The 10 Best Supernatural Anime You Need to Watch
Supernatural anime has captivated audiences worldwide with its thrilling blend of the fantastical, the eerie, and the otherworldly. Whether it’s the haunting presence of spirits, the explosive powers of magic, or the battle between good and evil, these anime series offer an unparalleled adventure into realms beyond the ordinary. For those seeking a captivating experience filled with mystery, suspense, and mind-bending plot twists, the supernatural genre is a goldmine.
In this article, we’ll explore the 10 best supernatural anime that you absolutely need to watch, each offering a unique blend of engaging stories, unforgettable characters, and awe-inspiring visuals. Get ready to step into the unknown!
Table of Contents
10. Tokyo Ghoul
| Genres | Action, Fantasy, Horror, Suspense |
| Release Date | 2014 |
Tokyo Ghoul has won over many admirers with its superb blend of intense action sequences, thought-provoking themes, and distinctive characters. In an alternate version of Tokyo, flesh-eating ghouls live among humans, preying on them in the dark. The Commission of Counter Ghoul (CCG) works tirelessly to eradicate these creatures, yet not all ghouls are malicious, and some investigators prove to be as ruthless as the monsters they hunt.
Ken Kaneki, the protagonist, finds himself caught between these two worlds when he is turned into a half-ghoul. Struggling with his identity, he embarks on an idealistic quest to bridge the divide between humans and ghouls, believing that innocent creatures should not be punished for the sins of the wicked. Along the way, Kaneki wrestles with the mystery of his transformation, which stemmed from an organ transplant that forever altered his life. While Tokyo Ghoul is a gripping and emotional journey, its appeal may lean more toward seinen action fans than traditional horror enthusiasts.
9. Dororo
| Genres | Action, Adventure, Fantasy |
| Release Date | 2019 |
A ruthless samurai lord makes a pact with twelve demons to ensure the prosperity of his land, sacrificing his firstborn son in the process. The child, born without eyes, limbs, or even skin, is abandoned and left to die. However, a compassionate doctor rescues him and fits him with prosthetic limbs, allowing him to survive.
As he grows, the boy, Hyakkimaru, embarks on a perilous journey to slay the demons that took his body parts, reclaiming his lost humanity piece by piece. Along the way, he meets Dororo, a young thief, and the two form a strong bond as they navigate a world filled with supernatural dangers and human cruelty. Dororo masterfully weaves supernatural elements into a rich historical setting, delivering profound character development and emotional depth throughout its gripping narrative.
Related:
10 Best Historical Anime That Bring the Past to Life
8. Rascal Does Not Dream of Bunny Girl Senpai
| Japanese Title | Seishun Buta Yarou wa Bunny Girl Senpai no Yume wo Minai |
| Genres | Drama, Romance, Supernatural |
| Release Date | 2018 |
For fans of supernatural anime with a grounded, realistic approach, Rascal Does Not Dream of Bunny Girl Senpai is a must-watch. Unlike traditional supernatural series with grand battles or mythical beings, this anime explores an unusual phenomenon known as Adolescence Syndrome, which causes mysterious, reality-defying events tied to emotional struggles.
The protagonist, Sakuta Azusagawa, encounters various individuals affected by this syndrome, most notably Mai Sakurajima, a former child actress who has seemingly become invisible to the world. As Sakuta helps Mai and others confront their fears and insecurities, the series delves into themes of identity, isolation, and self-acceptance. With its sharp writing and heartfelt storytelling, Rascal Does Not Dream of Bunny Girl Senpai offers a refreshing take on the supernatural genre.
7. Oshi No Ko
| Genres | Drama |
| Release Date | 2023 |
Oshi no Ko employs supernatural elements as a catalyst for its emotionally charged narrative. The story begins when a doctor and his terminally ill patient are mysteriously reincarnated as the twin children of Ai Hoshino, a beloved pop idol. Initially played for humor, the reincarnation premise soon takes a darker turn as the twins, Aquamarine and Ruby, uncover the harsh realities of the entertainment industry.
Following a tragic event, the siblings take drastically different paths: Ruby dreams of following in her mother’s footsteps, while Aqua is consumed by a relentless quest for revenge. With its intriguing premise, deep character exploration, and sharp critique of the idol industry, Oshi no Ko delivers an emotionally compelling supernatural drama.
6. Fruits Basket
| Genres | Drama, Romance, Supernatural |
| Release Date | 2019 |
Natsuki Takaya’s Fruits Basket remains a beloved classic in the world of shoujo anime, especially after its stunning 2019 reboot. Blending supernatural fantasy with romance and deep emotional storytelling, Fruits Basket follows the journey of Tohru Honda, a kind-hearted high school girl who becomes entangled with the mysterious Sohma family.
The Sohmas suffer from a peculiar curse: certain family members transform into animals of the Chinese zodiac when embraced by someone of the opposite sex. However, beneath this seemingly lighthearted premise lies a tale of emotional trauma, familial abuse, and the quest for true belonging. Through her unwavering kindness and determination, Tohru helps break the Sohmas’ curse, offering them hope for a brighter future.
5. To Your Eternity
| Japanese Title | Fumetsu no Anata e |
| Genres | Adventure, Drama, Supernatural |
| Release Date | 2021 |
One of the standout anime of Spring 2021, To Your Eternity is a deeply emotional supernatural drama penned by A Silent Voice creator Yoshitoki Ooima. The story follows an immortal being who takes on different forms as it experiences life, death, and human emotions for the first time.
The anime delivers profound themes of mortality, personal growth, and the bonds that connect us. With its stunning animation, complex storytelling, and heartbreaking character arcs, To Your Eternity offers an unforgettable exploration of the human experience.
4. Dandadan
| Genres | Action, Comedy, Supernatural |
| Release Date | 2024 |
Dandadan is a supernatural spectacle that seamlessly blends multiple genres, including fantasy, sci-fi, and horror. The story follows two teenagers drawn into a world of ghosts and aliens, encountering bizarre and often terrifying supernatural entities.
What sets Dandadan apart is its creative spirit designs, thrilling action sequences, and heartfelt emotional beats. Whether you’re a fan of comedy, romance, adventure, or horror, Dandadan offers a well-rounded and exhilarating experience.
3. Monogatari Series
| Genres | Comedy, Mystery, Romance, Supernatural |
| Release Date | 2013 |
The Monogatari series is one of the most iconic supernatural anime ever created. The story revolves around Koyomi Araragi, a high school student who encounters various supernatural beings, many of whom are afflicted by strange maladies.
Unlike typical supernatural action series, Monogatari is known for its unconventional storytelling, rapid-fire dialogue, and unique visual style. It offers a surreal, intellectually stimulating experience that resonates deeply with viewers who appreciate narrative complexity and character-driven storytelling.
2. Jujutsu Kaisen
| Genres | Action, Award Winning, Supernatural |
| Release Date | 2020 |
Jujutsu Kaisen took the anime world by storm in 2020, delivering high-octane battles, an engaging power system, and a well-developed cast of characters. The story follows Yuji Itadori, an ordinary student who inadvertently becomes the host of a powerful curse, Sukuna.
As he joins the world of jujutsu sorcerers, Yuji learns to harness his newfound abilities while facing off against terrifying curses. With its top-tier animation, intense fight choreography, and gripping plot, Jujutsu Kaisen is a modern masterpiece in the supernatural genre.
1. Death Note
| Genres | Supernatural, Suspense |
| Release Date | 2006 |
At the top of the list stands Death Note, a psychological thriller that redefined supernatural anime. When high school student Light Yagami discovers a mysterious notebook that allows him to kill anyone whose name he writes in it, he embarks on a quest to reshape the world according to his own sense of justice.
As the enigmatic detective L races to uncover his identity, Death Note delivers a tense battle of wits, moral dilemmas, and supernatural intrigue. With its gripping narrative and iconic characters, Death Note remains a must-watch for any anime fan.
These supernatural anime each offer a unique and unforgettable experience. Whether you prefer action, horror, drama, or psychological thrillers, there’s something on this list for everyone. Which of these have you watched, and which are you adding to your watchlist?
