Top 50 Best Tragically Sad Anime, Movies, and Series of All Time
5/5 - (35 votes)
Anime is known for its diverse storytelling, ranging from heart-pounding action to whimsical adventures. However, some of the most impactful and memorable series are those that explore the depths of human emotions, pulling you into a world of sorrow, loss, and heartache. Whether it’s the tragic fate of beloved characters, the quiet resilience of the human spirit, or the quiet agony of unresolved love, these anime leave a lasting emotional impact.
In this list, we dive into the 50 saddest anime that will test your emotions and take you on a journey you won’t soon forget. From bittersweet coming-of-age tales to gut-wrenching tragedies that challenge your perception of hope, these series have earned their spot in the hearts of fans around the world. Grab a tissue, because these emotional rollercoasters will make you laugh, cry, and reflect on life in ways you never expected.
50. Miracle Train
Score: 6.6/10
“Miracle Train” begins slowly, which might make it harder for some to engage initially. However, once you push past the first few episodes, it develops into a deeply emotional journey. The anime explores complex relationships and the struggles each character faces, making it an emotional experience that will resonate with viewers, though it starts off a bit slow.
49. Hiiro no Kakera
Score: 6.8/10
In “Hiiro no Kakera,” Tamaki Kasuga is thrust into a world she never expected, learning she is a princess tasked with saving the world. The story delves deeply into dialogues, which might not appeal to everyone, but for fans of deeper character exploration and beautiful emotional moments, this anime is a heartfelt experience.
48. Please Save My Earth
Score: 7.2/10
Alice Sakaguchi’s recurring dreams of a life on the moon lead her to discover that she and her classmates are reliving the memories of their past lives as scientists. “Please Save My Earth” is a poignant story about destiny, self-discovery, and the struggles of overcoming past traumas.
47. H20: Footprints in the Sand
Score: 7.2/10
Takuma Hirose, a blind high school student, embarks on a journey to find healing, only to find that the emotional weight of his past and the connections he forms with new people bring their own challenges. “H20: Footprints in the Sand” is a heartfelt exploration of overcoming personal hardships.
46. Sola
Score: 7.3/10
Yorito Morimiya, an avid photographer, meets a mysterious girl who gradually changes his life. As Yorito uncovers the secrets of her past, he learns about love, loss, and sacrifice. “Sola” blends romance, drama, and mystery in an emotional narrative.
45. Rumbling Hearts
Score: 7.3/10
“Rumbling Hearts” tells the story of four friends whose relationships are tested by love and loss. Takayuki Narum and his friends experience profound emotional turmoil as their bonds are challenged by unforeseen circumstances, making this anime an emotionally-charged experience.
44. Myself; Yourself
Score: 7.3/10
Sakuranomori returns to his hometown after years away and finds that his friends have changed in ways he never expected. “Myself; Yourself” delves into the emotional consequences of growing apart from those you care about, creating a powerful narrative about friendship and self-discovery.
43. Air
Score: 7.4/10
Yukito Kunisaki searches for the winged maiden from his mother’s fairy tales and unexpectedly forms a connection with a young girl named Misuzu. “Air” combines supernatural elements with heartfelt drama to explore themes of connection, love, and loss.
42. True Tears
Score: 7.5/10
Shinichirou Nakagami is caught in a love triangle with two girls who each carry their own emotional burdens. “True Tears” is a beautiful mix of drama and romance, with deeply emotional moments that will resonate with anyone who’s experienced love, loss, and the complexity of relationships.
41. Little Busters!
Score: 7.6/10
“Little Busters!” follows Riki Naoe as he joins a group of childhood friends, struggling with the loss of his parents. Through a mix of humor, friendship, and the inevitable challenges of growing up, this anime explores deeper emotional moments that define the group’s journey.
40. Hanbun no Tsuki ga Noboru Sora
Score: 7.6/10
A tragic love story develops between Yuuichi, who is confined to a hospital, and Rika, a girl also facing her own health challenges. This short series captures the bittersweet moments of their love, knowing that time is not on their side, creating an emotionally poignant tale of youth and loss.
39. Now and Then, Here and There
Score: 7.7/10
Shuu Matsutani’s ordinary life is turned upside down when he is transported to a harsh, dystopian world. This anime explores survival, sacrifice, and hope amid violence and despair, delivering a poignant commentary on the resilience of the human spirit.
38. Chrno Crusade
Score: 7.7/10
Rosette and Chrno, part of a holy organization dedicated to eradicating demons, face numerous challenges as they search for Rosette’s lost brother. The combination of action and personal struggles makes this anime a deeply emotional experience, with themes of redemption and sacrifice.
37. Guilty Crown
Score: 7.7/10
Set in a post-apocalyptic world, “Guilty Crown” follows Shuu Ouma as he uncovers dark secrets about a mysterious virus and his role in a rebellion against a despotic government. This anime combines action with emotional struggles, exploring themes of responsibility, sacrifice, and the cost of power.
36. Orange
Score: 7.7/10
“Orange” is about a high school girl, Naho, who receives a letter from her future self, warning her of the consequences of her choices. This anime explores themes of regret, fate, and friendship, offering a heartwarming yet heartbreaking narrative about trying to change the future.
35. Gakkougurashi!
Score: 7.7/10
At first glance, “Gakkougurashi!” seems like a cheerful slice-of-life anime, but the truth is much darker. The girls in the School Living Club are the only survivors of a zombie apocalypse. This mix of lightheartedness and the harsh reality of survival makes this series a deeply emotional and engaging watch.
Score: 7.8/10
A retelling of the classic Shakespearean tragedy, “Romeo x Juliet” follows the ill-fated love between Romeo and Juliet, who come from warring families. This adaptation brings fresh twists to the classic tale, combining romance and tragedy in a beautifully tragic way.
33. White Album 2
Score: 7.8/10
Haruki Kitahara’s dream of performing at the school festival is complicated by the complex emotions of his music club, where a love triangle forms around him. “White Album 2” explores the painful and beautiful complexities of love, ambition, and sacrifice, with music as the backdrop to the emotional drama.
32. Akame ga Kill!
Score: 7.8/10
Akame ga Kill! isn’t for the faint-hearted. If you’re unprepared for its grim and violent scenes, this anime might not be for you. Despite the brutality, the action-packed plot is gripping for many viewers. Set in a corrupt world, it follows an assassin group, Night Raid, who aim to overthrow the Capital. It’s a world where the strong survive, and the weak perish, highlighting the deep inequality within society. If you’re not afraid of the emotional toll of constant death and loss, this anime will captivate you.
31. Golden Time
Score: 7.8/10
Banri Tada, suffering from amnesia after an accident, starts fresh at a law school in Tokyo. He befriends Mitsuo Yanagisawa and meets the captivating Kouko Kaga, sparking an unforgettable year of personal growth and emotional turmoil. As Banri navigates the complexities of college life, he begins to rediscover who he is, all while experiencing love, mistakes, and self-discovery. Golden Time is a moving exploration of identity and relationships, making it a must-watch for fans of heartfelt stories.
30. Kokoro Connect
Score: 7.9/10
Five students at Yamaboshi Academy form a new club, the Student Cultural Society, when they realize they don’t fit in anywhere else. However, strange events cause their bodies to swap randomly, deepening their emotional bonds and exposing hidden truths. As their connection grows, so do their psychological scars, which begin to tear the group apart. Kokoro Connect is a poignant tale of friendship, secrets, and emotional struggles, making it one of the most compelling sad animes.
29. 5 Centimeters Per Second
Score: 7.9/10
This bittersweet story follows Takaki Toono and Akari Shinohara, childhood friends separated by distance. As time passes, they struggle to maintain their connection despite growing apart. The emotional weight of unspoken feelings and missed chances lingers as they both move on with their lives, wondering if they’ll ever meet again. 5 Centimeters Per Second beautifully captures the sadness of lost connections and the passage of time.
28. Charlotte
Score: 7.9/10
In a world where some teens develop supernatural powers, Yuu Otosaka initially abuses his ability to possess others’ bodies to live an easy life. But when he’s caught by Nao Tomori, he is coerced into joining Hoshinoumi Academy, where he discovers the dark truths about his power. As Yuu and his friends battle the consequences of their abilities, they learn that superpowers come at a steep price. Charlotte is a supernatural drama with an emotional twist, perfect for fans of both action and heartbreak.
27. Searching for the Full Moon
Score: 8.0/10
Mitsuki Kouyama, a young girl with a love for singing, dreams of reuniting with her childhood love, Eichi Sakurai. However, she is diagnosed with a life-threatening tumor that threatens her voice. Despite the risks, Mitsuki refuses surgery, determined to chase her dream of becoming a singer. With the help of two friendly grim reapers, she embarks on a journey to achieve her dreams, leading to an emotional exploration of love, sacrifice, and self-discovery.
26. Haibane Renmei
Score: 8.0/10
Born from a cocoon with no memory, Rakka is accepted into the Haibane community, a group of humanoid beings with wings and halos. As she navigates her new life in Old Home, she uncovers hidden truths about her existence and the rules that bind her. Haibane Renmei delves deeply into themes of redemption, forgiveness, and existential questions, making it a deeply emotional and introspective series.
25. Hanasaku Iroha
Score: 8.0/10
Ohana Matsume’s life turns upside down when her mother abandons her, sending her to live with her grandmother, who runs a rural inn. At first, Ohana struggles to adjust, facing difficult relationships with staff and classmates. However, she gradually transforms her challenges into opportunities for growth, learning valuable lessons about love, friendship, and self-discovery. Hanasaku Iroha offers a hopeful yet emotional journey, perfect for viewers seeking inspiration amidst adversity.
24. Plastic Memories
Score: 8.0/10
Tsukasa Mizugaki, an 18-year-old who failed his college exams, lands a job at Sion Artificial Intelligence Corporation, where he works with androids called Giftias. These androids only live for nine years, and Tsukasa is assigned to retrieve Giftias after their memories expire. Paired with Isla, an experienced Giftia, Tsukasa falls in love with her, but he knows their time together is limited. Plastic Memories is a heartfelt exploration of love, loss, and the fleeting nature of life.
23. The Anthem of the Heart
Score: 8.1/10
Jan Naruse’s life was shattered when she revealed her father’s affair, leading to her parents’ divorce. This trauma manifests as a “fairy egg” in her heart, preventing her from speaking. When Jan is chosen to participate in a musical, she must confront her fears and emotional scars. The Anthem of the Heart explores themes of healing, self-expression, and the power of music to heal emotional wounds.
22. Ef – A Tale of Melodies
Score: 8.1/10
In Ef – A Tale of Melodies, the lives of several individuals intertwine through tragic pasts and complex relationships. Himura Yuu’s encounter with a mysterious girl, Amamiya Yuuko, forces him to confront painful memories, while Shuuichi Kuze, a man seeking solitude, finds himself drawn to Mizuki, despite his attempts to push her away. The anime is a deeply emotional tale about love, loss, and the consequences of past decisions.
When Yuuichi Aizawa returns to a town he visited as a child, he discovers that he has lost all memories of his past. As he befriends several girls, he slowly uncovers fragments of his forgotten memories, realizing how deeply intertwined their lives are. Kanon deals with themes of memory loss, the past’s lingering influence, and the emotional weight of reconnecting with lost parts of oneself.
20. Tokyo Magnitude 8.0
Score: 8.1/10
Set against the backdrop of a devastating 8.0 magnitude earthquake in Tokyo, Tokyo Magnitude 8.0 follows siblings Mirai and Yuuki as they navigate the destruction and chaos caused by the disaster. With slow pacing that builds emotional tension, this series captures the raw struggles of survival and the pain of separation, making its final episodes truly impactful.
19. Banana Fish
Score: 8.1/10
Banana Fish tells the story of Ash Lynx, a young man raised in a mafia family, who uncovers the dark secret of the drug “Banana Fish.” As he investigates the drug’s origins, he is joined by Shunichi Ibe and Eiji Okumura, two Japanese photographers. With powerful action and deep emotional moments, Banana Fish is a thrilling yet heartbreaking series about friendship, survival, and confronting the past.
18. Death Parade
Score: 8.2/10
In the afterlife, souls are judged through games that reveal their true nature. Decim, the enigmatic bartender, leads these games to determine whether the souls will be reborn or sent to oblivion. Death Parade combines mystery, psychological depth, and heartbreaking decisions, making it a unique anime that will stay with viewers long after watching.
17. Garden of Words
Score: 8.2/10
Set during Tokyo’s rainy season, Garden of Words follows Takao Akizuki, a shoemaker in training, and Yukari Yukino, a mysterious woman he meets in a garden. Their bond grows as they meet regularly, offering each other comfort amidst their personal struggles. The emotional depth and poignant themes of love and loneliness make this anime a beautiful yet bittersweet experience.
16. Angel Beats!
Score: 8.3/10
After dying, Otonashi finds himself in the afterlife with no memories of his past. He joins the Shinda Sekai Sensen (SSS), a group fighting against a mysterious girl named Tenshi. As Otonashi uncovers the truth about his existence and his connection to Tenshi, Angel Beats! explores themes of life, death, and redemption with plenty of heart-wrenching moments.
15. Shinsekai Yori (From the New World)
Score: 8.4/10
Set in a dystopian future where psychokinesis is a rare but powerful ability possessed by only 0.1% of the population, Shinsekai Yori follows 12-year-old Saki Watanabe, whose psychic powers awaken at the Sage Academy, a school dedicated to training those with such abilities. As Saki navigates the complexities of this society, she and her friends uncover unsettling secrets about those without powers, including mysteries like the disappearance of children by tainted cats. Saki’s coming-of-age journey is a poignant exploration of the dark truths lurking beneath the surface of her seemingly utopian world.
14. March Comes in Like a Lion (3-gatsu no Lion)
Score: 8.4/10
March Comes in Like a Lion tells the story of Rei Kiriyama, a professional Shogi player struggling with emotional and physical exhaustion due to the pressures of his career. Rei’s solitary world begins to change when he meets three sisters—Akira, Hinata, and Momo—who offer him warmth and understanding. As Rei battles his inner demons, the series paints a touching portrayal of loneliness, friendship, and self-discovery, all while exploring the emotional weight of the Shogi world.
13. Mahou Shoujo Madoka★Magica
Score: 8.4/10
At first glance, Mahou Shoujo Madoka★Magica may appear to be a typical magical girl anime, but it quickly turns dark and complex. The story follows two middle school girls, Madoka Kaname and Sayaka Miki, who are offered the chance to become magical girls by a mysterious cat-like figure named Kyuubey. However, the seemingly simple deal comes with a heavy price, as the girls discover the true cost of their powers. With intense twists and heartbreaking moments, this series challenges the notion of wish fulfillment and the sacrifices made to achieve it.
12. Anohana: The Flower We Saw That Day
Score: 8.5/10
In Anohana, Jinta Yadomi and his childhood friends are haunted by the death of their friend Meiko “Menma” Honma. Years after Menma’s passing, Jinta begins seeing her ghost, leading him to reconnect with his friends to fulfill Menma’s final wish and help her spirit find peace. As they confront their unresolved grief and guilt, the group learns how to move forward and heal, making Anohana one of the most emotionally charged anime series that tugs at the heartstrings.
11. Boku dake ga Inai Machi (ERASED)
Score: 8.5/10
Boku dake ga Inai Machi centers on Satoru Fujinuma, a 29-year-old manga artist who possesses a unique ability called “Revival,” which sends him back in time to prevent tragic events. When Satoru is falsely accused of his mother’s murder, he is sent 18 years into the past, back to his childhood. There, he unravels the mystery of a missing classmate and uncovers a terrifying conspiracy. This time-travel thriller blends suspense with deep emotional stakes as Satoru works to change the course of the future.
10. Violet Evergarden
Score: 8.6/10
Set in a post-war world, Violet Evergarden follows Violet, a former soldier trying to adjust to life after the war and the loss of her beloved commanding officer. Violet begins a new career as an Auto Memory Doll, a professional writer who helps others express their emotions through letters. As she helps her clients find closure, Violet embarks on her own journey of self-discovery, gradually understanding the true meaning of love and the weight of her past actions. This series is a beautifully tragic exploration of grief, healing, and human connection.
Rainbow is a raw and gritty tale of seven teenage boys sent to a brutal reform school where they endure torture and abuse. Despite their dire circumstances, they form strong bonds and support each other through unimaginable hardships. As they make promises to reunite after their release, their stories of resilience and hope shine through the darkness of their painful experiences. This anime is a powerful depiction of the human spirit and the strength of friendship in the face of cruelty.
08. Grave of the Fireflies
Score: 8.6/10
Set during World War II, Grave of the Fireflies follows two siblings, Seita and Setsuko, who struggle to survive after their family is torn apart by the war. Orphaned and homeless, they are forced to navigate a world ravaged by famine and war. The anime poignantly explores the emotional and physical toll of war on civilians, particularly children, and its heartbreaking portrayal of the siblings’ plight makes it one of the most moving films in the medium.
07. Kimi no Suizou wo Tabetai (I Want to Eat Your Pancreas)
Score: 8.7/10
In Kimi no Suizou wo Tabetai, the story follows an aloof boy who discovers the secret illness of a popular and vibrant girl named Sakura Yamauchi. Sakura is suffering from pancreatic disease and has only a short time to live. As they develop a deep bond, the boy learns to embrace life and love through Sakura’s infectious spirit. This bittersweet anime explores themes of mortality, love, and the profound impact one person can have on another.
06. Wolf Children
Score: 8.7/10
Wolf Children is the heartwarming yet melancholic tale of Hana, a single mother raising two children who are half-human, half-wolf. After the death of their father, Hana faces the challenges of raising her children while they struggle with their unique identities. The series beautifully explores the complexities of family, love, and acceptance, all while depicting the growth and self-discovery of both the children and their mother.
05. Made in Abyss
Score: 8.9/10
Made in Abyss follows Riko, an orphan girl who dreams of becoming a Cave Raider like her mother, who disappeared while exploring the Abyss. Along with a robot boy named Reg, Riko descends into the Abyss, encountering strange creatures and deadly dangers. The anime’s adorable art style contrasts sharply with the dark and tragic nature of the story, making it a gripping tale of adventure, mystery, and sorrow.
04. Your Lie in April
Score: 8.9/10
Your Lie in April revolves around Kosei Arima, a former piano prodigy who loses his ability to play after his mother’s death. His life is turned upside down when he meets Kaori Miyazono, a lively violinist who reintroduces him to the world of music. Their bond deepens as they inspire each other to confront their pasts. This beautiful blend of music, love, and personal growth makes it a must-watch for those who appreciate emotionally resonant stories.
03. Clannad: After Story
Score: 9/10
In Clannad: After Story, the emotional rollercoaster continues as Tomoya Okazaki navigates life after high school, facing the trials of adulthood, family, and love. This sequel to Clannad dives deeper into themes of maturity, loss, and the hardships of life, particularly through Tomoya’s evolving relationship with Nagisa Furukawa. It’s a heartwarming yet gut-wrenching story that perfectly balances light-hearted moments with profound emotional depth.
02. Steins;Gate
Score: 9.1/10
Steins;Gate is a brilliant fusion of science fiction and tragic romance. The story follows Rintarou Okabe, a self-proclaimed mad scientist, who accidentally invents a time-traveling device. As he and his friends meddle with the fabric of time, they begin to face the consequences of their actions. This deeply emotional tale of love, sacrifice, and the consequences of tampering with fate will leave you questioning the very nature of time itself.
01. Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood
Score: 9.2/10
Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood tells the epic story of two brothers, Edward and Alphonse Elric, who commit the taboo of attempting to bring their mother back to life through alchemy, only to suffer devastating consequences. Edward loses a limb, and Alphonse’s soul is bound to a suit of armor. The brothers embark on a journey to find the Philosopher’s Stone to restore their bodies, all while unraveling a larger conspiracy. This emotionally powerful anime combines action, deep philosophy, and unforgettable characters, making it a masterpiece in every sense.
Dev King is a passionate fan of manga, manhwa, and webtoons, with a love for Korean, Japanese, and Chinese cartoons. Always exploring new worlds and stories, he finds joy in every unique style and plot twist.
