Anime Like How Not To Summon A Demon Lord
Okay, let's be real. We've all seen How Not to Summon a Demon Lord. It's got a powerful protagonist, a harem, and plenty of fan service. But what else is out there for those of us who enjoy a good isekai with a side of ridiculousness?
The "Overpowered MC" Club
First, let's talk about shows where the main character is basically a god. I mean, Diablo is strong, but he's not alone. There's a whole league of anime characters who could probably bench press a planet.
Overlord: A Skeleton Walks Into a Bar...
Overlord is a classic. Ainz Ooal Gown, a.k.a. Momonga, gets stuck in a game as his skeletal avatar. He's basically the CEO of the underworld now. Whoops!
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Unpopular opinion: I kind of like Ainz better than Diablo. He’s just so wonderfully awkward for someone running a death cult.
That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime: The Ultimate Power Wash
Rimuru Tempest starts as a slime. A SLIME! But he quickly absorbs everything and becomes ridiculously powerful. It's like the ultimate glow-up story, except with more magic and less makeup.
Seriously, watch out for Rimuru. You might end up being absorbed. Just a friendly warning.
Harem Highjinks and Fantasy Fun
Let's be honest, the harem element is part of the appeal, right? There's something undeniably entertaining about watching a socially awkward protagonist fumble his way through relationships with a group of adoring women (or demons).
Problem Children Are Coming From Another World, Aren't They?: Gifted, Talented, and Ready to Fight
This one’s a bit of a hidden gem. Three superpowered kids get summoned to another world to fight in "Gift Games." It's got action, comedy, and a surprising amount of heart. Also, a talking cat-eared girl. What's not to love?
Arifureta: From Commonplace to World's Strongest: From Zero to Hero (and Maybe a Little Edgy)
Hajime Nagumo starts as the weakest guy in his class. Then he falls into a pit full of monsters and has to become a badass to survive. He gets a cool gun and a harem of monster girls. Classic.
Unpopular opinion #2: Arifureta gets way too much hate. Sure, the CGI is sometimes questionable, but the story is genuinely fun.
When Fan Service is the Main Course
Okay, let's address the elephant in the room. Some of us watch these shows for the ahem plot. No shame in that game! (Just maybe don't watch them with your grandma.)
Testament of Sister New Devil: Siblings...With Benefits?
Basara Toujou finds out he has two step-sisters who are succubi. Cue lots of awkward situations and strategically placed steam. This one knows what it is and leans HARD into it.
High School DxD: Dragons, Devils, and...Boobs?
Issei Hyoudou dies on his first date. Then he gets resurrected as a devil. And joins a club full of beautiful girls with…assets. Yeah, you get the picture.
It's not exactly Shakespeare, but it's definitely entertaining.
So, What's the Verdict?
There are tons of anime out there that scratch the same itch as How Not to Summon a Demon Lord. Whether you're in it for the overpowered protagonists, the harem antics, or the fan service, there's something for everyone.
Now, if you'll excuse me, I have some anime to watch.
