Anime That Carry the Same Sad and Power as Tokyo Ghoul!

Tokyo Ghoul stands out for its dark and emotional story combined with intense action. It tells the tale of Kaneki, a boy caught between two worlds—human and ghoul. The series mixes pain, loss, and fierce battles in a way that leaves a deep impact on viewers.

If you’re looking for anime with that same blend of sadness and power, this list is for you. These 12 shows deliver strong emotions and gripping fights. Each one will stay with you long after the last episode ends.

1. Parasyte: The Maxim (2014) — Action, Horror, Sci-fi

A high school boy’s right hand is taken over by an alien parasite. As he fights others like it, he struggles to keep his humanity. This anime dives deep into identity, survival, and what it means to be human. The battles are fast and brutal, packed with tension and emotion.

2. Ajin: Demi-Human (2016) — Action, Sci-fi, Thriller

Ajin are immortal beings hunted by governments and scientists. When a high school student discovers he is one, he must fight to survive capture. The story is dark and full of suspense. It explores fear, loneliness, and the harsh side of humanity.

3. Devilman Crybaby (2018) — Action, Horror, Supernatural

A sensitive boy merges with a demon to fight evil forces threatening humanity. The show is raw, tragic, and violent. It pushes the limits emotionally and visually, delivering a powerful and disturbing story about human nature and loss.

4. Claymore (2007) — Action, Dark Fantasy, Horror

In a world overrun by shape-shifting monsters, female warriors called Claymores fight to protect humans. These half-human, half-monster fighters face constant danger and inner struggle. The anime is grim, with strong themes of sacrifice and pain, paired with brutal fights.

5. Ergo Proxy (2006) — Sci-fi, Mystery, Psychological

Set in a post-apocalyptic world, humans and androids live in a fragile balance. The story follows a woman investigating mysterious murders linked to beings called Proxies. It’s slow and thoughtful, with dark themes about identity, loneliness, and society.

6. Dorohedoro (2020) — Action, Horror, Comedy

In a grim city filled with magic users and mutants, a man with a reptile head searches for the truth behind his transformation. The anime mixes dark, bloody violence with bizarre humor and a quirky style. Its unique world and intense fights make it stand out.

7. Elfen Lied (2004) — Horror, Drama, Psychological

A young girl with deadly powers escapes from a secret lab. The story explores themes of cruelty, loneliness, and human nature. It is violent and tragic, with strong emotional moments and shocking twists.

8. Black Clover (2017) — Action, Fantasy, Adventure

A boy born without magic in a world where magic is everything fights to become the strongest mage. The anime is full of fierce battles and themes of hard work and friendship. Though lighter than Tokyo Ghoul, it shares the idea of pushing through pain and limits.

9. Akame ga Kill! (2014) — Action, Fantasy, Drama

A group of assassins fights a corrupt empire. The story is filled with loss, sacrifice, and moral struggles. The anime does not shy away from killing off key characters, making every battle tense and emotional.

10. Berserk (1997) — Action, Dark Fantasy, Horror

A mercenary named Guts fights through a violent world filled with betrayal and darkness. The anime is brutal and heavy with themes of pain, revenge, and the struggle for meaning. It’s a classic for fans of dark, sad stories.

11. Blue Exorcist (2011) — Action, Supernatural, Fantasy

A boy discovers he is the son of Satan and joins an academy to fight demons. The story mixes action and drama with emotional moments, focusing on the fight against inner darkness and acceptance.

12. Gantz (2004) — Action, Horror, Sci-fi

People who die in accidents are forced to fight aliens in a deadly game controlled by a mysterious black sphere. The anime is violent, suspenseful, and explores survival, fear, and human nature under pressure.