Naruto was a long-running anime series loved and known by both enthusiasts and casual viewers alike. It helped define what shounen was, following an epic story, full of action, great characters, humor, and thought-provoking moments. And it’s a series every new anime fan should check out.
What are some good anime like Naruto? Well, we created this list of similar anime to Naruto. If like us, you’ve watched everything the series offers, or you’re just watching it and looking for more series like it. Here’s our 20 Best Anime Like Naruto, with bonus mentions, you’ll also love.
Anime Shows Similar to Naruto
25.
Nintama Rantarou
- Episodes: 2321+
- Aired: Apr 10, 1993 to Present
- Theme(s): Comedy, Kids
In Ninja Gakuen ninjas-in-training Rantarou, Shinbei, and Kirimaru dream of becoming first-class ninjas, but money, food, or playing usually end up creating chaos and adventures for the trio, teachers, classmates, rivals, and even family members of the cast.
Similarity
Both series follow children that are training to become ninjas, though the latter takes a lighter tone, even though both series protagonists have the same goal of being the strongest. Both series also has a large cast of lovable and memorable characters.
Also, with each episode being just 10 minutes long and the plot being episodic it’s an easy entry-level anime to just pick up and watch.
24.
Soul Eater
- Episodes: 51
- Aired: Apr 7, 2008 to Mar 30, 2009
- Theme(s): Action, Comedy, Fantasy, Supernatural
The story follows Maka, a student at the famous Death Weapon Meister Academy. She’s a scythe wielder and her partner, Soul, transforms into the scythe she uses. She and other students like Death the Kid, Black Star along with their teachers and weapons fight the various demons and witches who want to destroy or take over the world.
Similarity
Both series have characters training or looking for how to get stronger. Both series have elements of comedy, action, and romance. Both also have rivalry between their characters that seem to hate each other and constantly try to beat each other, but when it comes down to working together, the characters make an unstoppable force.
23.
The Law of Ueki
- Title: Ueki no Housoku
- Episodes: 51
- Aired: Spring 2005
- Theme(s): Action, Adventure, Comedy, Drama, Supernatural, Super Power
God has created a tournament, to decide who will take his place as the ruler of heaven. God candidates must pick a middle school student, and transfer their powers to them, to battle others, representing their God Candidates. The winning candidate becomes the new god and the fighter reward is the blank talent, which gives one unique ability. However, some want the reward for evil. Enter Kousuke Ueki, with his power to turn trash into trees fighting to protect his friends and the reward.
Similarity
Both series have themes of friendship, comedy action, and special abilities. Both anime have a great storyline and main characters looking to get stronger and become the best. Most of the battles fought in both are done with interesting strategies to defeat enemies.
22.
Reborn!
- Title: Katekyo Hitman Reborn!
- Episodes: 203
- Aired: Oct 7, 2006 to Sep 25, 2010
- Theme(s): Action, Comedy, Crime, Super Power
One day, Tsunayoshi Sawada’s life changes completely after meeting with the baby mafioso and assassin Reborn, who starts training Tsuna into becoming the 10th Boss of the Vongola Italian mafia family. With the help of all his new friends and an array of special items such as the “Dying Will Bullet”, he might just be able to do it.
Similarity
Both series protagonists start as underdogs but slowly improve, becoming strong and leaders in their world either voluntarily or reluctantly. Both series though being action-oriented with over-the-top combat, comedy also makes up a big part of their themes. Both also take time to explain their worlds, characters’ backstory, and motives.
21.
D.Gray-man
- Episodes: 102
- Aired: Oct 3, 2006 to Sep 30, 2008
- Theme(s): Action, Adventure, Comedy, Mythology, Super Power
Allen Walker becomes cursed after he turns his dead relative, and father figure into an Akuma, by the evil Millennium Earl. After being found by General Cross, an exorcist of the Black Order, and making him his apprentice. Cross sends him to the Black Order to be trained and become a full-fledged exorcist. Now Allen and his fellow exorcists begin their fight to uncover and stop the Millennium Earl’s ultimate plot.
Similarity
Both series have a similar overall feeling, with characters with unique abilities, fighting with their friends against enemies and an organization that protects their world. Both series though being about action have comedy and deep emotional moments mixed in that make both enjoyable to watch.
20.
Bleach
- Episodes: 366
- Aired: Oct 5, 2004 to Mar 27, 2012
- Theme(s): Action, Adventure, Fantasy
Ichigo Kurosaki has always seen ghosts, but this ability doesn’t change his life nearly as much as his close encounter with Rukia Kuchiki, a Soul Reaper and member of the mysterious Soul Society. While fighting a Hollow, an evil spirit that preys on humans who display psychic energy, Rukia attempts to lend Ichigo some of her powers so that he can save his family, but much to her surprise, Ichigo absorbs every drop of her energy. Now a full-fledged Soul Reaper himself, Ichigo quickly learns that the world he inhabits is one full of danger.
Similarity
Bleach is an anime similar to Naruto, thanks to its over-the-top action scenes, supernatural themes, memorable characters, humor, a ranking system for fighters, world-building, similar art style, and great character development.
19.
Dragon Ball
- Episodes: 153
- Aired: Feb 26, 1986 to Apr 12, 1989
- Theme(s): Adventure, Comedy, Fantasy, Martial Arts, Super Power
Accompany Goku and Bulma on their search for the seven dragon balls, helping and meeting many interesting and memorable characters along the way. Bulma wishes to use the balls to grant her wish for the perfect boyfriend, while Goku tags along on her journey to see the world and help her fend off those who would try to abuse the legendary power.
Similarity
Both anime are shounen and are focused on a very strong protagonist, who usually defeats his enemies with ease. They have a lot of action and fights, but also a lot of lighthearted comedic moments. Both series also have a great plot, art, and our characters searching for ways to be stronger.
18.
Peace Maker Kurogane
- Episodes: 24
- Aired: Oct 8, 2003 to Mar 24, 2004
- Theme(s): Action, Comedy, Historical, Samurai
Peace Maker Kurogane is a loosely based historical action series based around the Shinsengumi; the Japanese police force active in the Edo period. The story follows Tetsunosuke, a young boy who wants to join the Shinsengumi to avenge the death of his parents. But because of his short stature, bratty personality, and lack of experience, they assign him to be the personal servant. With the help of his ever-supportive brother and newfound friends in and outside the Shinsengumi, he learns what a true swordsman is.
Similarity
Both series protagonists have similar personalities and mannerisms, with both also losing their parents at a very young age. Both series also have pretty engaging storylines, balancing serious topics, comedy, and the edge of your seat action scenes perfectly.
17.
Ninkuu
- Episodes: 55
- Aired: Jan 14, 1995 to Feb 24, 1996
- Theme(s): Action, Adventure, Comedy, Martial arts
Fuusuke, though childlike in appearance, is one of the strongest ninjas in the world. Embarks on a quest with both his old and new comrades he meets along the way to save his kidnapped mother and the country from the evil imperial army that controls it.
Similarity
Both series have their characters face challenges along the way they must overcome, like being misunderstood and feared by others. Both are also very character-rich focused with both series having a large cast of interesting and easily distinguishable characters that keep you interested in seeing how their story goes.
16.
Slam Dunk
- Episodes: 101
- Aired: Oct 16, 1993 to Mar 23, 1996
- Theme(s): Sports, School
When infamous and hot-tempered Hanamichi Sakuragi starts playing basketball to impress a girl named Haruko Akagi, he slowly finds himself drawn into the camaraderie and competition of the sport he had previously held resentment for.
Similarity
Similar to Naruto, Slam Dunk infuses the same feelings of amazement, with both series at first not being something you know you need (sounding cheesy) but end up being something you want more of. Both series also have similar main characters, humor, and surprising depth to them.
15.
Saiyuki Reload Blast
- Episodes: 12
- Aired: Jul 5, 2017 to Sep 20, 2017
- Theme(s): Action, Adventure, Comedy, Drama, Mythology, Supernatural
The third installment continues the adapted Chinese folk story with Sanzou, Gokuu, Hakkai, and Gojou reaching the end of their journey to the west to stop demons from resurrecting Gyumao and restore the balance between humans and demons on Earth. What will they find at the end?
One nice thing about the series is you don’t necessarily have to have watched the previous seasons to be able to understand and follow the plot.
Similarity
Both series have characters with inhuman powers within them that people fear, being sent on missions that lead to over-the-top battles for the peace of the city, state, country, or world. Both series, though serious, still have plenty of humor and beautifully done themes on friendship.
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14.
Blue Exorcist
- Title: Ao no Exorcist
- Episodes: 25
- Aired: Apr 17, 2011 to Oct 2, 2011
- Theme(s): Action, Fantasy, Mythology, School
After a fight with his foster father Shirou Fujimoto, Rin Okumura’s life is transformed overnight when Rin is revealed to be the son of the demon lord Satan, king of the demonic realm of Gehenna. Soon after, his foster father becomes possessed and dies at the hands of Satan, leaving Rin and his twin brother Yukio alone in the world. Seeking revenge for Fujimoto’s death, Rin attends True Cross Academy with Yukio to become an exorcist and join the Knights of the True Cross.
Similarity
Blue Exorcist is another interesting shounen like Naruto, with similar protagonists that love to help others. Both protagonists live a fairly normal life until they unlock something unnatural in themselves. Both series have characters that are in a group that focuses on keeping the world safe. Both have supernatural themes, relatable characters, and amazing action scenes.
13.
Nabari no Ou
- Episodes: 26
- Aired: Apr 7, 2008 to Sep 29, 2008
- Theme(s): Action, Comedy, Drama, Fantasy, Supernatural
Silent, apathetic, yet mischievous, 14-year-old Miharu Rokujou has a forbidden ninja art called the Shinrabanshou inside him, a skill that gives him the ability to grant wishes. With many ninja clans desiring his ability. Miharu will have to face the underground ninja world, with the help of his fellow ninja club members.
Similarity
Similar to Naruto, Nabari no Ou’s protagonist also has immense, possibly dark power hidden inside and is also seen as worthless at the beginning. Both series deal with themes of loneliness, conflict, and bonds created between characters.
12.
Katanagatari
- Episodes: 12
- Aired: Jan 26, 2010 to Dec 11, 2010
- Theme(s): Action, Adventure, Historical, Martial Arts, Romance
The story follows Shichika Yasuri, a swordsman that uses his own body like a blade, and his companion the strategist Togame, who has been ordered by the shogunate to retrieve 12 unique swords, and Shinchika smitten by her, helps her on her dangerous mission.
Similarity
Katanagatari’s similarities to Naruto are in its combat and over-the-top battles. Both series also place a lot of emphasis on characters’ developmental growth, with characters becoming more relatable and loved with each interaction. Both series have great art, deep and absorbing plots.
11.
Saint Seiya: Knights of the Zodiac
- Episodes: 114
- Aired: Oct 11, 1986 to Apr 1, 1989
- Theme(s): Adventure, Fantasy, Sci-Fi
The story follows the Saints, a group of young men who devote their lives to protecting Athena and the earth from gods whose wishes are to do away with humanity. Using the power of the cosmos a swing of their fist can rip the sky apart and shatter the earth beneath them.
Similarity
Being an old series, most shounen anime have been heavily influenced by Knights of the Zodiac. We see both series protagonists as no good but slowly come to overcome their shortcomings and earn the respect of their world. Both series also have their characters using the power within them to do battle.
10.
Yu Yu Hakusho: Ghost Files
- Title: Yuu☆Yuu☆Hakusho
- Episodes: 112
- Aired: Oct 10, 1992 to Jan 7, 1995
- Theme(s): Action, Comedy, Martial Arts, Mythology, Supernatural
A 14-year-old delinquent Yuusuke Urameshi dies while saving a kid who was going to be run over. Now in the afterlife, Yusuke is a ghost with a mission, performing good deeds and becoming a spirit detective charged with investigating supernatural activities in the world at the behest of Botan, the pacifier-sucking judge of the dead to regain his life.
Similarity
Yu Yu Hakusho is another similar anime to Naruto, with its art style, the lovable main cast of characters, fearsome supernatural entities, beautiful fight scenes, themes of friendship, determination, and a well-done world-building.
9.
Radiant
- Episodes: 21
- Aired: Oct 6, 2018 to Feb 23, 2019
- Theme(s): Action, Adventure, Fantasy
The story is about Seth, a boy who gets cursed by Nemesis, a powerful and mysterious demonic entities. He becomes a sorcerer, one of the few people that can combat these creatures. Seth sets out on an adventure to exterminate all the Nemeses that threaten the world while avoiding the Inquisition, an organization dedicated to the eradication of Sorcerers.
Similarity
Both series protagonists are similar, both being thought of as monsters and isolated by the common people. Despite that, both characters still try to save these people from the threats they face, easily making friends and allies because of their personalities. They also have similar goals of being the greatest of their kind.
8.
The God of Highschool
- Episodes: 13
- Aired: Jul 6, 2020 to Sep 28, 2020
- Theme(s): Action, Fantasy, Martial Arts, Sci-Fi, Supernatural
The “God of High School” is a fierce competition held between Korean high school students to determine the best fighter among them. All styles of martial arts and weapons are allowed. The ultimate prize? The winner’s deepest desire will be granted, no matter the cost.
Similarity
The God of Highschool like Naruto is a stylish shounen anime, with three main characters each with their backstory, a strong protagonist that doesn’t know his strength, an evil nemesis that’s always scheming, and like in Naruto, The God of Highschool is an anime like Naruto that keeps you at the edge of your seat with its fights, dialogue, and presentation of its world.
7.
Jujutsu Kaisen (TV)
- Episodes: 24
- Aired: Oct 3, 2020 to Mar 27, 2021
- Theme(s): Action, Fantasy, School
Hidden in plain sight, an age-old conflict rages on. Supernatural monsters known as “Curses” terrorize humanity from the shadows, and powerful humans known as “Jujutsu” sorcerers use mystical arts to exterminate them. When high school student Yuuji Itadori finds a dried-up finger of the legendary Curse Sukuna Ryoumen, he suddenly joins this bloody conflict.
Similarity
Both protagonists have a powerful being inside them that tries to take control of their bodies and a senior white-haired senpai. Both protagonists also fight to help others and don’t get me started on the bromance and rivalry. Both series also have a lovable, relatable, and supporting cast of characters that help the protagonist along.
6.
Hunter x Hunter (2011)
- Episodes: 148
- Aired: Oct 2, 2011 to Sep 24, 2014
- Theme(s): Action, Adventure, Fantasy, Super Power
The plot follows 12-year-old Gon Freecss, who takes part in a Hunter Exam which has several strange and difficult tests with the hope of finding his missing father. On the road, he meets his friends Kurapika, Killua, and Leorio. And While their motives vastly differ from each other, they band together for a common goal and begin to venture into a perilous world.
Similarity
Both series have unique use of powers, amazing world-building, lovable characters, and just the way it balances its more serious moments with lighthearted ones is great. Both series also have amazing visuals and a similar sense of adventure, with characters moving from one location to another.
5.
Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba
- Title: Kimetsu no Yaiba
- Episodes: 26
- Aired: Apr 6, 2019 to Sep 28, 2019
- Theme(s): Action, Fantasy, Historical
Tanjirou Kamado lives with his impoverished family on a remote mountain. As the oldest sibling, he took upon the responsibility of ensuring his family’s livelihood after the death of his father. On a cold winter day, he goes down to the local village to sell some charcoal. As dusk falls, he is forced to spend the night in the house of a curious man who cautions him of strange creatures that roam the night: malevolent demons who crave human flesh.
Similarity
Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba, like Naruto’s protagonist, are orphans who train to their limits to gain strength to achieve the goals that others think are unattainable to them. Both series have a supernatural theme and both have elite groups that work in the shadows. Both also have great OSTs, characters, world-building, and stories.
4.
Ranking of Kings
- Title: Ousama Ranking
- Episodes: 23
- Aired: Oct 15, 2021 to Mar 25, 2022
- Theme(s): Adventure, Fantasy
A classic underdog story that follows Boji, a young prince who is deaf, mute, and considerably weaker than most kids his age. First in line to inherit the throne after his giant father king Bosse; the problem is, no one takes him seriously. Citizens and knights consider him a weakling unable to carry the crown. Upon meeting his only friend, a shadow creature named Kage, his journey to claim the throne begins.
Similarity
Both series have a coming-of-age theme, with characters trying to become better. And though both have some amazing action, both still have heartwarming tear-jerking wholesome moments. Both protagonists are sacrificed at a young age for the betterment of others. Everyone sees both series protagonists as no good, but are quite capable. Both also see their main character befriending an otherworldly being.
3.
One Piece
- Episodes: 1014+
- Aired: Oct 20, 1999 to Present
- Theme(s): Action, Adventure, Fantasy
As a child, Monkey D. Luffy dreamed of becoming the King of the Pirates. Now Luffy, with the help of a motley collection of Nakama, set sail in search of “One Piece,” said to be the greatest treasure in the world. While helping each other accomplish their dreams, they find themselves in many epic adventures.
Similarity
Both series have a lot to offer from supernatural powers, amazing fights scenes, well-developed and lovable characters, and voyages to new and exciting places. Both series have a similar vibe that just keeps you invested in seeing where the characters’ stories end.
2.
My Hero Academia
- Title: Boku no Hero Academia
- Episodes: 13
- Aired: Apr 3, 2016 to Jun 26, 2016
- Theme(s): Action, Comedy, School, Super Power
In the world of My Hero Academia, it’s usual for people to have superpowers which are called quirks. With that, evil villains and heroes emerged. Our protagonist, Izuku Midoriya, wants to become the best hero in the world like All Might. But he discovered that he is quirkless. But thanks to a chance encounter his journey to becoming the world’s strongest hero begins.
Similarity
Both series are shounen, having battles that are more tactically focused, with both being able to keep the audience on the edge of their seats, and having cool characters with ridiculous but creative powers.
1.
Black Clover
- Episodes: 170
- Aired: Oct 3, 2017 to Mar 30, 2021
- Theme(s): Action, Comedy, Fantasy
Two orphan children, Asta and Yuno are left as babies near the doorstep of a church on the outside border of the Clover Kingdom. The story follows Asta mostly, a young boy who’s born without magical powers, while he tries to gain magical powers and the talent to control them. We watch him go from laughingstock to the literal savior of the kingdom.
Similarity
Black Clover, like Naruto, has a similar fantasy world full of magic or chakra. Both protagonists have a similar physical build, with both series characters being in a sort of military unit made to protect the people. Both series have themes of rivalry between friends, fan service, comedy, action, and surprisingly deep emotional moments.
Bonus Mentions
Shounen Ninja Kaze no Fujimaru
- Episodes: 65
- Aired: Jun 7, 1964 to Aug 31, 1965
- Theme(s): Action, Adventure, Samurai
Sword Art Online
- Episodes: 25
- Aired: Jul 8, 2012 to Dec 23, 2012
- Theme(s): Action, Adventure, Fantasy, Game, Romance
Igano Kabamaru
- Episodes: 24
- Aired: Oct 20, 1983 to Mar 29, 1984
- Theme(s): Action, Adventure, Comedy, Romance, School
Scissor Seven
- Title: Cike Wu Liuqi
- Episodes: 10
- Aired: Apr 25, 2018 to Jun 20, 2018
- Theme(s): Action, Comedy, Drama, Martial Arts, Mystery, Romance, Super Power
Ninja Hattori-kun
- Episodes: 694
- Aired: Sep 28, 1981 to Dec 25, 1987
- Theme(s): Comedy, Slice of Life, Martial Arts
Haikyu!!
- Episodes: 25
- Aired: Apr 6, 2014 to Sep 21, 2014
- Theme(s): School, Sports
Cowboy Bebop
- Episodes: 26
- Aired: Apr 3, 1998 to Apr 24, 1999
- Theme(s): Action, Sci-Fi, Space
Fairy Tail
- Episodes: 175
- Aired: Oct 12, 2009 to Mar 30, 2013
- Theme(s): Action, Adventure, Comedy, Fantasy
Basilisk: Kouga Ninpou Chou
- Episodes: 24
- Aired: Apr 13, 2005 to Sep 21, 2005
- Theme(s): Action, Adventure, Fantasy, Historical, Romance, Samurai, Supernatural
And we are done! Leave us a comment and let us know what you think about our list, are there any you think should have made the list? What were your favorite or least favorite ones on our list? If you’re not subscribed now’s the best time to do so. We upload brand new content every Saturday of the week. The best way to see them first is of course to subscribe.
Till next time… Remember admitting our weakness makes room for strength.
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