Top 12 Ranked Anime and Manga Featuring Exorcists

Insightful Highlights

Exorcist-themed manga and anime deliver engaging narratives that captivate a diverse audience.
Many exorcist tales infuse elements of comedy and absurdity, offering a refreshing alternative to traditional horror.
Recurring themes include fierce battles, spiritual dimensions, and a rich blend of Western and Shinto mythologies.

Rooted in Japan’s rich spiritual culture, demons, ghosts, and exorcists populate an array of popular media, particularly manga and anime. Writers often draw inspiration from Western religious practices, intertwining them with local Shinto traditions and folklore. This fusion creates vibrant settings, allowing for the emergence of captivating and entertaining narratives.

The enduring popularity of exorcist-themed manga and anime can be attributed to their propensity for intense storytelling and dynamic fight scenes. The blend of supernatural and horror elements contributes to their widespread appeal, making these stories a staple in the anime and manga community.

12 Bad Girl Exorcist Reina

A Humorous Take on Ghostly Encounters

MyAnimeList Score: 7.42
Chapters: 78
Published: 2018 to 2021
Genres/Theme: Comedy, Supernatural, School
Author: OTOSAMA
Illustrator: OTOSAMA

While exorcisms typically invoke images of horror, Bad Girl Exorcist Reina subverts expectations with its comedic flair. Rather than focusing on fear, this manga humorously presents the absurdity of ghostly phenomena. The protagonist, Reina, known for her delinquent behavior, uses her unorthodox methods to confront spirits, demonstrating that sometimes, a little tough love is all it takes.

11 Ultimate Exorcist Kiyoshi

A Charming New Adventure Featuring Kiyoshi

MyAnimeList Score: 7.01
Published: Jun 24, 2024 to Present
Genres/Theme: Action, Comedy, Supernatural, Gag Humor
Author : Shouichi Usui
Illustrator: Shouichi Usui

Even with a short publication history, Ultimate Exorcist Kiyoshi captivates readers with its engaging storyline. It follows Kiyoshi Harai, a shy prodigy who recently graduated as valedictorian from Exorcist Academy. Despite his remarkable abilities, Kiyoshi struggles with confidence, creating a relatable narrative that emphasizes personal growth and humor over typical shōnen tropes.

10 Twin Star Exorcists

A Dynamic Duo Facing Supernatural Foes

MyAnimeList Score: 7.87
Published: 2013 to 2024
Genres/Theme: Action, Fantasy, Mythology
Author : Yoshiaki Sukeno
Illustrator : Yoshiaki Sukeno

The title Twin Star Exorcists reflects its core narrative, showcasing the journey of two exorcists, Rokuro and Benio, who navigate their complex pasts while destined to become powerful allies. The story not only emphasizes epic battles against evil spirits but also delves into character development and emotional healing, striking a balance between action and introspective moments.

9 Make The Exorcist Fall In Love

A Romantic Twist on Exorcism

MyAnimeList Score: 7.67
Published: 2021 to Present
Genres/Theme: Action, Fantasy, Romance, Mythology
Author : Aruma Arima
Illustrator : Masuku Fukayama

Incorporating Western religious themes, Make The Exorcist Fall In Love follows a protagonist molded by the church, who grapples with his duty to battle evil while yearning to understand love. This narrative challenges typical masculine tropes within shōnen manga, inviting readers to explore deeper emotional landscapes and personal aspirations beyond vengeance.

8. Kekkaishi

A Unique Approach to Exorcism

MyAnimeList Score: 7.59
Episodes: 52
Aired: 2006 to 2008
Studios: Sunrise
Genres/Theme: Action, Adventure, Supernatural, Mythology

Kekkaishi introduces readers to the realm of Ayakashi, supernatural creatures managed by skilled Kekkaishi warriors. The story centers around Sumimura Yoshimori, charged with protecting his school from these entities that draw power from the land. This series cleverly intertwines magical and supernatural elements, creating a narrative rich in cultural lore.

7 D. Gray-Man

A Classic of the 2000s

MyAnimeList Score: 8.00
Episodes: 103
Aired: 2006 to 2008
Studios: TMS Entertainment
Genres/Theme: Action, Adventure, Fantasy, Mythology, Super Power

D. Gray-Man presents a unique narrative in which demons are born from human pain, forging akuma that embody lost souls. The protagonist, Allen Walker, uses “Innocence,”a potent weapon to combat these creatures. Though its pacing can be uneven, the series remains a hallmark of the 2000s, celebrated for its captivating story and engrossing action sequences.

6 The Morose Mononokean

An Endearing Tale of Supernatural Helpers

Haruitsuki and Hanae from The Morose Mononokean

MyAnimeList Score: 8.16
Chapters: 93
Published: Sep 12, 2013 to Apr 22, 2021
Genres/Theme: Comedy, Supernatural
Author : Kiri Wazawa
Illustrator : Kiri Wazawa

The Morose Mononokean explores the lighter side of exorcism, portraying demons as misunderstood entities rather than embodiments of evil. Following the friendship between Hanae Ashiya and exorcist Haruitsuki Abeno, this series emphasizes heartwarming encounters with spirits seeking resolution, creating a delightful blend of humor and empathy.

5 Beyond The Boundary

A Unique Blend of Everyday Life and Supernatural Adventures

MyAnimeList Score: 7.72
Episodes: 12
Aired: 2013
Studios: Kyoto Animation
Genres/Theme: Action, Supernatural, School

Beyond The Boundary invites viewers into a world where the concept of exorcism is reimagined. Featuring Mirai Kuriyama, a spirit warrior, the plot interweaves everyday school life with battles against supernatural forces. The evolving relationship between Mirai and Akihito Kanbara, an immortal spirit, adds layers of depth and emotional connection to the narrative.

4 Blue Exorcist

A Renowned Tale of Demonic Heritage

The Different Exorcism Classes Explained Blue Exorcist

MyAnimeList Score: 8.58
Published: 2009 to Present
Genres/Theme: Action, Supernatural, Mythology, School
Author : Kazue Katou
Illustrator : Kazue Katou

One of the quintessential series in the genre, Blue Exorcist chronicles the story of brothers Rin and Yukio, who bear the blood of Satan. Following the tragic loss of their guardian to demonic forces, they embark on a quest of revenge and redemption as they train to become exorcists. This narrative features classic shōnen elements combined with rich world-building and acute character arcs.

3 Mob Psycho 100

An Heartwarming Exploration of Abilities and Emotions

MyAnimeList Score: 8.49
First Aired: 2016
Studios: Bones
Genres/Theme: Action, Comedy, Supernatural

Mob Psycho 100 follows Shigeo Kageyama, an emotionally reserved middle-schooler with extraordinary psychic abilities. While he navigates the complexities of adolescence, the series poignantly addresses themes of mental health and personal growth, juxtaposed with engaging action. The vibrant animation and comedic elements enhance its appeal.

2 Taste

A Hilarious Buddy-Cop Style Investigation

MyAnimeList Score: 8.39
Published: 2021 to Present
Genres/Theme: Action, Comedy, Supernatural
Author : Yukinobu Tatsu
Illustrator : Yukinobu Tatsu

Dandadan innovatively weaves together scientific and spiritual elements within its narrative, following the unlikely duo of Momo Ayase and Ken Takakura as they engage in unpredictable supernatural adventures. The series excels in humor, encapsulating bizarre situations and outlandish scenarios that keep readers entertained.

1 Jujutsu Kaisen

A Groundbreaking Series Reshaping the Genre

MyAnimeList Score: 8.58
First Aired: 2020
Studios : MAP
Genres/Theme: Action, Award Winning, Supernatural, School

Jujutsu Kaisen made a significant impact upon its anime debut, renowned for its exceptional animation and action choreography. Centered on Yuji Itadori’s journey after inadvertently consuming a cursed object, the series heightens engagement with its diverse characters and an intriguing magic system. While it retains many traditional shōnen conventions, it also prompts deeper reflections on the human experience.

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