Diabolik Lovers [Season 1 Episode 1 to Season 2 Episode 12 + OVA]

Diabolik Lovers: A Love-Hate Relationship with Vampires and Fans

If you’re into reverse harems with a dark twist, Diabolik Lovers might have been on your radar at some point. The anime, which aired from 2013 to 2015, follows Yui Komori, a naive girl who finds herself living with six sadistic vampire brothers—each with their own brand of crazy. The show is based on a popular otome game, and while it has its fair share of fans, the general consensus among viewers is… mixed, to say the least.

The Premise: Gothic Horror Meets Reverse Harem

Yui’s life takes a sharp turn when she moves into the Sakamaki mansion, home to the six vampire brothers: Shuu, Reiji, Ayato, Kanato, Laito, and Subaru. From the get-go, it’s clear that Yui is less of a guest and more of a plaything for these bloodthirsty siblings. The show blends gothic horror with reverse harem tropes, but instead of romance, it leans heavily into psychological and physical torment.

Fans of the genre might appreciate the aesthetic—dark, moody, and dripping with vampire lore—but the plot often feels like an excuse for the brothers to take turns terrorizing Yui. And while some viewers were hooked by the twisted dynamics, others couldn’t help but wonder: Why is this girl still here?

The Fan Reactions: A Rollercoaster of Emotions

Scrolling through discussions on MyAnimeList and other forums, it’s clear that Diabolik Lovers is a polarizing show. Here’s what fans had to say:

• The Good: Some viewers adored the voice acting (shoutout to the talented seiyuu cast) and the art style. The brothers’ designs are undeniably eye-catching, and moments like Ayato finally calling Yui by her name instead of “Bitch-chan” or “Pancake” had fans swooning.

• The Bad: Many criticized the lack of plot progression. One fan summed it up perfectly: “It’s just a clueless teenage girl thrown into a madhouse.” The constant blood-sucking scenes, while titillating for some, felt repetitive and unnecessary to others.

• The Ugly: The ending left many scratching their heads. Did Yui become a vampire? Was that a setup for a second season? Some fans speculated, while others were just relieved it was over. One user joked, “I’m so thirsty… Oh wait, the show’s done. What am I gonna do without the best anime of the decade? Oh wait.”

The Verdict: A Guilty Pleasure or a Waste of Time?

Diabolik Lovers isn’t for everyone. If you’re looking for deep character development or a coherent plot, this might not be your cup of tea (or blood). But if you enjoy over-the-top drama, pretty boys with questionable morals, and a heroine who somehow survives endless torment, you might find it oddly entertaining.

The show’s biggest strength is its ability to keep viewers hooked—whether out of genuine interest or sheer disbelief. As one fan put it, “It’s so bad that it’s beautiful.” And honestly? That’s the perfect way to describe Diabolik Lovers.

Would I recommend it? If you’re in the mood for something dark, dramatic, and a little ridiculous, give it a shot. Just don’t expect a masterpiece.

Final Rating: 6/10 (Points for aesthetics and voice acting, deducted for plot and pacing.)

What did you think of Diabolik Lovers? Love it, hate it, or just watched it for the vampires? Let me know in the comments!