Dark Souls, the iconic video game series known for its unforgiving difficulty and immersive dark fantasy world. It has left a considerable impact on both gamers and entertainment industries. Recently, as the news about Dark Souls anime being adapted into an anime series broke out, anime viewers all around the world are anticipating its release. If you’re a fan of Dark Souls and crave more tales of adversity, struggle, and exploration of darkness, then these top 10 anime like Dark Souls’ list are tailor-made for you.
Top 10 Anime Like Dark Souls
1) Berserk (1997)
- IMDB Rating: 8.7/10
- Release Date: October 8, 1997
- Genre: Action, Adventure, Fantasy, Horror, Drama
- Streaming Platforms: Crunchyroll, Funimation, and Netflix
Berserk follows the journey of Guts, a lone mercenary wielding a massive sword. As he navigates a world filled with darkness and demons, he faces many betrayals from his people. The anime beautifully captures the essence of struggle and sacrifice of Guts, as he fights to survive in a treacherous and chaotic medieval world. With its mature themes and emotionally charged storytelling, Berserk remains a cult-classic among anime enthusiasts.
2) Made in Abyss
- IMDB Rating: 8.4/10
- Release Date: July 7, 2017
- Genre: Animation, Adventure, Drama, Dark Fantasy, Mystery, Sci-Fi
- Streaming Platforms: Amazon Prime Video, HIDIVE and Crunchyroll
Made in Abyss revolves around the Abyss, a massive and mysterious chasm filled with valuable relics and deadly creatures. Riko, an optimistic young girl, and Reg, a humanoid robot, venture into the Abyss to find Riko’s missing mother. The anime blends wonder and adventure with grim undertones, creating a captivating narrative.
3) Attack on Titan
- IMDB Rating: 8.2/10
- Release Date: April 7, 2013
- Genre: Action, Drama, Fantasy, Mystery, Thriller
- Streaming Platforms: Crunchyroll, Hulu, and Netflix
Attack on Titan takes place in a walled city besieged by giant humanoid creatures known as Titans. Eren Yeager, along with his friends Mikasa and Armin, joins the military to fight against the Titans. He is determined to uncover the truth behind their existence. The anime explores themes of survival, betrayal, and the human will to fight against overwhelming odds.
4) Hellsing Ultimate
- IMDB Rating: 8.2/10
- Release Date: February 10, 2006
- Genre: Action, Horror, Dark Fantasy, Vampire
- Streaming Platforms: Crunchyroll, Hulu, and Netflix
Hellsing Ultimate revolves around a world where the Hellsing Organization is led by the enigmatic Integra Hellsing. She defends England from all kinds of supernatural threats, including vampires. Alucard, a powerful and immortal vampire, serves as the organization’s most formidable weapon. The anime features high-octane action and gothic aesthetics
5) Claymore
- IMDB Rating: 8/10
- Release Date: April 3, 2007
- Genre: Action, Adventure, Fantasy
- Streaming Platforms: Crunchyroll, Hulu, and Netflix
Claymore introduces us to a world plagued by monstrous beings known as Yoma. To combat these creatures, an organization creates half-human, half-Yoma warriors called Claymores. The series follows Clare, a Claymore seeking revenge against powerful Yoma. During his battles, he faces the harsh reality of her existence. The anime explores the themes of identity, morality, and the cost of power.
6) Dorohedoro
- IMDB Rating: 8.1/10
- Release Date: January 13, 2020
- Genre: Animation, Action, Adventure, Comedy, Fantasy, Horror
- Streaming Platforms: Netflix
Dorohedoro presents a unique world where sorcerers and humans coexist in a chaotic and surreal city known as the Hole. Caiman, a man with a reptile head, seeks to regain his lost memories and uncover the truth behind his transformation. This anime stands out for its dark humor, bizarre creatures, and engaging story.
7) Ninja Scroll
I haven't enjoyed anime for years, but as a teen my favorites were Akira (of course), Ninja Scrolls, Bubblegum Crisis, and Vampire Hunter D. Haven't seen 'em in ages, but feel like I did run across Scrolls steaming somewhere recently. I'll try to dig.
— TractorDrivingSOB (@TractorDrivnSOB) July 21, 2023
- IMDB Rating: 7.8/10
- Release Date: June 5, 1993
- Genre: Animation, Action, Adventure, Fantasy, Thriller
- Streaming Platforms: Amazon Prime Video and Crunchyroll
Ninja Scroll follows Jubei Kibagami, a wandering swordsman, as he becomes entangled in a web of deceit and conspiracy. With his remarkable combat skills, Jubei battles against powerful foes while navigating a dark and treacherous feudal Japan. The anime is renowned for its action sequences and stylish animation.
8) Sword of the Stranger
- IMDB Rating: 7.8/10
- Release Date: September 29, 2007
- Genre: Animation, Action, Adventure, Drama, History
- Streaming Platforms: Funimation and Crunchyroll
Set in feudal Japan, Sword of the Stranger revolves around Kotaro, a young boy pursued by Ming forces seeking his mysterious immortality. Kotaro befriends a nameless ronin who reluctantly agrees to protect him. This anime delivers breathtaking sword fights and explores the bond between the two protagonists.
9) Goblin Slayer
- IMDB Rating: 7.5/10
- Release Date: October 7, 2018
- Genre: Action, Adventure, Fantasy
- Streaming Platforms: Crunchyroll, Funimation
Goblin Slayer centers on a stoic adventurer known only as Goblin Slayer, whose sole mission is to exterminate goblins. The anime juxtaposes moments of camaraderie and humor with brutal and relentless goblin-slaying action. This makes it a thrilling watch for fans of dark fantasy.
10) Vampire Hunter D
- IMDB Rating: 7/10
- Release Date: December 21, 1985
- Genre: Animation, Action, Fantasy, Horror, Sci-Fi, Thriller
- Streaming Platforms: Amazon Prime Video
Vampire Hunter D is set in a post-apocalyptic world where the vampire noble, Count Magnus Lee, kidnaps a young woman, Doris Lang. She seeks the help of D, a dhampir (half-human, half-vampire), to rescue her. The anime weaves a tale of gothic horror, heroism, and redemption.
Conclusion
If you’re an avid fan of Dark Souls game and its themes of unyielding determination and perilous adventures, these top 10 anime like Dark souls’ recommendations will undoubtedly satisfy your craving. Each of these anime series masterfully captures the essence of struggle, be it against mythical creatures