Must-Watch Anime for Squid Game Fans: Prepare for Thrills and Betrayal!

Summary

Squid Game is similar to Battle Royale, leading to a surge in similar films, games, and anime.
Fans of Squid Game can enjoy recommendations like Assassination Classroom, Kengan Ashura, and Tower of God.
Other recommendations for Squid Game fans include Alice In Borderland, Btooom!, and Kaiji: Ultimate Survivor.

Squid Game may not be an entirely original idea, but that doesn’t make it poor quality. Instead, it simply means that there are other entertaining options available for fans to explore. Essentially, Squid Game can be seen as a derivative of the popular “Battle Royale” concept, which was initially showcased in the film and manga series of the same name. It wasn’t until later that other media began emulating this series. Now, there is an abundance of films, games, and anime inspired by it to enjoy.

If you found the series “Squid Game” engaging, consider watching the original “Battle Royale” movie. It remains captivating even today. You might also enjoy the “Hunger Games” book series and films. For anime enthusiasts, there’s a wealth of excellent shows to explore. Some are direct continuations that Squid Game fans may find appealing, while others offer more abstract recommendations.

23. Tomodachi Game

Betrayal, Manipulation, and Survival

Five classmates – Yutori Kokorogi, Yuuichi Katagiri, Shiho Sawaragi, Makoto Shibe, and Tenji Mikasa – have a close friendship that’s been built over time through shared memories and support. However, when they are kidnapped and cut off from the world, they find themselves pitted against each other in a series of psychological challenges. Their bond is put to the ultimate test as they navigate these trials together.

The best of the best keeps the act up till the end.

The story in Tomodachi Game centers around these five companions, who grapple with the harsh truths of life while dealing with years of buried mistrust and unresolved disagreements. Similar to Squid Game, this series delves into the gloomy facets of human nature, prompting viewers to reflect deeply on the vulnerability of trust and the essence of camaraderie.

22. Platinum End

Tsugumi Ohba’s Underrated Work

Release Date: Oct 8, 2021
Genre(s): Drama, Supernatural, Suspense
Creator: Tsugumi Ohba
Studio: Signal.MD
MyAnimeList Score: 6.03

Since Mirai Kakehashi was young, his life has been overshadowed by despair and hopelessness. After tragically losing his family in an accident and being subjected to unfair treatment by relatives, he no longer finds any reason to carry on living. However, when he makes the decision to end his suffering forever, Mirai is unexpectedly rescued by an angel named Nasse. She grants him with two extraordinary abilities. Mirai discovers that, much like a handful of other individuals, he now possesses a rare chance in his lifetime to ascend to the position of God.

Eager not to miss the opportunity to transform his life, Mirai consents to face off against his fierce competitors, ready to do whatever it takes to emerge victorious. “Platinum End” is an intriguing anime that will captivate fans of “Squid Game”, offering a compelling mix of cutthroat competition and moral quandaries.

21. Talentless Nana

A Suspenseful Science Fiction Series

If you’re an anime enthusiast seeking a gripping series that leaves you on the brink of excitement, I’d strongly recommend giving Talentless Nana a watch. This show is set in a world where self-preservation and survival are paramount, and looks can be deceiving. Talentless Nana keeps audiences intrigued with its unforeseen plot twists that blend psychological suspense with moral ambiguity, making it an ideal choice for fans of Squid Game.

20. Classroom of the Elite

Pyschological School Drama

Shougo Kinugasa’s “Classroom of the Elite” centers around the pupils at Japan’s esteemed Koudo Ikusei Senior High School. Despite its idyllic reputation to outsiders, the school’s students are mercilessly categorized into four groups based on their academic abilities. The students in the top class, A, enjoy exclusive benefits and are highly regarded, whereas those in the lower classes face fewer advantages.

At Koudo Ikusei Senior High School, the educational system encourages constant competition among various classes and students, fostering a mercilessly competitive atmosphere where students are continually challenged. The popular anime series “Classroom of the Elite” captivates audiences with its intriguing mind games, compelling characters, and unexpected plot twists, making it a must-watch for suspense enthusiasts.

19. Assassination Classroom

Comedy Action Anime

I absolutely adore “Assassination Classroom”! At first glance, it might appear as just another common shonen anime. But once you delve deeper, it unveils its extraordinary charm, leaving viewers like me intrigued and captivated by its unique twists and turns!

This leads to an astonishing watch featuring one of the saddest endings among contemporary anime. The fate of our planet hangs in the balance within this series, significantly escalating the tension compared to that found in Squid Game.

18. Kengan Ashura

High-Octane Martial Arts Series

In simpler terms, Squid Game and Kengan Ashura both revolve around people competing against each other in dangerous situations, primarily for the amusement of wealthy spectators. The former is set in a contemporary context, while the latter draws parallels to ancient gladiator fights.

That guy died because he was weak. The weak die … Isn’t that just the way things are?

The show boasts thrilling action scenes and vividly illustrates how power and wealth can lead even the best to corruption. Notably, the protagonist, Tokita Ohma, is an intriguing figure who adds depth to the storyline.

17. Tower Of God

Dark Fantasy Anime

I’ve noticed that “Tower of God” stands out as one of the pioneering manhwas to secure an official animated adaptation, showcasing its immense popularity. This colossal, enigmatic structure is the tower in question, which adventurers must climb to access higher levels and encounter increasingly complex trials.

Regardless of your strength or training, it doesn’t matter. The truth is, you haven’t been selected. Please return to where you originally were. It seems that you lack the qualifications to ascend the tower.

The experience of climbing the tower is portrayed as if it’s a game, making it perfect for fans of “Squid Game”. Although “Tower of God” covers a lot of ground in some of its later instalments, the unique concept makes it an engaging watch from start to finish.

16. Alice In Borderland

An Anime About Playing Survival Games

Many individuals are familiar with “Alice in Borderland” primarily due to its recent second season premiering on Netflix as a live-action series. Yet, it’s worth noting that this popular show actually originated from a manga, which previously received an anime adaptation too!

The three OVAs of “Alice in Borderland” effectively convey the narrative, presenting a group of unfortunate individuals trapped within a treacherous game where danger lurks around every turn. This suspenseful series offers an engaging experience whether you’re viewing the animated version or its live-action counterpart.

15. Btooom!

Survial-Action Series

Release Date: Oct 4, 2012
Genre(s): Sci-fi, Action, Suspense
Studio: Madhouse
Creator: Junya Inoue

The concept of finding oneself trapped within a brutal video game is a terrifying prospect for numerous individuals. Consequently, Btooom! could be an intriguing viewing experience for enthusiasts of Squid Game, as multiple characters find themselves compelled into a sinister competition where their existence hangs precariously in the balance.

I found “Btooom!” to be quite ordinary, yet it handles its typical elements well. At times, the show manages to be rather inventive, creating entertaining scenes that keep viewers engaged, provided they can tolerate the abundant fanservice throughout the series.

14. Kaiji: Ultimate Survivor

Gambling, Suspense, and Action

If you’re a fan of the hit Korean series, Squid Game, I strongly recommend checking out Kaiji: Ultimate Survivor. Like Squid Game, this anime shares similar themes, motifs, and settings. While the format of the “killing game” in Kaiji is distinct, it’s equally captivating. What makes it engaging is watching characters strive desperately to avoid the consequences of losing in these high-stakes gambling games.

13. Gantz

One of the Best Science Fiction Anime

Gantz stands among the toughest and emotionally poignant anime productions available. This series fearlessly presents gruesome moments, all while tugging at the emotional strings of audiences who find themselves deeply connected to its compelling characters.

He prayed for her, and she prayed for him. One needs to pray, in a world without a god.

It’s strangely melancholic to see all the characters struggle for another chance at existence. However, as the narrative evolves within the show, the points earned by players wind up serving purposes entirely unrelated to the game itself.

12. Deadman Wonderland

An Anime That Keeps You Hooked to the End

One of the key strengths of Deadman Wonderland lies in its unique concept. The idea of a correctional facility serving as a bizarre amusement park is initially hard to believe, but Deadman Wonderland deserves praise for turning this seemingly absurd premise into one of the show’s most captivating aspects.

In this series, the contests and matches are incredibly captivating right up until the final moments. If you’re a fan of “Squid Game,” I guarantee you’ll find plenty of entertainment in “Deadman Wonderland.

11. Darwin’s Game

An Exciting Supernatural Series

Similar to “Squid Game”, “Darwin’s Game” immerses its viewers into a high-stakes, survival-based scenario where participants navigate through the game while uncovering hidden truths. This captivating and concise anime series is worth watching for any enthusiast of the genre.

1) It’s surprisingly captivating to see characters struggle in intense conflicts. The central character, Kaname, is a standout element within the series, as he uncovers the true identity of the puppeteer controlling events from behind the curtains.

10. High-Rise Invasion

Horror, Action, Survival, and More

A different anime, titled “High-Rise Invasion,” transports individuals into an alternate realm where survival becomes a necessity. This captivating and engaging series is sure to be appreciated by fans of the genre.

First you should treat this world as reality, not a dream or illusion.

Similar to “Darwin’s Game,” this anime is concise yet engaging, offering a delightful viewing experience. The enigma surrounding the universe where Yuri and her companions become entangled adds an intriguing layer that keeps you hooked.

9. Future Diary

A Thought-Provoking Psychological Thriller

The story, titled “Future Diary“, revolves around a deity planning to step down. In his search for suitable successors, he selects several humans whom he believes are capable of taking over. This divine figure equips each of these chosen individuals with cell phones that possess abilities like foreseeing the actions of their adversaries in advance.

The individual who survives until the end will assume the role of the next deity. This suspenseful journey is challenging to anticipate, as it’s filled with unexpected plot twists and turns derived from the heart of the underlying mystery.

8. Danganronpa

Action, Adventure, and More

Originally introduced as a visual novel game for the PlayStation Portable (PSP), Danganronpa has undergone remakes, ports, and numerous sequels and spin-offs. Not only that, but it also spawned several anime adaptations based on these video games. The primary premise revolves around a group of high school students who are unwillingly forced to participate in a lethal game of murder.

The anime series tend to stick quite closely to the storylines of the original games, but when it comes to character development, those who watch the anime might miss out on certain nuances. Still, both the anime adaptations and the games are highly recommended.

7. Sword Art Online

One of the Most Popular Anime of All Time

In contrast to the closer ties between Sword Art Online and Squid Game, or the genre as a whole, it’s important to note that Sword Art Online is more detached. The initial season of this anime revolves around a fantasy Massively Multiplayer Online (MMO) game where the players find themselves imprisoned within the virtual world. If a player meets their demise in the game, it results in their actual death outside of it.

Back then, I wasn’t aware of their true identities – there were actually three individuals among them whom I took lives. In an attempt to erase the memory, I shut my eyes, cupped my ears, and struggled to push those events away from my mind.

Is there a way out, or are some individuals longing for an escape to a perpetual fantastical realm instead? The initial season offers a thrilling blend of action, mystery, and romance, making it worth exploring. Despite the later seasons becoming peculiar, the first is still recommended. It falls under the category of “Isekai.

6. God Of High School

Action Anime With Tons of Great Fights

The series, titled “God of High School“, revolves around a fierce fighting competition, with the victor earning a substantial sum of money. This tournament, where seemingly no rules apply, attracts only the most resilient contestants. While the action is intense, there are also humorous moments interspersed among the matches. It shares similarities with “Squid Game“, another series, as they both originate from South Korea rather than Japan.

5. Death Parade

The Game After Death

Death Parade shares the emotional depth of certain betrayals found in the latter part of Squid Game. In this series, souls who have met their end under fortunate circumstances are led to a bar. This includes couples who pass away simultaneously. They must engage in a game to decide which one will journey to heaven and which one will descend into hell.

The games feature common pub pastimes such as darts and billiards. While many episodes stand alone, some connect with other characters beyond the main group of potential reapers.

4. The World Ends With You

Video Game Inspired Show

Originally released as a Japanese video game in 2007, “The World Ends With You” has recently seen a sequel, titled “Neo: The World Ends With You,” and an adaptation into anime format for the original story. This series revolves around Neku, who finds himself in an alternate version of Japan after meeting his demise.

Throughout the course of this series, he finds himself teaming up with multiple other contestants. This isn’t an ordinary game; it’s a deadly one lasting seven days. The twist is that if a player manages to emerge victorious, they are granted a single wish. However, there’s far more to this than meets the eye, and as the story progresses, the intricate layers of mystery will gradually unravel.

2025-01-26 20:01