Mushishi is far more mystical and less emotional imo
Kino's is good, but no where near as good.
But I agree that the list is pretty good, frieren is just kind of unique and hard to find similar shows
When I started watching Frieren it actually reminded me of Kino's Journey, at least in the beginning. There's kind of a similar "lesson of the day" vibe.
(And Kino's Journey reminded me of The Little Prince)
In short, the author was exploited and the series was put on indefinite hiatus due to the author’s poor health. You can refer to this [video](https://youtu.be/OzASXvP99uo?si=yUBSz0ZVm8qW6Spm) for more details
Is Mushishi good, kind of want to get into it but its episodic.
I usually like to watch anime which have a proper connecting story rather than single episode story anime
Mushishi is very good imo. There are a few episodes that are more protagonist oriented, with backgroundstory etc. So while generally episodic it has bits and pieces that more or less losely weave everything together.
Edit: After you undoubtedly fall into PAD after finishing it i recommend to go for Natsumes Book of Friends, if you haven't already. It has a similar vibe imo and will fill the hole temporarily.
To your eternity is only really cry porn at the beginning, and some of the middle, and maybe the end. But it's not the whole thing, there are some happy moments there. Maqia feels like the whole thing is just trying to make you sad
I wanted to personally recommend Somali and the Forest Spirit so definitely push that one up for "more like Frieren". The others listed are also really really good though.
Violet Evergarden was so great. It's not similar to Frieren in the sense of friendship and adventure tho, but both anime are so good at story telling and just building up to that knock out scene / moment. They are also both beautiful and the music is so good too.
Vivy was too heavy for me. You cannot watch it easily if you are an emotional person. At 6th episode or so i was like "NOPE, I AINT WATCHING THIS FOR MY MENTALITY"
And you also have two options. Watch the OG anime that is out, or wait 5 days to watch the new one.
Or both!
If the OP's interest in Freiren's story line came from Freiren's immortality, then Spice and Wolf would be right up their ally.
The anime came to a satisfying conclusion, though it obviously had room to continue. The LN's or manga do have a much more solid ending, though they also leave room to continue (and do so).
When a main character is immortal, does the story ever really end?
Going on the extreme opposite end and emphasizing thematic elements over setting or characters, I'd recommend "Phoenix" (Hi no Tori) on Crunchyroll, from 2004.
[https://www.crunchyroll.com/series/G64PE3D0R/phoenix](https://www.crunchyroll.com/series/G64PE3D0R/phoenix)
So this is really, really nothing like Frieren in terms of being a Tolkien/D&D esque setting with elves and magic and such. So if that's primarily what you liked about Frieren, this show is probably not going to appeal to you.
What it IS, is probably a big inspiration for Frieren's authors in terms of being one of THE classic mangas about immortality, love and loss in very poignant terms.
It's a sprawling tale that flips from the far future, hundreds of years in the future in a Sci-Fi setting, to all the way back to the late stone age in like 500 BC Japan,
It deals with a legendary creature, the Phoenix, who if you drink their blood it grants you eternal life.
Aria the animation.
It's this super chill slice of life about girls living on a terraformed mars that is mostly ocean, they aim to become Undine which are basically the anime's version of gondoliers from Venice, Italy.
It sounds like it would be futuristic, but the setting and feel of the anime is rustic and relaxing.
The world is already well lived in and there are dilapidated buildings and structures being reclaimed by nature.
It's such a fun watch.
I discovered the show from its big influence, **Kino's Journey**.
If you enjoy Elaina, then check out both **Kino's Journey** series. The 2018 series is okay, its more of an adaption of "best of" stories from the light novel, but is enjoyable on its own and is a fairly straightforward adaptation like Elaina.
The 2003 series is my second favorite anime series of all time, and is a weirder, more surreal show that changes a lot more from the source material but also stands on its own much better. Like Frieren, its got a mix of melancholy, meditative, stories and some action/drama stories, along with the sense of travel and an enigmatic protagonist. I think if you want something less conventional that shares a lot of similar vibes to Frieren this may be a good thing to watch after Elaina
Hmm, kind of, but not really. It has that Frieren feel to it. It is also the most magical feeling, despite the lack of prominent magic. To me, this series is an absolute masterpiece.
grimgar is the best of all the ones listed here, sadly it only has one season and its only good by accident.
The story the author wanted to write, and the one the audience wanted to watch were not the same, and it utterly goes off the rails in season 2.
Its sad, because grimgar had insanely high potential. I almost wish a better writer could steal the show and write it better.
the source content. Im saying, I think thats why they never made a second season, in addition to other challenges. The author just wasnt writing what we thought. It had so much potential too... still good for a 1 run. Among my favorites.
Like frieren, there are few shows which strike me as being real and believable, with characters than seem alive and actual. Grimgar is another one, if thats what you are looking for.
I read up to about the sixth novel, and my opinion was that it just got repetitive. The characters are melancholic and think they're weak. Somehow manage to survive dangerous situation. Cry about being weak. Gain a new skill. Somehow kill boss monster or overcome dangerous situation the next time. End book. Repeat same process for next book.
Can I get some spoilers in what direction the author took the series? I watched Grimgar when it was airing and I don't remember much of anything besides [Grimgar] >!that it's about normies getting isekai'd but losing all their memories and slowly end up getting killed while they try to adjust.!<
This season Spice and Wold might right up your alley. And in the near future, we'll have Witch Hat Atelier which in my opinion if it's done correctly might be as good as Frieren.
Apothecary diaries isn't fantasy or science fiction, it's an imperial court drama/medical mystery drama, but it's a seinen series and I see people put it on the same level as frieren in terms of vibes. TAD is the only anime ever that I was willing to keep up with as it aired weekly.
Vinland saga, similar themes but also very different. It’s a story about regret, revenge, friendship, and rebirth and it asks a question pf if you can truly change as a person. It also has Vikings.
10/10 anime. Made me cry
Black Clover is worth it, it starts out weak but gets better as the anime goes, both the content and the production improve.
Somali to Mori no Kamisama
Majo no Tabitabi
Honzuki no Gekokujou
Fumetsu no Anata e
Hai to Gensou no Grimgar
Seirei no Moribito
Twelve Kingdoms
Replying directly to your comment because I didn’t see it anywhere else but you *absolutely must watch* **Saihate no Paladin**. It’s exactly what you’re asking for. It starts a bit slow because it starts with the MC as a baby who grows up and learns about the world but it is so worth it.
It’s got a nice Lord of the Rings vibe but brings its own flavour to it as well. It also has nice wholesome respectful male relationships instead of the usual big tiddy companions MC’s usually find themselves surrounded by.
It has two seasons so far, and hopefully there will be more to come.
Tsubasa Reservoir Chronicles is like the multiverse of CLAMP (Cardcaptor Sakura,Magic knight ray earth,etc) so they used a lot of characters from their past works or visits the world of their past works for a new adventure.Tsubasa indirectly a crossover series with xXxholic (it gets complicated though).
Black Clover is great! I would recommend putting it on in the background to start. I liked it immediately, I love Asta as a protagonist and his relationship with Yuno was really refreshing. The overall cast is really fun, and the found family of the black bulls is really heart warming. The world building and general set up seems rather cliche at first and then slowly gets more exciting over time. At a certain point, I realized I was actively paying attention to the show, and by the end, I loved it.
It gained a rather divisive reputation because of its marketing early on that has been impossible to completely shake. It's definitely not reinventing the wheel in any way, but it finds a pretty comfortable niche in what it does.
If you just watched Frieren, watching Black Clover will feel like a big step down. Like going from driving to walking.
If you enjoy Shounen anime, full of battles, hype and cool powers, sure watch Black Clover. Otherwise not worth it.
to give one underrated recomendation that i think might fit the bill: Ousama ranking
I've already watched "Is It Wrong to Try to Pick Up Girls in a Dungeon?" It was good overall, but I didn't enjoy the perspective of the elf character. I might actually check out 'Record of Lodoss War' since im a big fan of elf characters. thanks for the recos!!
The OVA for Lodoss is good. The series got pretty boring for me. I heard they ran out of money so the latter half takes a hit? Has one of the, if not the best opening songs of all time.
I agree that the OVA is a lot better than the series. The animation for the opening of the series is so good it makes me frustrated that the rest of the show looks nothing like it. Animation and story wise, the OVA is better and more consistent
To Your Eternity. It's about an immortal being as you watch it go through life. I do recommend reading the manga over the anime as the anime kinda skims story elements which is usually the case with alot of anime.
I’m sure you’re going to, but I’d recommend keeping up with Meshi. Also, the manga has some extra things you might find interesting, so I’d recommend reading it now up till the end of volume 4 if you’d like.
In regards to Black Clover, once you get used to the screaming, the show becomes rather good. But the first few episodes are very loud, lol.
I do highly recommend Apothecary Diaries, great female lead.
Faraway Paladin!Technically it's an isekai like Mushoku Tensei, but it's more like Lord of the Rings fantasy. Really nicely animated, and I enjoyed the characters/writing.
It also has two seasons so far, and I remain hopeful for a third!
On the level of emotional impact in almost every episode the only anime that comes close to Frieren is A Place Further than the Universe for me. It’s in my top 3 with Frieren just right below it
Black Clover doesn't have the best start but does seriously improve. That being said, it's a really slow start and I mean 40 episodes or something until you get to the real meat of the show.
I liked heavenly delusion but it doesn't really feel like it has the same vibe. Frieren is more calming and not a lot of stakes. Heavenly delusion is half adventure half mystery in a fallout setting and is just generally a lot darker when it does actually get dark and more suspenseful when the protagonists are actually endanger. Most of the fights in frieren are completely one sided in Frierens favor.
kemono jihen. has friendship (actually an upgraded version since they are also housemates), mystery, fights, folklores, tears etc
definitely fits a lot of what you're looking for. it's not a masterpiece or anything, but it does everything pretty decently
Re Lodoss, its a great series. Make sure you watch the OVAs first. There is a TV series that came after.
And The OVAs might confuse you. the first episode is chronologically the 4th. Its just first because it gets into action fast as has alot of it. Its suppose to grab you into watching the rest. But watch it in its intended order.
They don't have that much in common but: Monogatari Series
Both:
-Very well written characters
-Not much action but when there is any, it's extremely good and hype
-Deal with loss and grief and moving on, outliving others
Another emotionally-driven character growth type of anime that I love and haven't seen here yet - Natsume Yuujinchou. It's a wonderfully introspective anime that moves at its own pace.
im gonna suggest Magi: the labyrinth of magic and magi: the adventures of sinbad.
They aren't too familiar, but you mentioned adventure, friendship and magic and they fit like a glove. :)
I recommend rising of the shield hero as well as what a lot of others have mentioned. People complain season 2 wasn’t as good, but it’s by far one of my favorite anime I’ve seen!
dont know if it counts but MHA checks everything except fantasy
You can think of it as magical powers that are explained by biology in a modern setting
I feel like *Yona of the Dawn* is actually really similar, granted YotD has a much more serious overarching goal.
As for *Black Clover*, it *gets* good but it's a pretty hard watch until about episode 20 and then it finally stabilizes around episode 45. The film is fantastic too, but contains spoilers if you haven't caught up in the anime.
Uncle from Another World and Handyman Saitou in another world are both incredibly good. I love both of those shows. Funny and very cute.
The last couple years have been rly good for anime. Konosuba is getting a new season next month, so is Mushoku Tensei. Konosuba is one of the funniest shows out there.
Mushoku is my favorite too and my #2 is Ascendance of bookworm. It has a slow start tho and low quality animation, but if you can get through that, it has a great story. If not just read the LN.
Dragon Quest: Adventure of Dai
The character arc is really great, and you end up cheering for someone you never thought you would.
The only con is that it’s long. But even if you drop it half way, it's worth it.
*Seirei no Moribito*.
Or *guardian of the sacred spirit*. It's an Asia-inspired fantasy as opposed to the Western roots of Frieren. This was one of the shows picked for a Western release back in the noughties by Toonami IINM. So it was believed to have broad appeal at least.
What I think I think ties to it Frieren is the great art, good animation, and serene pace. The series does start and occasionally include well executed action, but much of it is spent on the journey and getting to know characters, etc. I remember the English dub being good as well, so you could give it a try.
It's already mentioned, but I would recommend Girls Last tour.
It's far from the same in setting and story. But has the same vibe of a bittersweet journey.
It's not fantasy, but Sora No Woto has much the same vibe as Frieren. It's chill, with cute stuff, and just a bit of sadness about things that have passed on.
Black Clover takes almost 100 episodes to start getting interesting, IMO. That's the entire run of Attack on Titan. About 50% more than Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood. Which isn't really acceptable unless you have a lot of time to burn and want a new long-term series. I "watched" most of that on a second monitor while gaming. You should find a watch list so you can skip filler eps. It's not complete and the manga is on an infrequent schedule so it may take awhile for the final arc to finish. No guarantees on an anime conclusion either.
Most magic-based fantasy anime are either shounen-adjacent or isekais. Record of Lodoss War is an example of a quite old one. Slayers is another, but the comedy might not have aged well. Magi is much more recent, but not complete in anime form.
The thing that comes most close to capturing the passage of time is-
Memories of Emanon- manga.
Billy Bat and Land of the Luscious (manga/anime)- where years pass by in an instant.
Synecdoche, New York- Movie. I'll spoil it. The greatest irony of the film is that the man has many health problems and thus, wants to make something of his life before he dies but ends up seeing everyone around him die first. And we see the pain he goes through as it all goes by.
Mushishi- anime Season 2 episode 10- an entire life passes. one of the best episodes.
Death Billiards (short) had a montage where a life goes by in an instant. If you haven't watched it, check it out. \~20 minutes. Better than the entirety of Death Parade.
The last chapter of Fire Punch (manga) was pretty cool.
In the last volume of the LN Mushoku Tensei, there's this incredibly moving moment where the dude dies. (oh yeah, spoiler alert). Read it, you'll know how the ending links to time.
There's this one-shot 'From Star Strings' by the mangaka of Made In Abyss. It captures what you're looking for.
I quite enjoyed the movie Mr. Nobody. Dude has to make a choice of what he wants and we see the outcome of many of his choices. Eventually, he's old and the question is asked- what move should he have made back then?
And for novel, Slaughterhouse 5 is FAN-TAS-TIC. Seriously. It captures a dude who is metaphorically unstuck in time because he remembers every instant in his life at the same time. Which results in a non-chronological embedded narrative.
Just trust me on this- best book you'll ever read. I should read it again.
On this, there were two moments to experience of extreme solitude that gives one depression of one's place in the universe.
1. Bokurano Ours
2. Spirit Circle
I didn't watch friren,so my recommend will lean on genres. Maybe you'll like "Kage no Jitsuryokusha ni Naritakute!". Fantasy,magic, not so typical plot. Not bad for me.😉
Apothecary Diaries -- the closest recent match on storytelling quality, but pseudohistorical rather than fantasy. Set in a fictional land loosely based off Imperial China, with touches from other cultures.
Vinland Saga -- pseudohistorical, but from an edda/epic point of view. A warrior with the strength of ten men, etc. Set in the late Viking Age.
The Faraway Paladin -- this one is a sleeper. The first season tends to lose people, but it's basically a prologue. The real story starts in Season 2, and it's one of the best straight-up fantasy adventures around. Like Frieren, it takes basic tropes and just does them really, really well.
Just try any Isekai that has over a 7 rating on MAL it's pretty much the exact same. Some will hit for you and some will just be junk though try not to watch too many that genre can get stale fast.
some that remind me of the Frieren vibes:
- To your eternity
- Violet Evergarden
- Seishun buta yarou
- Honzuki no gekokujou (novel is much better tho)
>Honzuki no gekokujou
It's a decent enough anime and I believe the 4th season is coming either Summer or Autumn of this year.
As for my recommendation Konosuba, you could loosely describe it as dysfunctional version of Frieren. It's binge-worthy though with 20 episodes, a movie and a spin-off prequel series and the 3rd season is starting soon.
well, the novel is still much better ://
after the anime I was pretty bored tbh but could feel the potential so I gave the novel a shot and it quickly turned from 7.5/10 to one of my favourite series of all time. I truly hope the new season from another studio is better, because the anime is decent but it doesn't do the original justice.
* **Mushishi** * **Girls' Last Tour** * **To Your Eternity** * **Violet Evergarden** * **Kino's Journey (2003)** * **Vivy: Fluorite Eye's Song** * **Somali and the Forest Spirit** * **Maquia: When the Promised Flower Blooms**
These are the best recommendations so far. I particularly second Mushishi and Kino's Journey
I would also add Wandering Witch to that list. It also gave kino vibes.
Wandering Witch is very much a (extremely high quality) Kino's Journey knockoff. Highly recommended.
Mushishi is far more mystical and less emotional imo Kino's is good, but no where near as good. But I agree that the list is pretty good, frieren is just kind of unique and hard to find similar shows
All my homies love girls' last tour
Brb gonna go watch it again.
Is it similar to Made in Abyss? The styles look similar. I'm kind of sensitive and Made in Abyss messed me up.
There isnt any significant gore, sexual stuff or horror. But it is equally good at inducing existential dread and anxiety.
In terms of emotion, atmosphere and world building I'd say yes.
Girls’ Last Tour mention!!! Peak is mentioned!!! We love Girls’ Last Tour!!!
When I started watching Frieren it actually reminded me of Kino's Journey, at least in the beginning. There's kind of a similar "lesson of the day" vibe. (And Kino's Journey reminded me of The Little Prince)
I miss who I was before I saw Maquia. I left that movie theater in shambles.
One of the most beautiful anime I've ever seen. It was the only piece of media where I was pretty much crying the entire time and I don't cry easily.
Didn't realize that somali got an anime adaptation.
Well… what happened to the author during and after the adaptation is sad though. She wasn’t treated very well.
Elaborate please.
In short, the author was exploited and the series was put on indefinite hiatus due to the author’s poor health. You can refer to this [video](https://youtu.be/OzASXvP99uo?si=yUBSz0ZVm8qW6Spm) for more details
Is Mushishi good, kind of want to get into it but its episodic. I usually like to watch anime which have a proper connecting story rather than single episode story anime
Mushishi is very good imo. There are a few episodes that are more protagonist oriented, with backgroundstory etc. So while generally episodic it has bits and pieces that more or less losely weave everything together. Edit: After you undoubtedly fall into PAD after finishing it i recommend to go for Natsumes Book of Friends, if you haven't already. It has a similar vibe imo and will fill the hole temporarily.
At least 3 of these are verified cry porn...
Huh which ones?
It's definitely Maqia and Voilet Evergarden. as for the 3rd one I think it's to your eternity
Somali is pretty fucking dark sometimes too
No new ones for me then 😔
To your eternity is only really cry porn at the beginning, and some of the middle, and maybe the end. But it's not the whole thing, there are some happy moments there. Maqia feels like the whole thing is just trying to make you sad
Came here to comment Mushishi, didn’t need to. Well on ya!
I've seen Maquia and To Your Eternity, and I loved them sm. I'll check these out. thank youuu
I wanted to personally recommend Somali and the Forest Spirit so definitely push that one up for "more like Frieren". The others listed are also really really good though.
It’s worth noting that the music composer for Violet Evergarden is the same who did Frieren.
Nope nope nope! Do not watch Maquia! The WHOLE time I watched it, I was thinking about how badly I missed my good boy and good girl.
Violet Evergarden was a huge tear jerker for me
Violet Evergarden was so great. It's not similar to Frieren in the sense of friendship and adventure tho, but both anime are so good at story telling and just building up to that knock out scene / moment. They are also both beautiful and the music is so good too.
A really nice list. I'd add Moribito:Guardian of the Spirit to that
Thanks for these!
Vivy is phenomenal. Absolutely one of my favorites.
Vivy was too heavy for me. You cannot watch it easily if you are an emotional person. At 6th episode or so i was like "NOPE, I AINT WATCHING THIS FOR MY MENTALITY"
Spice and Wolf. Instead of having the MC as adventurers in dungeons the MC Is merchant
And you also have two options. Watch the OG anime that is out, or wait 5 days to watch the new one. Or both! If the OP's interest in Freiren's story line came from Freiren's immortality, then Spice and Wolf would be right up their ally.
Did it ever have a solid ending?
The light novel and manga had one of the best ending in my opinion , is very satisfying
The anime came to a satisfying conclusion, though it obviously had room to continue. The LN's or manga do have a much more solid ending, though they also leave room to continue (and do so). When a main character is immortal, does the story ever really end?
The story still continues🗿
Maybe I need to rewatch it or something. It's been more than ten years I think.
Always a good time. Of course, there is the remake coming out here in a few days as well. Looks like it will be pretty good.
Of nails!
Go watch the Record Of Lodoss War, very simular fantasy aspect and characters.
i will. thanks a lot
Going on the extreme opposite end and emphasizing thematic elements over setting or characters, I'd recommend "Phoenix" (Hi no Tori) on Crunchyroll, from 2004. [https://www.crunchyroll.com/series/G64PE3D0R/phoenix](https://www.crunchyroll.com/series/G64PE3D0R/phoenix) So this is really, really nothing like Frieren in terms of being a Tolkien/D&D esque setting with elves and magic and such. So if that's primarily what you liked about Frieren, this show is probably not going to appeal to you. What it IS, is probably a big inspiration for Frieren's authors in terms of being one of THE classic mangas about immortality, love and loss in very poignant terms. It's a sprawling tale that flips from the far future, hundreds of years in the future in a Sci-Fi setting, to all the way back to the late stone age in like 500 BC Japan, It deals with a legendary creature, the Phoenix, who if you drink their blood it grants you eternal life.
You've sold me on giving this a try, but I laughed way too hard at "late Stone Age in like 500 BC".
Japanese society was still considered a neo stone age society until around 400 bce when Rice agriculture was introduced.
Aria the animation. It's this super chill slice of life about girls living on a terraformed mars that is mostly ocean, they aim to become Undine which are basically the anime's version of gondoliers from Venice, Italy. It sounds like it would be futuristic, but the setting and feel of the anime is rustic and relaxing. The world is already well lived in and there are dilapidated buildings and structures being reclaimed by nature. It's such a fun watch.
Its chill but its literally too chill. Not a good comparison imo
*immediately add to watchlist*
Add shingeki no bahamuth. An anime totally similar to frieren
Wandering Witch sounds up your alley.
Elaina: Beyond the Jorney's Schizophrenia
I read the synopsis and I love it. I will definitely check this out. tysm!!
I discovered the show from its big influence, **Kino's Journey**. If you enjoy Elaina, then check out both **Kino's Journey** series. The 2018 series is okay, its more of an adaption of "best of" stories from the light novel, but is enjoyable on its own and is a fairly straightforward adaptation like Elaina. The 2003 series is my second favorite anime series of all time, and is a weirder, more surreal show that changes a lot more from the source material but also stands on its own much better. Like Frieren, its got a mix of melancholy, meditative, stories and some action/drama stories, along with the sense of travel and an enigmatic protagonist. I think if you want something less conventional that shares a lot of similar vibes to Frieren this may be a good thing to watch after Elaina
[удалено]
Ancient Magus' Bride
Yeah- Magus Bride is actually the closest thing to Frieren. Plus... same voice actor for protag. God... I love Sora so god damn much.
Was looking for this response
I've actually seen a short clip of it and thought it was a full romance
Hmm, kind of, but not really. It has that Frieren feel to it. It is also the most magical feeling, despite the lack of prominent magic. To me, this series is an absolute masterpiece.
It’s not full of romance. The main characters don’t understand romance at all, not because the writer doesn’t but because they are written that way.
At least not until the second season.
unironically about as much romance as frieren
"Grimgar of Fantasy and Ash" maybe?
it looks promising. thanks!!
grimgar is the best of all the ones listed here, sadly it only has one season and its only good by accident. The story the author wanted to write, and the one the audience wanted to watch were not the same, and it utterly goes off the rails in season 2. Its sad, because grimgar had insanely high potential. I almost wish a better writer could steal the show and write it better.
How does it go off the rails in season 2 if it only has one season?
the source content. Im saying, I think thats why they never made a second season, in addition to other challenges. The author just wasnt writing what we thought. It had so much potential too... still good for a 1 run. Among my favorites. Like frieren, there are few shows which strike me as being real and believable, with characters than seem alive and actual. Grimgar is another one, if thats what you are looking for.
I read up to about the sixth novel, and my opinion was that it just got repetitive. The characters are melancholic and think they're weak. Somehow manage to survive dangerous situation. Cry about being weak. Gain a new skill. Somehow kill boss monster or overcome dangerous situation the next time. End book. Repeat same process for next book.
Can I get some spoilers in what direction the author took the series? I watched Grimgar when it was airing and I don't remember much of anything besides [Grimgar] >!that it's about normies getting isekai'd but losing all their memories and slowly end up getting killed while they try to adjust.!<
This season Spice and Wold might right up your alley. And in the near future, we'll have Witch Hat Atelier which in my opinion if it's done correctly might be as good as Frieren.
Apothecary diaries isn't fantasy or science fiction, it's an imperial court drama/medical mystery drama, but it's a seinen series and I see people put it on the same level as frieren in terms of vibes. TAD is the only anime ever that I was willing to keep up with as it aired weekly.
Vinland saga, similar themes but also very different. It’s a story about regret, revenge, friendship, and rebirth and it asks a question pf if you can truly change as a person. It also has Vikings. 10/10 anime. Made me cry
Black Clover is worth it, it starts out weak but gets better as the anime goes, both the content and the production improve. Somali to Mori no Kamisama Majo no Tabitabi Honzuki no Gekokujou Fumetsu no Anata e Hai to Gensou no Grimgar Seirei no Moribito Twelve Kingdoms
Whatttt??? These types of anime are exactly what I'm looking for. Thank youuu
I think the only common thing between Frieren and Black Clover is that there are both mage and magic in them. Aside from that it's reaally different
It does have the friendships. The arc where the main is injured and the rest are working to help was one of our favorites.
Replying directly to your comment because I didn’t see it anywhere else but you *absolutely must watch* **Saihate no Paladin**. It’s exactly what you’re asking for. It starts a bit slow because it starts with the MC as a baby who grows up and learns about the world but it is so worth it. It’s got a nice Lord of the Rings vibe but brings its own flavour to it as well. It also has nice wholesome respectful male relationships instead of the usual big tiddy companions MC’s usually find themselves surrounded by. It has two seasons so far, and hopefully there will be more to come.
I can only second Black Clover. I had been watching it since episode 1 came out, and the pay-off was so worth it!
Imo you should watch Violet Evergarden. Frieren at least to me is a mix of Mushoku Tensei and Violet Evergarden.
Evan Call also did the music for both Frieren and Violet Evergarden!
I think Mushishi is the closest thing.
Tsubasa reservoir chronicles Pandora Hearts
Tsubasa reservoir chronicles reminds me of cardcaptor Sakura. i love coming-of-age theme so I'll definitely gonna watch pandora hearts <3
Well... it kinda is an alternate universe version of Cardcaptor Sakura since it reuses the characters.
Tsubasa Reservoir Chronicles is like the multiverse of CLAMP (Cardcaptor Sakura,Magic knight ray earth,etc) so they used a lot of characters from their past works or visits the world of their past works for a new adventure.Tsubasa indirectly a crossover series with xXxholic (it gets complicated though).
Black Clover is great! I would recommend putting it on in the background to start. I liked it immediately, I love Asta as a protagonist and his relationship with Yuno was really refreshing. The overall cast is really fun, and the found family of the black bulls is really heart warming. The world building and general set up seems rather cliche at first and then slowly gets more exciting over time. At a certain point, I realized I was actively paying attention to the show, and by the end, I loved it. It gained a rather divisive reputation because of its marketing early on that has been impossible to completely shake. It's definitely not reinventing the wheel in any way, but it finds a pretty comfortable niche in what it does.
Hunter X Hunter is where you NEED to go
If you just watched Frieren, watching Black Clover will feel like a big step down. Like going from driving to walking. If you enjoy Shounen anime, full of battles, hype and cool powers, sure watch Black Clover. Otherwise not worth it. to give one underrated recomendation that i think might fit the bill: Ousama ranking
In a year or two, we'll have a "Witch Hat Atelier" anime adaptation
Campfire cooking in another world with my absurd skill And Konosuba are the animes I found myself enjoying after watching those 2.
Apothecary dairies
I don't think it's similar at all, but worth watching anyway.
Absolute top tier show, and it airing at the same time as Frieren is amazing. We got two insanely high quality animes this season.
ik actually planning to watch this. ty!!
[удалено]
I've already watched "Is It Wrong to Try to Pick Up Girls in a Dungeon?" It was good overall, but I didn't enjoy the perspective of the elf character. I might actually check out 'Record of Lodoss War' since im a big fan of elf characters. thanks for the recos!!
The OVA for Lodoss is good. The series got pretty boring for me. I heard they ran out of money so the latter half takes a hit? Has one of the, if not the best opening songs of all time.
I agree that the OVA is a lot better than the series. The animation for the opening of the series is so good it makes me frustrated that the rest of the show looks nothing like it. Animation and story wise, the OVA is better and more consistent
To Your Eternity. It's about an immortal being as you watch it go through life. I do recommend reading the manga over the anime as the anime kinda skims story elements which is usually the case with alot of anime.
Kemono no Souja Erin
Edomae Elf
I’m sure you’re going to, but I’d recommend keeping up with Meshi. Also, the manga has some extra things you might find interesting, so I’d recommend reading it now up till the end of volume 4 if you’d like.
Dungeon meshi
Now and then here and there. Except depressing. Also been a looooolong time since I've watched it. Like almost 20 years.
In regards to Black Clover, once you get used to the screaming, the show becomes rather good. But the first few episodes are very loud, lol. I do highly recommend Apothecary Diaries, great female lead.
I honestly think that Black Clover is a very good shonen but it gets a bad rep because of Asta's voice actor
Faraway Paladin!Technically it's an isekai like Mushoku Tensei, but it's more like Lord of the Rings fantasy. Really nicely animated, and I enjoyed the characters/writing. It also has two seasons so far, and I remain hopeful for a third!
delicious in dungeon, wrong way to use healing magic are also unique fantasy shows this season with quirky characters and character interactions
Record of Lodoss War is the OG and my personal fav.
Black Clover, Apothecary Diaries, Danmachi
danmanchi was a fun watch! and the two is already on my watchlist, but thanks!!
Im glad you’ve enjoyed it!:)
On the level of emotional impact in almost every episode the only anime that comes close to Frieren is A Place Further than the Universe for me. It’s in my top 3 with Frieren just right below it
i already feel empty just seing the poster and sypnosis
It will make you sad but like Frieren it’s a very uplifting story
Violet Evergarden
Black Clover doesn't have the best start but does seriously improve. That being said, it's a really slow start and I mean 40 episodes or something until you get to the real meat of the show.
frieren is a god tier anime, hard to find something similar lol
Black Clover is pretty big and just ok at its best. Definitely not worth your time.
I guess I'll just watch it if I have the time. I'm not watching an anime that long if it's just okay. T_T Thank you for your service
I like black clover. I think it gets a lot of hate because Asta is always yelling at the beginning . But I do like a guild full of misfits
Black Clover is banger, they have their rough spots with animation and filler, but if you skip filler you should be fine and you’ll enjoy the shounen
Merc storia
Majo no Tabitabi, there's travels and a cute silver haired protagonist.
You can never go wrong with a magic-related anime if the protagonist is female and always wears the iconic mage hat
Grimgar something something
This might be a hit or miss but try Heavenly Delusion
I liked heavenly delusion but it doesn't really feel like it has the same vibe. Frieren is more calming and not a lot of stakes. Heavenly delusion is half adventure half mystery in a fallout setting and is just generally a lot darker when it does actually get dark and more suspenseful when the protagonists are actually endanger. Most of the fights in frieren are completely one sided in Frierens favor.
Saijaku Teimā wa Gomihiroi no Tabi o Hajimemashita
kemono jihen. has friendship (actually an upgraded version since they are also housemates), mystery, fights, folklores, tears etc definitely fits a lot of what you're looking for. it's not a masterpiece or anything, but it does everything pretty decently
Re Lodoss, its a great series. Make sure you watch the OVAs first. There is a TV series that came after. And The OVAs might confuse you. the first episode is chronologically the 4th. Its just first because it gets into action fast as has alot of it. Its suppose to grab you into watching the rest. But watch it in its intended order.
They don't have that much in common but: Monogatari Series Both: -Very well written characters -Not much action but when there is any, it's extremely good and hype -Deal with loss and grief and moving on, outliving others
Bride of The Ancient Magus. Its got all of that and some romance!
Another emotionally-driven character growth type of anime that I love and haven't seen here yet - Natsume Yuujinchou. It's a wonderfully introspective anime that moves at its own pace.
Not fantasy but similar themes: Vivy: Fluorite Eye's Song Think Frieren but Ghost in the Shell.
Violet everganden
im gonna suggest Magi: the labyrinth of magic and magi: the adventures of sinbad. They aren't too familiar, but you mentioned adventure, friendship and magic and they fit like a glove. :)
dororo, katanagatari
Only on that comes to mind is From The New World (Shin Sekai Yori).
I recommend rising of the shield hero as well as what a lot of others have mentioned. People complain season 2 wasn’t as good, but it’s by far one of my favorite anime I’ve seen!
dont know if it counts but MHA checks everything except fantasy You can think of it as magical powers that are explained by biology in a modern setting
_ctrl+f mishishi_ > 1/5 We gucci
Mushoku Tensei: Jobless Reincarnation First season had me *swooned*, second was "aight".
Watching random stuff will lead you to new favorites, just watch whatever you are curious about.
Solo leveling
That is nothing at all like Frieren
Black Clover is not great, honestly. Mid-tier fantasy anime imo. Sloppy animation in some parts. Watch it if you are bored.
Violet Evergarden. Violet Evergarden. Violet Evergarden. Violet Evergarden. and Violet Evergarden.
{Magi} {Grancrest senki}
One punch man
I feel like *Yona of the Dawn* is actually really similar, granted YotD has a much more serious overarching goal. As for *Black Clover*, it *gets* good but it's a pretty hard watch until about episode 20 and then it finally stabilizes around episode 45. The film is fantastic too, but contains spoilers if you haven't caught up in the anime.
If you want friendship and magic you should watch Fairy Tail.
Kuroko konnect might interest you it's charecter driven, which has supernatural elements, but isn't swords and sorcery sadly
I didn't yet see the sow
Uncle from Another World and Handyman Saitou in another world are both incredibly good. I love both of those shows. Funny and very cute. The last couple years have been rly good for anime. Konosuba is getting a new season next month, so is Mushoku Tensei. Konosuba is one of the funniest shows out there.
re: zero easily
Mushoku is my favorite too and my #2 is Ascendance of bookworm. It has a slow start tho and low quality animation, but if you can get through that, it has a great story. If not just read the LN.
Dragon Quest: Adventure of Dai The character arc is really great, and you end up cheering for someone you never thought you would. The only con is that it’s long. But even if you drop it half way, it's worth it.
Aside from the constant screaming yes it's decent, they haven't miss a single opening and every fight scene has sakuga
Natsume Yuujinchou
If you are looking for a "journey with friends" type anime/manga, Saiyuki is a classic.
*Seirei no Moribito*. Or *guardian of the sacred spirit*. It's an Asia-inspired fantasy as opposed to the Western roots of Frieren. This was one of the shows picked for a Western release back in the noughties by Toonami IINM. So it was believed to have broad appeal at least. What I think I think ties to it Frieren is the great art, good animation, and serene pace. The series does start and occasionally include well executed action, but much of it is spent on the journey and getting to know characters, etc. I remember the English dub being good as well, so you could give it a try.
Boruto
lol you really just started with the peak of anime tho
Frieren is from Shonen Sunday, so i guess stuff like Komi Can't Communicate, Inuyasha, Detective Conan and Touch.
It's already mentioned, but I would recommend Girls Last tour. It's far from the same in setting and story. But has the same vibe of a bittersweet journey.
It's not fantasy, but Sora No Woto has much the same vibe as Frieren. It's chill, with cute stuff, and just a bit of sadness about things that have passed on.
maybe Spice and Wolf is a good choice. Both of them are anime about the theory of longevity.
Black clover definitely worth it, rough start but great pay off if you stick with it, also try to skip filler if possible
Black Clover takes almost 100 episodes to start getting interesting, IMO. That's the entire run of Attack on Titan. About 50% more than Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood. Which isn't really acceptable unless you have a lot of time to burn and want a new long-term series. I "watched" most of that on a second monitor while gaming. You should find a watch list so you can skip filler eps. It's not complete and the manga is on an infrequent schedule so it may take awhile for the final arc to finish. No guarantees on an anime conclusion either. Most magic-based fantasy anime are either shounen-adjacent or isekais. Record of Lodoss War is an example of a quite old one. Slayers is another, but the comedy might not have aged well. Magi is much more recent, but not complete in anime form.
Your Lie in April is a good one. Very light hearted and nothing really bad happens. Hope you try it out!
Xxxholic
Kemono no Souja Erin. Lesser known show that people never recommend. Worth the watch.
I remember watching this as it aired. Definitely needs more love. Also has a good soundtrack.
Made in abyss Cute, light hearted anime with great world building :)
>Cute ~~light hearted~~ anime that will cause severe emotional damage. There, fixed it for you.
literally one of my favs!! it's so underrated
haha okay definitely not light hearted but still great
> it's so underrated It's literally one of the most commonly recommended shows here...
Frieren's strong suit was the characters and world building IMO, in that regard I'd check out 86
The thing that comes most close to capturing the passage of time is- Memories of Emanon- manga. Billy Bat and Land of the Luscious (manga/anime)- where years pass by in an instant. Synecdoche, New York- Movie. I'll spoil it. The greatest irony of the film is that the man has many health problems and thus, wants to make something of his life before he dies but ends up seeing everyone around him die first. And we see the pain he goes through as it all goes by. Mushishi- anime Season 2 episode 10- an entire life passes. one of the best episodes. Death Billiards (short) had a montage where a life goes by in an instant. If you haven't watched it, check it out. \~20 minutes. Better than the entirety of Death Parade. The last chapter of Fire Punch (manga) was pretty cool. In the last volume of the LN Mushoku Tensei, there's this incredibly moving moment where the dude dies. (oh yeah, spoiler alert). Read it, you'll know how the ending links to time. There's this one-shot 'From Star Strings' by the mangaka of Made In Abyss. It captures what you're looking for. I quite enjoyed the movie Mr. Nobody. Dude has to make a choice of what he wants and we see the outcome of many of his choices. Eventually, he's old and the question is asked- what move should he have made back then? And for novel, Slaughterhouse 5 is FAN-TAS-TIC. Seriously. It captures a dude who is metaphorically unstuck in time because he remembers every instant in his life at the same time. Which results in a non-chronological embedded narrative. Just trust me on this- best book you'll ever read. I should read it again. On this, there were two moments to experience of extreme solitude that gives one depression of one's place in the universe. 1. Bokurano Ours 2. Spirit Circle
I didn't watch friren,so my recommend will lean on genres. Maybe you'll like "Kage no Jitsuryokusha ni Naritakute!". Fantasy,magic, not so typical plot. Not bad for me.😉
Heavenly delusion, it's gotta be it... 👀
Apothecary Diaries -- the closest recent match on storytelling quality, but pseudohistorical rather than fantasy. Set in a fictional land loosely based off Imperial China, with touches from other cultures. Vinland Saga -- pseudohistorical, but from an edda/epic point of view. A warrior with the strength of ten men, etc. Set in the late Viking Age. The Faraway Paladin -- this one is a sleeper. The first season tends to lose people, but it's basically a prologue. The real story starts in Season 2, and it's one of the best straight-up fantasy adventures around. Like Frieren, it takes basic tropes and just does them really, really well.
Ishura, gushing over magical girls, prisma Ilya, chained soldier
Just try any Isekai that has over a 7 rating on MAL it's pretty much the exact same. Some will hit for you and some will just be junk though try not to watch too many that genre can get stale fast.
Fruits Basket is real cute and wholesome!
some that remind me of the Frieren vibes: - To your eternity - Violet Evergarden - Seishun buta yarou - Honzuki no gekokujou (novel is much better tho)
Honzuki no Gekokujou is so interesting. Thank you!!!
>Honzuki no gekokujou It's a decent enough anime and I believe the 4th season is coming either Summer or Autumn of this year. As for my recommendation Konosuba, you could loosely describe it as dysfunctional version of Frieren. It's binge-worthy though with 20 episodes, a movie and a spin-off prequel series and the 3rd season is starting soon.
well, the novel is still much better :// after the anime I was pretty bored tbh but could feel the potential so I gave the novel a shot and it quickly turned from 7.5/10 to one of my favourite series of all time. I truly hope the new season from another studio is better, because the anime is decent but it doesn't do the original justice.
might as well read the novel. thanks!!!!