Boogiepop Phantom is a psychological horror anime that delves into urban legends and the collective unconscious. Set in a city where strange events are occurring after a mysterious light appeared, the series follows various characters whose lives are intertwined with the enigmatic figure known as Boogiepop. The narrative is non-linear and often abstract, requiring viewers to piece together the mystery. It's a thought-provoking and atmospheric series that explores themes of fear, memory, and identity. If you enjoy more cerebral and unconventional horror, Boogiepop Phantom offers a unique experience.

Ghost Hunt offers a more traditional take on supernatural horror, following a group of paranormal investigators who tackle various ghostly phenomena. The protagonist, Mai Taniyama, is a high school student who joins the Shibuya Psychic Research team. The series is episodic, with each arc focusing on a different haunting or mystery. It blends elements of horror with detective work, offering explanations for the supernatural events. While not as graphically violent as some other entries on this list, it excels at building atmosphere and delivering genuinely spooky moments. It's a solid choice for fans of classic ghost stories.

BLOOD-C is a dark fantasy horror anime that follows Saya Kisaragi, a seemingly ordinary high school student who, at night, battles monstrous creatures known as Elder Bairns. The series is known for its stylized violence and its gradual reveal of a darker conspiracy. It was co-created by the renowned manga group Clamp, known for their distinctive art style. While it has its critics, BLOOD-C offers a unique blend of action, horror, and mystery. Be prepared for some intense and bloody sequences as Saya fights to protect her village.

Deadman Wonderland throws viewers into a twisted prison where inmates are forced to fight in gladiatorial-style games for the entertainment of the masses. Ganta Igarashi is falsely accused of a crime and sent to this nightmarish facility, where he discovers he has a unique and dangerous ability. The anime is known for its dark setting, over-the-top violence, and its exploration of corruption and survival. While the anime adaptation is shorter than the manga and has a somewhat abrupt ending, it still offers a compelling and brutal look at a dystopian world.

The Future Diary is a thrilling and often brutal survival game anime where participants are given diaries that can predict the future. The protagonist, Yukiteru Amano, is a reclusive boy who is drawn into this deadly game by a god-like entity. The series is known for its high stakes, unpredictable plot twists, and the unsettling behavior of its characters, particularly the obsessive Yuno Gasai. It's a fast-paced and action-packed series that keeps you guessing who will survive. If you enjoy psychological thrillers with a touch of horror, this is worth checking out.

A return to the unsettling world of Hinamizawa, Higurashi: When They Cry - NEW offers a fresh perspective on the familiar horrors. While initially presented as a potential remake, this series takes a surprising turn, adding new layers to the existing mythology. Fans of the original will find familiar faces and settings, but also new mysteries and a different timeline to unravel. It maintains the psychological tension and brutal violence that made the original so compelling. This is a great entry point for newcomers and offers intriguing developments for long-time fans.

Corpse Party: Tortured Souls is a gruesome and intense horror anime based on a popular video game series. After performing a seemingly innocent ritual, a group of students are transported to a cursed elementary school filled with vengeful spirits. This series pulls no punches when it comes to gore and terrifying imagery. It's a survival horror story that puts its characters through unimaginable torment. While short, it delivers a concentrated dose of terror. If you're looking for something purely focused on shocking horror and disturbing visuals, this might be for you.

Parasyte -the maxim- delivers thrilling body horror and action as it follows Shinichi Izumi, a high school student whose hand is infected by a parasitic alien. Instead of taking over his brain, the parasite, Migi, coexists with Shinichi, and they must work together to fight off other hostile parasites. The anime is praised for its well-developed characters, dynamic action, and philosophical undertones. It explores themes of humanity, survival, and the nature of life. The animation is fluid and the fight scenes are particularly engaging. It's a smart and exciting sci-fi horror series.

Elfen Lied is a controversial yet impactful anime that blends science fiction, horror, and tragedy. It centers on Lucy, a powerful and dangerous mutant known as a Diclonius, who escapes from a research facility. The series is known for its graphic violence and its exploration of themes like dehumanization and prejudice. Despite its brutality, it also has moments of surprising tenderness and focuses on the emotional journey of its characters. The opening sequence, with its beautiful and haunting imagery, is particularly well-regarded. This is not for the faint of heart, but it offers a complex and emotionally resonant story.

Tokyo Ghoul plunges viewers into a world where flesh-eating creatures known as ghouls live among humans, often undetected. The story follows Ken Kaneki, a young man who is transformed into a half-ghoul and must navigate this dangerous new reality. The anime is known for its intense action sequences and its exploration of identity and morality. It raises questions about prejudice and what it means to be an outsider. The soundtrack is a standout, with a powerful opening theme that perfectly captures the show's tone. Be prepared for some graphic scenes and a dark, compelling narrative.

Shiki offers a unique take on the vampire genre, exploring themes of life, death, and what it truly means to be human. When strange deaths begin to plague a secluded village, the residents are faced with a terrifying reality. The anime is notable for its complex characters and its willingness to blur the lines between good and evil. It doesn't just present monsters; it delves into their motivations and the difficult choices they face. The art style is distinct and adds to the eerie atmosphere. If you're looking for a horror series with depth and a thought-provoking narrative, Shiki is a must-watch.

Another is a slow-burn horror that relies heavily on atmosphere and a pervasive sense of dread. Set in a middle school plagued by a mysterious curse, the anime follows transfer student Koichi as he tries to unravel the dark secrets of his class. The series excels at building suspense, using subtle cues and unsettling imagery to keep you on edge. The animation style is stark and beautiful, which contrasts effectively with the gruesome events that unfold. Keep an eye out for the unsettling doll imagery – it's a recurring motif that adds to the overall creepiness. This is a great pick for fans of classic horror tropes and mysteries.

Prepare for a descent into madness with Higurashi: When They Cry. This anime starts innocently enough, painting a picture of idyllic village life, but quickly twists into a psychological horror where paranoia and violence reign. The show masterfully uses its episodic structure to reveal different perspectives on a series of gruesome events, leaving you constantly questioning what is real and who to trust. It's a chilling exploration of human nature and the darkness that can lurk beneath a peaceful surface. The sound design is particularly effective at building tension and making your skin crawl. If you're looking for something that will truly unsettle you and leave you thinking long after the credits roll, this is it.