Best Psychological Anime of the 2000s

Ranked by community ratings from MyAnimeList across 85 psychological titles spanning 2000–2009.

1
Madhouse · 2004 · 501,858 ratings
Audience opinions on Monster are divided. While many praise its intricate story, well-developed characters, and...
8.9
2
Madhouse · 2007 · 2,975,165 ratings
Death Note is widely praised for its unique premise, suspenseful plot, and intellectual depth, sparking debates about...
8.6
3
Gonzo · 2006 · 368,568 ratings
Audience opinions on NHK ni Youkoso! are mixed, with some praising its realistic portrayal of social issues,...
8.3
4
Toei Animation · 2007 · 105,079 ratings
Mononoke is lauded for its unique artistic style, which blends vibrant visuals with Japanese folklore to create a...
8.3
5
Khara · 2009 · 362,612 ratings
Audience reception is divided, with some praising the film's visual spectacle and fresh take on the story, while others...
8.3
6
Madhouse · 2008 · 122,470 ratings
Audience consensus is largely positive, praising the show's strategic depth and unique premise. However, some find the...
8.3
7
Madhouse · 2007 · 177,024 ratings
Audience sentiment towards Gyakkyou Burai Kaiji is generally positive, praising its intense psychological elements and...
8.2
8
Studio Deen · 2007 · 266,570 ratings
Higurashi no Naku Koro ni Kai is generally well-received for providing answers to the mysteries set up in the first...
8.1
9
Gainax · 2000 · 464,171 ratings
FLCL is a highly divisive anime praised for its artistic merits and exploration of adolescence, but heavily criticized...
8
10
Radix · 2002 · 113,874 ratings
Haibane Renmei is a deeply moving and thought-provoking anime that resonates with viewers on an emotional level. Its...
8
11
Madhouse · 2006 · 304,010 ratings
Paprika is praised for its breathtaking visuals, innovative animation, and thought-provoking exploration of dreams....
8
12
Khara · 2007 · 377,265 ratings
Audience reception is mixed, with many praising the updated visuals and improved pacing, but others criticize the...
8
13
Madhouse · 2008 · 48,524 ratings
Kaiba is praised for its unique artistic style, imaginative world-building, and thought-provoking themes. However, the...
8
14
Manglobe · 2006 · 256,734 ratings
Audience reactions to Ergo Proxy are mixed, with some praising its thought-provoking story, visual artistry, and...
7.9
15
Studio Deen · 2006 · 414,402 ratings
Higurashi no Naku Koro ni is a highly divisive anime, praised for its intricate mystery, well-developed characters, and...
7.9
16
Production I.G · 2008 · 40,899 ratings
Audience reception is mixed, with many feeling the 2.0 version diminishes the original's impact. The improved audio is...
7.9
17
Madhouse · 2005 · 48,286 ratings
Akagi is a highly regarded anime for its intense psychological battles and unique atmosphere, although the unusual art...
7.8
18
Production I.G · 2005 · 35,668 ratings
The audience generally appreciates the xxxHOLiC movie for its strong visuals, engaging storyline, and balance of horror...
7.8
19
Studio Deen · 2007 · 71,014 ratings
Overall, the audience consensus is positive, with many considering 'Jigoku Shoujo Futakomori' a significant improvement...
7.8
20
Studio 4°C · 2006 · 47,659 ratings
Tekkonkinkreet is a visually and thematically rich anime that deeply resonates with many viewers due to its unique art...
7.8