Anime has many different types, including school love stories, old-time tales, magical adventures, and action-packed shows.
While there are lots of shows about action and robot battles, there aren’t as many about solving mysteries, especially murders. However, this doesn’t mean there aren’t any good mystery anime. There are fewer of them compared to Western shows, which often have more of these suspenseful stories.
Maybe American viewers are more used to murder mysteries, but there are still some great anime that offer a new twist on this type of story.
From perplexing locked room homicides to futuristic cybernetic investigations, these anime selections cater to a wide spectrum of tastes, ensuring that there’s something to attract every murder mystery fan.
Here is a list of the top 10 best anime in the murder mystery genre.
1. Psycho-Pass
In a dystopian future governed by the omnipotent Sibyl System, the probability of an individual’s criminal propensity is meticulously scrutinized, leaving little room for transgressions to go unnoticed. Enter Inspector Akane Tsunemori and her team of Enforcers, tasked with apprehending those who evade the watchful gaze of this all-seeing entity.
Yet, with each case they encounter, the veil of secrecy surrounding the Sibyl System begins to unravel, revealing a labyrinth of hidden truths and moral quandaries.
As Akane and her Enforcers delve deeper into the shadows cast by the Sibyl System, they are confronted with increasingly elaborate crimes that defy conventional logic. Yet, beneath the surface lies a profound existential inquiry: Is it justifiable to condemn individuals based on their latent criminal predispositions, rather than their actual deeds? Such philosophical musings punctuate their investigations, adding layers of complexity to an already intricate narrative tapestry.
Navigating through a landscape fraught with moral ambiguity and ethical dilemmas, Akane and her team grapple not only with the enigmatic perpetrators they pursue but also with the very fabric of their society’s moral compass.
As the lines between right and wrong blur, and the boundaries of justice become increasingly nebulous, viewers are compelled to ponder the fundamental nature of morality and the implications of surrendering one’s fate to the dictates of a seemingly infallible system.
Psycho-Pass stands as a testament to the power of speculative fiction to provoke thought and introspection. Through its riveting portrayal of futuristic crime-solving and its exploration of weighty philosophical themes, it offers viewers a compelling and intellectually stimulating viewing experience.
For aficionados of science fiction mysteries, Psycho-Pass promises not only thrills and suspense but also a thought-provoking journey into the depths of the human psyche and the moral dilemmas that define our existence.
2. Hyouka
Meet Houtarou Oreki, the epitome of an effortlessly laid-back high schooler whose motto in life is to conserve energy at all costs. Preferring to navigate through life with minimal effort, Houtarou finds himself thrust into the Classic Literature Club at the behest of his sister, armed with nothing but his sharp deductive prowess and a knack for detail.
Enter Eru Chitanda, the embodiment of unbridled curiosity whose infectious catchphrase, “I’m curious!”, serves as the catalyst for their foray into the mysteries. Together, they embark on a journey to unravel the peculiar occurrences unfolding within the confines of their school’s walls.
While murder may not be on the agenda, Hyouka excels in weaving intricate puzzles and enigmatic conundrums around its endearing cast of characters. As Houtarou and Eru find themselves drawn deeper into the mysteries that surround them, their camaraderie and teamwork are put to the test, leading to revelations that transcend the mundane.
What sets Hyouka apart is its ability to seamlessly blend engaging character dynamics with amazing mysteries, resulting in a viewing experience that is as intellectually stimulating as it is emotionally satisfying. With each mystery they solve, Houtarou and Eru uncover not only the truth behind the enigmatic occurrences but also facets of themselves they never knew existed.
For fans of lighter mystery anime, Hyouka offers a refreshing and delightful escape into a world where the thrill of unraveling secrets is tempered with moments of camaraderie and self-discovery. So, join Houtarou and Eru as they embark on an adventure filled with intrigue, wit, and the boundless curiosity that makes life truly worth living.
3. Heaven’s Memo Pad
Following the untimely demise of his father, Narumi Fujishima finds himself uprooted to an isolated town, where fate intertwines his path with that of an unconventional group known as the NEET Detective Agency.
Comprised of a motley crew of societal outcasts, this ragtag team offers their peculiar talents under the guise of “researchers.” It is amidst this eccentric ensemble that Narumi encounters Alice, the enigmatic leader of the group, whose exceptional abilities border on the supernatural.
Drawn into Alice’s orbit, Narumi is thrust into a world teeming with enigmas and intrigue, where the boundaries between reality and illusion blur. Together, they embark on an investigation into a perplexing double suicide case, unraveling a web of secrets that stretches far beyond the confines of their small town.
Heaven’s Memo Pad infuses an attractive twist into the traditional murder mystery genre, with its unconventional protagonist duo of Narumi and Alice at the helm. As Narumi delves deeper into Alice’s realm, he uncovers the extent of her extraordinary talents, which defy conventional explanation.
What sets Heaven’s Memo Pad apart is its exploration of the complex dynamic between Narumi and Alice, whose relationship serves as the linchpin for the series’ myriad mysteries and unexpected plot twists. As they navigate through the labyrinthine depths of human nature, Narumi and Alice confront not only the enigmatic cases before them but also the demons lurking within themselves.
With each case they tackle, Heaven’s Memo Pad reveals a tapestry of intrigue and suspense, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats with its unpredictable outcomes and thought-provoking narrative. Through its seamless blend of mystery, drama, and supernatural elements, the series offers a fresh and compelling take on the genre, leaving audiences attracted until the very end.
4. The Perfect Insider
When Professor Sohei Saikawa and his student, Moe Nishinosono, receive an invitation from the esteemed Dr. Shiki Magata to visit her secluded research laboratory, they anticipate an opportunity to engage with one of the brightest minds of their time. Little do they know, their visit will plunge them into the heart of a perplexing enigma.
Upon their arrival, they are confronted with a chilling discovery: a murder has occurred within the confines of Dr. Magata’s locked laboratory, seemingly impossible for any outsider to access. As Sohei and Moe delve deeper into the investigation, they are confronted with a labyrinth of secrets surrounding Dr. Magata’s enigmatic life and her past experiments, each revelation only serving to deepen the mystery further.
The Perfect Insider presents a futuristic twist on the classic locked-room murder mystery, where the truth behind the baffling crime is slowly revealed, layer by layer. As Sohei and Moe navigate through a web of deception and intrigue, they find themselves drawn into a world where nothing is as it seems, and every revelation brings them closer to the elusive truth.
With its intricate plot and compelling characters, The Perfect Insider offers a riveting journey into the depths of human nature and the complexities of the human mind. As the boundaries between reality and illusion blur, Sohei and Moe must rely on their wits and intuition to unravel the mysteries that lie hidden within the shadows of Dr. Magata’s laboratory.
5. Gosick
Transport yourself to a fictional European country amidst the vibrant backdrop of the 1920s with Gosick, where the enigmatic detective prodigy Victorique and her steadfast assistant Kazuya embark on a journey of unraveling mysteries at the prestigious Saint Marguerite Academy.
Across 24 amazing episodes, viewers are immersed in a world where stolen treasures, ghost ships, and perplexing conundrums abound, each requiring Victorique’s razor-sharp intellect and Kazuya’s unwavering dedication to crack. From the depths of historical context to the subtlest of clues, Victorique employs her deductive reasoning to unravel the secrets concealed within each puzzle, attracting audiences with her brilliance and ingenuity.
Amidst the intricacies of the cases they tackle, Gosick also delves into the supernatural, with eerie mysteries such as the werewolf murder case adding an extra layer of intrigue towards the series’ climax. As Victorique and Kazuya navigate through a tapestry of deceit and deception, viewers are treated to a masterclass in mystery-solving, where every twist and turn reveals new revelations and unexpected truths.
With its cleverly crafted plotlines and rich historical setting, Gosick offers a attracting blend of suspense, intrigue, and supernatural intrigue, making it a must-watch for fans of mystery anime. So, join Victorique and Kazuya on their thrilling adventures as they uncover the hidden truths that lie beneath the surface of Saint Marguerite Academy.
6. B: The Beginning
Welcome to the futuristic island nation of Cremona, where intrigue lurks around every corner and mysteries abound. Enter royal investigator Keith Flick, determined to unravel the enigma surrounding a series of chilling murders where victims are discovered encased in steel frames. With the aid of his intelligent AI assistant Olivia and the daring motorcycle fanboy Koku, Keith delves deep into the heart of darkness to uncover the truth behind the elusive killer known only as “Killer B.”
This Netflix original anime, with its stunning cyberpunk visuals, thrusts viewers into a riveting cat-and-mouse game between Keith and Killer B. As Keith meticulously sifts through the clues scattered across each crime scene, viewers are invited to join in the hunt, piecing together the puzzle and deducing the killer’s motives and next moves.
With its intricate plot and dynamic characters, this anime promises a thrilling ride through the neon-lit streets of Cremona, where danger lurks at every turn and secrets lie waiting to be uncovered. So, buckle up and prepare to immerse yourself in a world where nothing is as it seems, and the line between hunter and prey blurs into obscurity.
7. Monster
Naoki Urasawa, a legend in anime, is celebrated for his masterful storytelling in mystery and suspense. Among his illustrious repertoire stands Monster, hailed as one of his most critically acclaimed works.
At the heart of Monster lies the gripping tale of Kenzo Tenma, a brilliant brain surgeon whose life takes a harrowing turn after he saves the life of a young sociopath named Johan Liebert. As the years unfold, Tenma finds himself ensnared in a web of intrigue and danger when Johan resurfaces, embarking on a chilling spree of murders across Germany.
With its mature and intricate storyline, Monster has often been likened to the anime equivalent of a gritty crime novel. As viewers delve deeper into the narrative, they are confronted with the enigmatic figure of Johan, his traumatic past, and the complex psychology that drives his actions. As Tenma relentlessly pursues Johan, the stakes escalate, leaving viewers on the edge of their seats, eager to unravel the mystery shrouding Johan’s motives and ultimate goal.
In Monster, morality is not black and white, and the lines between protagonist and antagonist blur into shades of gray. As the narrative unfolds, viewers are challenged to confront their own perceptions of justice and the nature of evil, making for a thought-provoking and unforgettable viewing experience.
8. Detective Conan
Certainly, the continuation of the Dragon Ball Super manga after the passing of its creator, Akira Toriyama, seems probable, although no official confirmation has been issued as yet.
Toriyama, while recognized as the writer of the Dragon Ball Super manga, was initially credited for the series’ “original story and character concepts” upon the anime’s announcement.
Manga artist Toyotarou, responsible for illustrating the manga, previously outlined his collaborative process with Toriyama. Toyotarou would receive significant plot points from Toriyama, and sketch out the storyboard, which Toriyama would then review, making adjustments to dialogue and art. This revised draft would then be finalized by Toyotarou.
Given this collaborative dynamic, it appears that as long as Toyotarou continues to receive guidance from Toriyama, he could conceivably carry the manga forward. However, the extent to which Toriyama had outlined future chapters remains unclear.
It’s improbable that Toriyama had meticulously planned out the manga’s future, as his sudden death, attributed to an acute subdural hematoma, suggests an unforeseen tragedy. This condition, categorized as a medical emergency, occurs when a blood clot forms between the brain’s surface and its protective outer layer, often resulting from head trauma.
With the possibility of Toriyama’s passing being the result of an accident, it’s likely that Toyotarou was not prepped for the series’ future. Toyotarou himself, expressing his sorrow, revealed through X (formerly Twitter) that his motivation for manga stemmed from a desire to impress Toriyama-sensei, indicating a deep reverence for the late creator.
As Dragon Ball Super Chapter 103 gears up for release on Thursday, March 21, 2024, it’s anticipated to proceed without disruption. However, there’s a chance that Shueisha may opt for an indefinite hiatus thereafter to strategize the series’ future direction.
9. The File of Young Kindaichi
Kindaichi is a beloved murder mystery anime franchise renowned for its attracting tales spanning multiple TV series, films, and specials. At the heart of the narrative is Hajime Kindaichi, an amateur sleuth with a knack for unraveling complex murders. Each episode presents a new puzzle, often featuring locked room mysteries, mass killings, and elaborate death traps reminiscent of Rube Goldberg contraptions.
Among the standout stories are “The Opera House Murders,” “The Undying Butterflies,” and “Murder on the Titanic.” These gripping mysteries showcase the series’ trademark blend of eccentric characters, ingenious deductions, and chilling crime scenes, making Kindaichi a must-watch for aficionados of the genre. Whether you’re drawn to intricate plot twists or spine-tingling suspense, Kindaichi delivers an unforgettable journey into the depths of human intrigue and deception.
10. Erased
Satoru Fujinuma possesses a remarkable ability: he involuntarily travels back in time a few minutes before a tragedy occurs, enabling him to avert disaster. However, when his mother falls victim to a brutal murder, Satoru finds himself propelled 18 years into the past, back to his elementary school days.
Determined to alter the course of fate, Satoru resolves to save his classmate, Kayo Hinazuki, whose own tragic fate awaits her. Believing that preventing Kayo’s murder may also prevent his mother’s death in the future, Satoru embarks on a gripping journey to alter destiny.
Erased unfolds as a gripping murder mystery, with Satoru racing against the clock to unravel the identity of the killer and thwart their sinister plans. As he navigates the complexities of his past and present, viewers are drawn into a suspenseful narrative filled with dramatic twists and turns.
With each revelation, the tension mounts, keeping audiences on the edge of their seats until the shocking truth is finally revealed. Erased attracts viewers with its blend of mystery, suspense, and heartfelt storytelling, making it a compelling and unforgettable anime experience.
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Honorable Mention
Yamitsuki Pheromone The Animation
Yamitsuki Pheromone The Animation is an adult-oriented anime, and as such, its content and themes are intended for a mature audience.
The plot typically revolves around explicit and adult themes, often involving sexual relationships or encounters, which might not be suitable or appropriate for all audiences.
Queen Bee
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