Vinland Saga has been all the rage among anime enthusiasts. Its captivating portrayal of Vikings and their era is an exhilarating mix of history, adventure, and drama. So if you’ve found yourself hooked to this Wit Studio masterpiece and are waiting (rather impatiently) for season 3, here are some other anime recommendations that might satisfy your historical or fantasy cravings.
Samurai Champloo: Edo with a Twist
Samurai Champloo, directed by the genius Shinichiro Watanabe, is more than just another samurai anime. It’s a journey through Edo-era Japan with an unexpected hip-hop flair. Two wandering warriors, after being rescued from the clutches of death, embark on a mission to find the elusive “Samurai Who Smells of Sunflowers”. With stunning swordplay and a blend of old and new, this anime perfectly caters to fans of both history and modernity.
Claymore: Where Darkness Meets Fantasy
If you’ve ever been fascinated by stories of warriors battling monsters, Claymore is your next binge. This anime delves into the life of Clare, a formidable warrior among the Claymores, women entrusted with the task of vanquishing flesh-eating shapeshifters known as Yoma. However, there’s a catch: to defeat a Yoma, Claymores must partake in some of the monsters’ traits. It’s a dance between light and dark that’ll keep you at the edge of your seat.
Berserk: A Mercenary’s Tale
1997’s Berserk is the definition of dark fantasy. The anime follows Guts, a young mercenary finding his place amidst the wars plaguing his homeland. After impressing the charismatic Griffith, Guts joins the famed Band of the Falcon. Yet, as they rise in ranks, dark truths and even darker foes emerge, pushing Guts into a world of treachery and chaos.
Golden Kamuy: An Adventurous Treasure Hunt
Post the Russo-Japanese war, Sugimoto, celebrated as “Sugimoto the Immortal”, embarks on a treasure hunt in Japan’s Hokkaido island. Joined by the Ainu girl Asirpa, who has her own reasons for the treasure hunt, the duo encounters enemies, allies, and endless adventures.
Vinland Saga is getting season 3 pic.twitter.com/bLi0KB8CUR
— ZeroDS. (@zerods_) June 19, 2023
Castlevania: When Games Make Great Anime
Breaking the notion that video game adaptations aren’t that impressive, Castlevania is a game-changer. Trevor Belmont, a monster hunter, must rise against the legendary Dracula. Packed with action, intrigue, and a lot of vampire hunting, Castlevania is a delight for those who love dark, supernatural tales.
More Historic Delights: Demon Slayer, Chainsaw Man, and Dororo
- Demon Slayer: Set in the early 20th century Japan, Tanjiro Kamado seeks revenge against the demons that devastated his family. Engaging, emotional, and with beautifully animated action sequences, it’s a must-watch.
- Chainsaw Man: Modern, dark, and intense, Chainsaw Man follows Denji, a young devil hunter with a chainsaw-wielding canine friend. A blend of action, camaraderie, and dark undertones make this a unique watch.
- Dororo: In a tragic tale from the Warring States period, Hyakkimaru, robbed of his body parts by demons due to his father’s greed, embarks on a journey to reclaim his body, one demon at a time.
A Taste of the Future: Cyberpunk: Edgerunners and Drifters
- Cyberpunk: Edgerunners: Venturing into the futuristic world, this anime tells the tale of David, navigating through life in a cyberpunk society. Vibrant, detailed, and thrilling, it’s a refreshing break from the historical setting.
- Drifters: Shimazu Toyohisa, from the Warring States period, finds himself in a realm where historical warriors clash with supernatural beings. A mix of periods, battles, and fantasy, it’s a whirlwind of excitement.
