The anime Berserk accurately summarizes the essence of the grimdark genre (characters and storylines depicted with a gray moral perspective). Although it doesn’t shy away from causing distress, despair, and violence, Berserk and its characters also convey a profound exploration of human emotions, including the struggle for purpose, resilience, and redemption amidst chaos.
There are many other anime that may not be as impactful as Berserk, yet they certainly evoke a similar sense of existential contemplation for viewers.
Claymore
When the village of Raki is attacked by a bloodthirsty monster known as a youma, a female warrior named Clare arrives to eliminate the threat. However, she is not just any ordinary warrior; she is a Claymore—a hybrid creature that possesses both human and youma characteristics, with the primary purpose of exterminating these monsters.
Raki is initially terrified, but after the incident, he is left alone in his village due to his fear of becoming a youma himself. Determined, he decides to accompany the Claymore warrior Clare to fight against the youma. The mysteries surrounding Claymore and Clare’s own troubled past begin to unravel.
Any fan of Berserk will undoubtedly appreciate a character who wields a sword and traverses various landscapes like a soldier in battle, confronting the darkness head-on.
Devilman: Crybaby
When Akira Fudou, a timid high school student, is asked by his childhood friend Ryou Asuka to help him confront demons, he inadvertently becomes a Devilman after merging with a demon named Pochita. Together, they face the horrors of a world filled with chaos and bloodshed.
As a Devilman, Akira possesses extraordinary strength but retains his human emotions, allowing him to connect with both demons and humans. This duality drives him to fight against the demons that threaten humanity while also grappling with his own inner turmoil.
With various demons to confront in a dark, dystopian world, Devilman: Crybaby offers a visceral experience for fans of Berserk seeking a similar narrative.
Goblin Slayer
Goblin Slayer centers around a group of adventurers on a quest to eradicate Goblins. However, due to their inexperience, they quickly find themselves overwhelmed, leaving only the titular character, Goblin Slayer, to battle on their behalf. This leads to a narrative that focuses on the relentless pursuit of vengeance and survival against a backdrop of violence.
Despite the series being less focused on existential themes compared to Berserk, Goblin Slayer demonstrates how the pursuit of safety can lead to unexpected consequences in a brutal world.
Monster
Neurosurgeon Kenzou Tenma faces a moral dilemma when he saves the life of a young boy named Johan Liebert, who later becomes a notorious serial killer. Years later, Tenma grapples with the consequences of his decision, facing the horrors that Johan unleashes in the world.
While the violence in Monster may not be as overt as in Berserk, the psychological depth and the exploration of guilt and moral ambiguity resonate deeply, making it a compelling watch.
Hellsing Ultimate
This horror anime revolves around the Hellsing Organization, which is dedicated to combating supernatural threats, particularly vampires. The protagonist, Alucard, is a powerful vampire who fights against other supernatural entities while working under the Hellsing family. The series combines horror, action, and drama in a way that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats.
With its intense battles and dark themes, Hellsing Ultimate is perfect for fans of Berserk who crave a protagonist willing to confront evil head-on.
Chainsaw Man
Denji and his pet devil Pochita struggle to survive in a harsh world. Unfortunately, after being betrayed by the yakuza, Denji merges with Pochita, gaining the ability to transform into Chainsaw Man. He then becomes a Public Safety Devil Hunter, fighting against various devils while navigating the complexities of his new life.
While Denji’s life may not parallel Guts or Griffith, his determination to fight for a better life showcases a relentless spirit, even when faced with overwhelming odds.
Vinland Saga
Thorfinn, born in Iceland, grows up with a deep-seated desire for revenge after witnessing his father’s murder. He becomes a soldier, seeking to avenge his father’s death. Throughout his journey, themes of violence and conflict are ever-present as he navigates his quest for vengeance.
Similar to the Band of the Hawk in Berserk, the Vikings in Vinland Saga embody the fight for survival. And like Guts, Thorfinn battles with the hope of eventually finding his own path to peace, though the journey is fraught with challenges and moral quandaries.
Source: Comicbook
