Introduction: A Masterpiece That Begins Where Most Stories End In the bustling world of anime, where isekai invasions and battle shounen often dominate the spotlight, one series quietly emerged in 2024 and stole the hearts of millions. That anime is Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End — and its nomination for Anime of the Year 2025 feels not just appropriate, but inevitable. At first glance, this may seem like a typical fantasy adventure. But what makes Frieren exceptional is its starting point: not at the beginning of a grand journey, but at its end . The hero's party has already slain the Demon King. The celebrations are over. The journey is complete. Or is it? From the very first episode, Frieren sets itself apart by offering something anime rarely does — a reflective, post-quest story that slowly transforms into one of the most heartfelt, beautifully animated, and deeply human series we've seen in years. What Is Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End ? Frieren: Beyond Journey’s ...
Anime has long been a battleground for the eternal struggle between good and evil. More often than not, heroes triumph, and villains meet their well-deserved downfall. However, some anime dare to break convention by allowing the antagonists to claim victory. These dark and thought-provoking stories leave audiences stunned, proving that not all battles are won by the righteous. Below are ten anime where evil ultimately prevails, leaving an unforgettable impact on viewers.
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1. Devilman Crybaby – The Reign of Satan
Streaming on Netflix
One of the most emotionally devastating anime endings belongs to Devilman Crybaby. The series follows Akira Fudo, a kind-hearted teenager who merges with a demon to fight against the demonic invasion. Guided by his best friend Ryo, Akira embraces his Devilman identity, only to later discover that Ryo is actually Satan himself.
Despite Akira’s desperate efforts to save humanity, Ryo orchestrates an apocalyptic war that ultimately eradicates the human race. In the final moments, a devastated Ryo realizes his mistake, but it's too late—Earth is nothing but a wasteland, and Akira is dead. The cycle of destruction begins anew, making this one of the bleakest anime conclusions ever.
2. Berserk – Griffith’s Monstrous Betrayal
Streaming on Netflix
Few anime villains are as infamous as Griffith from Berserk. Initially a charismatic and ambitious leader, Griffith suffers unspeakable torture after being captured. With his dreams shattered, he makes a sinister pact, sacrificing his loyal comrades, the Band of the Hawk, in exchange for god-like power.
He ascends as Femto, a member of the demonic God Hand, and mercilessly violates Casca in front of Guts, cementing his inhuman transformation. Despite Guts’ efforts to seek revenge, Griffith’s dominance remains unchallenged, solidifying his place as one of anime’s most detestable villains who ultimately wins.
3. School Days – A Love Triangle Gone Horribly Wrong
Streaming on Crunchyroll
At first glance, School Days appears to be a typical romance anime, but it quickly spirals into something far darker. The story follows Makoto, a playboy who juggles multiple girlfriends, leading to jealousy and rage. His actions have dire consequences when Sekai, one of his lovers, snaps and murders him in cold blood.
However, the real horror unfolds when Kotonoha, another love interest, decapitates Makoto’s corpse and cradles his severed head. The anime’s haunting ending solidifies the complete collapse of morality among the characters, making it a story where darkness triumphs in a truly disturbing way.
4. Attack on Titan – Eren’s Devastating Victory
Streaming on Crunchyroll
Throughout Attack on Titan, Eren Yeager’s transformation from a hopeful soldier to a ruthless destroyer is one of anime’s most compelling character arcs. Convinced that the only way to secure freedom for his people is through mass genocide, he unleashes the Rumbling, wiping out 80% of humanity.
Though his friends ultimately stop him, his goal is largely fulfilled. The world is left in ruins, and the cycle of hatred persists. Eren’s ideology prevails, proving that even in death, his influence remains unshaken.
5. Mobile Suit Gundam: Iron-Blooded Orphans – Corruption Wins
Streaming on Hulu
Mikazuki and his allies fight tirelessly against the oppressive Gjallarhorn organization in Iron-Blooded Orphans, hoping to bring change. Despite their valiant sacrifices, the corrupt ruling powers remain intact. Rustal Elion, the main antagonist, manipulates the war to his advantage, ensuring his grip on the galaxy’s political landscape remains firm.
While the heroes perish in battle, Rustal solidifies his reign, proving that even in the face of revolution, the powerful often remain untouched.
6. Fate/Zero – A Hopeless War
Streaming on Crunchyroll
Fate/Zero tells the story of the Fourth Holy Grail War, where magicians and their heroic spirits compete for the ultimate wish-granting artifact. Kiritsugu, the protagonist, fights for an idealistic future but is ultimately betrayed by fate itself. The Holy Grail is revealed to be corrupt, and Kiritsugu’s sacrifices amount to nothing.
Meanwhile, the villainous Gilgamesh and Kotomine Kirei survive, setting the stage for even more chaos. This tragic conclusion cements Fate/Zero as one of the most disheartening entries in the Fate franchise.
7. JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure: Phantom Blood – Dio’s Survival
Streaming on Crunchyroll
Jonathan Joestar fights against his adoptive brother, Dio Brando, who becomes a vampire using a cursed mask. Though Jonathan seemingly defeats him, Dio’s severed head survives and later claims Jonathan’s body.
This eerie twist allows Dio to return in later parts of the series, proving that his evil influence cannot be vanquished so easily.
8. Cyberpunk: Edgerunners – The System Remains Supreme
Streaming on Netflix
David Martinez, the protagonist of Cyberpunk: Edgerunners, tries to fight against the corrupt mega-corporations ruling Night City. Despite his cybernetic enhancements, he ultimately succumbs to the overwhelming power of the system.
His death changes nothing—the corporations continue their tyranny, and Adam Smasher, the ruthless enforcer, remains unchallenged. The story’s grim conclusion highlights the harsh reality that some battles cannot be won.
9. Monster – Johan’s Psychological Reign of Terror
Streaming on Netflix
Johan Liebert, the enigmatic antagonist of Monster, is not a typical villain seeking world domination. Instead, he thrives on manipulating and psychologically tormenting his victims. Despite Dr. Tenma’s efforts to stop him, Johan vanishes, leaving behind an unsettling legacy of fear.
His disappearance fuels speculation that he is still alive, continuing his reign of terror from the shadows. Johan’s victory is not through brute force but through the psychological scars he leaves behind.
10. Hellsing Ultimate – The Major’s Eternal War
Streaming on Crunchyroll
The Major, the antagonist of Hellsing Ultimate, desires an eternal war, not for conquest but for the sheer joy of destruction. Though he is ultimately killed, his ideology survives. The devastation he unleashes ensures that conflict will persist long after his demise.
Even with Alucard’s survival, the world is forever changed, proving that The Major’s twisted vision of endless bloodshed has become a reality.
Final Thoughts
While most anime follow the conventional path of good triumphing over evil, these series subvert expectations by granting victory to the villains. Whether through psychological manipulation, brute force, or the collapse of morality, these antagonists prove that sometimes, darkness truly prevails. If you're looking for anime that challenge traditional storytelling and leave you contemplating long after the credits roll, these titles should be at the top of your watchlist.
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