The celebrated video game and television series The Last of Us immerses audiences in a harrowing tale of survival within a post-apocalyptic landscape inhabited by zombie-like infected. Its compelling character development, intense action sequences, and stark representations of societal collapse have garnered widespread acclaim from both viewers and critics.
For fans captivated by this poignant narrative, a selection of outstanding anime also explores the same themes of survival amidst calamity and the enduring bonds formed in times of adversity. Below, we highlight ten compelling anime series that echo the gripping atmosphere of The Last of Us.
10 Essential Anime for Fans of The Last of Us
1) Attack on Titan
In a world encased by colossal walls, humanity strives for survival against the insatiable Titans—humanoid giants that feast on humans. The story ignites when these colossal beings break through the defenses, launching humankind into a desperate fight for survival.
As it unfolds over four riveting seasons, Attack on Titan has captured the imaginations of viewers globally. With the fourth season having concluded in 2023, this series serves as a captivating choice for those seeking exhilarating survival stakes.
2) Tokyo Magnitude 8.0
This poignant tale follows two siblings, Mirai and Yuki, as they navigate a devastated Tokyo following a catastrophic earthquake. With their city unrecognizable and fraught with peril, they embark on a journey home, facing countless challenges along the way.
Mirai and Yuki’s story resonates with themes of resilience and human spirit, akin to those found in The Last of Us. This anime is a perfect addition for viewers searching for emotional narratives centered on survival.
3) Made in Abyss
While its aesthetic appears whimsical, Made in Abyss delves into dark themes with its protagonist, Riko, embarking on a perilous descent into an abyss in search of her mother. Along her journey, she confronts harrowing challenges that challenge her very nature.
Much like Ellie in The Last of Us, Riko’s bond with her protector embodies the deep connections formed in perilous circumstances. This series is essential for those interested in stories that explore the depths of human perseverance.
4) Ergo Proxy
Set in a dystopian future, humanity has retreated to biodomes, shielding themselves from the wasteland outside. However, the rise of enigmatic entities known as proxies forces Agent Re-I Mayer to confront terrifying truths hidden beyond their confines.
Similar to The Last of Us, this anime explores the fragile boundaries of safety and the chaos that erupts when those walls are breached. Intrigued viewers will appreciate the complex narrative and visuals in this atmospheric series.
5) Kabaneri of the Iron Fortress
During a deadly outbreak of the “Kabane”zombie virus in feudal Japan, humanity’s survivors retreat to heavily fortified structures. Among them is a young steam smith named Ikoma, who must unite with others to fend off relentless kabane attacks.
With its blend of zombies, steampunk elements, and survival drama, Kabaneri of the Iron Fortress appeals to those yearning for action-packed narratives reminiscent of The Last of Us.
6) Wolf’s Rain
In a world ravaged by environmental collapse, the story follows an outcast wolf named Kiba as he searches for a mythical paradise amidst the ruins of civilization. Accompanied by companions from varied backgrounds, Kiba faces both danger and fleeting moments of hope.
Wolf’s Rain mirrors the somber reflection of The Last of Us, portraying society’s remnants amid overwhelming despair while illustrating humanity’s quest for connection in dire circumstances.
7) Zom 100: Bucket List of the Dead
When an ordinary office worker, Akira, is liberated from his mundane life due to a sudden zombie apocalypse, he seizes the opportunity to fulfill a list of 100 life goals before succumbing to the chaos around him.
This refreshing blend of comedy and poignant moments of resilience echoes the themes of hope and camaraderie similar to The Last of Us. Audiences seeking humor amid horror will delight in Zom 100.
8) Girls’ Last Tour
As they traverse the remnants of civilization left in the wake of an apocalyptic war, two friends, Chito and Yuuri, embark on a journey filled with introspection and survival, scrounging for sustenance in a destroyed world.
This anime’s reflective nature on humanity’s legacy resonates with the depth of storytelling found in The Last of Us, offering viewers an emotional experience that lingers long after viewing.
9) Vivy: Fluorite Eye’s Song
Tasked with a mission to alter history and prevent humanity’s demise, AI Vivy faces obstacles as her fellow intelligences rebel, leading to devastating consequences across a cyberpunk dystopia.
This high-octane anime combines striking animation with intense storylines, appealing to those who appreciate complex worldbuilding and the dynamics of survival.
10) Gungrave
In a city overrun by organized crime and mysterious undead forces, mob enforcer Beyond the Grave embarks on a violent quest filled with confrontation and intrigue concerning his past relationships.
Offering gripping action and emotional depth, Gungrave promises to satiate viewers’ cravings for intense narratives akin to the heart-wrenching tones of The Last of Us.
In Conclusion
The narrative of survival and companionship in a shattered world portrayed in The Last of Us has left a lasting impact on audiences globally. The ten anime series highlighted here delve into similar post-apocalyptic themes, delivering extraordinary adventures that test humanity’s limits.
Each of these stories encapsulates the challenges faced by their characters as they navigate through bizarre enemies, lost worlds, and their intertwined fates, inviting viewers to reflect on hope amidst despair. For those yearning for rich, evocative tales of survival, these anime series are a treasure trove waiting to be explored.