8 2010s Anime That Rival Re:Zero

Released in the 2010s, Re:Zero quickly became one of the most popular and successful isekai anime. The series continues to be a major force in the genre, captivating fans with the exciting but challenging adventures of Subaru Natsuki in a different world. New episodes, covering Season 4, are scheduled to air in spring 2026.

While many fans love Re:Zero, several anime from the 2010s are just as good, or even better. Whether it’s a story about being transported to another world, a fantasy adventure, or a classic shonen series, these shows have what it takes to stand up to Re:Zero and potentially surpass it.

8. Overlord

Release Date: July 7, 2015

Similar to the popular anime Re:Zero, Overlord is a very successful isekai series with a large and dedicated following. It’s remained popular for a long time, resulting in four full seasons of anime, plus extra episodes, OVAs, and even movies. Plus, it’s animated by the well-respected studio Madhouse, so the animation quality is excellent.

First appearing in 2015, Overlord centers around Ainz Ooal Gown, an incredibly powerful character who wants to govern a new fantasy world with the help of his devoted followers. Though the basic idea might not sound special, the series thoughtfully examines ideas about power, what’s right and wrong, and what happens when someone has unlimited control.

7. That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime

Release Date: October 2, 2018

Released in 2018, the popular isekai anime That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime (often called TenSura) remains a hit, similar to Re:Zero. While some criticize it for having slow-paced episodes focused on conversations, the series continues to draw in new fans, proving it offers something truly captivating.

That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime (TenSura) is famous for its detailed and imaginative world, which many fans consider better than other popular isekai series from the 2010s, like Re:Zero. The story, guided by the incredibly strong protagonist Rimuru Tempest, focuses on building a nation, handling diplomacy, and bringing different races together – a refreshing change from typical action-packed isekai plots.

6. The Rising of the Shield Hero

Release Date: January 2, 2019

Many fans of isekai stories enjoy watching a previously weak and mistreated protagonist become incredibly powerful, surpassing those who wronged them – like the people who banished them from their home or group. This is the story of Naofumi Iwatani, who rises to become a truly reliable hero in a new world by mastering his unique skills.

Like the anime Re:Zero, Shield Hero centers around a main character who refuses to be defeated, even when things get incredibly difficult. As long as Naofumi lives, he keeps moving forward, no matter how harsh the world treats him.

5. Made in Abyss

Release Date: July 7, 2017

Initially, Made in Abyss appears to be a lighthearted anime about three young characters embarking on an incredible journey. The animation style is colorful and inviting, creating the impression of a sweet and innocent world.

Although some portrayals of Made in Abyss are accurate, the series contains a deeply disturbing undercurrent that can be quite shocking. While viewers of Re:Zero might be familiar with violent content, Made in Abyss often goes even further, combining gruesome imagery with an unexpectedly adorable art style.

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4. The Promised Neverland

Release Date: January 10, 2019

The first episode of The Promised Neverland is still considered one of the most shocking in anime history. It quickly goes from showing the happy, carefree lives of children at an orphanage to revealing a terrible truth and a heartbreaking death. This sudden change in tone completely redefined the series in just a matter of moments.

Fans of the intense surprises in Re:Zero will likely enjoy The Promised Neverland as well. It’s not only a thrilling story, but it also delivers mind-bending psychological twists that are comparable to those in Re:Zero.

3. Tokyo Ghoul

Release Date: July 4, 2014

If Ken Kaneki from Tokyo Ghoul and Subaru Natsuki were to meet, they’d probably become fast friends because they’ve both gone through a lot of hardship and never give up. Kaneki lives in a brutal world and struggles with a difficult existence – he’s been turned into a ghoul who has to eat human flesh, while still trying to hold onto his human side.

Although Tokyo Ghoul isn’t a typical ‘transported to another world’ anime like Re:Zero, it tells a compelling and dark story. It centers around a protagonist you’ll likely sympathize with – someone who just wants a peaceful life, love, and to remain human in a very harsh world.

2. Log Horizon

Release Date: October 5, 2013

Shiroe, the main character of Log Horizon, is very different from Subaru Natsuki in Re:Zero. While Subaru often acts on impulse and gets swept up in his feelings, Shiroe is usually calm, thoughtful, and solves problems with logic, even when things get dangerous.

Similar to Re:Zero, Log Horizon is a fantastic isekai anime. It features a well-developed world with intricate systems, a smart and thoughtful main character, and a large, engaging cast that adds depth to the story.

1. Parasyte

Release Date: October 9, 2014

Produced by Madhouse, Parasyte is a standout anime from the 2010s. With a memorable opening theme and a fascinating story about Shinichi Izumi and the alien parasite that bonds with him, it’s a gripping blend of horror and psychological drama that asks big questions about humanity.

Though it only has 24 episodes, Parasyte effectively tells Shinichi Izumi’s story. His growth as a character is truly remarkable – he starts as a typical high schooler and becomes a stronger, more mature person because of the difficult experiences he faces.

2026-05-06 15:36