Top 25 Best Crime Anime for Thrilling Investigations and Intense Action

Crime anime is a genre of anime that focuses on crimes, investigations, and the criminal underworld. These anime often revolve around solving mysteries, catching criminals, and exploring the psychological aspects of the criminal mind. Crime anime can include a variety of sub-genres such as detective, thriller, action, and suspense.

Sure, here are 25 recommended crime anime:

Death Note

Alt Name	デスノート
Studio	Madhouse
Year	2006
Genres	Mystery, Police, Psychological, Supernatural, Thriller, Crime

Death Note is a popular crime anime that aired in 2006-2007. The series follows the story of a high school student named Light Yagami who discovers a mysterious notebook with the power to kill anyone whose name is written in it. As Light begins to use the Death Note to rid the world of criminals and create a utopian society, he is pursued by a brilliant detective named L.

The anime is known for its complex characters, intricate plot, and intense psychological battles between Light and L. It also explores themes such as justice, morality, and the corrupting influence of power. Death Note has been praised for its intelligent writing and suspenseful storytelling, making it one of the most iconic crime anime of all time.

Psycho-Pass

Alt Name	サイコパス
Studio	Production I.G
Year	2012
Genres	Action, Crime, Police, Psychological, Sci-Fi

Psycho-Pass is a crime anime that aired in 2012-2013. The series takes place in a dystopian future where a powerful computer system called the Sibyl System is used to manage society and identify individuals who may become criminals. The story follows a team of detectives and enforcers who work for the Public Safety Bureau's Criminal Investigation Division, tasked with tracking down and apprehending criminals.

The anime explores themes of free will, justice, and the use of technology in society. It is known for its thought-provoking storytelling, well-developed characters, and stylish visuals. Psycho-Pass has received critical acclaim and has been praised for its mature themes and social commentary. The series has also spawned several sequels, including a second season and a movie.

Monster

Alt Name	モンスター
Studio	Madhouse
Year	2004
Genres	Drama, Horror, Mystery, Crime, Police, Psychological, Seinen, Thriller

Monster is a crime anime that aired in 2004-2005. The story follows Dr. Kenzo Tenma, a talented brain surgeon who saves the life of a young boy named Johan Liebert. However, after several murders occur, Tenma realizes that Johan is a dangerous sociopath and sets out to stop him.

The anime explores themes of morality, identity, and the consequences of one's actions. It is known for its complex characters, slow-burning suspense, and detailed world-building. Monster has received critical acclaim and is often praised for its mature storytelling and emotional depth. It is considered one of the best crime anime of all time and has become a classic of the genre.

Baccano!

Alt Name	バッカーノ！
Studio	Brain's Base
Year	2007
Genres	Crime, Action, Mystery, Comedy, Historical, Supernatural

Baccano! is a crime anime that aired in 2007. The story takes place in the 1930s and follows a large cast of characters as they become involved in a complex and interconnected web of events. The narrative jumps back and forth in time, making it a non-linear story that explores multiple perspectives and timelines.

The anime is known for its fast-paced storytelling, unique characters, and stylish visuals. It combines elements of crime, action, and supernatural fiction to create a compelling and entertaining story. Baccano! has received critical acclaim and is often praised for its unconventional narrative structure and engaging characters. It is considered one of the best crime anime of its time and has gained a loyal following among fans of the genre.

Durarara!!

Alt Name	デュラララ!!
Studio	Brain's Base
Year	2010
Genres	Action, Supernatural, Mystery, Crime

Durarara!! is a crime anime that aired in 2010. The story takes place in the Ikebukuro district of Tokyo and follows a large cast of characters as their lives become intertwined in a web of intrigue and mystery. The series is known for its unconventional storytelling, multiple plot threads, and complex characters.

Durarara!! explores themes of identity, social dynamics, and the darker side of human nature. It is known for its stylish visuals, quirky sense of humor, and action-packed sequences. The anime has received critical acclaim and is often praised for its intricate plot and well-developed characters. It is considered one of the best crime anime of its time and has gained a cult following among fans of the genre.

91 Days

Alt Name	91Days
Studio	Shuka
Year	2016
Genres	Drama, Action, Crime, Historical

91 Days is a crime anime that aired in 2016. The story takes place during the Prohibition era in the United States and follows a man named Angelo Lagusa as he seeks revenge against the Vanetti mafia family for the murder of his family. The anime explores themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the consequences of violence.

91 Days is known for its intense atmosphere, intricate plot, and realistic portrayal of organized crime during the Prohibition era. The series has a strong focus on character development and explores the moral complexities of revenge and justice. It also features excellent animation, voice acting, and music that enhance the overall viewing experience. 91 Days has received critical acclaim and is often praised for its mature storytelling and attention to detail.

Black Lagoon

Alt Name	BLACK LAGOON
Studio	Madhouse
Year	2006
Genres	Action, Crime, Seinen

Black Lagoon is a crime anime that aired in 2006-2007. The story follows the adventures of a team of mercenaries called the Lagoon Company, who operate out of the lawless city of Roanapur, Thailand. The anime is known for its high-octane action, dark humor, and well-developed characters.

Black Lagoon explores themes of morality, loyalty, and the blurred lines between good and evil. It is often praised for its intense and well-choreographed action scenes, as well as its stylish visuals and soundtrack. The anime has a gritty and realistic feel to it, which adds to the overall sense of danger and excitement. Black Lagoon has gained a loyal following among fans of the crime genre and is considered one of the best action anime of its time.

Gangsta

Alt Name	GANGSTA. ギャングスタ
Studio	Manglobe
Year	2015
Genres	Action, Drama, Seinen, Crime

Gangsta is a crime anime that aired in 2015. The story takes place in a city called Ergastulum, which is populated by criminals and corruption. The series follows two handymen named Worick Arcangelo and Nicolas Brown, who take on various jobs for different clients in the city.

Gangsta explores themes of violence, discrimination, and the struggle for power in a lawless society. The anime is known for its gritty and realistic tone, as well as its well-developed characters and unique setting. It features intense action scenes and a well-crafted story that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. Gangsta has received critical acclaim and is often praised for its mature storytelling and attention to detail. It is considered one of the best crime anime of its time and has gained a loyal following among fans of the genre.

Jormungand

Alt Name	ヨルムンガンド
Studio	White Fox
Year	2012
Genres	Action, Adventure, Seinen, Crime

Jormungand is a crime anime that aired in 2012. The story follows a young arms dealer named Koko Hekmatyar and her team of bodyguards as they travel the world selling weapons to various clients. The anime explores themes of morality, the consequences of violence, and the relationship between war and commerce.

Jormungand is known for its fast-paced action, intricate plot, and well-developed characters. It features a diverse cast of characters, each with their own unique personality and backstory. The anime also touches upon controversial topics such as terrorism, government corruption, and the military-industrial complex. Jormungand has received critical acclaim and is often praised for its mature storytelling and attention to detail. It is considered one of the best crime anime of its time and has gained a loyal following among fans of the genre.

Banana Fish

Alt Name	BANANA FISH
Studio	MAPPA
Year	2018
Genres	Action, Adventure, Crime, Drama

Banana Fish is a crime anime that aired in 2018. The story follows a young gang leader named Ash Lynx and a Japanese photographer named Eiji Okumura as they become embroiled in a conspiracy involving a mind-controlling drug called "banana fish." The anime explores themes of trauma, abuse, and the effects of war on society.

Banana Fish is known for its intense and emotional storytelling, well-developed characters, and stylish animation. It touches upon controversial topics such as gun violence, LGBTQ+ rights, and the war on drugs. The anime also features a unique blend of action, drama, and romance that keeps viewers engaged throughout the series. Banana Fish has received critical acclaim and is often praised for its mature storytelling and attention to detail. It is considered one of the best crime anime of its time and has gained a loyal following among fans of the genre.

Great Pretender

Alt Name	GREAT PRETENDER
Studio	Wit Studio
Year	2020
Genres	Action, Adventure, Crime, Mystery, Comedy, Psychological

Great Pretender is a crime anime that aired in 2020. The story follows a con artist named Makoto Edamura and his partner, a seasoned thief named Laurent Thierry, as they travel the world scamming wealthy and powerful individuals. The anime explores themes of trust, deception, and the blurred lines between right and wrong.

Great Pretender is known for its colorful and stylish animation, well-crafted story, and clever plot twists. It features a diverse cast of characters, each with their own unique backstory and motivations. The anime also touches upon controversial topics such as social inequality, corruption, and the dangers of greed. Great Pretender has received critical acclaim and is often praised for its mature storytelling and attention to detail. It is considered one of the best crime anime of its time and has gained a loyal following among fans of the genre.

Akudama Drive

Alt Name	アクダマドライブ
Studio	Studio Pierrot
Year	2020
Genres	Action, Sci-Fi, Crime

Akudama Drive is a crime anime that aired in 2020. The story takes place in a dystopian future where a group of dangerous criminals known as "Akudama" are hired to carry out a high-stakes heist. The anime explores themes of justice, morality, and the consequences of living in a society that values power above all else.

Akudama Drive is known for its intense and action-packed scenes, unique and futuristic setting, and well-developed characters. The anime features a diverse cast of characters, each with their own distinct personality and background. It also touches upon controversial topics such as police brutality, authoritarianism, and the dangers of technology. Akudama Drive has received critical acclaim and is often praised for its engaging storyline, stylish animation, and attention to detail. It is considered one of the best crime anime of its time and has gained a loyal following among fans of the genre.

The Promised Neverland

Alt Name	約束のネバーランド
Studio	CloverWorks
Year	2019
Genres	Mystery, Horror, Crime, Sci-Fi, Shounen, Psychological, Thriller

The Promised Neverland is a crime/mystery anime that aired in 2019. The story follows a group of orphans living in an idyllic orphanage called Grace Field House. However, when the main characters, Emma, Norman, and Ray, uncover a dark secret about their home, they must devise a plan to escape and uncover the truth behind their existence.

The Promised Neverland is known for its gripping storyline, suspenseful atmosphere, and well-developed characters. It explores themes of survival, trust, and the lengths people will go to protect their loved ones. The anime is also praised for its unique premise and its ability to keep viewers on the edge of their seats throughout the series. The Promised Neverland has received critical acclaim and is often considered one of the best crime/mystery anime of its time. It has gained a dedicated fanbase and has also been adapted into a popular manga series.

Steins;Gate

Alt Name	シュタインズ・ゲート
Studio	White Fox
Year	2011
Genres	Crime, Sci-Fi, Thriller

Steins;Gate is a science-fiction crime anime that aired in 2011. The story follows a self-proclaimed mad scientist named Rintaro Okabe and his friends as they accidentally discover a way to send messages back in time through their microwave. As they experiment with this newfound power, they uncover a dark conspiracy involving time travel and the consequences that come with changing the past.

Steins;Gate is known for its intricate and complex plot, well-developed characters, and unique take on time travel. The anime explores themes of sacrifice, regret, and the dangers of playing with time. It is also praised for its attention to detail, its use of real-world scientific theories, and its ability to balance humor and drama. Steins;Gate has received critical acclaim and is often considered one of the best science-fiction/crime anime of its time. It has gained a dedicated fanbase and has also been adapted into various forms of media, including manga and video games.

ID:Invaded

Alt Name	ID:INVADED イド:インヴェイデッド
Studio	NAZ
Year	2020
Genres	Sci-Fi, Mystery, Crime

ID:Invaded is a crime/mystery anime that aired in 2020. The story follows Sakaido, a detective who is trapped in a strange virtual world called the "Id Well". In this world, Sakaido must enter the minds of serial killers to solve crimes and uncover their identities.

ID:Invaded is known for its unique premise, psychological twists, and well-developed characters. The anime explores themes of trauma, identity, and the human psyche. It also features complex and thought-provoking mysteries that keep viewers guessing until the very end. ID:Invaded is praised for its stunning visuals, intricate world-building, and its ability to blend science-fiction and crime genres. It is often considered one of the best crime/mystery anime of its time and has gained a dedicated following among fans of the genre.

Erased

Alt Name	僕だけがいない街
Studio	A-1 Pictures
Year	2016
Genres	Psychological, Crime, Seinen, Supernatural

Erased is a crime/mystery anime that aired in 2016. The story follows Satoru Fujinuma, a struggling manga artist who possesses the ability to travel back in time moments before a life-threatening incident occurs. When Satoru's mother is murdered, he is sent back to his childhood to prevent her death and solve the mystery behind a series of kidnappings that occurred in his hometown years ago.

Erased is known for its gripping storyline, strong character development, and emotional impact. The anime explores themes of regret, redemption, and the power of personal connections. It is also praised for its tense and suspenseful atmosphere, intricate plot twists, and engaging mysteries. Erased has received critical acclaim and is often considered one of the best crime/mystery anime of its time. It has gained a dedicated fanbase and has also been adapted into a live-action drama series and a manga.

Rainbow: Nisha Rokubou no Shichinin

Alt Name	少年犯之七人
Studio	Madhouse
Year	2020
Genres	Drama, Historical, Mature, Psychological, Crime

Rainbow: Nisha Rokubou no Shichinin is a crime/drama anime that aired in 2010. The story follows a group of seven teenage boys who are sent to a brutal reform school after being convicted of various crimes. The boys must endure physical and emotional abuse while trying to survive and form bonds with each other in a harsh and unforgiving environment.

Rainbow is known for its dark and gritty portrayal of life in a reform school, its well-written characters, and its emotional impact. The anime explores themes of friendship, loyalty, and the human will to survive. It is also praised for its realistic depiction of the injustices and corruption within the criminal justice system. Rainbow has received critical acclaim and is often considered one of the best crime/drama anime of its time. It has gained a dedicated fanbase and has been praised for its ability to tackle mature themes in a thought-provoking and meaningful way.

Rurouni Kenshin: Trust and Betrayal

Alt Name	るろうに剣心 -明治剣客浪漫譚
Studio	Studio Gallop, Studio Deen
Year	1996
Genres	Action, Adventure, Comedy, Romance, Crime Historical, Samurai

Rurouni Kenshin: Trust and Betrayal is a crime/drama anime that aired in 1999. It is a prequel to the popular Rurouni Kenshin anime series, and follows the story of the legendary swordsman, Kenshin Himura, before he became known as the "Battousai".

Trust and Betrayal is known for its engaging storyline, complex characters, and masterful animation. The anime explores themes of honor, loyalty, and the consequences of violence. It is also praised for its authentic portrayal of the historical setting and its accurate depictions of Japanese culture and martial arts. Trust and Betrayal has received critical acclaim and is often considered one of the best anime films of all time. It has gained a dedicated fanbase and has been praised for its ability to convey a powerful story through its stunning visuals and emotional impact.

Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex

Alt Name	攻殻機動隊 SAC_2045
Studio	Production I.G, Sola Digital Arts
Year	2020
Genres	Action, Military, Sci-Fi, Police, Mecha, Mecha, Seinen

Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex is a cyberpunk/crime anime that aired in 2002. The story takes place in a futuristic world where humanity has advanced technology to the point where people can easily connect their brains to the internet. The series follows the members of the Public Security Section 9, an elite police unit tasked with solving cyber-crimes and protecting society from dangerous hackers and cyber-terrorists.

Stand Alone Complex is known for its complex storyline, deep philosophical themes, and its impressive world-building. The anime explores themes of identity, consciousness, and the relationship between humanity and technology. It is also praised for its stunning visuals, intense action scenes, and its memorable characters. Stand Alone Complex has received critical acclaim and is often considered one of the best cyberpunk anime of all time. It has gained a dedicated fanbase and has been praised for its ability to tackle complex themes and deliver a compelling narrative.

Higurashi no Naku Koro ni

Alt Name	ひぐらしのなく頃に
Studio	Passione
Year	2020
Genres	Mystery, Dementia, Horror, Psychological, Crime, Supernatural, Thriller

Higurashi no Naku Koro ni is a horror/mystery anime that aired in 2006. The story is set in a small rural village called Hinamizawa, where strange events and murders occur every year during the town's annual festival. The anime follows a group of friends who begin to uncover the dark secrets and conspiracies behind the seemingly peaceful village.

Higurashi is known for its gripping storyline, psychological horror elements, and its ability to keep viewers on edge with its unpredictable plot twists. The anime explores themes of trust, friendship, and the consequences of personal choices. It is also praised for its unique and nonlinear narrative structure, which adds to the overall mystery and suspense of the story. Higurashi has gained a dedicated fanbase and has been adapted into several other media, including a visual novel and live-action film.

Ghost Hunt

Alt Name	ゴーストハント
Studio	J.C.Staff
Year	2006
Genres	Comedy, Horror, Mystery, Shoujo, Supernatural, Crime

Ghost Hunt is a supernatural/mystery anime that aired in 2006. The story follows Mai Taniyama, a high school student who gets recruited to work for Shibuya Psychic Research, a company that investigates paranormal phenomena. Together with a team of psychics and scientists, Mai and her colleagues investigate haunted locations, encountering a variety of supernatural entities and spirits.

Ghost Hunt is known for its thrilling and suspenseful storytelling, as well as its diverse and interesting cast of characters. The anime explores themes of the paranormal, psychology, and the supernatural, as well as the importance of teamwork and the power of the human mind. It is also praised for its attention to detail and accuracy in depicting various paranormal phenomena and the scientific methods used to investigate them. Ghost Hunt has gained a dedicated fanbase and has been praised for its combination of horror, mystery, and supernatural elements.

Darker than Black

Alt Name	Darker than BLACK -黒の契約者
Studio	Bones
Year	2007
Genres	Action, Sci-Fi, Mystery, Super Power, Crime

Darker than Black is a sci-fi/action anime that aired in 2007. The story takes place in an alternate universe where an unexplained phenomenon called Hell's Gate has appeared in Tokyo, causing the sky to turn black and granting superhuman abilities to a small percentage of the population. These individuals, known as Contractors, use their powers for various purposes, including espionage and assassination.

The anime follows the story of Hei, a powerful Contractor who works as an assassin for a mysterious organization known as the Syndicate. As he carries out his missions, he uncovers dark conspiracies and secrets about the world he lives in.

Darker than Black is known for its complex characters, intricate plot, and its blend of science fiction and action. The anime explores themes of morality, humanity, and the price of power. It is also praised for its stunning visuals and its unique soundtrack. Darker than Black has gained a dedicated fanbase and has been praised for its ability to deliver an engaging and thought-provoking story.

Ajin

Alt Name	亜人
Studio	Polygon Pictures
Year	2016
Genres	Adventure, Horror, Mystery, Seinen, Supernatural, Crime

Ajin is a sci-fi/horror anime that aired in 2016. The story follows Kei Nagai, a high school student who discovers that he is an Ajin, a rare and mysterious species of human-like beings that are immortal and possess the ability to control a powerful entity called an IBM. After being hunted down by the government for his unique abilities, Kei is forced to go on the run and team up with other Ajin to survive.

Ajin is known for its intense action sequences, suspenseful storytelling, and its exploration of themes such as morality, identity, and the value of human life. The anime also features a unique animation style, blending 3D animation with traditional 2D techniques. Ajin has gained a dedicated fanbase and has been praised for its ability to deliver a thrilling and thought-provoking story.

Zankyou no Terror

Alt Name	残響のテロル
Studio	MAPPA
Year	2014
Genres	Psychological, Thriller, Crime

Zankyou no Terror, also known as Terror in Resonance, is a thriller anime that aired in 2014. The story follows two teenage boys who go by the names Nine and Twelve, who have become terrorists and are carrying out a series of attacks on Tokyo. They leave behind cryptic clues and riddles for the police to solve, leading to a high-stakes game of cat and mouse between the terrorists and the authorities.

The anime explores themes such as terrorism, justice, and the consequences of one's actions. It also delves into the personal lives of the main characters and the traumas they have experienced, adding depth to their motivations and actions. Zankyou no Terror is known for its tense and suspenseful storytelling, its stunning visuals, and its atmospheric soundtrack, which includes music by renowned composer Yoko Kanno. The anime has gained critical acclaim for its thought-provoking themes and its skillful execution.

Inuyashiki

Alt Name	いぬやしき
Studio	MAPPA
Year	2017
Genres	Action, Sci-Fi, Psychological, Drama, Crime, Seinen

Inuyashiki is a sci-fi/action anime that aired in 2017. The story follows Ichiro Inuyashiki, a 58-year-old man who is diagnosed with terminal cancer and is given only a few months to live. However, after a strange encounter with a UFO, he wakes up to discover that his body has been replaced with a powerful robotic one. He soon learns that he is not the only one who has been given this new lease on life, as a young man named Hiro Shishigami has also been given a robotic body and is using his newfound powers to cause chaos and destruction.

The anime explores themes such as the value of human life, the use and abuse of power, and the consequences of one's actions. It also delves into the personal lives of the main characters and their struggles to come to terms with their new bodies and the responsibilities that come with them. Inuyashiki is known for its fast-paced action, its emotional storytelling, and its unique take on the superhero genre. The anime has gained critical acclaim for its exploration of complex themes and its ability to deliver an engaging and thought-provoking story.

These anime are known for their gripping storylines, intense action, and well-developed characters. Each one offers a unique take on the crime genre, ranging from psychological thrillers to high-octane heist stories. Ultimately, the best crime anime for you will depend on your personal preferences and what kind of crime stories you enjoy.

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