To pay tribute to the enduring impact of “That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime,” we’re putting together a must-watch list of 20 top anime similar to it, each sharing some common ground with our beloved series.
1. Re:Zero − Starting Life in Another World
Original Run: April 4, 2016 – March 24, 2021
Number of Episodes: 50 (+ 2 OVA + 50 ONA)
On an ordinary day, stepping out from a local shop, a young Japanese high schooler known as Subaru Natsuki, clad in a tracksuit, finds himself mysteriously transported to another realm with no rhyme or reason. In his quest to establish himself in this unfamiliar world, Subaru is ambushed by a ruthless gang of marauders.
At the brink of death, he is miraculously rescued by a half-elf named Satela, who sports silver hair and is accompanied by a feline spirit called Pack. As a token of gratitude, he elects to assist her with her everyday tasks, among which is tracking down a missing badge that was stolen from her by Felt, a nimble young girl known for her thievery.
In the urban outskirts, they later encountered an unknown assailant who ended their lives. Just before breathing his last, Subaru vowed to go to any lengths to rescue Satela.
2. Overlord
Original Run: July 7, 2015 – present
Number of Episodes: 39 (+ 1 OVA and 34 ONA)
The narrative unfolds within the thriving digital world of Yggdrasil, an online role-playing game that’s closing after a 12-year run. Despite this, its central character, Momonga, struggles to come to terms with it. In the real world, he lacks family, friends, romantic relationships, and purpose, making the prospect of life outside the game unappealing.
He heads up one of the top 10 guilds within the game, known as Ainz Ooal Gown. This unique guild is made up entirely of non-human characters and their main base is the colossal structure called the Great Tomb of Nazarick.
3. Sword Art Online
Original Run: July 8, 2012 – September 20, 2020
Number of Episodes: 96
In this game, hailing from the initial storyline of Sword Art Online, we find ourselves in a colossal floating castle named Aincrad, divided into 100 levels. Each tier mirrors a medieval townscape and hosts a labyrinth with a formidable boss that players must vanquish to proceed to the next level. The game follows a typical role-playing pattern, incorporating a level progression system.
After the trial phase ended, the game designer set up a mechanism that kept players trapped within Aincrad. To log off, one had to complete the game completely. If players perished in-game or were forced out of their virtual headsets, their minds would be subjected to lethal microwave radiation.
4. Fate/Zero
Original Run: October 1, 2011 – June 23, 2012
Number of Episodes: 25
The narrative unfolds ten years prior to the incidents of Fate/stay night. In the midst of the Holy Grail War, seven powerful magicians (Masters), selected by the Holy Grail, prepare to summon seven legendary beings (Servants) for a ferocious struggle. After three failed wars, the combat is set to recommence for the fourth time, and these mages are racing to reach Fuyuki, the battlefield, hoping for triumph.
Indeed, winning the Holy Grail allows one to make a single wish come true. Out of the seven contenders, Kirei Kotomine appears indifferent towards acquiring it, while Kiritsugu Emiya is fiercely determined to obtain it. The intense rivalry between these two characters and the series of battles involving Masters and Servants are the core elements of the plot.
The Holy Grail can fulfill anyone’s deepest desire when won. Among the seven competitors, Kirei Kotomine seems uninterested, but Kiritsugu Emiya is relentless in his pursuit. The conflict between these two individuals and the string of confrontations involving Masters and Servants are key aspects of the narrative.
This narrative delves into the authentic account of the fourth Sacred Grail War, a conflict that transpired a decade prior to the renowned Fate/stay night video game, where only parts of it were previously revealed. The focus will shift to the battle involving Kiritsugu Emiya, who is Shirō’s adoptive father and the central figure in this tale, Tokiomi Tohsaka, Rin’s father, and the young Kirei Kotomine, who would later emerge as the primary adversary.
5. How Not to Summon a Demon Lord
Original Run: July 5, 2018 – June 11, 2021
Number of Episodes: 22
Takuma Sakamoto finds himself unexpectedly transferred into the realm of his beloved game, Cross Reverie, assuming the role of his powerful character, the Demon King Diablo, in an extraordinary twist of events.
The two teenage girls, Rem and Shera, tried casting a spell to turn Takuma into their servant, but the magic backfired. Instead, they received enchanted necklaces that bound them as his apprentices or loyal servants, not actual slaves.
Despite battling social anxiety, Takuma courageously assumes the part of his character when engaging with others. Leveraging his superior attributes and extensive understanding of Cross Reverie, he navigates his novel surroundings effectively, accompanied by his travel companion.
6. Death March to the Parallel World Rhapsody
Original Run: January 11, 2018 – March 29, 2018
Number of Episodes: 12
In the story, Ichirō Suzuki, a developer by trade, finds himself mysteriously transported into another world, appearing as a teenager instead of his adult self. This world, surprisingly, resembles the video game he was designing before his unexpected nap. Confused and disoriented, Ichirō is swiftly confronted by a band of reptilian creatures.
To stay alive, he employs the spells given to fresh players and swiftly defeats every opponent. Consequently, his rank skyrockets and he accumulates an immense amount of treasure. However, he prefers to keep a low profile and decides to go by the name Satou Pendragon to explore this new realm and make new acquaintances.
7. KonoSuba
Original Run: January 14, 2016 – March 16, 2017
Number of Episodes: 20 (+ 2 OVA)
Following an unexpected and awkward demise, Kazuma Sato – a Japanese recluse teen – encounters a deity named Aqua. She proposes that he be reborn in a different realm with aspects reminiscent of an MMORPG, where he can explore, fight monsters, and embark on thrilling adventures.
In a brand-new realm, I was presented with an extraordinary artifact or unparalleled power – but all thanks to Aqua’s provocation, I decided to bring her along instead. Upon arriving at Axel’s town, I swiftly realized that her questionable decision-making wasn’t exactly the asset I had anticipated.
8. Wise Man’s Grandchild
Original Run: April 10, 2019 – June 26, 2019
Number of Episodes: 12
In a turn of events, the esteemed wizard Merlin Wolford, revered by many as both a hero and a wise elder, encounters an infant and chooses to raise him as his grandson. This child, whom he names Shin, is in fact a young Japanese man who met his end in a road accident, but was reborn into this world with the memories of his past life still intact.
Merlin will pass along all his wisdom about our world and magic to Shin, making him a strong, gifted sorcerer. Yet, as Merlin considers Shin’s future at fifteen, he regrets that in their years together, he had neglected to impart common sense to him, given his isolation from society.
9. Knight’s & Magic
Original Run: July 2, 2017 – September 24, 2017
Number of Episodes: 13
After a fatal traffic accident, Tsubasa Kurata – an brilliant computer scientist and otaku with a love for mecha and robots – experiences his spirit being reborn in another realm teeming with massive robots known as “Silhouetted Knights”. These colossal machines serve as the dominant military force in this new world.
In my time, I would’ve donned armor, wielded mighty swords, and ridden fearsome steeds in the service of our kingdom. Yet, in this fascinating world you describe, brave warriors are equipped with colossal robots and mystical powers to combat terrifying creatures – beasts, demons, and monstrous animals that indiscriminately consume everything they lay their eyes upon.
As a passionate film enthusiast, I find myself reborn anew in this alternate realm, taking on the identity of Ernesti Echevalier – scion of a noble lineage. Remarkably, my past memories remain intact, and my ardor for the mechanical marvels persists undiminished. Consequently, I am resolute in my pursuit to craft my own Figure Knight, leveraging this knowledge and passion to safeguard my kingdom.
10. Is It Wrong to Try to Pick Up Girls in a Dungeon?
Original Run: April 4, 2015 – present
Number of Episodes: 37 (+ 3 OVA)
Often known as “The Dungeon,” Orario, overseen by its guild, boasts a colossal underground maze teeming with various creatures from lowly goblins to towering dragons. Deemed worthy by the gods, individuals displaying courage and essential traits receive their divine blessings, transforming them into adventurers who venture through this labyrinth.
Through vanquishing monsters, they gather crystal shards that are vital for creating magical artifacts, along with numerous other valuable finds; yet, these shards can also be traded for money. The citizens of Orario have the option to join organizations called “Familia,” which serve multiple purposes such as delving into the Dungeon, crafting items, engaging in city life, or offering public services.
This version aims to maintain the original meaning while using simpler and more conversational language.
In this setting, each Family is titled after the divine figure who established it and assists that deity. This world resembles a role-playing game, where characters are identified by their allegiance and experience level, which escalates through practice and missions, unlocking special skills proportional to their skillset. The narrative revolves around Bell Cranel, a greenhorn seeking affection and greatness as an adventurer, and Hestia, a lonely goddess yearning for worshippers to establish her Family.
11. Arifureta: From Commonplace to World’s Strongest
Original Run: July 8, 2019 – present
Number of Episodes: 16 (+ 2 OVA)
Initially, Hajime Nagumo is a typical, compassionate high school student who endures bullying from his classmates due to his unique bond with their idol, Kaori Shirasaki. However, an unexpected event transports him, along with their teacher, into another magical realm, where they are transformed into heroes. Unlike his peers who receive extraordinary abilities like magic and impressive stats, Hajime receives a non-combative role called “Synergist,” which is more akin to a craftsman or artisan, with average statistics and the power to transform solid materials. This only serves to fuel the disdain of his classmates.
In the treacherous depths of Orcus’ Labyrinth during a daring conquest, Hajime fought alongside his companions to save Kaori. However, one of his fellow students betrayed him, leaving him for dead in the underworld. Despite being abandoned and seemingly doomed, with monsters lurking that were supposedly too powerful for him, Hajime miraculously survived.
12. Fate/stay night
Original Run: January 7, 2006 – June 17, 2006
Number of Episodes: 24
In the urban Japanese cityscape of Fuyuki, seven contestants engage in a fierce competition known as the Holy Grail War. Each participant wields magical abilities and commands a Servant, a being summoned prior to the war. The victor of this battle will gain control over the Grail, enabling them to fulfill their deepest desire. FATE serves as the initial and widely appreciated narrative in this intriguing series of events.
This tale centers on Shiro and his Servant, Saber. Throughout the narrative, Shiro remains steadfast in his beliefs, willing to contradict reality if necessary. Often, viewers perceive Shiro as a young character in this context. The initial 2006 anime series by Studio Deen predominantly follows this storyline, although it incorporates some minor aspects from the other two as well.
Datto Nishiwaki’s manga combines elements from this plotline and Unlimited Blate Works. Readers can only access Unlimited Blade Works after completing the FATE storyline, which results in Saber being unable to attack Archer. Alternatively, you can encounter this scenario by not aligning with Rin in FATE, however, this decision ultimately leads to an unfavorable outcome. The narrative primarily revolves around Rin, Shirō, and Archer, with the backstory of Archer, previously unknown in the initial scenario, being significantly expanded upon here.
In the given situation, Shiro demonstrates proficiency over his skills and successfully overpowers multiple Servants. This experience significantly diminishes his innocence, yet he remains committed to his principles. To those who value purity, Shiro appears as a teenager straddling the line between youth and maturity.
13. Grimgar of Fantasy and Ash
Original Run: January 11, 2016 – March 28, 2016
Number of Episodes: 12 + OVA
In a realm called Grimgar, a lad named Haruhiro arises alongside twelve others. They can only recall their names from their past, but not much else. To endure in this strange land, they elect to enlist as soldiers within the Volunteer Army of the town Alterna’s border. Among them is Haruhiro, joined by Yume, Shihoru, Ranta, Moguzo, and led by their commander Manato. As days pass, they gradually advance in an attempt to adapt and survive in this unfamiliar world.
However, right when things seemed to be going exceptionally well, Manato is fatally wounded during a mission. Before he breathes his last, he requests Haruhiro to take over as leader of their group. Deeply saddened by the demise of his friend, Haruhiro chooses to honor Manato’s wish and ensure the survival of their comrades.
14. The Rising of the Shield Hero
Original Run: January 9, 2019 – present
Number of Episodes: 25
Naofumi Iwatani was transported from our world to a foreign land alongside three other young men who hailed from different versions of Japan. In this new realm, they were chosen to become the “Legendary Four Heroes” or “Four Ancient Saints.” Each of these heroes was furnished with legendary gear upon their arrival in the strange world: Naofumi received the “Legendary Shield,” the sole defensive item among them, while the others obtained offensive weapons.
Because Naofumi had little charm and inexperience, he was left with just one companion, a charming young lady, whereas the others were given multiple partners. Unfortunately, on the second day, he was deceived, robbed, and wrongfully accused by this very same teammate.
Wracked with betrayal and despised by all, from the monarch to the common folk, Naofumi’s mind is consumed by a thirst for vengeance and contempt. This marks the start of his solitary journey through this realm.
15. Didn’t I Say to Make My Abilities Average in the Next Life?!
Original Run: October 7, 2019 – December 23, 2019
Number of Episodes: 12
It’s commonly acknowledged that Misato Kurihara is extraordinarily intelligent. Since her extraordinary talents became apparent, there has been much anticipation surrounding her. However, on the day of her high school graduation ceremony, an absent-minded driver unexpectedly drove towards a young girl.
In an instant, Misato leaped unhesitatingly into the road to shield the young girl, knowing it might cost her own life. Upon regaining consciousness, she finds herself face-to-face with God, the Creator, who reveals that the child she saved would grow up to be renowned for her achievements.
16. Princess Connect! Re:Dive
Original Run: April 7, 2020 – present
Number of Episodes: 17
In the land of Astraea, a man mysteriously descends from the heavens, only recalling his name – Yuuki. An elf named Kokkoro discovers him and offers to be his guide in navigating their upcoming journey. With Kokkoro’s assistance, Yuuki can learn the ins and outs of this world, including combat with creatures and managing currency.
Instead of going to the guild association to earn money for their journey, Yuuki and Kokkoro choose to take on a straightforward task there. During this venture, they encounter Pecorine, a girl with quite an appetite and a captivating personality, who is highly skilled in combat.
17. Do You Love Your Mom and Her Two-Hit Multi-Target Attacks?
Original Run: July 13, 2019 – September 28, 2019
Number of Episodes: 12 (+ OVA)
Masato Oosuki is an ordinary high school student yearning for independence from his mother’s care. Despite this, he maintains a strong bond with her. One unexpected day, after participating in a casual survey, he discovers he’s been entangled in a covert government operation and ends up inside a virtual game universe.
It appears to be a blessing for him, especially one eager to escape from his motherly care, and as an enthusiastic participant, having the opportunity to swiftly exhibit his skills in this novel environment.
18. Isekai Quartet
Original Run: April 9, 2019 – present
Number of Episodes: 24
One day, out of nowhere, a magical button materializes. The heroes of KonoSuba, Overlord, Re: Zero – Starting Life in Another World, Saga of Tanya the Evil, and others find themselves transported to another world when they press this button. In the second season, the main characters from The Rising of the Shield Hero and Cautious Hero join their school life storyline in this new realm.
19. Re:CREATORS
Original Run: April 8, 2017 – September 16, 2017
Number of Episodes: 22
By the close of 2016, Sōta Mizushino was a youthful high school pupil who enjoyed anime and harbored dreams of penning his own light novel.
While drawing inspiration from the animated version of the Mecha Vogelchevalier light novel, an unexpected event occurred when the tablet screen on which he was streaming the series suddenly malfunctioned, causing him to be transported into the anime world. There, he found himself observing a fierce battle between Celejia Upitiria, a character from the anime, and a young girl in military attire who seemed enigmatic.
After his tablet crashes again, Sōta returns to his world but ends up dragging Celejia with him.
20. No Game No Life
Original Run: April 9, 2014 – June 25, 2014
Number of Episodes: 12
In the virtual and real-life worlds, I’m bonded with someone like no other – Sora. Together, we’re not just siblings in spirit, but a formidable gaming duo where our unique talents make us unbeatable. Sora has this uncanny intuition, vast knowledge, exceptional intelligence, and an uncanny ability to see through any situation. On the other hand, I excel intellectually, surpassing even the brightest minds. As one, we’re invincible.
In the real world, they tend to be solitary and shy away from social interactions, often referred to as hikikomori. However, when it comes to video games, they unite under a group called “White”, an enigmatic band of gamers who remain undefeated in every game they join, due to their character names appearing as empty spaces. This group is commonly known as “White” in the gaming world.
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2025-05-18 21:47