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August 28, 2025
August 28, 2025
Looking for a more mature anime catered for adults? Seinen might be the genre for you! Here is our top 20 list of the best seinen anime & manga!
>Looking for a more mature anime catered for adults? Seinen might be the genre for you! Here is our top 20 list of the best seinen anime & manga!
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As a welcome diversion from the usual high-energy Shounen formula, Seinen anime series and films are notable for their maturity, emotional weight, and depth. Often delving into darker topics like existentialism, political struggle, psychological strain, and the murky waters of morality, these stories are often written with mature readers in mind and defy the stereotype that “anime is for children.”
The Seinen demographic pulls no punches when it comes to its brutal crime dramas, gripping psychological thrillers, or slow-burning character studies. Both the anime and manga worlds have produced unforgettable Seinen masterpieces over the years; stories that challenge, provoke, and stick with you long after the credits roll. In this list, we’re diving into the 20 best Seinen anime and manga of all time, the ones that truly raised the bar.
|
Rank |
Title |
|
20 |
Vagabond |
|
19 |
Murder Mystery of The Dead |
|
18 |
Gantz |
|
17 |
Zom 100: Bucket List of The Dead |
|
16 |
The Rising of The Shield Hero |
|
15 |
Grand Blue Dreaming |
|
14 |
Ajin: Demi-Human |
|
13 |
Classroom of The Elite |
|
12 |
Oshi no Ko |
|
11 |
Tokyo Ghoul |
|
10 |
Kaiji: Ultimate Survivor |
|
9 |
Golden Kamuy |
|
8 |
Bungo Stray Dogs |
|
7 |
One Punch Man |
|
6 |
Parasyte: The Maxim |
|
5 |
Kaguya-sama: Love is War |
|
4 |
Samurai Champloo |
|
3 |
Vinland Saga |
|
2 |
Monster |
|
1 |
Berserk |

|
MyAnimeList Score |
Genres |
Status |
# of Chapters |
|
9.27 |
Samurai |
Completed |
327 |
Vagabond is a prime example of exceptional manga, as it encompasses all elements: action, thrills, surprise, drama, and even a touch of romance; all beautifully woven into Eiji Yoshikawa’s noteworthy original story. While it may not appeal to all, there’s a deep appreciation for Takehiko Inoue’s artistry, as the visuals can be quite graphic, sometimes approaching a grotesque level.
The main reason why Vagabond stands out as a top favorite manga lies in the storyline, where it explores the evolution of Musashi. He transforms from a reckless 17-year-old who dives headfirst into the siege of Sekigahara in pursuit of unmatched strength, into a mature young adult who understands the importance of choosing his battles wisely.

|
MyAnimeList Score |
Genres |
Status |
# of Episodes |
|
5.69 |
Supernatural |
Completed |
6 |
This anime, while not explicitly categorized as Seinen, resonates deeply with the themes and elements found in the demographic. Seinen anime generally cater to adult male viewers, featuring mature themes, intricate narratives, and darker tones, often incorporating psychological, horror, or suspense elements. Murder Mystery of the Dead exemplifies this genre with its post-apocalyptic zombie backdrop, themes of a psychological thriller, and emphasis on murder mysteries, particularly through its plot involving Mikoto Amano and six girls as they seek to unveil a killer within a confined tower.

|
MyAnimeList Score |
Genres |
Status |
# of Episodes |
|
6.99 |
Sci-Fi | Horror |
Completed |
26 |
If you can handle guts, blood, immorality, sex, violence, and all that entails, then let's discuss Gantz. Based on the manga by Hiroya Oku, Gantz is a dark and action-packed anime series that centers on Kei Kurono, a cocky high school student who, while rescuing a homeless man, dies in a train disaster with his buddy Masaru Kato. They awaken in a mysterious apartment with a black sphere dubbed Gantz, rather than in the afterlife. They and other recently departed people are forced to go on dangerous, high-stakes alien hunting missions in Tokyo by this mysterious entity.
Participants in these missions encounter hideous animals while wearing cutting-edge armor and weaponry, yet death is certain. As people struggle with fear, greed, and friendship, the series examines themes of morality, human nature, and survival. Mission points can lead to freedom or rebirth, but Gantz's enigmatic motivations and the psychological effects of unrelenting brutality make for a gripping, morally complex story.

|
MyAnimeList Score |
Genres |
Status |
# of Episodes |
|
7.73 |
Comedy | Adventure |
Ongoing |
12 + OVA |
Zom 100: Bucket List of the Dead might look like just another goofy zombie anime on the surface, but it’s so much more. It’s a bold, colorful exploration of what it really means to live. After years stuck in a soul-crushing job, Akira finally finds freedom, not by escaping zombies, but by chasing joy through a bucket list before he dies.
It’s not about survival, it’s about (slightly comedic) purpose. With vibrant animation, a unique paint-splatter aesthetic, and just the right dose of comedy, Zom 100 questions the notions of living, feeling alive, and surviving. It resonates with an older audience mainly because just like Akira, the majority of people just work their asses off to survive, not stopping for enjoy the joys of living.

|
MyAnimeList Score |
Genres |
Status |
# of Episodes |
|
7.25 |
Dark Fantasy |
Ongoing |
53 |
Sometimes referred to simply as Shield Hero, this show centers on otaku Naofumi Iwatani, who is unexpectedly transported to a fantasy realm as one of four fabled heroes. However, in contrast to the others, he possesses only a shield as his weapon, and is swiftly labeled as the weakest of the four. Betrayed and falsely accused, Naofumi finds himself cast out, without a penny to his name and scorned by those he was summoned to protect.
Alone and armed only with his shield, he embarks on a gradual, poignant quest for survival and redemption. As he journeys forward, he acquires unexpected allies and reveals sinister realities lurking within the kingdom’s political landscape and the impending doom. As a Seinen-Isekai anime, it is an engaging story of determination, suspicion, and development, where the most unlikely hero might transform into the world's greatest beacon of hope.

|
MyAnimeList Score |
Genres |
Status |
# of Episodes |
|
8.44 |
Ecchi | Comedy |
Ongoing |
14 |
This is the Japanese animation’s wild take on frat house comedies such as The Hangover or American Pie. It’s wild, absurd, and utterly amusing, a perfect watch for friends. While the second season is currently in production, the show features absurd drinking antics and exaggerated reactions, with razor-sharp comedic timing that ensures even repeated gags land with greater impact each time.
The cast is remarkable and each episode feels like a fresh celebration. No intricate storyline; just good times, drinks, and exceptional humor.

|
MyAnimeList Score |
Genres |
Status |
# of Episodes |
|
7.38 |
Horror |
Completed |
26 + 3 OADs |
The idea of transforming into a nonhuman entity and the necessity for self-protection has been explored in anime like Parasyte and Tokyo Ghoul, but Ajin raises the bar. Here, the conflict is far from mere dichotomy; it unfolds with layers and complexities that defy simple categorization. It also features numerous opponents, each group pursuing distinct objectives.
Another notable characteristic is its complex characters, particularly Satou, who is unpredictable and intriguing to observe, and has become a favorite villain of the season. Ajin has a plethora of remarkable characters that’d leave you uncertain about whom to support, as each individual has unique motives and reasons for their actions, almost to the point of gaining the viewer’s empathy. As it’s been likened to gems like Monster and Death Note, Ajin has a knack for leaving you curious about what would happen in the very next scene or episode.

|
MyAnimeList Score |
Genres |
Status |
# of Chapters |
|
7.95 |
Ecchi | Drama |
Ongoing |
38 |
With an ongoing manga and an unconfirmed fourth season, Shogo Kinugasa and Lerche have done the fanbase a great disservice by not saying anything about a fourth season. Everyone is all geared up for more mind games and psychological twists. 2017’s Favorite Male Character award winner, Kiyotaka Ayanokoji is also dubbed one of the smartest anime characters of all time, owing to his outstanding cold intellect while living as a student of Class 1-D in the Tokyo Metropolitan Advanced Nurturing High School.
In its comparison to Kakegurui, this series has been considered a bit of a letdown. While that is a highly controversial notion, it has also been praised for its character development, and heightened intensity in strategic and intellectual clashes. Also, the narrative unfolds in unexpected ways, with surprising twists that ensure each episode captivates the viewer's attention.

|
MyAnimeList Score |
Genres |
Status |
# of Episodes |
|
8.57 |
Slice of Life |
Ongoing |
24 |
Oshi No Ko is among the best Seinen anime of this season. It’s more than just showing the glamour, it also highlights the perils of the entertainment industry and attempts to reveal its inner workings. Unfortunately, it frequently restrains itself from fully engaging with the intended subject. The true horrors of the industry it claims to reveal are maintained at a comfortable and safe distance, as it still supports the message that being an idol and being in the industry itself is glorious, glitzy, and worthwhile.
It dishes a reincarnation narrative, a tale of vengeance, an exploration of the dynamics between fans and the industry, and a revealing look at the inner workings of the industry. Its ambition is truly appreciated, even though it seems to be attempting to do too much without too much finesse.

|
MyAnimeList Score |
Genres |
Status |
# of Episodes |
|
7.79 |
Horror |
Completed |
48 |
Sui Ishida is the creator of Tokyo Ghoul, which is his first original piece. The series centers on the theme of ghouls coexisting with Tokyo’s human population, where they are seen as barbarians and the perpetrators of injustice. The news media frequently convey the idea that eradicating all ghouls is necessary to bring about world peace. Because the ghouls are always fighting for their lives, it descends into a society that’s almost dictatorial. Ask Ken Kaneki if you don’t trust these words, for only after confronting the terror of life one day, the little child reveals a sinister truth.

|
MyAnimeList Score |
Genres |
Status |
# of Episodes |
|
8.26 |
Suspense |
Anime - Completed | Manga - Ongoing |
52 |
Kaiji is a gripping psychological thriller that plunges viewers into the high-stakes world of debt, desperation, and deadly games. Created by Nobuyuki Fukumoto, the story follows Kaiji Itō, a down-on-his-luck man forced into extreme gambling scenarios where the cost of failure is often life itself. Known for its intense mind games, nail-biting suspense, and raw portrayal of human nature under pressure, Kaiji stands out as one of the best in the Seinen genre. The series has inspired a two-cour anime series, spin-offs, and even live-action adaptations, including a Chinese film starring Michael Douglas. It’s more than gambling; it’s survival, manipulation, and the thin line between hope and despair.

|
MyAnimeList Score |
Genres |
Status |
# of Episodes |
|
8.43 |
Adventure |
Completed |
49 + 4 OADs |
This is one of the best Seinen anime of all time, but whose only downside is its confusing watch order. It is only when you decide to uncover why it’s on this list would you find out that there is Golden Kamuy, and there is Golden Doga Gekijo. But what’s golden about them both?
They’re both related but distinct parts of the same franchise, with differences in format, content, and purpose. Golden Kamuy is a manga and anime series set in early 20th century Hokkaido, following Saichi Sugimoto, a Russo-Japanese war veteran, and Asirpa, a young Ainu girl on a treasure hunt for Ainu gold. It’s a gritty, action-packed, four-season story that is a blend of adventure, dark humor, and historical drama.
Golden Doga Gekijo on the other hand, is a series of short, comedic, 25-30 second ONAs based on manga omakes (extras). Simply put, this is also a four-season series of humorous, light-hearted moments not covered in the main anime. Together, they give the peak GK experience, one which every anime fan must feel.

|
MyAnimeList Score |
Genres |
Status |
# of Episodes |
|
8.62 |
Comedy | Mystery |
Ongoing |
61 |
From Season 1, Bungo Stray Dogs has topped in many ways, but its fourth and fifth seasons mark a significant step forward for the series, showcasing a well-crafted blend of mystery, strategy and character depth. The battle of wits between Dazai and Fyodor was a clear highlight, offering some of the most engaging moments the anime has delivered so far. Even supporting characters like Ranpo got strong roles, with the villains receiving noticeably thoughtful development.
From story progression to animation quality, Bungo Stray Dogs is one of the few that get better with every new release. While its title gives a somewhat childish vibe, Bungo Stray Dogs isn’t anything like the children’s cartoon Paw Patrol, but rather a mature, stylish series that dives deep into morality, ideology, and human complexity with every arc.

|
MyAnimeList Score |
Genres |
Status |
# of Episodes |
|
8.48 |
Comedy | Superhero |
Ongoing |
24 + 13 OVAs |
The anime adaptation of ONE’s One Punch Man manga is possibly the best comedic superhero anime ever made, as it peaks in comparison with gems like Assassination Classroom. Simply put, it tells the story of bald Saitama, an unknown and unsung hero in Japan, who got so strong that all he needs to eliminate any opponent, irrespective of strength, is one single punch. That may sound rather cliché and boring, right? But you’d be surprised!
One Punch Man makes fun of the Shonen genre by flipping its tropes on their head, turning epic battles into anticlimactic gags and portraying its overpowered hero as a bored, grocery-loving everyman who just wants a worthy fight and discounted sales.

|
MyAnimeList Score |
Genres |
Status |
# of Episodes |
|
8.32 |
Horror | Sci-Fi |
Completed |
24 |
The premise of Parasyte follows classic sci-fi stories of alien creatures snatching human bodies to blend into society and learn about humans. However, while it is also built on the foundation of body horror and science fiction, Kiseijuu’s ability to portray human nature and concentrate on the themes rather than fantastical struggles for existence is what makes it stand out.
It illustrates the extremes of human behavior while also highlighting the nature of parasites between which there is a notable resemblance. Shinichi Izumi, the protagonist who fell victim to a partial parasite infestation experiences significant transformations throughout the narrative, shaped by events that leave him with profound and tragic scars, which manifest in both physical and mental aspects.

|
MyAnimeList Score |
Genres |
Status |
# of Episodes |
|
8.40 |
Comedy | Romance |
Completed |
37 + 4 OVAs |
Kaguya-sama: Love is War is more than just a romcom – it’s a strategic battle of hearts wrapped in top-tier comedy. The first season featured a charming cast, witty mind games between infatuated geniuses, and a style that seemed new despite well-worn cliches. But the second season? It leveled everything up. The jokes hit harder, character development got to an all-time high, and the emotional moments truly resonated. It also features slick animation, killer opening and ending soundtracks, and a sequel that makes the original seem rather insignificant. This anime series is so good that the only appropriate response to anyone dismissing Kaguya-sama would be: “Urusai, baaka!”

|
MyAnimeList Score |
Genres |
Status |
# of Episodes |
|
8.52 |
Comedy | Historical |
Completed |
26 |
Samurai Champloo is a visually stunning series, featuring bold linework that evokes a unique fusion of manga and graffiti aesthetics. One of its episodes takes a brief plunge into the euphoric realm, featuring a vibrant explosion of colorful hallucinations reminiscent of Mind Game — all thanks to Masaaki Yuasa, the talented key animator of the episode. A number of remarkable animators joined the project, resulting in a style that may shift subtly from episode to episode or even scene to scene. Yet, it consistently delights and aligns perfectly with the show's overarching theme. Rural Japan has never appeared so metropolitan, as nearly every scene in Samurai Champloo could effortlessly find its place as a vibrant mural on the wall of a building or beneath an urban overpass.

|
MyAnimeList Score |
Genres |
Status |
# of Episodes |
|
8.77 |
Historical |
Ongoing |
48 |
Vinland Saga is a masterclass in mature storytelling - a true Seinen anime that doesn’t sugarcoat life’s brutal realities. It dives deep into themes of revenge, loss, and the burden of survival, portraying characters shaped by pain, war, and circumstance. Unlike many Shounen stories where effort guarantees reward, Vinland Saga reminds us that life can be cruel and unfair, and often, there’s no glory in suffering, only growth. The animation hits where it counts, the voice acting brings raw emotion, and the characters evolve in ways that feel heartbreakingly real. It’s a gritty, soul-stirring story that leaves a lasting mark.

|
MyAnimeList Score |
Genres |
Status |
# of Episodes |
|
8.89 |
Drama | Psychological |
Completed |
74 |
In a setting that is eerily reminiscent of the real world, Monster unfolds like a nightmarish sport of cat and mouse. Unsettling topics like coercive human training, psychopath psychology, and moral dilemmas are horrifyingly yet captivatingly brought to life. Dr. Tenma, the main character, tries to mend the world that is so regrettably shattered, especially as the cause of a string of nefarious activities is a man whose life he once saved as a child.
Monster is a gripping narrative grounded in reality, distinctly different from the superhuman abilities and mystical elements present in more distant fantasy series. Aside from this, it’s an interesting and great watch.

|
MyAnimeList Score |
Genres |
Status |
# of Episodes |
|
8.60 |
Dark Fantasy |
Completed |
25 |
For what purpose do you live? This is a question Berserk raises, contrasting nihilistic destiny with humanistic free will. On a more personal level, this is the conflict between human misery following divine providence and the aspirations of one's fellow humans. The mysterious demonic energies that lurk in invisible shadows are obscured by the wide green pastures and beautiful skies of this medieval realm of conflict.
Griffith, the charming commander of the infamous mercenary gang Band of the Hawk, risks everything on a destiny he intends to create for himself at any costs. As he shines brighter and brighter, the shadows around him get deeper. In the end, this narrative revolves around those caught in his pursuit—the pursuit of their affections, of his own fate, and of the realm of Midland.
There are many Seinen titles that have been regarded as the best over time, some of which include: Berserk, Monster, Tokyo Ghoul, and Erased.
No anime holds the title of number one, but FMA: Brotherhood and One Piece are often top listers in a lot of categories.
The three frequently mentioned and appraised Seinen top listers include Vagabond, Vinland Saga, and Berserk.
The Seinen demographic encompasses anime targeted at young adults between the ages of 17 and 24, making it the major anime demographic for adults.
Shounen anime are targeted for a younger demographic than Seinen. As such, Seinen anime deal with much darker topics and are more often a lot edgier.
While there are plenty of anime that are based on manga, there is definitely room for original stories. Some anime are based on original material and some are based on mediums other than manga as well.
Berserk was originally made in 1997 and only covered part of the series as it was not complete at that time. Of course, the manga is still ongoing. The 2016 anime is a continuation of the series of Berserk: The Golden Age films.
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