The final episode of Attack on Titan, which premiered on November 4, 2023, evoked a range of emotions for anime fans. The anime's makers, MAPPA, delivered a stunning conclusion that stayed true to the original source material. As a result, many fans are now longing for something similar to fill the void left by the end of this beloved series.
Known for its intense battles, shocking deaths, and breathtaking aerial combat, Attack on Titan also offered intricate storytelling and thought-provoking messages. While it may be impossible to replicate the impact of this anime, there are other shows that capture a similar vibe.
Disclaimer: The shows are ranked in accordance with the author's opinion.
Shows that will excite you like Attack on Titan
10) Snowpiercer
Snowpiercer (Image via CJ Entertainment)
Similar to Attack on Titan, Snowpiercer portrays the battle of humanity against an unstoppable enemy. A failed effort to halt climate change results in a frozen Earth wasteland.
Seven years post-apocalypse, the few remaining humans live on a constantly moving train that circles the world. The train is divided into a class system, with 1st and 2nd class passengers living in luxury while 3rd class passengers, brought on board by Wilford, the train's creator, are relegated to being workers.
The workers endure harsh living conditions and face extreme oppression. Their worth is determined by their expertise and how much they contribute to the functioning of the train. Similar to Attack on Titan, Snowpiercer contains numerous socio-political connections that provide ample material for viewers to contemplate and analyze.
9) Naruto
As a child, Naruto Uzumaki (Image via Pierrot) endured a life filled with hardship as a 12-year-old ninja. Orphaned at birth, he faced rejection from the villagers who never fully accepted him as one of their own.
8) Tokyo Ghoul
Naruto's ultimate goal is to become the Hokage, the leader of his village, and he is willing to go to any lengths to achieve this. Like Eren from Attack on Titan, he is determined, loyal, and has a great deal of passion. Most importantly, Naruto places a high value on friendship, going to great lengths to help his friends throughout the anime.
Ken Kaneki from the anime Tokyo Ghoul has become an icon in the anime community, earning the admiration and loyalty of numerous fans. Much like the other anime mentioned before, Tokyo Ghoul explores the struggle of humanity as they navigate the existence of supernatural beings known as ghouls.
Humans and ghouls have lived alongside each other for a long time, with most ghouls living quietly and separately. However, there are some ghouls who are unable to control their bloodthirst and end up attacking humans. In one such instance, Rize, a powerful ghoul, attacks Ken Kaneki, a timid human.
During the attack, Ken miraculously survives when a building collapses on Rize. He is taken to the hospital and undergoes a surgery where a doctor unknowingly transplants Rize's organs into Ken, turning him into a half-human, half-ghoul hybrid with a single ghoul eye.
7) Chainsaw Man
Still from the anime (Image via MAPPA)
Chainsaw Man has been a 2023 standout, with multiple notable nominations and a win at the Harvey Awards. Denji, burdened with a massive debt from his father, has endured a difficult life, resorting to selling his organs for cash and struggling to afford basic necessities. Alongside his pet devil, Pochita, he works as a devil hunter for the Yakuza.
When Denji is double-crossed by a debt collector and falls victim to zombified humans, a strange turn of events unfolds. Pochita becomes Denji's heart through a contract, and Denji is resurrected as a hybrid devil-human known as the Chainsaw Man. Featuring intense, graphic battles akin to those in Attack on Titan, Chainsaw Man, despite being a recent anime, demonstrates significant potential.
6) Hunter x Hunter
Hunter x Hunter (Image via Madhouse)
This series follows the story of Gon Freecs, a spirited 12-year-old boy on a quest to find his missing father. Along the way, Gon befriends Killua, a talented and renowned assassin. Both boys display remarkable skill and determination as they strive to pass the rigorous Hunter’s exam, which is necessary to join the exclusive Hunters Association. Gon’s motivation stems from his desire to locate his legendary father, a former Hunter. Filled with gripping battles and compelling characters, this anime is a must-watch for fans of anime and Attack on Titan.
5) Jujutsu Kaisen
Ryomen Sukuna (Image via MAPPA)
Yuji Itadori, a high school student with extraordinary physical abilities, encounters a stranger who warns him that his occult club members are in danger because of a powerful cursed object in their possession. Yuji heroically saves them but inadvertently consumes the cursed object, miraculously surviving the ordeal. He soon discovers that his body now houses Ryomen Sukuna, the King of Curses.
Jujutsu Kaisen immerses audiences in the world of Jujutsu Sorcerers and curses. Similar to Attack on Titan's battle against Titans, jujutsu sorcerers fight against cursed spirits to safeguard the world.
4) Tribes of Europa
The show presents a remarkable and one-of-a-kind power system, making it a must-see for fans of supernatural and dark anime. Those who enjoy Attack on Titan will be thrilled to explore this new realm of magic and mystery.
The image provided is a still from the series (Image via W&B Television).
Taking place in 2074, the world has been ravaged by a global catastrophe, resulting in the fragmentation of the planet into numerous micro-states. Many of these states are engaged in constant warfare, each vying for supremacy. The narrative initially revolves around three prominent tribes: The Origines, a tribe dwelling in the forests; the Crows, known for their aggressive warrior culture; and the Crimsons, a tribe governed by the military with the objective of uniting Europe through diplomatic means.
3) Demon Slayer
The fates of three Origine siblings are irrevocably altered when a pilot from Atlantis crashes into the forest, leading them to discover a mysterious cube among the wreckage. The Crows launch an invasion on the Origines in order to reclaim the technology, resulting in the deaths of many. As the invasion unfolds, the three siblings become separated, ushering in dark and uncertain paths for each of them. The first season of the show concludes with a gripping cliffhanger, leaving fans on the edge of their seats.
Tanjiro Kamado (Image via Unfotable Studios)
In a world ruled by powerful demons, Tanjiro Kamado is a young boy destined for greatness. Tragically, his entire family falls victim to the cruel Demon King, Muzan, leaving his sister as the sole survivor - albeit now transformed into a demon herself. Determined to seek vengeance for his family and find a cure for his sister, Tanjiro embarks on a journey to become a demon slayer.
Muzan is an immortal demon king who has ruled for more than a millennium. His sole objective is to overcome the demons' weakness to sunlight. By feeding them his blood, Muzan can transform humans into demons. For centuries, he has been conducting experiments on humans in the hopes of creating a demon capable of withstanding sunlight.
The Hashiras, defenders of humanity, face off against Muzan and his organization, the Twelve Kizuki, in a battle that will shape the fate of humanity. Who will emerge victorious? Watch the anime to discover the outcome.
2) Game of Thrones
Still from the series (Image via HBO)
Game of Thrones, a popular BBC TV series, shares many similarities with Attack on Titan. Both are dark fantasy shows featuring intense battles, high character mortality rates, and clever strategic warfare.
The basic plot of Game of Thrones revolves around a war for control of the Iron Throne of the Seven Kingdoms. The series is known for its unexpected plot twists and is ideal for fans interested in political and social issues. Fans of supernatural elements will also enjoy Game of Thrones, as it includes dragons, knights, and giants.
1) Vinland Saga
Thorfinn Karlsefni (Image via MAPPA)
Similar to Attack on Titan, Vinland Saga delves into its dark themes and leads viewers through a compelling journey with a diverse set of characters, thrilling battles, and captivating character development. The highly praised second season of the anime premiered in early 2023, showcasing its solid storytelling and compelling narrative.
The main character of Vinland Saga, Thorfinn Karlsefni, is a young Viking who tragically witnesses his father's death at a tender age. Consumed by grief and seeking vengeance, he is determined to confront Askellad, the individual responsible for his father's demise.
Vinland Saga depicts the journey of a vengeful teenager who travels the world alongside Askellad, driven by the desire to eventually seek revenge. However, it also illustrates his transformation into a compassionate young man who chooses to build a peaceful sanctuary for those seeking a life free from conflict and turmoil.
Final thoughts
Attack on Titan has delved into various ethical challenges related to war and liberty, prompting viewers to ponder and develop their own perspectives on significant social and political matters. As a result, it has gained widespread popularity on a global scale.
The mentioned shows have a similar impact on audiences, stimulating engaging and constructive thoughts. Immersing oneself in new worlds, learning to appreciate them, and emerging from the experience having gained valuable insights make these shows a worthwhile watch following Attack on Titan.
Editor's P/S
Attack on Titan is one of the most popular anime series of all time, and its final episode left fans around the world feeling emotional. While it may be impossible to replicate the impact of this anime, there are other shows that capture a similar vibe.
For fans of Attack on Titan, Snowpiercer is a must-watch. This show portrays the battle of humanity against an unstoppable enemy, and it contains numerous socio-political connections that provide ample material for viewers to contemplate and analyze. Another great option is Naruto, which follows the story of a young ninja who is determined to become the leader of his village. Like Eren from Attack on Titan, Naruto is determined, loyal, and has a great deal of passion. Finally, Tokyo Ghoul is a dark and intense series that explores the struggle of humanity as they navigate the existence of supernatural beings known as ghouls.