Best dark anime series is a vast list to narrow down but we’re no strangers to a challenge. Going through an edgy or emo phase? Been too happy lately? Here are some of the best dark anime series that will bring you right back to grim reality. We’ve tried to be fair by picking both popular and underrated titles so make sure to give them all a try and see what floats your boat.
Attack on Titan
Attack on Titan is hailed as the darkest shonen to the point it’s considered seinen because of its ruthless setting and damaged, realistic characters. The anime progressively gets darker and darker and is perhaps the only anime on this list that has an unconventional protagonist (you just have to wait for it). There’s a reason it’s one of the highest-rated dark anime series of all time and the only anime with over 90% of its episodes being rated above 9.5
Death Note
Death Note cooked once and became the standard for dark anime series- especially psychological thrillers. While most would have it at the top of their list, we put it near the end because it is a classic and it’s got enough praise in its name already. That said, the first time L appears and vibe-checks Light- we’ll remember that forever as one of the most iconic moments in anime.
Claymore
Ever dreamt of what Berserk would look like with proper animation and direction? Claymore is essentially a toned-down version of it with an all-female cast. It’s not exactly just dark and gritty but simply bleak and looming. The story is a tragic one and even though the action is good, it’s better you brace for the consequences of it. This is an underrated anime and thus it is featured here cuz it deserves to be on this list of dark anime series.
Ajin
For starters, Ajin is a 3D anime with 2D elements. It can take time getting used to but once you’re familiar, it’s one of the best dark anime series in the psychological thriller genre. The anime deals with themes of monstrosity, identity, evil, necessity, and so on- and we just hope the protagonist gets some respite from all the mess he’s dragged into.
Psycho-Pass
Psycho-Pass is the first anime recommendation you’ll hear when looking for psychological thrillers after you’re done with the likes of Death Note. Psycho-Pass is a psychological social thriller with themes of identity, morality, social right, and wrong, personal will, freedom, and justice. You’re going to love this dark anime series if you’re a student of psychology, sociology, computers, or even science as this has heavy sci-fi elements too.
Hellsing Ultimate
This is the only dark anime series with a comfortable level of blood and gore- and none of it is forced because it feels natural to the plot, story and setting of this story. There are vampires and paladins in this one and couple that with everyone speaking hard sexy british accent and you’ve got youself one of the best vampire-themed dark fantasies in all of anime.
Baccano!
Baccano is one of those dark anime series that keeps you guessing till the very end. You start the anime by following several characters and factions including immortals, master thieves, gangsters and vampires for starters. Several of them have main-character energy because they are all main characters in their own enclosed narrative which just happens to weave and intertwine with the destinies of others. It’s a fun watch- but also dark.
Terror in Resonance
Terror in Resonance has stood the test of time to remain one of the most critically acclaimed dark anime series because of its poignant storytelling and palpable characters. Despite its bleak setting and premise, the anime shines with its psychological thriller narrative because of its emotional core and themes. This is a must-watch for all dark anime series enjoyers.
Chainsaw Man
Chainsaw Man is a dark anime series that’s part of the Dark Triad of Shonen. With only one season of 12 episodes, this managed to climb the ranks to be one of the darkest, most gruesome stories in anime. It expertly juxtaposes comedy with blood and gore- giving this show an unsettling and eerie feel despite its mainstream battle shonen appeal demographic.
Fate/Zero
In our personal opinion, this tops the list of dark anime series. Fate/Zero is the only anime on this list that makes you feel hopeless, helpless, and desperate for a hero or salvation in its story but it doesn’t give you that. Blood and action aside, what makes this anime the darkest of all is because of its characters- their philosophies and their stories- nobody wins except the evil in this anime.
- Also Read: Top 5 Most Horror Animes of All Time
Since the topic is dark anime series, we recommend you take your time with most of these except the ultra-popular battle shonen picks. They take a heavy toll on your mental and emotional states so it’s best to be prepared before you start any of them.
