Anime is often considered a wholesome genre of entertainment, typically associated with light and heartwarming content. However, this classification completely crumbles when you delve into the world of dark anime.
Each year, unsettling, grief-inducing, and downright horrifying anime emerge, crafted to elicit intense reactions from viewers. Dark anime has existed as long as the medium itself, and we're here to share with you the five most gut-wrenchingly horrifying ones.
If you can't stomach gore, it's time to click away. This list isn't for the faint of heart, but if you're up for it, let's dive in!
5) Parasite
An evil race of parasites sets Earth as their next target, infecting as many humans as possible. These parasites take over the hosts, manipulating humans to conquer the entire planet. The way they infiltrate the body is pretty disgusting, and their actions with the human hosts will leave you feeling extremely uneasy. Despite the discomfort, the adrenaline-packed action ensures you'll have a gripping time!
4) Attack on Titan
Arguably the best anime of all time across genres, the initial seasons of Attack on Titan are incredibly horrific, especially for those unaccustomed to dark shows.
Giant humanoid monsters devour humans in the most horrifying ways imaginable. It's a must-watch, albeit spine-chilling.
3) Neon Genesis Evangelion
A cult classic for valid reasons, Evangelion tackles issues like anxiety, depression, and suicide in an eerie manner. The premise involves angels – divine creatures seeking humanity's destruction.
While humans fight back with mechs, this isn't your typical action anime. The last episode is notorious for its overwhelming sadness, making it a 25-episode journey every anime fan should experience at least once.
2) Shiki
Set in a remote village plagued by a strange epidemic, Shiki navigates the population's struggles as many succumb to the mysterious illness. The anime handles the epidemic exceptionally well, delving into themes of moral ambiguity and societal paranoia.
1) Berserk
Arguably the best dark anime of all time, Berserk's impact transcends anime into movies and video games. It follows the lone mercenary Guts as he traverses a medieval world filled with horrors – both human and supernatural.
The gore and horrifying elements may not be suitable for everyone, and the animation style adds an extra layer of eeriness. If you're seeking hard-hitting, dark medieval fantasy, Berserk is the way to go!
And that's all we have for today. Have you seen any of these anime? We hope we've introduced you to at least one new show to watch this weekend. Until next time, have a great day!