Almost every anime viewer out there can appreciate slice-of-life shows that add some color to even the gloomiest of days. But every once in a while, viewers desire shows that are bereft of any feel-good vibes and are a little heavy on the stomach. Fortunately, for days like these, there's a long list of horror anime to choose from.
Since anime is different from other mediums of storytelling, some of its horror-themed shows may not befit the taste of newbie viewers. So, for the ones looking forward to taking a small step into some unique offerings of the genre, the list of gateway horror anime below might come in handy.
Ghost Stories
There are glaring differences between the subbed and dubbed versions of Ghost Stories. So for viewers looking for a blend of horror and humor, the dubbed version is more relevant. On the other hand, the ones expecting a serious-toned horror anime should stick to the original subbed version.
Ghost Stories revolves around two siblings who move to a new town and learn about the ghastly rumors surrounding their school. Although they initially brush them off, they soon learn that the rumors are true and the old school building accommodates ghosts that are after them. The animation style of the series may seem a bit dated, but it still manages to redeem itself with its well-written characters and their developments.
Petshop Of Horrors
According to several reviews, the Petshop of Horrors anime pales out compared to its source. Moreover, even its animation quality hasn't stood the test of time. But despite its shortcomings and limited budget, the four-episode OVA does a reasonably good job at scaring viewers with effective storytelling.
At the center of its premise is a pet shop owner named Count D, who sells rare and mysterious pets to people. Each pet comes with a contract the owners must conform to for if they fail to do so, they must prepare for dire consequences.
High School Of The Dead
For viewers who are easily turned off by fan service, High School of the Dead may not fit the bill. However, for others who are looking for an anime that seamlessly combines the fan service brand of comedy with action and zombie horror, it is among the best out there.
Its plot revolves around a group of high schoolers who narrowly survive a zombie apocalypse. Determined to figure out what caused the pandemic in the first place, they set out on a journey to unravel the secrets around it and find their loved ones.
Ayakashi: Samurai Classic Horror
In its 11-episode runtime, Ayakashi narrates three classic Japanese horror stories. Due to its involvement of many local cultural references, the series may not engage all viewers. However, once a viewer is well-versed with the show's symbolism and imagery, its experimental art style and storytelling pay off well.
Instead of heavily relying on cheap jump scares, Ayakashi builds a grim atmosphere with its music and detailed background imagery. Along with that, it also sheds some light on the common issues that people faced during the Edo period. So if not for its offbeat approach towards horror, many viewers will find it intriguing for its historical and cultural explorations.
Junji Ito Collection
With an Uzumaki adaptation underway, now would be a good time to catch up with Junji Ito's other cosmic horror tales. For those who are too scared to delve into the world of Ito's unparalleled horrors, this anime could serve as a perfect gateway.
Although several reviews suggest that the series tries to cram way too many Junji Ito tales in its 12-episode runtime and its pacing is all over the place, the anime makes up for its flaws by capturing the very essence of Ito's trademarks.
Parasyte: The Maxim
The science fiction genre is replete with stories of body-snatching aliens. So conceptually, Parasyte brings nothing new to the table. It unfolds in a world where alien parasites burrow into human brains and acquire complete control of their bodies. What makes the series stand out though is the psychological explorations and subtle developments of its main character, Shinichi.
Like other humans, Shinichi, too, becomes a victim of a parasite. But instead of hacking into his brain, the alien rests in his right arm and gives him the ability to battle others. From being an ordinary school kid, Shuichi turns into a warrior who is often weighed down by his own expectations.
Dorohedoro
Dorohedoro is one of a kind. With a dark dystopian world in its backdrop, it follows the adventures—and misadventures—of a reptile-headed man who's determined to find the sorcerer who cursed him. His adventures lead him to the ghastly underbelly of his world where sorcerers rule and nothing is as it seems.
Although CGI animation has a bad rep in the anime circle, Dorohedoro breaks the norm by recreating an almost flawless CGI adaptation of its source. Its gothic-cyberpunk aesthetic feels visceral, and its fascinating world-building and characters never leave a dull moment.
Tokyo Ghoul
Since its release, Tokyo Ghoul has divided viewers. While some appreciate it for its gripping plot points and stellar production, others remain dissatisfied by the inconsistencies and underdeveloped storyline elements. Regardless of one's opinion about it, it cannot be denied that the series instills some genuine chills and thrills.
As many reviews suggest, it may be lackluster compared to the psychological depth of its original manga. However, when it comes to its action, the show has enough gore and intensity to keep most horror fans hooked.
The Promised Neverland
The first season of The Promise Neverland took the world of anime by storm. Both shounen and non-shounen fans united to appreciate its hard-hitting opening, impressive graphics, and brilliant storytelling. Although its second season failed to impress most viewers, newbie horror fans can definitely check out its season 1 to get well-versed with the high standards of quality horror anime.
Set in a dream-like orphanage, the show revolves around three orphans who have the time of their lives under the protective eye of their "Mama," Isabella. However, their ideal perception of the orphanage is soon shattered when they learn that there's a lot more to their Mama than meets the eye.
Deadman Wonderland
As the title itself suggests, Deadman Wonderland promises a lot of violence, intriguing characters, and plot developments that rarely require any emotional investment. And for the most part, it does deliver everything it promises but offers nothing more than that.
Its setup is all about the nightmarish adventures of a young boy who gets falsely convicted for mass murder and gets sent to a prison amusement park called Deadman Wonderland. To survive he must find a friend among other sadistic inmates imprisoned there and win deathly games he's forced to play for the entertainment of onlookers.