While anime is known to put boundaries to the test, some shows take it to a whole new level by actually tiptoeing into areas where not too many others have ventured. It might be some graphic violence, sensitive themes, or even characters that go beyond the norms of conventional society.
There are several such anime shows that have been called into question by both fans and critics alike. From questioning morality to perhaps going raw in content, these are really not for the faint of heart. If you’re interested in the wildest, most provocative titles out there, here are the top 10 anime that still continue to stir the pot in the world of animation.
10. Berserk
High in terms of violence, bloodshed, and sexual scenes, ‘Berserk‘ is an anti-hero story based on a lonely swordsman’s grudge, Guts. The anime is filled with violence, torture, and rape scenes which were not accepted well, and critics said that anime glorifies violence and depicts women as sexual objects. Its themes of trauma, loss, and the human condition, however, have also earned it critical acclaim
9. Elfen Lied
‘Elfen Lied‘ is another anime series in the psychological horror genre with references to the problems of social exclusion, discrimination, and usage of force. It is based on a group of characters around Lucy, a mutant with devil-like horns fatal in nature. It is a quite violent and sexual show, and portrays characters with mental health issues, drawing controversies.Â
Many have also complained about how mental illness was depicted in the series or rather, inadequately depicted. Although some people criticize it and consider it as the promotion of mental disorders, others praise it and argue that it is to draw more attention to the problem and the fact that people of any gender, age, or race can suffer from it and break the stereotype.
8. Neon Genesis Evangelion
‘Neon Genesis Evangelion‘ is considered one of the most iconic mecha animes that explores complex psychological elements like depression, existential doubt, and hope. Due to the dark and, at times, gruesome plot of the series it has become an object of critical success.
However, many of its themes, which include isolation, rejection, and the rejection of relationships, have appealed to the audience. Nevertheless, it has come under criticism for being too depressing.
7. Death Note
‘Death Note‘ is one of the popular and critically acclaimed psychological thriller anime series that revolves around Light Yagami, a smart high school student who finds a ‘Death Note‘ — a supernatural notebook that kills any individual once their name is written in it.Â
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The series’ discussion of moral plurality and the issue of justice is a subject of rigorous controversy. More pessimistic reviewers are concerned that ‘Death Note‘ is all about portraying violence and is only a reinforcement of a wrong view of life. However, other people support it due to its great ideas and interesting characters.
6. Attack On Titan
‘Attack on Titan‘ is one of the famous Shonen anime that revolves around Eren Yeager and his friends who are against Titans, the giant humanoid creatures. Many viewers have heavily criticized the series due to its graphic violence, as well as for the themes and political implications present in the show.Â
Certain commentators have claimed that violence in the series is presented in the extremes, possibly due to sensationalism. However, others appreciate it for things like the depiction of warfare, genocide, and other topics that depict life.
5. Tokyo Ghoul
‘Tokyo Ghoul‘ is an anime television show based on the manga of the same name and belongs to the dark fantasy genre dealing with subjects such as humanity, discrimination, and the use of force. It focuses on Ken Kaneki, a college student who turned half-ghoul after a terrible incident.Â
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The anime is well known for its rather violent and gory scenes that make it a kind of object of discussion. Audiences have argued that the handling of violence in the series is too intense and even insulting. However, others justify it to portray social issues like discrimination, prejudice, and the community’s desire for acceptance.
4. Erased
‘Erased‘ is a psychological thriller anime that revolves around Satoru Fujinuma, a young guy who possesses the power of ‘retry,’ that is, he can turn back time to avoid catastrophes. Due to the depiction of child abuse, murder, and retribution for one’s deeds, the series remains rather popular and shocking.Â
Some critics also continue to complain that the depiction of child abuse the series portrays is insensitive and undesirable. However, some support it as it creates awareness of child abuse and that children need to be protected.
3. Mirai Nikki
‘Mirai Nikki‘ is a psychological thriller anime, which was adapted from a manga written by Minagera, about Yukiteru Amano – a very timid high school boy who is drawn into a lethal game of survival.
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Due to its graphic nature, violent content, and sexual themes, it has become a highly debated series. Others argue that the contents of violence, sexual and otherwise obscene are priorities in the series. However, some people justify it for the author attempts to depict issues such as power relations, domination, and the will to live.
2. School Days
‘School Days‘ is a romantic drama anime about Makoto Itou, a high school student, and a love triangle between him and two girls. The show has been criticized because most of its episodes involve violence and the concepts that it develops are gloomy.Â
Critics claim that violence and infidelity depict the series as a model of harmful relations. Yet, others argue that the former portrays the life of a married couple with all its vigor and challenges, and the latter portrays the repercussions of one’s actions.
1. Higurashi
‘Higurashi’ is a horror mystery, with its plot revolving around a group of friends being hunted by a serial killer. The series is still viewed as ambiguous due to graphic violence, psychological horror elements, and focus on subjects that are considered to be dark.Â
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However, there still are some critics who state that violence and psychological horror in the series are too intense and unnecessary. Whereas some others argue in its favor because it exposes themes that are related to aggression, trauma, loss, and the longing for justice.
