Delving into the same vein as our exploration for top ghost anime series, another popular trope in supernatural shows caught our interest – the undead, zombies that feed on human flesh. These monsters are often portrayed in horror and action genres, but also find their way into comedies and dramas. To expand our scope, we’ve included series featuring similar creatures, along with an unsettling, suspenseful mood, and of course, the ever-present flesh-eating creatures. So, let’s dive right in!
Highschool of the Dead
One well-recognized anime series that delves into the realm of zombies is “Highschool of the Dead.” This show offers a blend of supernatural horror, erotic elements, and intense action, all drenched in gore. As a result of an abrupt zombie infestation, a band of high school students find themselves thrust into a struggle for survival amidst the apocalypse and ensuing chaos. To stay alive, they must flee and combat the relentless undead hordes.
In a heart-wrenching turn of events, the central character, Takashi Kimuro, found himself in a desperate situation where he had to kill his closest companion, who had turned into a zombie following a bite, as a means of self-preservation and mercy. Evading peril, he bands together with other survivors. Shared by this tragic incident, they embark on a journey aimed at finding their loved ones and unraveling the mystery behind this terrifying outbreak.
Biohazard: Degeneration
This animation, often known as “Resident Evil: Degeneration,” represents the first full-length CG animated movie based on the Resident Evil video game series. The narrative unfolds within the canonical universe, one year after the events of the Resident Evil 4 game. It centers around an outbreak of zombies in a U.S. airport, where people succumbed to the T-virus.
In a mystery surrounding the source of the epidemic, characters Leon Scott Kennedy and Claire Redfield embark on a quest for knowledge, all the while battling the brainless horrors that surround them. This gripping sci-fi horror production was brought to life by Digital Frontier studio in 2008.
Yi Ren Zhi Xia / Hitori no Shita – The Outcast
While making his way to pay respects at his grandfather’s grave, Zhang Chulan unexpectedly encounters zombies upon reaching the cemetery. Terrified for his survival, he flees from the attackers, but is fortuitously saved by a mysterious girl who eliminates the threats and then vanishes. She leaves him bewildered after advising him to confront his challenges directly.
In due course, he encounters the same girl at his college. Subsequently, individuals with unique skills and talents start showing up. As they engage in one conflict after another, these protagonists strive to endure and vanquish their latest adversaries in this thrilling show that keeps revealing fresh enigmas with each installment. The series comprises 12 episodes and received a second season in the year 2018.
Zombieland Saga
A young woman, once aspiring to be an idol, endured a heartbreaking destiny. Decade later, she finds herself as a zombie, devoid of memories from her previous life. It turns out that she, together with six other girls, were resurrected by Koutarou Tatsumi. His ambition was to rejuvenate the economy in Zombieland by creating an idol group comprising females from various time periods.
In a managerial role, he started arranging events for the team to participate in, as they brainstormed the name “Franchouchou” and embarked on their supernatural journey with an undead theme. This humorous anime series, produced by studio MAPPA, won awards and premiered in 2018, featuring a total of 12 episodes.
Kara no Kyoukai
This franchise is centered around mysterious occurrences, each with a supernatural origin, as depicted in a series of novels with a light tone. The movies offer chilling, ominous settings filled with creatures like zombies and intricate murder mysteries, providing audiences with a dark and suspenseful experience for quite some time.
As the films unfold, they show growth in plotline and character depth, transitioning from action-heavy storytelling to ones with deeper narrative nuances. The thrilling zombie battles and captivating animation make this anime a must-watch on our recommended list.
Kore Wa Zombie Desu Ka? / Is This a Zombie?
Sixteen-year-old Ayumu Aikawa was brought back to life by a necromancer following his death while investigating a specific residence. Now an undying zombie, Ayumu is relentless in his pursuit to locate and exact revenge on the one who took his life.
During his pursuit of the man who murdered him, Ayumu stumbles upon an enigmatic girl brandishing a chainsaw, engaged in combat with a bear. After the bear is vanquished, she attempts to obliterate any recollections of herself from Ayumu’s mind, but instead, he assimilates her magical powers. As a result, Ayumu, now transformed into a zombie, assumes the duty of a Megalo hunter – these monstrous creatures plague the earth and pose a threat to humanity.
Shinsha no Teikoku / The Empire of Corpses
The show centers on the tale of Victor Frankenstein, focusing on his groundbreaking work that brought corpse resurrection to life. Nowadays, humanity has the ability to control and instruct the undead for labor purposes across multiple professions, with these reanimated beings performing various tasks.
The key issue with this resurrection process is that it brings back the deceased without a spirit or soul. Eager to expose the mysteries behind reanimation, a young medical student named John Watson sets out on a quest to locate Victor Frankenstein’s notes and decipher the secrets of creating a soul. This unique twist on the classic horror tale was brought to life by Wit Studio in 2015 and won the Platinum Grand Prize at the Future Film Festival held in Italy in 2016.
Koutetsujou no Kabaneri / Kabaneri of the Iron Fortress
The storyline revolves around an apocalypse occurring during the industrial era. A strange disease has been unleashed, leading to the emergence of horrific beings who feed on humans. Humans bitten by these creatures called “Kabanes” transform into them.
The Kabane are famously covered in tough, protective layers on their hearts. Ikoma, a determined young man, has crafted a weapon he believes can penetrate this armor and save humanity from the scourge of these beings. He eagerly awaits the opportunity to use his invention. Within the safety of a massive fortification, mankind’s struggle against these creatures is marked by thrilling action and chilling horror scenes, making this series an exciting addition to our recommendations.
Ga-Rei: Zero
Kagura Tsuchimiya is raised under the care of the Isayama family. Over time, she develops a strong relationship with their biological daughter, Yomi, that resembles sisterhood. Eventually, both girls become members of an official government department called the Supernatural Disaster Countermeasures Division.
In their role as expert exorcists, these sisters track down and eliminate otherworldly creatures concealed among us for the safety of humanity. This thrilling television show revolves around themes of deception and rehabilitation, as the sisters’ journeys appear to grow increasingly divergent. The 12-episode anime was broadcasted in 2008 and is distributed by Funimation.
Shi Xiong / Zombie Brother
Originally from H City, an average individual named XiaoFei is now facing an unprecedented catastrophe. A mysterious virus tainted the local spring water, causing the inhabitants to transform into ravenous zombies.
Anxious about his own safety, XiaoFei yearns fervently to flee the cursed city and reunite with his beloved girlfriend. As he struggles to stay alive, it appears that the zombies are gradually transforming. The gripping 2D animated show spans across 41 episodes, and a 39-episode sequel followed in 2015.
Seoul-yeok / Seoul Station
In this animated movie produced by Studio Dadashow, we get a glimpse into events that occurred before the global phenomenon of the acclaimed Korean film, “Train to Busan.” The outbreak of a zombie epidemic sends the world into turmoil and leaves those who miraculously escaped the virus scrambling for survival.
Amidst a city where zombies seem to be lurking around every turn, our three main protagonists find themselves cornered at Seoul Station. With their survival on the line, they’ll need to devise a plan to stay alive. This film was released in August 2016 and despite not receiving positive reviews from viewers, it managed to win the 2016 Asia Pacific Screen Award for the Best Animated Feature Film.
Kamisama no Inai Nichiyoubi / Sunday Without God
In a world where God has been absent for fifteen years on a Sunday, the story unfolds. This world, left abandoned, necessitates the presence of “gravekeepers” who maintain a delicate equilibrium between the living and the deceased. These gravekeepers have the unique power to ensure peaceful burials for the dead and allow them to rest. An additional aspect is that no new life is able to enter this world.
In this tale, the main character is a youthful girl named Ai, residing in a humble hamlet. She assumes the duties of gravekeeper as a substitute for her mother. The narrative unfolds when an enigmatic man appears in the village, asserting himself as her father, and ends up murdering everyone except his own daughter who embarks on a journey with him.
Aru Zombie Shoujo no Sainan / Calamity of the Zombie Girl
A thrilling tale about supernatural horror unfolds as we follow two reanimated mummies seeking to recover what was wrongfully taken from them – an ancient artifact known as the Stone of Life. When a group of five daring students ventured into the library’s forbidden storage area, they unwittingly awakened these two ancient female mummies hidden among the antiquities.
In simpler terms, the stone mentioned earlier gave the mummies extraordinary strength and everlasting life. When this artifact was taken, it led to the mummies reawakening as zombies after a century-long slumber. The violent events that ensued instilled an indescribable terror in the onlookers, who saw these undead creatures shatter human skulls and consume their flesh for power.
Shingeki no Bahamut: Genesis / Rage of Bahamut: Genesis
Back in 2014, I stumbled upon a captivating supernatural fantasy produced by studio MAPPA, which was adapted from a popular card game. The narrative was intriguing, filled with twists and turns that kept me hooked, while the diverse cast of characters, ranging from necromancers to demons and dragons, added an extra layer of excitement. As a film enthusiast, I found the action-packed series to be an engaging and enjoyable watch.
In a realm inhabited by both demons and deities, an assortment of seemingly ordinary individuals have been unwittingly drawn into an epic struggle between these mighty entities. As they grapple with the unsettling prospect of an impending conflict, they must carve out their own destiny and navigate through the challenges that lie ahead.
Black Bullet
In this show, another catastrophic event unfolds: a virulent parasite triggers a global outbreak, transforming infected humans into terrifying creatures known as Gastrea. To protect themselves from these beasts, humanity has constructed fortified walls called Monoliths, the only material capable of harming Gastrea being Varanium.
Amidst all the chaos, mankind has discovered a method to combat these beasts. Young women who carry remnants of the virus within them possess extraordinary powers and are known as “Initiators”. These warriors have companions assigned to safeguard them, often referred to as “Promoters”. The narrative focuses on one such pair who battle against the Gastrea danger in Tokyo.
Sankarea
In simpler terms, this ecchi comedy revolves around a youth named Chihiro Furuya, who’s been captivated by zombies since childhood. This fascination led him to attempt brewing a resurrection potion following the demise of his beloved cat. With inspiration from Rea Sanka, a girl hailing from an affluent family, he eventually manages to achieve his goal.
In an attempt to escape the stifling existence dictated by her family, Rea drank what she believed was a lethal potion. However, this substance inadvertently transformed her into a zombie following a tragic accident that ensued shortly thereafter. As the narrative of Chihiro and Rea unfolds, we delve deeper into the peculiarities surrounding Rea’s strange metamorphosis.
Gyo / Gyo: Tokyo Fish Attack
Gyo is an anime version based on Junji Itou’s manga series with the same name. Unlike the manga, this adaptation flips the positions of the main characters, Kaori and Tadashi, and introduces fresh characters and plotlines. The narrative revolves around the two survivors who lived through the initial, terrifying attack by sea creatures that can cause destruction on land.
As I endeavored to reach my beloved Tadashi in Tokyo, I found myself hurrying towards him with all my might. Unbeknownst to me, my efforts to be reunited with my partner were but a prelude to what was yet to come. The sea creatures, these peculiar beings, are manipulated by an enigmatic mechanism that allows them to traverse land, emanating a noxious stench of decay as they advance.
Dorohedoro
In a heartbeat, I found myself captivated by this supernatural comedy that swiftly won over audiences. The story is intricately woven around a grim, lawless landscape where a notorious spot known as “The Hole” resides. This forsaken realm, shunned by the rest of the world, serves as a home to the outcasts – murderers, mutilated souls, and those mutated beyond recognition, freely wandering the desolate streets of this decaying district.
In the series, Kaiman serves as our main character, who along with others, navigates through this peculiar world. More lizard than human, his recollections of his past are limited, yet powerful sorcerers might hold the key to unlocking them and helping him regain control of his life once more. The realm of Dorohedoro teems with supernatural creatures and monstrosities, including zombies that emerge due to the lingering magic residue from magic users within Hole.
Tokyo Ghoul
Although ghouls deviate from the “undead” classification, they share a commonality with zombies in their appetite. Ghouls, being supernatural entities endowed with extraordinary power, feast on human tissue. However, this anime transcends action, gore, and brutality by offering much more than just these elements.
Tokyo Ghoul continues to be one of the most recognized anime series due to its ability to tackle significant life questions in a realistic and vivid way. This series is a masterful portrayal of the hardships of internal conflict and the harshness of both humans and ghouls, drawing inspiration from the works of Franz Kafka, known for his themes of alienation and unease. The story unfolds as it follows the transformation of Kaneki Ken into a half-ghoul, exploring the complexities of the human and ghoul worlds, while keeping a sharp focus on the mindset of the character who straddles both realms – the One-Eyed Ghoul, Kaneki Ken.
Gungrave
Gungrave is a well-known franchise that combines elements of zombies, crime, drama, and shooting games. In the world of arcade classics, it stands out as a zombie anime. The story revolves around Brandon Heat, who was brought back to life through a process called necrolyzation, now known as Beyond the Grave. Thirteen years ago, he was betrayed and killed by his friend. Driven by the desire for revenge, Brandon takes on the powerful crime syndicate.
The narrative subsequently delves into Brandon’s childhood and his bond with Harry MacDowel. The plot gains momentum as their carefree camaraderie and indulgent lifestyle encounter an abrupt wake-up call, revealing the ruthless nature of the world they inhabit.
Shikabane Hime: Aka / Corpse Princess
Raised amidst deceased bodies at a shrine, Ouri Kagami is an orphan who observed Keisei Tagami, his orphanage’s benefactor, resurrecting a scarred corpse. Subsequently, he encounters the revived Makina Hoshimura and learns that her role is to eradicate the undead, as they pose a hazard to the general public.
In my experience, I’ve come to be known as “Shikabane Hime,” or the “Corpse Princess.” As I navigate through life’s unusual occurrences, I keep encountering this mysterious figure, and eventually, we develop a strong bond that seems to intertwine our destinies. It’s our shared fate that might unravel the mysteries concealed within the realm of Shikabanes.
Tokkou
The “Tokku” anime is based on a comic book (manga) with the same title that debuted in 2006, which coincidentally was also the year the final manga installment was released. The narrative revolves around Shindou Ranmaru, who encounters the girl he’s been dreaming about on the day of his graduation from the police academy.
Rokujo Sakura, the young woman in question, is uncovered as part of an elusive organization called Tokko – Special Public Safety Task Force. When Shindou becomes a member and sets out for revenge on his parents’ murderers, a series of chasms mysteriously erupt across Japan. Subsequently, hordes of monstrous zombies began to pour onto the streets, posing as a relentless, indomitable threat that humanity must fend off in order to endure.
Zombie-Loan
The horror series based on supernatural themes is a reinterpretation of a comic book sharing the same title, centering on a peculiar loan agency known as “Zombie Loan”. Specifically, when Michiru Kita, who possesses the unique ability to see the ominous “death rings” of individuals nearby, notices entirely black death rings around the necks of two of her schoolmates, she decides to alert them in an effort to preserve their lives.
In this unique scenario, I’ve discovered that these rings serve as a grim predictor of impending demise, with darker hues indicating a person’s time is running out. To my astonishment, I learned that the two boys are not merely deceased but have been revived through the peculiar mechanism of Zombie Loan. The catch? They owe this second chance at life by hunting and eradicating zombies. Given my abilities, Michiru might prove to be a valuable asset in this endeavor…
Gakkougurashi! / School-Live!
Initially, the day at school seems ordinary, but an unforeseen event abruptly alters the entire ambiance of the show, making it a surprising turn of events. Although revealing the twist from the very start, here’s what earns this anime a spot on our list.
Pupils who belong to the School Living Club eagerly anticipate seizing each fresh opportunity at their institution. However, one day a zombie invasion erupts, and the bloodthirsty, cadaver-devouring creatures start to swarm the city. With no other choice, the club members fortify themselves within their school and confront the dreadful situation they’ve found themselves in.
Hellsing
Lastly, it’s impossible to compile a list of series featuring supernatural, cannibalistic monsters without acknowledging Hellsing. This gritty, action-packed franchise, steeped in darkness and violence, has been revered as a timeless masterpiece in its genre for quite some time.
This animated series focuses on a character named Alucard, a vampire who specializes in eliminating and mercilessly slaying the undead, along with various other supernatural creatures. In his role as an exterminator for Hellsing, he often finds himself battling against fellow vampires, as well as those who are at odds with the organization. We suggest opting for Hellsing Ultimate over its 2001 counterpart if you’re planning to watch it.
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2025-05-24 07:48