10 Most Complex Anime Stories To Watch - retoreview

Anime has long been celebrated for its diverse storytelling, ranging from lighthearted adventures to deep, intricate narratives that challenge viewers' understanding. For those who enjoy a mental workout, complex anime series offer rich plots and profound themes that require careful attention and contemplation. This list highlights the top 10 complex anime stories that are best experienced with a keen mind and an open heart. These are the best complex anime that dive deep into psychological, philosophical, and existential themes, making them must-watch for any serious anime enthusiast.

Complex anime to watch often feature non-linear storytelling, multifaceted characters, and thought-provoking concepts that linger long after the final episode. As you explore these series, you may find yourself pondering questions such as, "Which is the most complex anime?" or "What is the deepest anime of all time?" and even "Which is the hardest anime to understand?" These questions speak to the enduring impact and intellectual engagement these shows provide.

Monster

Dr. Kenzou Tenma, a distinguished neurosurgeon engaged to the hospital director's daughter, is poised for a promising career ascent. However, his trajectory veers dramatically after a pivotal decision alters his fate. Called to swap patients on the brink of surgery—one a prominent celebrity—Tenma's choice saves a life but results in the death of an immigrant worker, sparking a profound moral crisis.

In a subsequent test of conscience, Tenma defies authority to operate on Johan Liebert, a young boy, instead of the town's mayor. This courageous act costs him dearly, tarnishing his reputation. Yet, amidst the suspicious deaths of key figures, Tenma's career rebounds. Years later, when he saves the life of a criminal, he unwittingly rekindles his haunting past—forcing him to confront the repercussions of his past decisions and pursue redemption amidst chaos unleashed by the very person he once saved.

"Monster" is frequently hailed as one of the best anime of all time, lauded for its gripping and morally complex narrative. This recommended anime delves deep into the human psyche, exploring themes of guilt, redemption, and the nature of evil. With its intricate plot and compelling character development, "Monster" is a must-watch for those seeking a profound and intellectually stimulating anime experience.

The Tatami Galaxy

On a crisp autumn evening behind the Shimogamo Shrine, a solitary third-year college student encounters a peculiar man with an eggplant-shaped head who claims to be a deity of matrimony. This unexpected meeting prompts the student to reflect on his tumultuous two years at college—spent in futile attempts to sabotage campus relationships with his only companion, Ozu, a sinister-looking figure bent on making his life miserable. Determined to reshape his college experience, the student resolves to pursue Akashi, a reserved yet kind-hearted underclassman. But his hesitation costs him, leaving him haunted by regrets about his past choices. Just as he resigns himself to fate, he finds himself hurled back through time and space to the beginning of his college journey, offered a second chance to rewrite his life.

"Surreal, artistic, and thought-provoking, 'The Tatami Galaxy' chronicles the adventures of a young man on a quest for friendship, love, and the idealized college experience he has always yearned for. Each episode unfolds a different timeline, exploring how minor shifts in his decisions yield radically divergent destinies.

"The Tatami Galaxy" is celebrated as an anime with a deep story, offering a unique blend of humor, philosophy, and introspection. As one of the best complex anime, it challenges viewers to think about the nature of choices, the passage of time, and the search for personal fulfillment. This series is a must-watch for those who appreciate intricate narratives and artistic storytelling, making it a standout in the world of anime.

Neon Genesis Evangelion

Fifteen years after the catastrophic Second Impact, humanity faces a relentless menace: otherworldly creatures known as Angels invade Tokyo-3 one after another. Despite deploying their most advanced weapons and tactics, mankind is defenseless against these celestial beings. The fate of humanity rests solely with NERV, a secretive organization led by the enigmatic Gendou Ikari. NERV commands towering humanoid machines called "Evangelions," armed with cutting-edge weaponry and shielded by impenetrable Absolute Terror Fields.

Shinji Ikari, Gendou's estranged 14-year-old son, returns to Tokyo-3 years after his father abandoned him. Battling deep-seated trauma from his mother's loss and his father's emotional neglect, Shinji struggles to connect with others. His life takes a pivotal turn when he encounters Misato Katsuragi, a 29-year-old NERV officer whose caring demeanor provides Shinji with a newfound sense of maternal compassion.

A devastating Angel assault thrusts Shinji into action, revealing Gendou's true motive for summoning him to Tokyo-3: Shinji is uniquely suited to pilot Evangelion Unit-01, a powerful new mecha synchronized to his very biology. Despite the psychological toll of piloting an Evangelion, Shinji bravely defends Tokyo-3 against the Angelic threat, unaware of his father's hidden agenda.

"Neon Genesis Evangelion" is often hailed as one of the top anime of all time, renowned for its deep psychological and philosophical themes. As one of the most watch anime series, it offers a unique blend of mecha action and emotional depth. This recommend anime is essential viewing for anyone interested in complex storytelling and character development, making it a standout in the anime world.

Texhnolyze

In the depths of Lux, an underground city cloaked in darkness, inhabitants endure lives fraught with fear and hopelessness under the dominion of ruthless criminal syndicates. Isolated from the world above, these factions derive their sole connection to the surface through the mining of "raffia," a rare substance pivotal to the city's existence.

Exclusive to Lux, raffia serves as the foundation for "texhnolyze" implants, revolutionary cybernetic prosthetics that seamlessly integrate with the human body without eliciting immune responses—a technological marvel exploited extensively by the ruling elite known as "The Class." This enigmatic leadership oversees both raffia production and the elusive texhnolyze technology, delegating authority to the brutal Organo group, led by Keigo Oonishi—a figure whose texhnolyzed legs are rumored to resonate with the city's mysterious "voice."

The delicate equilibrium in Lux fractures with the arrival of Kazuho Yoshii, a shadowy visitor whose escalating criminal activities stoke tensions among the warring factions. Amidst the ensuing chaos, new actors emerge: Ichise, a former boxer mutilated by Organo and recently outfitted with texhnolyze limbs by the clandestine surgeon Eriko "Doc" Kamata; and Ran, a young seer with the ability to glimpse into the city's turbulent future. As Lux spirals deeper into turmoil, Ichise and Ran find themselves thrust into the heart of the city's most profound crisis yet, where survival hinges on navigating treacherous alliances and unraveling the secrets buried within its darkest corners.

"Texhnolyze" is regarded as one of the best sci-fi anime to watch, blending dystopian elements with existential themes and profound philosophical questions. As a top organized crime anime, it explores the intricate dynamics of power, survival, and human nature in a bleak and oppressive setting. This series is a must-watch for fans of thought-provoking storytelling and atmospheric world-building, making it a standout in the anime genre.

Puella Magi Madoka Magica

Madoka Kaname and Sayaka Miki are typical middle school girls leading ordinary lives until their encounter with Kyuubey, a cat-like magical familiar, and Homura Akemi, a mysterious new transfer student.

Offering them a life-altering choice, Kyuubey promises to grant any wish they desire in exchange for becoming magical girls—bestowing upon them powers to realize their dreams. However, Homura, herself a magical girl, warns them against accepting Kyuubey's offer, revealing a hidden truth that complicates their decision.

Mahou Shoujo Madoka★Magica unfolds as a tale of hope, despair, and friendship, exploring the challenges and sacrifices inherent in the life of a magical girl. This series defies traditional magical girl tropes, delivering a darker and intricately woven narrative that challenges the genre's conventions.

"Puella Magi Madoka Magica" stands out in anime recommendations for its innovative take on the magical girl genre. Despite its initial appearance, it is an underrated anime to watch for its deep exploration of themes such as sacrifice, destiny, and the true cost of wishes. This series is a must-see for anyone looking to experience a unique and thought-provoking anime.

Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex

In a future not far from our own, humanity has achieved the ability to transplant entire bodies from flesh to machine, blurring the boundaries between physical and cybernetic capabilities. This technological leap offers unprecedented potential for both progress and peril, as criminals exploit these advancements for dangerous new crimes. To counter these emerging threats, the Japanese Government has established Section 9, an elite, autonomous police unit.

Under the leadership of Daisuke Aramaki and Motoko Kusanagi, Section 9 confronts crimes spanning the entire societal spectrum with exceptional efficacy. However, their formidable skills are put to the ultimate test when they encounter a new breed of hacker known as "The Laughing Man." As they pursue this elusive adversary across Japan, Section 9 finds itself ensnared in a perilous game of cat and mouse, where every move leaves a profound impact on their high-stakes mission.

"Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex" is considered one of the best mysteries to watch, blending cyberpunk elements with intricate storytelling and philosophical themes. As a top supernatural anime, it explores the implications of cybernetic enhancements and artificial intelligence on society and the human condition. This series is a must-watch for fans of mystery, science fiction, and deep exploration of technological advancements, making it a standout in the realm of anime.

Paranoia Agent

The notorious Shounen Bat strikes fear into the residents of Musashino City. Zooming on rollerblades and wielding a golden baseball bat, this elusive assailant seems untouchable and enigmatic. The first victim, timid character designer Tsukiko Sagi, faces suspicion as the perpetrator behind the attacks, supported only by her anthropomorphic pink stuffed animal, Maromi.

As Shounen Bat's rampage escalates, detectives Keiichi Ikari and Mitsuhiro Maniwa embark on a relentless pursuit to unmask the assailant. Yet, with each new victim, fear spreads through the town, fueled by chilling rumors and growing paranoia among adults and children alike. Can the detectives uncover Shounen Bat's true identity, or will the town succumb to fear before the mystery is solved?

"Paranoia Agent" is one of the best psychological anime to watch, offering a gripping and unsettling narrative that delves into the human psyche. As a standout detective anime, it combines elements of suspense, mystery, and social commentary, making it a must-watch for fans of intricate and thought-provoking stories. This series explores themes of fear, anxiety, and the collective psyche, leaving viewers questioning the nature of reality and the power of paranoia.

Ergo Proxy

In the domed city of Romdo, one of humanity's final bastions, life clings to existence after a global ecological catastrophe rendered the outside world uninhabitable. To aid in mankind's survival, "AutoReivs" — humanoid robots — serve as indispensable aides. Yet, these machines are plagued by the "Cogito Virus," granting them consciousness. Assigned to investigate this mysterious affliction is Re-l Mayer, granddaughter of Romdo's ruler, accompanied by her AutoReiv partner, Iggy. What begins as a routine inquiry soon unravels into a web of conspiracy, exposing humanity's darkest secrets.

Meanwhile, Vincent Law, an AutoReiv specialist, confronts his own troubled past amidst surreal occurrences in Romdo. Together with Pino, a child-like AutoReiv, these unlikely allies delve into hidden truths about their society, their identities, and the forbidden world beyond the dome.

"Ergo Proxy" is often recognized as an anime with a deep story, blending elements of philosophy, psychology, and science fiction. As one of the best complex anime series, it challenges viewers with its intricate plot and profound themes. This series is a must-watch for those who appreciate thought-provoking narratives and the exploration of existential questions, making it a standout in the realm of anime.

Steins;Gate

Eccentric scientist Rintarou Okabe harbors an insatiable curiosity for scientific exploration. Alongside his whimsical friend Mayuri Shiina and tech-savvy roommate Itaru Hashida, Okabe establishes the Future Gadget Laboratory, aspiring to pioneer inventions that defy conventional understanding. Despite their ambitious goals, their most notable creation remains a microwave capable of transforming bananas into an inexplicable green sludge.

However, Okabe's life takes a profound turn when he attends a conference on time travel, triggering a series of inexplicable events surrounding their humble "Phone Microwave." As he discovers its unexpected ability to send messages into the past, Okabe delves deeper into time-travel experimentation, unwittingly drawing the attention and animosity of the secretive organization SERN.

Caught in a perilous struggle, Okabe and his friends face imminent danger as they strive to unravel the consequences of their invention. Amidst the chaos, Okabe battles not only to protect his loved ones but also to preserve his own sanity as reality bends around his groundbreaking discovery.

"Steins;Gate" stands out as one of the best anime of all time, blending science fiction with intense emotional depth. It's considered one of the best anime to watch for those who appreciate intricate plots and popular anime with a lasting impact. The series delves into the complexities of time travel, making it a must-watch for anyone seeking a challenging and rewarding viewing experience.

Serial Experiments Lain

"Lain Iwakura, a shy and introspective fourteen-year-old, receives a disturbing email from her deceased classmate Chisa Yomoda, who recently committed suicide. Despite her lack of interest and proficiency in technology, Lain opens the email, unwittingly entering the Wired—a virtual realm akin to the internet. As she navigates this new digital landscape, Lain's life becomes increasingly surreal. Mysterious figures known as the Men in Black start pursuing her, possessing uncanny knowledge about her existence.

Reality and cyberspace blend as Lain encounters enigmatic puzzles and challenges. Written by Chiaki J. Konaka, acclaimed for works like Texhnolyze, Serial Experiments Lain delves into psychological mysteries. Lain grapples with profound questions of identity, consciousness, and perception, as her choices reshape both the real world and the Wired. In a narrative that transcends boundaries, Lain discovers the profound implications of their presence, bridging two worlds with unforeseen consequences."

"Serial Experiments Lain" is often cited as a top complex anime story, renowned for its intricate and abstract narrative. As one of the best complex anime to watch, it offers a deep and thought-provoking experience that delves into the nature of reality and human consciousness. This anime with a deep story is essential viewing for anyone interested in exploring the boundaries between the digital and the real world, making it a standout series in the realm of psychological and philosophical anime.