5 Depressing Anime That Still Made You Come Back For More

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Anime, as a major part of the entertainment world, covers all sorts of different stories. Though some people dismiss it as just for kids, anime frequently explores complex themes and makes you think, just like any great story. While action-packed anime aimed at young boys is still the most popular type, more mature and darker series are gaining popularity with viewers.

Let’s explore some incredibly well-made anime that are also profoundly sad. These five series, spanning genres like romance, realistic fiction, and war, delve into themes of despair, but are so captivating that viewers find themselves wanting to keep watching despite the emotional toll. They’re difficult to stop watching because of how well they’re crafted.

5) I Want to Eat Your Pancreas

Despite its unusual title, *I Want to Eat Your Pancreas* isn’t a typical fantasy anime. It’s a touching romance that’s sure to stay with you. It’s the only film on this list focused on love, and while other anime might be even sadder, this one deserves praise for telling a deep and moving story about love and loss in just one feature-length movie. It truly leaves a lasting impression.

This anime tells the story of Haruki, who finds Sakura’s diary and uncovers a hidden part of her life. This discovery sparks a tender connection between them as they open up about their feelings and struggles. The story builds to a powerful and emotional ending that’s likely to make you cry. It’s a remarkably honest and realistic portrayal of love and loss, and it leaves you hoping for more stories told with such genuine emotion.

4) Dororo

MAPPA’s list of impactful anime includes more than just one emotionally heavy series. The 2019 version of *Dororo* is notable for its beautiful, modern animation and its consistently dark and serious mood, which keeps audiences engaged. The story takes place in feudal Japan and centers on Hyakkimaru, who was born missing body parts and senses because his father made a deal with demons for good fortune. The series follows Hyakkimaru’s journey to reclaim what was lost and find himself.

Hyakkimaru, who lost his body parts, manages to survive thanks to artificial replacements made by his father. He then sets out on a quest to get back what was stolen from him. As he recovers his limbs, the story cleverly highlights the tragic loss of his humanity. Along the way, he’s joined by a young boy named Dororo, and the series delivers a powerful emotional impact – it’s likely to be especially enjoyed by fans of the game *Sekiro*, who are hoping for an anime version.

3) Terror in Resonance

MAPPA’s anime series, *Terror in Resonance*, is notable for its excellent direction by Shinichirƍ Watanabe. But it’s the core story that really keeps people hooked, even as it becomes increasingly sad and emotionally difficult to watch. The show centers around a terrorist group called Sphinx, and while their actions initially seem like the main focus, the reveal that they are actually victims themselves makes the story powerfully captivating.

The series creates a disturbing emotional tension by making viewers feel sympathy for Sphinx, even though they know Sphinx’s actions aren’t right. Each episode reveals more about the mysteries surrounding Sphinx and their heartbreaking past, showing how they became who they are. With its captivating story and emotional depth, this eleven-episode series is incredibly hard to stop watching once you begin.

2) Grave of the Fireflies

I honestly don’t think anything could prepare you for watching *Grave of the Fireflies*. It’s a truly devastating film – probably the most heartbreaking I’ve ever seen, animated or otherwise. It’s more than just a story; it feels like a raw, honest look at the real suffering caused by war. The film is based on the author Akiyuki Nosaka’s own experiences, and it follows two orphaned siblings, Seita and Setsuko, as they desperately try to survive the final months of World War II.

The film is a deeply emotional experience, often bringing viewers to tears, especially as it ends and they reflect on how fortunate they are. What’s so powerful about the story is that even though you know how it ends, you can’t help but watch as the children struggle with increasing desperation for basic necessities like food, medicine, and a safe place to live. Ultimately, the film serves as a chilling reminder of the devastating consequences of war and the importance of preventing future conflicts.

1) Takopi’s Original Sin

Crunchyroll’s anime series *Takopi’s Original Sin* is known for being particularly bleak and emotionally heavy. The show deals with difficult themes like depression and suicide, and a shocking reveal in the first episode might be upsetting enough to make some viewers stop watching, especially those who are sensitive to these topics. What’s particularly disturbing is that the story explores these serious issues through the eyes of young children.

The series begins with a shocking and upsetting event – Shizuka’s suicide – which immediately grabs your attention and makes you want to know why it happened. As the story continues, even more tragic moments appear, forcing you to wonder how anyone, even children, could experience such deep sadness. Takopi’s Original Sin is a powerfully depressing anime that ultimately teaches a valuable lesson: accepting our past hurts is essential for healing and moving on with our lives.

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2025-10-15 16:14