As everything and everything is conceivable in the world of anime, it has amassed a sizable fan base throughout the years. You may anticipate some fascinating stories when you introduce a genre like crime to such a setting. Some might possess strange abilities, such as the capacity to instantly kill somebody by writing their name on a piece of paper. In either case, the mystery, suspense, and tension in these series can draw viewers in.
Due to their frequent incorporation of various genres, such as sci-fi, criminal animes may not be able to stand alone as solely crime series. Also, because they target a more mature audience, these animes might not be suggested for children. Because of their complexity and depth, some of the animes previously listed call for a more knowledgeable audience. Because they were able to provide something fresh and different, the following list of criminal animes has been suggested by its audience, further enhancing the crime genre.
Box of Spirits and Goblins
This anime, also known as Mouryou no Hako, is an underappreciated series that is perfect for anyone looking for a gripping mystery thriller. The narrative opens with Kanako Yuzuki being struck by a train in an accident. She abruptly vanishes during therapy. Nevertheless, as the police look into this, they learn there’s more to the mystery and make additional horrifying discoveries, including schoolgirls’ limbs in boxes. You could be enticed to open up this “box” of riddles just by reading this summary.
Bungou Stray Dogs
The story centres on a group of unusual people with supernatural abilities who work for a company called the Armed Detective Agency. Atsushi Nakajima is the primary character because the anime begins with him being hired by the agency. The series then centres on how these people solve murders and mysteries, some of which are otherworldly. The organisation frequently opposes Port Mafia, its rivals.
The origins and personalities of the characters give them fairly distinct personalities, which in turn captures the idea of individualism and the subjective nature of humans. The series can address the subject of corruption since it is centred on large institutions, which gives it a more realistic feel. The anime’s soundtracks, which combine humour and darkness, and favourable reviews are the main factors in this.
Death Note
Death Note, an anime that challenges your moral compass, opens with Light Yagami utilising the death note to execute criminals. The plot of the series changes, though, when Light develops a power complex and reveals his narcissistic tendencies, which enable him to use the death of anybody close to him for his own gain. There are numerous story twists in this anime, and justice is perfectly served in the conclusion.
Another aspect of this anime’s appeal is the character of L. He seems like the real “hero” while being weird. The intriguing plot of Death Note is made possible by the possibility that his untimely demise will leave the audience without hope.
Detective Conan / Case Closed
Case Closed, often known as Detective Conan, is an anime that has been airing since 1996 that centres on a brilliant detective who was transformed into a young child. This series would be a perfect addition for Sherlock Holmes fans since the lead character is a fan of the illustrious detective and employs this method of problem-solving. Unlike most mystery and crime series, each plot is distinct, and it might be challenging to figure out whodunit.
The rivalry between the main characters and the Black organisation intensifies the conflict and the events. A subtle love tale and technologically advanced gadgets have been included as new components to the narrative. We do not suggest binge-watching this anime because it is a lengthy series that is currently being produced. Nevertheless, it is the ideal one for escaping from reality.
Erased
Erased has received favourable reviews precisely because it has a protagonist who captures the attention of the audience from the very first scene. The narrative opens in 2006 and centres on Satoru, a 29-year-old with the power of “revival,” which allows him to travel back in time just before an incident so that he can stop it.
That is, until his mother’s passing, at which point he is transported back to 1988. The horrific narrative of Erased, which centres on a serial killer who preys on young children, soon begins to take shape. The anime uses the inclusion of a character (Kayo) who experiences abuse and bullying at both home and school as a platform to explore other crucial issues.
Great Pretender
Netflix Great Pretender may have characters from well-known archetypes like the conventional heroes who ultimately get their way and the ideal mentor, but the show manages to go a step further by giving the characters greater depth through fascinating backstories. It follows a Robin Hood-style plot in which the main characters con wealthy individuals. It is made more distinctive by the diversity of the characters and the fact that the story is not specifically set in Japan.
This is also the reason the show may have been able to appeal to a broad fan base. Excellent Pretender can take the form of a chill viewing thanks to the humour included. Also, if you are easily captivated by aesthetics, this is a MUST-WATCH since it appears to be an amalgam of anime and images similar to Totally Spies.
Hyouka
In comparison to the animes so far listed, Hyouka is very different. Instead of involving serial killers or horrifying killings, this mystery asks both the protagonists and the audience to think a little bit more deeply. With some straightforward crimes like robbery, it is a serene slice-of-life animation. Particularly considering Houtarou, the protagonist, is incredibly indolent, the main characters are quite relatable. Even if the anime may have a sluggish beginning, after a few episodes you can find yourself drawn to it. The fact that Hyouka takes place in a school setting gives the anime a more high school feel. Hence, it is undoubtedly a wonderful change of pace from the typical crime animes. The stunning graphics are an added treat.
ID: Invaded
ID: Invaded is a psychologically-themed anime that follows a team of detectives as they attempt to apprehend serial killers. It differs from the typical detectives finding serial killers plot, though. The detectives in ID: Invaded have the power to delve into serial killers’ “id wells,” or subconscious minds. This series may prove to be quite instructive and fascinating for people who are familiar with Sigmund Freud’s “Iceberg Theory,” in which he discusses a person’s id, which is the unconscious mind. The episodes can take new turns because the serial killers’ minds are present. Also, the addition of gore and terror raises the mystery.
Monster
Monster tops the list with an 8.7/10 rating on IMDb due to the anime’s suspenseful plot, which is one of the most important determining factors in a crime series. The narrative follows Tenma as he gives a boy life in accordance with his belief in the equality of all life. That is, until he discovers the youngster he spared is a monster years later.
This anime poses “difficult concerns about morality, fate, and justice,” as Peter Tieryas notes. In fact, Monster can cause you to reflect on your own moral values and make you reconsider your actions moving forward. This anime is fantastic to watch for any aficionados of the criminal genre because of its impact on its viewers, stunning visuals, and complex characters.
Moriarty the Patriot
This anime takes the Sherlock Holmes universe and flips it such that the story is presented by Holmes’ adversary, Moriarty, as suggested by the title. Moriarty is different in that he commits crimes for the benefit of society. The 19th century, when the British Empire is booming and class separation is on the horizon, is the setting for the television series. Williams Moriarty, the main character in this universe, is one of Albert Moriarty’s two adoptive brothers and the lone member of the Moriarty family.
Williams’ arch-enemy still remains Sherlock, despite the fact that they have a quiet camaraderie born of mutual respect. The series becomes even more nostalgic as a result of the appearance of other characters from the first Sherlock Holmes universe, but it also adopts a novel viewpoint by sort of making Moriarty a hero.
Psycho Pass
Returning to a more cerebral and binge-worthy criminal anime, Psycho Pass is set in a bleak future Japan and explores the study of philosophy. The show raises ethical issues and prompts viewers to consider how society uses technology. This anime creates a universe where there is a system that determines if a person is fit to be placed into society (not a future criminal) or not using utilitarian notions.
The plot of Psycho Pass is driven by the Sibyl System. Because of this, it’s intriguing to watch how this criminal anime takes the spectator on a deeper journey by depicting a more predictable universe. The real question is whether we can use technology to build a society without crime. Is it moral?
Rainbow: Nisha Rokubō no Shichinin
Rainbow is mentioned in the title, but do not let that fool you—this anime is Absolutely NOT geared for children. The series frequently contains horrific imagery, and for good reason. The goal of Rainbow: Nisha Rokub no Shichinin is to expose the harsh reality of what life may be. The programme, which is set in the 1950s, centres on seven youngsters who are mistreated by two primary villains while being imprisoned-like in a reform system.
The show focuses on the difficulties these kids face and how, despite these challenges, they develop both socially and personally. This anime will put you through the ringer and has incredible character arcs, so it’s not for the weak of heart.
Steins; Gate
Steins; Gate, another another time-traveling anime, is one that might interest sci-fi and crime enthusiasts seeking for a somewhat intricate plot line. The protagonist, Okabe, is one of many reasons why this specific anime has garnered positive reviews. He is highly endearing to the spectator because of his interactions with other characters and his evolving character arc.
Although it may not be usual to employ the “mad scientist” cliche on a protagonist, Steins; Gate has gone above and beyond to make sure that Okabe, along with his pals and love interest, are adequately developed so that they are not constrained to ordinary tropes. The villains of SERN, a group trying to obtain the time machine, also provide a criminal element to the plot, which makes it more complex.
The Millionaire Detective Balance: Unlimited
This might be the perfect movie if you’re seeking for a criminal anime with more action and surprising surprises. The protagonist, Daisuke Kambe, hails from an incredibly affluent family, as the title suggests, therefore he and his companion, Haru Kato, are able to make up for whatever harm they cause while battling crime. Without the superpowers, he might resemble an anime version of Bruce Wayne or Tony Stark.
The characters in The Millionaire Detective Balance: Infinite, however, are much more than that. In actuality, the anime demonstrates that although if the protagonist seems unfriendly, there is actually a very excellent reason for it. Also, these characters have a compassionate side. This anime will keep you on the edge of your seat as relationships are put to the test and many unexpected events occur.
Un-Go
This anime is set in a dystopian future Japan that is transitioning out of World War II. Although though Un-Go gets off to a slow start, the anime makes an effort to keep viewers interested by focusing on Shinjuurou, who appears to be losing the battle to Rinroku. Even if Shinjuurou doesn’t succeed in the public light, he is a detective who is hell-bent on finding the truth.
He is more grounded in reality because of his shortcomings. Then there is his partner Inga, who has always been shrouded in mystery and secrecy. These two work together to produce Un-Go a fantastic criminal anime, along with the technologically infused mysteries.
