Animecovers dozens of genres, with each genre having its own subgenres.

Among all the anime out there, you’re free to find one that fits any mood.

Feeling like laughing nonstop?

A spit image showing Makima, Tohru, and Erina.

Anime has got you covered.

Looking to cry your eyes out?

Tons of anime fit the bill.

A collage of Grave of the Fireflies, Violet Evergarden and Kotaro Lives Alone.

If you are looking to get a bit more serious, there are options for you.

Unexpected monsters, unforgettable moments!

In this list, we’ll take a look at some of the best serious anime out there.

A split image showing three episodic anime series'.

While the tone can be light at times, they definitely lean more into the drama aspect.

These are presented in no particular order.

Make no mistake; this show is serious, intense, and at times, incredibly stressful to watch.

A split image showing characters from Ergo Proxy, Terror in Resonance, and Vinland Saga.

8Vinland Saga

Are you a fan of historical dramas?

If so, then Vinland Saga is the perfect show for you.

The overall tone of the show is serious and, honestly, quite bleak at times.

Meruem from Hunter x Hunter, Gaara from Naruto and Nina from Full Metal Alchemist - Brotherhood.

If Vikings, drama, and the Middle Ages interest you, then Vinland Saga is definitely worth watching.

You may even forget that you are watching an anime while binging it!

On top of this, the animation and music are phenomenal.

His choice comes with consequences, which ultimately ends up affecting him for the rest of the show.

There are a lot of dere types out there, but which one matches your Zodiac sign the best?

The story is complex, filled with unique characters and real-world issues that add a sense of realism.

5Psycho-Pass

Psycho-Pass is another anime original, though you might find manga based on the show.

If you’re a fan of the movie Minority Report, then Psycho-Pass is right up your alley.

In this show, even thinking about a crime makes you guilty.

This show takes place in Toyko, where rumors of a skating boy with a golden bat are circling.

Not all Satoshi Kon films are serious, such as Tokyo Godfathers.

Still, they are all definitely worth watching.

As with other Satoshi Kon works, Paranoia Agent doesn’t rely on anime tropes or over-the-top character designs.

Paranoia Agent maintains a serious tone while dealing with something as bizarre as a boy with a golden bat.

3The Promised Neverland

The Promised Neverland made waves when the anime first came out in 2019.

Still, the first season holds up as amazing.

To get the full story, we highly suggest reading the manga.

2Serial Experiments Lain

Serial Experiments Lain is a weird anime.

If you have prior interest in this show, we suggest just diving in without knowing much.

1Ergo Proxy

Last but not least, we have Ergo Proxy.

This is a cyberpunk anime that has a grunge, moody, and dystopian vibe.

This is where our main character comes in, as she works as an inspector.

Can’t commit to a story-heavy show with long arcs?

Here are some of the best episodic anime to watch now!