7 dark crime thrillers to binge before Delhi Crime Season 3

If the raw intensity and realism of Delhi Crime has captivated you, you’re not alone. Its gripping narrative, dark themes, and stellar performances have set a new standard for crime dramas.

With Season 3 premiering on November 13, 2025, now is the perfect time to explore other crime thrillers that combine gritty characters, tense investigations, and edge-of-your-seat suspense. Here’s a curated list of seven series to binge while you wait.

Also Read: 7 must-watch crime thrillers on JioHotstar that will keep you on the edge of your seat

1. Mandala Murders – Netflix

A compelling mix of crime, mystery, and thrill, Mandala Murders follows CIB agent Rea Thomas, who teams up with a suspended Delhi police officer to investigate a string of brutal killings. The case leads them to a centuries-old secret society, unraveling secrets and shocking truths along the way. With strong performances by Vaani Kapoor, Vaibhav Raj Gupta, Shriya Pilgaonkar, and Surveen Chawla, this series promises gripping suspense from start to finish.

2. Asur – JioHotstar

Asur is a psychological crime thriller blending forensic science with Indian mythology. A forensic expert turned teacher reunites with his mentor to assist the CBI in tracking a serial killer who claims to be the modern incarnation of the demon Kali. The investigation becomes a dangerous cat-and-mouse game, forcing the characters to confront their own inner demons. Barun Sobti and Arshad Warsi deliver intense performances in this dark and thought-provoking series.

3. Manvat Murders – SonyLIV

Set in the 1970s, Manvat Murders delves into the gruesome killings of seven women in a small town. Special Crime Branch officer Ramakant Kulkarni uncovers hidden motives and dark secrets within the community as he investigates the case. With Sai Tamhankar, Ashutosh Gowariker, Sonali Kulkarni, and Makarand Anaspure in key roles, the series combines suspense, period detail, and complex character dynamics for a chilling crime experience.

4. Sacred Games – Netflix

Sacred Games explores crime, survival, politics, and human relationships against the backdrop of Mumbai. Police inspector Sartaj Singh receives a cryptic warning from gangster Ganesh Gaitonde about a city-wide conspiracy. The unfolding events expose the underworld’s dark secrets and political corruption. Adapted from Vikram Chandra’s 2006 novel, the series marked Saif Ali Khan’s digital debut and remains a benchmark for Indian crime thrillers.

5. The Freelancer – JioHotstar

Adapted from Shirish Thorat's novel A Ticket to Syria, The Freelancer follows ex-police officer Avinash Kamath, who becomes a mercenary to rescue a friend’s kidnapped daughter from ISIS-controlled Syria. Packed with action and suspense, the series combines high-stakes missions with a gripping crime narrative, making it a thrilling watch for fans of edge-of-your-seat storytelling.

6. Dexter – JioHotstar, Amazon Prime Video

Set in Miami, Dexter follows forensic blood-spatter analyst Dexter Morgan, who secretly lives as a vigilante serial killer. Trained by his adoptive father to control his sociopathic tendencies, Dexter punishes only those who escape justice. Combining psychological depth with crime procedural elements, the show keeps viewers hooked with its dark moral dilemmas and suspenseful storytelling.

Also Read: Top 7 Bollywood comedy crime thrillers that promise laughter and chaos

7. Mindhunter – Netflix

Based on true events, Mindhunter chronicles two FBI agents specializing in criminal profiling. They interview serial killers to understand their motives, using insights to solve ongoing cases. Starring Jonathan Groff, Holt McCallany, and Anna Torv, the series offers a slow-burn, deeply psychological exploration of crime and human behavior, grounded in real-life investigative work.