5 Darkest Anime of 2025, Ranked

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As 2025 wraps up, let’s take a look back at the year in anime. Fans enjoyed a mix of new shows, continuing favorites, and the finale of My Hero Academia. It was a diverse and exciting year for anime!

Anime fans enjoy a variety of shows, but this year, dark anime really stood out. Crunchyroll released one of its most intense series ever, and viewers also saw a surprisingly dark shonen anime – plus a seemingly sweet and innocent show with hidden, darker layers. Here are five anime that grabbed attention with their unexpected darkness.

5) Spy x Family Season 3

From the beginning, the Spy x Family anime hasn’t been a grim or serious show, but it always hinted at deeper, more tragic themes. Even the seemingly cheerful Anya has a sad past. The latest season finally revealed the truth about Anya’s adoptive father, Loid Forger, and in doing so, showed just how much darkness lies beneath the surface of the series.

Loid’s history shows how the trauma of war turned him into the skilled spy he’s become. This part of his story is incredibly serious and realistic, a stark contrast to the show’s usual lighthearted and comedic style. This unexpectedly dark turn makes Spy x Family one of the most emotionally resonant and profound anime series this year, demonstrating real depth in its narrative.

4) Lord of Mysteries

As its title hints, Lord of Mysteries is packed with intriguing secrets, and many fans are comparing it to China’s version of One Piece. While it initially appears to be a typical isekai anime, the story quickly proves to be much more complex and engaging. Its detailed world and unique mix of cosmic horror create a visually stunning and thought-provoking experience that sets it apart.

Lord of the Mysteries doesn’t shy away from dark themes, but they’re presented subtly and consistently, rather than being over-the-top. This creates a deeply immersive and slightly disturbing atmosphere that makes the series truly captivating and rewarding to watch.

3) Gachiakuta

Modern shonen anime often explores mature and serious topics, and Gachiakuta is a prime example. The show quickly grabs attention with its grim setting and realistic depiction of hardship, but it’s the main character who really represents the story’s most challenging and unsettling aspects.

Rudo stands out from most heroes in action-packed anime because he’s motivated by revenge and isn’t afraid to take extreme measures. This willingness to go further than others gives the story a unique and exciting feel. By fearlessly tackling mature themes that many similar anime avoid, Gachiakuta proves itself to be a truly exceptional dark shonen anime that all fans of the genre should experience.

2) The Summer Hikaru Died

Every summer, a new anime often appears that beautifully embodies the feeling of the season and the Japanese concept of mysterious, unseen forces. The Summer Hikaru Died is a prime example. While it’s definitely a horror anime with dark themes, its true power is how easily it draws you into its story and world.

This anime takes place on a secluded island where disturbing things start happening, creating a consistently creepy and suspenseful atmosphere. The story focuses on captivating characters and how their bond grows stronger after facing tragedy, adding real emotional depth. If you enjoy dark anime with significant horror themes, The Summer Hikaru Died is a perfect pick.

1) Takopi’s Original Sins

It’s clear that Takopi’s Original Sins is the most disturbing anime of 2025, and probably one of the darkest in recent memory. The series deals with difficult topics like suicide, murder, bullying, and depression, and the fact that these themes are explored through the eyes of children around ten years old makes it even more impactful and unsettling.

This anime is a truly impactful and dark series. Each surprising turn leaves a strong impression, prompting viewers to consider the complex emotions of childhood. It’s been highly praised for its excellent quality, becoming the first show ever to consistently achieve over 9 stars on IMDb for every episode. Many consider it a masterpiece – not just the darkest anime of 2025, but potentially one of the darkest in recent years.

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2025-11-28 16:12