25 Anime Where the Power of Friendship Is Literally Gay

Often, the bond between friends is much deeper than it appears—it can determine fates, drive major changes, and even save the world. In certain anime, these same-gender connections—whether romantic, hinting at LGBTQ+ themes, or openly LGBTQ+—are central to the story, acting as the source of power, the driving force behind character development, or the key to success. From magical girls whose love rewrites reality to skaters who achieve greatness as a team, these stories demonstrate that the power of friendship can be incredibly strong—and sometimes, it’s powerfully queer.

‘Revolutionary Girl Utena’ (1997)

Utena and Anthy’s connection is central to the show’s dueling world, as their relationship dictates who wields the Rose Bride’s power. The series suggests that breaking free from harmful patterns relies on Utena and Anthy choosing each other instead of following traditional, controlling rules. As they grow closer and learn to trust each other, they begin to shatter illusions and ultimately have the power to change a world built on unfair foundations.

‘Sailor Moon’ (1992–1997)

The Sailor Guardians frequently win battles because of the strong love and loyalty they share, particularly between Sailor Uranus and Sailor Neptune. Their close partnership boosts the team’s determination and often helps them succeed in critical moments. When the Guardians reaffirm their bonds with each other, their powers become even stronger. The story essentially shows that the power of found family can be a real advantage when facing dangerous enemies.

‘Cardcaptor Sakura’ (1998–2000)

Sakura’s ability to collect and master the Clow Cards is greatly aided by Tomoyo, whose unwavering support goes beyond friendship and hints at deeper romantic feelings. Tomoyo’s filming, costume design, and constant presence provide Sakura with the stability she needs to succeed magically. The show portrays these affectionate feelings, like Tomoyo’s crush, as a consistent source of strength and confidence, suggesting that affection is the foundation of Sakura’s every victory.

‘Yuri!!! on Ice’ (2016)

Yuuri’s progress as a skater is deeply connected to Viktor’s guidance and their romantic relationship. The choices they make in their programs, the way they choreograph their routines, and even a symbolic ring exchange all show how their closeness fuels Yuuri’s athletic achievements. Other skaters react to their powerful connection, adjusting their own performances in response. Ultimately, the series portrays queer love not just as a relationship, but as the key to reaching one’s full potential.

‘Given’ (2019)

Ritsuka’s development as a guitarist and Mafuyu’s journey of healing through music are deeply connected, forming a band that thrives on their relationship. Their most creative moments happen when they openly confront difficult emotions like loss and explore the complexities of connection. The band’s performances transform genuine feelings into powerful music. Ultimately, friendship, love, and artistic expression fuel their progress.

‘Banana Fish’ (2018)

Ash and Eiji’s relationship dramatically changes the dynamics of the criminal world, giving Ash a clear purpose and something to hold onto. This closeness affects how everyone – both their friends and enemies – acts, shifting the power balance. Because they completely trust each other, they’re able to pull off daring escapes and face dangerous confrontations. The story constantly uses their connection as a way for them to survive and gain an advantage.

‘No. 6’ (2011)

Shion and Nezumi’s connection reveals the dark side of their city and inspires others to fight back. By supporting each other with basic needs like shelter, healthcare, and training, they gain the strength to oppose the government. The story features dramatic turning points where each one is willing to sacrifice everything for the other. Ultimately, their close bond is presented as the catalyst that exposes the lies and brings down the oppressive system.

‘Bloom Into You’ (2018)

As Yuu and Touko grow closer, their connection fuels a student play that explores who we are and how we see ourselves. Working together and rehearsing allows them to express their feelings and rewrite their own stories. The more honest they are with each other, the clearer the play—and their own identities—become. Their relationship provides the support everyone needs to be their authentic selves.

‘Puella Magi Madoka Magica’ (2011)

Homura repeats time again and again because she deeply cares for Madoka, and this strong emotion is what allows her to alter reality. Madoka’s final wish changes everything in the universe, all because it’s based on her kindness towards other girls. The fate of every magical girl – their contracts, battles, and rescues – hinges on the connections they share. Essentially, the show portrays love as a powerful force that can reshape the world.

‘Sarazanmai’ (2019)

In this story, boys who become kappa creatures can only access their powers by working together and sharing their true feelings, often with others of the same gender. The series connects these feelings of attraction and honesty to the ability to defeat monsters as a team. When relationships are strained or feelings are hidden, their fighting abilities suffer until those feelings are openly expressed. Essentially, emotional connection is the key to winning battles.

‘Yurikuma Arashi’ (2015)

As a supporter, I see so much power in the way girls love each other, but it’s often something they’re forced to hide or fight for just to get by. Society puts up these barriers, almost like it punishes them for wanting to connect. It’s amazing to witness how girls band together to overcome that, creating their own little worlds with their own rules and ways of showing affection. Everything—how they’re treated, how they’re judged—often comes down to whether or not they’re allowed to love openly. But when they do embrace that love and show it as strength, that’s when things really start to shift, and it’s truly inspiring. It proves love isn’t dangerous, it’s empowering.

‘Flip Flappers’ (2016)

Cocona and Papika can explore deeper into fantastical dream worlds the more in sync they are. They gain boosts in power when they trust each other, especially while facing bizarre obstacles. The series constantly challenges their relationship, even making them question who they are, and their growing romantic connection is what drives the whole adventure.

‘Kill la Kill’ (2013–2014)

The intense conflict between Ryuko and Satsuki transforms into a powerful alliance built on their shared bond as sisters and a sense of female unity. Successfully connecting with the living school uniforms requires genuine consent and embracing who you are. The female members of the student council challenge traditional, controlling power structures. Ultimately, they succeed when they support each other instead of conforming to expectations.

‘Superb Song of the Valkyries: Symphogear’ (2012–2019)

Singing duets and group songs directly increase a character’s fighting power, and the strongest combinations often happen between characters with close, personal relationships. Sharing feelings, making amends, and even simple gestures like holding hands all unlock new abilities and powerful finishing moves. Throughout the series, strong friendships and close bonds – sometimes with romantic undertones – are consistently linked to dramatic increases in power needed to save the world. Essentially, emotional connection leads to better combat performance.

‘Revue Starlight’ (2018)

The heart of the show lies in the intense rivalry and connection between the girls competing for success, particularly the two main characters whose bond drives the story. Their performances are judged on how honestly they confront their desires and envy. As their relationships deepen, the show’s events and standings change. The show’s unique magic system actually highlights genuine connection and queer intimacy.

‘Adachi and Shimamura’ (2020)

This series follows two girls as their friendship blossoms into something more, subtly changing how they see the world and what matters to them. Everyday activities and small moments become meaningful as they grow closer, influencing their choices about school, friends, and how they spend their time. It’s a story about how a tender romance can quietly shape the direction of your life.

‘Citrus’ (2018)

Yuzu and Mei’s complex connection dramatically alters the school’s student council and even affects family choices. Everything from dorm life and school rules to who has legal guardianship is impacted by how they define their relationship. Their connection compels the school and families to adapt, leading to real, noticeable changes. The main events of the story unfold because of the strain their feelings put on the existing, strict rules and systems.

‘Princess Principal’ (2017)

In a fantastical, steam-powered city, a group of young female spies relies on trust above all else to succeed in their dangerous missions. The close partnership between Ange and the Princess is essential for navigating risky situations and making daring escapes. Their ability to share information and maintain disguises depends entirely on the strength of their bond, which the show portrays as their most reliable tool.

‘Lycoris Recoil’ (2022)

Chisato and Takina become better fighters and more thoughtful people because of their partnership. As they get to know each other outside of work, they work even better together in battle. The story’s biggest events – like characters moving, being betrayed, or needing to be saved – happen because of the choices they make to support each other. Ultimately, the series explores serious national security issues through the heartwarming relationship between these two characters.

‘SK8 the Infinity’ (2021)

As Reki and Langa become better skaters, their bond grows stronger, and vice versa. Their coaching techniques, board designs, and even the tricks they invent all develop alongside their relationship. This connection fuels their competitive spirit, shaking up the skateboarding scene and changing who’s on top. Ultimately, the story suggests that their developing feelings for each other are the key to unlocking incredible skills.

‘Land of the Lustrous’ (2017)

Okay, so “Land of the Lustrous” really blew me away with how it portrays relationships. It’s not just about romance, but about how gems need each other to survive. They team up based on what they’re good at and where they fall short, and a lot of these strong bonds happen between gems of the same gender. Watching Phos change and grow wasn’t just a character arc, it was directly tied to who they connected with – and who they lost. These shifting alliances weren’t just dramatic, they actually impacted how effective they were in fighting the Lunarians. It’s wild – the emotional connections literally change their bodies and what they’re capable of. It’s a really unique way to show how vital relationships are, and how they shape who we become.

‘Miss Kobayashi’s Dragon Maid’ (2017–2021)

Tohru’s unwavering care transforms Kobayashi’s life, impacting her home, work, and relationships, and creating a close, unconventional family built on affection. Simple, everyday acts of care—like cooking, looking after each other, and helping through tough times—grow stronger as they become closer. The feelings and friendships of other girls further enrich their lives and abilities. Ultimately, their everyday love fuels their ability to navigate a life filled with the supernatural.

‘Buddy Daddies’ (2023)

Two men raising a child together navigate the challenges of their criminal lives. Their connection forces them to rethink how they operate, who they trust, and how they approach their work. Managing everyday life – like school, safety, and keeping their activities secret – becomes possible only through their strong relationship. This unconventional family dynamic is seen as a source of power by both allies and enemies, and the story shows how building a home life can actually make them stronger in their illicit work.

‘Whispered Words’ (2009)

Sumika’s feelings for Ushio subtly influence everything she does – from the clubs she joins to how she interacts with others, and even the chances she takes. Their connection naturally draws people together, shaping the dynamics of their class. As Sumika and Ushio navigate their feelings and occasional miscommunications, the whole group reorganizes around them. Ultimately, the story shows how a teenage crush can quietly shape the world of everyone involved.

‘Given: The Movie’ (2020)

The band’s future success relies on Mafuyu and Ritsuka building a solid relationship as they start creating new music. Everything – from tour plans and songwriting to their performances – will be affected by how they deal with feelings of jealousy and how close they become. The stories of the other band members will also develop based on the dynamic between these two, and their queer relationship is ultimately what drives the group’s energy and passion.

What anime titles would you recommend that strongly portray the “power of friendship” as a queer connection? Which shows made you feel that bond was wonderfully gay?

2025-12-07 18:18