25 English Dubbed Anime Series with Shocking Violence and Horror - Brace Yourself for These Bloodcurdling Experiences

Disclaimer: Kindly note that the forthcoming content may include explicit descriptions or portrayals that could be unsettling for some readers. It is advised that you exercise caution while reading if you are sensitive to such content. Please be aware that by proceeding to read, you acknowledge and agree to do so at your own risk, having read this cautionary note.

Get ready for a thrilling journey into the world of horror anime. These series will have you on the edge of your seat with bone-chilling creatures and terrifying deaths at every turn. But it's not just about fear and terror. These anime also offer a unique and engaging experience with intricate plotlines and breathtaking animation. Whether you're a die-hard gore fan or just looking for something new to watch, these anime will deliver an unforgettable experience that will send shivers down your spine. Ranked in no particular order, take the plunge into the realm of the most brutal and horrific English dubbed anime and prepare for a world of darkness and terror where anything can happen.

1. Devilman Crybaby - The Demon-infested Apocalypse

Chosen as Fandom's best anime of 2018, Netflix's Devilman Crybaby is a Netflix original anime that has one the hearts of anime fans — including mine — for its brutal, intense, and disturbing scenes. The story follows Akira Fudo, a kind-hearted teenager who merges with a demon named Amon and becomes Devilman, a hybrid of both human and demon. The show is packed with graphic violence, nudity, and bloodshed, making it an excellent choice for fans of violent anime.

Why you should watch: Devilman Crybaby is a masterpiece in its own right, with its unique storytelling and complex characters. It's not just about the gore and bloodshed but also deals with deeper themes such as friendship, love, and betrayal.

2. Puella Magi Madoka Magica - A Magical Girl's Tragic Tale

Puella Magi Madoka Magica put the Magical Girl genre on its head, and we are here for every gruesome detail. The series follows Madoka Kaname, a middle school student offered a chance to become a magical girl and fight witches. The anime features brutal fight scenes, unexpected plot twists, and gut-wrenching moments that will make you question the genre.

Why you should watch: Puella Magi Madoka Magica is not your typical magical girl anime. It subverts the genre's expectations and delivers a unique, tragic, and thought-provoking story.

3. Tokyo Ghoul - A World of Flesh and Bone

Get ready for a wild ride through a world where humans and flesh-eating ghouls coexist! Tokyo Ghoul chronicles Ken Kaneki's transformation into a half-ghoul, and the thrilling journey that follows. With heart-pumping fight scenes, blood-curdling moments, and a multi-layered plot that will keep you on the edge of your seat, this anime is a must-watch!

Why you should watch: Tokyo Ghoul is a well-written anime that tackles themes such as identity, morality, and humanity. It's not just about the violence but also explores the psychological effects of being a half-ghoul.

4. Genocyber - A Cybernetic Horror Show

Want more brutal anime to watch? What about a twisted and dark tale that blends technology and horror. The OVA follows the story of two sisters, Elaine and Diana, who were involved in a genetic engineering experiment that resulted in them possessing superhuman abilities. The sisters were separated, and as they reunite, they become the center of a deadly conspiracy involving the government, corporations, and military.

Why you should watch: Genocyber is a unique and thrilling anime that combines cyberpunk, horror, and action into five episodes. The tale is gripping and keeps you hooked from beginning to end, and the violence and gore are not for the faint of heart. The anime is why I have a disclaimer at the beginning.

5. Shigurui: Death Frenzy - A Bloody Samurai Epic

Japanese samurai were notorious for their brutal and gory fighting style, often employing gruesome techniques such as decapitation and disembowelment to strike fear into their enemies. And Shigurui: Death Frenzy delivers just that with its tale of two warriors pitted against each other in a deadly duel. Taking place at the beginning of 17th century Japan, the series follows the rivalry between Fujiki Gennosuke and Irako Seigen, two skilled swordsmen who seek to become the ultimate samurai. During the twelve episodes, you'll witness a story of violence, gruesome deaths, intertwining fates, and how each man became who they are today.

Why you should watch: Shigurui: Death Frenzy is a beautifully crafted anime that captures the brutal and unforgiving nature of samurai duels. The fight scenes are incredibly well-choreographed, and the sound effects are visceral, making each strike feel impactful and deadly. The characters are complex and well-developed, with their motivations and desires driving the plot forward. The series doesn't shy away from showing the consequences of violence and the toll it takes on those who engage in it. Shigurui: Death Frenzy is a must-watch for fans of samurai and action anime.

Like what you see? Then check out my Pinterest where I upload cool videos and more content

6. Chainsaw Man - A Fresh and Brutal Take on Shonen Anime

Chainsaw Man is a relatively new anime that has taken the anime community by storm. It's a shonen anime that follows the story of Denji, a young man who merges with his pet devil dog Pochita to become a powerful demon hunter. The series is known for its over-the-top action sequences, brutal fight scenes, and unique and quirky characters.

Why you should watch: Chainsaw Man brings a refreshing take to the shonen anime genre, breaking away from the typical tropes that often plague the genre. Unlike conventional shonen stories, Chainsaw Man doesn't rely on the cliches of the hero always winning or the power of friendship, instead providing flawed and complex characters whose motivations and desires propel the plot forward.

The action scenes are not only visually stunning but also intricately choreographed, with each character's unique abilities and strengths playing an important role in the fights. Chainsaw Man is an absolute must-see for shonen anime enthusiasts seeking a fresh and exhilarating viewing experience.

7. King's Game - Survive or Die: A Thrilling Game of Deadly Consequences

King's Game is a suspenseful and thrilling anime series that revolves around a class of high school students who receive a mysterious text message inviting them to participate in a deadly game. The game's rules are simple: follow the King's orders, or face the consequences. What follows is a gruesome and bloodcurdling game of survival, where the students must fight to stay alive.

Why you should watch: Get ready for a wild ride! The plot twists and turns in ways you never see coming, keeping you on the edge of your seat from start to finish. The characters are so well-crafted, you'll feel like you know them personally. And just when you think you have it all figured out, there's another heart-pounding cliffhanger that leaves you dying to know what happens next! If you're looking for a show that'll keep you guessing and leave you breathless, King's Game is a must-watch.

8. Jujutsu Kaisen - The Battle Between Curses and Sorcerers

This anime was all the rage in 2022 and continues to be in many anime forums. Jujutsu Kaisen follows high schooler Yuji Itadori who becomes a Jujutsu Sorcerer. Yuji's fate takes a dark turn as he's thrust into the world of cursed spirits. It's a perilous path where only curses can defeat curses. The show is full of suspense, action, and gore, with some of the most thrilling and intense fight scenes in anime history.

Why you should watch: If you're a fan of horror anime, you can't miss Jujutsu Kaisen. It's the perfect blend of horror, action, and comedy, with a unique take on the world of curses and exorcism. What sets it apart from other shonen franchises is its intense and gruesome imagery that truly captures the fear and horror of its supernatural world.

9. Tokkou - Experience the Dark World of Demons and Goree

Prepare to be horrified by the chilling world of Tokkou, an anime series that delves into the dark and twisted world of demon hunting. Follow Shindou Ranmaru as he faces unspeakable horrors in his role as a member of a secret police organization, all while grappling with his own inner demons. With its graphic violence and bone-chilling moments, Tokkou is an unforgettable horror experience that no anime fan should miss.

Why you should watch: The blend of action and horror is masterfully balanced, immersing you in a world of demon hunting that's as thrilling as it is terrifying. The characters are brought to life with each demon they face. The amount of brutal, eye-bulging fights will make you a fan of this early 2000s horror anime classic.

10. Housing Complex C - The Cursed Apartment Building

If you loved Garden of Sinner's Paradox Spiral, Housing Complex C is a must-watch. The miniseries centers around an apartment building cursed by a vengeful ghost. The show is full of suspense and mystery as the residents of the building try to uncover the secrets behind the supernatural occurrences around them. Each episode follows a different character, exploring their backstory and relationship with the ghost, making for an engaging and unique viewing experience.

Why you should watch: Housing Complex C is a hidden gem that deserves more recognition. It's a well-crafted horror anime that creates an eerie atmosphere and delivers genuine scares. The storytelling is excellent, and the characters are all compelling, with their own motivations and secrets.

11. Attack on Titan - A Dystopian World of Giant Humanoids

If you haven't heard about Attack on Titan, then where have you been in the past decade? Attack on Titan is on every horror anime fan's list for its biting approach to suspense and mystery. Set in a dystopian world where humanity lives behind walls to protect themselves from giant humanoid creatures known as Titans, the show follows the story of Eren Yeager and his friends as they join the military to fight against the Titans.

Why you should watch: Attack on Titan is an adrenaline-pumping rollercoaster ride of epic proportions, combining heart-pounding action with nail-biting suspense to deliver a truly unforgettable anime experience. The characters are richly developed, each with their own unique strengths and weaknesses that are put to the test in the face of a relentless enemy. With breathtaking animation that brings the Titans to life in all their terrifying glory, this is one horror anime that you simply can't afford to miss.

12. Wicked City - A Dark and Erotic Tale of Demons and Humans

Wicked City delves deep into the realm of horror, the supernatural, and desire. The movie follows the story of Taki Renzaburō, a skilled member of the Black Guard, a secret organization tasked with maintaining peace and order between the human world and the demon realm. As Taki embarks on his dangerous mission, he is thrust into a world of gruesome violence, bloodshed, and unimaginable terror.

Why you should watch: The movie is known for its graphic depiction of violence and eroticism, which, back then — 1987 — set a new standard for horror anime. From the shocking visuals to the intense action scenes, Wicked City is a must-watch for anyone seeking a thrilling 😉 and chilling ride into the dark and twisted world of horror anime.

13. Baki - The Most Brutal Martial Arts Showdown

Baki Hanma is a young warrior with a singular goal in mind: surpassing his father, Yujiro Hanma, who reigns as the world's strongest fighter. But when five of the most ruthless and dangerous death row inmates come knocking at his door, Baki's strength is put to the ultimate test. These inmates are tired of the world and everything in it, seeking out the young warrior in a bid to feel the crushing embrace of defeat. Yet, Baki is not alone in his struggle. The most talented underground martial arts warriors — including Kaoru Hanayama, Gouki Shibukawa, Retsu Kaioh, and Doppo Orochi — have gathered around him, determined to lend their strength in this epic battle of brawn and brutality.

Why you should watch: Netflix's Baki features intense fights, over-the-top violence, and plenty of bloodshed. With its depiction of martial arts combat, the show will keep you on the edge of your seat as you witness the brutal fights between some of the deadliest fighters from around the world.

14. Lily C.A.T. - A Sci-Fi Horror Thriller

Are you a fan of sci-fi horror anime? If so, you won't want to miss out on Lily C.A.T.! This thrilling OVA follows the crew of the Saldes, a spacecraft on a mission to colonize a new planet. But things start to take a dark turn as strange and horrifying events begin to unfold. Suddenly, the crew finds themselves suspecting that there is a traitor among them, adding an extra layer of tension and suspense. With an epic climax that will leave you on the edge of your seat, Lily C.A.T. is a must-watch for any sci-fi or horror fan.

Why you should watch: The intergalactic horror is an unexpected thrill ride that will make you constantly question: what's going on and yell at your screen.

15. Angel Cop - A Tale of Terrorism and Espionage

Looking for an adrenaline rush? Then Angel Cop is the horror anime to watch. The six-episode series features gritty storytelling and brutal action scenes that will make your jaw drop. Set in a futuristic version of Tokyo, follow a special anti-terrorist force as they work to stop a dangerous group of terrorists from destabilizing the city. But as they uncover a shocking conspiracy that involves the US and Japanese governments and a secret society with plans for world domination, the stakes get even higher. Don't miss out on this heart-pumping anime classic!

Why you should watch: Angel Cop is a thrilling ride from start to finish, with its fast-paced action scenes and intense storyline. The show also has a complex and morally ambiguous cast of characters, making it a fascinating exploration of the human psyche.

16. Shadows House - Lolita Horror House

Shadows House is a unique horror anime that takes place in a mysterious mansion inhabited by living dolls. The story follows a young girl named Emilico, who serves as a living doll for the Shadow family. Emilico's role is to mimic the actions of her master, Kate Shadow, and to serve as her companion. As Emilico begins to unravel the secrets of the mansion and its inhabitants, she discovers that there's more to the Shadow family than meets the eye.

Why you should watch: While it doesn't deliver much in the brutal factor, it does give a healthy dose of suspense. Shadows House masterfully blends cute and creepy visuals with stunning attention to detail in sound and setting. The world-building is absolutely top-notch, and the characters are all fascinating and fully-realized. With a gothic atmosphere and tantalizing mysteries surrounding the mansion, you won't want to miss a single moment of this heart-pounding and suspenseful watch.

17. MD Geist - The Ultimate Killing Machine

Enter the gritty post-apocalyptic world of MD Geist, a ruthless mercenary tasked with eliminating a rogue military force that has taken over an abandoned city. Armed with exceptional strength and combat skills, MD Geist embarks on a deadly mission, leaving a trail of carnage and destruction. Are you ready to witness the blood-soaked battles and intense action of this anime classic?

Why you should watch: MD Geist is a true classic of the gore anime genre, with its over-the-top violence and cheesy dialogue. The movie's retro aesthetic and iconic character design also add to its appeal, making it a must-watch for fans of old-school anime.

18. Tokyo Revelation - The End of the World

Enter the mystical world of Tokyo Revelation. The story starts with Akito Kobayashi, who harbors a fascination for the supernatural. He has devoted his life to studying the occult, and his latest breakthrough has him on the brink of unleashing a terrifying force upon the world. He has gained the power to control demons using his computer and the mysterious essence of human life known as magnetite.

But standing in his way is an old friend, Kojiro Soma. Kojiro possesses a rare ability that might be the key to thwarting Akito's sinister plans. Can he find the strength to confront his former ally and save humanity from certain doom? The stakes have never been higher, and the fate of the world hangs in the balance.

Why you should watch: The blend of horror and supernatural elements creates a sense of suspense and unease that will keep you on the edge of your seat. The anime explores various themes, such as morality, power, and the consequences of one's actions.

19. Elfen Lied - A Puppy's Passing That Led to This Mess

Where should I start when it comes to Elfen Lied — German for song of the elves — is another entry why I have a disclaimer. The story follows a species called Diclonius, who possess supernatural powers and are hunted by humans. The show is infamous for its graphic violence and nudity, making it one of the goriest anime series of all time — and my personal favorite.

Why you should watch: With its graphic violence, intense emotions, and complex characters, Elfen Lied tells a haunting story that will stay with you long after the series ends. The anime explores themes of identity, discrimination, and the consequences of human arrogance in a world where humans and Diclonius coexist. If you are looking for an anime that will challenge your emotions and leave a lasting impact, Elfen Lied is the perfect choice.

20. Gantz - The Ultimate Game of Life and Death

If you're an anime fan, you've probably wondered what it would be like to be iseakai'd to your favorite video game, but after watching Gantz, you'll be rethinking that wish. The sci-fi horror anime takes the concept of life and death to a whole new level. The story follows a group of people who are transported to a game where they must hunt down and kill aliens to earn points. The show is brutal, intense, and full of gore.

Why you should watch: The show explores deep moral questions and psychological trauma, making it an intense and thrilling viewing experience.

21. Higurashi: When They Cry - The Sound of Cicadas

Another personal favorite — which the second season hasn't been dubbed 😔— Higurashi: When They Cry is a psychological horror anime that follows a group of friends involved in a series of mysterious and gruesome murders in their village. The show is famous for its nonlinear storytelling and the use of the same scenarios in different arcs, creating a unique and captivating viewing experience.

Why you should watch: Higurashi: When They Cry is a masterful work of suspense and horror. The storytelling is complex and engaging, and the characters are intriguing and multi-dimensional. The show also has a fantastic soundtrack that enhances the overall atmosphere. Whenever I hear the cicadas in the summertime, I'm reminded of a little girl with a giant knife.

22. Terra Formars - Squash Those Roaches

Terra Formars is a sci-fi horror anime that takes place in the 26th century when humanity is on a mission to terraform Mars. However, they soon discover that the planet is already inhabited by giant humanoid cockroaches. The show is action-packed, violent, and full of gore.

Why you should watch: The show has an interesting set of characters — that you shouldn't get attached to — and explores themes of humanity, identity, and ethics. On top of that, the high-octane and adrenaline-fueled scenes are gore galore.

23. High-Rise Invasion - A Battle for Survival in a World of Skyscrapers

High-Rise Invasion is a thrilling horror anime that takes place in a world where people are forced to battle each other on top of skyscrapers. The series follows a high school student named Yuri Honjo as she finds herself trapped in a strange and terrifying world, high above the ground on top of a series of interconnected skyscrapers. To make matters worse, she's surrounded by masked killers who are hunting her and anyone else they come across.

Why you should watch: It's an intense, non-stop roller coaster of action, suspense, blood, and gore. Every turn the protagonist takes, you wonder if there'll be someone ready to butcher her into pieces. Talk about heart-pumping edge-of-your-seat anime.

24. Blue Gender - A Post-Apocalyptic Future Battling Giant Bugs

Another 90s horror anime with jaw-dropping, brutal elements hits our list with Blue Gender. Far into the post-apocalyptic future where giant insects called "Blue" have overrun the earth. Yuji Kaido awakens from cryogenic sleep to find himself in the midst of this nightmare. Yuji joins a team of soldiers fighting against the Blue, but as the war rages on, he discovers that the true enemy may be closer than he thinks.

Why you should watch: Blue Gender is a gritty and intense anime that features action and horror elements in twenty-six episodes. The world-building is attention-grabbing, and the story is full of twists and turns that keep you guessing until the very end.

25. Another - A School of Horror and Death

Another is the equivalent of Final Destination, and like the movie, the anime will make you second-guess your decision to enroll in a high school. The story follows Koichi Sakakibara, a student who returns to school after a lengthy sick leave. But his school days are nothing like he imagined. Instead, he discovers a horrifying secret about his new school. The anime features gruesome deaths, an eerie atmosphere, and psychological horror elements that will keep you on the edge of your seat.

Why you should watch: Another is a well-executed horror anime that precisely delivers its scares. The characters are well-written, and the plot is compelling enough to keep you engaged throughout the entire series.

Related Posts

Disclosure: Some of the links in this post are Amazon affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission if you make a purchase through them.