Essential Insights on Crime-Themed Anime
- These captivating anime series combine the adrenaline-fueled excitement of gangster films with the distinct allure of anime, offering fans an exhilarating visual and narrative experience centered on crime dramas.
- With morally complex characters showcased in series like Gangsta. and intricate relationships evident in Phantom: Requiem for the Phantom, these titles explore profound psychological themes set within the criminal underworld.
- Whether it’s the high-octane action of Jormungand or the gripping narrative of dark themes in Banana Fish, these anime provide a diverse range of content for every crime drama aficionado.
The fascination with gangsters, mobsters, and crime lords spans cultures and time periods. Numerous anime series delve into the shadowy realms of organized crime, merging rapid-fire action, gunplay, and thoughtful examinations of ethics, psychology, and morality.
These productions encapsulate many distinctive features of classic Hollywood gangster films while adding the unique charm that defines anime. With extraordinary animation and outstanding soundtracks, these series cater to even the most discerning fans of crime narratives.
Updated on November 5, 2024 by Mark Sammut: This Fall, a new anime exploring organized crime titled Yakuza Fiancé: Raise wa Tanin ga Ii has emerged. While it’s too early to evaluate its full impact, the series has proven entertaining thus far, particularly with its darker romantic undertones.
This article has also been refreshed with galleries and detailed specifications for each crime-focused anime, including two recent series additions.
Additionally, JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure deserves recognition; its fifth part prominently features mafia themes.
13 Gangsta.
MyAnimeList Score: 7.41
In Gangsta., the title itself gives insight into the nature of the series. Its stunning opening sequence introduces viewers to a gritty world filled with drugs, prostitution, and criminals, all underscored by an infectious tune. Set in the tumultuous town of Ergastalum, the story follows “Twilights,”super-human beings with heightened abilities thanks to a special drug. The duo, Nicholas Brown and Worick Arcangelo, dubbed the ‘Handymen,’ accept perilous jobs that others won’t touch.
Regrettably, the series concludes with an unresolved cliffhanger, as its studio, Manglobe, shuttered with Gangsta. marking their final release; thus, a sequel seems unlikely. This anime serves primarily as a promotional vehicle for its manga while mastering its role impressively.
12 Hinamatsuri
MyAnimeList Score: 8.12
Hinamatsuri offers a unique blend of humor and organized crime, albeit with a comparatively light emphasis on the latter. It’s an ideal choice for viewers seeking laughter interwoven with themes of psychics, the yakuza, and even homelessness. Following the story of low-level yakuza Nitta, who finds a girl named Hina in a mysterious pod, the series humorously navigates his newfound role as a reluctant guardian to Hina, a formidable psychic searching for a fresh start on Earth.
11 Phantom: Requiem for the Phantom
MyAnimeList Score: 7.92
In this psychological thriller, Zwei finds himself brainwashed by Ein, the organization’s top assassin, transforming him into a puppet of the criminal organization Inferno. As he seeks to reclaim his memories, the intricate relationship between Ein and Zwei serves as a fascinating examination of human nature and behavior.
Although this anime features some plot inconsistencies, like a notable time skip that raises ambiguity about character ages, its exploration of mature themes makes Phantom: Requiem for the Phantom a compelling watch.
10 Jormungand
MyAnimeList Score: 7.79
Jormungand presents an intriguing parallel to Black Lagoon, following Jonah Mar, a former child soldier, who is reluctantly drawn into the criminal underworld as he becomes tasked with protecting Koko Hekmatyar, an illegal arms dealer. This setup creates internal conflict for Jonah, who harbors a deep disdain for weapons and dealers, resulting in a thrilling narrative filled with moral dilemmas.
While this series is undoubtedly action-packed and exhilarating, some may argue that it prioritizes action over character development. However, for those seeking a high-octane ride loaded with thrilling escapades, Jormungand delivers admirably.
9 Michiko & Hatchin
MyAnimeList Score: 7.83
Michiko & Hatchin marks a distinctive entry in the anime world, set in a fictional South American country rather than Japan. This series chronicles the journey of escaped convict Michiko Malandro as she searches for her lover, prompting her to abduct Hana Morenos, a girl she believes might help her. As Michiko evades the crime syndicate Monstro Preto, the story unfolds into a captivating cat-and-mouse chase.
Created by the talent behind Samurai Champloo and Ergo Proxy, this anime effectively showcases Latin American representation, underscored by an incredible soundtrack by Shinichiro Watanabe, and a colorful cast of multifaceted characters.
8 91 Days
MyAnimeList Score: 7.83
Set against the backdrop of the 1920s prohibition era, 91 Days delivers a gripping narrative as Angelo Lagusa seeks vengeance against the Vanetti crime family after witnessing his parents’ murder. Returning to his hometown, Lawless, Illinois, he befriends the Don’s son, Nero, as part of his elaborate revenge plot.
This series evokes a distinct resemblance to cinematic masterpieces like The Godfather or Goodfellas, making it particularly appealing to fans of revenge tales. With gripping action sequences and morally ambiguous characters, it captivates its viewers. Opting for the stellar English dub enhances the overall experience.
7 Cyberpunk: Edgerunners
MyAnimeList Score: 8.60
While the Cyberpunk 2077 video game faced many challenges upon release, its prequel anime, Cyberpunk: Edgerunners, has been universally praised. This visually stunning series follows troubled teen David Martinez, who becomes engulfed in the criminal underworld after a drive-by shooting changes his life.
With a prosthetic enhancing his abilities, David enters a criminal gang led by Netrunner Lucy Kushinada, which forces him to confront numerous moral conflicts amid the chaos of Night City.
6 Banana Fish
MyAnimeList Score: 8.48
Breaking the mold of traditional shojo anime, Banana Fish derives from Akimi Yoshida’s revered manga, adapted into a series set in the gritty streets of 1980s New York. The story encapsulates gang leader Ash Lynx’s quest to uncover the truth behind the mysterious ‘Banana Fish,’ with Eiji Okumura, a photographer’s assistant aiding him in his journey.
This influential series touches on heavy themes like child exploitation and drug trafficking, distinguishing itself as a remarkably dark narrative within the anime and manga scene.
5 Gungrave
MyAnimeList Score: 7.82
Gungrave merges traditional crime drama with sci-fi elements, chronicling Brandon Heat’s journey within the Millennion crime syndicate alongside his friend Harry MacDowel. Following Brandon’s betrayal and resurrection through necrolyzation, the story unfolds with thrilling reveals.
Recognized as an underrated adaptation of a video game, Gungrave expands upon its source material, providing engaging narratives and unique character arcs.
4 Bungo Stray Dogs
MyAnimeList Score: 7.81 (Season 1)
A seinen anime that evolves from ordinary to extraordinary, Bungo Stray Dogs initially presents itself as just another supernatural action series. However, as the story progresses, the focus shifts more towards the Port Mafia and explores the depths of its characters, especially Osamu Dazai.
This meticulous portrayal of organized crime provides a nuanced approach, transforming the Port Mafia into a richly developed entity rather than merely an antagonist. While it leans towards the fantastical, Bungo Stray Dogs is an engaging adventure that keeps viewers entertained.
3 The Fable
MyAnimeList Score: 8.05
While the anime adaptation of The Fable might not reach the dizzy heights of its manga counterpart, it offers a fresh dark comedy perspective on the world of crime. The titular character struggles to merge his hitman persona with everyday life, which is compounded by his unexpected entanglement with the local yakuza.
Although it incorporates humor, The Fable does not shy away from serious themes, portraying blackmail, murder, and exploitation in a raw and realistic light. The seedy atmosphere serves to keep the narrative gripping and evocative.
2 Black Lagoon
MyAnimeList Score: 8.03
For fans who appreciate the essence of Hollywood-style action flicks, Black Lagoon is a classic to relish. It follows businessman Rokurou Okajima, who becomes embroiled in the chaotic life of the Lagoon Company, a group of pirates engaged in smuggling operations across Southeast Asia.
Combining humor with deep philosophical inquiries into the nature of crime, this series features a vibrant cast of characters and engaging depictions of various crime organizations around the globe. The tumultuous journey of Black Lagoon is one of laughter and gripping action.
1 Noise!
MyAnimeList Score: 8.35
If Quentin Tarantino were to create an anime, it would likely resemble Baccano!. With a non-linear narrative that intertwines multiple storylines during the Great Depression, this series focuses on a colorful ensemble cast featuring mobsters, thieves, and immortals. From the quirky duo Isaac and Miria to the cunning mafioso Firo, and the deranged Ladd Russo, Baccano! is a chaos-filled adventure.
With a vibrant array of characters, thrilling violence, and a standout English dub often likened to Cowboy Bebop, there’s much to adore about this beautifully chaotic anime.
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