Forbidden Magic permeates almost every fantasy narrative, and anime is no exception to this ubiquitous trope. From necromancy to demonic pacts, protagonists get into the depths of darkness, forsaking morals in pursuit of power or to shield their cherished ones.
In many anime fantasies, certain truths are better left veiled—magic taboos not meant to be breached. Those treading the precarious line between light and shadow teeter on the brink of moral collapse, a single misstep away from descent.
The following roster spotlights anime characters deeply entwined with dark arts, some irreversibly consumed by their embrace, while others still cling to a glimmer of hope for redemption.
10. Slayers
Lina Inverse stands as an icon among Dark Magic users in the annals of anime history, her legendary exploits etched into the lore of the sword and sorcery genre. Yet, beneath the surface of her formidable power lies a perilous truth unknown even to her.
Unbeknownst to Lina, the magic she wields harbors a darkness far more profound than she could have fathomed. With each invocation of her signature Dragon Slave (Dragon Slayer) spell, she unwittingly taps into the boundless power of the Lord of Nightmares, a being of unparalleled danger lurking within the depths of the universe.
Blinded by her thirst for power, Lina heedlessly abuses this magic until the consequences become irreversible. Only then does she come to realize the true nature of her actions, confronted with the terrifying revelation that her very essence is entwined with the most perilous force in existence?
Slayers is a classic anime series that gained popularity in the 1990s and continues to have a dedicated fanbase. Created by Hajime Kanzaka, it’s set in a fantasy world where magic and monsters are commonplace.
The story follows Lina Inverse, a young and powerful sorceress, and her companions as they get on adventures, battling evil forces, uncovering ancient mysteries, and occasionally causing chaos wherever they go.
The series is known for its mix of action, comedy, and fantasy elements, as well as its vibrant characters. Lina Inverse herself is a memorable protagonist, known for her fiery personality, immense magical abilities, and insatiable appetite.
Alongside her are companions like the swordsman Gourry Gabriev, the shapeshifting chimera Zelgadis Greywords, and the pacifist priestess Amelia Wil Tesla Seyruun.
Slayers has spawned multiple seasons of anime, as well as movies, OVAs (original video animations), and light novels. Its enduring popularity is a testament to its entertaining storytelling and memorable characters. If you’re a fan of fantasy adventure with a healthy dose of humor, “Slayers” is definitely worth checking out!
9. The Irregular At Magic High School
Tatsuya enrolled in the Affiliated High School of Magic University to remain near his sister Miyuki, keeping a vigilant watch over her. Despite his outwardly calm demeanor, Tatsuya carries within him a ruthless and cold nature, a stark contrast to his tranquil facade.
Beneath his unassuming exterior lies a protagonist of formidable power. Tatsuya possesses Psionic abilities and magical prowess that far exceed those of his peers. Among his arsenal are extraordinary skills such as Decomposition, Elemental Sight, and Regrowth—forms of magic deemed lost or forbidden in his world.
“The Irregular at Magic High School,” also known as “Mahouka Koukou no Rettousei” in Japanese, is a light novel series written by Tsutomu Satou. It has been adapted into various media, including manga, anime, and a feature film.
Set in a world where magic is a recognized technology, the story follows siblings Tatsuya and Miyuki Shiba as they enroll in First High School, an institution for training magicians.
Tatsuya is a skilled but seemingly unremarkable magician, while Miyuki is considered a prodigy with exceptional magical abilities. Despite his perceived shortcomings, Tatsuya possesses unique skills and knowledge that make him a formidable force in combat magic.
The series finds themes of discrimination, social hierarchy, and political intrigue within a futuristic society where magic plays a central role. Tatsuya and Miyuki find through the challenges of school life while becoming embroiled in various conflicts and conspiracies, ultimately revealing Tatsuya’s true potential and the secrets surrounding his past.
The anime adaptation of “The Irregular at Magic High School” gained popularity for its action-packed scenes, intricate magic system, and complex political dynamics. Fans of magic-themed stories with elements of science fiction and action often find this series engaging and compelling.
8. Wise Man’s Grandchild
Shin Walford, nurtured by a pair of Wise Mages from a young age, received a thorough education in the art of magic, shaping him into a formidable spellcaster.
Despite retaining fragments of his previous life’s memories, Shin shed the confines of conventional wisdom upon reincarnating into a new world. Driven by an insatiable curiosity, he gets on a journey of spellcraft experimentation.
Through the fusion of his scientific acumen and magical prowess, Shin achieved a remarkable feat: the creation of a spell of unprecedented power and devastation.
However, the magnitude of its destructive force proved too perilous to wield. The spell’s potency was such that its usage resulted in the obliteration of the surroundings. Consequently, Shin found himself prohibited from ever employing it again, a testament to the perilous nature of his magical innovation.
“Wise Man’s Grandchild,” known as “Kenja no Mago” in Japanese, is a light novel series written by Tsuyoshi Yoshioka with illustrations by Seiji Kikuchi. It has also been adapted into manga and anime.
The story follows Shin Wolford, a young man who is reincarnated into a fantasy world after dying in a traffic accident in his previous life.
In this new world, he is adopted by the legendary swordsman Merlin Wolford and raised as his grandson. Renamed Shin, he grows up in isolation, unaware of his incredible magical potential and the ways of the world.
Despite his sheltered upbringing, Shin possesses extraordinary magical abilities and combat skills that far surpass those of ordinary people. As he enters the Magic Academy to learn about magic and the world around him, he quickly becomes renowned for his unmatched talent and strength.
“Wise Man’s Grandchild” combines elements of fantasy, magic, adventure, and humor. The series follows Shin as he forms friendships, faces various challenges, and confronts powerful enemies who threaten the peace of the kingdom. The anime adaptation received praise for its entertaining action scenes, lovable characters, and comedic moments.
Fans of fantasy anime with overpowered protagonists and a lighthearted tone often enjoy “Wise Man’s Grandchild” for its enjoyable blend of magic and adventure.
7. Konosuba
Kazuma Satō found himself whisked away to another world in the most underwhelming manner, a far cry from the ideal existence he had envisioned.
Frustrated by the stark disparity between his dreams and reality, Kazuma often finds himself engulfed in despondency, frequently venting his discontent by resisting his companions’ aspirations for adventure.
Yet, Kazuma’s disillusionment extends beyond mere moodiness, as he indulges in various acts of mischief. Notably, he gets into the forbidden arts, mastering a Dark Magic known as “Drain Touch.”
Unfettered by remorse, Kazuma employs this sinister magic on multiple occasions, even resorting to using it to antagonize his own companions. His willingness to embrace such forbidden powers underscores his complex nature, blurring the lines between mischief and malevolence in his pursuit of fulfillment in his newfound world.
“Konosuba,” short for “Kono Subarashii Sekai ni Shukuf*cku wo!” which translates to “God’s Blessing on This Wonderful World!”, is a popular light novel series written by Natsume Akatsuki. It has been adapted into manga, anime, and various other media.
The story follows Kazuma Satou, a shut-in teenager who dies in a rather embarrassing and comical way. After his death, he meets the goddess Aqua, who gives him the chance to be reincarnated in a fantasy world. Kazuma accepts the offer but soon realizes that life in this new world is far from what he expected.
Accompanied by Aqua and joined by other quirky companions he meets along the way, including the explosion-loving mage Megumin and the masoch*stic crusader Darkness, Kazuma gets on hilarious and often absurd adventures.
“Konosuba” is known for its comedic and satirical take on the isekai (another world) genre, often subverting common tropes and expectations. The series features a blend of fantasy, comedy, and occasional moments of heartfelt sincerity as the characters find their way through various challenges and encounters.
The anime adaptation of “Konosuba” received widespread acclaim for its humor, memorable characters, and witty dialogue. It has garnered a dedicated fanbase and multiple seasons, as well as spin-off material.
Fans of comedy and fantasy anime, especially those looking for a light-hearted and entertaining take on the isekai genre, often find “Konosuba” to be a delightful and enjoyable series.
6. Delicious In Dungeon
Beneath the seemingly benign surface of the fantasy realm of Delicious in Dungeon lies a hidden and ominous truth, concealed within the depths of the labyrinthine Dungeon where Laios, Marcille, Senshi, and Chilchuck get on their quest to rescue Falin.
Marcille reveals the enigma, believing that the ancient magic imbued within the Dungeon’s very stones holds forgotten knowledge once wielded by her ancestors, now shrouded in superstition and ignorance.
For enthusiasts of Delicious in Dungeon, these series intertwine elements of fantasy, culinary delights, and gripping action, crafting recipes for thrilling adventures.
When the pivotal moment to resurrect Falin arrives, Marcille hesitates not to employ the ancient magic, viewing it as the key to saving her companion. However, Chilchuck vehemently opposes this risky endeavor, acutely aware of the dire consequences that may accompany such recklessness.
“Delicious in Dungeon,” known as “Dungeon Meshi” in Japanese, is a manga series written and illustrated by Ryoko Kui. It has gained popularity for its unique blend of fantasy adventure, cooking, and humor.
The story follows a group of adventurers who go on a quest to find a vast and dangerous dungeon in search of treasure and to rescue one of their party members who has been eaten by a dragon.
However, they quickly run into trouble and find themselves low on supplies. To survive, they decide to cook and eat the monsters they encounter in the dungeon.
What sets “Delicious in Dungeon” apart is its focus on food and cooking within a fantasy setting. The manga features detailed recipes and cooking techniques for preparing various fantasy creatures, from giant frogs to golems, all with a comedic twist.
As the adventurers get deeper into the dungeon, they encounter new ingredients and cooking challenges, all while developing their culinary skills.
The series combines elements of fantasy adventure, comedy, and cooking, creating a unique and engaging reading experience. Fans of fantasy manga with a quirky and light-hearted tone, as well as those interested in cooking and culinary culture, often find “Delicious in Dungeon” to be a refreshing and enjoyable series.
5. High School DxD
Issei Hyoudou may stand as a formidable force in High School DxD, but the mantle of the most potent magic wielder belongs to Rias Gremory. Renowned for her mastery of the arcane arts, Rias gets into the realms of Dark Magic, particularly the ominous Discipline of Destruction.
This forbidden art, a treasured legacy within the Gremory lineage, wields such terrifying might that even the divine tremble at its potential. However, Rias exercises judicious restraint in its utilization, cognizant of the cataclysmic consequences it could unleash.
She reserves Destruction magic as a measure of last resort, fully aware of the unfathomable devastation it could wreak upon the world should it spiral out of control.
Rias’s sagacity and prudence serve as bulwarks against the unrestrained power she commands, ensuring that her mastery remains a force for safeguarding rather than annihilation.
“High School DxD” is a Japanese light novel series written by Ichiei Ishibumi and illustrated by Miyama-Zero. It has also been adapted into manga, anime, and various other media.
The story centers around Issei Hyoudou, a high school student who is killed by a fallen angel on his first date. However, he is revived by Rias Gremory, a top-class devil, as her servant. As a member of the occult research club at Kuoh Academy, Issei becomes involved in various supernatural conflicts between angels, fallen angels, and demons.
“High School DxD” is known for its blend of action, supernatural elements, and ecchi (erotic) content. The series features intense battles between powerful beings, often interspersed with comedic and risqué moments.
As Issei finds the world of devils and angels, he forms bonds with his fellow club members, including Rias Gremory, Akeno Himejima, and Asia Argento, while also facing off against dangerous enemies and uncovering the secrets of his own heritage.
The anime adaptation of “High School DxD” received attention for its action-packed scenes, colorful characters, and fan service elements. It has garnered a dedicated fanbase and multiple seasons, as well as OVAs (original video animations) and spin-off material.
Fans of supernatural action anime with elements of comedy and ecchi content often enjoy “High School DxD” for its entertaining blend of genres and its focus on intense battles and character relationships.
4. Fairy Tail
Gray Fullbuster possessed an exceptional talent for Ice-Make magic from a young age, establishing him as one of the most formidable elemental mages in the anime. However, his already impressive power surged to new heights upon inheriting his father’s legacy: Ice Devil Slayer Magic.
This formidable and shadowy magic is regarded as taboo by some, wielding immense power at the cost of grave consequences. When activated, Ice Devil Slayer Magic empowers Gray, enabling him to consume all Ice-type magic in his vicinity, akin to Natsu’s manipulation of flames.
Yet, the use of this potent magic takes a toll. With each invocation, Gray risks losing control, potentially succumbing to the very demonic forces he seeks to vanquish.
“Fairy Tail” is a popular Japanese manga series written and illustrated by Hiro Mashima. It has also been adapted into an anime series, several films, OVAs (original video animations), and spin-off manga.
The story is set in the fictional world of Earthland, where magic is a common part of everyday life and various guilds of mages exist. The series follows the adventures of the Fairy Tail guild, particularly focusing on the adventures of its core members: Lucy Heartfilia, Natsu Dragneel, Gray Fullbuster, Erza Scarlet, and Happy the cat.
Natsu Dragneel, a dragon slayer wizard with the ability to harness fire magic, is on a quest to find his foster parent, a dragon named Igneel. Alongside his friends, he takes on various missions, battles powerful foes, and reveals mysteries while forging strong bonds of friendship and camaraderie.
“Fairy Tail” is known for its action-packed battles, colorful cast of characters, and themes of friendship, loyalty, and perseverance. The series finds the personal growth and development of its characters as they face numerous challenges and overcome adversity together.
The anime adaptation of “Fairy Tail” received widespread popularity for its vibrant animation, memorable soundtrack, and faithful adaptation of the manga’s storyline. It has garnered a large and dedicated fanbase worldwide, becoming one of the most iconic and beloved anime and manga series in the fantasy genre.
Fans of action-packed adventure anime with elements of magic and friendship often find “Fairy Tail” to be an engaging and enjoyable series with its blend of exciting battles, emotional moments, and comedic interludes.
3. The Eminence In Shadow
Cid Kagenou, also known as Shadow, possesses a formidable and singular brand of magic, granting him the ability to effortlessly lay waste to entire cities with a mere thought. This unparalleled power, dubbed “I Am Atomic,” serves as Shadow’s signature move, leaving devastation in its wake.
Driven by inscrutable motives, Shadow harbors a propensity for drawing the ire of all who dare to cross his path. His enigmatic persona often culminates in the activation of this forbidden and catastrophic magic, resulting in the annihilation of entire cities before he fades into obscurity once more.
What sets Shadow apart is his unnerving ease in invoking this perilous magic, treating its casting with a nonchalance that belies its profound destructive potential.
“The Eminence in Shadow,” known as “Kage no Jitsuryokusha ni Naritakute!” in Japanese, is a light novel series written by Daisuke Aizawa and illustrated by Touzai. It has also been adapted into manga.
The story follows Cid Kagenou, a young boy who is obsessed with the idea of becoming a shadowy mastermind, orchestrating events behind the scenes like the protagonists in his favorite novels, manga, and games. Despite lacking any remarkable abilities or resources, Cid is determined to fulfill his dream and become the ultimate shadow ruler.
After a series of unexpected events, Cid finds himself in possession of a mysterious power known as “The Eminence in Shadow,” which allows him to control shadows and manipulate reality. With his newfound abilities, Cid sets out to gather followers and establish his own secret organization, aiming to become the shadowy mastermind he has always idolized.
“The Eminence in Shadow” is known for its comedic take on the isekai (another world) genre, as well as its parody of typical fantasy and light novel tropes. The series features humorous situations, exaggerated characters, and absurd scenarios as Cid finds his way through his quest for supremacy from the shadows.
Fans of comedy and fantasy light novels with a satirical twist often find “The Eminence in Shadow” to be a refreshing and entertaining read, particularly if they enjoy stories that poke fun at clichés and conventions of the genre.
2. Solo Leveling
Following Sung Jinwoo’s brush with mortality, a remarkable power awakens within him, offering a glimmer of hope to save his ailing mother by ascending in rank and amassing funds for her medical care.
However, the true essence of his Second Awakening reveals itself as the sinister art of Necromancy—a forbidden magic granting him dominion over the realm of the dead. With this dark power at his disposal, Sung Jinwoo gains the ability to resurrect departed souls as shadowy entities, imbued with the same skills and strengths they possessed in life.
Driven by desperation and determination, Sung Jinwoo harnesses his newfound abilities to ascend to the ranks of a formidable Hunter. Yet, as his mastery over Necromancy deepens, he grapples with the staggering toll it exacts, a cost far weightier than he could have anticipated.
Solo Leveling is a South Korean web novel series written by Chu-Gong. It has gained immense popularity and has been adapted into a webtoon (digital comic) format, as well as receiving an official English translation.
The story is set in a world where portals have opened, allowing monsters to enter the human realm. In this world, some individuals possess the ability to level up and become stronger, known as “hunters.”
The protagonist, Sung Jin-Woo, is an E-rank hunter, widely considered to be the weakest among them. However, after a life-threatening incident in a dungeon, he discovers the ability to “level up” as a “player.”
With his newfound powers, Sung Jin-Woo gets on a journey of growth and self-discovery. He delves into dungeons, battles powerful monsters, and uncovers the secrets of his past. As he becomes stronger, he gradually rises through the ranks, transforming from a lowly hunter into a formidable force to be reckoned with.
Solo Leveling is known for its amazing story, intense action scenes, and dynamic character development. The webtoon adaptation is particularly praised for its stunning artwork and fluid action sequences. Fans of action-packed fantasy stories with elements of RPG (role-playing game) mechanics often find “Solo Leveling” to be a thrilling and addictive read.
1. Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood
Edward Elric and his younger brother, Alphonse, experienced the heartbreaking loss of their mother during their formative years. In the depths of their grief, Edward conceived a desperate plan—to employ the forbidden art of Human Transmutation Alchemy in an attempt to resurrect their beloved Trisha Elric.
Tragically, their pursuit of this forbidden magic led to dire consequences. Both brothers suffered the loss of vital parts of their bodies, with Alphonse bearing the brunt of the toll. However, Edward, through his resourcefulness, managed to bind Alphonse’s soul to a suit of armor, thus preserving his essence.
Though their decision plunged them into a maelstrom of suffering, the brothers found solace and resilience in their unwavering bond.
United in their shared anguish, they confronted the trials that beset them, emerging stronger and more resilient than before. Their journey stands as a testament to the enduring power of brotherhood in the face of adversity.
Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood is an anime series based on the manga “Fullmetal Alchemist” written and illustrated by Hiromu Arakawa. It was produced by Bones Studio and aired in 2009. The series is a faithful adaptation of the manga and is often regarded as one of the greatest anime of all time.
The story follows two brothers, Edward and Alphonse Elric, who use alchemy in a world where it is a practiced science. In an attempt to bring their deceased mother back to life using alchemy, they commit the taboo of human transmutation.
This results in Edward losing his left leg and Alphonse losing his entire body. In a desperate move, Edward sacrifices his right arm to bind Alphonse’s soul to a suit of armor.
Determined to restore their bodies, the brothers get on a journey to find the Philosopher’s Stone, a legendary alchemical artifact said to amplify the abilities of alchemists. Along the way, they uncover a deep conspiracy involving the government, the military, and dark forces that threaten the entire nation of Amestris.
Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood is praised for its compelling story, well-developed characters, intricate world-building, and themes of sacrifice, redemption, and the consequences of war.
It also features stunning animation, memorable music, and intense action sequences. The series finds complex moral and ethical dilemmas while maintaining a perfect balance of drama, humor, and heart.
Fans of “Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood” often appreciate its deep narrative, rich symbolism, and exploration of human nature. It’s a must-watch for anyone interested in immersive storytelling and thought-provoking themes.
Honorable Mentions
Miyako Saitou
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