13 Best Mystery Anime Series: Embark on a journey through the world of suspense and intrigue with our curated list of the top 13 mystery anime series. From the dark and psychological to the thrilling and fantastical, these shows promise to keep you on the edge of your seat. Each anime offers a unique blend of storytelling, character depth, and mind-bending mysteries. Whether you’re a seasoned anime fan or new to the genre, this selection is sure to captivate and entertain. Dive into these mesmerizing worlds and discover the art of mystery like never before
1. Monster
Author: Naoki Urasawa
Studio: Madhouse
Genre: Mystery, Psychological Thriller, Crime
About: ‘Monster’ is a gripping tale set in Germany, centered around Dr. Kenzo Tenma, a Japanese surgeon. When Dr. Tenma decides to save a young boy named Johan over a politically important figure, his life takes a dramatic turn. Years later, Johan turns out to be a serial killer, throwing Tenma into a moral and psychological maze.
Why Watch: This anime is a masterful blend of intense psychological drama and moral dilemmas. It challenges the viewer’s perception of good and evil, right and wrong.
Mystery Element: The true nature of Johan, the eponymous “Monster,” is a complex web of psychological intrigue. The series dives deep into themes of identity, the human psyche, and the nature of evil, making it not just a hunt for a killer but a quest to understand the darkest corners of the human mind.
2. Mushishi
Author: Yuki Urushibara
Studio: Artland
Genre: Mystery, Supernatural, Adventure
About: ‘Mushishi’ is a serene, episodic journey through rural Japan, following Ginko, a “Mushi Master.” Mushi are ethereal creatures existing in a realm beyond human perception, influencing the world in mysterious ways. Each episode delves into folklore-inspired stories where Ginko solves problems caused by these enigmatic entities.
Why Watch: The anime stands out for its calm, meditative storytelling and beautiful, atmospheric art. It takes viewers on a philosophical journey exploring the interconnection between nature and humans.
Mystery Element: Each episode presents a new, often bittersweet, mystery involving Mushi. The series excels in its ability to weave tales that are both haunting and deeply humane, exploring the mysteries of life, death, and existence.
3. Odd Taxi
Author: Kazuya Konomoto
Studio: OLM, P.I.C.S.
Genre: Mystery, Psychological
About: This intriguing series revolves around Hiroshi Odokawa, a 41-year-old taxi driver with a dry wit. His ordinary life takes an extraordinary turn when he gets entangled in a missing person’s case. The story unfolds through conversations with his passengers and the intricate web of relationships that connect them.
Why Watch: ‘Odd Taxi’ is unique for its anthropomorphic character design and a narrative that skillfully intertwines various character arcs into a compelling urban mystery.
Mystery Element: The anime is a blend of dark humor and suspense, with a narrative that explores themes of loneliness, social disconnect, and the complex tapestry of urban life. The central mystery is a puzzle that slowly pieces together through each character’s story, leading to a thought-provoking climax.
4. Made In Abyss
Author: Akihito Tsukushi
Studio: Kinema Citrus
Genre: Mystery, Adventure, Dark Fantasy
About: ‘Made In Abyss’ is a captivating tale of Riko, an orphaned girl, and her robotic friend Reg. They embark on a perilous descent into the Abyss, a vast chasm brimming with otherworldly creatures and relics from a long-lost civilization. As they delve deeper, they uncover the Abyss’ dark secrets and their own pasts.
Why Watch: The anime is visually stunning, with a richly imagined world that’s both beautiful and terrifying. It offers a profound exploration of friendship, courage, and the human spirit.
Mystery Element: The Abyss itself is an enigma. Each layer they descend reveals more about the mysterious origins of the Abyss, the nature of the creatures within, and the fate of Riko’s mother. The show masterfully balances the awe of discovery with the terror of the unknown, making it a quintessential mystery adventure.
5. Summertime Render
Author: Yasuki Tanaka
Studio: OLM
Genre: Mystery, Supernatural, Psychological
About: Shinpei Ajiro’s return to his hometown for a funeral quickly turns into a nightmare as he finds himself trapped in a time loop. With each loop, he uncovers more about the town’s supernatural secrets, involving shadows taking the form of humans. The anime blends traditional Japanese folklore with a modern mystery thriller.
Why Watch: It’s an intricate puzzle of time-travel and mystery, with well-developed characters and a compelling narrative.
Mystery Element: The time loop mechanic is used brilliantly to unravel the town’s hidden past and the true nature of the shadows. Each reset adds a piece to the puzzle, with the suspense building up to a dramatic revelation.
6. Ghost In the Shell
Author: Masamune Shirow
Studio: Production I.G
Genre: Mystery, Sci-Fi, Cyberpunk
About: Set in a cyberpunk future, the story follows Major Motoko Kusanagi, a cyborg cop, as she investigates cyber crimes and terrorism. The central plot revolves around her hunt for a mysterious hacker known as the Puppet Master, who poses a significant threat to society.
Why Watch: ‘Ghost in the Shell’ is a seminal work in the sci-fi and cyberpunk genres, offering a deep dive into themes of identity, consciousness, and the nature of humanity in an increasingly digital world.
Mystery Element: The pursuit of the Puppet Master is a thrilling ride through a futuristic landscape. The series skillfully combines action, philosophy, and mystery, making it a thought-provoking exploration of what it means to be human.
7. The Promised Neverland
Author: Kaiu Shirai
Studio: CloverWorks
Genre: Mystery, Thriller, Fantasy
About: The story unfolds in Grace Field House, an orphanage that seems like a paradise for the children who live there. However, the protagonist Emma and her friends soon discover the horrifying truth behind their existence and the outside world. The children must plan their escape while outsmarting their caretaker and the system that seeks to use them.
Why Watch: The series is a compelling mix of suspense, emotional depth, and shocking plot twists. Its exploration of themes like freedom, survival, and the innocence of children makes it a powerful watch.
Mystery Element: The true nature of the orphanage and the outside world forms the core of the mystery. The tension and uncertainty about what lies beyond their sheltered life drive the narrative, making it a heart-pounding experience.
8. Land of the Lustrous
Author: Haruko Ichikawa
Studio: Orange
Genre: Mystery, Fantasy, Action
About: In a strikingly beautiful post-apocalyptic world, sentient gem beings battle against the Lunarians who seek to harvest them for decorations. The story focuses on Phosphophyllite (Phos), a young gem tasked with creating an encyclopedia, who undergoes significant transformations while uncovering the truths of their world.
Why Watch: The anime is visually unique, using 3D CGI to create a stunning, ethereal environment. It’s a profound exploration of identity, change, and the nature of conflict.
Mystery Element: The origins and motivations of the Lunarians, as well as the history of the gem beings, are shrouded in mystery. The series gradually reveals these secrets, alongside Phos’ personal journey of discovery and transformation.
9. Baccano!
Author: Ryohgo Narita
Studio: Brain’s Base
Genre: Mystery, Action, Supernatural
About: Set primarily during the Prohibition era in the United States, ‘Baccano!’ is a stylish anime that intertwines various narratives. The cast includes alchemists, immortals, gangsters, and outlaws, each with their own storylines that gradually intersect and intertwine.
Why Watch: The series is known for its non-linear narrative, dynamic and diverse cast of characters, and exhilarating pace. It’s a wild ride through a stylized version of 1930s America, filled with action, comedy, and supernatural elements.
Mystery Element: The nonlinear storytelling and the interconnected fates of its characters create a complex tapestry of events. The mystery lies in how these disparate narratives connect, revealing a larger, more intricate plot that spans centuries.
10. Psycho-Pass
Author: Gen Urobuchi
Studio: Production I.G
Genre: Mystery, Sci-Fi, Psychological Thriller
About: In a dystopian future where people’s mental states and potential to commit crimes are quantified, ‘Psycho-Pass’ follows the members of the Public Safety Bureau’s Criminal Investigation Division. The story focuses on Akane Tsunemori, a new inspector who confronts the realities of this system.
Why Watch: This anime is a thought-provoking examination of a society governed by a seemingly perfect crime prevention system. It questions the concepts of justice, freedom, and the nature of human behavior.
Mystery Element: The ethical dilemmas and the true nature of the Sibyl System, which governs this society, form the crux of the mystery. The narrative challenges the viewer to ponder the balance between security and freedom, and the moral implications of a system that judges humans based on their psychological state.
11. ERASED
Author: Kei Sanbe
Studio: A-1 Pictures
Genre: Mystery, Psychological Thriller, Supernatural
About: ‘ERASED’ is a captivating anime that revolves around Satoru Fujinuma, a young man with a unique ability to ‘rewind’ time moments before a life-threatening incident occurs. This power thrusts him into the past to prevent tragic events, including a series of kidnappings in his childhood. The story gains intense momentum when Satoru’s mother is mysteriously murdered, triggering a rewind far beyond his control, sending him back 18 years. In his child’s body but with an adult’s mind, Satoru navigates through his past, aiming to change the fate of his classmates, particularly Kayo Hinazuki, and uncover the truth behind the crimes.
Why Watch: ‘ERASED’ stands out for its intricate plot woven with emotional depth. It’s a heart-wrenching journey through time, exploring themes of trauma, hope, and salvation. The series masterfully balances the suspense of a murder mystery with the tender story of childhood and friendship. The character development, especially of Satoru and Kayo, is profound, drawing viewers deeply into their world.
Mystery Element: The core of ‘ERASED’s’ mystery lies in the unknown identity of the kidnapper and murderer. The show excels in building suspense, with each episode unraveling parts of the puzzle. Satoru’s quest to alter the past and the series’ exploration of the butterfly effect create a gripping narrative. Viewers are kept on the edge of their seats, piecing together clues and theorizing potential outcomes. The atmospheric tension, combined with emotional storytelling, makes ‘ERASED’ a standout in the mystery anime genre. Its ability to maintain a delicate balance between thrilling suspense and deep emotional connections makes it a must-watch for fans of the genre.
12. Moriarty the Patriot
Author: Ryōsuke Takeuchi
Studio: Production I.G
Genre: Mystery, Historical, Psychological Thriller
About: ‘Moriarty the Patriot’ offers a unique twist on the classic Sherlock Holmes universe, focusing on James Moriarty, the infamous nemesis of Sherlock Holmes. This anime reimagines Moriarty as an antihero, intent on exposing and dismantling the corrupt aristocracy of Victorian England. With his brilliant mind and cold calculation, Moriarty devises intricate plans to bring about what he sees as a necessary revolution in society. The story not only delves into his conflict with the elite but also sets the stage for his legendary rivalry with Sherlock Holmes.
Why Watch: The anime is a refreshing take on the detective genre, presenting a complex protagonist whose moral ambiguity adds depth to the narrative. The series is rich in historical detail, weaving in social commentary of the period with a modern sensibility. The psychological interplay between characters, especially Moriarty and Holmes, is intellectually stimulating and a treat for fans of strategic mind games.
Mystery Element: ‘Moriarty the Patriot’ excels in its portrayal of the ‘mystery’ of the human psyche. It’s not just about solving crimes but understanding the deeper motivations behind them. The series challenges viewers to ponder the nature of justice and morality. Moriarty’s schemes are elaborate and thought-provoking, often leaving the audience guessing his next move. The show’s ability to blend historical fiction with mystery and psychological elements makes it a unique and intriguing addition to the genre.
13. Great Pretender
Author: Ryota Kosawa
Studio: Wit Studio
Genre: Mystery, Adventure, Comedy
About: ‘Great Pretender’ is a vibrant and fast-paced anime that follows the life of Makoto Edamura, self-proclaimed Japan’s greatest swindler. His life takes a dramatic turn when he attempts to scam a man who turns out to be Laurent Thierry, a much more sophisticated con artist. This encounter catapults Edamura into the thrilling world of international high-stakes scamming, where he participates in elaborate cons targeting corrupt individuals across the globe. The anime is a rollercoaster of twists and turns, showcasing diverse locations and a colorful cast of characters, each with their unique quirks and backgrounds.
Why Watch: The series is a masterclass in storytelling, blending humor, suspense, and emotional depth. The art style is unique and expressive, perfectly capturing the dynamic essence of each setting. ‘Great Pretender’ is more than just a heist story; it’s a journey of self-discovery, redemption, and the complexities of human nature.
Mystery Element: The mystery in ‘Great Pretender’ lies in the intricacy of its cons and the unpredictability of its outcomes. Each arc introduces a new target and a new plan, filled with unexpected developments and clever plot twists. The excitement lies in watching how each con unfolds and how the characters adapt to changing situations. The show keeps viewers guessing about the true intentions of its characters, especially the enigmatic Laurent Thierry. This anime is a must-watch for anyone who loves a good con story mixed with a healthy dose of mystery and adventure.
