Sekai de Ichiban Tsuyoku Naritai! is about two leading members of a popular idol group named Sweet Diva, who find themselves in turmoil after Elena Miyazawa gets attacked and injured during a recording of a television program. An arrogant and cocky female professional wrestler named, Rio Kazama was to blame for that incident. In the aftermath, Rio would hurl insults at both Elena and her fellow idol group member Sakura Hagiwara in order to instigate a match between Rio and Sakura. The determined 17-year-old Sakura wasn’t going to sit back and take things lightly. Hoping to defend her friend's honor, Sakura takes a leave of absence from Sweet Diva, in order to train and become the best female professional wrestler. The two most compelling elements in Sekai de Ichiban Tsuyoku Naritai! is the plot and the fanservice. Sakura’s determination is clear, she knows what she wants and she is more than willing to put forth the effort to get there. The plotline of Keijo!!!!!!!! may not seem similar at first glance but we assure you there are comparable elements between the two anime. For example, both Sakura and Nozomi Kaminashi take part in their respected physical sports with two goals in mind. Nozomi’s is to become the very best Keijo player and to earn a fortune for her and her family. Both Sakura and Nozomi are motivated by someone close to them to join a sport with the intentions of becoming the very best. These female-heavy series have a considerable amount of fanservice. During their matches, regardless of their location, breasts and butts become the featured attraction. If you enjoy seeing females in contact sports showcasing their “assets” this one is for you.

The story takes place in a world where all humanity lives on giant aircraft carriers. On these carriers, they support unique sporting events that involve the use of tanks in a military-themed environment. Tankery is the name of the popular sport that many high school girls take part in. A traumatic event caused Miho Nishizumi to not only dislike Tankery but to abandon the sport altogether. She even transfers to a new school in hopes that she doesn’t have to deal with the sport ever again. Miho’s life changes forever after an unsuspecting twist forced her to join the newly resurrected high school Tankery team. Now Miho has to put aside her troubling past in order to lead her team to the National Tankery Championships. When we think of Keijo!!!!!!!! one of the first things we think about is how peculiar the sport really is. It bears similarities to sumo wrestling but it stands out on its own for its emphasis on boobs and butts. When it comes to Girls und Panzer, the sport known as Tankery, also fits nicely categorized as a unique sport. It’s not every day that you see a military-themed tank combat sport. Keijo showcases a semi-sumo wrestling experience, which takes place on platforms over water. You see what we’re getting at here? If these distinctive combat sports don’t do it for you, then perhaps the overwhelming estrogen-filled cast will. Both in Keijo!!!!!!!! and Girls und Panzer you see a large cast of females who take part in these sports and do battle with one another. They’re cute, powerful and do quirky things, it seems like we have a winner here.

Matsutarou Sakaguchi is a large roughneck man who possesses strength way beyond the ordinary human being. When it comes to sumo wrestling, Matsutarou is unrivaled. Unfortunately for Matsutarou, he carries with him some vices that hinder his talent. Despite having unmatched strength, Matsutarou’s personality leaves a lot to be desired. Intellectually he suffers from making good decisions. Matsutarou is lazy and disrespectful; which gets him into trouble at home, school and even with the law. He makes very little effort to improve his intelligence and the only reason he goes to school is because of his attraction to Reiko, a teacher at his school. Matsutarou will have to smarten up if he wants to become a full-fledged sumo wrestler. Selecting Abarenbou Rikishi!! Matsutarou was a no brainer to add to this list. Sure, Abarenbou Rikishi!! Matsutarou doesn’t focus on fanservice much like Keijo!!!!!!!! but the most obvious similarity is the sport itself. As we mentioned earlier, Keijo the sport is essentially sumo wrestling. The only real difference is there is more emphasis on breasts and butts, and that it takes place over water instead of a circular ring on dry ground. Both Nozomi and Matsutarou are supremely skilled with the physical nature of their sports. They both are naturally gifted individuals that have all the promise in the world. If Nozomi can realize her potential she will become a powerhouse in the combat sport known as Keijo. The physicality, comedy, and drama from Keijo!!!!!!!!, are all present in Abarenbou Rikishi!! Matsutarou, just don’t expect fanservice.

Kuroko no Basket follows two exceptionally skilled basketball players who join the Seirin High School team in order to win the Interhigh Championship. Taiga Kagami is a promising player who is returning from the United States and Tetsuya Kuroko is a non-athletic individual who is able to get by completely unnoticed to opposing teams. Tetsuya was a part of the Teikou Junior High School team where he thrived as the "Phantom Sixth Man," who sets up his teammates with spectacular passes. In order for the Seirin High School basketball team to have a chance at the championship, they are going to have to bond together and take down some of the more powerful teams in the tournament. This includes Tetsuya’s former teammates. If you’ve never seen Kuroko no Basket before you might ask how they are similar. On the surface they don’t appear to have a ton in common; one is a basketball anime and the other is a peculiar sports anime. However, don’t let that fool you. The first comparable element in both series is the over the top skill sets that each player possesses. Kuroko no Basket is not portrayed as a realistic basketball anime. There are many enjoyable moments that are exaggerated in Kuroko no Basket. For example, successful passes from one side of the court to the other or making low probability three-point shots easily. Keijo!!!!!!!! isn’t any more realistic in their portrayal of their sport. We are treated to vacuum butt cannons that literally destroy the swimsuits on the recipients and lightning-quick, wedgie induced, butt attacks. These anime aren’t to be taken seriously but are tremendously fun to watch.

Air Gear tells a story about a young man named Itsuki Minami who had his butt handed to him by a street gang of Storm Riders. He wasn’t going to take that lying down, so one day he finds a pair of Air Treck motorized roller blades from another gang and wears them proudly. As his blading journey begins to unfold, Itsuki has to earn respect from other gangs, while developing his own street gang to participate in more fights. Once Itsuki and his gang generate enough experience, then they will be able to take a stranglehold on the territories that compete in the AT street racing/fighting world. We present an over the top sport with voluptuous females and enough fanservice to shake a stick at. Which anime did we just describe? It’s actually a trick question because that description is valid for both of these anime. Air Gear brings a twist to a sport that involves rollerblading among the streets. It has high-octane action and deliberate ecchi moments. In comparison, Keijo!!!!!!!! brings a twist to sumo wrestling, focusing less on the physical strength and more on athleticism. The focal point for Keijo!!!!!!!! is the proverbial, groping, squeezing and slapping of flesh between girls of all sizes. We have found out in Keijo!!!!!!!! there are at least three different styles of attacking. This also rings true in Air Gear, as various characters have their own special technique that will give them a different approach to how they combat their enemies.

Fifteen-year-old Souma Yukihira developed a passion for cooking at a young age. When Souma was a child he assisted his father at his restaurant that he owned and operated in. Souma’s dream is to one day take over for his father and own his family’s restaurant and act as the head chef. Souma’s dream takes a detour once he finds out that his father’s restaurant is closing down. However, his father wants Souma to continue with his cooking education, so he sends him to Tootsuki Culinary Academy to learn from the best. Tootsuki is known for its high-stakes food showdowns that will push Souma’s skills to the test. After careful evaluation, we have concluded that Souma and Nozomi share several things in common. As far as personality goes, they both share a strong drive to become the best at what they do. Souma creates odd dishes like grilled squid tentacles dressed in peanut butter to appease his desires. Not to be outdone, Nozomi also tries out quirky ideas in order to better herself. An example of that would be in episode three when she is given the UTM (Ujibe's Training Maillot) to wear for a month. Motivation comes to both of these characters by way of their own family; Souma with his father and Nozomi with her impecunious parents. While Keijo!!!!!!!! is drenched in ecchi moments, the same cannot be said with Shokugeki no Souma. However, if you’re looking for some fanservice, Shokugeki no Souma will deliver on that front, just don’t expect to see females in swimwear the majority of the time.

Let’s start off the list with an anime that hits close to Kiss Him, Not Me, minus the reverse harem. Sakaguchi Ryou is not your typical high school boy, as he is a full-fledged Fundanshi -a boy that likes male x male romance. However, he has one certain dilemma, he doesn’t have any friends who are also Fundanshi like him. Join him as he goes through OTP ship wars, mistaken sexuality because of BL, buying BL Doujinshi alone, and a whole lot more! Fundanshi Koukou Seikatsu is written by another famous BL mangaka, Michinoku Atami, who is more known for her deep and somewhat realistic plot in yaoi mangas. BL lovers will surely enjoy this show as they can relate on a spiritual level. In this anime, it is quite evident that Nishihara Rumi and Sakaguchi Ryou can be similar to our heroine in Kiss Him, Not Me, Serinuma Kae. They are both Fujoshi and/or Fundanshi by heart. Both anime tackle the life and everyday struggles of being a BL lover, and really it’s quite hard when they have such wide imaginations. From not falling in love because of their OTP’s to pairing real life people, they practically mirror each other! We also get to see the different sides of being a Fujoshi and a Fundanshi despite having the same obsessions for BL. To put it simply, this show parodies the real-life adventures of BL lovers in a comedic way just like in Kiss Him, Not Me. The episodes are fairly short; nonetheless, it delivers the comedy nicely. Go ahead and watch Fundanshi Koukou Seikatsu as it will surely never disappoint!

Sakura Chiyo has gathered all her might to confess to her crush, Nozaki Umetarou. Unfortunately, Nozaki is as dense as a rock and mistakens Chiyo as his fan. It is then revealed that Nozaki and the well-known shoujo mangaka, Yumeno Sakiko, are one and the same! Chiyo ends up as Nozaki’s assistant all the while still trying her best to get Nozaki to notice her feelings. One main point that is very similar to Kiss Him, Not Me is that both main characters, Nozaki and Serinuma, are very oblivious to the advances of the people who are fond of them. Chiyo tries so hard to get the attention of Nozaki but it ends up with her helping him in his ridiculous antics. Just like how the four boys are constantly making the moves on Serinuma but ends up in her weird shenanigans. Both shows also have their very own female prince-type character. In Gekkan Shoujo, it’s Kashima Yuu; while in Kiss Him, Not Me, it’s Nishina, Shina who, by the way, is also a doujinshi writer, unlike Nozaki who is a shoujo mangaka. If our first selection parodies the life of BL lovers, Gekkan Shoujo parodies the genre shoujo like Kiss Him, Not Me. Gekkan Shoujo is a romantic comedy that will appeal to anyone. This show is surely a highly recommended anime, so why not give it a watch?

Haruhi Fujioka, a scholarship candidate from a prestigious school, just wants to find a proper place to study. However, when Haruhi opened the door to the music room, the scholarship candidate was greeted by a bunch of handsome hosts! Frantic about their unexpected approach, Haruhi accidentally breaks a vase that is worth 8 million. Without the means to pay the vase, the host club takes Haruhi as their errand boy, and each member begins to realize that Haruhi is a girl after all! Similarly, Ouran High School Host Club and Kiss Him, Not Me are reverse harem anime that don’t follow the basics or the norm of the genre. Both of these shows are unique in regards to their plot and execution, but very similar when it comes to the overall atmosphere of the anime. Besides having almost the same vibe as Kiss Him, Not Me, it also parallels some of the characters’ situations, mainly our heroines in both shows. Serinuma and Haruhi have “transformed” into whole new people because of a certain event, they got their first kiss with an unexpected character, have been chased by a certain handsome woman and are always surrounded by handsome young men, who have their very own distinct personality archetypes. If you are trying to find an anime that is very close to Kiss Him, Not Me, then Ouran High School Host Club is definitely a choice that you won’t regret.

Four handsome young boys are allowed to stay at a luxurious mansion for free in the condition that they must transform Sunako Nakahara into a perfect lady. They thought it was easy until they realized that Sunako is far off in the deep end with her gloomy self and her dark horrendous atmosphere. To make it worse, they can’t fully approach Sunako as every time she sees good looking people, she ends up with a nosebleed, making their advances towards her useless. The similarity of these two anime is that our main heroines are obsessed with their hobbies. Serinuma likes anime and BL related things while Sunako loves anything that is dark, scary, and gory. Both also “transform” in a way, but unlike Serinuma’s sudden change, Sunako’s is a bit slower, as Serinuma’s change is due to a shocking experience while Sunako’s change is intended from the start by her aunt. The show is also a reverse harem anime with the boys of both shows having the same weird expressions when their respective heroines are fangirling or fantasizing about their obsessions. However, in spite of this, they slowly but continuously respect their main heroines, support them in their hobbies and become personally attached to them throughout the whole process of the show. The only big difference between these two is that Yamato Nadeshiko’s boys don’t pursue Sunako romantically, except for the main guy; while Serinuma is being pursued by the main boys that surround her. Yamato Nadeshiko is very exaggerated and more random than Kiss Him, Not Me, but that’s what makes this show enjoyable and adorable! It’s very funny and sweet, another good choice in your watch list.

Hikigaya Hachiman’s world is turned upside down when his teacher punishes him for writing an essay that is filled with disgust towards relationships between people. His punishment? To join a volunteer service club in order to help students in their predicament. In the club, he meets the “Ice-cold beauty” Yukino Yukinoshita and the bubbly girl Yui Yuigahama. My Teen Romantic Comedy is deeper and more serious compared to Kiss Him, Not Me and our other listed selections. However, despite the heavy issues that this anime has to offer, it also showcases romance and comedy, just like in Kiss Him, Not Me. Overall, Kiss Him, Not Me and My Teen Romantic Comedy are anime about school life and its colorful and funny interactions. If you want something that is a bit more realistic when it comes to romantic comedies, then My Teen Romantic Comedy SNAFU is right for you! It has a 2nd season and an OVA so it’s a good binge watch without waiting for it every week.

Ever since she was young, Tachibana Hotaru has had a strong sense of justice. That’s why when Hotaru misunderstood her friend, Kanae, and thought that a host had tricked her, Hotaru immediately went to the host club to punish the evildoer. There, she meets Matsuoka Masamune and is introduced to the world of survival games. When the match was done and Tachibana emerged as the loser, Matsuoka invites Tachibana to his survival game team “Toy Gun Gun” to pay up the damage that Hotaru has caused in the host club. Aoharu x Machinegun may not be another reverse harem in our list but hey, Tachibana Hotaru is surrounded by hot male guys. Just like Kiss Him, Not Me, Aoharu x Machinegun is filled with funny and cute sweet moments. Not only that, Tachibana and Serinuma are very similar in that both characters are strong-willed, naive, and mostly oblivious to their surroundings. And just like how the boys in Kiss Him, Not Me do not realize that Serinuma is an otaku and BL lover until she shows/admits it, Aoharu x Machinegun’s Matsuoka and Yukimura are completely unaware that Tachibana is a girl, despite people from outside their team noticing that she is indeed a girl. This show is certainly heavy in action but that is only a plus for this gorgeous anime.

Soul Buster is based on a Chinese historical novel during the time of the Three Kingdoms’ era, in Jingzhou, China. We start this anime with a clip of a high school student, Shin Son, in a deep sleep, experiencing a crazy nightmare. He has fallen asleep in his least favorite course, history. After Shin awakes from his nightmare, he has no recollection of how he arrives in the nurse’s office. From this point on, Shin continues to experience strange occurrences that can’t be explained. Topping this, Shin finds himself in the presence of a general from the Romance of the Three Kingdoms, who unbeknownst to him is trying to kill him. Luckily, in this near death experience, a mysterious woman saves Shin. From this, Shin is baffled as he watches a great battle unfold within the Three Kingdoms. Although the settings are different with Soul Buster and Lostorage Incited Wixoss, both capture the essence of card playing in relation to one’s survival. Additionally, Shin from Soul Buster and Suzuko from Lostorage are somewhat thrusted into their situation, acting on wit and whim to dig themselves out of their mess. Their avatar, although reluctant at first, aids them in their conflict every step of the way, therefore peaking their interest and helping them focus on their task.

Kidou Tenshi Angelic Layer, also known as Battle Doll Angelic Layer, is about junior high school student Misaki Suzuhara and her advancement in the game known as Angelic Layer. Angelic Layer is on the rise and so is Misaki. Using electronic dolls called Angels to battle other competitors, Misaki is knocking out each of her opponents, showing advanced skills and great potential. Episode after episode, we will watch Misaki grow and enter various tournaments, making her way to the Angelic Layer championship. Both of these anime contain a cast of adorable youngsters with an amazing ability that is not recognized from the start, but slowly develops and shines with each experience. Misaki from Battle Doll Angelic Layer and Suzuko from Lostorage start their respective battle games with little knowledge as beginners. As such, both of these anime demonstrate that qualities and abilities can be developed and, over time, lead to success and efficacy.

Future Card Buddyfight is adapted from the popularization of the manga and collectible card game under the same name. This action-packed adventure anime takes place in a time where creatures coexist with humanity through the use of Buddy Rare Cards. In 2030, with these cards acting as portals from one world to another, these creatures establish close friendships, growing to rely on one another and together, compete against other cardholders in friendly competition. However, there are those that don’t use the power of Buddy Monsters for the right reasons. Our main character, Gao Mikado, plays Buddyfight, just as all of his friends do. However, things change for Gao and his outlook on the game, when he draws a card from his pack with a very distinguished character that’ll overall alter his life. Both anime involve card playing and exhaustively dueling characters. The animation for Future Card Buddyfight is very visually appealing with bright, vibrant colors, while Lostorage Incited Wixoss portrays a darker element and psychologically provoking undertones. Although each anime produces a very different style, the key similarity is card playing and, essentially, how profound and exciting it becomes in Gao and Suzuko lives.

Fantasista Doll is a magical shoujo involving cards. Uzume Uno is your average middle school student, in that there aren’t much extraordinary things to comment about her. However, this changes, when one day in her average life, Uzume finds some mysterious cards that possess magical abilities. These cards contain five Fantasista Dolls, who once in contract, can be summoned by their card master. With that being said, Uzume becomes their master. Throughout the show, we watch her battle with skill and strategy, in a game that once began as a pastime, but grows into the fight to save everyone’s lives. Fantasista Doll and Lostorage Incited Wixoss offer a cast of adorable female characters who must fight with their trading cards. Fatasista Doll utilizes very bright animation, is very amusing and entertaining, and offers a bit of comedic relief. Contrasting this, Lostorage presents to viewers somewhat of an edgier element. Both highlight the competitive nature of trading card games and the necessity to learn the game.

Cardfight!! Vanguard captures the story of Aichi Sendo, a shy middle school student living in the distant future. Aichi’s timid nature keeps him from interacting with many people, who all seem to be involved in the latest trend of trading card games, Vanguard. This card game has enveloped the lives of all who play, a global sweeping phenomenon, in addition to a planet called “Cray” where many duel throughout card play. Although a novice player, Aichi holds dear a vary rare card, “Blaster Blade”. Unfortunately, this card was taken from him. From that incident, he gets swept into the world of Vanguard, where he hopes to challenge the thief to get his beloved card back. While we find the similarity of the trading card game theme for both Cardfight!! Vanguard and Lostorage Incited Wixoss, Aichi Sendo and Suzuko Homura share almost identical personalities. Somewhat very solitary, Aichi and Suzuko’s participation of Vanguard and Wixoss, respectively, has gotten them to unwind when it comes to new found social interactions. However, Aichi and Suzuko have involved themselves with a game meant to boost confidence and build friendships, but in turn, they are now involved in a high stakes situation.

Yu-Gi-Oh: Duel Monsters centers around an incredibly popular card game under the same name. Yuugi Mutou, our protagonist, is an avid player, along with his close friends. Yuugi, perchance, solves the mysterious puzzle of the seven millennial objects, ancient artifacts given to him by his grandfather from Egypt. After assembling this puzzle, the spirits within it awaken, possessing him and creating an alternate Yuugi. In every shape and form, alternate Yuugi happens to be a tad bit more suave than he is, especially when it comes to his skills in the Duel Monsters game. In dealing with this artifact, Yuugi learns that Pegasus, the guy who created Duel Monsters, has stolen his grandfather’s soul. Consequently, Yuugi is forced to participate in the Duel Monsters game. As such, Yuugi is faced with this plight and must handle Duel Monsters with supreme vigilance. In comparing Yu-Gi-Oh! Duel Monsters with Lostorage Incited Wixoss, both anime discuss card games and battling in an alternate reality. The main characters have individuals that represent them while in battle. With the dark undertones expressed in each anime, the characters experience a similar distress and fear when dueling with their opponent. From this, playing these card games can have a profound impact on their lives.

Hino Kahoko is part of the normal branch at her school, but there exists a music branch. The music branch students are usually the only ones to participate in the school’s annual music competition, but this year, Kahoko has met a fairy who has entered her into the music competition and given her a magical violin. Perhaps the one reverse harem that comes to mind immediately when watching Magic-Kyun! Renaissance is La Corda D’Oro ~Primo Passo~, which is the first season of La Corda D’Oro if you haven’t seen it yet. The first thing you will notice is how Kahoko seems to be lacking in talent like Kohana, but she is surrounded by these talented musicians who seem to think that she’s got the talent to participate. However, the boys will teach Kahoko that while she may not believe it, she has real talent hidden beneath everything. Kahoko helps each one of the bishounen in La Corda D’Oro ~Primo Passo~, discover something within themselves they would not have otherwise found out while they help Kahoko realize there’s more to her than she believes. There is no doubt that La Corda D’Oro ~Primo Passo~ is a lot like Magic-Kyun! Renaissance.

Nanami Haruka dreams of becoming a composer so that she can one day write for the idol of her dreams, Ichinose Hayato. Accomplishing this means that she must attend Saotome Academy, which is known for their performing arts studies. While Haruka is meeting all sorts of talented people at Saotome Academy, one man sticks out to her the most. The next anime that is no doubt like Magic-Kyun! Renaissance has to be Uta no☆Prince-sama♪ Maji Love 1000%, which also has a sequel playing this season (be sure to catch up and watch it!). Much like La Corda D’Oro ~Primo Passo~, Uta no☆Prince-sama♪ Maji Love 1000% is comparable to Magic-Kyun! Renaissance due to the presence of a heroine who clearly does not see her own talent, but she finds herself surrounded by talented young men who all bring out something special that Haruka wasn’t even aware existed. Much like Magic-Kyun! Renaissance, you get to witness the changes Haruka instills in everyone’s life in Uta no☆Prince-sama♪ Maji Love 1000%. She brings something special to the table, and these talented boys find that they really need her, regardless of whether they were aware of it before.

Tohru was living with her grandfather after the loss of her other but when his home needed to be renovated, Tohru took to living in a tent outside. It was here where Tohru was found by her classmate Souma Yuki who invited her to stay with his family for the time being. Unfortunately, Tohru discovered the dark secret of the Souma while living there: members of the Souma family turn into animals of the Chinese zodiac when embraced by members of the opposite sex! And now, we have Fruits Basket, which isn’t really a reverse harem nor is it a bishounen anime, but it shan’t be neglected! Like the others, Fruits Basket features Tohru, a girl who seems like your typical airhead, but in fact, she may be the key to healing the members of the Souma family who have been wrought with anguish since childhood. Tohru does not have talent in any way, but she has a lot of love, something that she is ready to give to anyone who needs it. Luckily, that is just what the members of the Souma family need. However, underlying the rather lightheartedness that is Fruits Basket, there is more than meets the eye. Every character seems to have his or her own story and dark past. Whether it's love, loss, or feelings of abandonment, Tohru may be just the person to fix everything.

Five students have been chosen to try out for the Ayanagi Academy musical department. Yuuta, Tooru, Kaito, Kakeru, and Shuu must find a way to work together and be accepted by the Star Frame Class, who will be taught my the most talented members of the musical department, but they’ll need to find their balance first. Starmyu is the only anime on this list of 6 anime like Magic-Kyun! Renaissance that isn’t a reverse harem (or reverse harem-like, in Fruits Basket’s case). However, do not let that deter you from watching it! Starmyu is a bishounen anime in which the viewer is able to see how the characters are all linked together and build relationships with each other, much like the characters in Magic-Kyun! Renaissance. You can see how their friendships are born and what truly brings them closer, despite all the things that go on in Starmyu. You will just have to tune in and watch Starmyu to experience it all first.

Tsubasa is new to Gandala Music, but she’s been given a very important job. Tsubasa has been tasked with supervising B-Project, a unit consisting of three different idol groups. As Tsubasa learns what it takes to be the manager of such an important group, she’ll find out that there is more to each idol than their on-stage persona. B-Project: Kodou*Ambitious is a reverse harem anime much like Magic-Kyun! Renaissance where the main character, Tsubasa, takes her time to get to know each one of the boys apart of B-Project. While Tsubasa does so due to her responsibilities, each one of the bishounen finds that there is something about Tsubasa that fascinates him, much like the boys in Magic-Kyun! Renaissance who discover that while Kohana does not seem all that extraordinary, there is a special quality about her beyond that of magic. While not much can be said about the rest of Magic-Kyun! Renaissance quite yet, B-Project: Kodou*Ambitious has its fair share of drama, not to mention that there is a good amount of fan service for those who just love the bishounen in bishounen anime. Check it out!

Kusanagi Yui finds herself whisked away to a world where she must teach a handful of young gods about humanity. They have lost their affection for humankind, but it’s up to Yui to bring it back. However, should Yui fail at rehabilitating these gods, they will all be stuck in this world for eternity! Last but certainly not least, we bring to you Kamigami no Asobi which shares a similar storytelling technique as Magic-Kyun! Renaissance. You get to explore the relationship between the main character and each of the boys as Yui tries to draw them out of their shells to build a relationship with them, much the way Kohana does in Magic-Kyun! Renaissance. They both also possess supernatural aspects which take away from most of the slice of life elements. However, Kamigami no Asobi does feature some rather interesting backstories for many of the characters, including Hades. If you want to get to know any of the characters, well, you’ll have to watch and find out yourself.

Nishizumi Miho is born from the distinguished family of the Nishizumi Style of Sensha-dou, an art of operating tanks, but changes schools to run away from Sensha-dou after a traumatic experience. As fate would have it, Miho is drafted to her new school’s tank club. The nations are not at war and the idea of girls piloting World War-era tanks as part of the school’s curriculum is silly, but it totally works here in Girls und Panzer. Schools hosting war games, using tanks, and carrying live ammunition, is the best part of the show. Well, obviously! Though not as tragic as Izetta, they both share that special bond between girls and who needs their trust and cooperation in order to win battles. The tank team will lose if the gunner has zero faith in her commander and coordinator. Izetta and Finé shared this special bond when they were younger and while Finé had some concerns with Izetta’s decision to help her nation using magic, Finé still trusts in Izetta’s decisions and will continue to do so.

Strike Witches is set in an alternate 1944, where the world found alien invaders instead of the Axis. These invaders are called the Neuroi and mysteriously appeared before humanity in the year 1939. It is unknown where the Neuroi came from and why they are here but it is a fact, their relentless attacks drove people from their homes and countries. To combat the Neuroi threat, humanity has devised a new type of weapon that harnesses magical energy. In order for these weapons to work, they gathered every magic-using witches from around the world. These elite groups of young witches are called the Strike Witches, and they are the first and last line of defense against the Neuroi threat. The main and striking similarities between Shuumatsu no Izetta and Strike Witches are that the main characters are witches and they fly using weapons or technology, instead of the traditional broom. Izetta uses telekinesis and can turn everything around her into a projectile. Her main weapon is a modified anti-tank rifle that also acts as her means of flight. In Strike Witches, they use specialized legwear that are based on warplanes of World War II, to channel their powers and achieve flight. Izetta would feel right at home if she ever ends up in the world of Strike Witches.

Humanity has lost control of the oceans to the mysterious alien-like beings known as the “Deep Sea Fleet”, and the only hope of defeating them is the Kanmusu, a group of young girls possessing the spirits of Japanese warships. The story revolves around Fubuki, a destroyer who enlisted to train and fight together with other Kanmusu. This anime is pretty similar to Strike Witches and in turn, similar to Shuumatsu no Izetta. They share the same themes of war, fighting together with their female compatriots, but set in the ocean. There're a lot of girls in KanColle, so each group has their own unique camaraderie because a spirit of an aircraft carrier needs the support from spirits of a destroyer, for example.

In the distant future, mankind has mastered the means of warp travel which allows them to explore the galaxy like never before. Through many expeditions, we discover a race of insectoid creatures known as “space monsters”, and they have a nasty appetite for destroying worlds. Fearing these space monsters would discover Earth, mankind has developed fighting robots piloted by hand-picked youth who use them as their main line of defense. One of these specially hand-picked pilots is Takaya Noriko, a brash young girl who became partners with her polar opposite and beautiful, Amano Kazumi. Compared to other anime on this list, the setting of the Top wo Narae! Gunbuster is in the far future, but like what the narrator said in the Fallout games: “War never changes”. The encounters of the space monsters, Noriko and Kazumi, are very deadly when piloting the super robot Gunbuster, so they need to keep their wits or it’s one big impalement. The responsibility of saving the world is now in their hands and rightfully so, because they're a team like no other, despite having conflicting personalities. Noriko is the brawn and Kazumi is the brains. Izetta and Finé are from the same mold. Though they don't fight inside a robot, they work together and put their trust in each other, otherwise, the fate of their small country will be uncertain. Izetta is the brawn (and breasts, apparently) with her magic and Finé is the brains with her politics.

An enemy nation crossed the raging seas via airship and finally reached the Holy Land. After many repeated attempts, the invading nation couldn’t unravel its many secrets because standing in their way, is a small group of ships called Simoun and they possess the power to destroy armies. Aer, one of the series’ main protagonist, was recruited to be one of the new pilots of the Simoun after the enemy decimated a Simoun squadron. Is the balance of power tipping over or will Aer and the new pilots stop these invaders from destroying their Holy Land? Simoun is a rare breed of anime with a mix of a compelling story, rich lore, and music, that are rolled into one coming-of-age story involving a group of young girls “praying”, or in this case, piloting the Simoun as they defend their Holy Land from invaders. In the war-torn world of Shuumatsu no Izetta, the Archduchess Finé, her Royal Guards (majority are women), and the White Witch Izetta defend their nation from another powerful nation bent on seizing Elystadt and capturing Izetta to harness her power. The settings are different and Simoun has more world building, thanks to its 26 episode length, but both shows still share the same theme. Like the struggles of war, its consequences, and the hardships people had to endure. Izetta and Finé are pretty much similar to Aer and Neviril: Both need each other and one cannot survive without the other.

When Sorami Kanata was a young child, she was saved by a beautiful soldier and found hope and inspiration when hearing her play the trumpet. From that day onward, Kanata decided music would be her life. A few years later, she enlisted in the army and was the newest member of the 1121st Platoon of the Helvetian Army. From there, she learns the ropes in becoming a soldier and also trains to be the platoon's bugler. The bulk of the story isn’t set on the front lines like the majority of the entries here, nor does it have some magical elements like Shuumatsu no Izetta, Kancolle and Strike Witches. It also doesn't have a very deep and intricate storyline like Simoun, but one of the greatest strengths of So Ra No Wo To is the focus of Sorami Kanata and the girls in the 1121st Platoon. What makes this related to Shuumatsu no Izetta? Aside from the similar European setting and similar timeline, the relationship between girl soldiers, and both handled by writer Yoshino Hiroyuki, there’s nothing much else. Shuumatsu no Izetta does focus more on the war and has a lot of action sequences but there are moments, or even an episode, where they’re dedicated to fleshing out the characters in a rather slice of life, way. This approach makes the characters relatable and easy to approach if ever you meet the in real life. The same thing can be said about So Ra No Wo To, albeit, in a reverse kind of way — most of the time the episodes play out like a slice of life show but there are moments where we see these girls getting behind tanks as soldiers.

Saitama looks completely average no matter how you look at him. Average height, average looks, oh and he’s bald. The only thing that is not average about him is his hobby; he’s a part-time superhero. He has trained nonstop to become a hero for the last three years and that is where he lost all of his hair. For some reason how he is incredibly powerful. How powerful you may ask? Well with one punch, he can defeat anyone. Crazy right? And yet here we are. One day he picks up 19-year-old Genos, who becomes his disciple in order to learn the ways of being a hero and saving the city while they both register as heroes with the Hero Association. Much like Saitama, Ossan is kinda easy going. His vices are money and women, but when it comes down to it, even if Min-chan scolds him, he lets it ride off his shoulders. Saitama too in the same way is a bit single-minded and not focused on a lot of other things. The humor between both is par none with the main character being the source of it. Prince, much like Genos, moves in with Yamada-san and Ossan, and at first is a rival to Ossan, but eventually comes around to his side. Not to mention too, the main characters, Saitama and Ossan are overpowered to a ridiculous point that nothing can kill them nor take them down. If you haven’t seen One Punch Man, now is the time to do so.

Panty and Stocking were angels. Angels that were kicked out of heaven for being rude, crude, and all around nasty! Part of their job now demands them running around the earth and defeating ghosts. Panty is a nymphomaniac, Stocking has a bad addiction to candy, and Garterbelt is just plain weird. They run around kicking butt in Daten City with one purpose; Heaven Coins. If they can amass enough of these, they can go back to heaven. Weird yet unique art, a strange story, and two unconventional angels. Here we go! Panty & Stocking is crude. The show specializes in crude humor and the same is true with the ever thirsty Ossan. Ossan is a lecher and we have already mentioned this so that is a source of humor and a bridge between the shows. You, of course, have the humor with P&S, but with To Be HERO, Ossan’s roommate, Yamada-san, is also a massive source of humor with his pervert exhibitionist attitude. Also, like it or not, Ossan is not a main character that you warm up too immediately, just like Panty and Stocking. While they are the heroes of the story, they are slightly off-putting at first, but they grow on you. Another thing about these two series is that while a central plot is introduced, it is quickly forgotten as the show becomes episodic. Not necessarily bad, but this might not cater to all.

Zhang Chulan decides to go to his hometown one day to visit the grave of his grandfather. Upon arriving, he is attacked by zombies? A mysterious girl who brandishes a butcher knife begins to kill the zombies leaving a path for him to escape, then he too must now run before they get him. Shaken, Chulan returns to university to find the girl Baobao now sitting in his class. After a decisive battle, he learns that he possesses a very unique ability and that foes will begin to rise one by one against him in hopes of either killing him or bringing him to their side. There is also Baobao who is now trying to pull him in another direction. What to do? Chulan’s life takes a turn for the unique now as he must find his way in this new world. Much like with To Be Hero, Hitori no Shita actually takes a tried and true concept that we all know as anime fans, and actually makes it into something new. Now, whether or not it is because these shows are both from Chinese novels/manga or not, is anyone’s guess. Regardless, it is quite enjoyable nonetheless. Both Chulan and Ossan, are obsessed, for different reasons, with the girl closest to them, even if Chulan does not realize it in the beginning. Also, does it even need to be said? Chulan and Ossan are both OP beyond their wildest dreams. Ossan may be trying his hardest to protect Min-chan, and he has yet to fail. These two also reflect the stereotypical rise of the hero within a story. Hero’s Journey anyone?

Fooly Cooly follows Naota, whose life is boring. His brother plays baseball in America, his grandfather lives with him and his father in their bakery, and Mamimi, his older brother’s ex-girlfriend, essentially stalks Naota and forces herself on him often. Be that as it may, one day an insane woman hits Naota with her Vespa bike, strikes him with a guitar and then screaming that he is useless, bolts off. Going home that night, she introduces herself as Haruko Haruhara, and has moved in as his housekeeper? Worse than that, though, is the horn he now has protruding from his forehead. A splitting headache later that night forces a robot to come out of his head and fight another? What is going on?! Naota can no longer have a normal life. FLCL is a classic for anime fans. If you have not seen it, stop right now, no really, leave this tab open, watch the show, and then keep on reading. FLCL and To Be HERO do sit well with each other. The humor is very random and to a certain extent, makes you often say to yourself “Wha-? who came up with this?” The stories of Ossan and Naota too, while there is a central plot, will make you question sometimes if they even exist? Ossan wants to become normal again and live with Min-chan whom he loves but… there are other factors and enemies weighing in. The randomness that exists from episode to episode is odd and lends to the humor between the two series. Check out the trailer below!

The future is here and Luluco lives in it. She lives in Ogikubo where people and aliens all love together in the only Space Immigration Zone on Earth. Luluco wants to be normal and has a crush on one of her classmates. Her father one day eats a sleep capsule by accident though and is turned into an ice block that Luluco adds insult to injury by breaking. She goes to the Space Patrol, where her father works for help and accidentally gets roped into working for them! Wearing the spacesuit of justice she goes to work as an undercover agent but what is really in store? Check out the PV below for more! Luluco and To Be Hero actually do hold similarities that one would not think of immediately. Both Stories between the two shows are tied to a central father figure. Luluco is trying to restore her father, while Ossan is trying to become the father that he previously was. Both too are short anime, so it is enough to keep you interested and entertained without being too long. Both Luluco and Ossan go through ridiculous transformations into their superhero/police forms, enough to make you laugh and remind you that this is a comedy anime. The humor as well is childish in nature and easily enjoyed.

Ryuuko Matoi’s father is murdered one day and holding half of what he created, the scissor blade. Ryuuko joins Honnouji Academy where she can hopefully find out some more information. However, Satsuki Kiryuuin runs the school with an iron fist as the student council president, and she is served by the elite four who wear special clothes to enhance just about everything about them! Ryuuko gets her butt handed to her one day and retreats where she comes across senketsu, a sentient uniform much like those that the elite four wear. Once it wakes up after having some of her blood, they team up to take down the bizarre Honnouji Academy and Satsuki Kiryuuin. However, can Ryuuko handle the secret behind the academy and the uniforms? Much like with Space Patrol Luluco, Ryuuko is searching for answers about her father like Ossan is trying to turn himself back into a normal person. Both of them, Ryuuko’s father and Ossan, have been subjected to something that they did not deserve, and so they have to figure out how to start from scratch and win. The humor is also the same where it is very stupid sometimes. It does not hurt to mention that Ryuuko and Ossan are a bit dense at times. They too also share the quality of not knowing when to give up and having semi-one track minds. They both share bizarre action scenes that are almost surreal at times. Ryuuko, much like Ossan as well goes through a bizarre transformation sequence. However, at the end of the day, a father-daughter relationship is shared between both.

A mysterious virus will kill those aged above 13, leaving only survivors. However, a species of vampire who has remained obscured for a long time now has risen up against humanity. Taking advantage of the weakness of mankind, they demanded the blood of the survivors in exchange for their protection. Tired of the new stratification, Mikaela planned to rebel against their new rulers but failed. Now, together with his friend from the orphanage, Yuuichirou, rally up against the vampires once more for vengeance. Perhaps akin to Bloodivores, Owari no Seraph carries the same elements from Bloodivores. Both animes are set in a bleak future whereby a virus threat endangers humanity. The rise of the vampires due to a virus outbreak, the two species are in conflict with another whereby their needs and agendas do not agree with the other. These are just some of the similarities with both animes. In fact, both series possess the same feels and vibes just that they have a different cast.

With the Industrial Revolution at its peak, everyone thought that the future will become brighter... or will it. Just when they thought that things cannot be any better, a virus emerged amidst the flourishing nations. 'Kabane' as they were known were formidable and the only deterrence against them is by destroying the core of their steel hearts. Now, cities are holed up behind walls as only the most protected cities are safe from the Kabanes. Ikoma has developed a weapon that he believes is strong enough to defeat the Kabane. However, he will soon realize that the deployment of the weapon may just be sooner than he thought. Both Bloodivores and Kanaberi are survival themed animes in which an opposing faction that is inhuman is threatening those that are humans. The origins and nature of these monsters are unknown. The only way to survive is to struggle while at the same time, discover the nature of these monsters. As such, both possess that slight amount of mystery to compel you to watch on. So if you're a fan of survival-mystery animes, you can give Kabaneri a shot too!

It finally happened. Parasitic aliens have invaded Earth, latching themselves onto unsuspecting civilians. Via burrowing into their brains, they completely take over humans and are able to morph into their alien forms. Unfortunately for one high schooler and his potential parasite, the process was not complete and they both exist simultaneously within the same body. Possessing alien information due to his newfound partner, Migi, Shinichi is forced to co-exist with him and take down the other parasites. The duo will soon realize that it is not as easy as it seemed. Bloodivores and Parasyte share the same premise of a foreign substance that could potentially wipe out all of humanity. Both protagonists are afflicted with the symptoms and must deal and adapt to their new environment. The goals for both animes are the same - to eradicate the threat while at the same time, understanding them better. They will learn to deal with their new found power while at the same time, understand what it feels like to be a part of humanity while at the same time, not. Should you be interested in an anime that portrays two sides of the faction, do check out Kiseijuu: Sei no Kakuritsu as well!

The great state of Tokyo has faced a threat that had never been seen before. These mysterious entities only known as Ghouls have swarmed over the population of the city. Not much is known about them except for the fact that they feast on human flesh. Had it not been their basic needs, they would be able to co-exist with humans. The most alarming part of the Ghouls is the fact that they look completely like humans and blend right into society. Humans can no longer trust each other as there is no ways to discern a human and a ghoul on the streets. The Ghouls of Tokyo Ghoul are reminiscent to the vampires of Bloodivores. Both groups require the flesh or blood of humans to survive. In Tokyo Ghoul however, the ghouls are heavily frowned upon and being a part of time can not only pose a threat to you by the humans, but from the ghouls as well. As such, in both animes, there are no benefits for being a part of the other. If a unique character is what you are looking for, Tokyo Ghoul may just be the next similar anime to Bloodivores!

16 year old Chizuru is the daughter of a doctor. When his work brings him away, she continues to write to him to keep in touch. When the letters stopped coming however, young Chizuru made a decision to travel all the way to Kyoto disguised as a male to find out what had happened to her father. Along the way however, she was attacked by a group of samurai. That would have been normal had she not encounter a supernatural event. Chizuru was captured and escorted to the base of her captors where she found out that they were known as the Shinsengumi. Now, only time will tell what will happen to her. Both shows are similar in the sense that the unusual beings are classed below the humans and how two individuals from both groups can form a relationship due to a chance encounter and a similar agenda. Both are pacifists and fight only when necessary in contrast to the usual bloodthirsty vampire depictions. Both animes feature characters with an extensive back story that leads up to the kind of person that they are. While not being identical, both animes have similar elements but a different story premise and setting. So if the setting or the premise of the story in Bloodivores is not to your liking, try giving Hakuoki a try to see if it matches your expectations!

Due to an outbreak of the Apocalypse Virus, the nation of Japan has since been in the control of the GHQ. A guerilla group known as the Funeral Parlor seeks to fight for the liberty of the Japan. During a mission, Inori, a member of the Parlor runs into Shu, a high school student who happens to wield the power of the Kings, an ability to draw manifested weapons from an individual. Shu unwillingly joins the Parlor in their struggle against the formidable GHQ. He now must balance between controlling his power and his relationship with the enigmatic songstress Inori, also known online as Egoist. Similar to Bloodivores, a viral outbreak threatens humanity causing our main characters to be enslaved as well. The nature of the viruses in both animes is pretty much unknown but its effects, devastating. It is up to the main characters to rebel against the outbreak while at the same time, find out the cause of the events that transpired before the virus. Both have plot twists and an eventual conclusion as well. There is an aura of obscurity throughout both series, as if there is much more than meets the eye. Interested, watch on to find out!

The self-confident and handsome Seishuu Handa is a calligrapher who sees his world full of certainties going down crumbling when his award-winning piece is labeled as “unoriginal”. While his world of self-confidence is broken, his father decides to punish him: he is exiled to the Goto Islands. Truth is, his father wishes for him to find a brand-new inspiration by experiencing hardships, and to learn how life isn't all about calligraphy. Torn apart and lost, Handa hopes to find at least peace on the Goto Islands... but little he knew about its inhabitants. His new life on the Goto Islands starts with a boisterous child called Naru that will revolutionize his life completely. As for the similarities Barakamon shares with Fune wo Amu, we can start by saying that both are slice of life shows. The two protagonists, Handa and Majime, have to face a new environment, with new people and so they will have to put themselves on the line and struggle. Both these shows revolve around two uncommon themes, for Barakamon it's the world of calligraphy. There's a pleasant feeling while watching these shows, and you can see how the main character grows step by step, getting to know himself better. Even though Handa and Majime are characters on the opposite sides, they share a determination that will bring them to give their best. These two shows depict the reality and nice vibes that make you want to ask for more. It's not a stretch to say that if you are enjoying Fune wo Amu, you'll enjoy Barakamon all the same!

The five members of the Kaminoyama High School animation club have to do their best on their first amateur work. After showing their work at the cultural festival, they make a promise to one day find a job in the anime industry and move to Tokyo. After two and a half years, Aoi Miyamori and Ema Yasuhara, two of the former five members of the Kaminoyama High School animation club, have turned that dream into reality. Hired by the Musashino Animation, nothing could seem to turn for the bad, they thought... and yet these two girls will face all the hardships to realize that the road toward your dreams is not always easy. With Shirobako we are in front of another rare gem in the anime world. Exactly like Fune wo Amu, this anime teaches about the creation of something through sweat and efforts. While Shirobako talks about the creation of an anime, Fune wo Amu talks about the creation of a dictionary. Different subject, but the same basic idea. What's more, both these shows describes the awesome and sometimes harsh realities behind the process, so even with Shirobako we are once again in front of a show that doesn't stray from reality. If you are enjoying Fune wo Amu, but you'd like to see some female protagonists struggling like our Majime Mitsuya in Fune wo Amu, you will love Shirobako for sure!

Yotarou has just stepped out of prison and begging Yakumo Yuurakutei to become his apprentice. That is because during his time in prison, Yotarou had the time to fall in love with Yakumo's performances of Rakugo – a comedic Japanese story telling. With Yotarou's pleas which don't seem to stop, Yakumo has nothing left to do than to accept an apprentice for the first time. That is a good chance for Yakumo as well to revisit his past and remember a promise he did to his greatest rival and biggest friend – Sukeroku Yuurakutei. Even though the period is different, these two anime share the same atmosphere. For starters, they both have mature themes and a similar art. In both, we find struggling industries, the Rakugo and the dictionary-making and the pace of both shows is slow and yet very smooth. The two main protagonists are also similar; we find in both shows two men who are on opposite sides. While one is easygoing and open, the other is awkward and shy. Yet, they help each other through everyday matters. These two shows share a realistic setting, with realistic happenings and relationships. If you are enjoying the atmosphere surrounding Fune wo Amu, you'll have the exact same feeling while watching Showa Genroku. Yes, but with more drama.

Moritaka Mashiro – an aspiring illustrator – and Akito Takagi – an aspiring writer – have one dream. They want to create a manga, and so they decide to join forces and fight for their dream. Mashiro wants to follow his uncle's steps and become a famous mangaka, what's more he wants that the girl he loves – who is an aspiring voice actress – will someday voice one of the characters he drawn. Takagi wants to help Mashiro, and wants to see his own stories take form from Mashiro's pen. But little they knew about hardships; facing other artists, going against the tide, they will struggle to finally realize their dreams. Bakuman and Fune wo Amu share a lot of characteristics. First of it all, both these shows describe all the efforts hidden behind the creation of something that all of us enjoy/use in the daily life. Their strong point is that all the processes are depicted in a way that never make the viewers feel bored, but they keep the curiosity set to high instead. Bakuman has a big range of different characters, who interact in a very realistic way; it's the same with Fune wo Amu. These shows are realistic and display in a very actual way how, step by step, what creating a manga, or a dictionary, feels like. If you like non-conventional protagonists, slice of life shows, and the feeling of reality, Bakuman must be the next step.

Chihaya has always lived in the shadow of her sister. It's the fated meeting with Arata Wataya that changes her life. Arata introduces Chihaya to the world of karuta, which is a card game involving physical and mental skills. When Chihaya falls in love with karuta, she realizes she has a goal: to become number one in Japan. Together with Arata and her friend Taichi, the three of them spend their childhood playing karuta, until their roads split. Years after, during high school, Chihaya is once again stuck with karuta and has one dream: to create a karuta team and aim for the Omi Jingu Championship. Chihayafuru and Fune wo Amu share an unusual theme, the dictionary-making and the game of karuta. Both these shows are oriented toward a mature audience, and the story develops slowly but surely. The main protagonist, Chihaya, is hardworking and focused on her goal, exactly like Majime in Fune wo Amu. Step by step, the relationships among all the characters develop and evolve, in a very realistic way. Even the atmosphere these two shows share is the same; they are both relaxing, but at the same time able to make you stick on the screen craving to know if our protagonists will manage to realize their goals. If you still haven't watched it, and right now you're loving Fune wo Amu, it's time for you to catch up.

Stressed by his parents, tired of trying to live up to their expectations, Yuugo Hachiken decides to enroll the Ooezo Agricultural High School in the Hokkaido countryside. Confident, and certain that he could make it, reality crashes onto him the moment he meets his new classmates. In fact, all of them are people who have been living in farms way longer than him, so they’re talented at everything, from waking up early to dealing with all kind of animals. That's how Yuugo's struggles start, and his journey will lead him to know himself better and find his path and, eventually, love as well. These two shows share the realistic taste we mentioned before. Both the main protagonists, Yuugo and Majime, are thrown into a world they aren't used to. Still, with determination and devotion they manage to blend very well in the new setting. These two shows are slice of life anime that stick to reality, even though in Gin no Saji the comedic moments are far more. Both these shows' pace is slow, and yet they never bore the viewers. We can see in both how the main characters struggles to adapt and, eventually, to change, and grow up. Once again, if you are enjoying the non-conventional Fune wo Amu, whose themes are realistic, with Gin no Saji you'll find the same nice vibes and good atmosphere.

Starting off the list, we have K-On! For those who have already seen this anime, you’d know exactly why this anime made it onto the list. Aside from its moe-like style that seemed to appeal a large number of fans, the character development in this anime is also something note-worthy. It starts off with the life of the average, carefree, air-headed, Hirasawa Yui, who, despite having no experience whatsoever in terms of musical talents, decides to join her school’s band. Initially, the only motivation for her to join the Light Music Club was because she thought that light music meant "easy music". After some initial tries, Yui actually develops a talent for it, albeit needing some more work. With the help of her bandmates, Mio, Tsumugi, Azusa, and Yui will learn to overcome her struggles in music as well as her school. Don’t miss out on this moe anime and be sure to enjoy the songs in it because they’re quite decent!

Uta no☆Prince-sama♪! is next on the list! This anime did a great job in terms of their animation style, as it contained extravagant colors. And just like Show by Rock!! the protagonist is a girl who is trying to make it through the world of music. Not only that, she is practically swarmed by hot-looking guys in her academy. As you can already tell by the character casting, that this anime ultimately leaned towards the Shoujo genre. It all started with a girl named Haruka Nanami, who longed to be the composer for her famous idol. To be able to achieve that, she decides to enroll at the prestigious Saotome Academy of performing arts. There, she will meet a bunch of good-looking guys such as Kurusu Shou, Jinguuji Ren, Shinomiya Natsuki, Ittoki Otoya, and much more! You can already guess the love storm that is going to brew between Haruka and the other boys at her academy!

Judging from the title alone, you’d probably already have some idea of what this anime is going to be like. If you’re thinking a bunch of high school girls becoming idols, then you’re right! Much like how the characters in Show by Rock!! saves the town from monsters, the characters in this anime struggles to save their own beloved school! So if you’re into the musical anime with a touch of slice-of-life, then this anime will be perfect for you! With the plummeting popularity of her beloved school of Otonokizaka High School, Kousaka Honoka struggles to brainstorm any ideas that could help save the school from shutting down. Thanks to the school’s un-strategic location of being located at the border of three major cities, it starts to lose popularity and face risks of getting shut down. It’s up to Kousaka Honoka and her friends’ idea of creating a school idol to regain popularity, will they be able to save their school?

If you like music and some rom-com on the side, then this next anime will definitely appeal to you! It’s basically ‘love is in the air’ with this anime, with the random quirky pianist named Nodame who fell in love with a perfectionist conductor, Chiaki Shinichi who live next door to her apartment. You will see the quirky side of Nodame be somewhat similar to the main protagonist of Show by Rock!!. As they might be quirky and weird, but nevertheless, they do appeal in that way. Even though initially Chiaki was forced into playing the piano together with Nodame by his instructor, Chiaki soon realized that the more she played there was something special about the quirky girl. As Chiaki tries to mold Nodame into a special pianist, her feelings for him grew. But will Chiaki ever feel the same towards Nodame? Stay tuned to Nodame Cantabile for a hearty laugh!

Moving on the list, we have the Pretty Rhythm franchise. This anime might be popular amongst the girl’s community. Just like the previous anime on the list, it features a group of girls who undergo great character development to become dazzling and stunning idols! Of course, with the added touch of magic, this anime becomes quite a sight for sore eyes! The plot centers on Naru Ayase, a girl gifted with the ability to see the colors of music when listening to them. She dreams to become the manager of a trendy fashion store like Dear Crown. And as fate would have it, she becomes interested and immediately applied for it when a newly opened fashion store opened and was recruiting middle school girl to be the store manager. But when she was performing at the final evaluation, a whole new world of music emerged before her eyes. Join Naru as she journeys to discover more about the world of Prism Stones!

Now as we all know that Show by Rock!! is an anime that features the protagonist that utilizes her musical abilities to defeat evil monsters. This unique plot can also be seen in Macross Delta, although the character cast and animation style very much differ from Show by Rock!!, but nonetheless, it became something unique in itself. With a futuristic mecha vibe, Macross Delta delivers an anime like no other. It perfectly blends some of the musical aspects into an action suspense anime, which is a rare combination of genre. It might seem weird at first, but once you go through a few early episodes then you’d get sucked into the plot. When the Earth is under threat and the human race was brought to the brink of extinction due to the Var Syndrome, a viral virus that spread like wildfire, turning people violent, that’s when Walkure, a tactical sound unit was established. Armed with their voices, they sing beautiful dazzling melodies to protect humans and save the Earth.

Part of the training in Keijo!!!!!!!! is knowing the sport and learning strategies to it, which brings us to the many WTF moments in Keijo!!!!!!!! Ep. 6. As Kazane, Nozomi, Sayaka and Toyoguchi learn about special moves (with their hysterical names) performed in Keijo. While on a training retreat to sharpen the girls’ skills, a pile of lumber suddenly falls towards the girls due to Toyoguchi tripping on the rope that was holding the lumber together, threatening their lives. New character Shirayuki, from a stationary position, flies right into the air, butt first, and, at super speed, breaks apart the lumber to a safe area. The name of this outrageous move is “Surface-to-Surface Butt Missile”. My favorite moment is when we learn the names to some new moves in the series. Keijo!!!!!!!! is definitely a series full of fanservice, to the point that the creators came up with a new sport to cash in on it. From now on, I eagerly await the next episode to learn the newest and craziest name they come up with. I mean, I’m sure we all haven’t and will never forget Fujisaki’s Cerb-chan, right?! Right?! Lol

Calamity Mary is out for blood now that Magicaloid44 has been killed. She will undertake a mission from Fav personally after it tells her who has killed Magicaloid44. Calamity Mary gets her revenge against Hardgore Alice again, and again, and again. Gunshots, dismemberment, acid, a grenade, stabbing, heck, even an oil drum filled with cement, is not enough to stop Hardgore Alice. You see, the problem is is that Hardgore Alice cannot die! Even if you kill her, she will always regenerate. This poses a real threat for the other magical girls who do not know about her power yet, and could really change the entire hunt as we all know it. Her appearance is especially crucial after Fav revealed last week that this is just a game for someone else. That brings us back to Snow White too. What will she do?

This episode is all about Yuri trying to seduce Victor with his Eros as he goes up against the other skaters in the China short program cup - and boy, I think he managed to seduce everyone watching this anime along the way. After the subtle but telling touch of Victor’s hand on Yuri’s, Yuri quickly takes the initiative and entwines their fingers, before pushing their foreheads together. This moment speaks volumes about their relationship, the thin line they’re treading, and how important skinship is to them. As Yuri goes on to pull off a perfect performance of Eros, “Love wins,” cheer the commentators. And it really does. This instant shows just how important Victor is to Yuri, as well as how much Victor has changed Yuri for the better - and if you think I spent this entire scene screaming, you’d be right.

In episode 6, we get to see more of what Chinatsu is all about. Despite luring a child into making a contract as a Selector after hearing the girl’s story about wanting to bring back her deceased mother, Chinatsu continues on as if she has the most problems in the world. Like, oh my gosh, your dad was the one whose business went bankrupt; why is it your job to take care of everything? You chose to do the part time work to pay for college! Chinatsu takes all of this burden onto herself and then blames Suzuko for the heavy expectations. It’s freaking annoying. I thought her story was going to be much more emotional, but this reminds me a lot of antagonistic anime characters who are given terrible backstories just so they can be the antagonist. GIVE IT SOME THOUGHT!

In this week’s episode of Okusama, Ui-chan becomes more responsible around the house, leaving Izumi-kun clueless as to her new attitude. Starting with Ui making breakfast for Izumi while wearing an apron for the first time, to the food actually tasting good, even though it looked a bit iffy, and now realizing that Mizumi-chan recently moved next to them in order to spy on them. The moment I cherished the most was the opening scene. Ui is so excited to wake up Izumi, that in her attempts, she decides to sneak in a cutesy “Wake Up...Darling”, the outcome of which has her giggling like a little school girl (because she is) and loving the fact that she feels grown up and is in love with Izumi. Her actions and innocence are what made the moment the best for me, this week. Lol

Well well well, we get finally have been given the plot device that is going to move the plot forward! After Gamon and everyone else remains strangely calm about the fact that they are dead, Asuna Kisaki is introduced as having the power of psychometry. Through it, she can see the memories of items including bodies. We already know that there is an experiment being carried out having to do with the existence of a soul that is what caused the 256 people to die. It seemed that was where the show is going to be caught in a rut. However, now with Asuna’s power, Occultic;Nine finally takes that turn into wtf-ville as she, and us too, try to figure out what is going on and why memories are being erased, thus hindering her investigation! It’s refreshing, it’s good, and you better believe that I will be watching next week to see when the organization steps in again.

Well. We didn’t plan on talking about the same show two times in a row, but wow. When a moment like this comes along, how can you not rave about it? This anime has been breaking barriers since the beginning and here we are with a canon kiss scene followed by a look of absolute adoration in the afterglow - all in public. What makes this so breathtaking? Well, this isn’t a BL anime - Yuri!!! on ICE isn’t just about Victor and Yuri’s relationship, there’s no “oh no but we’re both boys!!” BL trope - they’re just two guys in love trying to do their best for each other and themselves. It sounds so simple, but in the anime world, this is a big deal for so many reasons and there may or may not have been tears. Many, many tears.

To Be Hero is so hilarious that they included a magical girl transformation by plugging in an alien lifeform into Yamada. It was so hilarious watching him ask for it and then his transformation into a girl! Best guy to girl anime transformation ever! I can’t even believe that the guys were into she-Yamada! How did he get so pretty? And she/he even made friends with that alien that went up her/his butt. Friendship is great, isn’t it? Just goes to show you that anime is flipping weird and anything can happen! I cannot wait to see the next weird stuff! Is she-Yamada going to stay?!

Jinkou is finally getting a real game! After their endless practices and what seems like Gion just sitting on the sidelines forever, they get a real game with their coach calling out the club advisor for being useless. The game begins and the opponents are being vicious and messing with the players. Poor Iwashimizu is the bearer of the burnt of their attacks after he is recognized by the other team’s members. One by one, they launch petty attacks against him, but he stays strong until he kicks and the ball goes out of bounds. At this point he actually breaks. Iwashimizu loses it and snaps at the whole team forcing the coach to pull him out of the game and swap in another player! It seems as if the fire has finally been lit under the butts of Jinkou’s rugby team, but I wonder how it will all actually play out. ALL OUT has been great as a sports anime for not being a generic one. I am certainly glued to my screen for what happens next.

Coming up to the end of this ten-episode season, things are more intense than ever in Haikyuu!!. Karasuno is in a pinch, with Shiratorizawa having just scored a match point. With everything hanging in the balance, every single moment is packed full of tension - one wrong move and this is the end of the line for Karasuno. That’s when Tsukishima suddenly returns, back from the infirmary. He’s been such a key player this season, seeing him jog towards the court with that determined look on his face was like a ray of hope. I may or may not have screamed with joy. Either way, with Tsukki back in the game and just two episodes left, I can’t wait to see how the climax of this season of Haikyuu!! plays out.

Watamote really excels compared to Hatsukoi Monster when it comes to making fun of shoujo tropes. In episode 8, Nanashima is so obsessed with Serinuma that he even sees Serinuma in his delusions, resulting in his basic assaulting of Serinuma. This is such a cliche when it comes to shoujo anime and manga. Someone is always forcing themselves onto the main character! It even happens in Hatsukoi Monster. However, what’s weird in Watashi ga Motete Dousunda is that fact that this moment gets really serious in comparison to other scenes in the anime that mock shoujo tropes. Like, my gosh, I understand the severity of having someone forced upon you, but why include the trope if it gets too serious to mock? Although, they did try to relieve it with a weird power rangers like scene.

This bloody anime is coming to an end, and this ninth episode had Calamity Mary's final destination, Sister Nana's suicide (after Winter Prison's death) and the unexpected death of Top Speed. And although every fan of the series sure remains in shock with each death so far, watching this happy witch stabbed in the back was a hard blow, especially when we confirmed the theory that many had: she needed to live "only six months more" to see her child born. If someone still believed this was a "cute" anime, certainly last week’s episode made it clear that anything could happen. Even killing a pregnant teenager... off guard and stabbed in the back. As if that were not enough, the rules of the game have changed again. How will this macabre game end?

Set in a parallel world, Baka to Test, aka The idiot and the test, is centered around Akihisa Yoshii who, for all intents and purposes, is an idiot. No really, he is the lowest of the low currently placed in class F. At the school, students are ranked on academic ability and placed in classes based on their scores and ability. Class A is home to the geniuses of the academy, while those in Class F are at the bottom of the intelligence and ability scale. Students in Class A have amenities such as air conditioning and extremely comfortable classrooms while Class F has old desks and broken or breaking furniture. What is the ability part for? Well, the school is currently rolling out a system that allows students to summon magical beasts. What happens next? Fed up with the mistreatment that they have to endure, Class F starts a war on the school to take Class A for themselves! It starts with the vibe and overall feel of the anime that makes a bridge between the two series. The humor is there and is used well to make the user laugh while presenting a false-future that could spell the end for some. Much like Mumei, Akihisa also has a partner who is more intelligent than he is. Both Akihisa and Mumei are rebelling against a system that has done them wrong. While Mumei is more cunning with it, Akihisa takes the direct route to success. The other major similarity here is that both are essentially at the bottom at the beginning of the series, and have to work their way up. Akihisa has to play by the rules, though, while Mumei does not.

Saitama is your everyday superhero. He trains, he is super strong, and he’s bald? Saitama lost his hair due to his training regimen that started three years ago. Since then, he has been a success… Kinda. He meets Genos by chance one day who witnesses Saitama’s one punch knockout. Moved by what he has seen, Genos asks Saitama to take him in and teach him his ways. They both try out to become heroes with the Heroes Association of the city where Genos actually outranks him! Saitama does not let that get him down though. Why? Because one punch is all he needs to win. One by one foes will rise up against Saitama. Much like Saitama, Mumei is kinda easy going. The only thing he focuses on is passing the test and getting the answer sheet from Koui to copy. Saitama too in the same way is a bit single-minded and not focused on a lot of other things. There is also the blatant humor that exists between the main character and everything and everyone around him. He does not pay attention too much and essentially that does translate into humor. How could we forget too, that much like Saitama who does not show out and roll out that knockout punch right in the beginning, Mumei does not either? Plus, they always manage to pull it off and win in the end. One Punch Man may not be set in a school, but the underlying similarities are there.

Chulan goes home to his hometown one day to visit his grandfather’s grave. However, that is not all as when he arrives, there is some strange girl carrying a knife and digging his grandfather’s grave up? Suddenly zombies appear out of nowhere and it’s time to book it! This mysterious girl cuts down a few zombies and leaves it up to Chulan. The next day, the mysterious girl introduces herself as Baobao and is in his classes back at university!? What is going on? She says that foes are going to be rising up against him and that he needs to stand against them because they want his power. Here goes Chulan! Can he survive? Much like with Cheating Craft, Hitori no Shita actually takes a tried and true concept that we all know as anime fans, and actually, makes it into something new. Now, whether or not it is because these shows are both from Chinese novels/manga or not, is anyone’s guess. Regardless, it is quite enjoyable nonetheless. Both Chulan and Mumei are obsessed with the girl closest to them, even if Chulan does not realize it in the beginning. Also, does it even need to be said? Chulan and Mumei are both OP. Mumei may be working his way up through the ranks, but he is still never caught and pulls through no matter how difficult the trial. Hero’s Journey anyone?

Ryuuko Matoi one day decides that she needs to get revenge for her father who was killed. By coming into contact with Senketsu, a sentient uniform, Ryuuko suddenly gains the power to fight back against the superpowered students of Honnouji Academy. Taking one half of her father’s invention, the Scissor Blade, she sets out to conquer the school, since it seems that the student council president, Satsuki Kiryuuin, may have some information for Ryuuko. Dark secrets and even darker events await Ryuuko in the academy as she struggles against the system to fight back against the elite four. Can she handle it? Jump in a uniform and find out! Much like with Mumei in Cheating Craft, Ryuuko is searching for answers about her father. Both of their fathers have been subjected to something that they did not deserve, and so they have to figure out how to start from scratch and win. The humor is also the same where it is very stupid sometimes. It does not hurt to mention that Ryuuko and Mumei can also be a little dense at times. They too also share the quality of not knowing when to give up and pushing themselves to the wire. They also have bizarre action scenes that show them being creative at the very least. While Cheating Craft is more school oriented and Kill la Kill is action, a lot of the underlying themes are similar.

You Satou was innocently shopping one day after school for some marked down bentou when he was knocked unconscious. When he woke up, there was nothing but full-price food left behind. You quickly learns that he is on a serious battlefield. To the victor go the half-priced bentou. To win, one must become a “wolf” and train to take down other wolves and “dogs” which is what he was on day one when he was kicked aside. He must train under the Ice Queen, Sen Yarizui, to become a bentou-eating wolf, or starve. What awaits him next in this battleground of the supermarket!? Right off the bat, the stupid humor is very prevalent between Ben-to and Cheating Craft. One of the best scenes is where You jumps out a window to save a Sega Dreamcast system while reciting poetry. Mumei does the same with the idiot sharks who try to distract the students from their exams when they are at sea. The dialed-up seriousness of it as well is quite funny. You have students who go from throwing fists one second to talking calmly the next in Ben-to, while in Cheating Craft, you have C-types going all out to try and get the answers for their exams. There is also the parts of each respective series where the unexpected location, the classroom, and the supermarket, become deadly battlegrounds that determine your future!

We hope you like stupid humor! This one is for you. Two fallen angels, Panty and Stocking are known for being mean, rude, and all around disgusting! They currently now run around Daten city vanquishing ghosts. Why? Well, they get Heaven coins when they do this. IF they can collect enough, there is a chance that once again, they can see the pearly gates. The problem? Panty is a nymphomaniac, Stocking is obsessed with Candy, and Garterbelt, their partner, has a very… odd… fetish. SOMEHOW, if they can manage to beat off their worldly afflictions, then maybe, just maybe, they will have a shot at getting back into heaven. However, they gotta clean up their act first. Panty & Stocking is crude. The show specializes in crude humor and the same is true with the ever thirsty Mumei. He is constantly preening after Haku after helping her one time when she was accused of cheating. There are also moments that contribute to the more… ecchi, side of things such as the beach scene where the students have to take the test in open water where the sharks destroy their clothes. Also, like it or not, Mumei is not the main character that you warm up too immediately, just like Panty and Stocking. While they are the heroes of the story, they are slightly off-putting and individuals that grow on you. Another thing about these two series is that while a central plot is introduced, it is quickly forgotten as the show becomes episodic. Not necessarily bad, but this might not cater to all.

In this week’s episode of Ajin Part 2, Satou-san moves on to his final stage of his revolution. With tensions high, you figured the Anti-AS would stop Satou-san. That is clearly not the case. The moment I want to showcase isn’t when Satou-san's secret weapon is revealed, nor is it actually, physically, seeing his eyes open due to his extreme thrill for fighting. No, no. It’s when we find out that Satou-san can control his IBM while unconscious! Just when you thought Satou-san was defeated, he pulls this huge trick from his sleeves and takes out everyone in the room with their pants down! Jaw-dropping, literally! I can only image what will come next but it has to be crazy! Satou-san is BOSS!

This is the moment we have been waiting for since we saw the fall of the main city that the Drifters and Elves had taken over. Drifters has consistently delivered good, balanced material and you are never Now they have set their sights on the fortress/prison of Gadolka. Toyohisa’s brilliant planning along with Olmine allows them to take it all down. What is great about this episode is we are treated to action and violence, and then the Elves put aside their hate for Dwarves and cook them a meal after liberating them. Ironically we have this tender, human moment right after Toyohisa beheads the capitan. To say that this is new for the creator is not, as he did have some tender moments in Hellsing Ultimate, but it is still kickass to see that there are still human beings with honor left in the world. Sometimes anime mirrors reality, however this is not one of those times.

A lot has changed this week in Fune wo Amu. Well actually, not so much has changed at first glance. Majime is still working on the Daitokai, Sasaki is still there too. In fact, it’s only once you see the silver of Majime’s wedding band that you realise that wait a minute, those two only just confessed their feelings for each other but, actually, the characters do have a couple of extra lines under their eyes… Then we learn that it’s been thirteen years since the last episode. Went by in a flash, right? But seriously, I don’t care how boring the last thirteen years may have been, being confused for half an episode and then realising you’ve just experienced a timeskip of over a decade is a little jarring. I’m happy for Majime and I’m happy about the direction this anime is going in - but boy was I confused for a while there.

This particular scene where Yayaka and Cocona are fighting felt very powerful to me. Yayaka is fighting for a place in life, but she also battles her inner feelings of fear being replaced as Cocona’s best friend by Papika. In this scene alone, Yayaka and Cocona are fighting in a prism-like prison where their memories are reflected on each surface. In her desire to fight for a place to belong, Yayaka symbolically shatters the happy memories that she and Cocona share. I really appreciate this scene due to all of the symbolism in it. I wasn’t really sure how I felt about Flip Flappers as a whole, but with the complex story line behind Yayaka, I feel even more engaged, especially when her relationship with Cocona seems to be so complicated by Yayaka’s mission and real feelings. Have to say, guess I’ll be watching until the end!

Many WIXOSS followers were anticipating this new approach to the franchise, but until now, it only appeared as a distant spin-off that could not completely satisfy them. We had to get nine episodes before we could finally find out what is really going on here, not only with the relationship between the characters and the mysterious card game, but with the true connection between this anime and the previous ones. Mayu, Kiyoi and Piruluk are three names that now make more sense to the story. We finally know that these new rules and game system have an explanation, and revenge is just one of the ways Lostorage Incited WIXOSS is a continuation. It looks like we'll have a better ending than we expected... and by the way, seeing what happened to Kiyoi and Hanna, is it really worth "winning" anymore?