It’s widely accepted among many that “Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba” stands as one of the finest anime productions of the past decade, and it’s likely that future generations will acknowledge its greatness and place it among the greatest anime ever made. Although contemporary anime series tend to be shorter than classics like “Dragon Ball,” “Bleach,” “Naruto,” or “One Piece,” which gives them a larger body of work, this only serves to make the success of “Demon Slayer” even more noteworthy. Thus, today’s article focuses on this remarkable show.
In today’s write-up, we’ve prepared a collection of 20 anime titles that share many similarities with “Demon Slayer”. Since the second season of “Demon Slayer” is yet to premiere, this list offers a sneak peek into some exciting anime, providing you with essential details about their storylines and why they mirror “Demon Slayer” in various aspects. If you’re a fan of “Demon Slayer” and eagerly anticipating fresh content, don’t miss out on these series!
1. D.Gray-man
From October 3rd, 2006 to September 30th, 2008, and also from July 4th, 2016 to September 26th, 2016, this series spans over a total of 116 episodes.
The genre of this series is adventure, dark fantasy, and science fiction.
As a passionate cinephile of all things anime, I’d say that “D. Gray-man” is a captivating shōnen manga penned by the talented Katsura Hoshino. This masterpiece was initially serialized in Weekly Shōnen Jump from May 2004 until April 2009, later moving to the monthly magazine Jump Square between November 2009 and December 2012 due to the author’s health concerns. After a hiatus of three years, the series was revived in the quarterly magazine Jump SQ.Crown from July 17, 2015.
An enthralling animated adaptation produced by TMS Entertainment graced our screens on TV Tokyo from October 3, 2006 to September 30, 2008. A 13-episode continuation, titled “D. Gray-man Hallow,” aired between July 4 and September 26, 2016.
The narrative centers around Allen Walker, a young exorcist, who’s part of a unique organization known as the Shadow Congregation. Their mission is to combat and annihilate beings called Akuma, along with their creator, the Millennial Count, whose ambition is to bring about the destruction of the world and humanity.
2. My Hero Academia
From April 3rd, 2016 to the present day, this series comprises a total of 110 episodes along with 5 additional OVAs. It falls under the genres of adventure, science fantasy, and superheroes.
Hero Academia” is a popular manga series, created both by the author Kōhei Horikoshi for the illustrations and the storyline. This captivating series has been published weekly since July 2014 in the Shūeisha magazine ‘Weekly Shonen Jump’. With thirty-one volumes already released, it continues to gain traction among readers worldwide. A television adaptation by studio Bones began airing on MBS in Japan and internationally from April 2016.
In a universe where an astounding 80% of Earth’s inhabitants possess extraordinary abilities, referred to as “Quirks”, we delve into the journey of Izuku Midoriya, or “Deku”, who is among the scant few born without such powers. Despite this handicap, Izuku harbors a fervent ambition to join the ranks of heroism at the prestigious superhero academy and ultimately ascend to become one of his era’s most illustrious heroes. On a momentous day, Izuku crosses paths with his lifelong idol, All Might, the undisputed number 1 superhero. In an extraordinary turn of events, All Might bestows upon Izuku his Quirk, One For All.
3. Fullmetal Alchemist
From the period spanning October 4, 2003, to October 2, 2004, I had the pleasure of following an incredible journey. This adventure-filled, dark fantasy series, with a unique steampunk twist, boasted an impressive run of 51 episodes! What a thrilling ride it was!
Fullmetal Alchemist is a 51-episode Japanese animated TV series, derived from the manga of the same name by Hiromu Arakawa. Originally broadcast in Japan from October 4, 2003 to October 2, 2004, it follows the story of brothers Edward and Alphonse Elric who possess alchemical abilities they inherited from their absentee father.
After their mother’s passing, two siblings attempt to bring her back through alchemy, defying the rule against human transmutation. Unfortunately, this attempt is unsuccessful and they both face the consequences – Al vanishes and Ed loses a leg but manages to save his brother by transferring his spirit into a suit of medieval armor using alchemical magic, which requires him to give up an arm.
Afterward, Ed sits for the examination to become a State Alchemist, which allows him to journey in search of the Philosopher’s Stone. His ultimate goal is to use this stone to restore the bodies of himself and his brother.
4. Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood
From April 5th, 2009 to July 4th, 2010, this show spanned a total of 64 episodes. It falls under the genres of adventure, dark fantasy, and steampunk.
In the realm of Amestris, where alchemy is considered a top-tier academic discipline, brothers Edward and Alphonse Elric journey across the nation in pursuit of the mythical Philosopher’s Stone. Their father abandoned them, and their mother, Trisha Elric, passed away from an illness some years later, leaving behind her two young offspring.
At some point later on, the two brothers attempt to resurrect her using alchemy, disregarding a law that bans human transmutation. Their defiance comes with severe consequences: Edward, the eldest, loses his left leg, while his younger brother suffers the ultimate price – losing his entire body. In an act of sacrifice, Ed seals the soul of his brother Alphonse within armor by giving up his right arm.
At twelve years old, Edward joins the military under the role of a State Alchemist and excels in his examinations, earning him the title Fullmetal. Leveraging his status as a state alchemist, Edward and his brothers embark on a perilous journey to recover a stone that could restore what they have lost. However, the secret behind the Philosopher’s Stone remains shrouded in mystery.
5. Re:Zero − Starting Life in Another World
The show aired from April 4, 2016 to March 24, 2021, spanning a total of 50 episodes. It falls under the genres of adventure, dark fantasy, and “isekai.
The narrative unfolds around Subaru Natsuki, a man living idle life, who unexpectedly ends up in an alternate reality during an evening grocery run. Following his bewilderment, he is rescued from a band of ruffians by a half-elf with silver tresses, whom she presents as Emilia. Moved by her plight, he decides to aid her in recovering a precious locket that was taken from her and holds significant sentimental value. Eventually, they locate the thief’s hideout deep within the city’s impoverished district.
In a chilling turn of events, I, an intruder, venture into a home, only to stumble upon a man lying in a pool of blood. Before I can comprehend what’s happening, I’m struck down by an unseen figure – a woman named Emilia, who had been lurking outside all along, growing suspicious of the commotion within. Strangely enough, she too meets her end at the hands of this mysterious assailant. As my life ebbs away, I vow to rescue Emilia from whatever fate awaits her.
6. Black Clover
Original run: October 3, 2017 – March 30, 2021
Number of episodes: 170
Genre: Adventure, fantasy
Black Clover is a popular manga series created and illustrated by Yuki Tabata. It’s been serialized weekly since February 16, 2015, in the renowned magazine Weekly Shonen Jump. The Japanese publishing company Shueisha has collected these chapters into bound volumes.
Black Clover chronicles the journey of Asta, a resilient young lad sharing an orphanage life with his longtime friend, Yuno, in the realm of the Clover Kingdom. Since their early days, Asta’s dream has been to attain the highest rank of power within the kingdom as the “Emperor-Mage.” This aspiration was reciprocated by Yuno, who also harbored similar ambitions. However, fate played a cruel trick on Asta as he was born devoid of magical abilities, while Yuno was blessed with remarkable ones. Despite their contrasting talents, both Asta and Yuno make a solemn pact to strive towards claiming the title of the Emperor Mage.
On the Knight-Mage path, although they part ways, their ultimate objective remains unchanged – attaining the title of the future Emperor-Mage.
7. Goblin Slayer
Original run: October 7, 2018 – present
Number of episodes: 12
Genre: Dark fantasy
In an imaginative realm where one’s destiny hinges on the throws of divine dice, individuals from far-off lands flock to the Adventurers’ Guild in pursuit of riches and renown.
A greenhorn priestess newly inducted into the Guild teams up with a band of beginner adventurers, but their initial mission spirals into a horrific ordeal when almost all of her comrades are brutally killed by goblins. Miraculously escaping death herself, she can attribute her survival solely to an enigmatic man in armor – the “Goblin Slayer”, a seasoned adventurer whose sole purpose is the annihilation of these monstrous beings.
8. Fairy Tail
Original run: October 12, 2009 – September 29, 2019
Number of episodes: 328
Genre: Adventure, fantasy
The narrative primarily revolves around a particular Fairy Tail guild team, consisting of Natsu Dragnir (a fire dragon slayer), Lucy Heartfilia (a constellation reader), and Happy (an Exceed, a blue cat-like creature capable of growing wings, flying, and talking). Later on, Erza Scarlett (a knight mage) and Gray Fullbuster (an ice mage who later becomes an Ice demon hunter) – two other esteemed members of the guild – will also be part of this team.
Additionally, Carla (resembling Happy, an extraordinary white feline), Wendy (a dragon slayer from Heaven), and numerous others, embark on this journey with them.
9. Bleach
Original run: October 5, 2004 – March 27, 2012
Number of episodes: 366
Genre: Adventure, supernatural
Bleach” is a popular animated television series, stemming from the manga written by Tite Kubo, which was serialized in Weekly Shonen Jump starting in 2001. The show consists of 366 episodes, each lasting 25 minutes, and was produced by Studio Pierrot under the direction of Noriyuki Abe in 2004. It initially aired from October 5, 2004 to March 27, 2012 on TV Tokyo in Japan.
The narrative unfolds as Ichigo Kurosaki embarks on his journeys, gaining the abilities of a Shinigami, which is akin to the Grim Reaper. These new abilities compel him to assume responsibilities such as protecting humans from malevolent spirits and escorting deceased souls to their afterlife, under the guise of Rukia Kuchiki.
10. Berserk
Original Run: October 7, 1997 to March 31, 1998; July 1, 2016 to June 23, 2017
Episodes: 25 episodes (Season 1) and 24 episodes (Season 2)
Genres: Fantasy with a Dark Theme, Epic, Sword and Magic
Or:
Original Air Dates: October 7, 1997 – March 31, 1998; July 1, 2016 – June 23, 2017
Episode Count: 25 episodes (Season 1) and 24 episodes (Season 2)
Genre Categories: Dark Fantasy, Epic Adventure, Swordplay and Sorcery
Or:
Original Run: October 7, 1997 – March 31, 1998; July 1, 2016 – June 23, 2017
Number of Episodes: 25 episodes (Season 1) and 24 episodes (Season 2)
Genre Classifications: Dark Fantasy, Epic, Swordplay, Magic
In an alternate Middle Ages, Guts is a powerful mercenary swordsman who’s only known a life filled with war and brutality. Later on, he develops profound connections with Griffith, feels affection and camaraderie for his newfound allies for the first time, and finds himself falling in love with Caska.
The epic confrontation between Griffith and Emperor Ganishka ultimately reshapes the world by merging the spiritual and physical realms. With Charlotte’s wedding and the approval of both the Pope and the populace, Griffith gains control of his new city, Falconia, and turns it into a harmonious utopia shielded from the monsters that are now threatening the globe.
11. Dororo
The original timeline spans from April 6, 1969, to September 28, 1969. There are a total of 26 episodes in this series, falling under the genres of action, dark fantasy, and historical fantasy.
Dororo is an animated series that originated from the manga by Osamu Tezuka and was produced by Mushi Production, airing on Fuji TV from April 6, 1969 to September 28, 1969. This animation is an adaptation of the original Dororo manga that came out in the 1960s. The story takes place during the Sengoku era and revolves around Hyakkimaru, a young man whose body was given to 48 demons at birth by having his 48 body parts removed.
In truth, his father entered into an agreement with them to gain powers, then left behind his son who was raised by a physician instead. This caregiver equipped Hyakkimaru with prosthetic body parts, some of which functioned as weapons; for example, his artificial arms concealed swords. Since his natural sight, hearing, and other senses were taken from him, the young man developed extraordinary abilities that enabled him to protect himself against demons.
12. Sword Art Online
From July 8, 2012 to December 23, 2012, and from July 5, 2014 to December 20, 2014, as well as from October 7, 2018 to September 20, 2020, the series consisted of a total of 96 episodes. This genre falls under Adventure and Science Fiction.
In the year 2022, I find myself immersed in an extraordinary world: the launch of “Sword Art Online”, a VRMMORPG unlike any other. This game transcends conventional boundaries as it allows players to manipulate their digital avatars with a degree of realism that’s almost uncanny – all thanks to the NerveGear, a high-tech virtual reality headset that mirrors the sensations we feel in our physical bodies by stimulating our five senses directly through our brains.
Players discover they’re unable to leave the game; soon after, the game’s creator, Akihiko Kayaba, emerges and discloses that death within the virtual world will also result in real-world demise. Moreover, he unveils that the only way to exit the game is by conquering one hundred levels of it first.
In the midst of their challenging circumstances, duo Kazuto Kirigaya and Asuna Yuuki remain resolute, aiming for victory and freedom.
13. Ushio and Tora
The original timeframe was from September 11, 1992 to October 1, 1993, and then July 3, 2015 to June 24, 2016. There were a total of 11 episodes in the first run and 39 episodes in the second. The genre falls under adventure, dark fantasy, and supernatural categories.
This series ran from September 11, 1992 to October 1, 1993, and again from July 3, 2015 to June 24, 2016. There were 11 episodes in the first season and 39 in total. The genre includes adventure, dark fantasy, and supernatural elements.
The series titled “Ushio and Tora” is a popular Japanese manga, penned and illustrated by Kazuhiro Fujita. It was serialized in Shogakukan’s “Weekly Shonen Sunday” from 1990 to 1996, eventually collected into thirty-three volumes known as “tankōbon.” The original manga was later transformed into two OVA series (with a humorous episode) produced by Pastel between 1992 and 1993. In more recent years, the manga has been reimagined as an animated television series that aired from July 2015 to June 2016. This adaptation was produced by MAPPA and Studio VOLN.
One day, Ushio stumbles upon a monster hidden in his basement, the very creature that was speared centuries ago by one of his ancestors using the Lance of the Wild. This revelation is challenging for Ushio, as he had always doubted this family legend. However, he now realizes that the presence of this monster could be dangerous, as it has the ability to unleash malevolent energies, causing ghosts to materialize and attack everyone around!
Now, Ushio no longer has any other option; he must release the man-devouring beast, as it’s essential for him to use it to bring back order.
14. The Rising of the Shield Hero
Original run: January 9, 2019 – present
Number of episodes: 25
Genre: Dark fantasy, isekai
In a different realm, Naofumi Iwatani found himself transported alongside three other young men from an alternate Japan, destined to become the “Four Legendary Heroes.” Upon arrival, each of these heroes received their unique legendary gear. This marked the start of his solitary odyssey within this world.
15. InuYasha
The original series aired from October 16, 2000, to September 13, 2004, and had a brief continuation from October 3, 2009, until March 29, 2010. In total, there were 193 episodes, with 167 in the initial run and an additional 26 during the short-lived continuation. The show falls under the genres of adventure, fantasy, and romance.
The series was on TV from October 2000 to September 2004, then again briefly from October 2009 to March 2010. There were a total of 193 episodes, with most airing between 2000 and 2004, and the remaining ones in 2009-2010. The show is categorized as adventure, fantasy, and romance.
The storyline in InuYasha revolves around the escapades of a half-demon adolescent from contemporary Japan, a lecherous monk, a kitsune (fox spirit) demon, and an old demon slayer from the Sengoku era. Together, they embark on a quest to find every piece of the Sacred Jewel and prevent it from falling into the wrong hands, particularly Naraku.
Throughout the anime series, InuYasha wrestles with his conflicting desires – on one hand, he yearns for the Twin-Swords of Kamiyama (the Sacred Jewel), but on the other, he cherishes his feelings for Kagome. Interestingly, it’s his human traits that prove to be his greatest strength. This is highlighted when InuYasha reclaims the Tessaiga sword, a weapon that requires compassion and humanity to wield effectively.
The sword can be used effectively by a creature who shows empathy towards humans and strives to safeguard them. This ability was obtained when Inu no Taisho forged the sword with the intention of protecting Inuyasha’s mother.
16. YūYū Hakusho
From October 10, 1992 to December 17, 1994, this series spanned across 112 episodes. It belonged to the genres of adventure, martial arts, and the supernatural.
Fourteen-year-old Yusuke Urameshi is a troublemaker and fighter to the core. However, he demonstrates an unexpected act of heroism when he sacrifices himself to save a young boy from an accident. Remarkably, the child would have lived regardless of Yusuke’s intervention. Unbeknownst to the rulers of the afterlife, his selfless act creates complications.
He’s given a chance to return from the dead because he demonstrated his worthiness for it. Unbeknownst to him, he then takes on the role of an otherworldly detective, receiving abilities that aid him in his diverse missions, spanning both the human world and the spirit realm.
As a film enthusiast, I find myself entrusted by Botan, the soul’s guide, to resolve the predicament of my friend Kuwabara following his apparent demise. Guided by Enma Jr., the young lord of the Dark King, I embark on a mission to track down three malevolent beings – Goki, Hiei, and Kurama – who have made off with three artifacts from the netherworld: the Sword of Darkness, a mirror, and the Ball of Gaki.
17. Cells at Work!
Original run: The show aired from July 8, 2018 to February 27, 2021.
Number of episodes: There were 21 regular episodes plus a special one.
Genre: It’s a blend of Biology and Humor.
In a unique twist, the manga series “Cells at Work” is penned by Akane Shimizu, featuring anthropomorphic cells from the human body as its main characters – namely, a red blood cell and a white blood cell (leukocyte). These two protagonists often cross paths. This engaging series was serialized in Kōdansha’s “Monthly Shōnen Sirius,” a popular manga magazine for young male readers, from January 2015 to January 2021.
For the first time between July and September 2018, and then again between January and February 2021, a David Production-made animated TV series with 13 episodes was shown on television. An additional special episode was broadcast in December 2018. The series is based on anthropomorphic blood cells that inhabit the human body, depicted as an enormous industrial world. They work together to combat harmful microorganisms and bacteria that penetrate their bodies through the nose, mouth, or open wounds.
18. Phantom Thief Jeanne
Original run: February 13, 1999 – January 29, 2000
Number of episodes: 44
Genre: Magical girl
As the year 2000 draws near, Earth’s Kami-sama (God) finds His power weakened and faces mortality if He cannot regain sufficient strength before then. Anticipating this, the demonic Mahou dispatches his minions to gather energy, which is manifested as chess pieces, for their malevolent purposes.
16-year-old Maron Kusakabe, much like any other student, has an extraordinary ability: with the aid of her guardian angel Fin Fish, she can metamorphose into the reborn Joan of Arc. Instead of battling ordinary demons, however, these entities disguise themselves within works of art. Once a demon is vanquished, the artwork fades away and is replaced either by an angelic motif (in the manga) or as a chess piece (in the anime).
Maron’s closest companion is Miyako, the child of a policeman, who chases after Jeanne. However, Maron develops romantic feelings for Chiaki Nagoya, a person who secretly combats demons under the alias Kaitou Sinbad.
19. JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure
From October 6, 2012 to July 28, 2019, this series spanned a total of 152 episodes plus 4 additional specials. Genre-wise, it falls under adventure, fantasy, and supernatural categories.
The story primarily focuses on the Joestar family, a powerful British bloodline marked for battle against sinister supernatural entities. Throughout the series, different generations of this family take center stage, with each part featuring a new descendant as the main character, starting with Jonathan in the year 1880.
From the start to part six, events unfold in a single, chronological sequence, while parts seven and eight take place in an alternate reality. The genres this story spans include action, adventure, supernatural, suspense, comedy, tragedy, mystery, and horror. It’s most recognized for its unique Stand ability.
1. Discussing the narrative structure, characters Dio Brando and Jotaro Kujo from Stardust Crusaders, along with their grandiose, arrogant personas portrayed exceptionally well; and the abundant use of allusions to popular Western tunes throughout the storyline.
2. Exploring the plotline, characters Dio Brando and Jotaro Kujo in Stardust Crusaders, whose overbearing personalities are depicted beautifully; and its frequent references to Western music hits scattered throughout the narrative.
3. Analyzing the storyline of Stardust Crusaders, featuring characters Dio Brando and Jotaro Kujo, whose self-assured demeanors are skillfully presented; and the numerous nods to popular Western songs integrated within the plot.
20. Fire Force
Original run: The series aired from July 6, 2019 to December 12, 2020
Number of episodes: A total of 48 episodes were broadcasted.
Genre: It falls under the categories of Adventure, Dark Fantasy, and Science Fiction.
The manga “Fire Force,” penned and illustrated by Atsushi Ōkubo, falls under the shōnen genre. It’s been published in Weekly Shōnen Magazine, a magazine published by Kodansha, since September 2015. As of August 2021, thirty volumes have been released. The animated television series adaptation by studio David Production was broadcasted in Japan from July 6 to December 28, 2019. A second season aired between July 4, 2020 and December 12, 2020.
198 solar years ago, Earth encountered an extraordinary event known as spontaneous human combustion. This enigmatic occurrence would cause humans to burst into flames unexpectedly, resembling a living “torch”.
Members of Tokyo’s unique Fire Force divisions aim to understand and eliminate a mysterious occurrence. One such member is Shinra Kusakabe, often referred to as “the Demon”, who joins the 8th division with a mission to stop human combustion incidents and uncover the secrets behind them. Twelve years prior, a fire took the lives of his mother and brother.
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2025-05-18 02:47