10 Best Fantasy Anime to Watch if You Like The Lord of the Rings

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The epic fantasy series, “The Lord of the Rings,” is a cherished and widely recognized franchise that continues to captivate audiences. With an enthusiastic fanbase and multiple films, novels, and television productions delving into J.R.R. Tolkien’s created world, there’s always something new for fans to explore. However, while there’s a wealth of content for those seeking an extensive journey through Middle-earth, the series isn’t endless, which is where this list proves useful.

I have compiled a list of 10 anime with elements rooted in the fantasy genre. This collection encompasses high fantasy, dark fantasy, sci-fi blended with fantasy, and other subgenres. However, what connects them all is their shared ties to the influential work of J.R.R. Tolkien that sparked an enduring genre for many years. These anime draw inspiration from his works in terms of intricate world-building, grandiose quests, climactic battles, and protagonists who could easily be found among the Fellowship. Give a few of them a try, and see if you agree with their resemblance to Tolkien’s epic tales.

10) Magi: The Labyrinth of Magic

The animated series, Magi: The Labyrinth of Magic, takes its cues from the Middle Eastern tales in One Thousand and One Nights. Characters like Aladdin and Alibaba set out on grand adventures; references to traditional Arabic creatures such as djinn or magi (as hinted by the title) are also found throughout. Using mythology deeply rooted in culture gives the show a grandiose feel, making the stories and journeys of the characters feel like they’re part of an epic saga unfolding right before you. It doesn’t hurt that the series is packed with exciting sword fights and magic too!

In this anime adaptation, the story revolves around Aladdin, a character reimagined as a Magi – a potent sorcerer tasked with choosing the worthy future rulers. His travel companion, Alibaba, is the chosen candidate for the King Vessel. Together, they delve into dungeons and embark on adventures, each pursuing their individual destinies. Yet, they are frequently reunited to combat evil forces and fight against political deceit. Their alliance serves to promote a more just world for humanity.

9) Goblin Slayer

The animated series Goblin Slayer is a dark fantasy that authentically portrays the grim realities of living in a fantasy world overrun by monsters and corruption. Unlike other shows, this series doesn’t shy away from depicting the brutal impact of its medieval setting on both major and minor characters. This unflinching approach gives the anime a sense of raw authenticity that colors its environment in shades of grey. Its exploration of themes such as trauma, the harshness of fate, and exploitation makes it an intriguingly compelling watch.

In the fantasy series Goblin Slayer, we delve into a realm where many brave adventurers and wanderers thrive. A novice Priestess finds herself in peril when her adventuring group encounters a pack of goblins, who ruthlessly attack them. Just as the goblins are about to claim her life, she’s miraculously rescued by the Goblin Slayer – an imposing, top-tier adventurer, whose sole mission is to eliminate every last goblin. With a shared goal, they form a new partnership, journeying across the realm, slaying goblins along the way while uncovering secrets about their world and each other.

8) The Vision of Escaflowne

In contemporary discussions about fantasy anime, The Vision of Escaflowne isn’t frequently mentioned, even though it served as an inspiration for numerous isekai series that came later. Debuting in 1996, the show was notable for its exceptional production quality and unique fusion of mecha, fantasy, and romance genres. Despite being a brief series comprising just 26 episodes, The Vision of Escaflowne left a lasting impression with its mature themes such as destiny, war’s consequences, sacrifice, and the power of love, making it a touchstone for shows that followed in its wake.

In my perspective, I found myself immersed in an extraordinary tale known as “The Vision of Escaflowne.” This narrative follows a high-schooler named Hitomi Kanzaki, whose ordinary world suddenly shifts when she encounters a mysterious boy named Van Fanel – who just happens to be the king of the Kingdom of Fanelia – battling a dragon at her school. As if that wasn’t enough, I soon discovered that this fantasy realm of Gaea has bestowed Hitomi with powerful prophetic abilities, which draw her further into the escalating conflict between neighboring kingdoms. The Zaibach Empire, a formidable military force, is on a quest to seize more power by reawakening the legendary city of Atlantis, and Hitomi unwillingly becomes an integral part of this intricate and perilous saga.

7) Claymore

Claymore, an outstanding dark fantasy anime from 2007, has been undeservedly overlooked. One of its standout features is its diverse cast of characters, each with unique narratives intertwined in an intricate tapestry. Not only do these women brandish gigantic swords and don armor, which is impressive for anime, but the series also investigates the repercussions of turning individuals into weapons. Underlying themes such as the essence of humanity and the detrimental effects of vengeance weave throughout the storyline, creating a profoundly engaging viewing experience.

In the anime titled Claymore, the narrative unfolds on an isolated island inhabited by terrifying creatures known as Yoma. These shape-shifting monsters prey on humans and are difficult to subdue. To combat this menace, beings called Claymores are crafted – they appear as attractive women but possess characteristics of Yomas, making them formidable warriors. Each Claymore is assigned a section of the island to safeguard, bravely engaging in battles against the escalating danger posed by these beasts.

6) Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End

The popular 2023 fantasy anime, titled Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End, has been captivating viewers with its poignant exploration of emotions like nostalgia and regret, emphasizing the value of cherishing time spent with loved ones. Unlike many stories centered around a climactic final battle, this anime delves into the aftermath of the hero’s journey, shedding light on the true essence of living life to its fullest potential.

The storyline centers around Frieren, a potent elven sorceress who vanquished the malevolent Demon King with her fellow adventurers’ assistance. With the danger to her realm vanished, Frieren bid farewell to her companions to traverse the land and further explore her powers. Her sole vow is to reappear in fifty years to reunite with her old friends during a meteor shower. The anime presents Frieren’s insights on human existence and its fleeting nature as she contemplates these aspects amidst flashbacks and contemporary scenes.

5) The Twelve Kingdoms

The anime titled “The Twelve Kingdoms” also joins our list as another isekai fantasy, and it certainly deserves its spot. This show draws heavily from the timeless themes of classic high fantasy narratives such as justice, self-discovery, and leadership.

One unique aspect of this series is its emphasis on how even minor positions within a dysfunctional or unjust system can lead to change – a notion reminiscent of Tolkien’s works, perhaps?

Furthermore, “The Twelve Kingdoms” boasts exceptional world-building, a well-organized social structure, and an engaging viewing experience that has captured the hearts of many fans.

In this tale, The Twelve Kingdoms serve as the primary backdrop, a collection of islands existing in a universe mirroring our own but separated by a permeable veil. Occasionally, this barrier thins enough for individuals from Earth to be transported to these kingdoms and vice versa. One ordinary day, Youko Nakajima’s routine life is disrupted by the sudden arrival of an enigmatic figure who battles ferocious creatures before spiritually transporting her to a different world. Alongside two of her fellow students, Youko navigates through the various kingdoms, adapting to and discovering the wonders of their new environment.

4) Yona of the Dawn

In simpler terms, “Yona of the Dawn” is highly appreciated in the anime world for its intriguing yet enjoyable plot mixed with strong emotional content. The show’s animation and art style are exceptional, making it a delight to watch visually. However, beyond being eye-catching, the anime offers substantial content, exploring themes like political turmoil, war’s destruction, struggles of the powerless, and personal development.

Embarking on an adventure that echoes the timeless hero’s journey, I find myself at the heart of the enchanting tale of “Yona of the Dawn”. Once upon a time, I was a blissfully sheltered princess, Yona, living in a world of peace and prosperity. However, my idyllic life shattered on the eve of my sweet sixteenth birthday when my beloved father met an untimely end at the hands of his treacherous cousin. The peaceful kingdom plunged into political chaos, leaving me with no choice but to escape with my loyal bodyguard for protection.

Now, I am driven by a relentless determination to restore the kingdom’s harmony and seek justice for my father’s death. To do so, I must embark on a perilous quest, tracking down the legendary Four Dragon Warriors – figures who once united our land in strength and unity. Their power is my hope for salvation, and I will stop at nothing to find them and reclaim the kingdom that was cruelly taken from me.

3) Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood

Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood” is an outstanding representative of timeless masterpieces within the anime world, generally regarded as one of the top fantasy series. The show delves into complex themes such as family bonds, pain and grief, government deceit, and the cost of wisdom. Despite not being the latest production, its animation quality, plot development, and creative universe don’t merely keep pace with today’s standards; they often outshine contemporary works in this genre. This may be due to the fact that “Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood” aims to narrate its story succinctly and substantially without unnecessary additions or embellishments, delivering a powerful narrative that endures the test of time.

In this tale, we follow the journey of Edward and Alphonse Elric – two brothers who share a strong bond and strive to revive their mother by means of alchemy. Their unconventional methods lead to calamity: Alphonse’s physical form dissipates, his spirit trapped within an armor suit, while Edward loses both an arm and a leg in the mishap. Faced with the remnants of their old lives, they make the decision to venture towards the capital, aspiring to become State Alchemists, or perhaps unearth the Philosopher’s Stone, hoping it will heal their afflictions and restore their bodies to their former selves.

2) Record of Lodoss War

Record of Lodoss War is another enduring high-fantasy anime from the 1990s, which originated as a transcription of a Dungeons and Dragons campaign. The narrative delves into heavy themes like the ongoing battle between good and evil, the debate between free will and fate’s influence, and the notion of morality. Set within a conventional fantasy universe filled with creatures, spells, and conflict among deities, Record of Lodoss War embodies all the appealing aspects that define the genre.

The story unfolds on the continent of Lodoss, a world shaped by deities embodying creation and destruction, resulting in a continual struggle between light and darkness. This strife permeates throughout the land, with numerous kingdoms frequently at odds or engaged in warfare.

Parn, a novice knight, embarks on an adventure alongside his comrades, aspiring to forge his own heroic legacy. Their quest, however, unknowingly plunges them into the complex political turmoil of Lodoss and an ominous plot to control the land by an evil force.

1) Berserk

If you’re a fan of both anime and fantasy, then it’s likely you anticipated finding Berserk on this list. Although fans of the manga might argue that no adaptation can fully capture its essence (and they may have a point), the original 1997 series is as close as we’ve come to an authentic and well-paced portrayal on screen. Berserk, which is the title of the high fantasy manga, stands head and shoulders above other big names in the genre when it comes to the anime adaptation. Explaining why Berserk has such a dedicated fan base can be challenging, but if I had to attempt an explanation, it’s probably due to the way the series doesn’t shy away from the harsh, bleak reality of the world it depicts. Themes like good versus evil, human morality, finding hope or purpose, violence against innocents, and rebelling against one’s predestined fate are all explored in depth within Berserk.

I find myself in a world that mirrors medieval reality, raw and unforgiving. As an outsider looking in, I observe Guts, once a child soldier cast away, nurtured by a troop of mercenaries who trained him for battle since his tender years. His existence is a loop of pain, brutality, and mortality, until he matures enough to draw the eye of Griffith, the charismatic commander of the Band of the Hawk. Over time, Guts forms a bond with Griffith, whose relentless ambition and insatiable thirst for power ultimately lead him to commit the greatest act of deception. In the wake of this betrayal, Guts vows to seek retribution against his former ally, regardless of the sacrifices required.

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2025-09-04 04:43