Neon Genesis Evangelion
Alternative names: Shinseiki Evangelion
Genre: Action, Drama, Sci-Fi, Mecha
Episodes: 26 (+movies)
Stream available on: Netflix
The “Second Impact” has forever changed the world. Many people have died, numerous species have been wiped out. Additionally, the world is repeatedly haunted by strange beings known as “Angels.” So far, governments have managed to repel the Angels – but each attack is more devastating than the last.
Young Shinji Ikari is summoned by his father to serve as a pilot for the “EVA” project – large combat robots that can confront the Angels. However, there is far more behind this work, and much darker intentions than one might suspect at first glance…
Why is Neon Genesis Evangelion rated 16? For most of the time, Neon Genesis Evangelion is rather restrained, with most episodes being rated “suitable from age 12” – after all, the anime is a bit older and did not place much emphasis on gruesome depictions, but rather on exciting storytelling.
The problems in the series are often of a psychological nature, and the battles are – with a few exceptions – not particularly brutal or graphic. The rating of “FSK 16” is mainly earned by Neon Genesis Evangelion due to the addition of “The End of Evangelion,” which addresses some slightly tougher themes. But even the modern films of the series (1.11, 2.22, 3.33) are significantly more violent than the original series.
Re:ZERO – Starting Life in Another World-
Alternative names: Re:Zero kara Hajimeru Isekai Seikatsu
Genre: Drama, Fantasy
Episodes: 50 (2 seasons)
Stream available on: Crunchyroll
Subaru only wanted to do some shopping – when he suddenly awakens in the middle of a marketplace in another world. Here, not only fabulous beings roam the streets, but there also seems to be magic. As an “Isekai” fan, he can already guess what has happened: He has been summoned to another world. But nowhere is there a pretty summoner waiting for him, nor does he seem to have any special abilities.
So he sets out to find his purpose in this world – only to be attacked and severely injured shortly thereafter…
Why is Re:Zero rated 16? Re:Zero leaves no questions unanswered after the first few episodes as to why this anime has received a rating of 16. The deaths of the characters often come not only out of nowhere, but are also characterized by detailed cruelty. Whether it’s the targeted torture of beloved characters to break the protagonist’s mind or dismemberment by blades – Re:Zero is not squeamish and also deals with many psychological issues that assign darker themes to the supposedly colorful “fantasy anime”.
Demon Slayer
Alternative names: Kimetsu no Yaiba
Genre: Action, Fantasy
Episodes: 55
Stream available on: Crunchyroll
Since his father’s death, Tanjiro has been taking care of his family. One day, when he returns from errands in the village, he sees his personal horror: his family has been murdered, and his little sister is severely injured. Worse yet, she has been attacked by a demon and begins to transform herself. Hoping to save his sister and avenge his family, Tanjiro sets out, soon becoming part of the “Demon Slayer Corps” and has to leave his old life behind.
Why is Demon Slayer rated 16? Demon Slayer is not only an impressive effect showcase, but also includes a lot of sometimes quite brutal fights. Whether it’s against demons or humans, the series does not shy away from blood – after all, the only way to kill a demon is to behead it. Furthermore, in the case of demons, there are occasionally (seemingly) child-like characters who are also at risk of suffering a similarly gruesome fate as the adults.
If this is still not enough for you and you want to know which anime series are even harder? Anime rated 18 are featured here.
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