The Ultimate Essential Guide to Must-Watch JoJo's Bizarre Adventure Anime!

JoJo's Bizarre Adventure lives up to its name by being truly peculiar and exceptionally distinctive. The series consists of multiple parts, each set in different locales and time periods, featuring a fresh ensemble cast. Despite their differences, all parts share the ability to keep viewers guessing, with each moment surpassing the last in its sheer surprise and impressive style.

Given the unique impact of JoJo's Bizarre Adventure, fans may struggle to find another series that elicits similar emotions. However, there are still numerous anime that appear to have drawn inspiration from or bear resemblance to certain elements of JJBA, which fans are likely to find equally captivating.

10 Fist of the North Star

Kenshirou sets off on a quest to save his fiancée, Yuria, who has been taken captive by his once-friend and rival, Shin. However, this journey proves to be anything but ordinary due to Kenshirou's extraordinary fighting skills and his unique titular technique.

Similar to the main characters in JJBA, Kenshirou employs his abilities to defend the vulnerable, showcasing his unwavering determination and commitment to justice. Furthermore, the show possesses a distinct penchant for the dramatic, often pushing the boundaries, resulting in numerous memorable quotes that continue to circulate online despite the series' age.

9 Kaiji: Ultimate Survivor

In Kaiji: Ultimate Survivor, the main character Kaiji faces a daunting financial burden when he agrees to be a co-signer for a colleague's loan. In a chance to eliminate his debt, Kaiji boards a ship where he finds himself embroiled in perilous gambling contests against others who are also burdened by debt.

Kaiji showcases a determined protagonist who employs strategic thinking to triumph in these intense battles orchestrated against his will. Despite not being the most widely recognized series on this list, it has left a lasting impact on its audience, even earning recognition from the creator of the critically acclaimed show Squid Game, who acknowledges it as one of his sources of inspiration.

8 Hunter x Hunter

Hunter x Hunter and JoJo's Bizarre Adventure, both highly influential and critically acclaimed series, share several similarities. Both series fearlessly defy the conventions of typical shonen anime, incorporating intricate strategies and unexpected plot developments.

Additionally, these two series boast a rich cast of captivating characters, whether they are heroes or villains. Each character is skillfully crafted, showcasing original and imaginative abilities. The premise of Hunter x Hunter revolves around the protagonists' quest to become Hunters, undertaking perilous challenges in pursuit of their ambitions.

7 Gurren Lagann

The notable parallel between Gurren Lagann and JoJo lies in their extravagant and flamboyant nature, adding to their outstanding reputation. At first glance, these series may seem unrelated, with JoJo focusing on the supernatural and Gurren Lagann delving into a realm intertwined with Sci-Fi and Mecha elements.

In Gurren Lagann, the protagonists embark on a captivating adventure through an enigmatic world where humanity resides underground, oblivious to the existence of the sky. Apart from their penchant for exaggerated action, both series also place a significant emphasis on the growth of their characters, highlighting themes of bravery and unwavering resolve.

6 Mob Psycho 100

Similar to JJBA Part 4, Diamond is Unbreakable, Mob Psycho 100 is set mainly in a school setting. The main character, Mob, desires a simple life surrounded by loved ones. However, his exceptional psychic abilities frequently entangle him in peculiar situations.

Identity and friendship are prevalent themes in Mob Psycho 100. Both shows excel at seamlessly blending intense action sequences with light-hearted humor, while also emphasizing the significance of character development for their diverse range of personalities.

5 Golden Kamuy

Set in early 1900s Hokkaido, the captivating tale of Golden Kamuy revolves around Sugimoto, a war veteran, and Asipra, an Ainu girl, as they embark on a quest for gold. Despite their differing backgrounds and intentions, the two main characters, along with their comrades, must stick together amidst the pursuit of dangerous criminals and treasure hunters.

Golden Kamuy not only shines in its elements unrelated to JoJo's, such as its meticulous attention to historical details and depiction of Ainu culture, but it also shares surprising similarities. Just like JoJo's, the series showcases a diverse and fascinating ensemble of characters and skillfully blends intense action sequences with occasional moments of humor.

4 One Punch Man

While both JJBA and One Punch Man embrace their self-aware absurdity, One Punch Man takes it to another level by placing comedy at the forefront. The series revolves around the life of Saitama, a protagonist who accidentally becomes incredibly powerful after three years of intense training.

Saitama's strength is so overwhelming that no villain can pose a threat to him. However, his unassuming appearance often leads others to underestimate him, resulting in his strength going unrecognized. Similar to JoJo, One Punch Man features over-the-top action sequences and clever humor that adds to its appeal.

3 Shaman King

In the world of Shaman King, individuals with the ability to interact with spirits and dominate them in combat coexist with humans. The coveted title of "Shaman King" is exclusively granted to the victor of a highly exclusive tournament that occurs once every 500 years. This victor, deemed deserving of governing the Great Spirit and shaping the destiny of the world for the subsequent 500 years, can exert significant influence.

Although Shaman King possesses a different atmosphere and generally lacks the darkness found in JJBA, it showcases captivating action sequences infused with supernatural powers. Alongside intermittent moments of comedic relief, the series delves into profound themes of determination, friendship, and accountability.

2 Baki

Baki shares similarities with JoJo right from its presentation, with unique art styles and somewhat comparable character designs. However, Baki differs in terms of realism, lacking any supernatural elements. The main character, named Baki, is a martial artist focused on surpassing his own father, who is considered the strongest man alive.

Throughout Baki's journey, he engages in various battles against different opponents, each possessing their own distinctive fighting techniques. Similar to JoJo, Baki places great importance on its dynamic action sequences and the strategic elements within them, occasionally incorporating graphic scenes of violence.

1 Bungo Stray Dogs

Bungo Stray Dogs follows the story of Atsushi Nakajima, a troubled orphan with unique special abilities. Expelled from his orphanage, he finds refuge with Osamu Dazai, the leader of the Armed Detective Agency. This group utilizes their powers to combat organized crime. The series draws inspiration from JoJo, evident in its imaginative powers, real-world allusions, and exploration of themes like identity and friendship. However, Bungo Stray Dogs stands as an original narrative with its own merits.

Fans of JoJo's eccentric characters and their thrilling escapades may struggle to find a comparable experience elsewhere. Bungo Stray Dogs lives up to its name by delivering unexpected and shocking twists, along with diverse story arcs. Nevertheless, the recommendations on this list offer elements that will satisfy viewers seeking that familiar JoJo vibe. At the very least, JoJo's Bizarre Adventure fans can rest assured that they have alternatives to enjoy while waiting for the next adapted parts.