If you love Game of Thrones for its complex characters, political intrigue, and intense battles, you’re not alone. While Game of Thrones is a live-action series, the anime below capture that same epic feeling, full of gripping drama and power struggles that keep you hooked.
1. Attack on Titan
If you’re into Game of Thrones for the huge battles and crazy plot twists, Attack on Titan is right up your alley. The show is about people living behind giant walls, trying to survive attacks from enormous Titans who want to eat them. The story slowly reveals dark secrets about their world, kind of like how Westeros hides plenty of mysteries.
Fun fact: the manga sold over 140 million copies worldwide, making it one of the best-selling manga series of all time. The mix of scary monsters, political drama, and complex characters makes it super addictive, with that same intense “who’s really good or bad?” feeling GoT fans love.
2. Berserk
Think of Berserk as the original dark fantasy that set the mood for shows like Game of Thrones. It’s brutal, violent, and full of twisted demons and messy power struggles. This manga has been running since the late ’80s and still influences fantasy stories today.
If you enjoy GoT’s grim tone and tragic characters, Berserk will totally scratch that itch. The story doesn’t pull punches and can get really heavy, so it’s definitely not a light watch — but for those who like dark fantasy done right, it’s a masterpiece.
3. Vinland Saga
If the Viking vibes and gritty northern atmosphere in Game of Thrones hooked you, then Vinland Saga is a perfect fit. It follows a young warrior’s journey through revenge, loyalty, and brutal battles in a harsh world.
The story is slow-burning and thoughtful, with realistic fight scenes and emotional depth. It’s like watching Westeros history come alive, but with a real Viking twist. It’s based on actual history and is praised for its storytelling and animation, making it a strong pick if you want drama mixed with raw, realistic action.
4. Code Geass
Don’t let the giant robots fool you — Code Geass is really about politics, rebellion, and power plays, just like Game of Thrones. The main character, Lelouch, is a genius who uses his smarts and a mysterious power to try and take down a tyrannical empire. The show is packed with alliances that shift constantly, betrayals, and surprising twists.
Moreover, the anime has that same “who’s really in control?” energy GoT fans love, plus some intense emotional moments. In a nutshell, it’s a fast-paced political thriller wrapped in an anime mecha style.
5. Claymore
Claymore is a dark medieval fantasy about warrior women hunting demons in a brutal world — think Game of Thrones meets supernatural monster hunting. The show dives into themes of loyalty, betrayal, and survival in a cold, harsh world. The battles are intense, and the story explores what it means to be human or monster.
It’s a bit under the radar compared to others, but delivers solid action and drama. If you like your fantasy dark with a mix of politics and supernatural danger, Claymore is definitely worth a watch.
6. The Rising of the Shield Hero
This one nails the underdog and betrayal themes that GoT fans can really relate to. The Shield Hero starts off misunderstood and shunned but grows stronger while fighting corrupt systems and monsters. It blends action with social drama and character growth, showing how trust and betrayal shape people. It’s surprisingly grounded for a fantasy, focusing on resilience and revenge.
The Rising of the Shield Hero shares with Game of Thrones a knack for mixing heavy themes and exciting battles, perfect for anyone who enjoys stories of rising against the odds with a side of political intrigue.
7. Akame ga Kill!
If you want that “no one is safe” feeling from Game of Thrones, Akame ga Kill! delivers it full force. The story follows a group of assassins fighting to overthrow a corrupt empire, and it’s packed with fast-paced action and emotional punches. People drop unexpectedly, keeping you on edge.
Akame ga Kill has a dark tone with plenty of shocking moments, making it feel like GoT’s high-stakes violence but in anime form. So, if you are prepared for some heartbreak and drama, this show is a must-see.
8. Kingdom
If you enjoy epic wars and political schemes like in Game of Thrones, Kingdom is a fantastic choice. Set in ancient China, it follows a war orphan who dreams of becoming the greatest general. The show is known for its realistic, brutal battle scenes and clever strategies, making the conflicts feel very intense and immersive.
The manga has sold over 20 million copies, showing just how popular the story is. Additionally, not only does it fit the GoT genres—history and fantasy—but it also has the same elements we enjoyed in it, like lots of character growth and political intrigue.
9. Goblin Slayer
For those who like their fantasy dark and gritty like Game of Thrones, Goblin Slayer is a solid pick. The main character is obsessed with hunting goblins after a personal tragedy, and the show doesn’t sugarcoat the brutality of those fights. It sparked some controversy for its intense scenes but gained fans for its serious take on dark fantasy battles.
That said, for those seeking no-nonsense action and a world that feels dangerous and unforgiving, Goblin Slayer is a perfect fit.
10. Fate/Zero
Fate/Zero blends magic, epic battles, and political drama in a way that Game of Thrones fans will appreciate. Seven mages summon legendary heroes to fight for the Holy Grail, creating intense alliances and betrayals.
The show is known for its mature storytelling and deep character conflicts, with stunning animation and philosophical themes. For fans of magic and complicated power struggles, this dark fantasy offers plenty of clever strategies and emotional depth.
