Dragon Ball Z is a highly acclaimed anime series that spans many episodes, meaning it could take some time for you to catch up on everything. However, unlike shows like One Piece or Detective Conan, it eventually comes to an end. Once you’ve completed watching Dragon Ball Z, you might find yourself in search of another series to engage with. You may already have a specific anime in mind, but if not, you could be on the hunt for something new, particularly something reminiscent of your cherished Dragon Ball Z.
Anime offers a broad spectrum of styles, ensuring there’s something appealing for everyone. However, given its wide variety, finding the perfect fit can sometimes prove challenging. That’s where we come in to help make your anime search easier!
In this post, we’ll guide you in discovering some animations that share characteristics with the iconic series, “Dragon Ball Z”, enabling you to make an informed choice for your next watch after completing DBZ. We trust our list will be useful, so delve deeper and uncover the ten top anime titles reminiscent of Dragon Ball Z.
1. Dragon Ball GT / Dragon Ball Super
This animated series, blending adventure, martial arts, comedy, and fantasy elements, aired from February 7, 1996 to November 19, 1997 (known as GT) and then again from July 5, 2015 to March 25, 2018 (Super). The show spans over a total of 64 episodes in the GT version and an impressive 131 episodes in the Super version. Additionally, there are two anime movies that further enrich this captivating series.
It makes perfect sense that fans of Dragon Ball Z would be eager to see how the story continues. That’s why Dragon Ball GT, an anime-only sequel to Dragon Ball Z, and Dragon Ball Super, a sequel penned by Akira Toriyama, are worth watching. Both series share the same narrative continuity and core concept, but they explore new worlds and introduce fresh characters. So, if you’re a fan of Dragon Ball Z, these two series should definitely be on your list to watch first.
2. Yū Yū Hakusho
This animated series, which aired from October 10, 1992 to December 17, 1994, falls under the genres of adventure, martial arts, and supernatural. It spans across 112 episodes, and there are additional materials available in the form of two original video animations (OVAs) consisting of 6 episodes and 2 movies.
This renowned ’90s anime undoubtedly merits a place on our list as it shares many characteristics with “Dragon Ball Z”. Much like another listing here (“Bleach”), “Yū Yū Hakusho” is an anime that blends adventure, supernatural elements, and martial arts. Does this sound familiar? Both “Dragon Ball” and “Dragon Ball Z” share similar features; the primary distinction being that “Yū Yū Hakusho” takes place in contemporary times. Nevertheless, fans of “Dragon Ball Z” should find enough enjoyment in this anime due to its resemblance to their favorite show.
3. One-Punch Man
Genre: Action, Comedy, Superhero
First Broadcast: October 5, 2015 – July 2, 2019
Total Episodes: 12 (initial run) + 24 OVAs (Original Video Animations)
Additional Content: 1 Original Animation DVD
In numerous aspects, “One-Punch Man” can be seen as a spiritual heir to “Dragon Ball Z”. This action-packed anime series shares with its predecessor a focus on martial arts, and it gives equal weight to both the physical battles and the internal struggles of its characters.
In contrast to Dragon Ball Z, this series presents an intriguing contrast as its protagonist is the strongest individual on Earth. However, due to his lack of a genuine challenge, he often finds himself in a state of boredom. Remarkably, the show skillfully navigates between deep psychological themes and tedious periods of boredom, making it a compelling watch that we wholeheartedly recommend.
4. One Piece
This is a long-running adventure and fantasy series that initially started airing on October 20, 1999. As of September 10, 2023, it has produced a total of 1075 episodes. Apart from the regular TV show, there are also 14 anime films, 13 television specials, and 7 Original Video Animations (OVAs) along with 4 short films associated with this series.
Although One Piece doesn’t heavily feature martial arts like Dragon Ball Z, its pirate-themed adventure offers action that Dragon Ball Z enthusiasts will find enthralling. With an extensive and widely loved run, this anime series stands among the longest and most popular ever produced. The show captivates audiences with its humorous tone, imaginative narratives, memorable characters (particularly the lead, Monkey D. Luffy), and thrilling action scenes. While it may not share the same fundamental concept as Dragon Ball Z, One Piece promises a heap of enjoyment for Dragon Ball Z fans, making it a highly recommended watch.
5. Bleach
Genre: Adventure with Supernatural Elements
First Aired: December 16, 2006 (ongoing)
Number of Episodes: Currently, 389 (as of September 9, 2023)
Additional Content: 4 anime movies, one live-action film
Despite the mystical aspects that form the heart of Bleach, the series delivers plenty of action, combat, and world-saving scenarios reminiscent of Dragon Ball Z. What sets Bleach apart is its rich psychological depth, making it a captivating solo production, as well as an ideal follow-up to Dragon Ball Z. We wholeheartedly recommend you give it a try.
6. Naruto / Naruto: Shippuden / Boruto
This long-running animated series, spanning from October 3, 2002 to the present, is known as “Naruto” and its sequel “Boruto.” The original Naruto ran for 220 episodes, followed by Naruto: Shippuden with 500 episodes. As of March 26, 2023, Boruto has aired 293 episodes. This action-packed, fantasy, and martial arts adventure series also includes 11 anime films as additional material.
The Naruto series, a globally recognized animanga brand, encompasses an original anime titled Naruto, chronicling the life of Naruto Uzumaki from childhood through adulthood in Naruto: Shippuden. Meanwhile, Boruto, currently ongoing, focuses on the escapades of Naruto’s son, Boruto. Although the shinobi universe differs slightly from that of Dragon Ball Z, it offers ample doses of fantasy and martial arts action, making it a fitting choice for fans of Dragon Ball Z.
7. InuYasha
This show belongs to the genres of adventure, fantasy, and romance. It originally aired from October 16, 2000, to September 13, 2004, with an additional season titled “The Final Act” airing from October 3, 2009, to March 29, 2010. The original run consisted of 167 episodes, while “The Final Act” had 26. There are also four anime films associated with the series, as well as a sequel series titled “Yashahime: Princess Half-Demon.
InuYasha shares many similarities with Dragon Ball Z as both are anime centered around martial arts, supernatural powers, and fantasy elements. What sets InuYasha apart is its unique blend of a historical background with contemporary themes. Although it has a more somber tone and fewer comedic moments compared to Dragon Ball Z, fans of the latter might find InuYasha appealing, making it a strong recommendation for them.
8. Hunter x Hunter
Genre: Adventure, Fantasy, Martial Arts
First Air Date: October 16, 1999 (original); October 2, 2011 (remake)
Number of Episodes: 62 (original); 148 (remake)
Additional Content: 1 anime film, OVA series consisting of 30 episodes
This is an adventure, fantasy, and martial arts series. The original aired from October 16, 1999, to March 31, 2001, while the remake started on October 2, 2011, and ended on September 24, 2014. There were 62 episodes in the original series, but the remake had a total of 148 episodes. Additionally, there was an anime film released, along with an OVA (original video animation) series that spanned 30 episodes.
Speaking as a film enthusiast, let me tell you that Hunter x Hunter shares many similarities with Dragon Ball Z, particularly in the realm of martial arts-based adventure anime. What sets it apart, however, is the striking resemblance between Gon Freecss’s hairdo and that of Saiyans.
The story revolves around Gon’s journey to become a Hunter – a title held by individuals who can track down exotic beasts and hidden treasures, and possess abilities beyond belief through the manipulation of their Nen, much like his father. This anime is more than just a fight; it delves deep into the characters’ growth, making each battle feel significant and emotionally engaging.
Each episode is enjoyable and amusing in its own right, but what truly stands out are the overarching storylines that demonstrate Gon’s personal growth. The anime has undergone two versions: the initial series spanning from 1999 to 2001, followed by a remake that revisited the beginning of the narrative and continued till 2014.
9. Sword Art Online
Genre: Adventure and Science Fiction
First Air Date: July 8, 2012 to September 19, 2020
Total Episodes: 96
Additional Material: Two Anime Films (Anime Movies)
If you’ve already completed Dragon Ball Z, you might not initially consider Sword Art Online, given it’s a science-fiction title. However, it does provide an engaging experience. The series unfolds around individuals who find themselves imprisoned within a virtual reality game, where they wield powerful avatars to combat their predicament and save both themselves and the world.
In addition to sharing some resemblance with Dragon Ball Z, the series also boasts numerous battles. The animation quality and character development are exceptional, making it an engaging watch, despite its departure from the fantasy world of Dragon Ball Z. The first three seasons are highly recommended.
10. My Hero Academia
This series is a blend of adventure, fantasy, and superhero elements. It first aired on April 3, 2016, and is still ongoing as of April 23, 2023. As of now, it consists of 138 episodes. Additionally, there are two original video animations (OVAs), one original net animation (ONA), and two anime films available for viewers to enjoy.
Despite the fact that “My Hero Academia” doesn’t resemble “Dragon Ball Z” in terms of style and environment, they share a common genre. To put it simply, “My Hero Academia” is currently the most well-known martial arts anime of modern times, making it a kind of successor to “Dragon Ball Z.” During its original broadcast, “Dragon Ball Z,” along with other series in the franchise, was extremely popular.
In My Hero Academia, it’s not just the well-developed characters that shine, but also the remarkable villains and thrilling action sequences, which are some of the best in the business. If you enjoyed watching Dragon Ball Z, then you’ll definitely appreciate this show as well.
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2025-05-25 11:16