After witnessing the tremendous success of Demon Slayer, the anime industry is taking notes on how to craft a winning adaptation, and Jujutsu Kaisen (JJK) stands as a shining example. As an avid anime enthusiast, I must express my utmost admiration for the JJK staff, who have delivered a feast for the eyes.
So here are some older anime that have similar style to Sorcery Fight (Jujutsu Kaisen) that you might be interested in watching.
Demon Slayer: : Kimetsu no Yaiba
I have watched and heard of almost every anime out there. However, none have moved or awed me as much as Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba.
From the very first episode, watching Kimetsu no Yaiba has been an incredibly emotional journey. The flawless animation, beautiful music, and magnificent storytelling elevate it to the top.
Let’s talk about the animation. It’s absolutely fantastic. With advancements in technology, we’ve seen many visually stunning anime over the years. But this anime surpasses them with its unique animation style, highlighting movement and blending different angles and perspectives.
The combination of bright, comic book-like effects and subtle, soft landscapes is stylistically brilliant and a joy to watch.
Now, let’s discuss the audio effects. In most anime, music complements the animation. Excellent song-writing and iconic theme songs are prevalent.
However, what sets this anime apart is how the audio pairs with the animation. The use of sound is perfect and inseparable from the visuals. It adds an extra layer of immersion and enhances the overall experience.
Lastly, the storytelling. While the core story about family, love, and perseverance may not be entirely fresh, it’s the execution that makes it incredibly compelling. Without giving away any spoilers, the writer has done an exceptional job.
The character development and storytelling exceed expectations. With each episode, I find myself more impressed and delighted. Episode 19, in particular, was a revelation and an unforgettable experience.
Having watched countless anime, I’m rarely surprised by story developments. However, this anime’s creative storytelling keeps me on the edge of my seat. What truly stands out is how it makes you feel about the characters.
The audience’s emotions mirror those of the protagonist, Tanjiro. As new characters are introduced and their backgrounds revealed, our bond with them deepens. Their behavior and motivations start to make sense, endearing them to us.
Tanjiro, as the main character, is easy to root for due to his clear purpose and empathetic nature. The writer skillfully maintains a logical and cohesive storyline while evoking different perspectives and emotions. This level of storytelling is truly exceptional.
If you want to experience the very best of Japanese animation, look no further than Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba. You won’t regret it.
Noragami
I’ve seen my fair share of series and shows that seemed uncertain about their direction, but Noragami is a shining example of a series that flawlessly executes all its elements without missing a beat.
Let’s address the caveats first. If you’re expecting eye candy, Noragami might not meet your expectations. The animation, while commendable in terms of art and character design, falls slightly above average when it comes to action sequences. However, the clever use of framing and the incorporation of 3D animation help compensate for this and make the fights more engaging.
Fortunately, these minor flaws are overshadowed by the numerous great aspects that Noragami brings to the table. One of its strengths lies in the diverse and well-developed cast of characters. Each character feels fleshed-out and multi-dimensional, with no one solely serving as fanservice or comic relief.
The main character, Yato, is a standout with his bratty and teenage-like demeanor, yet he remains incredibly enjoyable to watch. His views on humans and life, while sometimes irritating, are also fascinating due to his experiences and his transformation from a vicious war god to a more docile version.
Hiyori, the average high school girl who gets caught up in the world of gods and spirits, serves as a relatable window into the hidden reality depicted in the series. While she starts off as a typical female protagonist, she displays determination and initiative when faced with challenging situations. Yukine, Yato’s weapon and a sarcastic fourteen-year-old, undergoes significant character development throughout the series, which is incredibly satisfying to witness.
The supporting cast is equally compelling, each with their own stories and unique traits. The chemistry between the characters adds depth and variety to the show. However, I must mention that the late-introduced arch-nemesis from Yato’s past and Hiyori’s portrayal as a damseled character in the final episodes are minor drawbacks.
In terms of animation, Noragami delivers with its typical Bones-style art and character designs. The scenery is well-done and detailed, and the fight scenes, while relatively sparse, showcase the animation’s true potential. There are occasional dips in quality, but overall, it pleases the eye.
The soundtrack, composed by Taku Iwasaki, is a standout feature. The light-hearted music sets the mood perfectly and never feels out of place. The battle music, in particular, adds intensity and excitement to the scenes. The voice acting is superb, with casting choices like Kamiya Hiroshi as Yato and Yuki Kaji as Yukine being spot-on. The performances elevate the characters and bring them to life.
Overall, my enjoyment of Noragami was high. While it is not perfect, it kept me engaged and invested in its story and characters. I had a great time watching the series and grew attached to it. Noragami holds a special place in my heart as one of the greatest anime of the Winter 2014 season.
Hunter x Hunter (2011)
Hunter x Hunter 2011 is an amazing show that stands out from the crowd. It blends elements of shounen and seinen genres in a unique way, creating a one-of-a-kind experience.
At first glance, it may seem like a show for kids, with its colorful and cartoonish art style, but there’s so much more to it. Beneath the surface, it delves into deep themes like the meaning of humanity and the pursuit of a fulfilling life. It’s a dark and thought-provoking series that leaves a lasting impression.
The storytelling in Hunter x Hunter is top-notch, thanks to the masterful work of the creator, Togashi. The story unfolds seamlessly, with excellent pacing, lovable characters, and unexpected twists.
The main plot follows Gon, the protagonist, on his journey to become a “Hunter” in order to find his father, who left him when he was young. Along the way, he encounters various characters, faces challenges, and forms friendships and rivalries. Despite the straightforward premise, the narrative feels organic and comfortable. It serves as a guiding light during the show’s darker moments, offering a sense of moral clarity.
The show consists of seven story arcs, each with its own self-contained narrative. The arcs vary in length, but they never feel out of place. The pacing and narration are masterfully done, ensuring that the story always moves forward. There’s no filler content, and each episode presents relevant material. This focus on the journey rather than the destination is what makes the overall narrative so compelling.
In terms of art, the animation by Madhouse is consistently high-quality. While it may not always reach the pinnacle of visual excellence, it maintains a pleasing level throughout. Major fight sequences are particularly well-animated, but there’s a slight disappointment when it comes to hand-to-hand combat choreography, which could have been improved. Nevertheless, this minor flaw doesn’t overshadow the overall quality of the art.
The sound design in the show is also consistently good. The music sets the right mood, although personal preferences may vary. Notably, the effective use of silence in certain scenes enhances their impact. Unlike many shows that constantly have background music playing, Hunter x Hunter understands the value of silence, creating a distinct atmosphere.
The characters in Hunter x Hunter are the heart of the show. They are well-developed, likable, and relatable. Togashi excels at crafting characters with understandable motivations, allowing us to connect with them on a personal level. The moral compass in the show is subjective, with few characters falling into clear-cut “good vs evil” categories. Instead, we encounter a diverse range of moral perspectives and motivations. Heroes and villains are replaced by protagonists and antagonists, both working towards their own justifiable goals.
Ultimately, watching Hunter x Hunter is an incredibly enjoyable experience. It’s a masterpiece of storytelling, with exceptional moments and a rich emotional journey packed into its 148 episodes. Togashi and Madhouse have created one of the greatest stories of all time, transcending the boundaries of anime and television. I highly recommend it to anyone seeking a memorable narrative.
Chainsaw Man
I must say that Chainsaw Man has left a lasting impression on me. It is almost a perfect Shounen anime, and I can confidently say that there are no major deal-breakers in the series.
Before I shower praise on Chainsaw Man, let’s address some of its caveats. If you’re looking for eye candy, you might be disappointed. While the designs and cinematography are commendable, the action animation itself falls slightly above average, especially in a post Demon Slayer world. However, the clever use of framing and the incorporation of 3D animation help mask the limitations and make the fights more engaging.
That being said, these minor flaws pale in comparison to the numerous great aspects that Chainsaw Man brings to the table. The fights still work remarkably well due to the show’s amazing tone and atmosphere, crafted by the script and cinematography. The generous use of silence and occasional awkward dialogue actually adds to the unsettling and eerie tone, which intensifies when the fights break out. Each fight carries genuine terror and high stakes, which is a refreshing element in today’s Shounen anime landscape.
To balance out the dark setting, Chainsaw Man introduces Power and Denji, two apathetic and somewhat foolish characters. Denji, especially, would be unworkable as the protagonist in any other environment. However, within the context of Chainsaw Man, their presence juxtaposes the seriousness and hopelessness of the situations our characters face.
Their interactions diffuse tension, inject humor, and sometimes play crucial roles in advancing the plot. Denji’s character is impeccably designed to fit into the overarching story. He’s not just a hero with a magical weapon; his unique qualities and perspective are essential to the narrative.
Another appealing aspect of Chainsaw Man lies in its self-awareness of anime and manga subculture humor. This understanding adds an extra layer of enjoyment for anime fans, while outsiders might find it cringe-worthy.
The cast of characters in Chainsaw Man, though not extensive, has excellent chemistry. Denji and Power play off each other brilliantly, while Aki serves as the straight man to contain their foolishness. Makima remains enigmatic, with her true nature and motivations shrouded in mystery. This intentional lack of depth for some characters is part of the storytelling approach.
Lastly, I must mention the exceptional opening and ending themes. “Kick Back” is an absolute banger, and each ending sequence is gorgeously drawn, even if some of the music doesn’t personally resonate with me.
I highly recommend giving it a chance and judging it for yourself.
Boku no Hero Academia
My Hero Academia follows the journey of Izuku Midoriya, a dreamer who aspires to become a hero like his idol, the Symbol of Peace, All Might. In a world where supernatural powers called Quirks have become the norm, Izuku’s lack of a Quirk makes him feel neglected by society.
However, when he receives the opportunity to attend U.A. Academy, a prestigious school for heroes, he begins to develop his own skills and face challenges that test his determination.
While My Hero Academia initially starts with a slow pace and a somewhat underwhelming premise, it picks up momentum as the series progresses. The story explores the complexities of morality and perspective, highlighting the blurred lines between good and evil. It introduces a rivalry between Izuku and his childhood friend-turned-enemy, Katsuki Bakugo, and delves into their contrasting personalities and motivations.
The characters in My Hero Academia are well-developed and engaging. Izuku is portrayed as a timid yet cheerful boy who faces constant ridicule for being Quirkless. His determination to become a hero is fueled by his admiration for All Might. Katsuki, on the other hand, is depicted as proud and having a superiority complex due to his powerful Quirk. All Might serves as an enigmatic figure who leaves a lasting impact on both Izuku and the viewers.
Visually, Studio Bones excels in bringing Horikoshi Kosei’s character designs to life. The animation is fluid and dynamic, capturing the essence of the action-packed battles. The voice acting performances, particularly by Yamashita Daiki as Izuku and Okamoto Nobuhiko as Katsuki, effectively convey the characters’ personalities and emotions. The opening theme song, “The Day” by Porno Graffitti, and the ending theme, “HEROES” by Brian the Sun, complement the show’s energetic atmosphere.
My Hero Academia caters to fans of the shounen genre with its tactical fights, unique characters, and ridiculous powers. While it may divide opinions due to its familiar premise, it delivers an enjoyable experience and sets the stage for future seasons. Overall, it demonstrates its potential to be a good series and leaves viewers eagerly anticipating what comes next.
Bleach
Bleach, a beloved and highly debated anime, has secured its place as one of the most popular series in the anime world. Often compared to Naruto, this show has garnered both love and hate, becoming a must-watch for virtually anyone delving into the anime realm.
The story of Bleach is set in a unique universe. Soul Reapers, also known as Shinigami, maintain a special society tasked with overseeing souls in the living world. Each Shinigami wields a Zanpakuto, a unique sword with its own name and abilities based on the wielder’s personality and style. Accompanying them are the Hollows, along with two subgroups known as the Vaizard and Arrancar.
It is this rich and distinctive setting that allows Bleach to introduce a multitude of characters in different environments, marking one of the show’s strongest points. While the overall plot may not be particularly groundbreaking, centering around the common theme of rescuing a friend and becoming stronger, the series compensates with unexpected twists and turns. Themes of friendship, perseverance, and even a touch of romance add depth to the narrative. These positive elements, combined with an engaging setting, earned Bleach an overall rating of 8/10.
The vast cast of characters in Bleach is another aspect. While some characters receive better development than others, their uniqueness and admirable qualities make the anime truly enthralling.
Each character’s ability to unleash their Zanpakuto or utilize their Bankai adds excitement to the battles, leaving viewers eager to witness their capabilities. Notably, protagonist Ichigo’s growth from a powerful fighter to realizing his own limitations and striving for improvement is a highlight of character development. While personal growth mainly revolves around strength rather than personality, the largely unique cast still garners a commendable rating of 8/10.
One of Bleach’s standout qualities lies in its impressive sound design. The soundtracks elevate the intensity of battles, making even the smallest actions appear cool. Whether it’s the action-packed sequences or the poignant and suspenseful moments, the soundtrack breathes life into the series, perfectly complemented by exceptional opening and closing songs. These musical accompaniments set the mood beautifully and capture the essence of the story, earning a solid 10/10.
Regarding art and animation, Bleach maintains a high standard throughout. The art is visually appealing, with early arcs featuring vibrant colors and great visual effects. The fights are smoothly animated, incorporating various scenes and angles to enhance the action.
Also worth watching in my opinion.
Parasyte: The Maxim
Parasyte: The Maxim, based on the award-winning manga by Hitoshi Iwaaki, brings its intense and thrilling story to life in this highly acclaimed anime produced by Madhouse studio.
The series is set in a realistic world where unknown organisms invade Earth, taking over human bodies. By chance, one of these organisms attempts to enter the body of a sleeping boy named Shinichi Izumi but can only take control of his right hand. This strange incident creates a unique creature that resides within Shinichi’s hand.
Meanwhile, other organisms that successfully assimilate human or animal bodies begin secretly attacking and consuming civilians. Determined to protect others, Shinichi joins forces with the parasite inhabiting his hand, known as Migi, to fight against these ruthless invaders.
The story of Parasyte showcases notable strengths. Its unique and successful setting sets it apart, offering a glimpse of originality. Although the story itself is not overly complex, its concept is easy to understand and remember. The individual story elements are executed well, providing thrilling and exciting moments.
The anime maintains a balanced pace, combining surprises and excitement effectively. Additionally, Parasyte incorporates various genres, including romance. While some romantic scenes may feel awkward due to a lack of proper development, they contribute to the overall narrative.
One of the notable aspects of Parasyte is its portrayal of the true nature of living creatures, particularly humans. It imparts valuable moral lessons, emphasizing the importance of respecting and valuing all forms of life.
The animation in Parasyte is generally standard, neither exceptional nor subpar. The character designs are decent, but the design of the parasites is particularly praiseworthy, effectively conveying a sense of grimness and fear on-screen.
In terms of sound, the opening song “Let Me Hear” by Fear & Loathing in Las Vegas is an enjoyable and energetic piece, blending electric and rock elements. The background music seamlessly complements the story, enhancing the overall experience. The voice acting is commendable as well.
The main characters of Parasyte consist of the duo formed by Shinichi Izumi and the parasite residing in his right hand, Migi. The character development primarily revolves around Shinichi, who undergoes various changes in both his attitude and appearance throughout the series. He transforms from a timid and fearful boy into a mature and dependable man, exemplifying strong character growth.
Migi, the parasite within Shinichi’s hand, plays a significant role and establishes a sense of friendship as the story progresses. The villains in the series also fulfill their roles well, each driven by different motives. The supporting characters effectively contribute to the story, showcasing solid performances.
Overall, Parasyte: The Maxim is an exceptional series that I highly recommended. It is particularly appealing to fans seeking a captivating storyline, intense action, well-developed characters, and an overall thrilling experience.
If you liked our recommendations, be sure to check out:
