Top Anime Recommendations for Solo Leveling Enthusiasts

Solo Leveling has skyrocketed to become one of Korean webtoons and light novel series in recent years, captivating fans with the thrilling story of Sung Jin-Woo, a hunter who begins at the lowest rank and eventually ascends to become an S-Rank Hunter. His extraordinary power leads him on exhilarating adventures through spectacular action sequences and fantastic visuals. Given its engaging plot, it's no surprise that Solo Leveling has amassed a massive global following. For fans eagerly awaiting the anime adaptation, this list offers 10 more anime that capture the same vibe and spirit that makes Solo Leveling so enjoyable, featuring overpowered main characters and engrossing fantasy worlds.

Disclaimer: This article reflects the writer's opinion and is not ranked in any particular order.

Top 10 must-watch anime for solo leveling enthusiasts

1) Goblin Slayer

Goblin Slayer (Image via White Fox)

In a world of fantasy under constant attack by demonic goblin hordes, a mysterious warrior dedicates his life to hunting these cunning monsters in their own territory, employing ruthless ambush tactics. As he saves and guides inexperienced adventurers who underestimate the goblins, the Goblin Slayer becomes entangled in a growing conflict.

Fans of Solo Leveling may recognize the methodical preparation, exploitation of enemy vulnerabilities, and inventive tactics used to traverse monster lairs. The relentless determination of Goblin Slayer to eliminate threats, even at great personal risk, may also remind readers of Sung Jin-Woo's unwavering sense of duty.

2) Overlord

Overlord (Image via Madhouse)

The concept of being stuck in a game world is well-known, but Overlord adds a dark and intriguing twist. When the main character, Momonga, finds himself transformed into his game avatar in a real fantasy world, he sets out to conquer the new land with his loyal guild garrison and growing legion of magical monsters.

Fans of Solo Leveling’s intricate dungeon exploration and politically charged world-building will appreciate Overlord. It also features a wide range of magical action scenes as Momonga bravely faces numerous threats to his newly claimed domain.

3) Is It Wrong To Try To Pick Up Girls In A Dungeon?

Is It Wrong To Try To Pick Up Girls In A Dungeon? (Image via J.C.Staff)

This action-packed anime follows Bell Cranel, a determined young trainee aiming to become an explorer in the treacherous labyrinths below Orario. Despite his lack of strength and experience, Bell's resourcefulness, courage, and divine blessing enable him to rapidly level up with each conquest of the dungeons.

Similar to Sung Jin-Woo, Bell starts off as an underpowered character but quickly gains immense strength through daring expeditions and a fearless attitude. With its immersive RPG elements and intense monster battles, Is It Wrong To Try To Pick Up Girls In A Dungeon? is ideal for fans of Solo Leveling.

4) The Rising Of The Shield Hero

The Rising Of The Shield Hero (Image via Kinema Citrus)

Betrayed, framed as a criminal, and denied any respect, Naofumi Iwatani finds himself strangely armed with only a shield. He is one of four summoned Cardinal Heroes meant to save an alternate world from disaster. Refusing to give up, Naofumi pushes past discrimination and reliance on a non-attacking weapon to eventually gain loyal allies and incredible strength.

Similar to Sung Jin-Woo's defiance of expectations as he rises from the weakest hunter to an unrivaled existence, Naofumi’s patient determination despite hardships makes him a character viewers can't help but root for. The themes of growth in adversity and thrilling battles against imposing beastmen and elite heroes in The Rising of the Shield Hero also echo the appeal of Solo Leveling.

5) That Time I Got Reincarnated As A Slime

That Time I Got Reincarnated As A Slime (Image via Eight Bit)

Similar to Sung Jin-Woo, the main character in That Time I Got Reincarnated As A Slime experiences a sudden surge in newfound abilities. Reborn as a slime monster in a magical alternate world, he rapidly develops new skills and strengths while on a mission to establish a nation of monsters.

With engaging characters, imaginative world-building, and dynamic action sequences, the anime That Time I Got Reincarnated As A Slime captivates viewers from the start. As the story unfolds, it also delivers emotionally impactful moments as the narrative expands. For those who enjoy witnessing an underdog protagonist transform into an unstoppable force, the slime's journey to greatness will draw them into its storyline.

6) Kill la Kill

Kill la Kill (Image via Trigger)

Instead of relying on RPG mechanics, Kill la Kill, a thrilling action anime, utilizes an innovative "Life Fiber" concept, allowing characters to unleash immense power through determination and compatible outfit pieces. Protagonist Ryuko Matoi seeks vengeance for her father's murder and gains extraordinary battle prowess by acquiring a sentient god robe.

As she enrolls at Honnōji Academy, Ryuko fights her way to the top of the student council hierarchy to confront the president, Satsuki Kiryuin. Fans of Solo Leveling will recognize the stylish energy beams and screen-filling special moves. Throughout her battles, Ryuko also develops challenging new techniques and experiences significant stat increases in moments of desperation.

7) Sword Art Online

Sword Art Online (Image via A-1 Pictures)

Solo Leveling’s premise of delving into dungeon floors and facing boss rooms finds a strong parallel in Sword Art Online. When protagonist Kirito becomes trapped in the VRMMORPG, he must join forces with thousands of other players to survive, clear 100 floors, and ultimately escape.

Teaming up with elite adventurers, Kirito hones his abilities through intense battles while uncovering various plots. With its dynamic camera work, stunning magic effects, and thrilling boss battles, Sword Art Online captures the essence of high fantasy raiding. Fans of Solo Leveling will recognize Kirito’s strategic maneuvers against boss attacks.

8) Re:ZERO -Starting Life in Another World

Re:ZERO -Starting Life in Another World (Image via White Fox)

After unexpectedly being called to a fantasy kingdom, Subaru Natsuki believes he's stumbled upon an extraordinary adventure. However, he quickly discovers that dying in this realm comes with unforeseen results as he begins to awaken at a previous point in time after each death. With the unique "Return by Death" ability, Subaru works tirelessly to uncover the mysteries behind this phenomenon while also struggling to protect someone dear to him.

Fans of Solo Leveling, who relish in the thrill of overcoming perilous situations through careful planning and determination, will likely find Subaru's relentless efforts to evade death enthralling. Additionally, the story includes political machinations and a captivating magic system that is sure to captivate any fantasy enthusiast.

9) Mushoku Tensei: Jobless Reincarnation

Mushoku Tensei: Jobless Reincarnation (Image via Studio Bind)

Experiencing a remarkable second chance at life, a 34-year-old NEET is reborn as Rudeus Greyrat, the infant son of a powerful adventurer. With his old memories and intelligence intact, Rudeus uses his natural magical abilities and newfound bravery to develop incredible skills, striving for redemption through heroic deeds.

Unleashing awe-inspiring magical powers and pushing the boundaries of combat to defend others will strongly resonate with Sung Jin-Woo's transformative story. For fans of Solo Leveling, Rudeus' maturation throughout the story will deliver impactful emotional moments akin to a powerful coming-of-age narrative.

10) Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba

Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba (Image via Ufotable)

Tanjiro from Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba undergoes intense training to battle flesh-eating demons after his family falls victim to an attack. Similarly, Sung Jin-Woo from Solo Leveling relentlessly pushes himself to go beyond human limits through relentless combat in order to protect the vulnerable. Their shared selfless dedication in the midst of bloodshed and their development of special techniques in the face of adversity create inspiring parallels.

Following the slaughter of his family and the transformation of his sister into a demon, Tanjiro joins the Demon Slaying Corps in search of a cure and confronts hordes of demonic adversaries. Despite lacking any extraordinary abilities, he sharpens his extraordinary sensory skills and masters unique breath-style attacks. He also unlocks the ability to move with enhanced speed, strength, and reaction time in crucial moments.

Conclusion

Fans of Solo Leveling who are in search of uncompromising monster hunting, epic raids that pose ultimate challenges, and a secondary world that fuels heroic growth will find these anime completely engrossing. Their epic journeys filled with the discovery of new skills, escalating battles, and high personal stakes all resonate with the essential elements that contribute to the exhilarating magic of Solo Leveling’s success.

Editor's P/S

As a passionate fan of Solo Leveling, I am thrilled to see this article recommending 10 must-watch anime series that capture the same vibe and spirit. I have personally watched some of these anime, such as Goblin Slayer and Overlord, and can attest to their captivating storylines and immersive worlds. The intense battles, overpowered main characters, and engrossing fantasy settings are sure to resonate with Solo Leveling enthusiasts.

I am particularly excited about the prospect of an anime adaptation of Solo Leveling itself. The webtoon and light novel series have captivated me with their unique blend of action, adventure, and character development. Sung Jin-Woo's journey from a weak hunter to an unrivaled existence is truly inspiring, and I can't wait to see it brought to life in animated form. I believe that the anime adaptation has the potential to become a global phenomenon, further expanding the reach and popularity of Solo Leveling.