Occasionally, a fantasy anime with a leisurely storyline, relaxed dungeon explorations, and fanciful creatures can serve as a pleasant diversion from everyday life. However, the ones you’re referring to might be less about escaping reality and more about reminding us why we appreciate our own lives. They depict universes so harsh that they make one grateful for living in our relatively peaceful world. Instead of being fantastical escapes, these worlds are characterized by pain, violence, moral dilemmas, and cosmic horrors.
Instead of shyly avoiding challenging themes, dark fantasy anime delve deeply into difficult subjects like fearsome beasts and demons, oppressive governments, treacherous landscapes, violent societies, harsh truths, and grim realities. They confront these issues directly, much like moldy bread and spoiled butter do with decay, crafting worlds that are often more nightmarish than anything reality could produce from its own dark side. Therefore, if you’re interested in watching series that tackle such intense themes, these ones definitely stand out as among the best choices.
10) Vampire in the Garden
For centuries, nearly invincible vampires have been causing havoc among humanity, forcing the survivors to seek refuge within a fortified city in an effort to stave off human extinction. In response, humans and vampires have waged war for years. Among these soldiers was Momo, who, upon meeting Fiine, the vampire queen, and witnessing her attempt to save Momo’s dearest friend from another vampire, defected from his people and vowed to follow Fiine back to her home. As they developed a bond, Momo and Fiine embarked on a quest to discover a rumored utopia where humans and vampires can coexist peacefully, despite doubts about its existence. Throughout their journey, they are pursued by members of both their former factions.
In my experience, “Vampire in the Garden,” a compact five-episode series, offers a captivating blend of political tension, monster clashes, and quests for unity amidst contrasting factions. As an observer, I can confidently say that this dark fantasy is perfect if you’re in the mood for a quick yet engaging binge, especially for those with a penchant for the classic vampire narrative.
Vampire in the Garden can be streamed on Netflix.
9) The Witcher: Sirens of the Deep
In the coastal village of Bremervoord, Geralt – a modified hunter known as a Witcher – begins his latest assignment. The villagers believe a monstrous creature, either an allamorax or a vodnik, is responsible for a string of attacks, and they’ve hired Geralt to investigate. However, Geralt soon discovers he’s right in the middle of an ancient feud between humans and merfolk. Accompanied by his bard friend Jaskier and Essi Daven, also known as “Little Eye”, the Witcher must untangle this mystery before the simmering tension between the two realms erupts into war and violent conflict.
This animated movie was jointly produced by Netflix along with animation studios Studio Mir, Studio IAM, Platige Image, and Hivemind. It’s a spin-off from Andrzej Sapkowski’s short story “A Little Sacrifice”. Although some might be skeptical about an anime version of one of The Witcher tales, it’s quite possible that this adaptation could surpass the way Netflix handled the live-action portrayal of Geralt of Rivia, also known as the Butcher of Blaviken.
The Witcher: Sirens of the Deep can be streamed on Netflix.
8) Drifters
In a swift succession of events, Toyohisa Shimazu is gravely injured during the Battle of Sekigahara in 1600, only to find himself transported into an ethereal, white-walled corridor adorned with countless doors. There, he encounters a enigmatic figure named Murasaki. In another sudden shift, Toyohisa is ushered through one of these doors, leading him to a surreal world filled with other historical warriors – including the notorious warlord Nobunaga Oda and the legendary archer Yoichi Suketaka Nasu – all drawn from different eras and circumstances. United by their unusual predicament, they come to be known as Drifters, finding purpose in the struggle against the Orte Empire, a faction comprised of the Ends, who are oppressing non-humans. The Drifters, led by Toyohisa, rise up against the Orte Empire, embracing their new world as a battleground for conflict and camaraderie.
As a die-hard fan of Kouta Hirano’s work, especially his masterpiece Hellsing, I can attest that Drifters does not disappoint when it comes to action and violence! Unlike some who might argue that the premise isn’t as obvious as having literal Nazis, Hirano proves once again he doesn’t shy away from the gory. The characters in this series are warriors through and through, always ready for a fight no matter what realm they find themselves in. So if you’re up for a dose of bloodshed and brutality, Drifters is definitely worth diving into!
7) Claymore
In a small village, tormented by a terrifying creature known as a Youma, a solitary swordswoman makes her appearance with the intent to eliminate it. However, this woman is unlike any other knight; she’s a Claymore – a being that’s half-human and half-Youma, designed to eradicate such monsters. After sparing Raki from sharing the same demonic fate that claimed his family, Raki finds himself banished by his own village due to fears he too might become a Youma. Now bound together, Raki and the Claymore, Clare, embark on a journey to annihilate Youmas, uncover secrets surrounding the Claymore, and as layers of Clare’s motivations peel away.
In the realm of dark fantasy, a solitary knight wielding only a sword as a mercenary slaying demons is a common theme. However, *Claymore* offers a unique and brutally raw story experience, setting itself apart with its own collection of unsettlingly intense, violent obstacles.
Claymore can be streamed on Crunchyroll.
6) Clevatess
Alicia, who had always harbored dreams of becoming a hero since she was just a little girl, saw those dreams become reality when the king finally selected her as one. Armed with a legendary sword, she united with the other handpicked twelve heroes to confront Demon King Clevatess. However, their premature self-assurance led to disaster as they encountered the harsh truth of both their fallen comrades and the immense power of their enemy. Now, an ominous predicament arises that threatens the extinction of all humanity, and the destiny of the continent Edsea rests on the shoulders of a mere infant placed in the care of none other than the Demon King bent on its destruction.
In the beginning, Clevatess presents a grim picture with destruction ravaging the landscape and its people, offering a unique take on dark fantasy. However, this narrative takes an unexpected turn when the mighty Demon King, sworn to annihilate humanity, finds himself in a caretaker role for an infant. This sets Clevatess on a path exploring the raw truths of human existence – even delving into the challenges of changing diapers.
Clevatess can be streamed on Crunchyroll.
5) Puella Magi Madoka Magica
When Madoka Kaname, a junior high school student, along with her friend Sayaka Miki, come across a cat-like magical creature named Kyuubey, they’re presented with an intriguing deal: A wish in exchange for transforming into magical girls to combat witches. However, Homura Akemi, a transfer student and one of the magical girls herself, cautions them about this proposition. Mami Tomoe, an upperclassman who is also a magical girl, invites Madoka and Sayaka on a witch-hunting expedition so they can make their own decisions. During these supernatural confrontations with the witches, Madoka and Sayaka quickly realize that the concept of becoming magical girls isn’t as it appears.
As an observer, I must admit that when considering dark fantasy anime, the image of enchanting girls might not immediately cross my mind. However, upon delving into Puella Magi Madoka Magica, or simply known as Madoka Magica, this series undeniably proves to be a fascinating exception. Though it falls under the magical girl genre, its unconventional approach, gruesome monsters, and somber themes make it a far cry from the typical light-hearted fare. Thus, I’d suggest that only those with a strong constitution should venture into this intriguing anime world.
Puella Magi Madoka Magica is available for streaming on Hulu and Crunchyroll.
4) Goblin Slayer
Despite their seemingly harmless reputation, I’ve encountered goblins who wreak havoc and abduct women across various species for nefarious purposes. Yet, these low-level beasts are often disregarded by adventurers chasing after bigger bounties. However, a 15-year-old Priestess and her rookie team were swiftly outmatched when they attempted to deal with some goblins. But when the esteemed Silver rank Goblin Slayer arrived on the scene, he rescued the Priestess and annihilated the entire horde of goblins. Intrigued by his skills, she decided to join him in his relentless quest to eradicate these overlooked, detestable creatures. Together with a High Elf, Dwarf, and Lizardman, we, under the leadership of the Goblin Slayer, won’t cease our pursuit until these undesirable beings are no more.
In various forms of media, goblins are frequently underestimated as a danger, being seen as simple targets for earning combat experience. However, unlike other productions that mainly focus on more imposing or pressing dangers, the series Goblin Slayer demonstrates how disregarding seemingly minor threats can lead to numerous issues.
Goblin Slayer can be streamed on Crunchyroll.
3) Akame ga Kill!
In a nation plagued by poverty, conflict, and devastation due to a self-serving Prime Minister exploiting an inexperienced child ruler, Tatsumi embarks on a journey to the capital with the aim of raising funds for his struggling village. However, the innocent rural boy encounters firsthand the merciless and unscrupulous nature of the upper class. Subsequently recruited into Night Raid, the secret assassination wing of the Revolutionary Army, Tatsumi vows to instigate change through violence. Alongside a team of revolutionary assassins, they engage in a relentless battle to dismantle the oppressive empire, yet at the expense of their personal principles, ethics, and potentially even their lives. Eventually, they may have to confront repercussions for their actions as well.
In many anime, whether fantasy or not, there’s an unusual tendency to portray violence as acceptable when it’s directed against a universally recognized villain, monster, or antagonist. While the ruling power in “Akame ga Kill!” is indeed comprised of truly heinous individuals, the plot doesn’t shy away from exploring the repercussions, emotional turmoil, and moral quandaries that come with meting out vigilante justice.
Akame ga Kill! can be streamed on HIDIVE or Hulu where available.
2) Made in Abyss
On an isolated island resides the population of Orth City, perched on the brink of a gigantic abyss, known as the Abyss. With its otherworldly beings, unique ecosystems, and hidden riches shrouding this vertical terrain in mystery, explorers and locals have spent thousands of years attempting to solve its riddles. However, when Riko, a novice Red Whistle Delver, encounters an enigmatic robot boy, she finds the motivation to descend into the abyss in search of her missing White Whistle mother. Alongside her new companions, they muster the bravery to confront the perils lurking within the chasm that threatens to engulf them.
Exploring the depths of ‘Made in Abyss’ is ideal for those seeking adventure into the unknown. Despite its playful, chibi-style appearance, it’s far from simple – the layers of mystery and emotional turmoil grow just like the diverse alien landscapes and creatures as a brave band of companions venture further, unraveling the enigmas hidden within the Abyss.
Made in Abyss can be streamed on Prime or HIDIVE where available.
1) Berserk
Originally a lone wanderer armed with a massive sword, Guts – often referred to as a mercenary – usually operates independently. However, an unexpected defeat in combat against the charismatic and power-hungry Griffith, the founder and leader of the infamous Band of the Hawk, leads to his enlistment within their troop. Over the span of three years, Guts rises through the ranks to become a commander within this group he’s grown fond of. The combination of Guts’ tremendous power and Griffith’s leadership makes the Band of the Hawk a force to be reckoned with on the battlefield. Regrettably, as Griffith harbors a hidden, selfish motive, their victories in combat eventually exact a heavy toll.
There’s no beating around the bush: “Berserk” isn’t a light-hearted fantasy. Instead, it embodies what fans often associate with dark, particularly grimdark, fantasy series. The story is set in a world on the brink of collapse, and just about every horrific event imaginable occurs – whether by vicious monsters or cunning humans.
https://comicbook.com/anime/news/crunchyroll-dark-fantasy-anime-clevatess-berserk-successor/embed/#
Read More
- Minecraft lets you get the Lava Chicken song in-game — but it’s absurdly rare
- Gold Rate Forecast
- PS5’s ChinaJoy Booth Needs to Be Seen to Be Believed
- Lewis Capaldi Details “Mental Episode” That Led to Him “Convulsing”
- Wrestler Marcus “Buff” Bagwell Undergoes Leg Amputation
- Cyberpunk 2077’s Patch 2.3 is Here and It’s Another Excellent Overhaul
- Elden Ring Nightreign’s Patch 1.02 update next week is adding a feature we’ve all been waiting for since launch — and another I’ve been begging for, too
- Microsoft is on track to become the second $4 trillion company by market cap, following NVIDIA — and mass layoffs
- Rob Schneider’s Happy Gilmore 2 Role Is Much Different Than We Thought It’d Be
- AI-powered malware eludes Microsoft Defender’s security checks 8% of the time — with just 3 months of training and “reinforcement learning” for around $1,600
2025-08-20 20:30