Lists of the 5 Best Mystery Anime of All Time

Mystery anime has a special appeal that captivates many viewers. Witnessing the intricate puzzle pieces fall into place can transform an ordinary anime enthusiast into a modern-day Sherlock Hound by the conclusion of a series.

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Mystery stories can be divided into two categories: expertly crafted masterpieces or poorly executed adventures with predictable endings. Luckily, Japanese animators and storytellers excel at handling this genre with elegance and flair. So, what is the best mystery anime ever? Let’s explore the top 5 best mystery anime of all time in the section below.

1. Mononoke

• Release Date: July 13, 2007
• Studio: Toei Animation
• Number of Episodes: 12
• Streaming Service(s): Crunchyroll , Netflix , Tubi

Mononoke showcases not just a visually striking art style in the realm of anime, but also intricate enigmas to unravel in every episode. The Medicine Seller is tasked with unraveling the form, truth, and reason of each spirit before wielding his sword to exorcise it.

The show delves deep into the sinister aspects of human behavior against a supernatural setting, where humans commit heinous acts that give rise to vengeful Mononoke. Brace yourself for the shocking revelations in the concluding episode that will surely leave viewers in awe.

2. Made In Abyss

• Release Date: July 7, 2017
• Studio: Kinema Citrus
• Number of Episodes: 25
• Based On: Manga
• Creator: Akihito Tsukushi
• Streaming Service(s): Amazon Prime Video , HIDIVE

When considering the concept of “mystery,” one may immediately think of detective stories, however, this is just a small aspect of the genre. Made in Abyss, despite not focusing on solving cases, delves deeply into the theme of the unknown. The anime follows two children from different backgrounds as they explore a vast dungeon called the Abyss, a place that challenges logic and understanding. Despite being a dangerous place where many adventurers have met their end, the Abyss continues to draw in new explorers who are driven by a desire to uncover its secrets. Made in Abyss is a dark, captivating, and gruesomely detailed anime that immerses its characters (and viewers) in a world that is beyond their comprehension.

3. Mushi-Shi

• Release Date: October 23, 2005
• Studio: Artland
• Number of Episodes: 46
• Based On: Manga
• Creator: Yuki Urushibara
• Streaming Service(s): Crunch yroll , Hulu , Tubi

The next name on a list of the best mystery anime of all time is Mushishi, an individual dedicated to studying the enigmatic beings known as Mushi. These almost incomprehensible entities can assume various forms and appear to be devoid of any human understanding of mortality.

Mushi-shi follows Ginko’s quest to track down any encounters with these peculiar creatures and unravel the significance of their existence, both in a physical and philosophical sense. In contrast to other mystery anime, Mushi-shi unfolds at a much slower and more serene pace, presenting itself more as a slice of life series rather than a gripping thriller. Nonetheless, it is truly exceptional.

4. Pluto

• Release Date: October 26, 2023
• Studio: Studio M2
• Number of Episodes: 8
• Based On: Manga
• Creator: Naoki Urasawa
• Streaming Service(s): Netflix

After a long wait, Pluto is now streaming on Netflix, and the 8-part OVA does justice to Naoki Urasawa’s original material. The series delves into common sci-fi themes such as human identity in a unique manner, and the character exploration, especially of Gesicht and Atom, is a highlight. While the central case is intriguing, it falls short as a strong mystery.

5. Baccano!

• Release Date: July 27, 2007
• Studio: Brain’s Base
• Number of Episodes: 16
• Based On: Light Novel
• Creator: Ryōgo Narita

Baccano! weaves together the stories of alchemists from 1711 and a transcontinental train in the 1930s, gradually revealing a complex and interconnected narrative. This series is a must-watch for fans of historical dramas looking for a captivating puzzle-solving experience.

Adapted from an award-winning light novel, Baccano! promises to captivate its audience with its unique storytelling. However, one drawback is that the anime only scratches the surface of the source material, leaving viewers craving for more. While the show is definitely worth a watch, it serves more as an introduction to the light novel.

Conclusion – What is the best mystery anime ever?

The world of anime offers a treasure trove of captivating mysteries. This list merely scratched the surface of the incredible storytelling and puzzling narratives available. Whether you crave a classic whodunit, a mind-bending psychological thriller, or a supernatural investigation, there’s a mystery anime waiting to test your deduction skills and keep you guessing until the very end. Hope that these suggestions are useful for you.