20 samurai animes like Demon slayer
Samurai are among the most iconic figures in Japanese culture, especially within anime, where their swordplay and adherence to codes of honor (or lack thereof) are often highlighted. Today, we’re diving into 20 action-packed samurai anime like demon slayer that truly showcase these legendary warriors. From historical epics to supernatural showdowns, these titles are sure to captivate you with their intense action and compelling stories. Let's get started!
20 samurai animes like Demon slayer
No.
Anime
1
Katsugeki/Touken Ranbu (2017)
2
Angolmois: Record of Mongol Invasion (2018)
3
Brave 10 (2012)
4
Mushibugyo (2013)
5
OniHei (2017)
6
Shigurui (2007)
7
Hakuoki (2010)
8
Blade of the Immortal (2019)
9
Samurai 7 (2004)
10
Ninja Scroll (1993)
11
Sengoku Basara (2009)
12
Basilisk (2005)
13
Drifters (2016)
14
Afro Samurai (2007)
15
Samurai Champloo (2004)
16
Hell’s Paradise (2023)
17
Sword of the Stranger (2007)
18
Dororo (2020)
19
Yasuke(2021).
20
Rurouni kenshin: Meiji Kenkaku Romantan (2023)
1. Katsugeki/Touken Ranbu (2017)
Kicking off our list is Katsugeki/Touken Ranbu, a captivating entry in the Touken Ranbu franchise. While it may not be as well-known as other anime, this 2017 production from Ufotable delivers stunning action and great swordplay. Set in a world where swords are brought to life, the show blends traditional samurai aesthetics with a modern artistic flair. It’s best suited for fans already familiar with the franchise, but it still offers a lot for newcomers to appreciate.
2. Angolmois: Record of Mongol Invasion (2018)
Next up is Angolmois, a lesser-known gem set during the Mongol invasion of Japan in 1274. This historical fiction anime stands out for its gritty portrayal of war, diving deep into the harsh realities of battle. If you’re a fan of realistic war dramas like Vinland Saga, you’ll find Angolmois a compelling watch, even though it didn’t capture mainstream attention at the time of its airing.
3. Brave 10 (2012)
Brave 10 takes us back to the Sengoku period, featuring legendary warriors like Date Masamune and Hattori Hanzo. This anime follows a group of brave samurai as they navigate a war-torn land. With a mix of action and historical intrigue, Brave 10 is a niche but entertaining addition to the samurai genre.
4. Mushibugyo (2013)
In Mushibugyo, set during the Edo period, giant insects terrorize the land, and it’s up to the insect magistrates to deal with the infestation. The main character, Jin, is a fiery swordsman determined to restore his family’s honor. This underrated series combines historical samurai elements with fantasy, making for a unique and thrilling watch.
5. OniHei (2017)
On-Hai may not have been a marketing success, but it offers a unique blend of samurai action and episodic cop drama. Set in a world filled with samurai, On-Hai explores a rich tapestry of stories, proving that sometimes an unconventional approach can deliver a memorable experience.
6. Shigurui (2007)
If you’re looking for something intense and mature, Shigurui is worth checking out. This anime, set during the Edo period, showcases the brutal reality of samurai life. With its stunning visuals and dark themes, Shigurui is a sophisticated and artistic exploration of Japanese history, though it’s best enjoyed by those familiar with the era.
7. Hakuoki (2010)
Hakuoki combines samurai action with romance and supernatural elements. Focusing on the Shinsengumi, a legendary samurai group, this series is known for its beautiful art and emotional storytelling. While it’s primarily targeted at a female audience, its rich historical backdrop and strong characters make it enjoyable for a broad range of viewers.
8. Blade of the Immortal (2019)
Blade of the Immortal follows a cursed samurai who can’t die, seeking redemption for the hundred innocent lives he took. This anime stays true to the grim and violent nature of its manga source material, offering viewers breathtaking sword fights and a compelling tale of redemption.
9. Samurai 7 (2004)
Samurai 7 is a futuristic retelling of the classic Seven Samurai, blending samurai action with science fiction. The story of mechanized samurai battling for the survival of a village has all the action you’d expect, with a visual style that’s both distinctive and entertaining.
10. Ninja Scroll (1993)
A classic from the early '90s, Ninja Scroll delivers non-stop action, featuring samurai, ninjas, and supernatural elements. Though it’s a product of its time, with its gritty and violent fight scenes, Ninja Scroll remains an iconic film that’s perfect for fans of high-octane action.
11. Sengoku Basara (2009)
If you’re in the mood for a more over-the-top portrayal of the Sengoku period, Sengoku Basara delivers with epic battles and wild character designs. Based on the video game series, this anime plays fast and loose with historical accuracy, focusing instead on the power of its action sequences and the larger-than-life personalities of its warlords.
12. Basilisk (2005)
A bloody tale of forbidden love set against a backdrop of warring clans, Basilisk blends romance with intense action. The anime’s art and sound direction help emphasize its brutal, dramatic story, making it a memorable experience for those who enjoy mature, action-packed anime.
13. Drifters (2016)
In Drifters, historical figures are transported to a fantasy world to fight for survival. This dark fantasy action series is fast-paced and full of adrenaline, with plenty of violence and larger-than-life characters. Fans of Hellsing and Attack on Titan will appreciate the high-stakes action and unique premise.
14. Afro Samurai (2007)
Afro Samurai is a short but explosive series that’s perfect for fans of intense action. With just five episodes, it delivers a stylish and gory story of revenge. Its unique visual style and Hollywood-level dub cast make it stand out from other samurai-themed anime.
15. Samurai Champloo (2004)
A cult classic, Samurai Champloo blends samurai action with hip-hop and street culture. Its unique style, memorable characters, and strong dynamic between the leads make it a must-watch for fans of action-packed anime with a bit of swagger.
16. Hell’s Paradise (2023)
Hell’s Paradise is a recent addition to the samurai genre, bringing with it stunning visuals and gripping action. The story follows a group of criminals on an island filled with dangers, mixing samurai combat with supernatural elements. With strong characters and a captivating world, Hell’s Paradise is a great adventure anime.
17. Sword of the Stranger (2007)
Sword of the Stranger is a masterpiece in the world of anime movies. This visually stunning film tells the story of a wandering swordsman who becomes entangled in a fight to protect a young boy. The film’s epic sword fights and emotional moments make it a modern classic that any samurai fan should experience.
18. Dororo (2020)
Dororo is a quirky, dark fantasy series that blends action, adventure, and samurai-like swordplay. Set in a dark and twisted world, it follows a duo on their journey through perilous lands, offering exciting battles and a story filled with mystery and intrigue.
19.Yasuke(2021)
A village in danger, a mysterious child, warring daimyo, and the greatest ronin never known all clash in a Japan of magic and mechs. Learn the story of the first African samurai.
20. Rurouni kenshin: Meiji Kenkaku Romantan (2023)
Ten years have passed since the end of Bakumatsu, an era of war that saw the uprising of citizens against the Tokugawa shogunate. The revolutionaries wanted to create a time of peace, and a thriving country free from oppression. The new age of Meiji has come, but peace has not yet been achieved. Swords are banned but people are still murdered in the streets. Orphans of war veterans are left with nowhere to go, while the government seems content to just line their pockets with money. One wandering samurai, Kenshin Himura, still works to make sure the values he fought for are worth the lives spent to bring about the new era. Once known as Hitokiri Battousai, he was feared as the most ruthless killer of all the revolutionaries. Now haunted by guilt, Kenshin has sworn never to kill again in atonement for the lives he took, and he may never know peace until killing is a thing of the past. Now in the 11th year of Meiji, Kenshin stumbles upon Kaoru Kamiya, owner and head instructor of a small dojo being threatened to close its doors. The police force is powerless to stop the string of murders done in the name of her dojo by a man claiming to be the famous Battousai. Kenshin's wanderings pause for now as he joins Kaoru to clear both their names. But how long can he stay before his past catches up to him?
Samurai anime offer a wide range of experiences, from historical dramas to fantasy-infused action. Whether you’re looking for something grounded in reality or an over-the-top adventure, there’s a samurai anime on this list for you. If you enjoyed this list, don’t forget to like and share—it really helps! Which samurai anime is your favorite? Let us know in the comments below!
Comments
Post a Comment