15 scariest horror anime to watch this Halloween

As a seasoned anime enthusiast with over two decades of viewing under my belt, I must say that these three shows are truly something special! If you haven’t dived into the world of Dandadan yet, let me tell you – it’s a rollercoaster ride of supernatural fun! With its unique animation style and balanced blend of comedy and drama, it’s sure to leave you wanting more.


Looking for some truly terrifying anime to watch this Halloween? Then you’re in the right place. 

As Halloween draws near, I can’t help but feel the thrill of excitement, knowing that this is the time when I, along with fellow horror enthusiasts, seek out the most chilling films and series that will send shivers down our spines. It’s like a yearly tradition, a hunt for the scariest content to feed our craving for the eerie and the unsettling.

If you’re an anime enthusiast wondering what to watch next, fear not! There are numerous terrifyingly good anime series out there that will send chills up your spine. To help you get into the Halloween spirit, our horror connoisseurs have compiled a must-watch list of titles for Terror-Tober, so grab some popcorn and prepare to be scared!

So what are you waiting for? Just don’t blame us if you have nightmares…

15. Ghost Hunt (2006-2007)

15 scariest horror anime to watch this Halloween

Director: Akira Mano

As a devoted enthusiast, I’d like to highlight the exceptional cast of this captivating series:

Title Synopsis: “Ghost Hunt” revolves around sixteen-year-old Mai, who incurs a debt by damaging costly ghost-hunting tools owned by local paranormal investigator Kazuya Shibuya. As a result, she agrees to work off her debt temporarily as his assistant, embarking on various thrilling and chilling excursions.

Why we love it: Ghost Hunt is a perfect blend of horror and comedy. While the series isn’t particularly long – Mai only goes on eight adventures – there’s a nice mix of paranormal cases along the way. Sometimes the culprits are human, sometimes they’re ghosts, and even a monster two makes an appearance. Still, whatever the cause, the series manages to build the tension as it goes without ever losing its incredible sense of humor. 

IMDb Score: 7.4

Words by Tulisha Srivastava

14. Corpse Party: Tortured Souls (2013)

15 scariest horror anime to watch this Halloween

Director: Akira Iwanaga

Cast: Hiro Shimono, Rina Satō, Asami Imai (Japanese)

Topic Summary: When the quartet of friends conduct a rite for their departing schoolmate, Mayu Suzumoto, they unintentionally whisk themselves away into a nightmarish realm teeming with peculiar dangers.

From my perspective as a fan: Tortured Souls peels back layers from the game’s world-building to deliver an intense focus on its graphic violence. Over four gripping episodes, our protagonists meet grisly ends in ways that might make even the most hardcore gore enthusiasts squirm. If you’re a fan of the macabre and haven’t already dived into it, this could be your next fix.

IMDb: 6.3

Words by Anthony McGlynn

13. Another (2012)

15 scariest horror anime to watch this Halloween

Director: Tsutomu Mizushima

Characters: Natsumi Takamori, Atsushi Abe, and Madoka Yonezawa in Japanese; while Monica Rial, Greg Ayres, and Jessica Boone provide the English voices for them.

Main Topic: A mysterious connection develops between Kouichi Sakakibara, a newly transferred student at Yomiyama North Junior High, and his classmate Mei Misaki. However, an oddity arises because none of the other students can perceive her, leading to even more peculiar events unfolding.

Why we love it: Another is a captivating story that will keep you guessing until the very end. As you’d expect for a show focused on death, it has an incredibly eerie atmosphere. I should also warn you that just three episodes in, you’ll see one of the most ridiculously gory and improbable deaths ever seen in anime. Still, all this violence and tension make this a fun watch for those who love things that go bump in the night. 

IMDb Score: 7.5

Words by Tulisha Srivastava

12. Shiki (2010-2011)

15 scariest horror anime to watch this Halloween

Director: Tetsurô Amino

Characters: Toru Ookawa, Kouki Uchiyama, Kazuyuki Okitsu (Originally from Japan) / David Wald, Jerry Jewell, John Burgmeier (Voiced in English)

The story unfolds in the quaint little town of Sotoba, where people are well-acquainted with one another. In this town, Dr. Toshio Ozaki is on a quest to uncover the cause of an unusual sickness that’s claiming the lives of its residents.

What makes it special: Although Shiki’s concept isn’t entirely unique, it manages to be highly engaging. The later episodes, in particular, caught my attention as they offered a unique perspective, revealing the monstrous side of the strange illness. In summary, Shiki is an intriguing anime series that presents a captivating viewpoint on humanity’s inhumanity.

IMDb Score: 7.6

Words by Tulisha Srivastava

11. Hell Girl (2005-2006)

15 scariest horror anime to watch this Halloween

Director: Takahiro Omori

Characters: Mamiko Noto, Masaya Matsukaze, Takako Honda (voices in Japanese) or Brina Palencia, Todd Haberkorn, Jennifer Seman (voices in English)

As a fan, I’d describe it like this: This intriguing anime series is centered around a mysterious website named “Hell Correspondence.” When people sign up for this site, they unwittingly summon Ai Enma, a demonic figure who offers a chilling deal. Desperate individuals seeking revenge find themselves drawn to her deadly proposition.

We appreciate it because: Hell Girl skillfully utilizes its storytelling structure by featuring some of the most dislikable characters in anime history. It’s logical, as audiences aren’t inclined to watch virtuous individuals being sent to Hell. However, despite its unsavory characters, the latter episodes, which delve into Ai’s past and explain her transformation into Hell Girl, add a fascinating layer to this series.

IMDb Score: 7.4

Words by Tulisha Srivastava

10. Interviews With Monster Girls (2017)

15 scariest horror anime to watch this Halloween

Director: Ryō Andō

As a dedicated gamer, I’d often find myself immersed in the vibrant world of virtual reality, with characters like Kaede Hondo, Minami Shinoda, and Junichi Suwabe (in Japanese), or Bryn April, Terri Doty, and Cris George (in English) by my side. Each one bringing a unique flavor to the narrative, making every gaming session an unforgettable adventure.

Topic Overview: The anime titled “Interviews with Monster Girls” isn’t spooky, but rather a heartwarming choice for this Halloween season. It revolves around three high school girls who are somewhat unique compared to their peers. They are Demi-humans, individuals with extraordinary abilities living harmoniously among regular humans.

We adore this anime because it stands out in the crowd of supernatural genres, offering a unique perspective. It features characters like a vampire, snowwoman, dullahan, and succubus, yet they lead everyday lives alongside humans. The series skillfully combines humor with weighty themes as we delve deeper into these demi-humans’ stories. This blend allows viewers to relate and empathize with the characters, making it a remarkable accomplishment.

IMDb Score: 7.3

Words by Tulisha Srivastava

9. Gakkou Gurashi (2015)

15 scariest horror anime to watch this Halloween

Director: Masaomi Andō

Characters: Inori Minase, Ari Ozawa, M.A.O (Original Japanese Voices); Brittney Karbowski, Juliet Simmons, Luci Christian (English Dubbed Voices)

As a devoted fan, I’d describe it like this: My initial experience was watching a delightful story of a schoolgirl’s daily life. However, the tale takes an unprecedented turn, making it a must-watch with each fresh viewing.

What we think: To tell you why this is on this list would be to spoil a massive twist. Just trust us – this is far darker than what it seems, and you’ll see why in the first episode.

IMDb: 7.1

Words by Anthony McGlynn

8. Flowers of Evil (2013)

15 scariest horror anime to watch this Halloween

Director: Hiroshi Nagahama

What it’s about: Three high school students are in a malformed love triangle, where one blackmails another after witnessing them commit a crime.

If Cruel Intentions from The OC were remade, it would be similar to The Flowers of Evil – a melodramatic thriller full of teenage hormones and emotions. In this story, Kasuga is caught playing a prank on another student by Nakamura, who then starts interfering in his life in strange ways. As the story unfolds, it becomes more intense and psychological.

IMDb: 7.6

Words by Anthony McGlynn

7. Higurashi When They Cry (2006)

15 scariest horror anime to watch this Halloween

Director: Chiaki Kon

Characters: Souichiro Hoshi, Mai Nakahara, Yukari Tamura (voices in Japanese); Grant George, Mela Lee, Rebecca Forstadt (voices in English)

The narrative unfolds around Keiichi Maebara in the serene town of Hinamizawa during the summer of 1983. As Keiichi gears up for an annual village celebration, a series of mysterious deaths and disappearances start to occur. This raises questions: What’s truly happening within this seemingly peaceful place? And could it be that Keiichi’s companions have information they aren’t revealing to him?

Why we love it: Higurashi When They Cry is a gripping thriller with more twists and turns than a Japanese backstreet. What makes this series truly special, though, is its focus on friendship and the risks friends will take for one another. Be warned, it’s a real roller coaster ride, and it can transition from classic slice-of-life fun to chilling mystery pretty quickly. 

IMDb Score: 7.8

Words by Tulisha Srivastava

6. Death Parade (2015)

15 scariest horror anime to watch this Halloween

Director: Yuzuru Tachikawa

Characters: Tomoaki Maeno, Asami Seto, Rumi Ookubo (Original Japanese Voices) / Alex Organ, Jamie Marchi, Jad Saxton (English Dubbed Voices)

After passing away, there’s no heaven or hell waiting for you. Instead, you find yourself in a bar where your soul will undergo a test. The bartenders decide based on this test whether you should be reborn or sent into nothingness.

Why we love it: This is an anime that questions the very essence of humanity. As the souls fear for their lives, they slowly reveal their true nature to the bartenders. The concept of the anime is to judge the souls not according to the lives they lead but by their actions after death.

Although the narrative occasionally introduces fresh characters and follows their individual arcs before they move on, there’s a larger, continuous storyline that ties everything together. Particularly noteworthy is the central character with black hair, who serves as an emotional anchor, shaping the broader context of the series.

IMDb Score: 7.8

Words by Tulisha Srivastava

5. Devilman Crybaby (2018)

15 scariest horror anime to watch this Halloween

Director: Masaaki Yuasa

Characters: Kōki Uchiyama, Ayumu Murase, Megumi Han (Voice Actors – Japanese Version) / Griffin Burns, Kyle McCarley, Cristina Vee (Voice Actors – English Version)

What it’s about: Two friends take the battle against ancient demons by becoming part of them, leading to some terrifying and existential consequences.

In our opinion: The modern adaptation of Devilman CryBaby vividly updates the ’70s version, emphasizing gruesome body transformations and deep-seated fears. When the main character experiences his demonic metamorphosis, it opens a Pandora’s box that provides profound insights into our identity and struggles. It’s rewarding but may not be suitable for the sensitive viewer.

RT score: 89%

Words by Anthony McGlynn

4. Elfen Lied (2004)

15 scariest horror anime to watch this Halloween

Director: Mamoru Kanbe

Cast: N/A

In essence: A teenager possessing invisible telekinetic arms manages to break free from a confining laboratory, leaking blood behind her as she flees.

What we think: Short, sweet, and oh-so bloody, Elfen Lied doesn’t pull any punches. From the jump, it’s clear protagonist Lucy can do some serious damage, despite her soft demeanor. The tension of cutesiness and flying body parts keeps the show thrilling, even when it gets a bit odd toward the end.

RT score: 100%

Words by Anthony McGlynn

3. Dandadan (2024)

15 scariest horror anime to watch this Halloween

Director: Fûga Yamashiro

As a dedicated gamer, I find myself immersed in a captivating virtual world with characters voiced by the talented Shion Wakayama, Natsuki Hanae, and Ayane Sakura in Japanese, or Abby Trott, AJ Beckles, and Lisa Relmold in English. Each of these voices brings their unique charm to the game, making the experience all the more engaging for me as a player.

Main Theme: Dandadan is a trending new shonen anime that focuses on Momo Ayase and her classmate Takakura. Momo has faith in ghosts, while Takakura thinks aliens exist. Interestingly enough, they’re both correct, and the story unfolds as these two characters tackle supernatural issues to regain their normal lives.

Why we love it: Boasting unique and eccentric animation, Dandadan is a beautiful show that does justice to the exquisitely drawn manga. While the show does have its dark elements, the comedy balances it out. Still, arguably, its greatest strengths are its outstanding character development and strong plot. If you’ve not seen it, check it out because Dandadan is in a league of its own.

IMDb Score: 8.6

Words by Tulisha Srivastava

2. Chainsaw Man (2022-present)

15 scariest horror anime to watch this Halloween

Director: Ryū Nakayama

Characters:

Main Topic: Denji, a struggling teen, strikes a bargain with the devil, transforming himself into a chainsaw-wielding creature. In this altered reality, he opts to aid in vanquishing other monstrous beings, shaping the world through an alternate historical context.

Chainsaw Man is a lively and energetic series that features a hero wielding multiple chainsaws as limbs, but it also serves as a sharp commentary on history repeating itself. Regardless, you’ll be in for edge-of-your-seat action, stunning visuals, and some of the most breathtaking color work within the genre – we can hardly wait to see what the Chainsaw Man movie brings!

RT score: 97%

Words by Anthony McGlynn

1. Demon Slayer (2019-Present)

15 scariest horror anime to watch this Halloween

Director: Haruo Sotozaki

Actors: Natsuki Hanae, Akari Kitō, Hiro Shimono (Original Japanese Version); Zach Aguilar, Abby Trott, Aleks Le (English Dubbed Version)

Main Topic: Tanjiro becomes a Demon Slayer following the tragic slaying of his family by demons who also attempted to turn his sister, coinciding with preparations for battle against the most lethal demon of all.

Our take: Demon Slayer is a show that effectively incorporates comic relief. The innocent simplicity of Tanjiro and the rest of the Demon Slayer Corps provides a contrast to the terrifying otherworldly threats, such as flesh puppets, giant spiders, and eternal bullies with inflated egos.

RT score: 87%

Words by Anthony McGlynn

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2024-10-27 13:49