If you’re looking to step up from childhood favorites like Naruto or One Piece, seinen anime offers a more mature and darker storytelling experience. Unlike shonen anime, seinen shows tend to be more complex, with themes of deep mythologies and unsettling concepts.
Within the seinen genre, you’ll encounter a wide range of themes, from body horror to romance, providing an array of options for your next binge-watch session.
In this list, we’ve compiled some of the best seinen anime, ranging from well-known series to hidden gems, ensuring that there’s something to cater to every taste. Who knows, you might just discover your new favorite among them!
1) Hellsing Ultimate
Kouta Hirano’s dark fantasy vampire saga, Hellsing Ultimate, kicks off our list with a bang. Originally a manga series dating back to 1997, it has seen multiple anime adaptations, but the standout is undoubtedly the 2006-2012 version.
The narrative centers around the Hellsing Organization, led by Sir Integra Fairbrook Wingates Hellsing, along with her powerful vampire servant Alucard and newly-turned vampire Seras Victoria.
Set in contemporary England, the series is about the organization’s mission to combat the various supernatural threats, including vampires and ghouls, that endanger peace in the country.
2) Tokyo Ghoul
Tokyo Ghoul has earned its place as a fan favorite among anime enthusiasts, offering a compelling mix of elements that have become iconic.
The series unfolds in the bustling metropolis of Tokyo and follows the poignant journey of Ken Kaneki, a university student whose life takes a tragic turn after a disastrous date plunges him into the sinister darkness of ghouls.
Filled with visceral battles, chilling torture sequences, and emotionally charged moments, Tokyo Ghoul serves as an excellent gateway to the seinen genre or as a stepping stone for viewers seeking slightly darker and more mature anime experiences.
3) Made In Abyss
The Made in Abyss anime, adapted from Akihito Tsukushi’s acclaimed manga, debuted in 2017 to widespread acclaim.
Set in a town surrounding a massive chasm called the Abyss, it follows Riko, an orphan, and Reg, a part-robot boy, as they venture into the Abyss in search of Riko’s missing mother.
With remnants of ancient civilizations and untold dangers lurking, their journey is fraught with peril and mystery.
4) Pluto
Pluto marks Netflix’s foray into anime, and it’s widely regarded as one of its finest offerings. Adapted from Naoki Urasawa’s renowned manga, which pays homage to Osamu Tezuka’s Astro Boy, the series unfolds in a reality where humans and robots coexist.
The narrative centers on Gesicht, a top Europol robot detective, as he researches a series of mysterious deaths involving both robots and humans. However, his investigation unearths deeper, darker secrets that certain entities are determined to conceal at any cost.
5) Psycho-Pass
Psycho-Pass is a cornerstone of Anime, with its cyberpunk essence and sprawling franchise encompassing numerous films and manga.
The series unfolds in a dystopian rendition of Japan, where individuals’ brains undergo analysis to assign them a Psycho-Pass number, dictating their societal worth and freedom status.
Following the journey of rookie Inspector Akane Tsuemori, Season 1 is about the pursuit of Shinya Kogami, a former Inspector turned Enforcer, as he tracks down his archenemy, Shogo Makishima. Can Akane apprehend Makishima before he slips away once more?
6) Code Geass
Code Geass, a beloved alternate history series, stands as a centerpiece in our lineup, offering a vast array of elements sure to charm any anime enthusiast. Boasting supernatural intrigue and epic mecha battles, it promises enduring appeal across generations.
In this alternate timeline, the universe is carved into three dominant powers: the Holy Britannian Empire, the Chinese Federation, and Europa United.
The narrative unfolds after the Holy Britannian Empire’s conquest of Japan, facilitated by its formidable weapon, the Knightmare Frame. Stripping away citizens’ rights, freedoms, and even the nation’s name, this event sets the stage for an enthralling tale of resistance and rebellion.
7) Vinland Saga
Vinland Saga stands as an award-winning historical drama, blending breathtaking action sequences with profound character arcs, ensuring its place in the annals of anime history.
Drawing inspiration from Makoto Yukimura’s eponymous manga and real historical events, the series traces the journey of Thorfinn, a young Icelander driven by vengeance.
Following the murder of his father at the hands of the Viking Askeladd, Thorfinn joins his crew, harboring a singular goal: to exact revenge upon his father’s killer.
8) Monster
Adapted from Naoki Urasawa’s acclaimed manga series, Monster has garnered numerous awards and is hailed as one of the standout anime series of its era.
The narrative centers on Dr. Kenzo Tenma, a talented Japanese brain surgeon practicing at the Eisler Memorial Hospital in West Germany.
Frustrated by the hospital’s prioritization of political figures over ordinary citizens, Tenma faces a pivotal decision when confronted with the choice of saving a young boy or the city’s mayor.
Opting to prioritize human life over politics, Tenma saves the child, inadvertently leading to the mayor’s demise.
9) Berserk
“Berserk (1997)” stands as an anime masterpiece that didn’t receive its deserved recognition until fans grew disenchanted with a more recent, subpar remake in 2016.
While it may not capture the full depth of the original manga, it remains a compelling watch for anime enthusiasts.
The series centers around Guts, a young man with a tumultuous past who now earns his living as a mercenary, taking on the most lucrative jobs available. His life takes a dramatic turn when he crosses paths with Griffith, a charismatic and skilled swordsman.
After losing to Griffith in a duel, Guts reluctantly joins his band of warriors, setting off a chain of events that will test their loyalty and reshape their destinies.
10) Ranking Of The Kings
“Ranking of the Kings” emerges as a remarkable creation by Wit Studio, produced during a precarious period when the studio faced financial challenges.
Despite these obstacles, the team poured their dedication and talent into crafting an anime that would charm audiences and ensure the studio’s success.
However, his life takes an unexpected turn when he encounters Kage, a mysterious figure who recognizes and admires Bojji’s inner strength.
11) Attack on Titan
“Attack on Titan” has solidified its place as one of the most iconic anime series everywhere, overcoming significant hurdles such as a mid-production studio chance to carve out a reputation unparalleled in Anime.
At its core, the narrative centers around Eren, a young boy whose life is forever altered when he witnesses the brutal demise of his mother at the hands of Titans—gigantic humanoid creatures.
Driven by this traumatic experience, Eren pledges to get rid of Titans, a mission he shares with his childhood friend and adoptive sister.
Set against the backdrop of a reality besieged by Titans, humanity seeks refuge behind colossal walls erected by their forebears.
Despite the relative safety within these protective barriers, Eren harbors a deep curiosity about the mysteries that lie beyond, fueling his relentless quest for answers and justice.
12) Ping Pong The Animation
“Ping Pong The Animation” stands out as a groundbreaking sports anime that gripped audiences with its innovative animation style.
At its core, the series is about the journey of two exceptional table tennis players, Smile and Peco, each grappling with their own strengths and weaknesses.
Their perspectives undergo a profound transformation when they witness the prowess of a national-level player, igniting a shared desire to achieve greatness in the sport.
While Smile possesses innate talent, he often holds back during matches, struggling with self-restraint. Conversely, Peco harbors ambitions of becoming the top player but frequently succumbs to complacency.
Their aspirations take a decisive turn when an ex-national champion visits their high school and decisively defeats Peco, sparking a newfound determination to excel.
13) Mushishi
“Mushishi” stands out as a gem within the slice-of-life anime genre, offering viewers a serene and visually scenic experience that earned it the prestigious Tokyo Anime Award in 2006. In Mushi, ethereal creatures roam the Earth and often defy conventional understanding.
Intrigued by their elusive nature, a Mushi Master named Ginko heads on a journey of seeking to unravel the mysteries surrounding these beings and their integral role in maintaining the universe’s delicate balance.
14) Ajin
“Ajin” stands out as a stark departure from many conventional anime series within the genre, offering a gritty and unfiltered discussion of themes surrounding humanity, immortality, and the unsettling convergence of the two.
At its core, the story revolves around the Ajin, a rare breed of individuals bestowed with immortality.
When high school student Kei Nagai discovers he is one of them after a fatal accident, he is thrust into a harrowing ordeal, becoming the target of various organizations seeking to exploit his unique nature.
The series talks about the concept of pain within the Ajin’s existence. Despite their immortality, Ajin still experiences the visceral sensation of pain, and many of their extraordinary abilities, such as the Invisible Black Matter (IBM), are unlocked through self-inflicted suffering.
This creates a haunting paradox where Ajin is trapped in an endless cycle of death and rebirth, subjected to excruciating torment repeatedly.
15) Bokurano
“Bokurano,” adapted from Mohiro Kitoh’s manga of the same name, stands out as a remarkable example of dark seinen anime. At its core, the series follows a group of middle school students thrust into a harrowing situation: piloting a giant robot named Zearth to defend their lives.
What sets “Bokurano” apart is its unflinching portrayal of the terrifying stakes involved, presented in a realistic and gritty manner.
Renowned for its dark and introspective narrative, “Bokurano” talks about themes of loneliness and the intrinsic value of life.
16) Paranoia Agent
“Paranoia Agent,” a psychological thriller and suspense series, was brought to life by acclaimed director Satoshi Kon and produced by Madhouse.
Set in Musashino, Tokyo, the story revolves around a perplexing social phenomenon triggered by a juvenile assailant known as Lil’ Slugger (Shōnen Bat in Japanese).
The narrative unfolds with the protagonist, character designer Tsukiko Sagi, falling victim to an attack by a boy wielding a golden bat. This incident sets off an investigation led by detectives Keiichi Ikari and Mitsuhiro Maniwa.
However, as the series progresses, it becomes evident that Lil’ Slugger is not merely a conventional criminal but a supernatural entity born from the depths of paranoia and fear.
17) Gankutsuou: The Count Of Monte Cristo
“Gankutsuou,” inspired by Alexandre Dumas’ timeless novel, “The Count of Monte Cristo,” offers a fresh take on the classic tale. Set in a distant future with advanced technology, the anime blends elements of science fiction and fantasy into the narrative.
Its unique art style, characterized by intricate textures and patterns, sets it apart from traditional anime.
The story revolves around Viscount Albert de Morcerf, who forms a bond with the Count of Monte Cristo after the latter saves him from peril. Unbeknownst to Albert, the Count is actually Edmond Dantès, a man seeking vengeance against those who wronged him in the past.
As the plot unfolds, secrets are revealed, and intricate webs of deception are laid bare, leading to a tale of betrayal and retribution.
18) Shigurui: Death Frenzy
“Shigurui” is about the brutality of samurai in early 17th century Japan, during the formative years of the Tokugawa shogunate. At its core are two warriors, Gennosuke Fujiki, a skilled swordsman with only one arm, and Seigen Irako, who is blind.
The story unfolds against the backdrop of a tournament organized by the daimyo, where combatants wield real Japanese swords, heightening the stakes and intensity of the battles.
“Shigurui” doesn’t shy away from depicting graphic violence and mature themes, immersing viewers in a dark and unforgiving reality where survival often demands the ultimate sacrifice.
19) Ergo Proxy
“Ergo Proxy” presents a gripping blend of science fiction and suspense, brought to life by the creative minds at Manglobe. The narrative follows Re-l Mayer, an inspector heading into a string of murders within her city, and Vincent Law, an immigrant harboring a shadowy history.
Their fates intertwine upon uncovering a conspiracy entwined with the existence of mythical beings called Proxies and a virus granting self-awareness to humanoid robots.
20) Now And Then, Here And There
“Now and Then, Here and There” is celebrated for its poignant storytelling and unflinching portrayal of the horrors of war, particularly its impact on children.
It talks about themes of resilience, hope, and the erosion of innocence, presenting a narrative that is both bleak and uplifting.
Despite its somber tone, the series conveys a message of hope and the indomitable nature of the human spirit. Its art style, while simple and traditional, serves to underscore the weighty themes mentioned in the story.
As such, “Now and Then, Here and There” is a series that resonates with mature audiences seeking thought-provoking and emotionally resonant narratives.
21) Elfen Lied
Set in a harsh and unforgiving reality, “Elfen Lied” unfolds the tragic tale of Lucy, a young girl endowed with violent telekinetic abilities. Escaping from prison, Lucy heads on a vengeful quest against the humans who have subjected her to cruelty.
Throughout the series, Lucy and other diclonius characters serve as metaphors for oppressed and marginalized groups, their actions reflecting the consequences of societal mistreatment.
The anime mentions themes of vengeance and the perpetuation of violence, illustrating how acts of cruelty can breed further hostility. Through its portrayal of characters with inhuman powers and primal instincts, “Elfen Lied” is about the destructive cycle of hatred and retribution.
Its graphic scenes sparked controversy, pushing the boundaries of anime content and offering a stark examination of humanity’s darkest aspects.
22) Ghost in the Shell
“Ghost in the Shell” stands as a prime representation of the seinen genre, showcasing its distinct characteristics through the character of Major Motoko Kusanagi, a cyborg grappling with existential questions about her humanity.
One of its defining features is its sleek and cutting-edge animation, coupled with dynamic action sequences that set a new standard for science fiction anime.
The innovative integration of traditional cel animation with CGI techniques was groundbreaking upon its release, contributing to the series’ visual appeal and immersive storytelling.
23) Steins;Gate
“Steins;Gate” is a standout Japanese anime series produced by White Fox, adapted from the 2009 visual novel of the same name by 5pb. and Nitroplus.
Running for 24 episodes from April to September 2011, the story is set in 2010 and centers around Rintaro Okabe and his group of friends who stumble upon a method of time travel that allows them to send text messages to the past, altering the course of events in the present.
Praised for its character development of themes such as time travel, human nature, and PTSD, “Steins;Gate” is widely regarded as one of the best anime series of the 2010s, earning the third spot on MyAnimeList.
The series has also spawned original net animation episodes and a spinoff film, further expanding its rich universe.
24) Inuyashiki
“Inuyashiki” is a compelling Japanese science fiction manga penned and illustrated by Hiroya Oku. Serialized in Kodansha’s seinen manga magazine Evening from January 2014 to July 2017, the series spans 10 tankōbon volumes.
The narrative talks about the lives of two individuals who, following a mysterious event, gain superhuman abilities. However, their choices in utilizing these powers lead them down vastly different paths.
An anime television series adaptation comprising 11 episodes was brought to life by MAPPA and aired on Fuji TV’s late-night programming block Noitamina from October to December 2017.
Additionally, a live-action film adaptation made its debut in April 2018, further solidifying the series’ impact across different mediums.
25) Dororo
“Dororo” is a 2019 anime television series crafted by MAPPA and Tezuka Productions, drawing inspiration from Osamu Tezuka’s manga of the same name. This rendition serves as a re-adaptation of the original 1969 series, offering a fresh take on the beloved narrative.
While the adaptation differentiates from its source material in certain aspects, it remains true to the core premise of the manga. The story centers around Hyakkimaru, a young ronin, and Dororo, a spirited child, as they scour through Sengoku-era Japan.
Together, they confront a myriad of demons who have robbed Hyakkimaru of his various body parts, heading on a quest to reclaim what was lost.
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