Whether you’re interested in body horror or romance, seinen anime has a lot to offer you.Here are some of the best seinen anime seriesFrom popular titles to hidden gems for your next binge-watch.
1. Hellsing Ultimate
Image Courtesy: IMDb
Topping the list is Hellsing Ultimate, a dark fantasy vampire story unlike any other. Initially a manga series by Kota Hirano in 1997, it has seen multiple anime adaptations, with the 2006-2012 version being the best. The story follows Alucard, a powerful vampire, his mentor Sir Integra Hellsing, and the newly born Seras Victoria. Set in present-day England, the Hellsing organization fights vampires, ghosts, and other supernatural threats to keep the peace.
2. One Punch Man
Image Courtesy: One Punch Man Official X (Formerly Twitter) Account
One Punch Man is one of the most popular anime series of this generation, offering a fun parody of the superhero genre. Set in a Tokyo filled with superheroes and demonic villains, it tells the story of Saitama, a man who can defeat any opponent with a single punch. Despite his tremendous strength, Saitama struggles to find a worthy challenger. The series humorously explores his life as he navigates a world of heroes and villains.
3. Code Geass
Image Courtesy: Code Geass Official Website
Code Geass, an alternate history series, offers something for every anime fan with a mix of supernatural elements and mecha battles. Set in a world divided into three superpowers, the story follows former Prince Lelouch Lamperouge’s quest for revenge against the Holy Britannian Empire. Equipped with a new power and sharp tactical skills, Lelouch aims to destroy Britannia and restore justice to his family.
4. Tokyo Ghoul
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Tokyo Ghoul is a fan favorite that blends horror and an emotional story. The series follows a university student named Ken Kaneki who becomes half-ghost after an unfortunate encounter. As Kaneki delves into the dangerous world of ghouls, the anime features intense battles, terrifying scenes, and touching moments, making it a classic introduction to the seinen genre.
5. Kaguya-sama: Love Is War
Image courtesy: Kaguya-sama: Love Is War official X (formerly Twitter) account
Breaking away from the typical seinen framework, Kaguya-sama: Love Is War is a romantic comedy that combines elements of seinen and shojo. Set at Shuchiin Academy, it follows student council members Miyuki Shirogane and Kaguya Shinomiya as they make elaborate plans to confess their love to each other. The series offers an enjoyable mix of humor and heartwarming moments.
6. Made in Abyss
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Based on the manga by Akihito Tsukushi, Made in Abyss premiered in 2017 and received critical acclaim. The story is set in a city surrounded by a giant pit called the Abyss, which is filled with ancient relics. Young orphan Reiko and her partially robotic friend Reg travel into the Abyss to find their lost mother. Their journey is filled with surprises and danger, making for a gripping adventure.
7. Vinland Saga
Image Courtesy: Vinland Saga Official Website
Vinland Saga is an award-winning historical drama known for its spectacular action and deep character development. The story follows a young Icelander named Thorfinn who seeks revenge on the Viking who killed his father. Based on real historical events, the series offers a compelling mix of action and drama.
8. Pluto
Image Courtesy: Pluto Official Website
Pluto, a murder-mystery thriller on Netflix, is based on Naoki Urasawa’s manga, which is a tribute to Osamu Tezuka’s Astro Boy. Set in a world where humans and robots live together, the story follows robot detective Gesicht as he investigates a series of deaths of robots and humans. His search uncovers dark secrets that some would prefer to keep hidden.
9. The Demon
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Monster, adapted from Naoki Urasawa’s manga, is a critically acclaimed series that has been recognized as one of the best of its decade. It follows Dr. Kenzo Tenma, a brain surgeon who saves a young boy from a standoff against a town’s mayor, only to discover years later that the boy has become a serial killer. Troubled by his decision, Tenma must stop the “monster” he saved.
10. Psycho-Pass
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Psycho-Pass is a cyberpunk thriller set in a terrifying Japan where citizens are evaluated by a Psycho-Pass, which determines their social worth and freedom. The story follows Inspector Akane Tsunemori and former Inspector Shinya Kogami as they hunt down criminal mastermind Shogo Makishima. The series has spawned several films and manga, becoming a classic in the genre.
These ten seinen anime series present a range of stories and genres, each with unique qualities that make them must-watches for any anime fan looking for more mature content.
