15 Best Mystery Anime

With gripping plotlines, challenging puzzles, and mind-blowing narrative twists, the Mystery Anime genre is recognised for its ability to engage viewers. An exciting and intellectually stimulating experience is provided by these top 15 best mystery anime, which keep viewers on the edge of their seats. Each anime on our list offers a distinct fusion of mystery, suspense, and psychological themes, from Death Note’s battle of wits between a skilled investigator and a crafty protagonist to the time-travelling voyage of Erased.

These mystery anime series offer a compelling narrative that keeps viewers wondering right up until the very end, whether it is solving intricate murders in Detective Conan or navigating a labyrinth of paranormal occurrences in Higurashi no Naku Koro ni.

15. Baccano!

• Episodes: 13
• Seasons: 1
• Genre: Action, Comedy, Historical, Supernatural, Mystery

A fascinating and unorthodox animation set in the 1930s, Baccano! weaves together a number of plots and characters in a non-linear narrative. The American-set story centres on a diverse group of characters—including alchemists, criminals, thieves, and immortals—who become enmeshed in a series of erratic occurrences. The fast-paced action, dark humour, and rich storytelling of Baccano! keep viewers interested and guessing all the while. Baccano! offers a thrilling and unpredictable trip that highlights the interconnection of its broad ensemble cast thanks to its distinctive blend of supernatural themes, intricate character interactions, and jazzy music.

14. Rokka no Yuusha (Rokka: Braves of the Six Flowers)

• Episodes: 12
• Seasons: 1
• Genre: Action, Adventure, Fantasy, Mystery

An intriguing new take on the fantasy adventure genre may be found in Rokka no Yuusha. The plot revolves around a prophecy that predicts the coming of six special individuals known as Braves, who would defend the earth from the Demon God. When the time arrives, seven people gather as opposed to the expected six, raising suspicion and creating an exciting mystery. As the Braves try to figure out who the imposter is inside a mysterious barrier, the anime excels at creating tension. Rokka no Yuusha is a unique anime with a thrilling and suspenseful storyline, intricate character development, and captivating action scenes.

13. Paranoia Agent

• Episodes: 13
• Seasons: 1
• Genre: Mystery, Psychological, Supernatural, Thriller

The psychological thriller anime Paranoia Agent explores the darkest corners of the human psyche. The protagonist of the tale is a mysterious attacker known only as “Lil’ Slugger,” who uses a golden baseball bat to strike victims, leaving them with both physical and psychological wounds. The series examines issues of paranoia, identity, and societal constraints as the plot develops. Paranoia Agent explores the darker facets of human nature while challenging viewers’ ideas of reality with its imaginative and thought-provoking storytelling.

12. Gosick

• Episodes: 24
• Seasons: 1
• Genre: Mystery, Drama, Romance, Historical

Gosick is an intriguing mystery anime that takes place in the 1920s and centres on the relationship between Kazuya Kujo, a transfer student at Saint Marguerite Academy, and Victorique de Blois, a clever and mysterious young woman with exceptional deductive abilities. Together, they solve a number of complex puzzles and murders that take place both inside the institution and in the neighbourhood. Gosick weaves together aspects of historical fiction, romance, and detective storytelling to create a gripping story that holds viewers’ attention right up to the very end.

11. Erased (Boku dake ga Inai Machi)

• Episodes: 12
• Seasons: 1
• Genre: Mystery, Psychological, Supernatural, Thriller

Erased is a suspenseful and intense anime that blends themes of mystery, thriller, and the paranormal. The narrative centres on Satoru Fujinuma, a poor manga artist with a special talent known as “Revival.” He has the ability to travel across time and stop catastrophes from happening. When Satoru’s mother is killed, he is transported back in time 18 years, where he must solve a number of connected puzzles in order to save his mother and stop other unfortunate occurrences. With its complex plot, well-rounded characters, and great writing, Erased enthrals viewers. Audiences are kept on the edge of their seats until the very end as it tackles themes of regret, second chances, and the resiliency of the human spirit.

10. The Promised Neverland

• Episodes: 23
• Seasons: 2
• Genre: Mystery, Psychological Thriller, Horror

An exciting and thought-provoking anime experience is provided by The Promised Neverland, which is set in Grace Field House, an apparently lovely orphanage. The plot centres on a group of extraordinarily intelligent kids who learn a terrifying truth about themselves and the real purpose of their serene surroundings. When they realise how real their world is, they set out on a perilous quest to learn the truth and find a way out. The Promised Neverland stands out for its gripping characters, complex story twists, and high level of suspense. It expertly combines aspects of mystery, psychological horror, and survival to create an engaging story that keeps spectators on the edge of their seats.

9. Durarara!!

• Episodes: 60
• Seasons: 3
• Genre: Action, Mystery, Supernatural

The exciting urban fantasy animation Durarara! is situated in Tokyo’s thriving Ikebukuro neighbourhood. The show follows a diverse ensemble cast of eccentric characters as their lives connect in fascinating and surprising ways. Each character has its own secrets and goals. Durarara!! spins a complicated web of mystery, action, and supernatural themes involving anything from headless motorbike riders to information brokers and cunning gangs. The anime is renowned for its complex plotting, enduring characters, and exciting animation. Durarara!! provides a distinct and captivating viewing experience that keeps viewers engaged from beginning to end with its surprise plot twists, complex character interactions, and a hint of the otherworldly.

8. Another

• Episodes: 12
• Seasons: 1
• Genre: Mystery, Horror, Supernatural, Thriller

Another is a terrifying horror anime that is set in the cursed Yomiyama North Middle School, which has been the scene of numerous unexplained fatalities. The narrative follows transfer student Kouichi Sakakibara as he unearths sinister truths about his classmates and the institution. Another is a masterwork of atmospheric suspense that uses ominous imagery, frightening sound effects, and an overarching atmosphere of dread to produce a chilling experience. The anime is noted for its unexpected turns, fast-paced action, and overwhelming sense of impending doom. Another is a must-watch for aficionados of psychological horror and mystery because of its masterfully produced suspense and gruesome mood.

7. Steins;Gate

• Episodes: 24
• Seasons: 1
• Genre: Sci-Fi, Thriller, Mystery

A self-described crazy scientist named Rintarou Okabe and his gang of friends unintentionally learn how to transmit text messages to the past, changing the present, in the science fiction thriller A self-described crazy scientist named Rintarou Okabe and his gang of friends unintentionally learn how to transmit text messages to the past, changing the present, in the science fiction thriller Steins’ Gate. As they explore their newly discovered power, they get entangled in a perilous plot that has the potential to alter the course of human history. Time travel, intrigue, and character-driven drama are all combined in Steins Gate to create an engrossing story that keeps spectators on the edge of their seats. For fans of complex narratives and sci-fi adventures, Steins Gate is a must-watch because of its convoluted plot twists, lovable characters, and good amount of humour.

6. Psycho-Pass

• Episodes: 41
• Seasons: 3
• Genre: Action, Psychological, Sci-Fi, Thriller

In the dystopian cyberpunk anime Psycho-Pass, society is ruled by the Sybil System, a potent instrument that assesses a person’s mental health. Akane Tsunemori, a young detective who joins the Criminal Investigation Division of the Public Safety Bureau, is the focus of the narrative. As she confronts offenders with potentially lethal “Crime Coefficients,” she starts to wonder about the moral implications of the Sybil System and the very concept of justice. A stimulating examination of morality, surveillance, and the human condition is provided by Psycho-Pass. Psycho-Pass offers an exhilarating fusion of action, suspense, and philosophical concepts that will keep viewers reflecting long after the series has ended. It does this with its dark and atmospheric backdrop, fascinating characters, and captivating storyline.

5. Ghost in the Shell: Stand-Alone Complex

• Episodes: 52
• Seasons: 2
• Genre: Action, Military, Sci-Fi, Mystery, Police

A cyberpunk anime called Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex is set in a time when humans and modern technology have coexisted. It centres on the members of Public Security Section 9, a specialised task team that looks into crimes involving computers. The show explores philosophical issues such as identity, awareness, and the social effects of technology. Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone explores complicated concepts while presenting gripping storylines and dramatic visuals. It offers a riveting blend of action, mystery, and reflection. Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex has established itself as a cyberpunk classic thanks to its thought-provoking story, well-rounded characters, and gorgeous animation.

4. Higurashi no Naku Koro ni (When They Cry)

• Episodes: 26
• Seasons: 1
• Genre: Mystery, Horror, Psychological, Supernatural, Thriller

An anime called Higurashi no Naku Koro Ni follows a group of friends in the sleepy village of Hinamizawa. They are caught in a cycle of horrific killings and unsettling riddles as the tranquil façade of the town starts to fall apart. The series tells a truly unnerving and engrossing tale by fusing suspense, supernatural elements, and psychological twists. Higurashi no Naku Koro ni stands out for its dramatic atmosphere, rich character dynamics, and intricate storyline. Fans of psychological thrillers love this anime because it can keep them wondering right up until the very end and on the edge of their seats.

3. Detective Conan (Case Closed)

• Episodes: 465
• Seasons: 15
• Genre: Mystery, Comedy, Police

Long-running detective anime Detective Conan, also known as Case Closed, centres on the exploits of Shinichi Kudo, a brilliant high school detective who turns into a child after being poisoned. He continues to solve puzzling cases under the alias Conan Edogawa while looking for a means to take back his actual form. A wonderful fusion of mystery, crime-solving, and interesting character development can be found in Detective Conan. The series keeps viewers engaged as they attempt to solve the mysteries alongside Conan thanks to its complex and perplexing cases, astute deductions, and a dash of humour. Due to its captivating narrative, endearing characters, and the thrill of piecing together clues to solve intricate cases, it has become incredibly popular.

2. Monster

• Episodes: 74
• Seasons: 1
• Genre: Mystery, psychological drama, thriller

The psychological thriller anime Monster explores the twisted, dark recesses of the human soul. The protagonist of the novel is Dr. Kenzo Tenma, a brilliant neurosurgeon who becomes caught up in a terrifying game of cat and mouse with a serial killer by the name of Johan Liebert. As the story develops, Monster examines morality, identity, and the effects of one’s deeds. Monster captivates viewers from the get-go with its complex and ethically dubious characters, clever story twists, and tense atmosphere. The anime stands out for its provocative examination of the human condition, which confronts ingrained phobias and poses important philosophical issues. Monster is a must-watch for lovers of gloomy psychological thrillers because of its skillful storytelling and pervasive feeling of discomfort.

1. Death Note

• Episodes: 37
• Seasons: 1
• Genre: Mystery, Psychological, Supernatural, Thriller

A compelling and thought-provoking anime called Death Note portrays the intricate intellectual conflict between two intelligent people. Light Yagami is a high school student who finds the Death Note, the enigmatic notebook at the centre of the narrative. Light assumes the role of a self-described “god” and seeks to eradicate crime by possessing the ability to murder anyone whose name is written on it. But the equally bright detective known only as L, who is committed to holding Light accountable, foils his schemes. Death Note is a gripping game of cat and mouse that is full of mental tricks, moral quandaries, and severe psychological combat. Death Note has established itself as a treasured classic that tests viewers’ perceptions of right and wrong with its complex plot, well-rounded cast of characters, and profound exploration of justice and power.

CONCLUSION

The best 15 best mystery anime, which are mentioned above, demonstrate the wide variety and allure of the genre. These anime shows excel in providing gripping narratives, complex plotlines, and interesting characters that keep viewers interested from beginning to end. Each anime offers a distinct blend of tension, mystery, and thought-provoking narrative, ranging from strong psychological thrillers like Monster and Psycho-Pass to otherworldly mysteries like Paranoia Agent and Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex. These top 15 mystery anime offer a gripping and immersive experience that will keep you yearning for more hints and solving perplexing puzzles, regardless of your interest in mind-bending mysteries, detective work, or exploring the depths of the human brain.

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