Anime contains a rich tapestry of supernatural and occult narratives, often drawing on diverse mythologies to bring angels and demons to life. These ethereal beings feature prominently in many series, each grounded in unique cultural lore, allowing for a broad spectrum of storytelling possibilities. Writers frequently invoke the archetypes of angels and demons to create relatable, iconic characters that resonate with audiences.
Updated January 24, 2025, by C.M. Edwards: Within the anime landscape, angels and demons frequently appear across various genres, often rooted in fantasy settings. Whether it’s an angel descending in a dramatic thunderstorm during a classroom scene or protagonists navigating the celestial realms to avert apocalyptic disasters, these characters enhance the narratives through compelling conflicts. Notable beings such as Deon Kings and gracious winged angels serve as both heroes and villains, enriching the storytelling landscape. Here’s a look at some of the finest anime that feature these celestial and demonic entities.
17 The Seven Deadly Sins
The Knights Of Old Try To Protect The New
Once celebrated as the mightiest knights, Meliodas and his comrades faced a catastrophic betrayal that tarnished their reputations. Labeled as the kingdom’s greatest enemies, they find themselves at the brink of destruction against a newly emerging demon threat. Meliodas must rally his eccentric yet formidable allies—Escanor, Bam, Diane, King, Gowther, and Merlin—to confront this looming evil under the watchful eye of the Demon King.
16 Chainsaw Man
One Lone Devil Seeks To Exterminate The Rest
In a reality besieged by demonic entities known as devils, humanity grapples with despair. Denji, a young man exploited by a local mafia, experiences betrayal that propels him into a perilous role directly at the heart of this chaos. Gaining new powers through a bond with a peculiar devil, Denji embarks on a harrowing quest to eliminate the widespread demonic threat, all while vying for the affection of a captivating new ally.
15 Supernatural: The Animation
Brothers Take On The Wrath Of Heaven And Hell
- Number Of Episodes: 22
- Studio: Madhouse
- Release Date: 2011
The internationally acclaimed series Supernatural, which ran for fifteen seasons, chronicles the intense journey of brothers Sam and Dean as they hunt creatures from folklore and engage with a host of supernatural threats. Their pursuit becomes dire when legions of demons seek to invoke the Apocalypse, challenging their abilities and resolve. The anime adaptation produced by Madhouse encompasses pivotal arcs, incorporating compelling original stories while remaining true to the beloved source material.
14 High School DxD
A Chaotic Tale Filled With Loss
Set in an academy dedicated to training angels and demons, High School DxD features Issei Hyoudou, a high school student captivated by girls and woefully uninspired in his studies. His life takes a dark turn when he is seduced and killed by Yuma, a fallen angel. However, Rias, a high-ranking devil, resurrects him as her servant, leading to an unpredictable blend of school life and supernatural battles.
13 Ah! My Goddess
Sometimes Angels Actually Fall Out Of The Sky
In a surprising twist of fate, Keiichi Morisato accidentally contacts the Goddess Help Line and is met by Belldandy, a powerful goddess who grants him a wish. Assuming it’s a joke, Keiichi whimsically wishes for her to stay with him forever, only to find his life turned upside down by the whimsy and chaos of living with a deity. The anime spins a narrative filled with humor and heartfelt moments, echoing the journey through its original manga roots and subsequent adaptations.
12 The Devil Is A Part-Timer!
When The Devil Needs A Break
In a humorous take on the reverse isekai genre, The Devil Is A Part-Timer! presents a scenario where the powerful Demon Lord Satan faces an unexpected defeat and finds himself in modern Tokyo, reduced to working at a fast-food restaurant. Joined by the archangel Emi Yusa, who has pursued him from Ente Isla, the two characters navigate their new lives, blending comedy and supernatural elements in their ongoing rivalry.
11 Claymore
Deadly Warriors Face Packs Of Evil And Try Not To Become Them
Claymore revolves around fierce female warriors augmented by a mysterious organization to combat demons. This intrigue lies in their partial demonic nature, presenting a moral battle as they confront the monsters they are trained to defeat. The portrayal of these warriors evokes a sense of celestial guardianship, drawing a parallel to traditional angelic roles, yet they tread the line between light and darkness.
10 Neon Genesis Evangelion
A World Where Reality Is On The Brink Of Extinction
Neon Genesis Evangelion intricately weaves occult themes into its narrative, creating a layered, philosophical exploration of human existence. The titular beings, known as “angels,”are presented initially as formidable threats rather than traditional heavenly beings. As the series progresses, these aliens embody metaphysical concerns, grappling with humanity’s struggle for survival. Though they deviate from angelic forms, their role within the narrative distorts the classification of good versus evil, making it a thought-provoking watch.
9 Rage Of Bahamut: Genesis
The Fate Of The World Hangs In The Balance As Heaven And Hell War On Earth
Set in the vibrant world of Mistarcia, Rage of Bahamut: Genesis follows an epic tale of demonic and divine clashes. The key to preventing the ancient monster Bahamut from returning lies within a fragmented artifact, sparking a race against time. Amira, a girl harboring one part of the key, enlists bounty hunters Favaro and Kaisar in a quest steeped in intricate politics and longstanding rivalries among gods, demons, and humans, dramatizing the fundamental struggle between light and darkness.
8 Blue Exorcist
The Son Of The Devil Fights For Good
Blue Exorcist intricately builds a saga of dualities, following brothers Rin and Yukio Okumura, the offspring of Satan who are determined to become exorcists. The narrative delves into their struggle against their father’s dark legacy, set against a backdrop reminiscent of classical religious themes. As they encounter demons and learn to harness their powers, the series merges thrilling combat scenes with poignant emotional conflict, positioning itself among the most notable entries in the demon anime genre.
7 Panty & Stocking with Garterbelt
Fallen Angels Fight Against The Forces Of Evil
In a wildly unconventional interpretation, Panty & Stocking with Garterbelt presents two fallen angels dispatched to Earth with a mission. Instead, they indulge in human vices while battling varying malevolent entities. Embodying outrageous humor and creative visuals, the anime excels in comedy while retaining elements of supernatural action, showcasing the paradox of divine beings engaging in earthly escapades.
6 Black Butler
An Interesting Duo Of A Demon And A Human
Black Butler centers on Ciel Phantomhive, a young lord entangled in a contract with the enigmatic demon butler, Sebastian Michaelis. As Ciel navigates various supernatural threats, Sebastian assists him while waiting for the day he can claim Ciel’s soul. Their dynamic is layered with tension, prompting viewers to ponder the blurred lines between good and evil within the intricate world they inhabit.
5 Gabriel DropOut
Even Angels Have To Go To School
In the comedic universe of Gabriel DropOut, angels undergo schooling before their assignments on Earth. Gabriel, a top-tier angel, becomes addicted to video games upon arrival, showcasing how even celestial beings can succumb to earthly temptations. With a lighthearted narrative and a charming cast, the anime explores relatable themes of distraction and self-discovery in a spiritually nuanced framework.
4 Devilman Crybaby
From High School Nobody To Demonic Savior
Devilman Crybaby reimagines the original manga classic for a contemporary audience, highlighting Akira’s transformation from an ordinary student into a hero battling demonic forces. Straddling the line between horror and supernatural drama, the series builds intensity as Akira confronts the depths of his newfound powers amidst a global threat from both devils and their angelic counterparts. The impact of this narrative culminates in a profound reveal that challenges preconceived notions of morality in the fight against evil.
3 Black Clover
Magical Warriors Must Fend Off The Darkness To Defend The Light
Black Clover presents a vibrant fantasy world where characters classified as mages resemble angelic warriors battling against devils. The story follows Asta and Yuno, who, despite their tumultuous backgrounds, aspire to become the Wizard King. Their journey, rich with magical battles and moral challenges, illustrates the eternal conflict between light and dark, showcasing the precocious growth of their abilities as they fight for the realm’s salvation.
2 Demon Slayer
A Boy Out For Revenge Seeks To Kill The Father Of All Demons
Demon Slayer immerses viewers in the rich mythos of Japanese demons, placing protagonist Tanjiro Kamado on a harrowing quest to exterminate them and save his possessed sister. Renowned for its awe-inspiring animation and emotional depth, this series captures the heart of traditional folklore while delivering breathtaking action and a meaningful exploration of themes like family, revenge, and resilience amid horror.
1 Haibane Renmei
Explores Deep Concepts In The World Of Life After Death
Unlike typical narratives centered on angels or demons, Haibane Renmei dives deep into spiritual themes, presenting a contemplative atmosphere that embodies the concept of life after death. Following a girl who awakens with no memory in a mysterious realm, the series artfully extends philosophical musings about identity, acceptance, and redemption. Albeit slow-paced and subtle, it fosters a rich understanding of the human condition through its striking visuals and profound storytelling.
Leave a Reply