The 10 Best Vampire Anime You Need to See
Vampires have long been a captivating presence in anime, blending horror, action, romance, and supernatural intrigue into unforgettable stories. Whether they are bloodthirsty monsters, tragic anti-heroes, or charismatic immortals, these creatures of the night continue to mesmerize audiences with their dark allure. From gothic thrillers to action-packed sagas, vampire anime offers a diverse range of narratives that cater to every kind of viewer.
In this article, we’ve curated a list of the 10 best vampire anime that you absolutely need to see. Whether you’re a longtime fan of the genre or just beginning to explore it, these series and films offer compelling characters, gripping plots, and stunning animation. Get ready to sink your teeth into some of the finest vampire-themed anime ever created!
Table of Contents
10. The Case Study of Vanitas
| Japanese Title | Vanitas no Karte |
| Genres | Action, Fantasy, Mystery |
| Release Date | 2021 |
The supernatural anime The Case Study of Vanitas begins with an age-old legend: a vampire born under a blue moon wields the Book of Vanitas, a powerful grimoire, to curse and eradicate vampirekind. However, contrary to the myth, the book is now in the hands of a human who, along with a vampire named Noé Archiviste, uses it to heal afflicted vampires instead.
Despite its lighthearted moments, The Case Study of Vanitas employs misunderstandings to propel its narrative forward, fostering significant character development. The plot starts at a measured pace but picks up momentum, leading to an especially gripping second season.
9. Noblesse
| Genres | Action, Supernatural |
| Release Date | 2020 |
Noblesse is a well-regarded manhwa, but its anime adaptation falls short of expectations. While it has some entertaining moments, it lacks the depth and polish of its source material.
The story follows Raizel, a powerful vampire striving to maintain a low profile. Instead of embracing his supernatural dominance, he enrolls in high school and attempts to live as a regular student. However, Raizel’s lack of effort in blending in often results in unintentionally hilarious moments.
The anime shines when it focuses on Raizel’s deadpan interactions with his classmates, providing some amusing scenes. However, its rushed pacing and lackluster execution make it a mixed bag compared to the original manhwa.
8. Shiki
| Genres | Horror, Mystery, Supernatural, Suspense |
| Release Date | 2010 |
Shiki is not a cheerful anime about vampires seeking to coexist with humans. Instead, it transcends the typical vampire narrative, offering a deep psychological and moral exploration of survival. Adapted from a horror novel by Fuyumi Ono, Shiki challenges viewers with its morally ambiguous themes.
Set in a small Japanese village, the story begins with the mysterious death of Megumi Shimizu. Soon, an epidemic spreads, turning ordinary people into vampires, or “Shiki.” As chaos ensues, a determined doctor is willing to sacrifice his humanity to put an end to the terror, joining forces with an antisocial youth to prevent the village’s downfall.
7. Rosario + Vampire
| Japanese Title | Rosario to Vampire |
| Genres | Comedy, Romance, Supernatural, Ecchi |
| Release Date | 2008 |
Tsukune Aono, a struggling student with poor grades, finds himself admitted to Youkai Academy—an institution that appears normal but is actually home to supernatural creatures. Among them is Moka Akashiya, a seemingly sweet girl who harbors a powerful vampire alter ego.
Tsukune must navigate life at this bizarre school while concealing his human identity. If discovered, he faces execution per school regulations. Rosario + Vampire blends action, comedy, and romance, making it an enjoyable watch for fans of lighthearted supernatural anime.
6. Servamp
| Genres | Action, Supernatural |
| Release Date | 2016 |
Vampires in anime come in all forms—some seek power, while others prefer a life of laziness. Servamp follows the latter category.
High school student Mahiru Shirota rescues a stray cat and names it Kuro, only to later discover that Kuro is actually a vampire. After an accidental exposure to sunlight, Kuro transforms back into his true form, setting the stage for an unexpected partnership between the carefree vampire and his bewildered new master.
With its unique premise and humor, Servamp offers an entertaining spin on vampire lore.
5. Blood Lad
| Genres | Action, Comedy, Fantasy |
| Release Date | 2013 |
You never knew you needed a slice-of-life vampire story until Blood Lad. Unlike traditional depictions of cunning and bloodthirsty vampires, Staz—the protagonist—is more interested in video games, manga, and human pop culture than in drinking blood.
His mundane existence is disrupted when a human girl enters his demon world. Her arrival sets off a chain of events that forces Staz to embark on an adventure akin to those in his beloved video games. Based on Yuuki Kodama’s manga, Blood Lad delivers a fresh, comedic take on vampire tropes.
4. Call of the Night
| Japanese Title | Yofukashi no Uta |
| Genres | Romance, Supernatural |
| Release Date | 2022 |
Call of the Night evolves in stages, each more captivating than the last. Kou, a restless insomniac, wanders through the night in search of meaning. One evening, he encounters Nazuna, an enigmatic woman who happens to be a vampire. Rather than fearing her, Kou embraces her world and longs to become a vampire himself.
Nazuna, however, informs him that transformation is only possible if he falls in love with her. Thus, their strange yet compelling friendship begins. Initially appearing as a slow-paced slice-of-life, Call of the Night gradually expands into a broader vampire narrative, introducing thrilling new characters and conflicts.
With a second season in development, Call of the Night continues to cement itself as one of the best vampire anime to date.
3. Hellsing Ultimate
| Genres | Action, Horror, Supernatural |
| Release Date | 2006 |
This 10-episode OVA is the definitive adaptation of Kouta Hirano’s Hellsing manga, surpassing the 2001 anime in both accuracy and execution.
The story follows Sir Integra Hellsing, a formidable vampire hunter and descendant of Abraham Van Hellsing. She leads the Royal Order of Protestant Knights in a battle against supernatural threats seeking to overtake England. Accompanying her are Alucard, a powerful ancient vampire, and Seras Victoria, a newly turned vampire.
With its intense action, gothic atmosphere, and compelling characters, Hellsing Ultimate is a must-watch for vampire anime fans.
2. Monogatari Series
| Genres | Comedy, Mystery, Supernatural, Ecchi |
| Release Date | 2012 |
The Monogatari series follows Araragi, an ex-vampire who retains some supernatural abilities. Though he remains linked to the vampire who cursed him, his main focus is aiding those afflicted by supernatural phenomena.
Known for its unique animation style and intricate storytelling, Monogatari blends psychological, supernatural, and philosophical themes. While vampirism isn’t always the central focus, Shinobu—one of anime’s most iconic vampires—plays a crucial role throughout the series.
1. Seraph of the End
| Japanese Title | Owari no Seraph |
| Genres | Action, Drama, Fantasy |
| Release Date | 2015 |
Based on Takaya Kagami’s manga, Seraph of the End is a gripping 24-episode series.
In a post-apocalyptic world where a virus wipes out most of humanity, vampires rise to power. The protagonist, Yuuichirou Hyakuya, seeks revenge after witnessing the brutal murder of his loved ones. Driven by loss and rage, he joins the Moon Demon Company to eradicate vampires.
With intense battles, a compelling story, and a richly developed world, Seraph of the End stands as one of the best vampire anime ever made.
Which of these anime have you watched? Are there any you would add to the list?
