Most of us have already heard of anime shows like Naruto,Bleach, and One Piece. They’re classics and highly talked about. But there are some anime shows that don’t get as much hype but deserve so much more. Let’s show a little love to some of these super awesome yet underrated anime shows and give them the love they deserve!
1. DNAngel
Aired: April 2003-September 2003
Studio: Xebec
Genres: Comedy, Romance, Action
I think I read the manga for this one before I saw the anime. It was super cute, though. I rewatched this a couple of times and still love the story. It’s simple, but that’s one of the reasons that makes it so amazing. It touches your heart and reminds you of a simpler time.
The MC, Daisuke, is an angel stealing artwork in hopes of preventing world destruction, if you put it in very simple terms.
Fun fact: Vic Mignogna (Edward Elric, Tamaki Suoh, Zero Kiryu) does the English opening song, and it’s truly beautiful!
2. Devils Line
Aired: April 2018
Studio: Platinum Vision
Genres: Action, Romance, Supernatural
I’ve done a couple of reviews of this anime already. I haven’t seen a ton of fans talking about it, hence, I would say it’s a pretty underrated anime. In fact, if you search for it, you might get a couple of images, but there’s a lot of mature content mixed in with some sketchy stuff. If you do go looking for it, make sure to add anime after it, or it could lead to some pretty dark places.
So far, I’m really enjoying this story. Vampires live alongside humans but have to be super careful because they are stronger and can easily hurt humans. They can also go into a frenzy and will kill if they see blood. Naturally, there is discrimination against them and harsh laws restricting their lifestyles because they are considered dangerous, and it is very easy for them to lose control.
Despite that, the vampires are essentially humans underneath. Most just want to live their lives, go to work, fall in love, and not be hated by everyone.
3. Full Moon o Sagashite
Aired: April 2002 to March 2003
Studio: Studio Deen
Genres: Music, Romance, Comedy
This is another super awesome yet underrated anime. Even though it is different compared to the mang, I still loved it. It was one of my first OTP’s and ships and I cried through both the anime and the manga.
We follow Mitsuki Kouyama, a young girl with throat cancer, who dreams of becoming a professional singer and reaching her friend Eichi, who moved to America. When two shinigami reveal she only has a year left to live, Mitsuki decides to chase her dream with their help, despite the risks.
4. Orb: On the Movements of the Earth
Aired: October 5, 2024 – March 15, 2025
Studio: Madhouse
Genres: Historical, Mystery, Science Fiction
Orb: On the Movements of the Earth is a historical drama set in a time when science and philosophy were still forming. It follows a young boy named Orb, who becomes fascinated by the movement of the Earth and the universe. He embarks on a journey to discover the truths of the world, struggling to balance his personal beliefs with the teachings around him.
Honestly, I loved how slow and thoughtful the story was. It felt almost meditative, like it gave me space to reflect on my own perspectives. The animation was super unique and elegant, though there were a few moments where it was a bit tricky to follow. The character development was really subtle, which I appreciated. Also, Orb’s growth wasn’t rushed at all. It’s definitely not a show for everyone, but it has this quiet charm that I really connected with!
5. Slam Dunk
Aired: October 16, 1993 – March 23, 1996
Studio: Toei Animation
Genres: Comedy, Sports, Drama
Slam Dunk is a classic sports anime that follows Hanamichi Sakuragi, a high school delinquent who gets roped into playing basketball to impress a girl. He starts off clueless and clumsy, but over time, he discovers a love for the sport and works hard to improve his skills.
I absolutely loved Slam Dunk. The humor was spot-on, and the character development was amazing. Hanamichi’s awkwardness and sheer determination made him super relatable and I found myself getting way more invested in the games than I expected.
What I loved the most was how Slam Dunk balanced comedy and drama. It never took itself too seriously, but it still hit you with some really emotional moments. It’s one of those feel-good anime that just makes you want to root for the underdog, and honestly, I was cheering for Hanamichi and his team from start to finish!
6. Space Brothers
Aired: April 1, 2012 – December 28, 2014
Studio: A-1 Pictures
Genres: Drama, Sci-Fi, Slice of Life
Space Brothers tells the story of two brothers, Hibito and Mutta, who share a childhood dream of becoming astronauts. While Hibito achieves his goal and lands on the moon, Mutta struggles with setbacks and self-doubt, but his determination keeps him pushing forward.
Warning: this show will definitely hit you right in the feels. It’s not just about space missions—it’s also about the personal growth of the characters. Watching Mutta’s journey was like following a real person, someone who isn’t perfect but gives it their all.
The pacing was great, and even though there were slow moments, they always built up to something meaningful.
Mononoke is one of those shows that stands out for its creativity. The narrative style is pretty unconventional, and it forces you to think deeply about the themes of regret, guilt, and human nature. Too bad it’s still one of the most underrated psychological anime, despite airing all the way back in 2007.
I was totally blown away by how the art and animation matched the eerie, unsettling vibe of the story—it’s unlike anything I’ve seen before. It’s definitely not an easy watch, but the complexity and boldness of it all make it so worth it.
The series follows the Medicine Seller, a mysterious traveler who hunts down evil spirits called mononoke. But here’s the twist: to defeat them, he has to figure out their mononoke—basically the key to their power, which is tied to their Form, Truth, and Regret.
8. Medalist
Aired: January 5, 2025 – Mar 30, 2025
Studio: C2C
Genres: Sports, Drama, Slice of Life
Medalist follows the journey of a young figure skater named Maru, who, after a series of unfortunate events, is determined to make a name for herself in the competitive world of figure skating.
I have to admit, I didn’t expect to get so emotionally invested in Medalist. The way it explores the pressures of competitive sports really hit home for me, and Maru’s perseverance through hardship was inspiring. The skating sequences were beautifully animated, capturing the elegance and intensity of the sport.
For those who like stories about pushing through adversity with a lot of heart, Medalist is a must-watch!
9. Girls Band Cry
Aired: April 6, 2024 – June 29, 2024
Studio: Toei Animation
Genres: Drama, Music
Another underrated and niche anime is Girls Band Cry. The show centers around a group of high school girls who form a rock band to cope with their personal struggles and express their emotions through music.
Even though I am not into musical anime, I unexpectedly enjoyed it. In this case, the music really helped set the tone for the emotional moments. The characters are relatable and authentic, so connecting to their personal journeys was fairly easy. All in all, I found myself rooting for them to find their way and overcome their struggles.
10. Cross Game
Aired: April 5, 2009 – March 28, 2010
Studio: SynergySP
Genres: Coming-of-age, Romantic Comedy, Sports
Just by looking at the key visual, you might think that Cross Game is just another straightforward sports anime. But you’d be wrong! Cross Game skillfully combines sports with deep emotional moments, resulting in a heartfelt story with a blend of sports action and relatable characters who struggle, make mistakes, and also grow along the way.
Cross Game follows the life of Kou, a talented baseball player who is struggling with the sudden death of his childhood friend, Wakaba. As he deals with grief, family pressures, and the game he loves, he finds unexpected support from her younger sister, Aoba, who’s also passionate about baseball.
Which of these underrated anime have you already seen or heard of? Do you have any favourites? Let me know in the comments below, and as always, keep smiling!
Best Vampire Anime of All Time? Vampires have been a continually popular genre for the last couple of decades. Maybe it’s their lore, blood-sucking, coffin dwelling, or sometimes deathly fear of garlic, crosses, and sharp pointy stakes? No matter the form they take we can’t seem to get enough of them, so here is our list of the Top 20 Best Vampire Anime of All Time!
As humans, we have always had a fear of what could lurk in the dark. And Bram Stoker’s original vision of the literary vampire seems to capture this fear well, monsters disguised as humans. There are few supernatural creatures more adored, more impressive, and popular. So in my Top 20 Best Vampire Anime of All Time, we will have many vampires from the monsters who long to be human again, to the vampires that just think of us as their next meal and every other vampire in between.
Here are the best 20 anime about vampires in no particular order that include not only a blood-sucking good time but beautiful animation, strong plots, and complex characters, for vampire anime fans!
20. Dance in the Vampire Bund
Studios: Shaft
Episodes: 12
Aired: Winter 2010
Dance in the Vampire Bund is a vampire anime that tries to explore its theme to its fullest to create a plot that is entertaining, surprising and examines how socially divided we are.
Plot Summary
For millennia, Mina Tepes, the princess-ruler of all vampires, has had to live in hiding with the rest of her kind. Tired of the isolation, she uses the vast wealth of her family line to pay off the entire national debt of Japan and build a special haven district for vampires off the coast of Tokyo.
This district, known as “The Bund”, is a step towards Mina’s wish for humans and vampires to live with each other’s existences. But human terrorists and extremist vampire factions wish to put a stake in Mina’s plans — and Mina herself. Now it’s up to this bloodsucking princess and her loyal werewolf protector, Akira, to keep The Bund intact from these attackers.
Dance in the Vampire Bund is an anime with a lot going for it from the way it uses vampire myth and other supernatural elements, action, romance and philosophy makes it an anime worth trying even for non-obsessed vampire anime fans.
19. Ms. vampire who lives in my neighborhood.
Tonari no Kyuuketsuki-san
Studios: Studio Gokumi, AXsiZ
Episodes: 12
Aired: Fall 2018
Ms. vampire who lives in my neighborhood. is a vampire anime that is different in how it approaches its theme instead of mystery, horror, action and suspense. We get a nice slice of life, yuri, Shoujo Ai and a bit of supernatural element.
Plot Summary
High school girl Akari was lost in a forest where she was rescued by a vampire girl named Sophie. Since then, Akari has developed a liking for Sohpie, who prefers to be alone.
Ms. vampire who lives in my neighborhood. is an anime that does not take itself too seriously that makes fun of itself and otaku culture rather than a serious plot. It will definitely put a smile on your face, that is a relaxing and refreshing take for a theme with a usually bloody darker tone.
18. Noblesse: Awakening
Studios: Production I.G
Episodes: ONA
Aired: February 4th, 2016
Noblesse: Awakening was a long overdue anime for fans of the manhwa series of the same name and was a setup for the later 13 episodes anime television series that would come out 4 years later.
Plot Summary
He awakens. For 820 years he has slumbered with no knowledge of humanity’s advancements and scientific achievements. The land which he once knew has become an unfamiliar place with new technologies, attitudes, and lifestyles.
Cadis Etrama Di Raizel, Rai, while seeking to familiarize himself with this era, somehow locates a loyal servant of his, Frankenstein, who is currently the principal of a South Korean high school. Rai decides that this high school would be the perfect place to help him learn about the unknown world.
He enrolls, and suddenly becomes the friend of Shinwoo, an immature teenager who is also a master martial artist. But this unknown world is no safer than the old, and the dignified, bewildered, technologically illiterate Rai finds himself caught up in adventures both hilarious and dangerous.
Noblesse: Awakening is a 30 minute long ONA that is quite enjoyable to watch that felt like a bishie vampire anime series to me at least but without the annoying parts and made me try out the manhwa. It definitely has a bit for everyone.
17. Servamp
Studios: Brain’s Base, Platinum Vision
Episodes: 12
Aired: Summer 2016
Servamp is a vampire anime that seems like your usual shounen anime but it was more than that. It is an anime that strangely grew on me a bit.
Plot Summary
When a stray black cat named Kuro crosses Mahiru Shirota’s path, the high school freshman’s life will never be the same again. Kuro is, in fact, no ordinary feline, but a servamp – a servant vampire. While Mahiru’s personal philosophy is one of non-intervention, he soon becomes embroiled in an ancient, altogether surreal conflict between vampires and humans.
Servamp is a beautifully coloured series with surprising depth now and then in the story, while still being amusing and funny all at once. It’s enjoyable.
16. Kizumonogatari Part 1: Tekketsu
Kizumonogatari I: Tekketsu-Hen
Studios: Shaft
Episodes: Movie
Aired: January 8, 2016
Kizumonogatari Part 1: Tekketsu is a three-part movie and all of them are great and it’s an anime movie that has all the artistic concepts, the quality animation, great music, some hilarious fan service sprinkled on top and of course the amazing plot.
Plot Summary
Koyomi Araragi, a second-year high school student at Naoetsu High School, befriends Tsubasa Hanekawa, the top honours student at his school. Tsubasa mentions a rumour about a “blonde vampire” that has been sighted around their town recently. Koyomi, who is usually anti-social, takes a liking to Tsubasa’s down-to-earth personality. That evening, Koyomi encounters this rumoured vampire: she is Kiss-shot Acerola-orion Heart-under-blade, also known as the “King of Apparitions.” The blonde, golden-eyed vampire cries out for Koyomi to save her as she lies in a pool of her own blood, all four of her limbs having been cut off by three vampire hunters. Kiss-shot asks Koyomi to give her his blood in order to save her life, and when he does, Koyomi finds himself reborn as her vampire subordinate. – Wiki
Kizumonogatari Part 1: Tekketsu is a vampire anime that’s a masterpiece in every form of the word. It serves as a prequel to the main series Bakemonogatari. If you haven’t seen this movie, then give it a chance, you won’t be disappointed.
15. Blood Lad
Studios: Brain’s Base
Episodes: 10 + OVA
Aired: Summer 2013
Blood Lad is a vampire-themed anime that is less grim and more entertaining. Handling and balancing its plot of vampires, other supernatural and fanservice well.
Plot Summary
Staz is the vampire boss of a section of the demon world, but he has little interest in human blood. He’s more infatuated with Japanese culture. When he learns that Yanagi Fuyumi, a Japanese teenage girl, accidentally wanders into the demon city, he jumps to the occasion. However, while Staz deals with an intruder on his turf, the oblivious Fuyumi is killed by a monster and becomes a wandering ghost. The disappointed Staz vows to her he will bring Fuyumi back to life.
Blood Lad doesn’t give too much away, leaving us the viewers to make the connections and fill in the dots between characters and places which really adds to its mysterious level and leaves a lot of unanswered questions. Even though it is a simple and fun show to watch.
14. Vampire Princess Miyu
Kyuuketsuhime Miyu (TV)
Studios: AIC
Episodes: 26 + OVA
Aired: Fall 1997
Vampire Princess Miyu is a vampire anime though seeming repetitive at first glance is a series with brilliant character study, action, and a perfect moody dark feel to it.
Plot Summary
Miyu is an eternally youthful vampire princess. She is the Guardian, whose duty it is to return the Shinma – god demons that prey on humans – to the dark. Her only companion and protector is Larva, a Western Shinma who is bound to serve her. Together, they hunt stray Shinma across Japan.
https://youtu.be/62RlzaQVitk
Vampire Princess Miyu’s plot was very realistic showing how not everyone got what they deserved or wanted. The art style and soundtracks are pretty amazing too, but this anime is definitely for the patient among us.
13. Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba
Kimetsu no Yaiba
Studios: ufotable
Episodes: 26
Aired: Spring 2019
Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba is another amazing shounen vampire anime on our list that has a fantastic animation. An excellent series with an easy-to-follow plot and not full of overly complex emotional characters.
Plot Summary
Tanjiro is the eldest son in a family that has lost its father. Tanjiro visits another town one day to sell charcoal but ends up staying the night at someone else’s house instead of going home because of a rumour about a demon that stalks a nearby mountain at night. When he goes home the next day, tragedy is waiting for him.
Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba is not your typical themed type of vampire, that may suffer from some pacing and poor character development but despite all of that is hugely entertaining, especially for vampire anime fans who love their aesthetics.
12. Black Blood Brothers
Studios: Group TAC
Episodes: 12
Aired: Fall 2006
Black Blood Brothers is a short, hilarious and action-packed vampire anime series that didn’t leave you guessing and speculating on fan theories in a good way.
Plot Summary
During a war called the Hong Kong Crusade, an Old Blood vampire, Jiro Mochizuki, a.k.a. the Silver Blade, fought and defeated the Kowloon king and most of the Kowloon Children. Ten years later, Jiro heads to Hong Kong with his younger brother, Kotaro Mochizuki, hoping to reach The Special Zone, a thriving secret city where Vampires live- (which is separate from the human civilized parts of the city). They soon realize that a plan to infiltrate the Special Zone is being hatched by the Kowloon Children survivors. As they travel to The Special Zone, Jiro encounters enemies from the past and new threats that may endanger the safety of the Special Zone including the citizens. Kotaro’s abduction, by one of the Kowloon Children, thrusts him even further into the battle. Along the way, he meets a human girl named Mimiko.—Wiki.
Black Blood Brothers is an anime that was adapted straight from the light novel, it is fun and easy to follow the story, and it has vampires and cute adorable Kotarou. You should try it.
11. Chibi Vampire Karin
Studios: J.C.Staff
Episodes: 24
Aired: Fall 2005
Chibi Vampire Karin is a good vampire anime for fans of the theme that also like romantic comedy anime, it’s the best of both worlds for them.
Plot Summary
Karin is a cute little girl who also is a vampire… with a twist. Once a month, she experiences intense bleeding from her nose – we’re talking gushers! She’s a vamp with blood to spare, so rather than stealing blood from humans she actually gives her blood to them. If done right, this can be an extremely positive experience that benefits the victim as much as the vampire. The problem is that Karin never seems to do things right!
Chibi Vampire Karin is a vampire anime that does not take itself seriously and it is better for it, instead, it focuses its attention on comedy, characters, fanservice, and colorful visuals. It is a series that is unusual and quirky and I like that about it.
Castlevania is a vampire anime that is gripping, hilarious, beautifully animated, dark, and moving. The characters are not one-dimensional, they all have their reasons they’re doing what they’re doing. Which really blurs the line between right and wrong and really makes you think.
Plot Summary
When his wife is burned at the stake after being falsely accused of witchcraft, the vampire Count Dracula declares all the people of Wallachia will pay with their lives. He summons an army of demons that overruns the country, causing the people to live lives of fear and distrust. To combat this, the outcast monster hunter Trevor Belmont takes up arms against Dracula’s forces, aided by the magician Sypha Belnades and Dracula’s dhampir son Alucard.—Wiki.
As a vampire anime series, Castlevania is a masterpiece, thanks to its animation, superb voice acting, character design and well-written plot.
9. Trinity Blood
Studios: Gonzo
Episodes: 24
Aired: Spring 2005
Trinity Blood is a vampire anime series that incorporates a lot of ideas from a lot of anime we have loved and enjoyed over the past, and it is honestly better because of it. It has an engaging plot and for vampire anime fans that love character-driven stories; it ticks all the boxes.
Plot Summary
The background is in the distant future, a post-apocalyptic world after the destruction brought about by Armageddon. The war between humans (Terran) and vampires (Methuselah) continues, as a struggle between two factions: the Vatican and the New Human Empire. Yet, amidst the bloodshed and violence, many desire a peaceful co-existence between the two species. However, standing between them and this goal is the Rosenkreuz Orden, a group of vampire extremists who manipulate the two sides and pit them against each other. To combat them, the Vatican special operations group “AX”, led by Cardinal Caterina, must use everything they have – even a vampire who preys on the blood of other vampires.
https://youtu.be/3MOK2mM2cRk
Like actual trinities to enjoy Trinity Blood, try reading the manga and light novels first because each adds its own dimension of the Trinity Blood universe, but as a stand-alone the anime is also pretty ok.
8. Hakuoki: Demon of the Fleeting Blossom
Hakuouki
Studios: Studio Deen
Episodes: 12 + OVA
Aired: Spring 2010
Hakuoki: Demon of the Fleeting Blossom is a vampire anime that mixes reality and imagination well in its plot to create a really amazing anime.
Plot Summary
Chizuru Yukimura heads to Kyoto to search for her father, finding herself attacked by madmen before members of the Shinsengumi who mistake her for a boy and take her into custody for interrogation cut them down. Upon learning that she is a girl and the daughter of a doctor who developed the Water of Life elixir that turns those that drink it into invincible blood-lusting berserkers called Rasetsu, the Shinsengumi decide to keep her as an aide in their search. In time, as the Shinsengumi aid the shogunate in the Bakufu, Chizuru develops a bond with the Shinsengumi and its aloof member Toshizo Hijikata. However, as time passes, Chizuru and Shinsengumi confront a mysterious faction who call themselves Oni (Demons) and that Chizuru is also an Oni with her father revealed to be experimenting on the Water of Life to create the Rasetsu to conquer humans.—Wiki.
Hakuoki is a reverse harem vampire anime with exceptional fight scenes, good-looking characters, humor, and history of the civil war times and the early era. It’s definitely not for every vampire fan but if you also like swordsmanship and history this is for you.
7. Tsukuyomi: Moon Phase
Studios: Shaft
Episodes: 25 + OVA
Aired: Fall 2004
Tsukuyomi: Moon Phase is a vampire anime that charts its own course on what a vampire should be like which in their case is less dark and brooding but cute as a kitten with Moe aspects.
Plot Summary
When you come from a family of exorcists and mediums, you’re expected to have certain powers. But despite having a psychic lineage, Kouhei Midou can’t predict the future, nor can he see dead people. He’s powerless in every sense of the word. However, he thinks fast on his feet—and with a little help from his psychic cousin Seiji, he’s an amazing crime solver. The mystery he wants to solve more than anything is his mother’s tragic disappearance. But it isn’t easy… especially in this world, where nothing is as it seems. Cats talk, blood-sucking vampires roam the earth, and monsters eat guys like Kouhei for breakfast. Can Kouhei survive this chaos long enough to find the mother that he’s lost?!
Tsukuyomi is for the vampire fan that wants something different, a casual romantic comedy, with cat-eared girls, little-sister type themes and lot lot of moe.
6. Kurozuka
Studios: Madhouse
Episodes: 12
Aired: Fall 2008
Kurozuka is a series I found captivating, it’s a vampire anime series about vampires, love, betrayal, and revenge. And even though the plot can confuse there is a story here, leaving you wondering what you should value more life or time.
Plot Summary
Escaping from a brother who had just ascended the throne, Yoshitsune, along with his servant, comes across a house in the middle of a desolate mountain. Oddly enough, only a young woman lives there, who seems to possess a very dark past. It a story of obsessive love and constant purse told over a 1000 year period.
https://youtu.be/K4Ek1IfVtxk
Kurozuka is a great anime for the vampire fan that loves action, gore, cyberpunk, and being left thinking at the end.
5. Seraph of the End: Vampire Reign
Owari no Seraph
Studios: Wit Studio
Episodes: 24 + OVA
Aired: Spring 2015
Seraph of the End: Vampire Reign is a vampire-themed anime I would recommend to beginners or people who have patients because it’s a slow burn type of plot that only gets more interesting gradually.
Plot Summary
One day, a mysterious virus appeared on Earth which killed every infected human over the age of 13. Vampires emerged from the world’s dark recesses and enslaved humanity. Enter Hyakuya Yuuichirou, a young boy, who along with the rest of the children from his orphanage, are treated as livestock by the vampires. Even in captivity, Yuuichirou dreams big. He dreams of killing vampires. He dreams of killing them all.
Most of the improvements to the show happen in the second season, but maybe that is how it’s supposed to be when you have a story to tell slow and steady build-up. It’s full of memorable fights and a variety of emotions that are sometimes relatable. It is serious for its own good sometimes but it is a memorable series.
4. Vampire Hunter D: Bloodlust
Vampire Hunter D (2000)
Studios: Madhouse
Episodes: Movie
Aired: August 25th, 2000
Vampire Hunter D: Bloodlust is a gripping vampire anime film with artistic animation, suspense, action, and some of the best character development in a plot I have seen. And does better than the last movie.
Plot Summary
12,090 A.D. It is a dark time for the world. Humanity is just crawling out from under three hundred years of domination by the race of vampires known as the Nobility. The war against the vampires has taken its toll; cities lie in ruin, it fragmented the countryside into small villages and fiefdoms that still struggle against nightly raids by the fallen vampires and the remnants of their genetically manufactured demons and werewolves.
The story revolves around D, the infamous “dhampir” (born of a vampire father and a human mother) outcast and renowned vampire hunter. His prowess at hunting the creatures of the night allowing his acceptance among humans, they call him to locate Charlotte Elbourne, the lovely daughter of an affluent family who has been mysteriously kidnapped.
Vampire Hunter D is a vampire anime true and true with gothic themes, gore, beauty and shows vampires as both physically strong but emotionally weak beings. Which is always fun to watch and analyze.
The Best Vampire Anime of All Time Honorable Mentions
Bakemonogatari
Studios: Shaft
Episodes: 15
Aired: Summer 2009
Princess Resurrection (Kaibutsu Oujo)
Studios: Madhouse
Episodes: 25 + OVA
Aired: Spring 2007
Vampire Knight
Studios: Studio Deen
Episodes: 13
Aired: Spring 2008
Vassalord
Studios: Production I.G
Episodes: OVA
Aired: March 15th, 2013
JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure (JoJo no Kimyou na Bouken (TV))
Studios: David Production
Episodes: 26
Aired: Fall 2012
Bonus Round of The Best Vampire Anime of All Time
Rosario + Vampire (Rosario to Vampire)
Studios: Gonzo
Episodes: 13
Aired: Winter 2008
UQ Holder! (UQ Holder!: Mahou Sensei Negima! 2)
Studios: J.C.Staff
Episodes: 12 + OVA
Aired: Fall 2017
Strike the Blood
Studios: SILVER LINK., Connect
Episodes: 24 + OVA
Aired: Fall 2013
Renkin San-kyuu Magical? Pokaan
Studios: Remic
Episodes: 15
Aired: Spring 2006
3. Blood+
Studios: Production I.G
Episodes: 50
Aired: Fall 2005
Blood+ is one of the best vampire shounen anime with a superb plot and the animation still holds up till today, each episode is as good as the last. It’s a series that combines a lot of genres and they all still fit nicely together.
Plot Summary
It initially set the series in September 2005 in Okinawa City (Koza) on Okinawa Island near the US Kadena Air Base. Under the care of her adoptive family, the protagonist Saya Otonashi had been living the life of an anemic amnesiac, but otherwise ordinary schoolgirl. However, her happy life is shattered when she is attacked by a Chiropteran, a hematophagous bat-like creature that lives by feeding on human blood. Saya learns she is the only one who can defeat them, as her blood causes their bodies to crystallize and shatter. Armed with her special Katana, Saya embarks on a journey with her family, friends, allies, and her chevalier Haji, to rid the world of the Chiropteran threat and recover her identity. The course of the journey reveals the background history of the Chiropterans and Saya’s mysterious past, which extends into the mid-19th century. Over the course of the series, Saya travels across the world from Japan to Vietnam, Russia, France, and finally the United States.—Wiki.
Blood+ is a vampire anime that I think all vampire anime fans will love, it is a series filled with a lot of emotions, action, sadness and is sometimes an underrated anime that is one of the most beautiful anime ever.
2. Shiki
Studios: Daume
Episodes: 22 + OVA
Aired: Summer 2010
Shiki is one of the best vampire anime series on our list, it’s an anime I think vampire anime fans should recommend to non-vampire anime fans to try to get them to like the theme. The plot is great and the build-up though slow was very well done.
Plot Summary
The story takes place on a hot summer in the nineties, in a small quiet village called Sotoba. A series of mysterious deaths spread in the village, when a strange family moves into the long-abandoned Kanemasa mansion. Toshio Ozaki, dean of the only hospital in Sotoba, initially suspects an epidemic. But as investigations continue and the deaths pile up, he becomes convinced that they are the work of the undead plaguing the village. A young man named Natsuno Yuuki, who hates living in the village, is pursued and surrounded by death.
Shiki is a vampire anime that is interestingly haunting and is a story that will stick with you long after the credits have rolled by. Using a small village to look at how we as humans try to ignore our problems.
1. Hellsing Ultimate
Studios: Madhouse, Satelight, Graphinica
Episodes: OVA
Aired: February 10th, 2006
No, the best vampire anime list would be complete without mentioning Hellsing Ultimate. It’s mind-bogglingly, thrilling, and dark. It really has some fantastic concepts about vampires that I really liked. The women also are not your usual damsel in distress you sometimes get in this type of series but capable.
Plot Summary
Vampires exist. It is the duty of Hellsing, an organization sponsored by the British government, to hide that frightening fact and protect the blissfully unaware populace. Along with its own personal army, Hellsing also has a few secret weapons. Hellsing has controlled Alucard, an incredibly powerful vampire, for years. Although he dislikes being a servant to the Hellsing family, he certainly enjoys his job as Hellsing’s vampire exterminator. Seras is a fledgling vampire and a former policewoman. Although reluctant to embrace her new self, she is still a valuable member of the organization. Integra Hellsing, the current leader, is usually fully capable of fulfilling her duty, but lately, vampire activity has been on the rise. Unfortunately, the cause is more alarming than anything she could have imagined. A group long thought dead has been plotting in secret since their apparent destruction over 50 years ago. Plotting to plunge England, and perhaps the entire world, into war.
Hellsing Ultimate is a series you have to watch though without being overly technical about it to enjoy. It plot is action-packed and interesting, characters are memorable and wicked cool overall. You should definitely watch.
So with that, we are done! Did any of the anime on the list make you nostalgic? Did you see any new anime to add to your watch list? Or have you watched them? And what did you think of them? Or is there one anime you thought I missed? I would like to read your thoughts in the comment section below.
If you’re wanting to watch Diabolik Lovers, I would suggest playing the game ONLY. I would rather watch Twilight for a better vampire story. Seriously. It’s that bad. Still, I promised a review…so here goes.
The Story…If You Can Call It That
At the behest of her father, Yui Komori goes to live in rape mansion, home to the six Sakamaki brothers—Shuu, Reiji, Ayato, Kanato, Laito, and Subaru—a family of vampires. Though at first the siblings are confused as to why the girl has arrived, they soon realize that she is to be their new “sacrificial bride,” not to mention their other, more carnal intentions for her. Also known as sexual rape.
After meeting the brothers, Yui quickly begins to question why her father would have sent her there. I’m wondering why he hasn’t been arrested yet. Child Protective Services should have been involved earlier.
Pretty much you will just be vomiting your brain cells out the entire time.
The story is overall ridiculous. Almost nothing gets explained. The main female character, Yui, is treated in such an awful way it’s actually painful to think about it. She gets molested and told that she’s worthless basically every time any of the vampire brothers talks to her. Even more so, not only Yui does Yui do absolutely nothing to stand up for herself, she actually starts CARING for the psychopathic brothers.
Obviously, though, she’s not the worst character in Diabolik Lovers. It’s the vampires who basically abuse Yui throughout these 12 episodes who bother me the most. Even though they were supposed to be hot and mysterious, something went horribly wrong, because they came out just gross.
Do not let the beautiful artwork fool you.
The show is full of sexy vampires to draw you in and the episodes are 12 minutes each, but don’t let this persuade you to watch the show.
You would expect a girl getting sexually harassed by 7 vampires a day would leave when given the option, but nope. Yui makes it seem like she wants to be in these predicaments. She pathetically tries to get away but gives up within the first few seconds. Not a strong leading character at all.
Laito, one of the vampires, is a very annoying character. The show would have been slightly less terrible if he wasn’t in it. Almost everytime he is in the scene he calls Yui “Little B****” It is very annoying and I wish he would just shut up!
I was sure the story would revolve around how the vampires start to like Yui one after one. I came to realized that this wouldn’t be the standard reverse harem story once Yui was bitten by a vampire. So I set my hopes on the other vampires. And I was totally wrong. They are a bunch of masochists that like nothing more than torturing Yui and kept her around only to suck her blood.
You will be coasting on the art for 3 or so hours telling yourself the plot will get better. Spoiler alert: it doesn’t. You keep waiting for it to pop up and it almost doesn’t until the end. Then you wonder why they even bothered to add one in because it is god awful. What you will be getting is 3 hours of continuous torture.
Yui is a mediocre dunce who is having a really difficult time realizing these dudes are just scumbags. Every time she approaches a guy she is shocked that he soon after sucks her blood. She has no spine so she usually lets him have his way with her after which she runs off scared only to come back and repeat the process. One vampire, the only tolerable one, even gives her the opportunity to leave but she stays to try and figure out the plot.
Almost every single male character in Diabolik Lovers makes my skin crawl because of their treatment of Yui. I take an issue with Yui because of the fact that she’s a walking doormat who just sits there and takes the abuse. Considering the fact that I also happened to grow up under circumstances where I was exposed to quite a bit of domestic abuse, it’s no stretch of the imagination to think that seeing crap like this unfold IN ANY MEDIUM is enough to make my blood boil.
You’ll spend most of your time yelling at the characters or throwing things at the screen.
Regardless, you WILL wonder how you managed to watch all 12 episodes of Diabolik Lovers in one sitting.
Final Thoughts
One thing I have to say: I read a summary before watching the anime and it sounded a lot more interesting than what actually happens. And that is the whole problem with this series. I think there might be actually material for a story somewhere, but the whole anime was distorted so much that it’s barely noticeable anymore.
Have you had to suffer through this show already? Or have you played the game? Let me know in the comments below.
I finally sat down to finish watching this anime after missing the last two weeks. But I’ve already read the manga, the anime itself wasn’t that bad. Still, the manga clears up a lot of confusion, and I still highly recommend it for anyone wanting to know what exactly is going on.
The biggest problem with this anime versus manga is that the original story is too big to be covered entirely in a short series anime. As a result, the anime ends up introducing way too many characters way too fast. We’re supposed to even care about them but a lot of them just come off as flat. We can’t cover them all, so for the vast majority of them, there is no sense of closure. I mean, we straight up have no idea what happens to some of them. And I’ll admit that I couldn’t even remember most of their names half the time.
For instance, Nanako (a.k.a. Zero Seven) could’ve taken Kikuhara out herself. Unfortunately, he has a strange hold over her, so she just can’t pull the trigger. It feels weird when a story thread suddenly cuts off with no sense of finality. That’s exactly what happens here. I wish the anime had explained more of her and not to mention, WHY Kikuhara is such a butthead. The manga goes into more detail as to why, but I wish the anime would have as well.
Hans Lee gets Tsukasa to safety after she gives Anzai her blood, but he pretty much has to go into hiding after he does. Unfortunately, the adaptation kinda glosses over this. Which I’m not a fan of since Lee has been and will always be one of my favorite characters. He risked his life to do so and barely is given a second glimpse.
As Anzai remains unconscious, he starts to see a memory from his youth. Kikuhara had taken him to see his father. That’s it, basically. I feel like there is so much more to it than what they showed, but that was it. A huge buildup and then…nothing. How very anti-climatic.
In fact, it seems as though they have assassinated Kikuhara. This same car explosion happens in the manga, but the guy survives it. In the anime, however, it looks pretty fatal. But hey, if there isn’t going to be a sequel, then it doesn’t really matter if Kikuhara survives the explosion or not. I’d be okay with there being a sequel and second season to this, but they’ll have to add more and explain a few things.
After Anzai wakes up, he despairs over the fact that he had lost control of himself and bitten Tsukasa. He loses faith in the idea of a human-devil romance. Kano(old guy…I think) tells him what really happened with his Father. Essentially, Anzai’s father was okay up until some terrible people killed his human girlfriend. As a result, he took revenge on them, but the deed made him lose himself completely. He then went on a rampage and killed more people. So he’s a bad guy, but there are reasons for it. Also, his mother fell in love with his father AFTER he was already locked up and considered a murderer. Which I thought could use a heck of a lot more explaining.
So the credits begin to roll, and afterward, there’s a time skip. Again, the adaptation skips over a ton of events to get to this point. Plus, I think it’s lame that they’re still blushing at each other at this stage of their relationship. But no matter, the story here is essentially over. The only context you need is that Tsukasa has now found a purpose in life: she’s going to devote her life to researching and understanding devils. And she and Anzai are together.
They could have explained why Anzai was even there though. Did they lift the ban on him? Did he just suddenly sneak out? The anime makes it appear like it’s a long time, but according to the manga, it’s only 10 weeks. This shouldn’t really surprise me since the anime has barely been following the manga anyway. But anywho…
Have you already watched it? I do seriously recommend it as I think it’s good. But still, read the manga. It gets better. And explains more. Devils Line Anime isn’t better than the manga, but you’ll like it!
The 9th episode of Devil’s Line was released just a few days ago and reactions were varied as usual. Devil’s Line seems to be a lot like Root Beer, you either really love it, or you completely hate it. There’s no in-between.
Episode 8 began right where it left off with Anzai catching Tsukasa when she fell out of the window. We get to see Anzai actually controlling some of the devil inside of him and even more of Hans Lee(who is really Yohannes, but I still prefer Hans).
Now, the anime itself hasn’t exactly been following the manga. Especially with episode 8, but that didn’t really surprise me since they would have to change the ratings and categories if the anime followed the manga exactly.
Getting to see how they reacted in a more intimate situation was actually adorable to me. It was surprising that they were going THAT far, that fast, but I still thought it was cute. The way they acted reminded me of a real couple and I was giggling and squealing during most of the moments.
With both episodes 8 and 9, we get to see a tiny bit more of a plot, but nothing surprising. When they introduced Chief Sako Anzai, of course, we all knew who she was.
Which of course, brings up more questions than answers. It makes you more curious about ONLO and what information they’re actually giving their workers.
Devil’s Line is still a good anime for you to watch, regardless of whether you’ve read the manga or not. I’ve said it before but it’s one of those shows that makes it easy to just believe that happiness and true love happens just because. Yes, their relationship came from out of nowhere and moved way too fast, but it’s cute, it’s relatable at times, and it’s something I’ll keep watching.
Have you seen Devil’s Line yet? Episode 3 was just released on OtakuStream and fans have been going crazy over it, with mixed reviews.
I just finished watching the third episode of Devil’s Line. I originally saw the third episode first and was immediately hooked. But, I’m kinda glad I did that since when I went back and watched the first two episodes, the very beginning was a little off-putting for me. Not sure if I would have kept watching if I had seen the first episode, well, first!
I don’t handle gore well! If you haven’t seen or heard of it yet, here’s a brief rundown…
*Warning: Contains Spoilers for those who haven’t read the manga or seen the anime*
Tsukasa Taira, a college student, is rescued from an attack by a devil, or vampire, that can blend in with the human population. Anzai Yuuki, her savior, is a half-devil who exploits his supernatural gifts as a member of a shadowy police task force that specializes in devil-related crime in Tokyo. As Anzai continues to keep guard over Tsukasa, the two quickly forge a tentative bond—one that Anzai fears will test his iron-clad rule of never drinking human blood …
Of course, the government does not know of their existence, because their appearance does not differ from humans. They also do not need to drink blood, but when they get a craving or get angry, they can become uncontrollable monsters.
What Do We Think?
The anime itself is cute, not counting for the blood and gore that comes with it being a vampire anime. The episode will only be a 12 episode anime, much like Ouran High School Host Club, and I’ve been waiting impatiently for the next one.
The first episode doesn’t do the manga justice. Instead of trying to develop Tsukasa and Akimura’s relationship naturally, the episode awkwardly squeezes in a flashback as the former watches the latter get stabbed to death, and even that final scene is inexplicably cut short: Just as Anzai jumps on Tsukasa to consume her blood, the credits roll, leaving anyone who hasn’t read the manga to wonder if the show’s hero is any better than all the other vampires. I understand that this is the point, but I don’t think the scene was supposed to communicate this point so poorly.
I would say first, that the manga is better than the anime…but then again what book isn’t better than the movie?
But would Anzai and Tsukasa’s relationship work?
Before, back in the whole Twilight phase, I would say yes. Even now, the hopeless romantic in me is inclined to agree. I love how Tsukasa loves Anzai despite their differences. Even when he becomes a monster, she just puts her hand on his cheek and my romantic fangirl heart melted. Despite Anzai being your typical “emo, angst-ridden” protagonist, I found myself rooting for him. Well, more for Tsukasa than him, but still.
The focus is just as much on struggling with living with the desire to eat humans as it is on combating those who desire to do so. I’m curious to see where the anime will go with this. I hope that the producers will follow the manga enough, and develop their relationship further. Even so, with it only being 12 episodes, it could be why they’re rushing the relationship in the first place.
What do you think? Have you already seen or read Devil’s Line? Let me know what you think in the comments below! As always,
It’s no secret that depression and mental illness sucks. Everyone has a different tolerance for these issues. Some people can get up, go to school or work, interact with others, and do other regular activities without a lot of stress. However, for some people, these “simple” activities can be overwhelming. I can’t even describe exactly how hard it is for me to even get out of bed most days.
I’m a little too introverted for my own good. Every day is a battle between my emotional, mental and physical health. I always have to work at even getting out of bed. After being on medication, I also discovered and was diagnosed with agoraphobia. Even leaving my room gives me anxiety. I scurry like a field mouse to the bathroom and the fridge. My night-side table is stocked with drinks and food so I can stay longer in my safe haven.
Discovering anime didn’t give me a magical light bulb moment of self-awareness, but it did help loosen walls I’d spent years constructing around my depression. What I saw in anime, was a world with paper-thin boundaries between realism and hyperbole. It was a reality I understood.
One example I’ll be using is Owari no Seraph or Seraph of the End. While watching it, I was memorized by one of the main protagonists, Yuu, and a conversation he had with another character Guren.
Seraph of the End Comparison to Anxiety Help
If you haven’t heard of Seraph of the End, I HIGHLY recommend it! Basically, in 2012, the world allegedly comes to an end at the hands of a “human-made” virus, ravaging the global populace and leaving only children under the age of thirteen untouched. (SOURCE) It is at this time that vampires emerge from the recesses of the earth, likely followed by age-old horrors of the dark thought only to be a myth. The vampires sweep the earth and claim it in a single violent stroke, subjugating the remnants of humanity and leading them beneath the surface to safety. This “protection” comes at the price of donating blood to their captors.
At the age of twelve, Yūichirō (Yu)and his friend and fellow orphan Mikaela plotted to escape along with the children in Hyakuya Orphanage. However, this resulted in their deaths, and Mikaela sacrifices himself for Yu to escape and be saved by members of the Moon Demon Company, an extermination unit of the Japanese Imperial Demon Army. Four years later, Yu dedicates his life to destroying vampires and seeks revenge against them for murdering his “family.” At the same time, it is revealed that Mikaela is still alive and is a vampire that Yu has sworn to exterminate.
In a forsaken world such as ours, there’s hardly a person left who hasn’t lost a loved one.”
Shinoa Hiiragi
But throughout the series, you can see what Yu is dealing with. He obviously(in my mind) has depression and PTSD. He’s dealing with a ton of mental illness. At the end of Chapter 9 of the bonus chapter in the manga(Vampire Reign), we have a scene between Yu and Guren that had me re-watching over and over again. It also sealed the fact that I was in love and obsessed with this fandom.
There is a flashback as Yu recalls the slaughtering of his family. Later, Yu wakes up in a room in an apartment complex. Guren is reading a book while sitting at his bedside.
Yu yells at Guren for getting in the way of his revenge and then ignoring him. Guren tells him he is loud and says he does not understand dumb-kid-speak.
Yu shouts that he is a strong warrior now and is doing 10,000 practice swings with his sword every day. He demands that Guren gives him a real weapon, but Guren refuses until Yu is strong enough. He says that anyone who is so dumb that all he can think about is his own personal grudge all day will not be able to protect anyone. Guren then says that being strong is not just about being good with a weapon. He says Yu needs something he wants to protect, such as friends, comrades, or family. Otherwise, Yu will be a weakling forever.
Yu says that he does not have any of those anymore and that anybody he even starts to like dies.
What Happens Next?
When Yu starts crying, Guren asks if he is going to cry and look pitiful just because he did not get his way. Guren calls him a child. Yu quickly wipes his tears and says he is not crying.
Yu says that Guren told him to just think about revenge if he could not find a reason to keep going, and he asks why Guren will not give him the weapons to do that. Guren tells him to quit looking to him for free handouts and says he is not Yu’s papa. Guren leaves.
The following morning, Guren says Yu can do it if he actually tries. Guren says Yu decided to save someone rather than try to get revenge. Guren says that, unlike him, Yu is still nice. No matter how hard he tries, he will be unable to live only for revenge.
Three years later, Yu meets up with the rest of Shinoa Squad in a ruined city and head off to exterminate some vampires. (SOURCE)
OVERCOMING Mental Illness Issues
Anime gives depression the visual to mirror the destruction it can cause in real life. I create new worlds every day to make sense of my depression, and doing this (fanfiction) relaxes me and lets me take out my fears on paper instead. As with Yu in Seraph of the End, I also have made great strides in overcoming my fears and anxiety throughout my reality. I related to Yu, especially during that scene with Guren.
I’ll admit though, at first I really didn’t like Guren but now I see him as more of a father figure for Yu. He grew on me. Though I still don’t like Ferid. He’s fabulous but he needs to stop hurting my babies.
These practices, over time, have become invaluable in my fight against sadness and fear. Since first watching I’ve discovered many other anime that portray or similarly describe depression. I’m better than I used to be — not necessarily because I’m happier, but because I’ve had the chance to recognize what my depression looks like and what it can do to my world. And each time I find a new anime that similarly depicts depression or any type of mental illness, it’s a bit like a mini therapy session.
No matter what, we CAN kick depression and mental illness in the face!
