The 40 Goriest & Most Violent Anime Ever For Splatter Lovers

If you love violence and gore, this is the place for you. Nihonime has compiled the ultimate list that any anime fan should read to enjoy if they want to push themselves.

We present to you the best anime that truly embrace gore and free violence with some splatter.

A good chunk of the anime here ranges from the ’80s up to the 2010s and you will see how the depiction of violence in anime has evolved over time.

We are not sure if you should grab some popcorn because what you’re about to witness will be quite intense, but prepare to add some new titles to your watchlist.

40. Mad Bull 34

Mad Bull 34

A story set in New York City in which young Japanese-American policeman Daizaburo “Eddie” Ban” meets a ruthless police veteran.

In this anime it’s not the protagonist who perpetrates violence but his partner. “Mad Bull” is the nickname of Eddie’s partner and he tackles crime in his precinct with unprecedented cruelty.

An adult tale that shows a cross-section of what goes on in impoverished neighborhoods left to their own devices

This is another example of ultra-violent ’90s anime and you can even tell by the qualify of this production. Mad Bull 34 isn’t anything special and can aim to be one of your guilty pleasures.

There isn’t one thing to save in this show but its comedy and level of cheesiness.

39. High School of the Dead

High School of the Dead

High School of the Dead is a super popular zombie anime released in 2010 packed with gore, zombies and ecchi.

In High School of the Dead, a mysterious deadly disease has spread throughout the world, with catastrophic repercussions for humanity, resulting in attacks caused by the living dead, called Them.

A group of high school students in Japan has banded together to escape the zombie onslaught, while also trying to figure out who or what is responsible for the ongoing apocalypse.

High School of the Dead is, well… we’re not quite sure.

If you want a straightforward, unpretentious anime with no shortage of zombie-type gore and ecchi content, then it might be one of the top picks overall.

But as an anime in the broader sense, unless you specifically seek those elements, we can’t quite label it as a masterpiece either.

38. The Future Diary (Mirai Nikki)

Future Diary

The Future Diary, released in 2012, is a highly popular anime that combines psychological romance with survival game elements and some intense gore scenes.

The story follows Yukiteru Amano, an introverted and despairing boy who uses his cell phone diary to communicate with his imaginary friend, Deus Ex Machina, the god of time.

But when Deus suddenly gains consciousness and starts predicting the future, a deadly survival game begins.

Participants must eliminate each other and destroy their opponents’ future diaries in order to become the new god of time and space.

The Future Diary has gained a lot of popularity due to its incredibly intense scenes that will leave you on the edge of your seat.

And if you ask for our opinion, it’s not a top-quality show but can be a good introduction for novices. The keyword here is “warped love”.

37. Terra Formars

Terraformars

Terra Formars is a show from 2014 with 13 episodes, falling into the action, Sci-Fi, and horror genres, based on a manga with the same name.

In the year 2599, the process of transforming Mars into a livable planet is almost done.

Fifteen young individuals, selected for the crucial role of monitoring the situation, set out on a spaceship to reach the planet.

But upon their arrival, they encounter something entirely unforeseen: the cockroaches that were initially introduced by humans centuries ago for starting life have evolved into terrible humanoid creatures, far from being harmless.

This series is definitely unique. It’s quite debated, with some finding it good and others suggesting to avoid it.

What we can say is that it’s packed with gore, horror, and scenes that will make you jump, so it has all you’re looking for.

36. Wicked City

Wicked City

Wicked City is a story that oscillates between horror and dark fantasy in which gore and sexuality are pivotal themes of the anime.

It’s set in an alternate dimension called Black World in a precarious peace, protected by the Black Guards, a kind of police apparatus that protects both sides.

While Kawajiri, the movie director, is one of the best out there, we can’t say this anime is really good. Most of the scenes look like pure degeneration but without a clear reason other than depicting violence.

Wicked City isn’t just gore because there are some comedy intermezzos that can make some people laugh. Give it a try if you are a big fan of Kawajiri, else this is a hard pass.

35. Tokyo Ghoul

Tokyo ghoul

Tokyo Ghoul is the animated adaptation of Sui Ishida’s popular horror manga of the same name, with the first season released in 2014 followed by 2 more.

The story focuses on Ken Kaneki, an ordinary college student who lives in a town plagued by strange and violent murders.

The agents suspect that the deaths are caused by Ghouls, mysterious creatures that feed on the bodies of their victims, but nobody has seen them yet.

We have expressed our opinion on Tokyo Ghoul multiple times: it’s a fantastic manga with a great story, but with an animated adaptation that falls short, cutting some parts and inventing others.

So it’s totally up to you to decide if you want to experience this work through the animated series, the manga or even both.

34. Goblin Slayer

Goblin Slayer

Goblin Slayer is a series from 2018 with 12 episodes, based on a light novel.

A young cleric teams up with a group of new adventurers who want to get rid of a group of goblins, known as some of the weakest creatures around.

However, due to their lack of experience, they suffer a big defeat. Luckily, they are rescued by the Goblin Slayer, a skilled warrior focused on killing goblins.

The cleric decides to join him, starting a journey that won’t be simple at all.

If you’re into fantasy worlds, adventure, all along with a mix of gore and violence, Goblin Slayer is a good choice that you won’t regret.

33. Shiki

Shiki

Shiki is a great horror and mystery anime that was released in 2010 with a total of 22 episodes.

The anime’s plot revolves around Dr. Toshio, who is investigating a mysterious epidemic that has struck a small village.

But things become increasingly strange as the number of deaths rises. Is it really an epidemic or the deaths are connected to some supernatural entities?

Shiki is a good show if you want a horror anime that’s scary and gory. It also has a mysterious plot and even some romance, so we highly recommend it to you.

32. Another

Another

Another is a 2012 anime adapted in 12 episodes from a light novel that perfectly fits into this list.

Another tells the adventures of Mei and Koichi, two students at Japan’s Yomiyama North High School, who investigate to end a curse that has plagued their school for 26 years.

This curse will lead the two protagonists to encounter paranormal phenomena and to discover, as the solution to the mystery approaches, disturbing secrets that will change their lives forever.

We’re confident that Another will captivate you with its mix of horror, suspenseful moments, and graphic scenes that will leave a lasting impression on you.

If you’re interested in a series that leans towards mystery and investigation, then Another is definitely worth considering.

31. Gantz

Gantz

Gantz is an anime series based on a popular seinen manga and is known for its horror and intense gore elements, as well as the presence of horror and mature scenes.

The story of Gantz revolves around Kei Kurono, a young boy who meets his demise after being struck by a train. However, instead of dying, he wakes up with a perfectly healthy body and is forced to participate in a game-like competition.

Kei and other recently deceased individuals are tasked with hunting down and eliminating aliens using advanced weaponry in order to ensure their own survival.

Gantz is an intense survival game anime filled with graphic scenes, gore, and horror, and it should be noted that it is intended for an adult and mature audience.

But if you are specifically looking for this kind of content, Gantz is simply an excellent choice.

30. Akame ga Kill!

Akame ga Kill

Akame ga Kill! is a dark and politically-driven story that follows a young boy named Tatsumi, who joins the Night Raid, a covert assassination branch of the Revolutionary Army fighting to overthrow the corrupted Prime Minister.

This series is a great choice if you’re seeking a dark and violent anime with a lot of deaths and often not exactly family-friendly.

However, it’s worth mentioning that the anime differs significantly from the manga, especially when it comes to the conclusion.

So, if you’re curious about the complete story, make sure to explore the original source material as well.

There are some key differences between the anime and the manga since the first one had to finish before the original source.

29. Baki

Baki is a fighting anime that came out in various seasons beginning in 2001 that successfully managed to build a dedicated fanbase.

Baki Hanma is a young guy who loves street fighting. One day, he learns that his dad, Yujiro Hanma, known as the world’s strongest man, killed his mom.

So, Baki is determined to train hard in martial arts to get his revenge.

Baki is a fantastic series we suggest if you’re looking for an anime primarily centered on fighting and action, with less emphasis on intricate plots or drama.

It’s the go-to choice if you’re after a series packed with intense fights and bravado driven by violence, and we couldn’t find better terms to describe it.

28. Claymore

Claymore

Claymore is a 26-episode anime set in a dark medieval fantasy-themed world where the inhabitants are forced to fight the threat of monstrous creatures that feed on humans.

Fighting these creatures, called Yomi, are the Claymores, warriors with enormous power who can counter the terrible monsters with their swords.

The protagonist of the story is Claire, a low-level claymore who will increase her fighting power over time as she discovers the deceptions behind the Yomi and the society in which she lives.

Claymore is a great anime based on an equally fantastic manga that we indeed recommend checking out after you finish the anime for more.

It’s a dark fantasy story with lots of twists, intense parts, and characters that change a lot as the story goes on, all along with gore scenes that perfectly fits in the context.

27. Corpse Party

Corpse Party: Tortured Souls is a 2013 OAV series consisting of only 4 episodes that are will leave you feeling queasy for a while.

The story revolves around a group of 8 boys and their teacher who decide to perform a spell they found on the Internet, hoping to be bound together forever.

But the spell goes horribly wrong, transporting them to a parallel dimension inside a school where gruesome murders are occurring.

Will they find a way to safely return home?

Corpse Party doesn’t hold back on gore, it’s all about the gore.

While there are thriller elements, the story serves as a pretext to showcase a rapid succession of splatter scenes that might make your stomach churn.

But if that’s precisely what you’re looking for, without much concern for plot and setting, it’s a perfect choice.

26. Jin-Roh: The Wolf Brigade

Jin Roh

Jin-Roh: The Wolf Brigade is a political thriller anime that came out in 1999, and is a masterpiece by Mamoru Oshii.

The plot takes place in an alternative version of Japan during the ’50s and revolves around the protagonist Kazuki Fuse, who is a member of the Kerberos Panzer Cops, a counter-terrorist organization.

Kazui’s inner self is put to test when he refuses to shoot a young terrorist that ends up detonating a bomb in front of him. She killed herself in the process and damaged the reputation of the Kerberos.

He visits the girl at the cemetery and meets her sister by chance. The 2 begin to develop a weird and complex relationship.

Meanwhile, a sinister conspiracy is brewing deep in the labyrinth of the police system, pitting a secret group of extremists against the politically inclined bureaucrats of the police force.

Jin-Roh doesn’t hide its violent nature because right from the start of the movie we are treated to bloody scenes involving the police suppressing a riot.

This movie isn’t as violent as others because it’s focused on Kazuki’s struggle rather than depicting extreme violence.

25. Deadman Wonderland

Deadman Wonderland

Deadman Wonderland is a 12-episode survival game anime that was released in 2011, based on the manga series by Jinsei Kataoka.

The story follows Ganta Igarashi, the protagonist, and his classmates as they visit an amusement park called Deadman Wonderland during a field trip.

However, a mysterious man brutally murders Ganta’s classmates, and Ganta is framed for the crime. He is then imprisoned in the very facility he was meant to visit.

Inside Deadman Wonderland, Ganta discovers that it is not an ordinary prison but a place where inmates are forced to participate in deadly games in order to survive.

Deadman Wonderland is just as it sounds: a survival game anime filled with intense moments and a lot of gore scenes.

24. Blood +

Blood +

Blood + is a horror and action anime that was released in 2005 with 50 episodes making it a moderate success.

It follows the story of Saya Otonashi, a high school student who has lost her memory and is tasked with fighting the Chiropterans, a race of blood-sucking monsters.

Along with a young cellist named Hagi, Saya sets out to find her true identity and uncover the mysteries of her past.

We’re not talking about a masterpiece here, and indeed, Blood + doesn’t intend to be one.

Its goal is to be an action-violence-based anime with a well-written romance subplot that you can watch to unwind and simply enjoy some gory action.

23. Elfen Lied

Elfen Lied

Elfen Lied is a seinen manga-based anime that gained notoriety in the 2000s for its controversial and gory elements.

The story starts in a lab where Diclonius, a race of beings with special abilities, are subjected to brutal experiments to make them lethal weapons.

The events begin to move with Lucy, one of the Diclonius, escaping the base, but after suffering a violent head injury, she loses her memory.

She is later found by a boy named Kota with a connection to her past, and that’s where the plot begins.

If you are looking for a series that is gory and doesn’t shy away from showing intense graphic scenes, then Elfen Lied is undoubtedly a good choice.

22. Cyber City Oedo 808

Cyber City Oedo 808

Cyber City Oedo 808 is a three-episode OAV series set in a criminal cyberpunk world. It’s packed with action and breathtaking plot twists, all delivered at an intense pace due to its short duration.

Taking place in the year 2808, the story follows 3 inmates sentenced to 295 to 375 years in prison who are given a chance to reduce their sentences by cooperating with the police.

This agreement is offered by the head of the cyber police, Hasegawa, and for each successful mission they complete, they earn a sentence reduction.

The special feature and strength of Cyber City Oedo 808 lie in its ability to immerse the viewer in the minds of the protagonists, who are nothing but desperate men unwilling to relinquish their one chance at freedom.

And this is even if it means resorting to brutal violence.

This quality makes this mini-series perfect if you wish for a short but intense rush of adrenaline that will leave a lasting impact on you.

21. Gungrave

Gungrave

Gungrave is a 26-episode anime is based on a videogame, and is proof that while most of them turn out mediocre at best, some of them turn out pretty decent.

The protagonist Brandon Heat awakens after a state of oblivion, bewildered and in need of constant care because of his condition, making him an unstoppable and cold killing machine.

He remembers nothing of his past life, let alone who he was before falling into that deep sleep. Indeed, every time he tries to make his way through his memories he falls prey to deep crisis and suffering.

Gungrave is clearly not a masterpiece of writing or directing, but if you are looking for a good anime with a cold-hearted protagonist (link) and lots of action, this is a solid choice.

20. Boogiepop Phantom

Boogiepop Phantom

Boogiepop Phantom is a 12-episode anime in the fantasy, horror, and mystery genre, released in 2000 and based on a light novel.

The story revolves around a small town where, 5 years after a series of murders, mysterious cases of student disappearances begin to occur, bringing back memories of the past horrors.

And soon these events lead to encounters with Boogiepop, the God of Death.

The anime was highly successful at the time, praised for its complex and fleshed-out characters, as well as the author’s extensive research that went into creating the work.

And the result of this is an incredibly deep and must-watch story that unfolds seamlessly.

And for you fans of gore, there are also several explicit scenes that fit perfectly within the series’ setting and atmosphere.

19. Ajin

Ajin: Demi-Human

Ajin is an anime from 2016 with 26 episodes that often doesn’t get the recognition it deserves. You can watch it currently on Netflix.

The story is set in a world where mysterious immortal humans known as Ajin are viewed as a threat to society and hunted down by authorities worldwide.

The protagonist is high school student Kei Nagai, who survives a near-death experience and discovers that he himself is an Ajin.

Forced to radically change his life and evade capture by the entire world, Kei’s story is one of survival against all odds.

Ajin is a really good anime, especially if you’re into darker shows with mystery, action, psychology, and yes, a lot of gore and graphic scenes.

Just to let you know, the animation” is entirely done with CGI and not the most modern one.

We enjoyed Ajin as a whole but we confess that some viewers may not be used to this bizarre style.

18. Higurashi: When They Cry

When they Cry

Higurashi: When They Cry is a series that simply could not be missing from this list for one simple reason: without hiding it, this series does not simply have gore, but it relies on it.

The plot follows Keiichi Maebara and his friends who live in Hinamizawa, a small village plagued by a macabre curse linked to the worship of a local god, Oyashiro.

But as the protagonists begin to investigate the town’s mysteries, the situation escalates, and various characters commit terrible acts as the truth is revealed.

Higurashi: When They Cry is packed, to put it mildly, with gore scenes that will turn your stomach and it can be quite bothersome to watch.

Although we think that its gore is overrated, it can be too much for those who are not used to it.

17. Dorohedoro

Dorohedoro

Dorohedoro is an eccentric manga series created by Q Hayashida, which was serialized starting in 1999 and then adapted into an anime only in 2020.

The protagonist, Cayman, wakes up with a reptilian head and no memory of who he is or how he got there.

He sets out on a journey to the town of Hole, populated by powerful demons and sorcerers, to uncover the mystery behind his appearance with the help of his friend Nikaido.

Dorohedoro is… weird. It has a lot of dark humor, scenes that make you go what did I just see? and action with blood. But this oddness is what makes it special and unique.

But although the anime is good, we recommend checking out the manga for an even better experience.

16. Hell’s Paradise

Hell’s Paradise is one of the latest anime releases, with its first season just recently concluding.

The legendary ninja Gabimaru, who people think can’t die, is in prison waiting for an executioner to kill him with no will to live anymore. But then, when an executioner named Asaemon comes and offers him a deal.

If Gabimaru goes on a dangerous mission to find the secret of eternal life in a magical place, he might be able to see his wife, the only light in his dark life, again. This makes him remember his past, reigniting his will.

Hell’s Paradise is an action/combat anime adapted from a manga featured in Shonen Jump. However, it delves into more mature themes compared to other similar series, so wait before labeling it.

Although its plot might seem simple, it’s far from ordinary, just like its premise.

What truly stands out are the characters, the breathtaking settings, and the captivating action scenes that don’t back up when it comes to showing violence and gore.

15. Genocyber

Genocyber

It’s hard to find productions with a higher rate of gore and violence than this anime.

This is a story with a cyberpunk heart, in which large private corporations threaten the newly found peace among the nations of the world.

The Genocyber is a terrifying war machine that combines the strength of two sisters with psychic powers. A robot capable of destroying our planet.

Genocyber isn’t beloved by the general public, but it is known to all admirers of splatter. This anime features bloody scenes with a very high rate of violence, often considered gratuitous.

While there is plenty of violence, this anime is terrible in every other aspect, characters and plot included.

Consider watching it if you want an experience similar to that of a B movie and if you love trash.

14. Basilisk – Kouga Ninpou Chou

Basilisk

Basilisk is an anime from 2005 that, like other shows on this list, falls within the genre of intense anime set in feudal Japan, featuring violence, honor, and dark elements.

The story centers around two rival ninja clans, Iga and Koga, who have been locked in a long-standing conflict. The fragile peace is maintained only by a non-aggression order issued by the Shogunate.

However, tensions escalate when forbidden love blossoms between two individuals from opposing clans. Matters come to a head when the Shogun commands the clans to select their finest warriors for a tournament to determine the victor and end the dispute.

Basilisk is an excellent anime that is full of exciting and raw sword fights and unexpected plot twists.

If you’re a fan of the sword-fighting anime genre and want to watch something that’s focused on action in a beautiful setting of feudal Japan, then Basilisk is an excellent choice that you’ll love.

13. Fist of the North Star

One of the greatest classics of Japanese animation set in a post-apocalyptic universe. It takes inspiration from a manga series that originally came out in the ’80s.

This masterpiece invented the diesel-punk genre and starred one of the most iconic protagonists of the medium, Kenshiro.

Our hero wanders to a post-apocalyptic wasteland on a quest to track down his rival, Shin, who has kidnapped his beloved fiancée Yuria

The drift of humanity is portrayed beautifully with grotesque characters and distorted senses of justice, but the shocking violence stands out above it all.

Thanks to its grotesque and exaggerated design, the rawness of the fights is even better.

12. Shigurui

Shigurui

Shigurui is a 2007 anime comprising 12 episodes that presents a samurai tale that is as realistic as it is dark and violent.

Set in the year 1629 of feudal Japan, the story revolves around the renowned warrior Kogan Iwamoto, who has earned legendary status through his exceptional swordsmanship.

As time passes, Iwamoto grows old and realizes the need to appoint a successor to inherit his deadly techniques and marry his daughter.

Among the candidates, Gennosuke and Seigen emerge as the most promising, both sharing a deep passion for the sword but differing greatly in their backgrounds. But little do they know that a dark and treacherous path awaits them.

Shigurui stands out as a samurai anime that boasts incredible historical accuracy, immersing viewers in a world of honor and customs that will make them feel connected to the events unfolding.

All with that gory touch typical of dark samurai tales, so we’re sure that you’ll absolutely love it. The only downfall is that there is no Season 2 and we recommend you also check the manga out.

11. Inuyashiki

Inuyashiki is an 11-episode anime that shares its perspective between two great main characters.

Ichiro Inuyashiki is a 58-year-old man down on his luck after finding out that he has stomach cancer. Ignored by his family when he tries to tell them, he goes to a nearby park with his dog and despairs about his situation.

Hiro Shishigami is an ordinary high school boy who spends his days talking about girls and manga. He also sometimes roams around aimlessly, looking for something missing inside.

Tragedy struck them as they are caught in an accident in the park after being hit by aliens that reconstructed their entire bodies using deadly machinery. What will they do now with their newfound capabilities?

Inuyashiki is a criminally underrated anime that hides a unique and excellent story, even though it cuts a lot of material from the manga.

The best aspect of this anime is definitely the dualism between the two MCs: Inuyashiki is an old man with nothing to lose, who will use his powers for good to make sense of his empty life.

Hiro, on the other hand, will use them selfishly and sickly, using them to kill for fun and bring chaos to the world.

The very first episodes show Hiro’s delusions at their peak with free violence and evil.

10. Afro Samurai

Afro Samurai

Afro Samurai is a 5-episode anime produced by Gonzo studio and based on Takashi Okazaki’s manga of the same name.

In the world of Afro Samurai, warriors are ranked based on a hierarchy, and a distinctive sash identifies the first-ranked warrior. Only the second-ranked warrior can challenge the first to claim their position.

As a child, Afro witnessed the tragic death of his father, the former No. 1, at the hands of Justice the Gunslinger, leaving him with a burning desire for revenge. Now grown up, Afro embarks on a journey to climb the ranks and avenge his father.

Afro Samurai is a short, raw and intense series full of gore and moments when blood will flow like rivers.

But if you ask for our opinion, the real reason Afro Samurai must be watched is its breathtaking soundtrack, which even won an Emmy.

Its music rap and soul music combined with breathtaking action scenes make this anime a real experience.

9. Berserk

Berserk

There’s no need for extensive introductions when it comes to Berserk, right? Kentaro Miura’s prime creation is now widely recognized as one of the most magnificent masterpieces in the history of this medium, and that says a lot.

We’ll talk about the 1997 vintage animated series, which is widely considered as the best among the available versions.

As many already know, Berserk delves into the story of Guts, the black warrior, as he struggles with his relentless quest for revenge against Griffith, his former best friend turned nemesis.

Berserk unfolds as a remarkable tale of betrayal, vengeance, growth, war, and particularly stands out as one of the most mature and intense series you can come across.

And clearly, this also extends to the visual violence, which certainly isn’t sparing. Berserk isn’t only about physical harm but also psychological trauma, making it a true example of rawness.

8. Made in Abyss

Made in Abyss

Made in Abyss is an amazing and maybe even a bit underrated anime that was released in multiple seasons starting in 2017.

The plot follow the adventures of Riko, a 12-year-old girl who lives in the Belchero orphanage in the town of Orth.

The distinguishing feature of this place is the presence of a giant chasm, called the Abyss, containing mysterious artifacts and objects of special interest to the outside world.

But the Abyss is known for one thing in particular: the further down you venture, the harder it will be to come back up…

Made in Abyss is one of those anime that might seem light and cute, but it’s actually quite mature and can get pretty intense.

So, don’t be fooled by the atmosphere and character design, because there are some pretty graphic scenes in store that awaits you.

7. Attack on Titan

Attack on Titan

Attack on Titan is one of the biggest media phenomena in recent years, and it’s clear why.

In Attack on Titan, humanity is relentlessly pursued by heartless giant humanoid creatures known as Titans, forcing them to seek refuge within massive walls, cut off from the rest of the world.

Eren Yeager, a young boy driven by a deep desire to eliminate all Titans, discovers that he possesses the power to transform into one, offering a chance to level the playing field.

Attack on Titan is a mix of fantastic characters, a story full of surprises, a fair amount of contextualized gore, and great animation from both studios that worked on it, MAPPA and Wit.

Even people who aren’t into anime and manga know about it by now. So, if you haven’t watched or read it yet, we don’t know what you’re waiting for.

6. Kite

Kite

Kite is an anime with a high rate of violence where the main character is a very young assassin for hire, Sawa.

She was subjected to all kinds of violence by her guardian, who took her in when she became an orphan. This had a great influence on her psyche and amplifies the significance of gore in this anime.

But violence isn’t really psychological here as it’s mostly visual and in big quantities.

Sawa kills with bullets that explode inside her victims’ bodies, creating incredibly crude scenes. The most charming element of anime such as Kite is the lovely vintage style.

Modern anime may even be more violent but have a “cleaner” style compared to the ’80s/’90s vibes.

And if you are a fan of rivers of blood and explosions, Kite offers one of the best mixes of violent anime.

5. Vampire Hunter D

Vampire Hunter D: Bloodlust

Yoshitaka Amano was responsible for the character design of this OAV consisting of only 1 intense episode, released in 1985 and adapted from the light novel of the same name.

A rescue story that nevertheless presents a fantasy horror opera, rich in action and romance consisting in D, the vampire hunter, in his mission to save the girl Doris and to defeat Count Magnus Lee.

The fights are beautifully animated carnage for the time, a bloodbath that will captivate horror lovers.

This gem was one of the first horror movies to come out in the West and is a must-have for vintage lovers.

Nowadays, Vampire Hunter isn’t really as violent as it was before but it’s still a great way to study the history of violent anime.

Try to avoid the English dubbing if possible, as it is one of the worst-performing in history.

P.S. Bloodlust, the sequel, is quite different and is still a highly recommended choice by Kawajiri.

4. Parasyte

Parasyte

Parasyte is a 2014 anime adaptation of a vintage manga from the 1990s, presented in a modern style with excellent results.

In this thrilling anime, Shinichi Izumi, a high school student, becomes a host to a parasitic alien called Migi, who fails to take over Shinichi’s brain, ending up in his right hand.

Now, they are forced to rely on each other and defend themselves against other hostile parasites seeking to eliminate their species.

Parasyte is an incredibly well-rounded anime, blending lots of action and gore with a plot full of psychological twists and turns, even making room for romance subplots.

If you haven’t had a chance to watch this great series yet, make sure to do it whenever you can.

3. Chainsaw Man

Chainsaw Man is one of the biggest hits of recent times, thanks to MAPPA’s simply perfect work.

Denji is a boy who because of his father, after his death, is in debt up to his neck. Because of this, he is forced to be a Devil Hunter, or demon hunter, to scrape together some money.

In all this he is joined by his companion and weapon Pochita, a chainsaw dog who one day, in a dangerous situation, will change his master’s life, making him the dreaded Chainsaw Man.

There are many reasons behind the incredible success of this work. Chainsaw Man is a dynamic and fast-paced story that takes the theme of demons and makes it interesting again.

The story is full of surprises and dark moments, accompanied by the best cast you could ever ask for.

The execution is also basically flawless and this adaptation is poignant of cult movie references and crazy action.

2. Devilman Crybaby

Devilman Crybaby

Devilman Crybaby is an animated adaptation that came out in 2018, based on Go Nagai’s famous Devilman manga. Compared to the previous adaptations, the style of Crybaby is avant-garde and the story features some changes.

The protagonist, Akira, is too good of a boy, always reasoning things out, which leads to him receiving the nickname Crybaby.

Not so with Ryo, his best friend who is more fearless and arrogant, and by whom he gets carried away. One day, Akira is persuaded to go on a Sabbath, which turns out to be a full-blown satanic ritual to attract demons.

Everyone is possessed, including Akira, who nevertheless manages to control the beast through his gentle spirit. The result is Devilman, a man-devil with supernatural powers dedicated to the protection of humanity.

Devilman Crybaby is truly outstanding, with a lot of plot twists, intense action/gore scenes, and stunning animation, which is no surprise with Yuuasa leading the project.

1. Hellsing Ultimate

Hellsing Ultimate

Hellsing: Ultimate was released in 2006 and was made as an adaptation that was more faithful to the original manga written by Kota Hirano compared to the 2001 version.

The name of the series comes from the homonym secret organization Hellsing, whose duty is to hide the existence of Vampires and to keep the population safe.

The main character Alucard works for Hellsing as a vampire exterminator, being himself a member of the vampire race. He is supported by his new assistant Seras Victoria, a former policewoman who he saved in the past.

But a deep web of mysteries will soon arise.

If you want a series with action, gore, and lots of monsters and vampires, then Hellsing Ultimate is hard to beat. We also featured it as one of the best gory anime on Hulu and for valid reasons, as you have just read.

And this applies to all of Kota Hirano’s work, which you should check out if you like intense visual scenes.

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Yorozuya

Passionate about Japanese culture for years, serial devourer of manga, anime, and videogames that have now become part of my routine. My favorite series? Goodnight Punpun and One Piece.

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