What is Seinen Anime?
Seinen anime is a genre of Japanese animation that targets a male audience typically between the ages of 18 and 40. The term “seinen” refers to the demographic group for whom the anime is intended; often contains more mature themes and subject matter, such as violence, sexuality, and complex psychological themes. The characters and storylines are generally more realistic and less idealized than those found in shonen anime, which is aimed at younger males.
Seinen anime can cover a wide range of genres, including action, drama, romance, comedy, and science fiction. Some popular examples of seinen anime include Attack on Titan, Berserk, Ghost in the Shell, and Cowboy Bebop.
Overall, seinen anime is characterized by its sophisticated storytelling, complex characters, and mature themes, making it a popular choice among older anime fans who are looking for something more substantial than the typical anime fare.
For you adults who are looking for something to relieve your stres with a more complex and realistic anime story, I have top 5 best seinen anime of all time!
1. Shingeki no Kyojin / Attack on Titan
Shingeki no Kyojin, also known as Attack on Titan, is a popular Japanese manga and anime series written and illustrated by Hajime Isayama. The story is set in a dystopian world where humanity lives inside a walled city to protect themselves from man-eating giants called Titans. The series follows the story of Eren Yeager, Mikasa Ackerman, and Armin Arlert, who join the military to fight against the Titans and uncover the truth behind their existence.
With a thrilling mystery story, Attack on Titan can make you feel shock and an give you unexpected experience of the darkness and sadness from Eren who yearns for freedom.
Picture 1: Eren and Mikasa
2. Satsuriku no Tenshi / Angels of Death
Angels of Death, also known as Satsuriku no Tenshi in Japanese, is a Japanese horror anime television series adapted from a video game of the same name. The series follows Rachel Gardner, a 13-year-old girl who wakes up in a strange building with no memories of her past, and a serial killer named Zack, who offers to help her escape in exchange for her assistance in helping him achieve his own goal.
The story of Angels of Death is dark and intense, with a heavy focus on psychological horror and survival. The anime has been praised for its unique plot, complex characters, and striking visual style. The series consists of 16 episodes and was produced by J.C. Staff and directed by Kentarō Suzuki.
Angels of Death has gained a dedicated following since its release in 2018, with fans praising the series for its unsettling atmosphere and gripping storytelling. If you’re a fan of horror anime and psychological thrillers, Angels of Death is definitely worth checking out.
Picture 2: Isaac and Rachel
3. Vinland Saga
Adapted from a manga series of the same name by Makoto Yukimura, Vinland Saga is one of the best a historical anime television series. The story is set in Europe during the Viking Age and follows Thorfinn, a young warrior who seeks revenge against Askeladd, the man who killed his father. Thorfinn joins Askeladd’s band of mercenaries in order to get close to him and avenge his father’s death.
The anime adaptation of Vinland Saga has been praised for its stunning animation, dynamic fight scenes, and intricate character development. The series explores themes of revenge, morality, and the nature of violence in a world defined by conflict. Vinland Saga has been hailed as one of the best anime series of 2019 and has gained a dedicated following among fans of historical and action anime.
Overall, Vinland Saga is a powerful and thought-provoking series that delivers on both its action and dramatic elements. If you’re a fan of Viking history or action-packed anime, Vinland Saga is definitely worth checking out.
Picture 3: Thorfinn
4. Made in Abyss
Are you looking for seinen anime but the characters animated are children? Made in Abyss is the perfect answer for you.
This dark fantasy anime television series adapted from a manga series of the same name by Akihito Tsukushi. The story follows Riko, a young orphan who dreams of becoming a Cave Raider, an elite group of adventurers who explore the mysterious and treacherous Abyss, a vast and deep chasm that stretches into the depths of the earth.
As Riko journeys into the Abyss, she meets a humanoid robot named Reg who accompanies her on her quest to find her mother and unravel the secrets of the Abyss. The anime has been praised for its stunning animation, imaginative world-building, and emotionally engaging storytelling.
Despite its colorful and whimsical appearance, Made in Abyss delves into dark and mature themes such as death, sacrifice, and the limits of human curiosity. The series is known for its vivid and imaginative world, stunning visuals, and hauntingly beautiful soundtrack.
Made in Abyss is a compelling and thought-provoking anime that is definitely worth checking out for fans of dark fantasy and imaginative storytelling.
Picture 4: Riko and Reg
5. Dororo
A dark fantasy anime adapted from a manga series of the same name by Osamu Tezuka. The story follows Hyakkimaru, a young samurai whose body was taken from him by demons at birth. In order to reclaim his body, Hyakkimaru sets out on a quest to kill the 48 demons that were responsible for his plight.
Along the way, Hyakkimaru meets a young orphan named Dororo, who becomes his companion and helps him navigate the dangerous world he finds himself in. The anime has been praised for its intense action scenes, complex characters, and mature themes.
Dororo explores themes such as the consequences of war, the value of life, and the cost of revenge. The series is known for its striking visual style, unique character designs, and hauntingly beautiful soundtrack.
This anime seinen offers a unique take on the classic revenge story and is sure to keep you on the edge of your seat from beginning to end.
Picture 5: Dororo and Hyakkimaru
The anime series mentioned above offer a diverse range of genres and themes that cater to different tastes and preferences. Whether you are a fan of action, horror, historical, or fantasy anime, there is something for everyone to enjoy. These anime series have gained a dedicated following among fans and have received critical acclaim for their stunning animation, compelling storytelling, and memorable characters. If you’re looking for reccomendations of seinen anime to watch, give at least one of these series a try, and you might find your next favorite show.