Anime isn’t merely a playground for children’s adventures; it also encompasses a vast realm crafted for adults. While numerous series target younger viewers, the true gems of the medium often emerge from the seinen genre. Unlike the youth-centric shonen, seinen narratives delve into more sophisticated and adult themes, making them appealing to a mature audience.
Though some subject matter in these anime may seem unsuitable for younger fans, adults seeking deeper storytelling can discover that the top seinen anime series offer a welcome alternative. Seinen spans a rich variety of genres, extending far beyond action and thrillers to include romance, slice of life, isekai, and humor, ensuring there is something for everyone.
Updated December 13, 2024 by Mark Sammut: With the Fall 2024 anime season winding down, a new addition to the seinen rankings has been introduced. Explore the list below to find the recently added titles!
26 The 100 Girlfriends Who Really, Really, Really, Really, Really Love You
MyAnimeList: 7.74
Heralded as a high point in harem anime, this series boldly proposes, “What if every girl can win?”Rentaro, an unlucky youth in matters of the heart, discovers his destiny at a shrine when a god informs him he will meet 100 girls who are his soulmates—and he must keep each of them happy. Despite the initial shock, Rentaro rises to the occasion with charm and enthusiasm.
The 100 Girlfriends serves as both a humorous take on harem tropes and a commendable entry in the genre. Its lead character, Rentaro, is a delightful and innocent figure who enriches the whimsical premise. Early adaptations from the manga promise continuous character introductions that equally challenge and entertain.
25 Orb: On the Movements of the Earth
MyAnimeList: 8.26
Emerging as a standout in the Fall 2024 lineup, Orb: On the Movements of the Earth presents a unique historical narrative set in 1400s Poland. It intricately depicts the struggle against the Church’s doctrine of geocentrism, exploring the lives of several characters who risk everything to promote heliocentrism—a revolutionary concept that places the Sun at the center of the universe.
With its mature and dark storytelling, Orb demonstrates a bold ambition, using a multi-protagonist approach to highlight the collective effort necessary for societal change, rather than relying on singular heroes.
24 The Fable
MyAnimeList: 8.07
The Fable gradually garnered attention for its unique story arc throughout its two-season run. Despite Katsuhisa Minami’s manga not being widely recognized, Tezuka Productions’ adaptation found its footing, bringing a mix of dark humor and heartfelt moments to life.
The plot centers on a notorious hitman, Akira, who must stay undercover for a year while navigating everyday interactions in Osaka. This contrast between his violent past and his awkward attempts at normalcy leads to hilarious and unexpectedly touching moments as he becomes embroiled in Yakuza conflicts.
23 Skip And Loafer
MyAnimeList: 8.12
In Skip and Loafer, the narrative follows a small-town girl, Mitsumi, as she ventures to bustling Tokyo, aspiring to fulfill her dreams. While the premise may seem standard, this series ascends beyond typical slice-of-life stories by accurately portraying the challenges of merging into a new environment.
With a blend of humor and genuine introspection, the anime brilliantly encapsulates the complexities of high school life—an experience that resonates deeply with viewers of all backgrounds.
22 Oshi No Ko
MyAnimeList: 8.60 (Season 1)
Oshi No Ko captivates with its intriguing integration of the entertainment industry, enveloped in murder mystery and themes of revenge. Following Aqua’s relentless quest to uncover the truth behind Ai’s death, the series deeply examines the lives of dedicated artists and the complexities of the industry.
Both seasons are lauded for their engaging narrative and striking visuals, although the pacing may feel scattered to some audience members, especially those primarily drawn to the mystery elements. Fans can look forward to a promising third season on the horizon.
21 Parasyte -The Maxim-
MyAnimeList: 8.33
Considered a cornerstone within the seinen category, Parasyte has gained widespread acclaim for its horrific imagery and engaging storytelling. The plot follows Shinichi Izumi, a teenager whose life is changed when a parasite invades his body, only to be kept contained within his right hand instead of gaining full control.
This twist propels Shinichi into a gripping narrative filled with tension as he and Migi, his embedded parasite, confront the ensuing chaos together, embodying the struggle for survival in a world on the brink of apocalypse.
20 Hellsing Ultimate
MyAnimeList: 8.35
Delving into vampire lore, Hellsing Ultimate stands as a defining work within the fantasy anime genre. Viewers are thrust into the world of Alucard, a fearsome vampire who serves the Hellsing family in their mission to eradicate supernatural threats.
This series is characterized by its intense and brutal storytelling, making it a must-watch for fans of suspense and action. Those disappointed by the lack of gore in other fantasy series like Berserk will find plentiful excitement here.
19 Golden Kamuy
MyAnimeList: 7.88 (Season 1)
Golden Kamuy intertwines its bizarre elements seamlessly, reflecting the post-Russo-Japanese War era where various parties race to unearth hidden Ainu treasure. The series follows Saichi Sugimoto and an Ainu girl named Asirpa as they embark on an adventure to reclaim a fortune while navigating a treacherous landscape.
Brain’s Base adeptly balances moments of intense violence with lighthearted humor, resulting in a narrative that is as engaging as it is unpredictable.
18 Erased
MyAnimeList: 8.30
Erased invites viewers to ponder the ramifications of altering the past as it follows Satoru Fujinuma, a man who has the power to travel back eighteen years to prevent tragedies involving his loved ones.
This thought-provoking mystery offers intense pacing and impressive visuals, making it an engaging choice for seinen enthusiasts who crave intricately woven narratives.
17 Pluto
MyAnimeList: 8.46
Finally adapted into an 8-part OVA in 2023, Pluto captures the essence of Naoki Urasawa’s masterful manga. This captivating tale, branching from the Astro Boy saga, centers around Gesicht, a robot detective investigating a string of murders that have deep implications for both humans and artificial beings.
Its exploration of humanity and ethical dilemmas provides a richer context to the narrative while it cleverly reinterpreting classic sci-fi tropes.
16 Land Of The Lustrous
MyAnimeList: 8.39
Focusing on anthropomorphic gemstones, Land of the Lustrous truly distinguishes itself within the anime landscape. Set in a future Earth that is uninhabitable for humans, the series follows the journey of Phos and others as they combat the Lunarians threatening their existence.
This anime’s striking visual aesthetic combined with the compelling story makes for a one-of-a-kind viewing experience that constantly surprises its audience.
15 Fate/Zero
MyAnimeList: 8.27 (Season 1)
As a crucial installment in the broader Fate franchise, Fate/Zero offers a profound narrative with darker themes and complex characters. Known for its strong world-building and stunning visuals, this anime provides viewers with an immersive experience and high stakes.
Even though it can stand alone, for those considering diving deeper into the Fate universe, it’s recommended to watch Fate/Stay Night afterward, as Fate/Zero serves as its prequel.
14 Made In Abyss
MyAnimeList: 8.64 (Season 1)
Mystery thrives in the realm of seinen, and Made in Abyss masterfully embodies this allure. It narrates the journey of Riko, an orphan determined to uncover the secrets of a vast, mysterious chasm known as the Abyss, forming poignant connections along the way.
This series blends suspense with thoughtful character development, making it a must-watch for viewers interested in a captivating fusion of mystery and emotional storytelling.
13 Space Brothers
MyAnimeList: 8.48
Space Brothers captures the essence of pursuing dreams as it follows brothers Mutta and Hibito, who have long aspired to explore outer space. However, the narrative primarily focuses on Mutta’s personal journey after he decides to chase his dreams following an unexpected setback.
This sci-fi series stands out for its realistic portrayal of aspirations, encapsulating the challenges and triumphs involved in achieving one’s goals.
12 Delicious In Dungeon
MyAnimeList: 8.61
Pushing the boundaries of the gourmet genre, Delicious in Dungeon immerses viewers in a fantasy world inspired by Dungeons & Dragons. This narrative follows a group of adventurers who, pressed for time, decide to cook and consume the monsters they encounter as culinary exploration becomes a vital survival strategy.
With excellent animation and endearing characters, the series intertwines humor with epic storytelling, revealing a landscape rich in imaginative world-building and culinary creativity.
11 Bungo Stray Dogs
MyAnimeList: 7.81 (Season 1)
Bungo Stray Dogs showcases a world where gifted individuals operate within an alternate-reality Yokohama inspired by the 1920s. Striking a balance between supernatural abilities and detective work, the series emphasizes character-driven storytelling, allowing viewers to form deep connections with the ensemble cast.
This unique approach illustrates the complexities of character development, making the anime a compelling watch, especially for those who appreciate rich narratives.
10 Berserk
MyAnimeList: 8.58
As a critically acclaimed series, Berserk exemplifies the darker side of anime. Friends and foes alike encounter brutal battles throughout the story of Guts, a mercenary with immense strength and grit. The narrative’s unforgiving nature reveals a world where peril lurks around every corner, ensuring a thrilling experience for those ready to face its horrors.
This blend of action and emotional depth positions Berserk as a unique experience that resonates deeply with its audience, particularly those who cherish epic confrontations.
9 Mushi-Hi
MyAnimeList: 8.65 (Season 1)
Portraying a blend of slice-of-life, supernatural, and dramatic elements, Mushi-Shi follows Ginko, a Mushishi, as he travels across Japan studying mysterious creatures known as Mushi that co-exist with humans. This immersive series offers a rich experience filled with beauty, melancholy, and philosophical reflections.
While its pacing may be slow, the exquisite storytelling and visual artistry elevate it as a captivating piece that enchants viewers with each episode.
8 Kingdom
MyAnimeList: 7.89 (Season 1)
Adapted from Yasuhisa Hara’s esteemed manga, Kingdom breathes life into a tumultuous era during China’s Warring States Period, chronicling the journey of two orphans, Xin and Piao, as they confidently pursue their dreams of becoming great generals.
Despite the varied animation styles throughout its run, Kingdom captivates its audience with its strong narrative and character development, ultimately evolving into a compelling war epic recognized for its ambitious storytelling.
7 March Comes In Like A Lion
MyAnimeList: 8.37 (Season 1)
Although it may not hold mainstream appeal, March Comes In Like A Lion stands out for its profound exploration of themes such as depression and loneliness. Following protagonist Rei Kiriyama, a reclusive shogi player, the series delves into his interactions with the warmhearted Koda family.
With its sensitive and realistic portrayal of heavy subjects, the series ultimately conveys a message of hope, balancing dramatic elements with heartfelt connections.
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