A depressing anime that deeply shakes your heart and sometimes leaves a heavy aftertaste. There are many works that are not only sad, but also make you think deeply about the conflicts of the characters and the ending of the story. However, since there are many types, many people may have trouble deciding which one to choose.
So this time, I would like to introduce some recommended depressing anime. We will also explain the key points on how to choose one, so please refer to it.
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table of contents
- Recommended depression anime
Recommended depression anime
Original Sin of Takopee – ENISHIYA
Released in 2025, 6 episodes total
An anime depicting the interaction between an octopus-shaped alien from the Happy Planet and a girl who is suffering at school and at home. Based on the popular manga by Taizan 5, this is a much-talked-about work that tackles serious themes such as bullying and child abuse head-on.
Tacopy, who came to Earth to spread “Happiness,” meets Shizuka, an elementary school student. Shizuka suffered from bullying from her classmates and neglect at home. Tacopy struggles to make her happy, but he cannot understand the complex emotions and evil intentions of humans…
You should be careful while watching this movie as it deals with heavy themes, but it is a challenging content that will make you think deeply about the problems of modern society. The skillful psychological depiction and detailed structure make this work recommended for those interested in social issues.
Higurashi When They Cry – Studio Deen
Broadcast in 2006, total 26 episodes
A horror suspense anime depicting the mystery of a series of mysterious deaths that occur in a cold village deep in the mountains in 1981. Based on the Ryukishi 07 doujin game, it attracted many fans with its complex foreshadowing and detailed structure. After being made into an anime, it was developed in various media such as live-action movies and manga, and became a huge hit with a cumulative circulation of over 10 million copies.
The main character, Keiichi Maehara, transfers from the city to a depopulated village deep in the mountains called Hinamizawa Village. He was having a fun school life with his new friends, but then he learned of the existence of a mysterious incident in which “one person dies and another person disappears'' that occurs every June on the day of the summer festival Watanagashi.
The villagers remain silent about the incident, and Keiichi gradually becomes suspicious. Is the series of mysterious deaths and disappearances a coincidence, a conspiracy, or is it the curse of Oyashiro-sama that has been passed down in the village? The story is divided into multiple parts, each approaching the truth of the incident from a different perspective.
It is characterized by a unique structure in which each chapter has a different ending, rather than a continuous development. The horror production, which is a fusion of horror and suspense, and the mystery-solving elements are perfectly balanced. This is a masterpiece recommended for those who want to enjoy complex worldviews and psychological depictions.
Narutaru – Planet
Broadcast in 2003, total 13 episodes
By: amazon.co.jp
A dark fantasy anime that has become a hot topic for its shocking developments hidden behind a cute appearance. This controversial work is based on a popular manga by Mohiro Kito, and mixes psychological depictions of adolescent boys and girls with supernatural beings. Although it has a heartwarming atmosphere at first glance, it has been praised as a work with a deep theme.
The main character is Shiina Tamayori, a 6th grade elementary school student. While visiting the island where his grandparents live during summer vacation, he almost drowns in the sea, but is saved by a mysterious star-shaped creature named Hoshimaru.
The bright and friendly Shiina meets other owners of “Dragon Children” and soon becomes embroiled in a battle between those who are trying to reset the world. The relationship between the two dragons that shape the earth itself is also revealed, and the story takes an unexpected turn…
The cute character designs, profound themes that are suddenly depicted, and hopeless developments leave a strong impression on viewers. This is a recommended masterpiece that will leave a deep impression on your heart, depicting the reality of cruelty that lies behind superficial kindness.
Yuki Yuna is a Hero Yuki Yuna Chapter – Studio Gogumi
Broadcast in 2014, 1st season: 12 episodes in total / Broadcast in 2017, 2nd season: 12 episodes in total
A moving magical girl anime in which an ordinary middle school student assumes the destiny of saving humanity as a hero. The original work by Project 2H was made into an anime, and it was developed into numerous media such as games and novels. This is a work that has attracted a lot of attention, with Seiji Kishi of “Angel Beats!'' and “Assassination Classroom'' serving as the general director.
Yuki Yuna is a member of the Brave Club of Sanshu Junior High School in Shikoku in the 300th year of the Divine Era. She was living a peaceful club activity with her friends, but one day a mysterious enemy named Vertex appears who is targeting the sacred tree. Yuna and her friends are chosen to be the heroes who protect humanity, and become caught up in the fate of the battle.
Yuna and her friends, who have awakened as “Heroes,'' continue to fight against “Vertex'' in the sacred tree's barrier, “The Sea of Trees.'' However, every time he uses his powers as a hero, he is forced to pay the harsh price of losing his physical functions (Sanka)…
It carefully depicts the gap between bright daily life and harsh battles, and the story of the girls' growth supported by friendship and a sense of mission. With its psychological depiction of the characters and unique worldview, the series has captivated many fans with its deeply moving storyline. This is a masterpiece recommended for those who like magical girl anime.
BANANA FISH – MAPPA
Broadcast in 2018, total 24 episodes
A crime suspense anime centered around the bond between a street gang boss and a Japanese university student. MAPPA has adapted the legendary original manga by Akio Yoshida into a film, depicting the passionate bond and harsh fate of young men who confront a conspiracy surrounding a mysterious drug called “Banana Fish.''
The setting is New York after the Iraq War. Ash Lynx, a handsome 17-year-old boy, is organizing a street gang with his unique fighting ability and intelligence. In pursuit of the identity of the mysterious drug known as Banana Fish, which turned his brother into a disabled person, Ash receives a pendant containing the drug from a dying man.
Corsican mafia boss Golzine hunts down Ash for the drug, while Japanese university student Eiji Okumura arrives in New York for research. Eiji, an innocent young man, meets Ash, who lives in a harsh world, and becomes his emotional support…
Ash's overwhelming charisma and deep bond with Eiji are the core of the story, and the beautiful illustrations and smooth battle scenes are also appealing. Set against the backdrop of political intrigue and mafia conflicts, this is a masterpiece recommended for adults, with a serious and profound story and an emotional human drama that touches your heart.
Neon Genesis Evangelion – Gainax
Broadcast in 1995, total 26 episodes
A deep psychological anime about a 14-year-old boy who rides a giant weapon and faces himself while fighting an unknown enemy. With its unique world view that combines robot combat and internal human drama, it has been acclaimed worldwide as a masterpiece in anime history.
The story is set in the near future when Earth is attacked by mysterious enemies called Apostles. The main character, Shinji Ikari, is called to the special agency NERV, which is commanded by his father Gendo, and fights as a pilot of the general-purpose humanoid decisive battle weapon Evangelion.
Shinji has not been able to find the value of his existence, but he grows through his relationships with his friends and through battles. Mysteries such as religious/philosophical themes and human supplementation plans are at the heart of the story, and the story is characterized by encouraging viewers to interpret it in multiple layers.
The unique visual expression, music, and performance of the voice actors have been highly praised, and a deep human drama that goes beyond a mere robot animation will unfold. It is a recommended masterpiece anime that attracts many fans of all ages and genders with its profound content depicting psychological conflicts and complex human relationships.
・DVD
Licorice Recoil – Aniplex
Broadcast in 2022, total 13 episodes
An original action/everyday anime depicting the activities of girls who have two roles: agents of a secret organization and cafe workers. Shingo Adachi served as director for the first time, and Imigimuru, known for works such as “SAO,'' participated in character design.
Girls who work as agents “Licorice'' of “DA'', a secret organization that prevents crimes. Among them, Chizuku Nishikiki is a genius who is said to be the strongest of all time, but for some reason he maintains a “no-killing'' principle.
On the other hand, Takina Inoue was an excellent Licorice, but due to her arbitrary actions in a certain incident, she was ordered to be transferred to a Japanese-style coffee shop called Licorice. So, he teams up with Chizoku and aims to return while working at the cafe…
The contrast between the bright and pacifist Chizoku and the cool and efficiency-oriented Takina is fascinating. It attracted a lot of attention for its composition, which exquisitely combines the heartwarming daily life of a coffee shop with the thrilling mission of a secret organization. Although it is an original work, it has received high praise and is recommended for those who want to enjoy both action and daily life.
Happy Sugar Life – Ezo’la
Broadcast in 2018, total 12 episodes
An anime that became a hot topic due to the gap between cute visuals and pure psychological horror. Based on the manga of the same name by Kagisora and Miyaki, it depicts the sweet yet crazy lives of high school girls Sato Matsuzaka and young girl Shio Kobe. A shocking story that questions the definition of love, with great performances by Kana Hanazawa and Misaki Kuno.
Sato is a high school girl who has grown up without understanding the emotion of love. He meets Shio, a girl who has lost her memory, and realizes “love” for the first time. Shio adores Sato like her own mother, and the two decide to secretly live together in a room in an apartment.
However, Shio is not allowed to go out because flyers looking for Shio are posted all over town. Sato takes more part-time jobs to earn a living, but love-sick people, such as a possessive store manager and a boy who is after Shio, start interfering in their lives…
Contrary to the title and the loveliness of the characters, the story unfolds in a bizarre and suspenseful way. This is a unique work that depicts the line between pure love and madness, and it makes you think deeply about the nature of love. This is a work recommended for those who enjoy shocking production and a style with a gap.
Infinite Levias – Sunrise
Broadcast in 1999, total 26 episodes
By: amazon.co.jp
A science fiction work depicting a group of boys and girls who survive in a closed space under extreme conditions. Set in a future universe where the southern hemisphere has been destroyed by an abnormal phenomenon caused by a solar flare called the Gedult Phenomene, the film is a profound drama and a detailed worldview. It is also known as Goro Taniguchi's directorial debut for a television series.
The space navigator training school, Liebe Delta, is attacked, and the 487 boys and girls who lost their instructors escape on the mysterious spaceship, Levias. After being attacked by the Orbital Security Agency, which was supposed to rescue him, he continues his escape from Mars to Saturn.
In a closed space without adults, the battle for command on the ship and the distribution of supplies intensify. A harsh survival experience where human nature is revealed, including violent incidents, ideological conflicts, and the collapse of internal order…
While the large number of characters, complex human relationships, and portrayal of mentally unstable characters have divided viewers, the film has been praised for its deep psychological portrayal as a microcosm of society. This is a work recommended for fans of science fiction anime with a strong theme.
・DVD
Our – GONZO
Broadcast in 2007, total 24 episodes
A profound suspense robot anime depicting the fate of children who control giant robots. The anime was adapted by GONZO from the original manga by Mohiro Kito, and directed by Hiroyuki Morita. It is highly acclaimed as a masterpiece that perfectly combines robot battles and psychological depictions.
Fifteen boys and girls gather at a summer nature school and meet a mysterious man who calls himself Kokopelli in a cave. They were invited to play a game in which they used giant robots to defeat 15 enemies attacking the Earth, and they signed a contract out of curiosity.
However, the battle with the giant robot “Zearth” was not just a game. Every time he won a battle as a pilot, a cruel fate awaited him: his life would be taken away…
The children take turns as pilots, and each child's feelings and background are carefully depicted. With an excellent balance between realistic depictions of combat and deep psychological depictions, this is a profound drama with themes of life and death. This is a recommended masterpiece that depicts human behavior in extreme situations.
The Ultimate Weapon Girlfriend – Studio Fantasia
Broadcast in 2002, total 13 episodes
By: amazon.co.jp
A sci-fi love story anime depicting the sad and pure love between lovers caught up in a sudden war. The film is based on the popular manga by Shin Takahashi, and directed by Mitsuko Kase. This work became a hot topic with its catchphrase, “The last love story on this planet.''
The main characters are Shuji, a high school student, and his girlfriend, Chise, a shy high school girl. The two continue to have an innocent but awkward relationship, but the day comes when Sapporo is suddenly attacked by an airstrike.
Amidst the flames of war, Shuji reunites with Chise, who has transformed into an unexpected figure. Chise was modified by the Self-Defense Forces as the ultimate weapon, grew wings from her back, and was sent out onto the battlefield…
Every time Chise performs her “work'' as a weapon, she loses her humanity. Meanwhile, her love with Shuji, who continues to watch over her, is tested in the reality of war. This is a recommended masterpiece anime that has touched the hearts of many viewers with its beautiful yet cruel worldview and the deep bond between the two.
Doomsday What are you doing? Are you busy? Can I save you? – Satellite
Broadcast in 2017, total 12 episodes
By: amazon.co.jp
A fleeting and heartbreaking apocalyptic fantasy anime about the only survivor of the human race and a girl with a fairy weapon. Based on the light novel by Ei Kareno, it has touched the hearts of many viewers with its moving story that cannot be watched without crying.
A world where the earth has been overrun by mysterious monsters (beasts) and many races, including humans, have perished. Willem Kmesh was the only surviving human race living on an archipelago floating in the sky. He is entrusted with the management of girls called “Fairy Weapons'' and begins to communicate with them.
However, the girls of “Fairy Weapons” were destined to fight as weapons, and were burdened with the harsh fate of disappearing if they won the battle. In particular, the relationship between the heroine, Kutli, and Willem is depicted as a sweet and sad love story.
Although it contains some depressing elements, a moving climax awaits in the final episode. However, since the five volumes of the original work were consumed in one season, the story unfolds in a hurry, so you need to be careful when understanding the worldview. This is a work recommended for those seeking deep emotion.
PSYCHO-PASS – Production IG
Broadcast in 2012: 1st season: 22 episodes in total / 2nd season: 11 episodes in total / 3rd season: 8 episodes in total
A science fiction anime set in a near-future society where people's psychological states are quantified to prevent crimes. In a surveillance society controlled by the Sibyl System, detectives from the Public Security Bureau struggle to confront criminals. The carefully constructed worldview and philosophical themes are attractive.
The setting is Japan in 2112. This is a world where social order is maintained by the Sibyl System, which constantly monitors people's psychological state and measures the likelihood of crime using a numerical value called the crime coefficient. Tsunemori Akane, a new surveillance officer, works with Shinya Kogami, a former detective who works as an enforcement officer, to crack down on latent criminals.
However, in a society dependent on the system, Shu gradually begins to have fundamental questions about what justice is. Enforcement officers are also placed in the complicated position of pursuing criminals, even though they themselves are treated as latent criminals…
It deals with important themes that are relevant to modern society, such as control and freedom, order and justice, and has a well-balanced combination of suspense elements and action scenes. This work is recommended for those interested in near-future technology and social systems.
Puella Magi Madoka Magica – Shaft
Broadcast in 2011, total 12 episodes
A dark fantasy anime that overturns the image of magical girls. Directed by Akiyuki Shinbo and written by Gen Urobuchi, this work won the Grand Prize in the Animation Division at the 15th Japan Media Arts Festival.
The main character is Madoka Kaname, a second year student at Mitakihara Junior High School. One day, he witnesses a magical girl fighting in his dream, and Homura Akemi, who appears as a transfer student, warns him not to become a magical girl. After that, a mysterious creature named Kyubey offers her a contract to become a magical girl.
Together with her friend Sayaka Miki and her senior, Mami Tomoe, Madoka decides to step into the world of magical girls. However, the harsh fate that awaits the magical girls who continue to fight in exchange for their wishes becoming true gradually becomes clear…
It opened up new horizons in the magical girl genre with its serious and profound story development and excellent production and music. It continues to be supported by a wide range of age groups due to its themes and deep messages that go beyond the boundaries of good and evil. This is a masterpiece recommended for those looking for dark fantasy works.
Elfen Lied – Arms
Broadcast in 2004, 14 episodes total
A dark science fantasy depicting a conflict between humans and a new human race called Diclonius, born through a mutation. This work questions the meaning of existence and the essence of humanity through the tragedy of a girl who has two horns on her head and controls an invisible arm called Vector.
After escaping from the isolation facility, Lucy loses her memory and meets Kouta, a university student, as Nyuu. Kota protects her at Kaede Manor, but does not know Lucy's true identity or past. The fate of Lucy, who was traumatized by the murder of her dog when she was a child, gradually becomes clear.
The story revolves around the dual nature of the innocent character “Nyu” and the ferocious “Lucy”. The story of a girl who has the power to destroy humanity, yet still seeks love, is impressive. A complex drama unfolds as the lab's intrigues and relationships with other Diclonius intertwine…
It is characterized by the contrast between grotesque depictions and beautiful music, and combines moe and serious elements. Although the content is hard, it has a deep message and leaves a strong impression on viewers. This is a masterpiece anime recommended for adult viewers that will make you think about human nature and love.
Magical girl site – production dóA
Broadcast in 2018, total 12 episodes
A dark fantasy anime about girls who suffer from bullying and abuse and gain magical powers. The cruel and profound worldview that overturns the image of magical girl works has attracted attention. It is based on the popular manga by Kentaro Sato that was serialized in Weekly Shonen Champion.
The main character, Aya Asagiri, is a junior high school student who cannot endure the bullying at school and abuse at home, and spends her days wishing for death. One day, she came across a mysterious site called a magical girl site. Aya, who became a magical girl with the magic stick given to her by the site, meets other girls in the same situation.
However, magical power comes at a price: each time you use it, your lifespan is shortened. The magical girls face their harsh fate while investigating the identity and purpose of the site administrator…
Although it deals with heavy themes, the friendship and growth of the girls are carefully depicted, and there are also plenty of mystery-solving elements. This shocking work is recommended for those looking for dark magical girl stories.
Kenpuudenki Berserk – GEMBA
Broadcast in 1997, total 25 episodes
A dark fantasy anime set in a medieval European world, centered around a young man who lives as a mercenary. Based on Kentaro Miura's popular manga, it has received enthusiastic support from all over the world as the “strongest dark fantasy.'' This is a youthful Taiga work that seriously faces dreams, friendship, and life.
Guts, a young man who becomes a mercenary, has various experiences on the battlefield. The story told through Guts's upbringing is impressive. The story, which unfolds with a profound worldview, tackles fundamental human themes head-on.
Naohito Takahashi is the director, and Yoshihiko Umakoshi is in charge of the main character design. The main characters Guts is played by Ennen Hayashi, Griffith is played by Tomoyuki Morikawa, and Casca is played by Yuko Miyamura.
A robust work that incorporates youthful elements while dealing with serious themes. This is a work recommended for those looking for a dark fantasy masterpiece.
School Days – TNK
Broadcast in 2007, total 12 episodes
A school anime depicting a shocking love-hate drama that begins with a love triangle. The original work is the Overflow game of the same name.
Makoto Ito, a student at Sakakino Gakuen High School, is in love with Kotobuki Katsura, who rides the same train to school. One day, he is discovered by his classmate Sekai Saionji while he is performing a love spell passed down at the school, and with Sekai's help, he begins dating words. However, the world also had feelings for Makoto, and Makoto's heart, sandwiched between the two women, gradually swayed.
Jealousy and hatred arise from entangled romantic relationships, and the emotions of the characters become violently conflicted. The story changes from a superficial school romantic comedy to one that relentlessly depicts the dark side of humanity… This is a popular work recommended for those looking for an exciting love-hate drama.
Guilty Crown – Production IG
Broadcast in 2011, total 22 episodes
A science fiction action anime depicting youth and battle over the “king's power” that extracts the hearts of others as “voids” and uses them as weapons. Director Tetsuro Araki, original character design by redjuice, and music by supercell became a hot topic, and a media mix including games and novels was also developed.
The setting is Japan in 2029, which has come under the control of GHQ due to the spread of the Apocalypse Virus. When high school student Sakura Manju meets Inori Yuzuriha, a popular songstress and member of the anti-government organization Funeral Home, the wheels of fate begin to turn.
Shu possesses the
This work attracted a lot of attention with its overwhelming visuals and music by EGOIST. The story is complex, but the highlights are the relationship between Shu and Inori and the spectacular final battle. Recommended for those looking for emotional drama and beautiful visual expressions.
Akame ga Kill! – WHITE FOX
Broadcast in 2014, total 24 episodes
A dark fantasy anime that depicts the story of a group of assassins who wield swords for justice in an empire where the line between good and evil is blurred. This is a popular work based on the original work by Takahiro, and has been developed in a wide range of media such as manga and novels. It became a hot topic due to its strong battle elements and many serious developments.
Tatsumi, a young swordsman from a village suffering from the oppressive rule of a corrupt empire, heads to the imperial capital to work with his childhood friend in order to save the village. However, Tatsumi loses his childhood friend after being deceived by an unscrupulous aristocrat in the imperial capital, and ends up meeting Akame, a black-haired, red-eyed girl who is a member of the assassin group Night Raid.
Meeting her will drastically change Tatsumi's destiny. Together with members who master special weapons (Teigu), they fight under the cover of darkness to defeat the evil of the empire…
This work is attractive for its battle action in which the characters use special weapons called Teigu, and for its profound and dark worldview. Although it deals with extreme and heavy themes, it carefully depicts the bonds between friends and growth, and is recommended for those who like serious action anime.
Future Diary – Athleisure
Broadcast in 2011, total 26 episodes
A death game anime about Mirai Nikki, which sparked the yandere boom. The highlight is the combination of Yukiteru Amano, an introverted second year middle school student, and Yuno Agatsuma, who has an unusual love for him.
The setting is a survival game in which 12 Future Diary owners fight each other to become the next god. Yukiteru has lived his life as a bystander, but when he obtains a mobile diary that predicts the future, he becomes drawn into a cruel game. Yuno, who also owns the diary, sometimes acts crazy because of her love for Yukiteru…
The battle of wits that takes advantage of the different predictive abilities of each diary owner and the twists and turns are fascinating. Yuno's “Yukiteru Diary” records his future and is the key to their bond and strategy. The unpredictable storyline and psychological depiction of the line between love and madness are impressive.
It depicts the dual nature of Yuno, a typical yandere character, and the intricately intertwined relationships between people. This is a work recommended for those who like suspense and death games, and those who want to enjoy rich character depictions.
Made in Abyss – Kinema Citrus
Broadcast in 2017, 1st season: 13 episodes in total / 2nd season: 12 episodes in total
A dark fantasy anime depicting the adventures of a cave explorer who ventures into the Abyss, a gigantic hole full of mysteries. Based on the original work by Akihito Tsukushi, this work is popular both in Japan and abroad for its detailed worldview and beautiful visuals.
Strange creatures and precious relics are hidden in the Abyss, a huge vertical hole on a solitary island. Riko, a 12-year-old girl, follows in her mother's footsteps and heads for the depths of the Abyss with Reg, a robot boy who has lost his memory. However, the deeper you go, the more powerful a curse attacks the adventurer.
In contrast to the adorable character designs, the depiction of realistic and harsh adventures is impressive. The story of survival and growth in a dangerous environment is told with a sense of tension. This is a work that fully expresses the charm of the original work, with careful direction by director Masayuki Kojima.
It has beautiful background art and powerful action scenes, and is a perfect combination of adventure fantasy and dark elements. This is a masterpiece recommended for those who want to experience the unique worldview of the original work and those who are looking for a full-fledged adventure anime.
Land of the Lustrous – Orange
Broadcast in 2017, total 12 episodes
A fantasy anime depicting the growth story of phosphophyllite, which beautifully reproduces the shine and texture of gemstones using 3DCG technology. This is Orange's first commissioned work, and it has beautiful visual expression and a deep theme.
On Earth in the distant future, immortal life forms with bodies made of jewels live. They were in danger of being attacked by invaders from the moon, the Lunarians, and being taken away as ornaments.
The main character, Phosphophyllite, is a young gemstone that has low hardness and is not suitable for battle. As his friends head off to battle, he is given the job of creating a natural history book and grows through various encounters…
The beautiful visuals express the beautiful texture unique to gemstones in full 3DCG, and the philosophical story with themes of growth and change is attractive. The changes in Phos's state of mind and his relationships with his friends are carefully depicted, and it has a deep message. Recommended for those looking for beautiful visuals and a heart-touching story.
Another – PAWORKS
Broadcast in 2012, total 12 episodes
A horror/mystery anime depicting a 26-year curse hidden in a class where the dead mix in. The original novel by Yukito Ayatsuji has been adapted into an anime, and has also been adapted into a manga and live-action film. It attracted many fans as a work that combines detailed mystery solving and fear.
In 1998, Koichi Sakakibara transfers to Yamiyamakita Junior High School's 3rd year class, and feels uncomfortable with the strange atmosphere in his class. The classmates behaved as if they were afraid of something, and were also concerned about the presence of Mei Misaki, a mysterious girl wearing an eyepatch.
Eventually, Kouichi learns of the terrifying legend of Class 3, which has been going on since 1972. There was a curse that every year a disaster occurred in this class, and students and people involved died mysterious deaths…
Horror and mystery are cleverly combined, and the plot draws viewers in until the end. The worldview of the original work has been beautifully visualized through beautiful illustrations and detailed production. This is a masterpiece recommended for those who like mysteries and suspense.
School life! – Larke
Broadcast in 2015, total 12 episodes
A shocking zombie horror/survival anime disguised as an everyday Moe anime. Based on the manga serialized in “Manga Time Kirara Forward”, it attracted attention for its cute character design and the gap between its hopeless worldview. The sudden development of the first episode had a strong impact on viewers, and it has been talked about for generations among anime fans.
The main character, Yuki Takeyari, is a member of the “School Life Club'' and lives a sleepover at school with her friends. It looks like he is living a bright and fun school life, but in reality, zombies are spreading in the outside world, and he is living a life of survival using the school as his base.
Yuki's escapism from reality and the dedicated support of her friends depict a momentary peaceful life. However, the harsh reality, such as food shortages and external threats, gradually becomes clear…
The violent expressions are modest, making it easy to watch even for those who don't like horror. It is a unique recommended anime that stands out from traditional zombie works due to the unique charm created by the contrast between the moe characters and the hopeless worldview.
Incompetent Nana – Bridge
Broadcast in 2020, 13 episodes total
A school suspense anime about an “incompetent” boy who hides his abilities in a battle of wits. This anime is based on a popular manga written by Ruth Boy and illustrated by Furuya An, and is full of unexpected developments and psychological warfare.
At a school on a remote island in the ocean, boys and girls with special abilities are training hard to fight against the enemy of humanity. Nanao Nakajima, who doesn't have any abilities, transfers there.
Nanao was looked down upon as “incompetent'' by those around her due to her lack of ability, but she overcomes many crises with her intellect and observation skills. Through his encounters with transfer students Nana Hiiragi and Kyoya Onodera, the truth hidden at the school gradually becomes clear.
The highlight is the story, which goes beyond the limits of a skill battle and involves psychological warfare and social issues. This anime is recommended for those who want to enjoy mystery elements and unexpected developments.
Magical Girl Training Plan – Larke
Broadcast in 2016, total 12 episodes
A harsh survival anime where magical girls fight for survival. The story is said to be about “deceiving, outwitting, and competing to be a magical girl,'' and is characterized by a dark story that overturns the conventional concept of magical girls. It is based on the light novel series by Asaku Endo.
Koyuki Himekawa, a junior high school student who was playing the social game “Magical Girl Raising Project,'' is chosen by the mascot character Fav to become a real magical girl. The joy of becoming the magical girl of your dreams is short-lived, but the management announces an unreasonable announcement that “the number of magical girls that have increased too much will be cut in half.''
One person per week who earns a small number of magical candies will be stripped of their magical girl status. However, losing his qualification meant death… In a hopeless situation, the magical girls engage in deception and outsmarting each other in order to survive.
The shocking story depicts how a magical girl who was a symbol of love and justice will do whatever it takes to survive. This is a recommended work that stands out from traditional magical girl anime, as it carefully depicts the psychological depictions of the characters and the changes in their relationships.
Attack on Titan – WIT STUDIO / MAPPA
Broadcast from 2013 to 2023: 1st season: 25 episodes in total / 2nd season: 12 episodes in total / 3rd season: 22 episodes in total / 4th season: 35 episodes in total
A dark fantasy anime drawn on a grand scale, in which the characters confront giant life forms that threaten humanity. Based on the blockbuster manga by Hajime Isayama, this work is a hot topic that has caused a social phenomenon all over the world.
In a world surrounded by huge walls, humanity is under threat from gigantic lifeforms called Titans that prey on humans. The main character, Eren Jaeger, loses his mother to a Colossal Titan that appears in his hometown, and vows revenge against the Titan.
Eren joins the Survey Corps with his childhood friends Mikasa and Armin, but soon discovers that he has the ability to transform into a titan. The grand secret surrounding humanity and the Titans and the mission entrusted to Eren will be revealed…
Its appeal lies in its intricate foreshadowing, unpredictable story development, and detailed world setting. It attracted many fans with its serious battle scenes and deep character depictions. This is a masterpiece recommended for those looking for an epic story and message.
Hell Girl – Studio Deen
Broadcast in 2005: 1st season: 26 episodes in total / 2nd season: 26 episodes in total / 3rd season: 26 episodes in total / 4th season: 12 episodes in total
A dark fantasy anime depicting Enma Ai, who sends the person she hates to hell by posting on the Hell News, which can only be accessed at midnight. It was aired for four seasons in an omnibus format that dealt with human grudges and hatred. It attracts many fans with its worldview that depicts the deep roots of grudges and the price they pay.
Enma Ai, a hellish girl who appears when you write your grudge on the Hell News. She will banish the person she hates to hell in place of her client, but it is a terrible contract that means those who sign the contract will also go to hell after death. A different episode of grudges unfolds each time, and modern themes such as interpersonal troubles and bullying issues are also dealt with.
As the story progresses, Ai Enma's sad past is revealed, and the story goes beyond a mere revenge story and develops into a deep human drama. The one-episode format makes it easy to watch, and many viewers find it refreshing to see the villains brought to justice.
A detailed composition that carefully depicts a profound worldview and the darkness of the human heart. This is a recommended anime for adults that will make you think about human nature and the chain of resentment.
・DVD
Fruit of Grisaia – Eightbit
Broadcast in 2014, total 13 episodes
This is an anime that depicts the emotional redemption of facing a heavy past through interactions with five girls who have “translations.” The original work is a visual novel produced by Front Wing, which won the Gold Prize in the Moe Game Awards 2011 Grand Prize Category, and is praised as a masterpiece that will leave its name in the history of bishoujo games.
Yuji Kazami transfers to Mihama Private Academy, where he meets five troubled girls. The beginning of the story has strong everyday comedy elements and depicts a light-hearted school life.
However, as each girl's episode unfolds, the serious traumas and painful pasts they carry are revealed. Yuji sincerely faces their emotional wounds and guides them towards salvation…
This work is attractive with its serious drama and unique characters, and is characterized by its profound storytelling that sets it apart from traditional school romance works. The deep message and psychological depiction of the original work are carefully expressed in the anime, allowing you to enjoy a moving human drama. This is a masterpiece anime recommended for those looking for a story that touches the heart.
Fafner of the Azure – XEBEC
Broadcast in 2004, total 26 episodes
A profound science fiction robot anime depicting boys and girls fighting against unknown life forms. An original work produced by XEBEC, it is highly acclaimed as a masterpiece of depression anime. The series has been developed for a long time, and many related works such as movie versions and OVAs have been produced.
The story is set in the near future, when humanity is on the verge of extinction due to a mysterious life form called Festum. Ikki Makabe and his friends were living peacefully on Ryugujima, a solitary island in the South Sea, when suddenly Festum attacked.
The boys and girls of the island are forced to board the humanoid weapon Fafner and fight against an overwhelming enemy. However, riding the Fafner comes with great risks, and his friends lose their lives one after another…
Throughout the series, the tragedy of war and human bonds are carefully depicted. Due to its deep themes and detailed worldview construction, it has gained strong support from many fans. This is a work recommended for those looking for a profound story and moving drama.
A comment from a writer
Even if you say it's a depressing anime, there are many different styles. There is a wide range of genres, from those with hopeless endings to those that provide deep emotion and catharsis. The key is to check the theme of the story and the type of ending in advance, and choose one that suits your tastes. Please refer to this article and find your favorite item.