20 Best Anime Like Game of Thrones Every Fan Needs to Watch
If you’re a fan of the hit HBO series and are looking for more epic fantasy adventures, then you’ve come to the right place. In this article, we’ll be discussing some of the best anime out there that share similar themes and elements with Game of Thrones.
From complex political intrigue to bloody battles and larger-than-life characters, these anime are sure to satisfy your craving for epic fantasy. So sit back, grab some popcorn, and get ready to dive into some of the most exciting and immersive anime the genre has to offer.
Vinland Saga (2019-)
Vinland Saga is a historical fiction and action anime series that aired in 2019. It is based on the manga series of the same name, which was written and illustrated by Makoto Yukimura.
The series follows the story of Thorfinn, a young Viking warrior who is seeking revenge for the death of his father at the hands of the ruthless warlord, Askeladd. Thorfinn becomes a member of Askeladd’s band of mercenaries and travels with them on a quest to conquer England. Along the way, he must confront his own personal demons and grapple with the moral complexities of the Viking way of life.
Vinland Saga shares some similarities with Game of Thrones in that it is set in a historically-inspired fantasy world and features a cast of complex and multifaceted characters. Both series also explore themes of power, loyalty, and the consequences of violence. Additionally, both Vinland Saga and Game of Thrones feature intense battle scenes and political intrigue, as well as a strong emphasis on character development and personal growth.
Berserk (1997–1998)
Berserk is a dark fantasy anime series that aired from 1997 to 1998. It is based on the manga series of the same name, which was written and illustrated by Kentaro Miura.
The series follows the story of Guts, a lone mercenary who is seeking revenge against his former comrade and nemesis, the demonically-possessed knight known as Griffith. Guts must navigate a world filled with supernatural creatures and political intrigue as he fights to exact his revenge and find his place in a chaotic and unforgiving world.
Berserk shares some similarities with Game of Thrones in that it is set in a dark and grim fantasy world and features a cast of complex and flawed characters. Both series also explore themes of power, loyalty, and the consequences of violence. Additionally, both Berserk and Game of Thrones feature intense battle scenes and political intrigue, as well as a strong emphasis on character development and personal growth. However, it should be noted that Berserk is significantly darker and more violent than Game of Thrones, with more explicit themes and content.
Overlord (2015-)
Overlord is a dark fantasy and action anime series that aired in 2015. It is based on the light novel series of the same name, which was written by Kugane Maruyama and illustrated by So-bin.
The series follows the story of Momonga, a powerful wizard and leader of a guild of adventurers in a virtual reality MMORPG called Yggdrasil. When the game is set to shut down, Momonga decides to stay logged in as the game’s servers shut down, only to find himself transported to a new world that is similar to the game. In this new world, Momonga assumes the role of a magical being known as an “overlord” and sets out to explore and conquer the realm.
Overlord shares some similarities with Game of Thrones in that it features a cast of complex and multifaceted characters and explores themes of power, loyalty, and the consequences of violence. Both series also feature intense battle scenes and political intrigue, as well as a strong emphasis on character development and personal growth. However, it should be noted that Overlord is significantly more light-hearted and action-oriented than Game of Thrones, with a focus on adventure and power fantasy rather than grim realism.
Claymore (2007)
Claymore is a dark fantasy and action anime series that aired in 2007. It is based on the manga series of the same name, which was written and illustrated by Norihiro Yagi.
The series follows the story of Clare, a young woman who has been transformed into a half-human, half-demon warrior known as a “Claymore.” As a Claymore, Clare is tasked with hunting down and eliminating powerful demons that threaten humanity. Along the way, she must confront her own personal demons and grapple with the moral complexities of her role as a warrior.
Claymore shares some similarities with Game of Thrones in that it is set in a dark and grim fantasy world and features a cast of complex and multifaceted characters. Both series also explore themes of power, loyalty, and the consequences of violence. Additionally, both Claymore and Game of Thrones feature intense battle scenes and political intrigue, as well as a strong emphasis on character development and personal growth. However, it should be noted that Claymore is significantly more action-oriented than Game of Thrones, with a focus on fast-paced combat and supernatural elements.
Akame ga Kill! (2014)
Akame ga Kill! is a dark fantasy and action anime series that aired in 2014. It is based on the manga series of the same name, which was written and illustrated by Takahiro and Tashiro Tetsuya.
The series follows the story of Tatsumi, a young warrior who sets out on a journey to the capital to make a name for himself and help his impoverished village. When he arrives in the capital, he becomes embroiled in the conflict between the Empire and a group of rebels known as Night Raid, who seek to overthrow the corrupt government. Tatsumi joins Night Raid and fights alongside its members, including the swordswoman Akame, to bring down the Empire and restore justice to the land.
Akame ga Kill! shares some similarities with Game of Thrones in that it is set in a dark and grim fantasy world and features a cast of complex and multifaceted characters. Both series also explore themes of power, loyalty, and the consequences of violence. Additionally, both Akame ga Kill! and Game of Thrones feature intense battle scenes and political intrigue, as well as a strong emphasis on character development and personal growth. However, it should be noted that Akame ga Kill! is significantly more action-oriented than Game of Thrones, with a focus on fast-paced combat and supernatural elements.
Log Horizon (2013-)
Log Horizon is a fantasy and action anime series that aired in 2013. It is based on the light novel series of the same name, which was written by Mamare Touno and illustrated by Kazuhiro Hara.
The series follows the story of Shiroe, a young man who is trapped in a virtual reality MMORPG called Elder Tale alongside thousands of other players. Shiroe must adapt to this new world and navigate the politics and conflicts that arise as he and his friends work to build a new society and find a way to return to the real world.
Log Horizon shares some similarities with Game of Thrones in that it features a cast of complex and multifaceted characters and explores themes of power, loyalty, and the consequences of violence. Both series also feature intense battle scenes and political intrigue, as well as a strong emphasis on character development and personal growth. However, it should be noted that Log Horizon is significantly more light-hearted and action-oriented than Game of Thrones, with a focus on adventure and power fantasy rather than grim realism. Additionally, Log Horizon is set in a virtual reality world rather than a traditional fantasy setting.
Code Geass (2006–2008)
Code Geass is a science fiction and action anime series that aired from 2006 to 2008. It is set in an alternate timeline in which the Holy Empire of Britannia has conquered and colonized much of the world, including Japan, which is now known as Area 11.
The series follows the story of Lelouch vi Britannia, an exiled prince who gains the power of the “Geass,” a special ability that allows him to control the minds of others. Lelouch uses his new powers to launch a rebellion against the Empire and take revenge against his father, the Emperor. Along the way, he must confront his own personal demons and grapple with the moral complexities of his actions.
Code Geass shares some similarities with Game of Thrones in that it features a cast of complex and multifaceted characters and explores themes of power, loyalty, and the consequences of violence. Both series also feature intense battle scenes and political intrigue, as well as a strong emphasis on character development and personal growth. However, it should be noted that Code Geass is significantly more science fiction-oriented than Game of Thrones, with a focus on technology and futuristic elements rather than fantasy. Additionally, Code Geass is set in an alternate timeline rather than a traditional fantasy setting.
Attack on Titan (2013–2023)
Attack on Titan is a dark fantasy and action anime series that aired from 2013 to 2023. It is based on the manga series of the same name, which was written and illustrated by Hajime Isayama.
The series is set in a world where humanity is on the brink of extinction due to the appearance of giant humanoid creatures known as Titans. These Titans have no intelligence and seem to exist only to devour humans. In order to protect themselves, humanity built walls around their cities and trained soldiers known as Survey Corps to fight the Titans.
The series follows the story of Eren Yeager, a young man who has vowed to avenge the death of his mother at the hands of Titans and protect his friends and loved ones. Along with his friends Mikasa and Armin, Eren joins the Survey Corps and fights against the Titans in order to uncover the mystery behind their existence and protect humanity.
Attack on Titan shares some similarities with Game of Thrones in that it is set in a dark and grim fantasy world and features a cast of complex and multifaceted characters. Both series also explore themes of power, loyalty, and the consequences of violence. Additionally, both Attack on Titan and Game of Thrones feature intense battle scenes and political intrigue, as well as a strong emphasis on character development and personal growth. However, it should be noted that Attack on Titan is significantly more action-oriented than Game of Thrones, with a focus on fast-paced combat and supernatural elements.
Fate/Zero (2011–2012)
Fate/Zero is a dark fantasy and action anime series that aired from 2011 to 2012. It is based on the light novel series of the same name, which was written by Gen Urobuchi and illustrated by Takashi Takeuchi.
The series is set in a world where mages summon legendary heroes and gods from different time periods and cultures to fight in a battle royale known as the Holy Grail War. The Holy Grail War is a deadly contest in which mages fight to the death to claim the Holy Grail, a magical artifact that is said to be able to grant wishes.
The series follows the story of several mages who participate in the Holy Grail War, including Kiritsugu Emiya, a mercenary who is seeking to use the Holy Grail to bring about world peace, and his opponents, including the ambitious mage Kirei Kotomine. As the mages fight for the Holy Grail, they must confront their own personal demons and grapple with the moral complexities of their actions.
Fate/Zero shares some similarities with Game of Thrones in that it features a cast of complex and multifaceted characters and explores themes of power, loyalty, and the consequences of violence. Both series also feature intense battle scenes and political intrigue, as well as a strong emphasis on character development and personal growth. However, it should be noted that Fate/Zero is significantly more action-oriented and supernatural than Game of Thrones, with a focus on mages and legendary heroes rather than realistic characters.
The Rising of the Shield Hero (2019-)
The Rising of the Shield Hero is a dark fantasy and action anime series that aired in 2019. It is based on the light novel series of the same name, which was written by Aneko Yusagi.
The series follows the story of Naofumi Iwatani, a young man who is summoned to a fantasy world to become one of four legendary heroes tasked with saving the kingdom from destruction. However, Naofumi is falsely accused of a crime and becomes an outcast, forced to fight for his survival and redemption. As he travels through the kingdom, he must confront his own personal demons and grapple with the moral complexities of his role as a hero.
The Rising of the Shield Hero shares some similarities with Game of Thrones in that it features a cast of complex and multifaceted characters and explores themes of power, loyalty, and the consequences of violence. Both series also feature intense battle scenes and political intrigue, as well as a strong emphasis on character development and personal growth. However, it should be noted that The Rising of the Shield Hero is significantly more action-oriented and supernatural than Game of Thrones, with a focus on fantasy elements and traditional hero archetypes.
Death Note (2006–2007)
Death Note is a psychological thriller and action anime series that aired from 2006 to 2007. It is based on the manga series of the same name, which was written and illustrated by Tsugumi Ohba and Takeshi Obata.
The series follows the story of Light Yagami, a brilliant but bored high school student who discovers a mysterious notebook called the “Death Note.” The Death Note is a magical notebook that allows its user to kill anyone whose name is written in it by simply writing the person’s name in its pages. Light becomes obsessed with using the Death Note to rid the world of criminals and becomes a vigilante known as “Kira.” However, his actions attract the attention of a genius detective known as “L,” who is determined to catch Kira and bring him to justice.
Death Note shares some similarities with Game of Thrones in that it features a cast of complex and multifaceted characters and explores themes of power, loyalty, and the consequences of violence. Both series also feature intense battle scenes and political intrigue, as well as a strong emphasis on character development and personal growth. However, it should be noted that Death Note is significantly more psychological and thriller-oriented than Game of Thrones, with a focus on the mental and emotional battles between Light and L rather than traditional action and adventure.
Saga of Tanya the Evil (2017-)
Saga of Tanya the Evil is a dark fantasy and action anime series that aired in 2017. It is based on the light novel series of the same name, which was written by Carlo Zen and illustrated by Shinobu Shinotsuki.
The series is set in an alternate universe where a deity known as “Being X” has intervened in human history and caused a world war to break out. The series follows the story of Tanya Degurechaff, a young officer in the military who has been reincarnated by Being X as a child in order to experience the horrors of war firsthand. Tanya must navigate the ruthless and cutthroat world of the military as she strives to climb the ranks and find a way to defeat Being X and escape her reincarnation.
Saga of Tanya the Evil shares some similarities with Game of Thrones in that it is set in a dark and grim fantasy world and features a cast of complex and multifaceted characters. Both series also explore themes of power, loyalty, and the consequences of violence. Additionally, both Saga of Tanya the Evil and Game of Thrones feature intense battle scenes and political intrigue, as well as a strong emphasis on character development and personal growth. However, it should be noted that Saga of Tanya the Evil is significantly more action-oriented and supernatural than Game of Thrones, with a focus on fantasy elements and traditional hero archetypes.
Record of Grancrest War (2018)
Record of Grancrest War is a dark fantasy and action anime series that aired in 2018. It is based on the light novel series of the same name, which was written by Ryo Mizuno and illustrated by Miyuu.
The series is set in a world where mages known as “lords” wield powerful magical artifacts known as “crests” and are responsible for maintaining order and peace. However, many lords are corrupt and abuse their power, leading to conflict and unrest. The series follows the story of Siluca Meletes, a young mage who is determined to reform the world and bring peace to the land. She teams up with a wandering knight named Theo Cornaro and sets out on a quest to unite the lords under a banner of reform and defeat the corrupt forces that threaten the world.
Record of Grancrest War shares some similarities with Game of Thrones in that it features a cast of complex and multifaceted characters and explores themes of power, loyalty, and the consequences of violence. Both series also feature intense battle scenes and political intrigue, as well as a strong emphasis on character development and personal growth. However, it should be noted that Record of Grancrest War is significantly more action-oriented and supernatural than Game of Thrones, with a focus on fantasy elements and traditional hero archetypes.
Sword Art Online (2012-)
Sword Art Online is a science fiction and action anime series that aired in 2012. It is based on the light novel series of the same name, which was written by Reki Kawahara and illustrated by Abec.
The series is set in a future where virtual reality MMORPGs are a common form of entertainment. The series follows the story of Kirito, a skilled player who becomes trapped in a virtual reality game called Sword Art Online. In the game, players are unable to log out and are forced to fight their way through its 100 levels in order to escape. As Kirito battles to survive in the game and find a way out, he must confront his own personal demons and grapple with the moral complexities of his actions.
Sword Art Online shares some similarities with Game of Thrones in that it features a cast of complex and multifaceted characters and explores themes of power, loyalty, and the consequences of violence. Both series also feature intense battle scenes and political intrigue, as well as a strong emphasis on character development and personal growth. However, it should be noted that Sword Art Online is significantly more science fiction-oriented than Game of Thrones, with a focus on virtual reality and futuristic elements rather than fantasy.
No Game, No Life (2014-)
No Game, No Life is a dark fantasy and action anime series that aired in 2014. It is based on the light novel series of the same name, which was written by Yū Kamiya.
The series follows the story of Sora and Shiro, a pair of siblings who are known as the unbeatable gaming duo “Blank.” They are summoned to a parallel world where all conflicts are resolved through games and are challenged to become the rulers of the world by the god of games, Tet. As they journey through the world and participate in various games, they must confront their own personal demons and grapple with the moral complexities of their actions.
No Game, No Life shares some similarities with Game of Thrones in that it features a cast of complex and multifaceted characters and explores themes of power, loyalty, and the consequences of violence. Both series also feature intense battle scenes and political intrigue, as well as a strong emphasis on character development and personal growth. However, it should be noted that No Game, No Life is significantly more light-hearted and action-oriented than Game of Thrones, with a focus on adventure and power fantasy rather than grim realism. Additionally, No Game, No Life is set in a fantasy world where conflicts are resolved through games rather than traditional warfare.
Tower of God (2020)
Tower of God is a dark fantasy and action anime series that aired in 2020. It is based on the webtoon of the same name, which was written and illustrated by SIU.
The series is set in a world where a massive tower serves as the gateway to the rest of the world and only those who pass a series of tests and challenges are allowed to ascend it. The series follows the story of Bam, a young man who enters the tower in search of his best friend Rachel, who has disappeared inside it. As Bam climbs the tower and battles his way through its various levels, he must confront his own personal demons and grapple with the moral complexities of his actions.
Tower of God shares some similarities with Game of Thrones in that it features a cast of complex and multifaceted characters and explores themes of power, loyalty, and the consequences of violence. Both series also feature intense battle scenes and political intrigue, as well as a strong emphasis on character development and personal growth. However, it should be noted that Tower of God is significantly more action-oriented and supernatural than Game of Thrones, with a focus on fantasy elements and traditional hero archetypes.
Rurouni Kenshin (1996–1998)
Rurouni Kenshin is a historical and action anime series that aired from 1996 to 1998. It is based on the manga series of the same name, which was written and illustrated by Nobuhiro Watsuki.
The series is set in Japan during the Meiji period, a time of great political and social upheaval. The series follows the story of Kenshin Himura, a former assassin who has turned his back on violence and become a wanderer. Kenshin travels through Japan and encounters various people who are struggling to cope with the changes brought about by the Meiji government, including a young woman named Kaoru Kamiya, who is trying to protect her dojo from being taken over by a rival school. As Kenshin battles to protect his friends and uphold his beliefs, he must confront his own personal demons and grapple with the moral complexities of his past actions.
Rurouni Kenshin shares some similarities with Game of Thrones in that it features a cast of complex and multifaceted characters and explores themes of power, loyalty, and the consequences of violence. Both series also feature intense battle scenes and political intrigue, as well as a strong emphasis on character development and personal growth. However, it should be noted that Rurouni Kenshin is significantly more historical and action-oriented than Game of Thrones, with a focus on the samurai and sword fighting rather than fantasy elements.
Made in Abyss (2017-)
Made in Abyss is a dark fantasy and action anime series that aired in 2017. It is based on the manga series of the same name, which was written and illustrated by Akihito Tsukushi.
The series is set in a world where a massive, unexplored chasm known as the “Abyss ” serves as the source of many ancient artifacts and mysterious creatures. The series follows the story of Riko, a young girl who is determined to follow in the footsteps of her mother, a famous cave raider who disappeared in the Abyss. Along with her friend Reg, Riko embarks on a journey to the bottom of the Abyss in search of her mother and the truth about the mysterious place.
Made in Abyss shares some similarities with Game of Thrones in that it features a cast of complex and multifaceted characters and explores themes of power, loyalty, and the consequences of violence. Both series also feature intense battle scenes and political intrigue, as well as a strong emphasis on character development and personal growth. However, it should be noted that Made in Abyss is significantly more action-oriented and supernatural than Game of Thrones, with a focus on fantasy elements and traditional hero archetypes. Additionally, Made in Abyss is set in a fantasy world with a focus on adventure and exploration rather than political machinations.
Grimgar, Ashes and Illusions (2016)
Grimgar, Ashes and Illusions is a dark fantasy and action anime series that aired in 2016. It is based on the light novel series of the same name, which was written by Ao Jūmonji and illustrated by Eiri Shirai.
The series is set in a world where a group of young people find themselves mysteriously transported to a fantasy world and are forced to fight for their survival. The series follows the story of Haruhiro, a young man who is struggling to adapt to life in the new world and find his place in the group. As they journey through the world and confront various challenges, the group must confront their own personal demons and grapple with the moral complexities of their actions.
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Grimgar, Ashes and Illusions shares some similarities with Game of Thrones in that it features a cast of complex and multifaceted characters and explores themes of power, loyalty, and the consequences of violence. Both series also feature intense battle scenes and political intrigue, as well as a strong emphasis on character development and personal growth. However, it should be noted that Grimgar, Ashes and Illusions is significantly more action-oriented and supernatural than Game of Thrones, with a focus on fantasy elements and traditional hero archetypes. Additionally, Grimgar, Ashes and Illusions is set in a fantasy world where the characters are forced to fight for their survival rather than political intrigue being the main focus.
Kingdom (2012-)
Kingdom is a historical and action anime series that aired in 2012. It is based on the manga series of the same name, which was written and illustrated by Yasuhisa Hara.
The series is set in ancient China during the Warring States period, a time of great political and social upheaval. The series follows the story of Xin, a young orphan who is determined to become a great general and unite China under his banner. As he journeys through the country and battles to survive in the cutthroat world of the military, Xin must confront his own personal demons and grapple with the moral complexities of his actions.
Kingdom shares some similarities with Game of Thrones in that it features a cast of complex and multifaceted characters and explores themes of power, loyalty, and the consequences of violence. Both series also feature intense battle scenes and political intrigue, as well as a strong emphasis on character development and personal growth. However, it should be noted that Kingdom is significantly more historical and action-oriented than Game of Thrones, with a focus on ancient Chinese military tactics and political machinations rather than fantasy elements.
