There are often times when we dream of living in a fantasy world filled with magic, strange creatures, adventure, and stunning landscapes. However, we tend to forget that such a world wouldn’t fundamentally change human nature. Both good and bad would still exist, and perhaps even be magnified. Goblin Slayer is an anime that delves into the dark side of fantasy, presenting an intense and raw look at violence, bloodshed, and the harsh realities of a world filled with danger.
This anime is based on a Japanese manga of the same name, written by Kumo Kagyu and illustrated by Noboru Kannatuki. Due to its popularity, it was adapted by White Fox and premiered in 2020. In a world where people join guilds to hunt goblins for fame and fortune, a 15-year-old priestess embarks on her first adventure to investigate a goblin group responsible for the disappearance of local villagers. But things quickly spiral out of control when her team is ambushed, leaving her in a desperate situation.
Just as she is about to give up, she is saved by the infamous Silver-ranked Goblin Slayer. Choosing to join him on his quest to annihilate goblins, she becomes part of a diverse team, including an elf, a dwarf, a lizard-man, and an armored warrior. With a second season recently announced but no premiere date set, the wait can be difficult. To tide you over, here’s a list of anime series similar to Goblin Slayer to satisfy your craving for dark fantasy.
1. Berserk
Berserk is a landmark dark fantasy anime that stands out for its mature themes and psychological depth. It centers around Guts, a lone mercenary wielding a massive sword, whose life is marked by relentless battles and immense suffering. The narrative delves into the human psyche, exploring the impacts of trauma and the quest for vengeance. After being betrayed by his former friend Griffith, who sacrifices Guts’ comrades for power, Guts embarks on a brutal journey of revenge. The anime is known for its graphic violence, complex character relationships, and existential themes, making it a profound exploration of darkness much like Goblin Slayer. The brutal realities of the world and the struggle for survival resonate deeply, offering a similarly intense atmosphere.
2. Akame ga Kill
Set in a dystopian empire rife with corruption and cruelty, Akame ga Kill follows Tatsumi, a naive villager who becomes embroiled in the fight against tyranny after joining the Night Raid, a group of skilled assassins. Each member of Night Raid has unique abilities and tragic backstories, contributing to the show’s rich character development. The series explores moral ambiguity, with the heroes committing acts of violence to achieve a noble cause. The brutal confrontations and the harsh lessons Tatsumi learns about the world reflect the themes of trauma and loss found in Goblin Slayer, where idealism often clashes with brutal reality.
3. Claymore
In the dark world of Claymore, humanity is threatened by monstrous creatures known as Yoma, which prey on humans. To combat this threat, the organization creates hybrids called Claymores, half-human and half-Yoma warriors. The story focuses on Clare, a Claymore seeking revenge for her tragic past, and her companion Raki. The series is imbued with themes of vengeance, sacrifice, and the struggle for identity, paralleling the relentless battles and the emotional weight carried by characters in Goblin Slayer. With its intense action and horror elements, Claymore appeals to fans who appreciate the darker aspects of fantasy storytelling.
4. Skeleton Knight in Another World
Skeleton Knight in Another World takes a unique twist on the isekai genre by featuring Arc, a gamer who finds himself transported into a fantasy world as a skeleton knight. While the premise may seem lighthearted, it retains dark themes as Arc grapples with his identity and the moral implications of his actions. He battles various evil forces while uncovering the depth of his character and the struggles of those around him. The blend of humor and darker themes resonates with fans of Goblin Slayer, providing a lighter narrative while still exploring serious subjects.
5. Made in Abyss
Made in Abyss combines adventure and dark fantasy, following Riko, a young girl who descends into a treacherous abyss to find her mother. The abyss is filled with bizarre creatures and harrowing challenges, serving as a backdrop for Riko’s journey. Although it features a cute art style, the series dives into themes of despair, loss, and the consequences of ambition, echoing the emotional depth found in Goblin Slayer. The juxtaposition of innocence against the grim realities of the abyss creates a captivating narrative that will resonate with viewers drawn to darker tales.
6. Fairy Tail
Fairy Tail offers a more uplifting tone compared to Goblin Slayer, focusing on themes of friendship, loyalty, and teamwork within a magical guild. The story follows Natsu Dragneel and his friends as they face various monsters and challenges, fostering personal growth and camaraderie. While it lacks the dark elements of Goblin Slayer, the adventurous spirit and battles against evil forces can still appeal to fans looking for lighter fantasy with strong character bonds. The power of friendship is a central theme, contrasting with the more isolated struggle of characters in Goblin Slayer.
7. Overlord
In Overlord, Satoru Suzuki finds himself trapped in a game as his character, the powerful Ainz Ooal Gown, a lich with overwhelming abilities. The series explores themes of morality, power dynamics, and the complexities of leadership in a fantasy realm filled with monsters and magical beings. Unlike Goblin Slayer, where the focus is on survival and revenge, Overlord emphasizes strategic world-building and the moral dilemmas faced by Ainz as he interacts with the inhabitants of his new world. The darker undertones and the exploration of villainy in a fantasy setting provide a rich narrative for fans seeking depth and complexity in their stories.
8. Redo of a Healer
Redo of a Healer explores themes of trauma and revenge within a dark fantasy setting. The story follows Keyaru, a healing magician who has endured horrific torture at the hands of those he was meant to help. After discovering the true potential of healers as one of the strongest classes, Keyaru rewinds time four years to before his suffering began. Empowered by his knowledge and newfound strength, he sets out on a quest for vengeance against those who wronged him. Similar to Goblin Slayer, this anime features a ragtag team of companions, each with their own unique traits, and an overarching theme of revenge driving the narrative. The juxtaposition of its graphic violence with moments of levity and charming character designs creates a complex atmosphere that challenges viewers to confront the darker aspects of fantasy.
9. Drifters
Drifters is a high-octane dark fantasy anime that follows Shimazu Toyohisa, a samurai who finds himself transported to a fantastical world filled with magic and legendary heroes. Here, he joins other historical figures known as Drifters in a battle against the Ends, a group threatening their existence. The series is marked by intense action sequences, brutal combat, and a rich tapestry of characters from different eras, similar to the diverse group dynamics in Goblin Slayer. The combination of historical references and fantastical elements provides a thrilling narrative that explores the themes of war, camaraderie, and survival in a chaotic world.
10. Grimgar of Fantasy and Ash
Grimgar of Fantasy and Ash offers a poignant and realistic take on the isekai genre, focusing on a group of individuals who suddenly find themselves in a dangerous fantasy realm dominated by goblins. The series emphasizes the psychological impact of their situation, portraying characters grappling with loss and the harsh realities of survival. The protagonist, Haruhiro, assumes a leadership role after the death of their former leader, highlighting themes of growth and responsibility. The anime’s exploration of trauma and the struggle for revenge against the goblins creates a relatable and engaging narrative that mirrors the tone of Goblin Slayer, appealing to viewers who appreciate character-driven stories amidst violence and adversity.
11. Sword Art Online
Sword Art Online is a landmark anime that immerses players in a virtual reality MMORPG where they must clear levels to escape. Protagonist Kazuto Kirigaya, known as Kirito, quickly learns that death in the game translates to real-life death, forcing him to navigate the game’s challenges while forming bonds with fellow players. The series features rich world-building, thrilling action sequences, and character development, much like Goblin Slayer. Although Sword Art Online has a broader narrative scope, its focus on survival, teamwork, and facing dire consequences resonates with fans of darker, fantasy-themed narratives.
12. Tales of Zestiria the Cross
In Tales of Zestiria the Cross, the story follows Sorey, a kind-hearted young man who strives to bridge the gap between humans and the divine beings known as Seraphim. After drawing a legendary sword from a stone, Sorey becomes the Shepherd, tasked with ridding the world of malevolent forces. The anime is characterized by its stunning animation and a fast-paced narrative that emphasizes adventure and personal growth. While it may be less dark than Goblin Slayer, its focus on battling evil and protecting the innocent shares thematic similarities, making it a captivating watch for fans of action fantasy.
13. Demon Slayer
Demon Slayer combines dark fantasy elements with a historical backdrop, telling the story of Tanjiro Kamado, whose life is upended when he discovers his family has been slaughtered by demons and his sister has been turned into one. Driven by a desire to restore his sister’s humanity and avenge his family, Tanjiro trains to become a demon slayer. The series is notable for its emotional depth, particularly the themes of familial love and resilience in the face of tragedy. The beautifully crafted animation and intense action sequences create a compelling narrative that resonates with fans of darker stories, akin to the grim struggles in Goblin Slayer.
14. Orient
Orient is set in a world overrun by demons, where being a samurai is both a privilege and a burden. The story follows childhood friends Mushashi and Kojirou, who aspire to become great samurai to fight against the demon oppressors. As they confront the harsh realities of their world, they embark on a journey filled with action and adventure. The anime’s fast-paced storytelling and dark fantasy elements parallel the themes found in Goblin Slayer, making it an appealing choice for fans who enjoy narratives featuring heroes battling against overwhelming evil in a desperate struggle for freedom.
15. Yuki Yuna is a Hero
Yuki Yuna is a Hero presents a visually appealing, lighthearted exterior that contrasts sharply with its darker narrative themes, similar to Goblin Slayer. The story follows Yuuna Yuki and her friends, who are members of the Hero Club. They are suddenly thrust into a fantasy world where they must battle malevolent forces threatening their home. As the narrative unfolds, the girls discover the grim truths behind their roles as heroes and the heavy responsibilities tied to their powers. This series cleverly blends the whimsical elements typical of magical girl stories with profound themes of sacrifice, duty, and the cost of heroism, making it a compelling choice for fans looking for a deeper, more nuanced exploration within a seemingly innocent genre.
16. Land of Lustrous
Land of Lustrous is a visually stunning dark fantasy set in a post-apocalyptic world where humanity has been wiped out, leaving behind crystal-based beings known as Lustrous. These beings are engaged in a battle against the Lunarians, who capture Lustrous for their beauty. The story centers on Phos, a young gem who longs for purpose and is tasked with documenting the history of their kind. Throughout her journey, she encounters Cinnabar, a lonely gem struggling with her own identity. The anime explores themes of identity, purpose, and the struggles inherent in existence, presenting a rich narrative filled with emotional depth and philosophical reflections. Fans of dark adventure fantasy who appreciate intricate world-building and character exploration will find Land of Lustrous to be a compelling watch, paralleling the intense experiences found in Goblin Slayer.
17. Rise of the Shield Hero
The Rising of the Shield Hero follows Naofumi Iwatani, an ordinary young man who is summoned to a parallel world as one of four legendary heroes. Despite being assigned the shield—often perceived as the weakest weapon—Naofumi faces betrayal from those he trusted, leading him to confront societal discrimination and isolation. Determined to prove his worth, he embarks on a journey of self-improvement and growth. The series shares the darker aspects of fantasy found in Goblin Slayer, emphasizing themes of resilience, trust, and personal development in the face of overwhelming odds. As Naofumi gathers companions and faces various threats, the narrative delves into the complexities of power dynamics and the struggle against injustice, resonating with viewers who appreciate character-driven stories rooted in a dark fantasy setting.
18. Guilty Crown
Set in a dystopian, post-apocalyptic Japan, Guilty Crown intertwines themes of oppression and rebellion within a sci-fi framework. Following a virus outbreak that leads to a government takeover by the GHQ, ordinary high school student Shu Ouma discovers he possesses the unique ability to extract weapons called Voids from others. This power draws him into a conflict against the oppressive regime and reveals the darker sides of authority and power. The series features complex characters and high-stakes drama, much like Goblin Slayer, exploring the consequences of power and the moral dilemmas faced by individuals in desperate circumstances. Its blend of action, political intrigue, and psychological depth offers an engaging experience for fans seeking darker narratives.
19. Re: Zero – Starting Life in Another World
Re: Zero – Starting Life in Another World is a psychological fantasy that follows Subaru Natsuki, an ordinary teenager who finds himself transported to a fantastical realm. However, he quickly discovers that he has a unique ability: upon death, he can return to a specific point in time, allowing him to alter events. This cycle of death and resurrection forces Subaru to confront the harsh and often brutal realities of his new life, as he faces numerous threats and tragedies. The series shares thematic elements of violence, despair, and horror with Goblin Slayer, showcasing the psychological toll of repeated failures and the weight of responsibility. Re: Zero masterfully balances moments of levity with intense emotional depth, creating a compelling narrative that captivates viewers drawn to dark fantasy themes.
20. Granblue Fantasy
Granblue Fantasy immerses viewers in a vibrant fantasy world filled with floating islands and diverse characters. The story follows Gran, a young swordsman, and his talking lizard companion Vyrn, as they team up with Lyria, an escapee from a tyrannical empire. Together, they embark on an adventurous journey that combines action, humor, and romance. While Granblue Fantasy is lighter in tone compared to Goblin Slayer, it still presents themes of adventure, friendship, and personal growth. The series showcases character development and camaraderie, appealing to those who appreciate the balance between lighthearted moments and thrilling escapades, making it a delightful addition to the list for fans seeking a mix of adventure and deeper storytelling.
These 20 anime series share dark fantasy elements, adventure, and themes of violence similar to Goblin Slayer. Have you watched any of these titles? Let us know which ones you enjoyed the most in the comments below!
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.
