Presents: The Ultimate Dark Fantasy Anime of the 1990s

Dark Fantasy is a highly popular subgenre in literature known for its grim and blood-soaked themes. It often delves into scary and disturbing elements, sometimes blurring the line between Horror and Fantasy. In this article, we will explore some of the best Dark Fantasy anime from the 90s and what sets them apart.

But first, let’s define what a subgenre is. In literature, genres can be broken down into various categories, and many of these categories exist within primary genres that have been mixed with others. Dark Fantasy is an example of this, as it combines elements of Fantasy with horror to create a unique and captivating storytelling experience.

Dark Fantasy has gained a significant following across all forms of pop culture, including anime. In fact, many 90s anime series fall under the Dark Fantasy genre. These shows have captivated audiences with their dark and intense narratives, making them must-watch for fans of the genre.

Berserk

One standout series is Berserk, which is often hailed as a perfect example of Dark Fantasy storytelling. The protagonist, Guts, is a legendary swordsman known as The Black Swordsman. The series follows his journey as he joins a group of mercenaries called the Band of the Hawk and rises through their ranks. Berserk is known for its brutal and disturbing scenes, with visceral violence that leaves a lasting impact on viewers.

Now and Then, Here and There

Another notable Dark Fantasy anime from the 90s is Now and Then, Here and There. This series combines elements of post-apocalyptic, sci-fi, Isekai, and Fantasy genres to create a multi-genre experience. While it may appear cute at first glance, it delves into dark and heavy themes such as slavery, child exploitation, and implied graphic content. Now and Then, Here and There has received praise for its masterful storytelling and top-notch voice acting.

Ninja Scroll

Ninja Scroll is another 90s anime that falls within the Dark Fantasy genre. Set during the Tokugawa Shogunate, this film follows Jubei, a Ronin/Mercenary Ninja, as he battles demons and devils. Ninja Scroll is known for its action-packed graphic violence and gloomy atmosphere, making it a perfect example of Dark Fantasy.

Record of Lodoss War

Record of Lodoss War is a classic 90s anime that combines elements of Sword and Sorcery with Dark Fantasy. The series follows Parn, the son of a disgraced knight, as he embarks on quests against evil warlords, monsters, and demonic possessions. While it has grim themes, Record of Lodoss War balances them with colorful environments and a larger love story.

Princess Mononoke

Princess Mononoke, directed by Hayao Miyazaki and animated by Studio Ghibli, is a blockbuster film that blends Fantasy with Historical Fiction and Dark Fantasy. The story revolves around Ashitaka, a prince cursed by a demon, as he embarks on a journey to find a cure. Princess Mononoke features brutal scenes of violence and explores malevolent supernatural entities, making it a compelling Dark Fantasy film.

BASTARD!!

Lastly, Bastard!! is an entirely Dark Fantasy anime set in a dystopian world. It follows the story of Dark Schneider, an evil wizard who possesses a young boy. Bastard!! incorporates elements of pop culture and heavy metal music, giving it a unique and entertaining twist.

In conclusion, Dark Fantasy is a captivating subgenre that blends elements of Fantasy with darker themes and atmospheres. The 90s produced some exceptional Dark Fantasy anime series and films that continue to be beloved by fans today. These shows and movies offer intense storytelling, excessive violence, moral ambiguity, and occasionally feature anti-hero characters. If you’re a fan of Dark Fantasy, these 90s anime are definitely worth checking out.