One of the most iconic psychological anime series is Death Note.
This anime skillfully combines the strength of psychological elements, secrets, and supernatural factors.
If you are a fan of Death Note and looking for new psychological anime to challenge your intellect and emotions, the following five anime will surely satisfy your cravings.
5. Odd Taxi (2021)
Based on the manga by Kazuya Konomoto, Odd Taxi is a unique blend of humor and intrigue with its anthropomorphic animal characters. However, beneath its light-hearted exterior lies a complex psychological narrative that unfolds throughout the episodes.
The main character, Hiroshi Odokawa, is a reserved taxi driver who becomes embroiled in a mystery surrounding a missing girl. Odakawa’s journey leads him to meet various characters, each harboring their own secrets and psychological burdens. Much like Death Note, Odd Taxi masterfully balances tension and suspense, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats as they piece together the clues.
4. Terror in Resonance (2014)
Terror in Resonance, or Zankyou no Terror, is a deeply psychological thriller that engages viewers with its intricate plot. Directed by legendary ShinichirÅ Watanabe and produced by MAPPA Studio, this anime follows two teenagers, Nine and Twelve, who carry out terrorist attacks in Tokyo under the alias “Sphinx.”
Their actions stem from a troubled past and a critique of government authority, making it a compelling watch for those interested in psychological depth and complex characters. If you appreciate intense psychological narratives and intricate character studies, Terror in Resonance is a must-see.
3. Sonny Boy (2021)
Written and directed by Shingo Natsume, Sonny Boy presents a philosophical and cerebral tale, exploring the human condition from a unique perspective. The story revolves around a group of high school students who find themselves transported to an alternate dimension.
This new world, named “This World,” operates under different physical laws, forcing the characters to confront their own psychological states and philosophical dilemmas. Each episode feels like a thought-provoking journey, prompting viewers to deeply consider the abstract themes presented.
2. Steins;Gate (2011)
Despite a slightly slow start, Steins;Gate is a time-travel masterpiece that every fan of psychological anime like Death Note must watch. The story centers around Rintaro Okabe, a self-proclaimed mad scientist who stumbles upon a method of sending messages to the past.
Much like Death Note, Steins;Gate balances intense psychological tension with deep emotional arcs. Both series feature main characters who must grapple with significant burdens stemming from their unique circumstances and the decisions they make, often leading to unforeseen consequences.
1. The Flowers of Evil (2013) – An anime that elevates psychological themes to a new level.
Based on the manga by ShūzŠOshimi, The Flowers of Evil revolves around Takao Kasuga, a high school student who becomes infatuated with his classmate Saeki. This obsession leads him down a dark path filled with psychological turmoil as he navigates the complexities of desire and morality.
The animation’s unique rotoscoped style enhances the story’s rawness, diving deep into the psychological struggles of the characters. The exploration of shame, guilt, and existential dread makes The Flowers of Evil a compelling watch that delves into the darker sides of human nature.
