Occasionally, we all need a break from our busy lives and turn to movies or anime for entertainment. Today I’ve compiled a list of top mafia-themed anime series for fans who appreciate gangster stories. Remember, don’t skip any titles on this list! This genre encompasses various criminal organizations such as mafias, Yakuza, gangsters, and mobsters. Despite their differences, they all have one commonality: they are involved in illegal activities. Here is a list of the 50 best mafia anime series.
Hey there! We all need some downtime from our jam-packed schedules, right? Well, sometimes movies and anime can be just the ticket! Today I’ve curated a list of top mafia-themed anime series for fans who love gangster stories. Make sure you don’t miss out on any titles in this list! This genre includes all kinds of criminal organizations like mafias, Yakuza, gangsters, and mobsters. Even though they may differ in various ways, they all share one thing: a focus on illegal activities.
1. ‘Bungo Stray Dogs’
Intriguingly enough, I find myself captivated by the engrossing narrative of ‘Bungo Stray Dogs.’ This tale unfolds in an extraordinary world, where remarkable talents, termed as “Gifted,” are bestowed upon certain individuals. These prodigious skills are inspired by illustrious literary figures and their masterpieces. The plot weaves around Atsushi Nakajima, a destitute orphan who’s forced to fend for himself after being expelled from his orphanage. His life takes an unexpected turn when he crosses paths with the enigmatic members of the Armed Detective Agency, a band of supernaturally gifted detectives, who utilize their talents to unravel intricate mysteries. As Atsushi delves deeper into this world, he uncovers his own unique Gifted ability, making him an invaluable addition to this extraordinary group.
2. ’91 Days’
The narrative unfolds in the town of Lawless, Illinois, USA, during the year 1928, a time known as Prohibition when the US government forbade the manufacture and sale of alcohol. Contrary to this rule, liquor brewed secretly is surfacing in the town due to an influential Italian mafia. The plot revolves around Angelo Lagusa, who assumes the identity of Avilio Bruno to infiltrate and exact vengeance upon the Vanetti Family. This decision stems from a tragic event that affected his family prior to the story’s beginning.
3. ‘Banana Fish’
Ash Lynx, formerly known as Aslan Jade Callenreese, was once a homeless boy found in New York City and brought up by the notorious Mafia boss, Dino Golzine. At 17, Ash led his gang and delved into the enigma of “Banana Fish”, a term his sister, Griffin, repeated after coming back from the Iraq War. However, his investigation was hampered when his associates tipped off Dino to track him down in a clandestine bar where he sought sanctuary. In this hidden establishment, Skip, Ash’s closest companion, encounters Shunichi Ibe and his colleague, Eiji Okumura – two Japanese photographers documenting American street gangs.
4. ‘Gangsta’
Given the attention-grabbing title ‘Gangsta,’ it’s straightforward to grasp the series’ narrative. The action unfolds in the gritty underworld of Ergastulum, a city teeming with various Mafia syndicates. Prostitution dens, heroin trafficking, and other criminal activities typical of a gangster saga are rampant here. However, the show’s protagonists aren’t affiliated with any mafia families. Instead, they’re skilled individuals who can handle tasks assigned by both criminals and law enforcement. Essentially, they’re in Ergastulum to earn money!
5. ‘Katekyo Hitman Reborn!’
‘Katekyo Hitman Reborn!’ is a series that chronicles the transformation of Tsunayoshi Sawada, who appears to be an average teenager with a less-than-stellar reputation. However, his ordinary life is disrupted when he encounters Reborn, a baby assassin. Reborn decides to mentor Tsuna, aiming to prepare him for the role of the 10th leader of the Vongola Mafia Family. The story delves into Tsuna’s journey as he learns to embrace his new role under Reborn’s tutelage and grow from an ordinary boy into a leader of a powerful Mafia family.
6. ‘Durarara’
‘Durarara!!’ is a Japanese anime series set within the bustling Ikebukuro district of Tokyo, notorious for its bizarre and otherworldly events. The plot is complex, encompassing a vibrant assortment of characters, each harboring unique tales and relationships. Central to the storyline is Celty Sturluson, a headless rider on a motorcycle, who’s on a quest for her missing head. The narrative intertwines with various individuals and groups boasting extraordinary talents and hidden truths.
7. ‘Baccano!’
17th November, 1711, onboard the ship “Advenna Avis”, a group of alchemists convened with the ambition to conjure a demon in pursuit of eternal life. The summoned entity offered them an elixir promising immortality, but also provided a sinister twist: a method for each participant to terminate their lives by consuming one another. The formula for this elixir was given to the summoner, Maiza Avaro.
8. ‘Black Lagoon’
‘Black Lagoon’ is an exhilarating Japanese television series, influenced by the comic book authored by Rei Hiroe. Disenchanted with his corporate existence, a Japanese executive finds himself in the company of abductors, eventually deciding to align with them as part of their crew.
9. ‘Cowboy Bebop’
‘Cowboy Bebop’ is a Japanese animated series that unfolds in the year 2071, when humankind has expanded its presence to various planets and moons. The narrative revolves around a team of space-faring bounty hunters, colloquially referred to as ‘cowboys’, who traverse the cosmos aboard their ship, the Bebop, pursuing dangerous fugitives for monetary rewards. Our lead character is Spike Spiegel, a previous associate of the Red Dragon Crime Syndicate who transitions into an easygoing and proficient bounty hunter.
10. ‘Darken Than Black’
Approximately a decade prior to the story’s unfolding, a strange phenomenon referred to as “Heaven’s Gate” emerged in South America. Subsequently, an inauguration ceremony took place for “Hell’s Gate” in Tokyo, resulting in dramatic alterations to the sky and causing widespread chaos on Earth. During this time, individuals known as “Contractors,” endowed with extraordinary abilities, began appearing. These individuals were kept hidden from public view. Despite their extraordinary powers, Contractors were ruthlessly eliminated, and many suppressed their emotions through the use of logic and reason.
11. ‘Arcana Famiglia’
The Famiglia consists of people who’ve entered into contracts using Arcana cards and gained unique powers as a result. Mondo’s birthday party was a hit, yet he has chosen to relinquish his position and pass the leadership role, which includes control over the Arcana, to the incoming boss.
12. ‘Spy x Family’
Amidst tensions nearing a war between adjacent nations, the secret service of one realm enlists a talented undercover agent called Twilight. Assigned to this clandestine operation, Twilight’s task is to gain access to an exclusive educational institution and forge connections with an influential figure whose sway could potentially halt the impending conflict.
To achieve this, Twilight requires a convincing backstory, which is where the intriguing twist occurs. To fit into society more seamlessly, Twilight opts to create a fictitious family setup. Yor Briar, a tragic-past assassin, unknowingly takes on the role of the spouse, while Anya Forger, a seemingly ordinary girl with psychic abilities, joins the family as an adopted child.
13. ‘Jormungand’
As a devoted film enthusiast, I’d like to share my thoughts about an engaging anime series that goes by the name ‘Jormungand’. This show is adapted from the manga of the same title, penned by Keitaro Takahashi. The narrative unfolds in the intricate world of arms dealing, where global conflicts intertwine with the lives of those who operate within this perilous trade. Here’s a quick rundown:
In essence, ‘Jormungand’ follows the adventures of Koko Hekmatyar, a young and charismatic weapons dealer, along with her diverse team as they navigate through dangerous territories and high-stakes situations. The story delves deep into the complexities of global politics, international conflicts, and the moral ambiguities inherent in the arms trade. It’s a gripping tale that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats, as we witness Koko’s journey through a world shrouded in secrecy and deception.
The story centers around Koko Hekmatyar, a driven and clever arms dealer who heads a team of talented combatants. Despite her profession, Koko strives for a world free from conflict. Her unique strategy entails arming various factions to preserve power equilibrium. Accompanying her in this mission is Jonah, a calm and proficient leader among the mercenaries.
14. ‘Tokyo Ghoul’
The plot of ‘Tokyo Ghoul’ unfolds in a universe parallel to ours where Tokyo houses beings known as ghouls, who are carnivorous like us but resemble humans. Our protagonist, Kaneki Ken, is initially a college student. However, after an unexpected encounter with a ghoul, he undergoes a transformation that leaves him half-ghoul. Ghouls have to feed on human flesh to stay alive. As the story progresses, Kaneki grapples with accepting his new identity and finding his way through the treacherous landscape shared by both humans and ghouls.
15. ‘Hakata Tonkotsu Ramens’
This show is a dynamic blend of “Getbackers,” “Bungou Stray Dogs,” and the street fight scenes from “Slam Dunk.” It offers a one-of-a-kind, engaging experience perfect for marathon viewing sessions.
16. ‘Akame Ga kill!’
As a passionate cinema enthusiast, allow me to rephrase this scenario in the first person: I, a humble villager, embark on a journey to the bustling Capital, driven by the need to accumulate funds for my modest abode. Fate leads me to cross paths with an enigmatic band of fighters known as Night Raid. They offer me an opportunity to join them in their valiant struggle against the oppressive empire, aiming to bring about change and justice.
17. ‘Phantom: Requiem for the Phantom’
The narrative centers on a Japanese individual who, during their travels in America, encounters a dangerous group called Inferno and becomes their captive. This person has firsthand knowledge of assassinations.
18. ‘Gungrave’
‘Gungrave’ is a collection of anime and video games, initially developed from a third-person shooter game, later transformed into an animated series. The plot combines elements of science fiction, supernatural themes, and crime narratives. The story primarily revolves around Brandon Heat and Harry MacDowell, who grow up in a violent city riddled with crime. They become members of the local gang called “Millennion,” climbing through the ranks. As they advance, they assume roles as enforcers for the group, handling various criminal assignments to preserve their power and authority.
19. ‘The Millionaire Detective Balance: Unlimited’
‘The Millionaire Detective Balance: Unlimited’ is an animated television series inspired by the Yasutaka Tsutsui penned “Fugō Keiji” novel series. The narrative focuses on a distinct detective duo, delving into topics of wealth, fairness, and criminality. Daisuke Kanbe, a wealthy and peculiar individual, becomes a detective in the Modern Crime Prevention Headquarters. Utilizing his seemingly infinite financial resources in unusual ways to crack cases, Kanbe employs his wealth as a tool for investigation. He holds the conviction that money can resolve any issue, and he’s not shy about displaying his lavish lifestyle.
20. ‘K Project’
If a notable figure from HOMRA is slain, the Red Clansmen are resolute in seeking revenge on the youth who resembles the presumed killer, a seemingly ordinary and amiable high school student known as Yashiro Isana.
21. ‘Lupin III’
In simple terms, the series ‘Lupin III’ is about the escapades of a skilled thief named Arsene Lupin III, who is the descendant of the cunning burglar, Arsene Lupin, as portrayed in Maurice Leblanc’s novels.
22. ‘Cuticle Detective Inaba’
The story unfolds in a world where beings with both animal and human traits, known as chimeras, roam freely. Each chimera’s abilities stem from their dual nature. This Zootopia-esque setting introduces our main character, Inaba, who happens to be half-wolf. Utilizing his keen vision, Inaba delves into various mysteries.
23. ‘Heat Guy J’
The beginning is somewhat leisurely, with a vintage animation style about two decades old. However, it gains momentum when the primary characters spring into action. Packed with enough thrill and tension to keep you hooked, ‘Heat Guy J’ is an anime set in the future that straddles the line between a mafia storyline and a short-shonen genre.
24. ‘Noir’
In the realm of anime, I’ve come across a captivating series titled ‘Noir’. This production seamlessly blends elements from action, drama, and thriller genres. It’s renowned for its gripping ambiance, intricate characters, and the distinctive flair of noir artistry. The narrative orbits around two enigmatic female figures, Mireille Bouquet and Kirika Yumura, who are inexplicably drawn into a vexing and perilous conundrum. As an experienced assassin residing in France, Mireille, receives a cryptic communication that ultimately guides her to a young Japanese girl suffering from amnesia, Kirika.
25. ‘GetBackers’
One timeless anime from yesteryears! For those who tuned in during the 2000s, ‘GetBackers’ was undoubtedly one of the hilarious, entertaining buddy tales that struck a chord. Many of us gained insights we hadn’t known before, and it was a delightful journey through its 49 episodes.
26. ‘Hinamatsuri’
The anime ‘Hinamatsuri’ starts off with an explicit encounter scene, followed by a sudden shift to events three years prior. While it may not be as comically intense as ‘Gintama’, it effectively blends humor with poignant moments in just the right proportions.
27. ‘Gokushufudou’
The narrative revolves around Tatsu, a notorious and revered yakuza called “The Immortal Dragon.” Once a terrifying presence in the criminal world, Tatsu opted for a new path, leaving the yakuza lifestyle behind to become a devoted home caretaker. Despite his imposing figure and past as a gangster, Tatsu now prioritizes tranquility and order at home, catering to his wife, Miku’s needs.
28. ‘Hunter X Hunter’
The main character, Gon Freecss, is a spirited youth with dreams of following in his father’s footsteps – the renowned Hunter, Ging Freecss. To achieve this dream, he must first clear the demanding and dangerous Hunter Licensing Examination. This test evaluates diverse abilities such as intellect, power, and swiftness.
29. ‘Great Teacher Onizuka’
The narrative centers around Eikichi Onizuka, once a member of a gang and known as a troublemaker, who chooses to transition into teaching. His methods might be unconventional and he may come off as tough, but his resolve is firm in making a difference in the lives of his students. He accepts a teaching role at a high school and encounters numerous hurdles as he tackles challenging pupils and maneuvers through the intricacies of the educational establishment.
30. ‘Shonan Junai Gumi’
The narrative focuses on two tough individuals striving for maturity and experiencing something new for the first time. As they do so, they navigate through life’s complexities, often unaware of potential dangers lurking behind their shoulders.
31. ‘Tokyo Revengers’
In a nutshell, a downtrodden and jobless fellow named Takemichi Hanagaki finds out that his ex-girlfriend, Hinata Tachibana, along with her sibling, were casualties in a terrible incident orchestrated by a notorious gang called the Tokyo Manji Gang. Following an unforeseen twist of fate, Takemichi uncovers he possesses the uncanny ability to journey back in time to his adolescence, offering him an opportunity to thwart the series of disasters that will ultimately determine their future.
32. ‘Black Street Girls: Gokudolls’
Following their unsuccessful attempt to please their Yakuza superior, Yamamoto, Tachibana, and Sugihara find themselves with two options: they could either end their lives for the Yakuza group and sell their organs or embark on a journey to Thailand for a gender transition surgery. Upon returning, they transform into popular idols. In this new role, Airi Yamamoto assumes the lead character.
33. ‘Beastars’
In the realm of ‘Beastars,’ we find an advanced and harmonious world populated by anthropomorphic animals, which leads to tension among carnivores and herbivores. This animosity surfaces at Cherryton Academy, where a wolf student named Legoshi observes the disturbance of tranquility after a fellow drama club member is brutally murdered. This tragic event reveals the simmering disagreements between different animal species within society, paving the way for a captivating and intricate storyline.
34. ‘Saezuru Tori wa Habatakanai’
The narrative centers on Yashiro, a yakuza leader with a secretive and challenging background, accompanied by Doumeki, his steadfast bodyguard. Yashiro grapples with inner turmoil stemming from past mistreatment and trauma, while Doumeki stands as a faithful and enigmatic presence in his life. The graphic novel delves into the intricacies of love, yearning, and the intricate nature of human connections.
35. ‘Kaiji’
‘Kaiji’ gains recognition for its gripping narratives filled with tension, along with its deep dives into the human mind under immense stress. Its use of psychological aspects, risky gambling situations, and motifs of despair and endurance are significant factors that make it a favorite among viewers.
36. ‘Gokusen’
Gokusen is one of the most famous series in the mafia/gangster and Yakuza categories, blending action, humor, and emotion. It’s highly recommended, especially for younger viewers, as it showcases women’s power and urban intelligence beautifully within a compact storyline starring the character Yankumi.
37. ‘Accel World’
In the realm of Accel, similar principles hold true. As time progresses, enhanced games will enable players to boost their cognitive skills, potentially unlocking extraordinary talents. For now, the characters in this anime find themselves battling rival legions and gangs as they strive for recognition. It’s definitely worth checking out!
38. ‘Beelzebub’
As a passionate cinephile, let me share with you my take on the plot of ‘Beelzebub’: In this captivating tale, I find myself embodying Tatsumi Oga, a high school troublemaker renowned for my raw power and combat prowess. One fateful day, by the river’s edge, I stumble upon an enigmatic infant named Beelzebub IV, affectionately known as Baby Beel. Little did I know that this seemingly ordinary baby was none other than the offspring of a Demon Lord, sent to Earth with the ominous mission of annihilating mankind. To my surprise, I am appointed as Baby Beel’s guardian and caretaker. Quite an unexpected turn of events, wouldn’t you agree? Now, it’s up to me to navigate this bizarre new reality while ensuring that the fate of humanity remains intact. Buckle up for a wild ride!
39. ‘Nisekoi’
The narrative revolves around Raku Ichijo, an heir of a yakuza clan, and Chitoge Kirisaki, a young woman whose father leads an opposing gang. To avoid a potential gang conflict, they are compelled to feign a loving partnership. Moreover, Raku carries a pendant that unlocks only with the key held by the girl whom he pledged to wed a decade ago – but he can’t recall her identity.
40. ‘Kemonozume’
As a cinephile scrutinizing the latest flick, I must warn you about the ominous Shokujinki looming over Kemonozume. These beings have masterfully camouflaged themselves among us, adopting human-like appearances to blend in seamlessly. Yet, there’s one glaring difference that sets them apart from our kind – a distinctive trait that reveals their true nature when the curtain falls on humanity.
41. ‘Air Gear’
From April 4th to September 26th, 2006, the animated version of ‘Air Gear’ was broadcasted. However, the anime only adapts a part of the manga, and the full story isn’t depicted. The series is renowned for its thrilling and visually stunning action scenes, as well as its examination of themes like friendship, competition, and self-discovery set within the extraordinary realm of Air Treks, where characters can defy gravity at high speeds.
42. ‘Dogs: Bukkets and Carnage’
The show unfolds in a bleak, post-apocalyptic timeframe, focusing on the complex lives of four principal figures who harbor enigmatic and troubled histories. These individuals share a common bond through their association with a crime-ridden underbelly teeming with corruption, brutality, and hidden truths.
43. ‘Texhnolyze’
‘Texhnolyze’ is a Japanese animated television show that Hiroshi Hamasaki directed, with Yoshitoshi ABe handling the character designs. This production was brought to life by Madhouse studio. Originally broadcast in 2003, this series is renowned for its brooding and moody atmosphere, intricate storyline, and delving into profound themes like existentialism and human psychology.
The narrative unfolds in the subterranean metropolis of Lux, a location marred by societal rot and brutality. Here, a youthful resident called Ichise gets entangled in the power struggles among different groups, such as the governing elite and the criminal element.
44. ‘Tokyo Tribes’
‘Tokyo Tribes’ is recognized for its lively and fashionable portrayal of the Tokyo street life, coupled with a consistent use of rap verses and allusions to hip-hop culture in the narrative. The storyline delves into topics like camaraderie, faithfulness, and how city growth affects underprivileged neighborhoods.
45. ‘Golden Kamuy’
In my humble opinion as a cinephile, ‘Golden Kamuy’ stands out for its painstakingly accurate historical backdrop, intricate character progression, and profound portrayal of Ainu culture, the indigenous people of northern Japan. This captivating series effortlessly blends action, enigma, and humor, all while delving into complex themes such as survival, self-discovery, and the ripples of war.
46. ‘Trigun’
In a far-off, sand-swept world that echoes the American frontier of yore, I find myself immersed in the tale of ‘Trigun’. As a gun-toting drifter reminiscent of the Wild West, Vash the Stampede, a man shrouded in mystery and eccentricity, grabs my attention. With a notorious past of causing catastrophes and mayhem, Vash stands out. Yet, what makes him intriguing is his steadfast commitment to sparing life – a stark contrast to his destructive prowess.
47. ‘Psycho-Pass’
‘Psycho-Pass’ is certainly worthy of being included here. Despite the absence of organized crime like the Mafia, it offers a revealing look at the darker side of Tokyo, as seen through the eyes of its law enforcement personnel.
48. ‘Dorohedoro’
In the gritty world of ‘Dorohedoro,’ the narrative unfolds in a dismal city known as “Hole.” This city serves as a playground for sorcerers from another realm, who conduct horrific experiments on its inhabitants, altering their appearances into monstrous forms. The protagonist, Caiman, is a man with a reptilian head, suffering from memory loss due to a sorcerer’s spell. Joined by his companion Nikaido, Caiman embarks on a quest to uncover the secrets behind his metamorphosis and exact vengeance upon the sorcerer who cast the curse.
49. ‘Akira’
The story of ‘Akira’ unfolds in the metropolis of Neo-Tokyo, where lawlessness reigns among the street gangs. However, anarchy erupts when a man called Tetsuo unleashes his psychic powers following an accident. This triggers a series of violent encounters between rival gangs, leading to a town in a state reminiscent of rioting chaos!
50. ‘Crying Freeman’
The narrative revolves around Yo Hinomura, a skillful potter residing in 1980s Tokyo. However, his life undergoes a significant shift when he is unwittingly converted into the lethal assassin called “Crying Freeman.” This metamorphosis is masterminded by a formidable crime syndicate named “The 108 Dragons.” The Freeman character receives a unique facial tattoo, depicting tears below his eyes, to symbolize his role as an assassin.
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2025-05-30 07:47