Are you looking for anime shows with more than just epic battles and overpowered characters? Do you want to dive into mind-bending and emotionally-charged storylines? You are in luck because the world of anime has a whole genre dedicated to psychological thrillers. This article will provide you with a list of the top 10 psychological anime that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
10. Parasyte -The Maxim-
What happens when one of your friends is taken over by an alien without anyone noticing? This anime explores the possibility of an alien invasion where extraterrestrial parasites enter the human brain and live inside it. The main character, Shinichi Izumi, accidentally stops one of these parasites from taking over his brain. The two are then forced to work together to survive and create different scenarios while seeing life from a different perspective. You can watch Parasyte-The Maxim on Netflix.
9. Neon Genesis Evangelion
Neon Genesis Evangelion is a mecha anime that explores deeper and darker themes that rarely appear in the genre. Children are employed to pilot robots to fight against alien threats. However, the story unfolds into a battle that takes its toll on the mental health of the pilots. The anime showcases the collapse of the psyche of Shinjik Ikari and others. Neon Genesis Evangelion is available to stream on Netflix.
8. The Tatami Galaxy
The Tatami Galaxy has a unique premise. It is an isekai anime, which means that its main character is sent back to the past in his own world, trying to live his life countless times. Instead of seizing the opportunity to make his life better, he creates an unhappy love story and experiences a depressing life. The show has a unique style that stands out and serves as an excellent example of how small choices can have a significant impact on life. You can watch The Tatami Galaxy on Disney+ Hotstar.
7. Serial Experiments Lain
Serial Experiments Lain is a classic anime exploring the effects of the internet on individuals. Lain is a girl who is not connected to the real world. She receives an email from a deceased classmate that leads her to a virtual world, forcing her to exist in two separate worlds and ultimately lose herself. Although this anime may seem confusing and frustrating, it is an excellent depiction of the influence of technology on individuals. It is available to watch on Bstation.
6. Psycho-Pass
In Psycho-Pass, the police can scan people and determine whether they will become criminals before they commit a crime. The concept creates many emotional and philosophical moments throughout the series. Akane Tsunemori is a new member of the police force who wants to uphold justice but finds her ideology tested repeatedly. The show covers topics like police brutality that challenge viewers to think critically. You can watch Psycho-Pass on Netflix.
5. Steins;Gate
Steins;Gate is a time-travel anime that follows protagonists that accidentally discover the means to send messages into the past. However, their meddling with time has consequences that affect the future and leads to intriguing plotlines and suspenseful moments. Steins;Gate is well-known for its well-written characters and plot. You can watch Steins Gate on various streaming platforms.
These five anime along with Ergo Proxy, Perfect Blue, Death Note, Monster, and Ghost in the Shell are must-watch psychological anime that will keep you on the edge of your seat. The intriguing storylines, complex characters, and intricate plots will challenge you to think critically and keep you entertained throughout the series.
