If you’re a fan of mature anime with high ratings, you know that these shows are not your average anime. The stories and themes typically portrayed are too complex and often disturbing for those under 18 or even 21 years old. Mature anime, or seinen, commonly covers darker subjects such as violence, gore, dark humor, sexuality, and even harassment that aren’t suitable for underage audiences. Targeted for viewers 18 or 21 and above, mature anime has more freedom to express its visuals and narratives. Additionally, mature anime isn’t restricted to exploring only sexual topics; it also features provocative adult relationships that challenge the audience’s psyche.
While shounen anime dominates the anime landscape with fresh and exciting new titles, seinen anime isn’t left behind in capturing the hearts of anime lovers. In fact, many mature anime titles continue to earn high ratings on MyAnimeList, like these top-rated ones:
10. Made in Abyss — 8.67
Made in Abyss looks like a typical anime for children, but it’s anything but innocent. This show has its fair share of violence, gore, sexuality, and more that make it suitable only for mature viewers. The story follows Riko, a young diver, who embarks on a journey with her robot friend Reg to explore the unfathomable depths of the Abyss in search of her mother. Made in Abyss can be streamed on Disney+ Hotstar and Bstation.
9. Mushishi Zoku Shou — 8.70
Mushishi Zoku Shou is a unique anime centered around Mushi, strange creatures feared by humans. While they don’t necessarily intend harm, their existence often causes harmful side effects on humans. The anime follows the journey of Mushishi Ginko, whose job is to help the visible world coexist with the Mushi. It can be found on Bstation and YouTube.
8. Made in Abyss: Retsujitsu no Ougonkyou — 8.71
Made in Abyss: Retsujitsu no Ougonkyou continues Riko and Reg’s adventure into the Abyss. Riko becomes a White Whistle after surviving the savage Idofront challenge, allowing her and her friends to descend to the sixth layer, Unreturned District. They explore the region and uncover secrets about the famed Golden City of Embers. It can be streamed on Bstation.
7. Vinland Saga — 8.73
Vinland Saga is set in the year 1000 and tackles the ongoing conflict between England and Denmark. It follows the journey of Thorfinn, who wants to sail with his father to find a safer place to live in but gets sucked into Askeladd’s conflict. This show can be found on Netflix and Prime Video.
6. Mushishi Zoku Shou 2nd Season — 8.74
Mushishi Zoku Shou 2nd Season continues telling stories about Mushi’s involvement in humans’ lives, with Ginko traveling around to solve the weird scenarios the Mushi cause. You can watch it on Bstation.
5. Cowboy Bebop — 8.75
Cowboy Bebop is a classic anime that has aged gracefully. It follows the adventures of bounty hunter Spike and his gang. You can find this anime on Crunchyroll, Funimation, Netflix, and Hulu.
In conclusion, these top-rated mature anime shows on MyAnimeList are definitely worth checking out if you’re a fan of the genre. Just remember, they’re intended for adult audiences, so be prepared for the complex narratives and intense visuals it offers.
