Find here list of 10 highly acclaimed dark anime series that were considered among the best at that time. However, please note that there might have been newer releases or other outstanding dark anime series that have emerged since then. Here are the top 10 dark anime series.
Death Note
A psychological thriller where a high school student discovers a mysterious notebook that allows him to kill anyone whose name he writes in it.
Attack on Titan (Shingeki no Kyojin)
Set in a world where humanity is on the brink of extinction due to giant humanoid creatures known as Titans, this series explores dark themes and complex characters.
Tokyo Ghoul
Follows the story of Kaneki Ken, a college student who becomes a half-ghoul after a chance encounter with one, leading to a dark and violent path.
Berserk
An epic dark fantasy series that follows the journey of Guts, a lone mercenary seeking revenge in a brutal and unforgiving medieval world.
Paranoia Agent
A psychological thriller revolving around a mysterious assailant known as “Shonen Bat,” who attacks people’s psyche and forces them to confront their inner demons.
Neon Genesis Evangelion
A mecha series that delves into the psychological struggles of its main characters as they pilot giant robots to protect Earth from mysterious beings known as Angels.
Elfen Lied
A gory and emotionally intense series featuring a mutant girl with telekinetic powers, who escapes from a research facility and seeks revenge on humanity.
Puella Magi Madoka Magica
A dark twist on the magical girl genre, exploring the consequences of making contracts with a mysterious creature to become a magical girl.
Serial Experiments Lain
A surreal and thought-provoking series about a teenage girl named Lain and her experiences with the Wired, a global communications network.
Hellsing Ultimate
Follows the Hellsing Organization, led by Alucard, a powerful vampire, as they combat supernatural threats and dark forces.
These dark anime series offer compelling narratives, deep character development, and explore mature themes that set them apart from more typical anime fare. If you’re interested in delving into the darker side of anime, these series would be a great place to start.