Why do you watch animes? Perhaps to get a good laugh or thrilled by the action, right? But what if you simply just want to release your tension as you watch some of these shows? Here are the saddest animes that can really make you cry. Get your tissues ready!
‘Grave Of The Fireflies’ (1988)
Many anime critics and reviewers agree that “Grave of the Fireflies” is the most heartbreaking anime ever created. Its production studio, Studio Ghibli, takes a different approach from its usual heartwarming animes.
“Grave of the Fireflies” is a tragic story of a young boy and his little sister trying to make ends meet in a war-torn Japan during the Second World War.
Anime critics also consider this show one of the greatest war animes ever produced. And, did we mention this anime is also based on real-life events?
‘Madoka Magica’ (2011)
Created by Magica Quartet and animated by Shaft, “Madoka Magica” is also known as “Puella Magi Madoka Magica.” Its story follows a group of middle school girls led by Madoka Kaname, the main protagonist, as she makes contracts with supernatural elements so she and her group can turn into magical girls. Together, they battle surreal enemies known in the story as “witches,” and learn the anguish and peril associated with those magical responsibilities.
Interestingly, its final episodes were delayed because of the Tōhoku earthquake and tsunami, which made things even sadder.
‘A Silent Voice’ (2016)
“A Silent Voice” has one of the greatest anime stories ever thought of. If you are looking for an emotional joyride, you should watch this.
It tells the story of Shouko Nishimiya, a deaf girl bullied by her classmate. The girl decides to leave after the guy’s constant bullying. The bully, Shouya Ishida, then receives cold shoulders from his schoolmates because of his unpleasant behavior. Later on, he realizes his mistakes and seeks absolution.
The anime vividly tackles the themes of bullying, depression, and anxiety – concepts that are plaguing the world today. You will also indeed love its climax, which will undoubtedly improve your mood.
‘Toradora!’ (2008)
Another anime that can make you shed tears is “Toradora!” Based on a light novel series by Yuyuko Takemiya and Yasu, “Toradora!” has a weird title. Well, it is actually derived from the names of the story’s two main characters and their names’ meanings.
First, there’s Taiga Aisaka, whose name almost sounds like “taigā” or “tiger,” which is synonymous with the native Japanese word “tora.” Then, there’s Ryūji Takasu, whose name has “ryū,” meaning “dragon,” which, if read by the Japanese, would sound like “doragon.” Hence, “toradora.”
The story of this anime revolves around Tasaku, who, despite his gentle personality, is actually suggesting intimidating and delinquent attributes to other people. During his second high school year, class rearrangements in school put him with his best friend, Yusaku Kitamura, and his crush, Minori Kushieda.
‘I Want to Eat Your Pancreas’ (2018)
Yes, you are reading that right. What an interesting title, right? Actually, some avid fans might point out that “I Want to Eat Your Pancreas” is a rom-com anime. It is true, so why is it included on this list?
Well, the drama unfolds with a sudden twist toward the end. The protagonist, Haruki Shiga, is introverted and leads a secluded life. One day, he stumbles upon his classmate’s secret diary, changing their lives forever.
This perfect pairing captivates every viewer completely, not to mention the exquisite bond that exists between them. The simplicity of its story is what makes it genuinely moving.
‘Wolf Children’ (2012)
Perhaps nothing could be more doleful than a mother-and-child story – such as “Wolf Children.” This anime drama film, directed and co-written by Mamoru Hosoda, centers on the “parent and child” theme, depicting 13 years in the life of Hana, a young woman who falls in love with a werewolf back in her college days.
However, her husband died, so she must raise her half-wolf, half-human children, Yuki and Ame. It is a tale of a mother’s relationship with her children as she guides them in finding and carving their own paths in life.
‘Tokyo Magnitude 8.0’ (2009)
The title itself can give you an idea of how saddening this anime is. “Tokyo Magnitude 8.0” is set amidst a shattering earthquake that rocked Tokyo. Mirai Onozawa, a 13-year-old student, was then traveling with her younger brother, Yuuki, to a robot exhibit far from their home.
These two kids were left stranded in the devastated city. Fortunately, they met Mari Kusakabe, a motorcyclist, who decided to help these poor kids. Now, the three of them must survive amid the chaos brought by the earthquake and the longing to reunite with their families once again.
Stories set in the middle of a tragedy are truly heartbreaking. “Tokyo Magnitude 8.0” conveyed emotions from something that happens in real life without going over the top.
‘Kotaro Lives Alone’ (2021)
As you begin watching “Kotaro Lives Alone,” you may wonder if this anime is really a tearjerker. But, the anime escalates and steadily starts to pluck at the audience’s heartstrings as they move forward watching it.
Based on a manga series by Mami Tsumura, “Kotaro Lives Alone” tells the story of Kotaro Satо̄, a four-year-old boy who lives independently but later moves into a different apartment next door to a manga artist named Shin Karino. The story is inspiring and can make you cry.
‘Violet Evergarden’ (2018)
“Violet Evergarden” is an anime that doesn’t disguise itself as a comedy piece, as it is an emotional tale from start to finish. Its plot revolves around Violet Evergarden, the protagonist and titular character.
After the war was over, she secured a new job as an auto memory doll in a postal service. She embarked on a journey to assist others by writing letters that captured their ideas and feelings. Her goal was not only to understand herself and the world around her but also her emotions.
From an anime that tells a mother-and-child story to an anime that centers on themes of bullying and depression, you’ve learned about some of the saddest animes ever created. Go ahead and watch them, and don’t be afraid to shed your tears.
