10 Must-Watch Zombie Anime in 2023

The popularity of zombie-themed anime has been on the rise in recent years, offering a thrilling blend of horror and action within the realm of animation. These anime series feature imaginative and compelling storylines centered on survival against the undead, character growth, and thought-provoking explorations of human nature.

In this article, we highlight the top 10 highest-rated and most buzzed-about zombie anime that should be on your must-watch list for 2023. Whether you're a die-hard anime enthusiast or a casual viewer, this list covers beloved classics such as Highschool of the Dead, as well as recent hits like Zombieland Saga, ensuring there's something for everyone to enjoy.

Disclaimer: This article reflects the writer's opinion and is not ranked in any particular order.

Best zombie anime series you can't miss

1. Highschool of the Dead

Highschool of the Dead (Image via Madhouse)

Highschool of the Dead is considered one of the top zombie anime series, set in a modern-day Japan where a group of high school students are fighting to survive a sudden zombie outbreak. It's an exhilarating and intense show, featuring a mix of fan service and stylish action scenes. The series strikes a good balance between zombie horror, ecchi elements, drama, and character growth, with polished animation and visuals that bring the zombie action to life.

2. Zombieland Saga

Highschool of the Dead has faced criticism for its focus on fanservice, but it cannot be denied that it is a modern classic in the genre of zombie anime. For fans of Ecchi who are open to over-the-top moments, this anime is a binge-worthy option.

Zombieland Saga (Image via MAPPA)

Zombieland Saga is a one-of-a-kind idol anime with a quirky zombie twist, in stark contrast to Highschool of the Dead. The plot revolves around a man who resurrects seven deceased girls as zombies and persuades them to form an idol group in the rural Saga prefecture.

Zombieland Saga may seem ridiculous at first glance, with its unusual combination of zombies and Japanese idols. However, the show quickly reveals a heartwarming story of passion, determination, and the pursuit of dreams despite the odds. The characters are charming, the comedy is top-notch, and the musical numbers are catchy, making it a surprisingly delightful zombie anime.

3. School-Live!

School-Live! (Image via Lerche)

If you're after unconventional zombie tales in anime, then you'll want to check out School-Live! Featuring a cute moe art style and schoolgirl characters, it may seem like a typical slice-of-life at first glance. But as the story unfolds, it becomes clear that there's something much darker lurking beneath the surface.

In School-Live!, a group of girls appear to be enjoying a carefree life at their boarding school, all while a zombie apocalypse unfolds outside. However, the real emotional depth lies with the main character, Yuki, who is struggling with psychological trauma and refuses to acknowledge the grim reality of their situation.

The anime switches back and forth between the harsh reality of the zombie outbreak and Yuki’s idealized perspective where nothing is wrong. This creates surprising contrast and powerful emotional moments. It presents a psychological approach to zombies that can be quite impactful if you stay with it beyond the initial lighthearted facade.

4. Kabaneri of the Iron Fortress

Kabaneri of the Iron Fortress (Image via Wit Studio)

Kabaneri of the Iron Fortress offers stunning animation and a thrilling steampunk zombie storyline that will captivate fans. Set in an industrial fantasy world reminiscent of Japan’s Edo period, the show follows humanity's struggle against the undead Kabane threat.

The story revolves around survivors seeking safety in moving fortresses while fleeing from hordes of Kabane. Protagonist Ikoma, infected but managing to resist becoming a full Kabane, becomes a defender of a train carrying refugees. The result is a captivating blend of thrilling action, endearing characters, and stunning visuals.

With top-notch production quality and gripping drama comparable to popular zombie movies, Kabaneri of the Iron Fortress seems to be anime's answer to the widespread zombie frenzy. The concise 12-episode series also makes it perfect for a quick binge-watch.

5. Gyo: Tokyo Fish Attack

Gyo: Tokyo Fish Attack (Image via Ufotable)

Gyo: Tokyo Fish Attack is an unusual addition to this list, as it is a unique zombie film directed by Takayuki Hirao. In the movie, fish gain the ability to walk on mechanical legs and invade the land, causing chaos and a foul odor to disrupt life.

Based on Junji Ito's horror manga, the OVA effectively captures his disturbing imagery and psychological tension. The strange occurrences and body horror elements emphasize the zombie threat. Despite its unconventional concept, Gyo's top-notch direction and creepy visuals make it a fascinating, albeit unsettling, watch.

6. Corpse Princess

Fans of Junji Ito's distinct brand of eerie horror will find enjoyment in this one-of-a-kind zombie anime. While it may leave some viewers perplexed, the nightmarish visuals are sure to linger in their minds for quite some time.

6. Corpse Princess

Corpse Princess (Image via Feel and Gainax)

Alternatively known as Shikabane Hime, Corpse Princess is a thrilling anime series centered on action and zombies, showcasing captivating undead girls battling against the undead. Taking place in contemporary Japan, the recently deceased Makina Hoshimura is revived as a Shikabane Hime. Utilizing her enhanced strength and expertise, this undead being combats other undead threats to society.

Despite the initial skepticism due to its seemingly absurd concept of scantily-clad zombie girls, Corpse Princess actually delivers a compelling plot and mythology. With stylish action scenes featuring Makina and her dual MAC-11 machine pistols, the anime offers plenty of engaging content. While it may include some typical anime tropes aimed at otaku and elements of tragedy, Corpse Princess is a solid choice for fans of zombie anime looking for gun battles and assassin themes within the undead world.

7. Sankarea: Undying Love

Sankarea: Undying Love (Image via Studio Deen)

Sankarea: Undying Love is a romantic comedy series with a unique zombie twist. The story revolves around Chihiro Furuya, a high schooler who is infatuated with zombie girls and attempts to bring his dead cat back to life. Instead, he accidentally resurrects the lonely rich girl Rea Sanka after she commits suicide.

The series portrays the endearing and unconventional relationship between Chihiro and zombie Rea, as well as the efforts of other characters to find a cure for her undead condition. With its stunning animation, comedic scenarios, and engaging characters, Sankarea offers a heartwarming take on zombie romance.

8. Highschool of the Dead: Drifters of the Dead

Their connection strengthens as Chihiro attempts to conceal Rea's special condition from his intrusive cousin and a sinister monk who is determined to uncover the truth behind Rea's resurrection. The two social outcasts take comfort in each other's presence. Sankarea expertly weaves together zombie horror with heartfelt and touching moments.

Highschool of the Dead: Drifters of the Dead (Image via Madhouse)

Highschool of the Dead: Drifters of the Dead serves as an OVA sequel to the original series. The main cast of the zombie anime series encounters unusual phenomena on a deserted island they've drifted to following a zombie attack.

The discovery of a strange marijuana plant on the island leads to a surge of fanservice and heightened sexual tension among the characters. This comedic interpretation of the Highschool of the Dead characters will delight fans, despite not advancing the main story. It captures the series' signature ecchi zombie action in a lighter, more playful manner.

9. Resident Evil: Infinite Darkness

Resident Evil: Infinite Darkness (Image via TMS Entertainment)

Resident Evil: Infinite Darkness is a Netflix original CGI zombie anime series that is part of the popular Resident Evil game and film franchise. The show follows protagonists Leon S. Kennedy and Claire Redfield as they battle zombies. Set between the events of Resident Evil 4 and Resident Evil 5, the series follows Claire as she investigates a zombie outbreak at the White House, while Leon tracks down a hacking attempt into top-secret files related to biological weapons. The two storylines soon intertwine, revealing sinister government conspiracy plots and plenty of T-virus monstrosities trying to attack them.

10. Zom 100: Bucket List of the Dead

Fans of the franchise are hailing this new original story, which expands the series' lore while maintaining the beloved survival-horror tension that the IP is known for. The sleek CGI animation and faithful capture of the games' atmosphere also make this zombie-action thriller anime highly appealing to dedicated Resident Evil fans.

Zom 100: Bucket List of the Dead (Image via Bug Films)

Zom 100: Bucket List of the Dead, based on the manga series by Haro Aso, takes a more comedic approach to the zombie apocalypse. The story centers on Akira, a typical office worker who finds himself stuck in his company complex following a zombie outbreak.

After meeting survivors, Akira realizes that this may be his final opportunity to complete his personal bucket list before succumbing to death or full zombification. What ensues is a blend of comedy and everyday life as Akira covertly works to check off the items on his list, ranging from simple tasks like standing up to his boss to seeking out love.

Despite the absurd concept, Zom 100 delivers plenty of humor while also conveying a heartwarming message about discovering purpose in life, even in the midst of a crisis. The lighthearted approach, coupled with amusing zombie survival strategies and Akira's humorous behavior, makes this recent anime a charming choice amidst the typically dark nature of zombie narratives.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the world of zombie anime continues to evolve with fresh and creative approaches to the undead trend that has taken over mainstream media. With a wide variety of options available, including different themes, animation styles, settings, and tones, there are fantastic zombie anime series out there for everyone, from casual viewers to die-hard horror enthusiasts.

The aforementioned zombie anime series are just a taste of the diverse range of Japanese zombie animation. Whether you enjoy intense action, psychological drama, absurd comedy, or even pop idol zombies, there's something in the anime world for you. So, the next time you're in need of an escape into captivating, post-apocalyptic worlds filled with the living dead, make sure to explore these incredible series.

Editor's P/S

As a Gen Z fan, I am excited about the upcoming zombie anime in 2023. I grew up watching zombie movies and TV shows, and I am always looking for new and exciting content in this genre.

The 10 anime listed in this article look very promising, and I can't wait to check them out. I am particularly interested in Highschool of the Dead and Zombieland Saga. Highschool of the Dead looks like a classic zombie anime with plenty of action and gore, while Zombieland Saga looks like a more lighthearted and comedic take on the genre. I am also intrigued by School-Live!, which seems like it will be a psychological thriller with a zombie twist.

Overall, I am very excited about the future of zombie anime. These 10 anime look like they will offer something for everyone, and I can't wait to see what they have in store.