Demon Slayer stands as one of the most celebrated anime series globally, transcending typical genre boundaries. This engaging show has drawn in viewers, including those who typically shy away from anime, positioning it as an excellent “starter anime” for newcomers looking to delve into this vibrant medium.
With the To the Hashira Training arc wrapping up on June 30, 2024, fans are now eagerly anticipating the upcoming Infinity Castle movie trilogy, scheduled for fall 2025. In the meantime, many are seeking other anime series to satiate their cravings. Here, we present ten anime recommendations that might not replicate the exact essence of Demon Slayer, but certainly encapsulate its most beloved elements, promising to please any dedicated fan.
10 Jujutsu Kaisen
Based on the Original Manga By Gege Akutami, Animated By MAPPA

Jujutsu Kaisen is another popular shonen anime that shares a wealth of similarities with Demon Slayer. The story centers on Yuji Itadori, a high school student thrust into the world of conflict due to unforeseen circumstances in his life. Much like Tanjiro’s journey in Demon Slayer, Yuji too embarks on a path of heroism despite being an ordinary person at first.
Filled with thrilling battles, Jujutsu Kaisen delights fans who appreciate the dynamic confrontations between demon slayers and demons as they will find parallels in the epic clashes between jujutsu sorcerers and cursed spirits. The enduring motif of good versus evil prevails in both narratives, interspersed with much-needed comic relief that lightens the tone amidst darker themes.
9 Bleach
Based on the Original Manga By Tite Kubo, Animated By Studio Pierrot

Bleach aligns well with the themes found in Demon Slayer, featuring a high school male protagonist endowed with extraordinary abilities. Ichigo Kurosaki, the lead character, fights against spirits known as Hollows using his soul reaper powers. Both heroes, Ichigo and Tanjiro, share a relentless will to save their worlds from malevolent forces, making Ichigo’s journey particularly appealing for fans of Tanjiro’s noble quest.
This series melds adventure with action, transforming the concept of ghosts into an intriguing dark fantasy. With thrilling battles and collaborations among characters to vanquish evil, the Shinigami organization closely mirrors the Hashira in Demon Slayer in their commitment to justice and the protection of humanity.
8 Hell’s Paradise
Based on the Original Manga By Yuji Kaku, Animated By MAPPA

Darker in tone than Demon Slayer, Hell’s Paradise narrates the story of Gabimaru the Hollow, a shinobi on death row. His only chance at redemption lies in retrieving the Elixir of Life from a perilous island, showcasing how high the stakes are for him. This desperate quest resonates with the themes of duty and sacrifice prevalent in Demon Slayer.
Gabimaru’s fierce battles against monstrous entities on the island, paired with his singular focus on reuniting with his wife, echoes the determination seen in Tanjiro’s endeavors.
7 Hunter x Hunter
Based on the Original Manga By Yoshihiro Togashi, Animated By Nippon Animation and Madhouse

The Hunter profession in Hunter x Hunter closely mirrors the role of demon slayers in Demon Slayer, both requiring arduous training and specific skill sets that set them apart from the average human. Viewers will see Gon Freecss’s challenges echo the trials Tanjiro endures while striving for acceptance as a demon slayer, especially during his rigorous preparations for the Final Selection.
Themes of camaraderie and growth alongside friends are significant in both series. The protagonists discover that facing life’s toughest adversities is made easier in the company of trusted allies. Tanjiro thrives among his companions, much like Gon learns throughout his journey.
6 Tokyo Ghoul
Based on the Original Manga By Sui Ishida, Animated By Studio Pierrot

The horrific creatures in Tokyo Ghoul share unsettling parallels with the demons in Demon Slayer, as both ghouls and demons prey on humans, creating an environment of fear and resistance from ordinary people. Both narratives explore the struggle of humanity against predatory beings, making this dark thematic connection engaging for fans of either series.
While divergences exist, the underlying premise of man-eating beasts enhances the allure for viewers who found enjoyment in either title.
5 Chainsaw Man
Based on the Original Manga By Tatsuki Fujimoto, Animated By MAPPA

Chainsaw Man follows Denji, an ordinary teenager whose life transforms overnight due to newfound superpowers. While his life took a turn for the worse before gaining these abilities, Denji proceeds to confront devils as part of the Public Safety Devil Hunters, much like Tanjiro’s battles against demons.
Although Denji and Tanjiro possess distinct outlooks, their journeys align through their shared goal of overcoming evil. Both series illuminate the struggles of the everyday individual suddenly endowed with extraordinary strength, highlighting similar themes of conflict that echo throughout the battles of Demon Slayer.
4 Naruto
Based on the Original Manga By Masashi Kishimoto, Animated By Studio Pierrot

A fundamental classic in shonen anime, Naruto has profoundly inspired Koyoharu Gotouge, the creator of Demon Slayer. Centered on Naruto Uzumaki, the series follows his quest to become the Hokage of the Hidden Leaf Village, highlighting themes of perseverance amidst adversity, echoing Tanjiro’s unwavering resolve.
Both protagonists grapple with social stigma, igniting their determination to prove themselves. Themes of collaboration, diligence, and righteousness prevalent in both series ensure they resonate deeply with audiences. Each series boasts vibrant animation and a compelling musical score, making Naruto a seamless selection for fans of Demon Slayer.
3 Fullmetal Alchemist
Based on the Original Manga By Hiromu Arakawa, Animated By Bones

Fullmetal Alchemist excels in elucidating themes of familial bonds, making it a fitting recommendation for fans of Demon Slayer. The narrative follows brothers Edward and Alphonse Elric as they endeavor to reclaim their original bodies after a tragic mishap while attempting to resurrect their mother—an emotional core akin to Tanjiro’s quest to restore Nezuko’s humanity.
As Muzan’s brutal attack devastated Tanjiro’s family, his subsequent pledge to become a demon slayer mirrors Edward’s relentless pursuit of the Philosopher’s Stone to save his brother. Both series are intricately woven with themes of sacrifice and the lengths one will go to protect loved ones.
2 Soul Eater
Based on the Original Manga By Atsushi Ohkubo, Animated By Bones

Soul Eater provides a fantastic blend of humor interlaced with its more somber moments, making it well-suited for fans of Demon Slayer. The storyline follows students at the Death Weapon Meister Academy who strive to enhance their weapons to peak performance while collecting souls.
Challenges arise as they collaborate to achieve their collective goals, invoking a sense of teamwork akin to the camaraderie depicted within the ranks of Demon Slayer’s Hashira battling together against foes. Visually arresting battles and an engaging narrative will captivate audiences alike.
1 My Hero Academia
Based on the Original Manga By Kohei Horikoshi, Animated By Bones

My Hero Academia stands out as a fresh interpretation of the superhero genre. The series follows Izuku Midoriya, affectionately known as Deku, on his journey to becoming the number one Pro Hero, showcasing resilience and determination reminiscent of Tanjiro’s character arc.
Both series oscillate between hilarity and poignant moments that tug at the heartstrings. While devoid of demons, My Hero Academia features villains every bit as formidable, necessitating just as much effort from heroes to overcome wickedness as demon slayers exert against their demonic foes. Both franchises offer uplifting narratives centered around the eternal struggle between good and evil, leaving viewers inspired and hopeful.