Tensura Slime, or That Time I was Reincarnated as a Slime, is an intriguing isekai where the main character Satoru Mikami is reborn as a humble slime. After assimilating a mighty yet sealed dragon, now called Rimuru, he becomes the ruler of a vast forest filled with monsters and creatures. Consequently, he faces numerous challenges in his newfound role.
With his incredible 'Predator' ability to consume and imitate anything, Rimuru swiftly rises from being a weak creature in the RPG world to becoming the most powerful monster. Each triumph only serves to further enhance his strength.
Overlord and nine other manga that Tensura Slime fans should read
Tensura Slime has gained popularity in the isekai genre for its refreshing take on a seemingly powerless creature. For avid followers of the series, we present a list of ten captivating manga titles that share similar qualities and are definitely worth exploring.
1) So I’m a Spider, so what?
The Nameless Spider protagonist. (Image via Millepensee)
A group of high school students find themselves transported to a fantastical world after a failed spell. However, one unfortunate girl is reincarnated as a small, weak spider in the perilous depths of a dangerous dungeon. To survive, she must fight her way through the monster-filled world.
Fans of Tensura Slime will immediately notice the similarities, as this isekai story offers a fresh take on the typical rebirth narrative. The protagonist starts off as a small, weak creature, reminiscent of a generic RPG mob, and must work their way up the power hierarchy to become the ultimate fantasy champion. This makes the eventual success all the more satisfying. Any fan of Tensura Slime should definitely give this story a chance.
2) Overlord
The lich protagonist, Ainz Ooal Gown, thinking. (Image via Studio Madhouse)
In the distant future, as the servers of an MMO called Momonga shut down, the final player named Momonga realizes that he is unable to log out. To his surprise, he finds himself trapped in a new world inhabited by NPCs who seem remarkably lifelike. Desperate to connect with fellow players, he adopts the alias Ainz Ooal Gown and embarks on his journey as a formidable skeletal lich. Unfettered by moral constraints, Ainz sets out to explore this unfamiliar realm. Just like Tensura Slime, this isekai tale presents a fresh twist on the conventional narrative. However, instead of starting off as a weak creature striving for strength, Overlord casts the protagonist as the strongest monster and the primary antagonist. This peculiar approach to the isekai genre makes for an engrossing read.
3) Konosuba
From left to right - Megumin, Darkness, Kazuma, and Aqua, the protagonists of Konosuba. (Image via Studio Deen)
In the classic comedy Isekai series Konosuba, the shut-in Kazuma is brought back to life by the ditzy goddess Aqua. However, he soon realizes that she isn't as helpful as he initially believed and that they are both trapped in this new world together. Despite being stuck with a dysfunctional team of adventurers, Kazuma tries to live a peaceful life in the starting town. However, trouble always seems to find them. As a staple of the Isekai genre, Konosuba is not only a great introduction to Isekai, but it also offers a comedic and enjoyable experience for even the most dedicated isekai fans, especially those who love Tensura Slime.
4) Re:Monster
In Re:Monster, the protagonist experiences an unconventional rebirth as a feeble goblin named Gob-Rou. Armed with the knowledge from his previous life, he discovers that devouring other monsters is the key to gaining strength in the new world. With unwavering determination, Gob-Rou embarks on a journey to ascend the hierarchy of creatures, aiming not only to become the mightiest monster but also the most formidable warrior.
Similar to Tensura Slime and So I'm a Spider, so what?, Re:Monster follows the protagonist's arduous path from societal outcast to a prominent figure within their society. Breaking societal barriers and carving a name for themselves, they navigate not only the hierarchy of monsters but also the complex world of politics, much like Rimuru in Tensura Slime. Witnessing Gob-Rou's triumphant rise to the top offers a truly gratifying and engaging read.
5) Dungeon Toilet
Dungeon Toilet Volume 1 cover. (Image via Roots) The sword protagonist Teacher and his wielder, Fran. (Image via C2C)
Being reincarnated as a slime is one thing, but what if it were as a toilet? Fortunately, Yotaro's rebirth doesn't involve such a fate. However, in this strange new world, he embarks on a quest to find the finest toilet available. Alongside saving the world from the Demon King, Yotaro must also overcome the horrors of lacking indoor plumbing.
Dungeon Toilet is undeniably a comedic isekai that doesn't take itself too seriously. It wastes no time and provides a short, amusing storyline. With its clever and amusing premise, Dungeon Toilet manages to captivate readers without becoming tiresome. It serves as a great addition to the reading list of any Tensura Slime fan.
6) Reincarnated as a Sword
The sword protagonist 'Teacher' and his wielder, Fran. (Image via Studio C2C)
In this new Isekai story, the protagonist is reincarnated as a nameless sword, waiting to find a new wielder. Along comes Fran, a young enslaved catgirl, who uses the sword to save her caravan. The protagonist is given the name Teacher, as both he and Fran embark on a journey to make her worthy of wielding the sword.
Reincarnated as a Sword offers a fresh and exciting dynamic, making it a must-read for fans of the genre. Watching a weaker character transform into a stronger one under the guidance of a powerful mentor may remind readers of Rimuru's growth in Tensura Slime.
7) Death March to the Parallel World Rhapsody
When programmer Ichiro dozes off while working on eliminating bugs in an MMO, he wakes up as Satou, an NPC he previously used for testing. Using his magic spells, he accidentally eliminates an attacking army and unintentionally kills a god, elevating his power level. With a newfound purpose, he embarks on a journey to fully explore this world, all while concealing his true strength to avoid drawing attention. This is an Isekai story that goes beyond the power fantasy, focusing on the challenge of keeping his abilities hidden from others. It delves into a fantastical world with hidden secrets, making it a captivating manga for Tensura Slime fans.
8) Tobari of the Dawn
Protagonists Tobari and Reimei, respectively. (Image via Momo Chidori)
Tobari of the Dawn revolves around a straightforward concept - a yokai and a young man work together to overcome the divide between their respective species. As they face various challenges, the central question arises: will they succeed in finally ending the everlasting feud between their kinds?
With its emphasis on camaraderie, Tobari of the Dawn serves as a suitable choice for readers who are drawn to Tensura Slime's intricate political undertones. The webmanga endeavors to unite humanity and monsters, making it a valuable addition to any enthusiast's collection.
9) Dr. Stone
Senku, main protagonist of Dr. Stone. (Image via TMS Entertainment)
After being petrified for over three thousand years, Senku Ishigama, a brilliant mind, is finally released from his stone prison. Determined to revive humanity, Senku quickly focuses on reconstructing the world. By discovering how to free others using nitric acid, he sets his sights on establishing a new scientific utopia. However, not everyone shares his vision, even though it is the key to their liberation.
Dr. Stone is an isekai series that values intellect over power. Significant advancements, such as creating painkillers and medicine, are showcased throughout the manga. Like Tensura Slime, it is a must-read for fans of the isekai genre.
10) A Skeleton Who was the Brave
Al the Skeleton and friends. (Image via Saeki Yousuke)
Alvis, the brave hero, meets his demise only to be resurrected as a skeletal being. Opting to retire from his previous life as an adventurer, he finds solace in the simplicity of his existence as a dungeon-bound skeleton. However, when he yearns to reunite with his lost friend Izana, he takes up his sword once more. Renaming himself Al the Skeleton, he embarks on a journey across the world as an undead explorer.
Adding to the ongoing list, A Skeleton Who Was the Brave tells another tale of rebirth as a monster. Unlike other stories where the protagonist faces dire circumstances, this one offers a more relaxed and liberating perspective. Devotees of Tensura Slime may also derive pleasure from this captivating escapade centered around creatures of the supernatural realm.
Editor's P/S
1. In my opinion, the isekai genre has become increasingly popular in recent years, and Tensura Slime is one of the standout series in this genre. What makes Tensura Slime unique is its refreshing take on the isekai trope, where the main character, Rimuru, is reincarnated as a slime, a seemingly weak and insignificant creature. However, through his unique abilities and strategic thinking, Rimuru quickly rises through the ranks to become a powerful and influential figure in the world he now inhabits.
2. The world-building in Tensura Slime is also commendable, with a rich and diverse cast of characters, both human and monster, and a well-crafted magic system that adds depth and complexity to the story. The anime adaptation of Tensura Slime has also been well-received, with its vibrant animation and engaging storytelling. Overall, I believe Tensura Slime is a must-read for fans of the isekai genre and a testament to the creativity and imagination of its author.