
Author | Hiromu Arakawa |
Genres | Adventure, Dark Fantasy, Steampunk |
Manga | Manga |
Written by | Hiromu Arakawa |
Published by | Enix, Square Enix |
English publisher | Madman Entertainment (AUS), Viz Media (NA), Yen Press (digital), Chuang Yi (SG) |
Imprint | Gangan Comics |
Magazine | Monthly Shōnen Gangan |
Demographic | Shōnen |
Original run | July 2001 – June 2010 |
Volumes | 27 |
Light novel | Light novel |
Written by | Makoto Inoue |
Illustrated by | Hiromu Arakawa |
Published by | Square Enix |
English publisher | Viz Media (NA) |
Anime television series | Fullmetal Alchemist (2003–04), Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood (2009–10) |
Films | Conqueror of Shamballa (2005), The Sacred Star of Milos (2011) |
Live-action film | Fullmetal Alchemist (2017), Fullmetal Alchemist: The Revenge of Scar (2022), Fullmetal Alchemist: The Last Transmutation (2022) |
Manga Sales | Over 80 million volumes worldwide |
Awards | Shogakukan Manga Award (shōnen category), UK’s Eagle Award for favorite manga, Seiun Award for best science fiction comic |
Setting | Fictional country of Amestris in a steampunk world inspired by the European Industrial Revolution |
Main Characters | Edward Elric, Alphonse Elric |
Plot | Two alchemist brothers seek the Philosopher’s Stone to restore their bodies after a failed alchemical experiment |
Anime Adaptations | Fullmetal Alchemist (2003–04), Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood (2009–10) |
Other Adaptations | Light novels, original video animations, video games, merchandise |
Manga Localization | Viz Media localized the manga in English |
Legacy | Highly acclaimed for character development, action scenes, symbolism, and philosophical references |
Fullmetal Alchemist revolves around two brothers, Edward and Alphonse Elric, who lost their mother to an illness. With the desire to revive their mother, the two brothers violated the taboo of Alchemy – Human Transmutation and had to pay a heavy price. Alphonse lost his entire body, while Edward lost his left leg. Ed was given prosthetic limbs—automail—by Winry and Mrs. Pinako Rockbell to enable him to continue his search for the fabled Philosopher’s Stone, which would allow him to reclaim his brother’s body and regenerate his own.
48. Mahoutsukai no Yome (The Ancient Magus’ Bride)
Mahoutsukai no Yome | Information |
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Anime Name | The Ancient Magus’ Bride |
Author | Kore Yamazaki |
Genres | Dark Fantasy, Romance, Supernatural, Slice of Life |
Serialized in | Mag Garden’s Monthly Comic Garden magazine |
Licensed in North America | Seven Seas Entertainment |
Prequel Anime OVA | Three-part OVA produced by Wit Studio titled “The Ancient Magus’ Bride: Those Awaiting a Star” |
Anime Television Series | Aired from October 2017 to March 2018 |
Second Original OVA Series | Three-part OVA series titled “The Ancient Magus’ Bride: The Boy from the West and the Knight of the Blue Storm” |
Second Season | Second season of the anime premiered in April 2023 |
Main Protagonist | Chise Hatori, an orphaned Japanese high school student sold at an auction to Elias Ainsworth |
Art and Animation Studio | Wit Studio, Studio Kafka |
Music Composer | Junichi Matsumoto |
Awards | Winner of the Best Drama Award at the Crunchyroll Anime Awards |
Manga Adaptation | Manga adaptation written and illustrated by Kore Yamazaki |
Number of Volumes | 19 volumes in total (ongoing) |
Spin-off Manga | “The Ancient Magus’ Bride: Jack Flash and the Faerie Case Files” and “The Ancient Magus’ Bride: Wizard’s Blue” |
Stage Play | Stage play adaptation at the Owlspot Theater in Tokyo |
Sales | Over 3 million copies sold |
Critical Reception | Positive reviews for art, character development, and storytelling |
Mahoutsukai no Yome is about a 15-year-old woman who decides to sell her body at an auction school after a series of unfortunate events leave Chise Hatori in a lonely and useless state. She wondered which “home” would “welcome” her. A mysterious man named Elias Ainsworth bought her for a hefty price and quickly brought her to his home in the English countryside.
49. Gantz
Gantz | Information |
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Anime Name | Gantz |
Author | Hiroya Oku |
Genres | Action, Psychological Horror, Psychological Thriller, Science Fiction |
Manga Publisher | Shueisha |
English Publisher | Dark Horse Comics |
Studio | Gonzo |
Anime Director | Ichiro Itano |
Number of Episodes | 26 |
Original Run | April 13, 2004 – November 18, 2004 |
Live-action Films | Gantz (2011), Gantz: O (2016) |
Spin-offs | Gantz: G (2015–17), Gantz: E (2020–present) |
Main Characters | Kei Kurono, Masaru Kato |
Plot | Gantz follows the story of Kei Kurono and Masaru Kato, who are brought back to life after a train accident and forced to participate in a game where they hunt and kill aliens. Equipped with futuristic weapons, they must complete missions to earn points and revive their deceased friends. The series explores their struggles and character development. |
Gantz carries the story of two friends, Kei Kurono and Masaru Kato, who died to save a man. After the death of both friends, they find themselves locked in a room. Kei and Masaru were surprised to learn that they weren’t the only ones in the room. Recently several others have died. In the room, they find a black orb “Gantz”. Gantz opened, and an inscription appeared in front of them. The text tells the dead that they must kill the aliens within a limited time.
50. D. Gray-Man
D Gray Man | Information |
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Anime Name | D.Gray-man |
Author | Katsura Hoshino |
Genres | Adventure, Dark Fantasy, Supernatural |
Publication | Weekly Shōnen Jump, Jump Square, Jump SQ.Crown, Jump SQ.Rise |
Storyline | Set in an alternate 19th century, D.Gray-man follows Allen Walker, a young exorcist who joins the Black Order, an organization of exorcists. They use Innocence, a powerful substance, to fight against the Millennium Earl and his demonic army of Akuma, aiming to destroy humanity. |
Manga Volumes | 28 (ongoing) |
Light Novel | D.Gray-man: Reverse (3 volumes) |
Anime Adaptations | D.Gray-man (103 episodes) D.Gray-man Hallow (13 episodes) |
Production Studio | TMS Entertainment |
Music | Kaoru Wada |
Licensed by | AUS: Madman Entertainment, NA: Viz Media (manga), Funimation (anime), UK: Manga Entertainment, NA: Crunchyroll (D.Gray-man Hallow) |
Original Network | TV Tokyo |
English Network | SEA: Animax Asia, US: Funimation Channel |
Sales | Over 25 million copies sold (manga) Top-selling volumes in Japan and North America One of Shueisha’s best-selling manga titles |
Critical Reception | Praised for its originality and well-developed characters Positive reviews for Hoshino’s artwork, particularly character designs and Gothic elements Some critics found fight sequences difficult to follow |
Themes | Supernatural, Exorcism, Good vs. Evil, Redemption |
Additional Content | Spin-off novel series: D.Gray-man: Reverse by Kaya Kizaki Video games based on the series have been released |
D. Gray-Man is the story of a boy named Allen Walker, who is only fifteen years old but can transform arms into large claws. Allen became an exorcist and joined the Black Order. The Black Order orders Allen to find the most innocent to win the war against the Earl of the Millennium. Earl created the mechanical machine “Akuma” to destroy humanity. Both sides in the war are looking for the most innocent heart, and whoever finds it first wins the fight.