31 Scariest Horror Anime of All Time
Horror anime can evoke a wide range of emotions, from creeping unease to sheer terror. Here’s a comprehensive list of some of the scariest horror anime that have left a lasting impact on viewers over the years.
1. Another (2012)
This series revolves around a cursed class and a series of gruesome deaths. The atmosphere and tension are relentless, making it a must-watch for horror fans.
2. Elfen Lied (2004)
Known for its graphic violence and psychological horror, Elfen Lied explores the dark side of human nature and the tragic life of the protagonist, Lucy.
3. Higurashi When They Cry (2006)
Set in a small village with a dark secret, this series combines mystery, horror, and supernatural elements to create a chilling narrative.
4. Tokyo Ghoul (2014)
Following the story of Kaneki, who becomes half-ghoul, this series delves into the gruesome and terrifying world of ghouls that live among humans.
5. Paranoia Agent (2004)
This psychological thriller by Satoshi Kon explores the effects of paranoia and fear on individuals, blending reality with the supernatural.
6. Shiki (2010)
In a rural village, residents start dying mysteriously. The series explores themes of isolation, death, and the supernatural, building an eerie atmosphere.
7. Ghost Hunt (2006)
This series follows a team of paranormal investigators who tackle various haunting cases, each more terrifying than the last.
8. Yami Shibai (2013)
This anthology series presents short, traditional Japanese ghost stories, each episode bringing a unique and unsettling tale to life.
9. The Promised Neverland (2019)
Set in an orphanage with a dark secret, this series combines psychological horror with a gripping plot, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats.
10. Corpse Party: Tortured Souls (2013)
Based on the video game, this OVA series is known for its intense gore and supernatural horror, as students find themselves trapped in a haunted school.
11. Hell Girl (2005)
In this series, people can summon the Hell Girl to take revenge on their behalf, but at a great cost. The stories are dark and often morally ambiguous.
12. Hellsing (2001)
This series features vampires, ghouls, and intense action, creating a dark and bloody narrative centered around the Hellsing Organization.
13. Mononoke (2007)
Following a mysterious medicine seller who exorcises spirits, this series combines unique art style with eerie storytelling.
14. Parasyte -the maxim- (2014)
When parasitic aliens invade Earth, a high school student must coexist with one of them in his body. The series is known for its body horror and existential themes.
15. Attack on Titan (2013)
While primarily an action series, the horror elements of humanity’s fight against terrifying giants create a sense of dread and desperation.
16. Boogiepop Phantom (2000)
This psychological horror series weaves together multiple storylines, creating a complex and unsettling narrative about urban legends and supernatural events.
17. Petshop of Horrors (1999)
This series revolves around a mysterious pet shop that sells rare animals with dark secrets. Each episode presents a new horror story.
18. Blood-C (2011)
This series features intense violence and a dark storyline, following Saya as she battles horrific creatures.
19. Mirai Nikki (Future Diary) (2011)
A survival game involving future diaries turns deadly, with the protagonist facing increasingly dangerous and unstable opponents.
20. Devilman Crybaby (2018)
A modern retelling of the classic Devilman series, this anime is known for its brutal violence, psychological horror, and existential themes.
21. Perfect Blue (1998)
Directed by Satoshi Kon, this psychological thriller explores the dark side of fame and identity, blurring the lines between reality and hallucination.
22. School-Live! (2015)
What starts as a cute slice-of-life series quickly reveals its dark side, as the characters try to survive in a post-apocalyptic world.
23. Junji Ito Collection (2018)
This anthology series brings the works of renowned horror manga artist Junji Ito to life, featuring his unique brand of unsettling and grotesque horror.
24. Gantz (2004)
After dying, a group of people are forced to participate in a deadly game against aliens. The series is known for its graphic violence and psychological tension.
25. Highschool of the Dead (2010)
A group of high school students must survive a zombie apocalypse, facing both the undead and human threats.
26. Ayakashi: Samurai Horror Tales (2006)
This anthology series features classic Japanese horror stories, each one unique and chilling in its own right.
27. Kiseijuu: Sei no Kakuritsu (Parasyte) (2014)
Shinichi Izumi must deal with a parasite that takes over his hand, leading to a series of gruesome battles and existential crises.
28. Deadman Wonderland (2011)
Wrongfully imprisoned, Ganta must survive in a twisted amusement park where inmates fight for survival. The series is known for its brutal violence and psychological horror.
29. Casshern Sins (2008)
In a post-apocalyptic world, Casshern must uncover the truth about his past while facing a variety of terrifying enemies.
30. The Devil is a Part-Timer! (2013)
Though more of a comedy, the dark undertones and supernatural elements provide moments of horror, especially in the demon world.
31. Terra Formars (2014)
As humanity battles mutant cockroaches on Mars, the series delivers intense action and body horror.