Do you enjoy a good revenge anime with a thrilling plot? If so, get ready to dive into the dark and intense world of anime, where the protagonist who has been betrayed rises again to seek revenge. This genre deals with a lot of complex emotions like anger, sadness, and the drive for justice.
In this post, we are featuring the 30 best anime series where the main character experiences betrayal. They are forced to delve deeper within themselves and find the strength to continue fighting.
Think about a world where the main character is righteous, loyal, and dedicated. Their trust is suddenly shattered by the person they consider closest to their heart. Their heart is hurting, but they must pick up the pieces and come back much stronger. These anime are all about retribution and the lengths a person will go to get it.
Are you ready to be inspired by characters who refuse to give up, even in the face of adversity? Below are the 30 best anime series where the main character was betrayed but returned to seek justice, sometimes in a dark and twisted way.
1. Tower of God
A tower has the ability to summon individuals, referred to as “Regulars,” by offering them their most sought-after desires. They can be material possessions like wealth or fame, or something even greater, which awaits those who manage to reach the top.
Bam, who had lived in a dark cave with only dirty cloth and an unreachable light for company, has his life changed when he meets a girl named Rachel. She teaches him about the world beyond his cave, but their friendship is cut short when Rachel decides to leave and climb the tower.
Determined to follow her, Bam sets his sights on the tower, and something unexpected happens – he opens its gates himself. As a result, he becomes known as an “Irregular,” a term given to those who disrupt the tower’s balance simply by being there. And so, the journey of a young boy who was not chosen by the tower but opened it himself begins.
Also Read: 10 Anime Similar To Tower of God That You Should Watch
2. Rising of the Shield Hero
Four ordinary men are summoned to the kingdom of Melromarc to become its heroes and save it from the Waves of Catastrophe that have caused devastation for centuries. The men are each given a weapon – a sword, spear, bow, or shield – to defeat the Waves. Naofumi Iwatani is designated as the “Shield Hero,” but he is looked down upon for his weak offense and lack of charisma compared to the other heroes.
Despite the mistreatment he receives, Naofumi trains with the only person willing to help him, Malty Melromarc. However, he is betrayed by her and falsely accused of taking advantage of her, causing him to become hated and discriminated against by the people of Melromarc. With a heart filled with anger and mistrust, Naofumi sets out to prove his innocence and strengthen himself.
3. Dororo
The land controlled by the greedy samurai lord, Daigo Kagemitsu, is on the brink of destruction. He will stop at nothing to gain more power, even if it means turning his back on Buddha and striking a deal with demons. The 12 demons hear his pleas and grant him their power, but when Kagemitsu’s first-born son is born, the infant lacks limbs, skin, eyes, ears, and a nose. Yet, he manages to survive.
The child is cast into a river and forgotten. He is saved by a man who gives him prosthetics and weapons to survive the world. As the boy grows, he must take on the demons that took him as a sacrifice and defeat them one by one, regaining what was taken from him. After many years of wandering alone, he meets a young orphan boy named Dororo, and the unlikely duo must band together to survive in a ruthless, demon-filled world.
Also Read: Anime Similar To Dororo That You Should Watch
4. Code Geass
The Holy Empire of Britannia rises to become a dominant military power in the year 2010. It begins its reign with the conquest of Japan. The defeated nation is renamed Area 11 and experiences ongoing resistance from the people in an effort to regain independence.
Lelouch Lamperouge, a student from Britannia, finds himself caught in the crossfire between Britannian forces and the Area 11 rebels. However, he manages to escape with the help of a mysterious girl named C.C., who gives him the power of Geass, a psychic power also known as the “Power of Kings.” Lelouch realizes the immense potential of this power, which allows him to command absolute obedience.
He decides to take on the mantle of Zero, a masked vigilante. Fueled by his desire for revenge, Lelouch uses the Japanese rebellion as a means to an end. The empire killed his mother in the past and left his sister blinded, and this tragedy left Lelouch with a deep-seated hatred towards the Royal Family.
Also Read: 10 Best Geass In Code Geass That Are Completely Epic
5. Redo of Healer
Redo of Healer is a fantasy harem anime, making it unsuitable for younger audiences! Keyaru was blessed with healing powers and seemed destined for greatness as a Hero. However, his path was far from glorious, as he was subjected to countless years of terrible torture and abuse. But through his healing abilities, Keyaru was able to gather the memories and skills of those he treated, gradually becoming stronger than anyone else.
By the time he reached his full potential, it was too late to change his fate. With the goal of reclaiming his life, Keyaru cast a spell that rewound time to before his suffering began. Armed with the memories of his past agony, he sets out to exact revenge on those who wronged him and to fulfill a new purpose.
Also Read: Best Anime To Watch Like Redo Of Healer – Recommendation
6. 91 Days
91 Days is an underrated mystery and gangster anime with a thrilling plot and lots of action. As a young boy in the town of Lawless, Angelo Lagusa suffered a traumatic loss when his family was brutally murdered by the Vanetti mafia. In the wake of this tragedy, Angelo changes his name to Avilio Bruno and flees his hometown. Seven years later, Avilio receives a letter that provides him with the opportunity to seek revenge.
He returns to Lawless, where he meets Nero, the son of the Vanetti don, and befriends him using the skills he has honed over the years. Set in the Prohibition era, 91 Days is a tale of darkness and vengeance as Avilio embarks on a mission to eliminate those responsible for the death of his family.
7. Yona of the Dawn
Yona, a sheltered princess, is forced to run for her life with her bodyguard Hak when an act of treason threatens her safety. Now faced with the challenges of surviving in a dangerous world with a bounty on her head, she quickly realizes that her kingdom is no longer the sanctuary it once was.
Determined to become strong enough to reclaim what was taken from her, Yona embarks on a journey to uncover the pieces of an ancient legend that may hold the key to her success. With Hak by her side, she sets out to reclaim her kingdom from those who seek to overthrow it.
Also Read: Yona Of The Dawn Review: Is It Worth Watching?
8. Blade of the Immortal
In feudal Japan, Manji is an infamous swordsman who has killed one hundred innocent men, earning him the nickname “Hundred Man Killer.” What is even more terrifying than his reputation, though, is his immortality, which was granted to him by an eight-hundred-year-old nun named Yaobikuni, who implanted bloodworms in his body that can heal any wound.
To make amends for his past, Manji vows to kill one thousand evil men, and Yaobikuni promises to lift his curse of immortality if he succeeds. One day, Rin Asano, a 16-year-old girl, seeks Manji’s help in avenging the murders of her parents. Initially hesitant, Manji eventually agrees to protect Rin for four years, and the two of them embark on a dangerous journey of revenge and redemption, each with their own personal goals.
9. Inuyashiki: Last Hero
Inuyashiki: The Last Hero is a sci-fi anime that gathered a lot of attention at the time of its release but still remains quite underrated. Ichirou Inuyashiki is a 58-year-old man who feels neglected by his family and is suffering from back problems and stomach cancer. His only solace is his pet dog Hanako. While he is out in a field with his dog one day, he encounters a mysterious figure and is enveloped in a bright light.
The light transforms him into a mechanized weapon resembling his former self. Ichirou soon discovers that he now has incredible powers and uses them to save a life, which fills him with happiness and hope. However, the origins of his powers and the intentions of the mysterious figure remain unknown.
10. Blast of the Tempest
Yoshino Takigawa is dating his best friend Mahiro’s younger sister Aika in secret. After Aika’s sudden death, Mahiro disappears, determined to seek revenge on her killer. A month later, Yoshino is held at gunpoint by a strange girl who reveals that Mahiro has teamed up with a witch named Hakaze Kusaribe to find Aika’s murderer and the “Tree of Exodus.”
This tree possesses immense power that could be catastrophic for the world if used recklessly. However, Hakaze is stranded on a deserted island, leaving it up to Yoshino and Mahiro to aid her in saving the world and uncovering the truth behind Aika’s death.
11. Evil or Live
The younger generation of the nation is severely addicted to the internet, which has led to them becoming entirely dependent on it. Those who are too deep into this addiction are sent to Elite Reeducation Academy, where they receive help to become successful adults. Hibiki is one such teenager who wakes up in the academy with no memory of how he got there.
The academy is more like a prison, and the instructors abuse the students. Frustrated with his situation, Hibiki decides to end his life by jumping off the roof. However, he meets a man named Shin, who gives him a new purpose in life.
12. Devilman: Crybaby
In order for a devil to take on a physical form, it needs a living host. However, if a person has an unbreakable will, they can conquer the demon and acquire its powers, becoming a Devilman. Akira Fudou is a kind-hearted and frail individual who is always ready to lend a helping hand. When his childhood friend Ryou Asuka asks him for help in uncovering demons, Akira agrees to assist him.
However, things take a dark turn when they attend Sabbath, a gathering of immoral and degenerate people. To Akira’s horror, demons begin to possess the attendees, turning them into grotesque monsters and causing chaos.
In an attempt to save his friend, Akira merges with the demon Amon and becomes a Devilman, gaining the ability to defeat the remaining demons. Devilman: Crybaby is a kind of anime with a unique art style and storyline.
Also Read: 25 More Anime Like Devilman Crybaby: Not For The Fainthearted
13. Masamune-kun no Revenge
As a child, Masamune Makabe was rejected by Aki Adagaki, a wealthy and beautiful girl who nicknamed him “Piggy” because he was overweight. Determined to get revenge, Masamune transforms himself into a handsome, narcissistic high school student and sets out to make Aki fall in love with him, only to reject her in the end.
When he transfers to Aki’s school and begins trying to win her over, he fails at first. But just as he begins to make progress, Masamune receives a mysterious letter that threatens to derail his plan unless he can figure out who sent it.
Also Read: 10 Must-Watch Anime Like Masamune Kun No Revenge
14. Record of Grancrest War
The story follows the journey of a knight named Theo Cornaro, who dreams of freeing his homeland from the chaos and tyranny caused by the constant battles between rival Lords. As Theo travels through the land, he encounters a powerful mage named Siluca Meletes, and the two form a powerful bond. Together, they vow to put an end to the war and create a new era of peace and prosperity for all.
Along the way, Theo and Siluca encounter a host of other powerful Lords, each with their own ambitions and agendas. They must navigate the complex web of alliances and conflicts that make up the world of Grancrest and fight to prevent the destruction of everything they hold dear.
15. Seraph of the End
In a world where a deadly virus decimates anyone over the age of 13, humanity falls under the control of a new race of powerful vampires. These bloodthirsty creatures offer protection to the remaining survivors in exchange for their blood donations, reducing them to mere livestock.
Among the captive children are Yuuichirou and his close friend Mikaela, who yearn to escape their oppressors and live as free individuals once again.
But their hopes for a rebellion are shattered, and only Yuuichirou survives to join a military unit dedicated to eradicating the vampire threat in Japan. Now a member of the Japanese Imperial Demon Army, Yuuichirou seeks to avenge his lost loved ones, but at what cost will he pursue his vendetta against his powerful enemies?
Also Read: Who Does Rock Lee End up with in Naruto & Boruto Anime Series?
16. Psycho-Pass
In the 22nd century, Japan replaced human judgment with the Sibyl System, which objectively evaluates each person’s mental state to determine their potential for criminal activity, known as their Psycho-Pass. Inspectors, backed by lethal force, apprehend anyone who is deemed a threat, while Enforcers, former Inspectors turned latent criminals, are given some freedom in exchange for carrying out the dirtiest work.
Enter Akane Tsunemori, a young and idealistic Inspector who is committed to upholding justice. But as she teams up with veteran Enforcer Shinya Kougami, she discovers that the Sibyl System’s decisions are not always flawless, despite what her colleagues believe.
This revelation challenges everything she’s ever known about the system, and she’s left to grapple with the difficult question of whether true justice can be achieved through a potentially corrupt system.
Also Read: Top 10 Anime Similar To Psycho-Pass That You Should Watch!
17. Kabaneri of the Iron Fortress
The world is in the middle of an industrial revolution when a mysterious virus spawns terrifying creatures known as Kabane. These monsters feed on human flesh and can only be destroyed by piercing their steel-coated hearts. Those bitten by the Kabane are doomed to become one of the undead, adding to the ever-growing horde.
Only the strongest of civilizations have survived this onslaught, including the island of Hinomoto. Here, humanity has constructed a massive wall to fend off the Kabane, with armored trains being the only way to access these fortresses.
Young men like Ikoma service and build these trains, eager to use their skills to fight back against the Kabane. Ikoma has even developed a new weapon he believes will be especially effective against the Kabane, but he’s unaware that his chance to use it will come sooner than he thinks.
18. Berserk
Berserk is the anime adaptation of manga with the same name; it is one of the best seinen manga. It follows the story of Guts, now a marked man doomed to be hunted by demons until his dying day refuses to accept such a grim fate. He embarks on a perilous journey, pursued relentlessly by hordes of monsters.
With fierce determination, he wields his massive Dragonslayer blade and sets his sights on vengeance against the person responsible for his plight – Griffith, who he once considered a friend.
Along the way, Guts gains some unexpected allies, including Puck, a tiny elf, and Isidro, a young thief eager to learn swordsmanship from the former mercenary. As this unusual group bands together to support Guts in his mission, they face unimaginable danger and must overcome incredible obstacles, unlike anything they’ve ever encountered before.
Also Read: Top 15 Strongest Characters In Berserk – Ranked
19. Vinland Saga
This anime is an adaption of a highly acclaimed manga, “Vinland Saga.” Thorfinn becomes a member of the very tribe that murdered his father, hoping to exact his revenge with his own hand. Consumed by thoughts of bloodshed, he is willing to sacrifice everything to achieve his goal.
The story follows Thorfinn, who lives in an icy village in Iceland and dreams of a warm, fertile land he’s heard about from old sailors.
But his village is at war with bloodthirsty Vikings who know nothing but violence. When Thorfinn’s father is betrayed and killed before his eyes, his desire for revenge intensifies. He joins forces with the Vikings, hoping to one day confront Askeladd, the man who murdered his father.
Also Read: 20 Anime Series Like Vinland Saga That You Shouldn’t Miss
20. School Days
School Days is an anime known for its controversial and dark ending that is vastly different from the typical high school romance genre. In the anime, Makoto finds himself torn between his growing feelings for Kotonoha and his physical desires for Sekai.
The situation quickly spirals out of control, leading to a series of infidelities and betrayals that ultimately result in a tragic and violent climax. While the anime features charming and light-hearted moments early on, it ultimately explores the darker side of relationships and how lust and jealousy can have dark consequences.
21. Chrome Shelled Regios
Chrome Shelled Regios takes place in a post-apocalyptic world where humanity has been forced to live inside mobile cities called Regios to escape from deadly monsters called Filth Monsters. The story follows the journey of a skilled swordsman named Layfon Alseif, who enrolls at the military academy in the city of Zuellni to learn how to fight the Filth Monsters and protect his home.
However, Layfon soon discovers that the academy is filled with its own share of dangers, including rival students, corrupt officials, and mysterious conspiracies. As Layfon navigates the complex web of politics and intrigue at the academy, he develops close bonds with a diverse cast of characters, including his fellow students, his mentor, and a powerful queen who seeks to change the world.
22. Legends of the Galactic Hero
“Legend of the Galactic Heroes” explores themes of politics, war, and morality. Set in a distant future where humanity has colonized the galaxy, the story follows the lives of Reinhard and Yang as they rise through the ranks of their respective nations and become key players in the war between the Galactic Empire and the Free Planets Alliance.
As the war rages on, the two men must confront the moral implications of their actions and the impact they are having on the galaxy. Reinhard, driven by a desire for power and a need to protect his loved ones, fights to establish a new order that he believes will bring peace and stability to the galaxy.
Meanwhile, Yang, a reluctant hero, fights for the ideals of democracy and individual freedom, even as he struggles with the harsh realities of war.
23. Dimension W
In Dimension W, humans have unlocked the secrets of a fourth dimension and have developed a way to extract infinite energy from it. However, the energy industry has been monopolized by the New Tesla Energy corporation, leading to the underground distribution of illegal coils.
Kyouma Mabuchi, a “Collector” who hunts down these illegal coils, crosses paths with Mira Yurizaki, an android with a connection to the father of coils.
Together, they unravel the mysteries of Dimension W and uncover a dark conspiracy that threatens the balance of power. The series blends science fiction with action and mystery, as Kyouma and Mira must navigate a dangerous world where the line between man and machine is blurred.
24. Joran: The Princess of Snow and Blood
“Joran: The Princess of Snow and Blood” is a historical fantasy series set in an alternate universe of Japan’s Meiji period. In this world, the Tokugawa shogunate was never abolished, and a secret organization called the Nue hunts down and kills those who possess magical powers. The story follows a young woman named Sawa Yukimura, who is seeking revenge against the Nue for the murder of her family.
Along with a group of allies, including a former samurai and a shapeshifting demon, Sawa battles the Nue and uncovers a dark conspiracy that threatens to upend the balance of power in Japan. With stunning visuals and a gripping plot, “Joran: The Princess of Snow and Blood” is a must-watch for fans of historical anime.
25. Kaze no Stigma
Kaze no Stigma is an action anime that follows the story of Kazuma Yagami, a powerful user of wind magic who returns to his family after being banished for losing a duel with his cousin Ayano Kannagi. However, upon his return, he finds that his family is in danger from a group of powerful enemies who seek to overthrow them and take their place as the ruling clan.
With his incredible abilities and cunning mind, Kazuma must work together with Ayano and her family to protect them and uncover the truth behind the attacks. Along the way, they encounter a host of other skilled magic users and face off against fierce opponents in epic battles that will leave you on the edge of your seat.
26. Gungrave
Gungrave tells the story of Brandon Heat, a skilled gunman who rises through the ranks of a powerful criminal organization known as Millennion. Along with his friend Harry MacDowel, he becomes one of the group’s most trusted enforcers, earning a reputation as a ruthless and unstoppable force.
But as Brandon’s power and influence grow, he begins to question the true intentions of Millennion’s leader, Big Daddy. With Harry’s help, he sets out to uncover the dark secrets behind the organization’s success and to bring about a new era of justice and freedom.
As the two friends embark on their dangerous mission, they face off against a host of deadly enemies, including rival gangs and powerful supernatural forces. But with Brandon’s incredible gunfighting skills and Harry’s cunning intellect, they are more than a match for any opponent.
27. Black Lagoon
Black Lagoon is a thrilling anime series that follows the adventures of a group of mercenaries operating in the dangerous underworld of Roanapur, a seedy city located in the heart of Southeast Asia. Led by the deadly and enigmatic Dutch, the team consists of the tough-as-nails Revy, the tech-savvy Benny, and the newest member, the Japanese salaryman-turned-criminal Rock.
As they take on a variety of high-risk jobs, ranging from smuggling to assassination, the team navigates the murky waters of Roanapur’s criminal underworld, where they encounter a host of dangerous and unpredictable characters, including rival gangs, corrupt officials, and ruthless assassins.
Also Read: Top 5 Binge-Worthy Anime Like Black Lagoon That You Would Like
28. Deadman Wonderland
The story follows Ganta Igarashi, a young boy who is falsely accused of murdering his classmates and sent to Deadman Wonderland. There, he discovers that he has been given the power of the “Branches of Sin,” a mysterious ability that allows him to manipulate his own blood to create powerful weapons.
As Ganta struggles to survive in this brutal and corrupt world, he befriends other “Deadmen” who possess similar abilities and helps them fight against the sinister forces that control the prison. Along the way, they encounter a cast of complex and dangerous characters, including sadistic guards, deadly enemies, and other prisoners who may be friends or foes.
Also Read: Anime Shows To Watch If You Liked Deadman Wonderland – Similar Recommendations
29. Arifutera: From Commonplace To Strongest
Arifureta: From Commonplace to World’s Strongest follows the story of Hajime Nagumo, a high school student who is transported to a magical world along with his classmates. While his classmates are blessed with powerful abilities, Hajime is left with the seemingly useless skill of transmutation.
After a betrayal from one of his classmates, Hajime falls into the depths of a dangerous dungeon, where he is forced to fight for survival. In this treacherous environment, he discovers that his transmutation ability is actually a powerful tool that he can use to craft weapons and armor that make him nearly invincible.
30. The Legend of the Legendary Hero
In a world full of magic, a young mage named Ryner Lute is tasked with finding and recovering ancient relics known as the Alpha Stigma. These powerful artifacts have the ability to grant their wielders great power but also drive them to madness.
Despite being lazy and disinterested in most things, Ryner sets out on this dangerous quest, joined by a beautiful and capable swordswoman named Ferris Eris. As they journey through the world, they encounter a cast of characters, including other mages, knights, and royalty, all with their own motivations and secrets.
Also Read: 50 Best Scariest Anime To Watch In 2023
