Anime has exploded in popularity in recent years, with many newcomers discovering a variety of stories, worlds, and characters that prove what storytelling can achieve in animated media. Among new titles, Solo Leveling stands out due to its staggeringly rapid rise to international popularity. The show is best known for its stellar animation, intense battles, and seemingly unbeatable protagonist.
Solo Leveling has many strengths; however, there are other anime with storylines that deserve equal attention. Fans who discovered anime through Solo Leveling might believe that no other series compares, but in reality, there are many series that capture audiences with narrative depth, complex characters, and richly detailed worlds that anime fans shouldn't miss.
Cowboy Bebop
Cowboy Bebop takes place in a futuristic world, following a ragtag crew of bounty hunters aboard the spaceship Bebop. The series follows the episodic adventures of Spike Spiegel, Jet Black, Faye Valentine, and Edward, along with a genetically modified corgi named Ein. Each character has their own complicated past and a reason for joining the Bebop as a bounty hunter.
The series explores overarching themes of existentialism, loneliness, and the search for meaning in a universe that is both and often seems uncaring. As one of the highest-rated anime, paired with an unforgettable soundtrack and striking animation, Cowboy Bebop is an anime that new fans to the genre can’t afford to miss.
Fate/Zero
Fate/Zero takes viewers into a dark, high-stakes battle royale known as the Holy Grail War, where seven mages summon heroic spirits to compete for the Holy Grail, which can grant any wish. Fate/Zero is a prequel to Fate/Stay Night and takes place during the Fourth Holy Grail War. However, it can be watched as a standalone series.
Fate/Zero follows Kiritsugu Emiya, also known as the "Mage Killer." He is hired by the Einzbern family, one of the founding families of the war, to win after the family experienced three consecutive losses. With epic battles, animation, and psychological depth, the series explores heavy themes of morality, idealism, and the true meaning of heroism.
The series is best known for its complexity, cinematic style, and emotional intensity. Filled with complex characters with conflicting motivations, the story grips viewers from beginning to end. With its intense plot and thought-provoking themes, Fate/Zero stands as one of the best anime that both new and long-time fans should experience.
Attack on Titan
Attack on Titan takes place in a world on the brink of extinction, where humanity’s survival depends on staying safe behind massive walls that protect them from man-eating Titans. The story follows Eren Yeager and his friends, Mikasa and Armin, as they live safely behind one of the outermost walls until the wall is destroyed, leading to chaos and destruction.
After the destruction of his home and the loss of his mother, Eren, Mikasa, and Armin join the Survey Corps to fight against the Titans and see the outside world. However, the series quickly escalates, with the stakes growing higher with every twist and revelation, leaving viewers questioning every scene and each character’s motivations.
The series skillfully blends political intrigue with intense and adrenaline-packed action, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats. The anime questions the costs of war, morality, and freedom in a way that makes audiences question their own beliefs. With its complex characters and storyline, Attack on Titan is undeniably a must-watch anime.
Naruto
Naruto follows the titular character, Naruto Uzumaki, a young, spirited ninja who has been ostracized by his village because he is the host of the powerful Nine-Tails fox sealed within him. Despite how the village treats him, Naruto is determined to earn respect and become the next leader of the village, the Hokage.
He trains relentlessly while forming new bonds with those around him as they face increasingly dangerous enemies. With a mix of humor, heart, and action, Naruto is one of the most popular anime ever made, and for good reason. The story’s exploration of friendship, loyalty, and perseverance in the face of adversity makes it thrilling and inspiring.
Demon Slayer
Demon Slayer centers on Tanjiro Kamado, a kind-hearted boy whose family is tragically killed by demons, leaving his sister Nezuko as the sole survivor and transformed into a demon herself. Driven by love and vengeance, he joins the Demon Slayer Corps to find a cure for his sister, avenge his family, and protect anyone else from befalling the same fate.
After learning to wield Water Breathing techniques and completing the Final Selection, Tanjiro becomes a full-fledged Demon Slayer ready to face the demonic threats led by Muzan Kibutsuji. Along with new allies like Zenitsu and Inosuke, he confronts increasingly dangerous enemies, each with their own tragic past and destructive powers.
The series is renowned for its stunning animation and fluid fight choreography. Fans who enjoyed the visual spectacle of Solo Leveling will find that Demon Slayer’s animation easily rivals, if not surpasses it. Paired with emotional storytelling, the series has secured its place among the most impactful modern anime that fans cannot miss.
Jujutsu Kaisen
Jujutsu Kaisen follows Yuji Itadori, an ordinary high school student who is pulled into the world of Jujutsu Sorcerers and curses after swallowing a powerful cursed object, the finger of the legendary demon, Ryomen Sukuna. He joins the sorcerers and trains to control his newfound abilities while combating malevolent curses that threaten humanity.
Yuji finds himself at Tokyo Jujutsu High, where he learns to battle alongside new allies Megumi, Nobara, and his mentor Gojo. The series stands out for its morally complex characters and dynamic fight scenes, as well as its sharp humor and intriguing power systems. Jujutsu Kaisen is ideal for those who are looking for a fast-paced storyline and stunning visuals.
Kaiju No. 8
Kaiju No. 8 follows Kafka Hibino, a sanitation worker in his 30s who cleans up kaiju corpses while dreaming of joining the Defense Force. One day, he unexpectedly gains the ability to transform into one of the monsters himself, forcing him to face the challenges of concealing the transformation and taking part as a new recruit of the Defense Force.
Kafka joins the elite force to fulfill a childhood promise to his friend Mina to fight alongside her against the kaiju. For years, Mina had been part of the Defense Force as one of the top kaiju hunters, leaving Kafka to catch up as he faced these destructive monsters and the pressure of proving himself.
The series balances intense action with meaningful character arcs, each with its own reasons for joining the Defense Force. With themes of perseverance, redemption, and self-discovery. It’s a fresh take on the shōnen genre, standing out for its focus on an older protagonist. The scale of its conflicts is thrilling, and fans will find themselves hooked after one episode.
Shangri-La Frontier
Shangri-La Frontier centers on Rakuro Hizutome, a high school gamer called Sunraku in-game. He’s known for taking on notoriously broken and faulty titles before turning his attention to the cutting-edge VRMMORPG (Virtual Reality Massively Multiplayer Online Role-Playing Game). His unconventional skills from "trash games" give him an edge that other players lack, making his journey unpredictable and exciting.
Shangri-La Frontier stands out for its unique approach to VRMMO stories. Instead of relying on typical power fantasies, the series focuses on resourcefulness, adaptability, and discovery. The world is detailed, rich, and filled with exciting quests and battles. Anyone passionate about gaming and who values strategy as much as strength will find the anime to be both fresh and immersive.
Frieren: Beyond Journey's End
Frieren: Beyond Journey's End follows the titular character, an elven mage, after the legendary defeat of the Demon King. Frieren’s centuries-long lifespan gives her a unique perspective on time, morality, and the fleeting nature of human life. As she travels with new companions, the story explores reflection, growth, and legacy.
The series stands out from other anime due to its introspective tone and complex emotional depth. Rather than relying on constant action, it offers a reflective experience as Frieren makes sense of her feelings toward her late companions from the Party of Heroes. With beautiful visuals and a cozy atmosphere, Frieren delivers an experience unlike anything else.
To Be Hero X
To Be Hero X is a Chinese anime set in a world where heroes earn their powers through "Trust Values." The story follows "X," a mysterious figure at the top of the rankings along with several other heroes, as they navigate hero rankings, a society that controls hero power, the pressure of fame, and the darker realities behind the scenes.
To Be Hero X is an anthology of different perspectives and experiences of being a hero. With high ratings and growing popularity, the series combines eye-catching animation that seamlessly blends 3D and 2D styles, along with intense fight scenes that set it apart from other titles. Fans of Solo Leveling will find To Be Hero X to be a thrilling and rewarding experience.
- Release Date
- 2024 - 2025-00-00
- Network
- Tokyo MX, Gunma TV, BS11, Tochigi TV
- Directors
- Tatsuya Sasaki, Toru Hamasaki
Cast
-
Taito BanSung Jin-woo -
Genta NakamuraYoo Jin-ho
WHERE TO WATCH
Solo Leveling follows Sung Jin-woo, the world's weakest hunter, who gains extraordinary powers through a mysterious program after surviving a brutal monster attack. As he navigates his newfound abilities, Jinwoo embarks on a quest to uncover the secrets of his powers and the dungeon that altered his fate.
