Before diving into the list of dramas similar to Diriliş: Ertuğrul, let’s take a quick look at this groundbreaking series. Diriliş: Ertuğrul is a Turkish historical drama inspired by real events, with dramatic storytelling that makes it even more captivating. Set in the 13th century, it follows the life of Ertuğrul Bey, father of Osman I, the founder of the Ottoman Empire. This series has garnered immense popularity, particularly in Islamic countries, and is often compared to Game of Thrones for its blend of action, intrigue, and drama.
The story begins when Suleyman Shah sends Ertuğrul and his companions to find a safe haven for their nomadic tribe. During one of his hunts, Ertuğrul rescues a family in danger and brings them back to his clan, unaware of their true identities. Their arrival stirs trouble, as enemies from the Seljuk Empire and the Knights Templar begin to close in. As the narrative unfolds, the challenges faced by Ertuğrul and his tribe grow increasingly intense, making it a must-watch for fans of historical dramas.
If you’ve already finished all four seasons of this series and are eager for more shows with similar themes, here’s a list of 10+ dramas like Diriliş: Ertuğrul.
10. Into the Badlands
IMDb Rating: 8/10
Genres: Action, Adventure, Fiction, Drama, Wuxia
Language: English
Into the Badlands is an American action-adventure series set in a post-apocalyptic world. The show follows Sunny, a highly skilled warrior who serves as the “Head Clipper” for Baron Quinn. While rescuing a young boy, M.K., Sunny discovers that the boy harbors a mysterious power tied to a legendary city called Azra. As Sunny seeks to uncover the secrets of this city and his own past, the show delves into themes of loyalty, survival, and rebellion. With its rich storytelling and martial arts choreography, this series is a great choice for fans of Diriliş: Ertuğrul.
9. Rome
IMDb Rating: 8/10
Genres: Action, Drama, History, War
Language: English
Rome is a historical drama that explores the transition of Ancient Rome from Republic to Empire. The series intertwines the lives of key historical figures such as Julius Caesar, Augustus, and Mark Antony with fictionalized characters like soldiers Lucius Vorenus and Titus Pullo. Spanning the civil wars, Caesar’s assassination, and the rise of Augustus, the show captivates with its compelling characters and dramatic historical events.
8. The Pit (Çukur)
IMDb Rating: 7.3/10
Genres: Action, Crime, Thriller
Language: Turkish
This ongoing Turkish series centers on a powerful crime family, the Koçovas, who rule over a dangerous neighborhood in Istanbul called Çukur. When a rival gang threatens their control, Yamaç, the youngest son of the family, returns to defend his people. Having left behind his old life and a new marriage, Yamaç’s journey back to Çukur is filled with gripping action and drama.
7. Filinta
IMDb Rating: 6.7/10
Genres: Historical, Detective Fiction
Language: Turkish
For fans of detective stories with a historical twist, Filinta is a Turkish series set in 19th-century Istanbul. It follows Filinta Mustafa, a young police officer falsely accused of a crime he didn’t commit. As Mustafa works to clear his name and unravel a dangerous conspiracy, the series blends fictional storytelling with key historical events from the Ottoman Empire.
6. Kingdom
IMDb Rating: 8.4/10
Genres: Historical Drama, Thriller, Political Drama, Horror
Language: Korean
Set during Korea’s Joseon period, Kingdom is a unique blend of historical drama and supernatural horror. The series begins with Crown Prince Lee Chang investigating a mysterious plague that turns people into zombie-like monsters. As political conspiracies unravel alongside the spread of the disease, the series delivers both suspense and impactful storytelling.
5. Warrior
IMDb Rating: 8.2/10
Genres: Action, Drama, Martial Arts
Language: English, Cantonese
Based on an original concept by Bruce Lee, Warrior is set during the Tong Wars in 1870s San Francisco. It follows Ah Sahm, a martial arts prodigy who immigrates to America in search of his sister. The series explores themes of identity, prejudice, and resilience, all while showcasing stunning action sequences.
4. Payitaht: Abdülhamid
IMDb Rating: 5/10
Genres: Action, Drama, History
Language: Turkish
Payitaht: Abdülhamid chronicles the reign of Sultan Abdulhamid II, the 34th ruler of the Ottoman Empire. The series highlights key historical events, including the Sultan’s successful implementation of the Hijaz Railway project. With its rich historical context, the drama is both educational and entertaining.
3. Spartacus
IMDb Rating: 8.5/10
Genres: Action, Adventure, Historical Drama
Language: English
Spartacus tells the tale of a Thracian warrior-turned-gladiator who rises up against the Roman Republic. Through intense battles and heartfelt storytelling, the series portrays Spartacus as a symbol of resistance against oppression.
2. Vikings
IMDb Rating: 8.5/10
Genres: Action, Adventure, Drama, Historical
Language: English
Vikings is a historical drama inspired by Norse sagas, particularly those of Ragnar Lothbrok, a legendary Viking hero. The series chronicles Ragnar’s rise from a farmer to a king, as well as the adventures of his descendants. With its rich storytelling and exploration of Norse culture, Vikings is a perfect watch for fans of historical epics.
1. Kuruluş: Osman
IMDb Rating: 7.8/10
Genres: History, Action, Drama
Language: Turkish
As a sequel to Diriliş: Ertuğrul, Kuruluş: Osman continues the story of the Ottoman Empire’s founding. The series focuses on Osman I, showcasing his struggles to establish a powerful and independent state while battling enemies and forging alliances. This gripping drama builds on the legacy of its predecessor and is a must-watch for fans of the genre.
For fans of historical dramas, these series offer thrilling narratives, well-developed characters, and rich cultural contexts. Whether you’re drawn to tales of warriors, empires, or political intrigue, this list has something for everyone!
Dev King is a passionate fan of manga, manhwa, and webtoons, with a love for Korean, Japanese, and Chinese cartoons. Always exploring new worlds and stories, he finds joy in every unique style and plot twist.