Anime is a popular genre that can be found on streaming services. While there are many different types of anime, psychological anime is one of the most captivating and suspenseful genres. These five anime are some of the best examples of psychological anime and will keep you on the edge of your seat.
What are Psychological Animes?
Psychological animes are a form of animation particularly known for focusing on complex characters whose emotions and personalities are intertwined with the plot. Such anime often feature psychological topics such as emotion, identity, coping with stress and trauma, and human nature. They also delve into philosophical concepts, technology, and society.
Many psychological animes use surreal imagery along with thought-provoking storylines. It is common for them to contain horror, suspense or mystery elements that make the viewer experience something far greater than surface-level entertainment. With their focused character development and exploration of emotional landscapes, these series offer profound transformative experiences for viewers who watch them.
Psycho pass
Psycho Pass is a Psychological anime series that debuted in 2012 and quickly gained popularity among viewers. It has since spawned two full-length movies, multiple manga and light novel adaptations, and an array of other merchandise. Set in the future, the show follows rookie inspector Akane Tsunemori as she works with her unit’s “latent criminals” to solve crime cases at the behest of the Sibyl System.
Psycho Pass brings Psychological aspects into the traditional Anime format through themes such as morality and justice. It explores the idea of free will versus determinism, questioning what happens when technology is used to decide a person’s fate. With its strong visuals and thought-provoking narrative, Psycho Pass provides a captivating experience for fans of Psychological Animes.
Kuuchuu Buranko
Kuuchuu Buranko is a show revolving around the unorthodox practices of Dr. Ichiro Irabu at his psychiatric ward in Irabu General Hospital. The eccentric doctor helps out various patients, ranging from a trapeze artist to a gangster and even a businessman, by using his unique injections and seemingly-nonsensical pieces of advice. During the process, Mayumi, the downcast nurse with an alluring look, supports him.
Even though his treatments are very unconventional in approach, they help the patients gain a greater understanding of themselves. In that way, Kuuchuu Buranko shows us how self-discovery is sometimes found when one looks inward in unconventional ways.
Ghost in the shell
Ghost in the Shell, an iconic Japanese Psychological Anime, first released in 1995, is a touchstone of sci-fi culture. Set in a future version of Japan featuring advances in cyber technology, it follows the journey of Major Motoko Kusanagi, an amnesic cyborg devoted to tracking down tech criminals and uncovering government secrets. With themes that explore topics such as transhumanism, identity and existence, such elements make this anime one of the most compelling psychological tales.
Moreover, its influence can be found beyond the anime world; many movies owe their inspiration to this classic work. If you’re looking for something thought-provoking and original to indulge yourself with, look no further than Ghost in the Shell.
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Neon Genesis Evangelion
Neon Genesis Evangelion is undoubtedly one of the most prolific and well-loved Psychological Animes ever. Having been first released in 1995, studio Gainax’s hit anime continues to be beloved by viewers today. It tells the story of Shinji Ikari, a fourteen-year-old boy who has to lead a ragtag bunch of teenage pilots against alien forces threatening the world while learning how to open himself up and deal with his psychological issues.
With subtle animation techniques and distinctive characters, it defies genre conventions and explores themes such as psychology, religion, gender and identity. Neon Genesis Evangelion has an enduring legacy twenty-five years after its debut and remains an unmissable experience for any Psychological Anime fan.
Serial Experiments Lain
Serial Experiments Lain is a Japanese anime series that was released in 1998 and spanned 13 episodes. It expresses the idea of connectedness through its story of interweaving and merging of physical, virtual, and psychological realms.
Its complex narrative explores technology’s impact on our consciousness, psyche, and overall identity. It features an abstract art style that gives viewers an intriguing glimpse into the creator’s imagination as they attempt to explore how ideas such as alienation and personal acceptance exist in modern society.
With a captivating atmosphere and thought-provoking plotlines, it continues to draw in fans worldwide who marvel at its unique vision.
Psychological Animes allow us to explore the intricacies of our minds and existence beyond the boundaries of reality. From Ghost in the Shell’s exploration on transhumanism to Neon Genesis Evangelion’s themes of identity, these animes will surely provide viewers with an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re a fan of sci-fi or psychological thrillers, there’s something for everyone. So why not take a chance and explore the depths of your own consciousness? You may be surprised!
