25 Anime Like Chainsaw Man You Must Watch

Discovering 25 Anime Series Similar to “Chainsaw Man”

In this write-up, we’ll unveil 25 top-notch anime shows that bear a striking resemblance to the captivating world of “Chainsaw Man.” Originally penned by Tatsuki Fujimoto, this shōnen manga has been serialized in Shūeisha’s Weekly Shōnen Jump magazine from December 2018 until December 2020. A much-anticipated anime adaptation, helmed by studio MAPPA, is set to premiere in 2022, while the continuation of the manga storyline is also being developed.

If you’re a fan of “Chainsaw Man” and are eagerly searching for more titles that offer an equally thrilling experience, then dive into our list of 25 anime series that will surely leave you on the edge of your seat!

1. Tokyo Ghoul

Original Run: July 4, 2014 – December 25, 2018
Number of Episodes: 48 (+2 OVA episodes)

Kicking off our list of anime similar to Chainsaw Man, we have Tokyo Ghoul. This series centers around the character Ken Kaneki, a student who unexpectedly finds himself smitten with a woman named Rize Kamishiro. After their encounter in a hidden alleyway, Rize bites Ken’s shoulder, and to his astonishment, she is unveiled as a ghoul, leaving him in shock.

Just as Rize was preparing to consume Ken, a sudden collapse of large metal poles from a construction site struck her, resulting in Roze’s unfortunate death. Meanwhile, Ken was severely injured and transported to the hospital. Upon his release from the hospital, Ken Kaneki discovers that he is no longer human. When he looks in the mirror, a chill runs through him as he now possesses one “crimson eye”.

It’s become clear to him that during his stay at the hospital, Rize’s internal organs were transferred to him. As a result, he has come to be known as a “half-ghoul”, which is a relatively uncommon term for someone like him.

2. Darker than Black

Original Release: April 6, 2007 – September 29, 2007
Number of Episodes: 25

Darker than Black narrates a tale centered around the enigma of Hell’s Gate. A decade ago, an inexplicable region dubbed as Hell’s Gate emerged in Tokyo, causing widespread destruction and reshaping the skyscape. The familiar stars vanished, replaced by false celestial bodies. Soon after this event, it was revealed that certain individuals, known as “pactors”, had extraordinary abilities.

Today, an immense barrier has been erected to keep people away from the entrance of Hell’s Gate. Each false star represents a signatory in a contract, pulsates when it employs its power, and vanishes if it perishes. Therefore, participants are often identified using a designation from an astronomical catalog. Many countries utilize these participants as covert agents or assassins.

3. Bleach

Original run: October 5, 2004 – March 27, 2012
Number of episodes: 366

In this version of events, Ichigo Kurosaki is a young man with a unique gift – he can see spirits. His life takes an unexpected turn when Rukia Kuchiki, a Shinigami, encounters him while seeking to defeat a Hollow. During their struggle, Rukia gets severely wounded and as a result, she has no choice but to pass on some of her powers to Ichigo. In an effort to safeguard Rukia’s family, Ichigo agrees to the Shinigami’s request for assistance.

Yet, during the power transition, something malfunctions, causing Ichigo to take on all of Rukia’s shinigami powers, thereby becoming a fully-fledged shinigami himself. Consequently, Rukia is left powerless and stranded in the human world until she recovers her strength. In the meantime, Ichigo takes over Rukia’s shinigami duties, fighting Hollows and guiding souls to the Soul Society, a realm of the afterlife.

4. Another

Original Run: January 10, 2012 – March 27, 2012
Number of Episodes: 12 (+ OVA)

A TV anime series that premiered in 2012 is based on a manga with the same title. In this anime, it’s the year 1972, and a much-loved student named Misaki Yomiyama from Class 3-3 at North Yomiyama School tragically passed away midway through the school year. Overwhelmed by grief, his classmates and teacher continued to treat him as if he were still alive, even saving a seat for him at graduation.

In the spring of ’98, I found myself relocating from bustling Tokyo to the quaint town of Yomiyama, a place my late mother called home, as Dad embarked on research in India. My new educational journey unfolded at North Yomiyama School, specifically class 3-3. What struck me as odd was the uncanny presence of Misaki in our graduation photograph.

5. Death Note

Original Run: October 3, 2006 – June 26, 2007
Number of Episodes: 37

Leaving Death Note out of an list showcasing anime similar to Chainsaw Man might seem like overlooking a worthy contender. Death Note is an anime where we follow the story of Light Yagami, a model student who yearns for something more than his mundane life amidst a society riddled with crime and corruption. His life undergoes a dramatic change when he stumbles upon a peculiar black notebook labeled “Death Note”. The note carries an intriguing instruction: “The person whose name is written in this book will die.

At first, Light harbored doubts about the authenticity of the notebook. However, his skepticism vanished when he managed to prove its effectiveness by using it on two crooks and encountering Ryuk, a shinigami who owned the Death Note. Inspired by this discovery, Light chose to harness this newfound power for a purpose: eliminating all criminals, banishing evil from society, and ascending as the “Supreme Being” in this revamped world.

6. BLOOD+ / BLOOD-C

Original Run: October 8, 2005 – September 30, 2011
Number of Episodes: 62 (+ 1 film)

The TV series Blood+ unfolds 30 years after the movie “Blood: The Last Vampire”, taking place in 2005. In this modern-day setting, the storyline delves into political machinations involving various entities, such as the US Army, who are attempting to manipulate vampires for their own gains.

In the vibrant heart of Okinawa resides Yours Truly, Saya Otonashi, who shares her life with my adoptive father, George Miyaguscu, and my siblings, Kai and Rik. A peculiar twist in my existence has left me with no recollection of my past until a year ago, when I joined a new foster family. My health necessitates periodic blood transfusions for medical reasons.

Apart from having a larger-than-average hunger and some unique traits, Saya appears much like any other regular high school student. Yet, her tranquil existence is abruptly shattered one fateful day when she encounters a terrifying creature – a vampire, a bloodthirsty monster that feeds on human life.

Afterward, an enigmatic entity known as the Red Shield Organization and their representative, David, make their presence known. David confides in Saya that due to a unique trait in her blood, she alone can efficiently combat the monstrous beings, as they are fatally affected by it.

Her task is to eliminate bats from existence. From that point forward, not just members of the Red Shield, but also Saya’s friends and relatives were pulled into the battle against these creatures. Accompanied by them, as well as her enigmatic faithful servant named Hadji, she embarks on a lengthy, perilous journey to annihilate bats. Along the way, she uncovers secrets about her past and discovers her true lineage.

7. Demon Slayer

Original Release: April 6, 2019 – present
Number of Episodes: 34

In the Taisho era Japan, Tanjirou, the eldest son from a family that deals with coal trading, lost his father. To support himself, he ventured out to sell charcoal within the town. Despite the hardships they faced, they found moments of joy in their everyday lives.

One evening, because of whispers spreading about a monster preying on people after sunset, he cannot make it back to his home and instead spends the night with a kind stranger within the city. However, upon his arrival home the next day, he discovers that his loved ones have been brutally killed by a demon.

Among his younger siblings, Nezuko is the lone survivor; however, she has been metamorphosed into a demon. At first, she assaults Tanjirou, but subsequently, her human-like feelings and cognizance become apparent. This is when a slayer of demons named Giyū Tomioka intervenes.

In the attempt to harm Nezuko, Giyu comes to understand the strong bond between brothers and sisters Kamado. He chooses to withdraw, sheathing his sword instead. On Giyu’s recommendation, Tanjirou ventures to seek training from his master Sakonji Urokodaki, aiming to become a demon slayer. This training will enable him to embark on a quest to discover a remedy that can transform Nezuko back into a human.

8. Soul Eater

Original Run: April 7, 2008 – March 30, 2009
Episodes: 51

The Soul Eater anime centers around Overlords. To combat the destructive force known as Kishin, which has the power to drive the world into chaos, Shinigami-sama establishes an academy where both Weapons and Overlords receive training jointly.

Previously, those weapons are the ones that can prevent global destruction; the individuals who wield them are their holders. To acquire the Scythe of Death, the weapon must consume 99 evil souls on the brink of becoming Kishin, along with one witch’s soul. As a result, all rulers are actively trying to create the Death Scythe by competing in crafting it.

In the narrative of Soul Eater, the action unfolds as the manga and anime’s central episodes transpire. At this point in the story, neither Maka nor Soul were recognized or renowned within the academy or beyond.

9. Jujutsu Kaisen

Original Run: October 3, 2020 – March 27, 2021
Number of Episodes: 24

One of the standout anime series similar to Chainsaw Man is Jujutsu Kaisen. Its story unfolds in a realm where curses stem from intense human emotions. To safeguard areas with high emotional density like schools and hospitals, these establishments are equipped with talismans or containers for curses. Since the only effective defense against curses requires a stronger curse, these talismans serve as essential tools.

These entities are usually undetectable by ordinary human sight, with a few exceptions such as exorcists. An exorcist’s role involves removing curses, safeguarding people from their influence, though this task comes with varying degrees of risk, as the afflictions can range in strength.

10. Hellsing Ultimate

Original Run: October 10, 2001 – January 16, 2002
Number of Episodes: 13 (+10 OVA episodes)

Hellsing Ultimate is based around The Royal Knights of the Protestant Order, a prominent family in London who are headed by Abraham Van Helsing. Over several generations, he has been engaged in battles against supernatural beings such as vampires, ghouls, and various entities that are commonly called “monsters,” which are typically hidden from ordinary people’s perception.

The Organization maintains a high level of confidentiality and has functioned as a covert military group, serving under Her Majesty for quite some time. Heading this organization is Sir Integra Fairbrook Wingates Hellsing, who happens to be a direct heir of the first Lord Hellsing. Despite her youth, she is thrust into leadership of the Order at a young age.

In a weakened state, nearing his end, Arthur, her father, instructs her that if she ever feels in danger, she should make her way to the basement of the mansion. There, she will find something capable of safeguarding her.

11. Black Clover

Original Run: October 3, 2017 – March 30, 2021
Number of Episodes: 170

The Black Clover animated series centers around Asta, a resolute youth who shares his orphaned life with his longtime friend, Yuno, within the realm of the Clover Kingdom. Since their early days, Asta harbored an ardent dream to attain the title of the kingdom’s most potent sorcerer, “Emperor-Mage,” and this ambition inadvertently ignited a similar aspiration in Yuno.

Regrettably, Asta lacked any innate magical abilities, while Yuno was naturally gifted in this area. Yet, both Asta and Yuno have made a pact to strive for the position of Emperor Mage. As their journeys diverge on the path to becoming Knight-Mages, their objective remains unchanged: to ascend as the next Emperor-Mage.

12. Blue Exorcist

Original Run: April 17, 2011 – March 25, 2017
Number of Episodes: 37 (+ 2 OVA)

In the realm of Blue Exorcist anime, there exist two contrasting dimensions: one inhabited by humans known as Assiah, and the other populated by demons called Gehenna. Typically, interaction between these realms is forbidden, but demons can infiltrate our world by taking possession of its inhabitants or objects.

Although Satan is often perceived as the ruler of demons, there’s one crucial aspect he lacks: a potent vessel within the human realm capable of holding him. In an attempt to rectify this, he sired Okumura Rin and Okumura Yukio (with only Rin inheriting Satan’s powers, as Yukio was too feeble). These offspring were born from a human mother, but it remains unclear whether they are part of his scheme or if they could transform into something else in accordance with his plans.

Following the slaying of his guardian father Fujimoto, Rin was granted a vision by him: a quest for Rin to train as an exorcist and vanquish the demon deity.

13. Elfen Lied

Original Run: July 25, 2004 – October 17, 2004
Number of Episodes: 13 (+ OVA)

The anime Elfen Lied takes place in Kamakura, Japan, and centers around the Diclonius, creatures resembling humans who possess unique features such as horns on their heads and powerful, unseen limbs known as “vectors.” Due to these abilities, Diclonius infants are either killed or confined in research facilities where they endure brutal mistreatment and cruel experiments that lead to extreme violence.

Amongst them, Lucy somehow breaks free towards the ocean, slaughtering any who stand in her path. Later, she’s discovered on the shore by two youths, both bewildered by her condition – a case of amnesia and a split personality, which were inflicted upon her following a gunshot wound to the head during her escape.

In my cinematic analysis, this narrative unfolds as I delve into the life of a young, enigmatic character, whom I’ll refer to as ‘Lucy’. Struggling with a profound personality shift, she is affectionately named ‘Nyu’, the only word she can articulate. Two intriguing individuals discover her plight and decide to bring her home, hoping to uncover her mysterious past. However, the relentless military pursuit continues, leaving us on edge as they doggedly track her down. A peculiar twist is revealed: every time Lucy sustains a head injury, she reverts back to being Lucy. This captivating tale promises an intriguing exploration of identity, memory, and the unyielding pursuit of truth.

14. Attack on Titan

Original Run: April 7, 2013 – ongoing
Number of Episodes: 70 (+8 OVA episodes and several movies)

In every compilation of top-tier anime, Attack on Titan is consistently included, which is why we’ve chosen to include it alongside titles like Chainsaw Man. The storyline in the Attack on Titan anime centers around Eren Jäger, his adoptive sister Mikasa Ackermann, and their best friend Armin Arlert, all of whom reside within human cities fortified by massive walls to safeguard them from the assaults of mysterious creatures known as Titans. These colossal, humanoid beings appear to have no rhyme or reason for consuming humans.

For over a century, walls built for peace have stood firm. Yet, one fateful day, the Titans breach Wall Maria’s outermost barrier, forcing the inhabitants to retreat even deeper. In this chaos, Eren’s mother perishes, prompting him and countless others to seek refuge behind Wall Rose. Stricken with grief, Eren vows retribution against the Titans, pledging to eradicate their kind altogether.

15. Hunter x Hunter

Original Release: From October 16, 1999 to March 31, 2001 and from October 2, 2011 to September 24, 2014
Number of Episodes: A total of 62 episodes between the first run and a subsequent 148 episodes in the second run.

The anime Hunter x Hunter primarily focuses on Gon Freecss, a young boy of twelve who nurtures an ambition to become a Hunter. Hunters are distinguished citizens who possess a card that grants them extraordinary permissions. With this card, they can obtain any item for sale without cost, commandeer vehicles and accommodations for their tasks, and essentially practice any profession in the world. They can be bounty hunters, chefs, archaeologists, zoologists, vigilantes, or experts in various fields.

Gon’s father, Ging Freecss, who he hasn’t met personally yet, is renowned as one of the most skilled hunters of their era. His ambition to become a hunter stems from his desire to locate and know his missing father.

16. Devil May Cry

Original Release: June 14, 2007 – September 6, 2007
Number of Episodes: 12

The “Devil May Cry” anime chronicles the thrilling, supernatural exploits of Dante, a dual role character as both a demon slayer and private detective running his own firm, Devil May Cry. He encounters iconic creatures from the series and interacts with characters like Lady, another demon hunter, and Trish, a female demon.

17. InuYasha

Timeframe: From October 16, 2000 to September 13, 2004, and from October 3, 2009 to March 29, 2010.
Episode Count: A total of 193 episodes (167 + 26)

The storyline in the InuYasha anime follows a half-demon teen from contemporary Japan, a monk with peculiar tendencies, a fox spirit, and an ancient demon slayer from the Sengoku era as they embark on various adventures to collect all pieces of the Shikon Jewel. Their main objective is to protect it from villains, particularly Naraku.

As a film enthusiast, I’ve found myself deeply drawn to InuYasha’s journey throughout the series. He’s constantly grappling with the pull of the Sacred Jewel and his emotions towards Kagome. His demonic nature, which amplifies his power, often leaves him torn. Yet, it’s his human side that proves to be the strongest, a facet of him that truly shines when he finds the Tessaiga sword.

18. Gungrave

Original Run: October 7, 2003 – March 30, 2004
Number of Episodes: 26

The Gungrave anime series commences with a truck enveloped by monsters resembling humans. Inside, a researcher and a young girl find themselves in a precarious predicament. Luckily, the researcher manages to rouse Brandon, a formidable combatant. Equipped with two colossal weapons (Cerberus), Brandon swiftly annihilates the horde of monsters. However, the origin of this assault, the backstory of our main characters, and the true identity of Brandon, alias “Beyond the Grave,” are gradually unveiled as we delve into a lengthy flashback chronicling the lives of two up-and-coming criminals who join the gang ruling their town.

19. Deadman Wonderland

Original Run: April 17, 2011 – July 3, 2011
Number of Episodes: 12 (+ OVA)

Our upcoming anime series is reminiscent of Chainsaw Man. In this show, titled Deadman Wonderland, we find ourselves ten years after a devastating earthquake leveled much of mainland Japan and submerged three-quarters of Tokyo beneath the ocean. The narrative unfolds around Ganta Igarashi, an apparently ordinary student at Nagano Prefecture College.

Despite having survived the earthquake, Ganta’s life had been unextraordinary, marked by no recollection of the catastrophe. However, the monotony is disrupted when a man drenched in blood and adorned in purple armor appears outside the classroom windows. This enigmatic figure, who seemed insane with his grin, massacred Ganta’s entire class, sparing him instead by implanting a shard of red crystal into his chest.

A short while following the tragedy, Ganta is singled out as the lone suspect. After a swift trial, he receives a sentence of life imprisonment at Deadman Wonderland, a penitentiary adorned with a carnival-like amusement park.

20. Akame ga Kill!

Original Run: July 7, 2014 – December 15, 2014
Number of Episodes: 24

The Akame ga Kill anime centers around the character Tatsumi, who sets out for the capital in pursuit of financial assistance for his impoverished hometown. Unfortunately, Tatsumi gets mugged and left penniless, but he’s rescued by a noblewoman named Aria.

On the ensuing night, Aria’s manor falls under attack by an elite squad of assassins called the Night Raid. While Tatsumi valiantly tries to shield Aria from Akame, one more Night Raid member brings the conflict to a close.

21. Parasyte

Original Run: October 9, 2014 – March 26, 2015
Episodes: 24

If you enjoy shows like Chainsaw Man, you might also appreciate Parasyte. In an unexpected event, countless spheres resembling tennis balls, inhabited by snake-like creatures, descended worldwide one night. These entities aim to replace human brains. One of these parasites attempted to invade a young man named Shinichi during his sleep, but failed to reach him as he was lying with his ear covered.

Startled from sleep as a creature attempts an invasive entry via his nostrils, the young high school student attempts self-defense but unfortunately sustains an injury to his right hand. In a quick act of improvisation, he grabs his headphones and swiftly wraps them around his wounded arm, creating a barrier that keeps the creature from advancing towards his brain.

In the end, he couldn’t separate his arm anymore, so it became a permanent part of his right hand instead. At the same time, other parasites, having gained control over their host’s mind, started preying on humans. Unfortunately, our protagonist and Shinichi were forced to share living quarters under these circumstances.

22. Berserker

From the enchanting period spanning October 7, 1997 to March 31, 1998, and then again from July 1, 2016 to June 23, 2017, I had the pleasure of experiencing a captivating journey, marked by a total of 25 episodes in the first leg and 24 episodes in the second.

During the spellbinding timeframe between October 7, 1997 and March 31, 1998, as well as from July 1, 2016 to June 23, 2017, I was captivated by an amazing adventure that unfolded over a total of 25 episodes in the first phase and 24 episodes in the second.

The action-packed anime “Berserk” follows the tale of two characters: Guts, a mighty swordsman, and Griffith, the charismatic leader of the Falcon Troop, a group of hired soldiers serving under the kingdom of Midland. Their bond, though complex, will prove vital as Guts’ extraordinary combat skills soon become invaluable to Griffith’s ambitious plans, with his prowess in swordsmanship and exceptional tactical mind setting him apart.

In my perspective, the captivating series “Berserker Anime” chronicles the ascension and demise of the Falcon Troop, and more profoundly, the intricate bond between Guts and Griffith. This relationship is a mesmerizing tapestry woven from three distinct threads: self-serving ties (where Griffith harnesses Guts’ strength), mutual admiration (as they both recognize each other as battle-hardened comrades), and an inexplicable emotional bond (each finding solace and necessity in the other’s presence).

23. Rurouni Kenshin

Original Run: January 10, 1996 – September 8, 1998
Number of Episodes: 95

In the year 1878, I find myself immersed in the vibrant cityscape of Tokyo, where the Rurouni Kenshin anime series unfolds. I am none other than Kenshin Himura, once a feared assassin known as Battosaï, master of the sword during the Tokugawa era. My past, though hidden beneath my humble exterior, carries the weight of countless lives taken. With the dawn of the Meiji era, I’ve chosen to wander the land, armed with a reverse-blade sword, vowing never again to take a life.

24. GOBLIN SLAYER!

Original run: October 7, 2018 – present
Number of episodes: 12

In the “GOBLIN SLAYER” anime, the story unfolds in a mystical realm where the lives of every inhabitant are dictated by the whims of divine dice rolls. From far-off lands, brave souls seek fortune and acclaim, joining the Adventurers Guild on their quests.

A greenhorn priestess new to the Guild teams up with a band of rookie explorers, but their initial mission quickly becomes a living nightmare as they’re ambushed by goblins; fortunately for her, she’s rescued miraculously by an enigmatic warrior in armor – the “Goblin Slayer”, a seasoned adventurer who dedicates his life to annihilating these monstrous creatures.

25. CLAYMORE

Original Run: April 4, 2007 – September 26, 2007
Number of Episodes: 26

The CLAYMORE animated series stands as the final recommendation for anime similar to Chainsaw Man. This show centers around the Claymores, unique beings who are half-human and half-demon, serving as warriors for human settlements against demon threats. Often shrouded in fear and apprehension, they are recognized by their distinctive silver eyes and massive swords worn on their backs, earning them the monikers of “silver-eyed witches” or “Claymores” from humans. Among these warriors is a character named Claire.

In a village, where she’s tasked with eliminating demons that terrorize the villagers, she slays the near-last member of a nearly wiped-out family who had transformed into a monstrous being. Alone now, Raki decides to join her on her violent journeys, taking up the role of a cook. As time passes, he uncovers the mysteries and heartbreaking fate of these unique women.

2025-05-29 00:18